bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association of trabecular bone score corrected for tissue thickness with glucose metabolism in acromegaly
Authors: Kužma Martin , Vaňuga Peter , Pávai Dušan , Killinger Zdenko , Hans Didier , Binkley Neil , Payer Juraj , Jackuliak Peter 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionAcromegaly is associated with increased vertebral fracture (VF) risk regardless of bone mineral density (BMD). However, the vertebral trabecular compartment is still low; a possible contributor to this may be impaired glucose metabolism (GM) which frequently complicates acromegaly. Additionally, soft tissue thickness may confound bone imaging in acromegaly patients.ObjectiveThis study aims to assess the association of GM with BMD, trabecular bone score adjusted for BMI (TBSBMI), and trabecular bone score adjusted for tissue thickness (TBSTT) among acromegaly subjects.Patients and methodsA cross-sectional study was performed among 70 consecutive acromegaly patients (24 male/46 female, aged 55.1 years) divided in two subgroups: abnormal GM (n = 35) and normal GM (n = 35). Using DXA, BMD, TBSBMI, TBSTT, and VF screening were performed.ResultsIn all subjects, TBSTT was higher (mean 9.5%) than TBSBMI. Abnormal GM subjects had lower TBSBMI (1.166 ± 0.15) than normal GM subjects (1.232 ± 0.12; p &lt; 0.05). No between-group difference in TBSTT or BMD was observed. In a multiple regression model, the best predictor of TBSTT was HbA1c (p = 0.002). None of the DXA measures or GM parameters was a significant predictor of VF (n = 7).ConclusionThe abnormal GM acromegaly subjects had lower TBSBMI than those with normal GM. TBSTT was higher than TBSBMI, and no between-group difference based on GM status was observed. TBSTT was significantly associated with GM parameters, notably HbA1c. The relationship of TBSTT with GM parameters may imply an effect of GM on trabecular bone microstructure in patients with acromegaly; a further study is indicated.
Spatiotemporal distribution and reproductive biology of the brown croaker (Miichthys miiuy) in the southwestern waters of Korea
Authors: Moon Seong Yong , Baeck Gun Wook , Jung Jin Ho , Choi Haeyoung , Kim Changsin , Koo Myung Sung , Park Jeong-Ho 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundThe brown croaker, Miichthys miiuy, is an economically important fish species in Korean waters. Research on the spawning ecology of M. miiuy in Korea has primarily focused on specimens from the southwestern waters, assessing parameters, such as spawning season and mature body length through histological examination. However, a comprehensive histological analysis across various body sizes during the spawning season is imperative to accurately ascertain these factors, as well as for efficient resource management amidst potential environmental variations. Therefore, this study was undertaken to investigate the spatiotemporal distribution and reproductive biology of M. miiuy in the southwestern waters of Korea.MethodsMonthly changes in gonadal maturity stages, gonadosomatic index (GSI), egg diameter, and fecundity were analyzed. Additionally, total length at sexual maturity at 50%, 75%, and 97.5%, as well as the sex ratio, were determined.ResultsM. miiuy, captured using offshore gillnets and stow nets, exhibited a seasonal migration pattern: a winter presence near Jeju Island, followed by a northward movement in spring, a summer shift to the shallow waters of Shinan, and an autumnal migration to the waters around Jeju Island for overwintering. The overall female-to-male sex ratio was 1:0.8. GSI values peaked in September and August for both sexes; however, microscopic analysis of gonadal tissue revealed a spawning period from July to September 2023, with the primary spawning season for the entire population occurring in August and September. The fork length at 50% maturity was 57.4 cm for females and 54.6 cm for males.ConclusionOverall, these results suggest an earlier shift in the spawning period of brown croakers in the southwestern waters of Korea compared to past observations. This shift is potentially attributable to higher water temperatures, increased resource levels, and alterations in the species composition of major prey items in the spawning grounds. Further research is imperative for a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing the reproductive ecology of this important fish species.
Effects of osthole and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens on the physiological growth of Panax quinquefolius in a forest
Authors: Jiang Jinhui , Fan Guangxiong , Wen Rong , Liu Tao , He Shuran , Yang Shengchao , Zi Shuhui 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionThe biological activities of osthole have been widely reported in recent years. However, few studies have been conducted on osthole in agriculture, and its effects on plant growth have little been reported.MethodsThree experimental treatments were set up in this experiment: blank control (CK), osthole (CLS), and B. amyloliquefaciens (LKWS). In this study, the effects of osthole and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens on the growth parameters, photosynthesis, antioxidant enzyme activities, disease incidence, and microbiome of forested P. quinquefolius were tested.ResultsThis study demonstrates that the use of osthole and B. amyloliquefaciens significantly improved the growth of Panax quinquefolius in a forest compared to that in the control treatment, increased the total chlorophyll and carotenoid content of P. quinquefolius, significantly increased its net photosynthetic rate, and decreased the stomatal conductance and intercellular CO2 levels. In addition, the use of osthole and B. amyloliquefaciens significantly improved ascorbate peroxidase and peroxidase (POD) activities, enhanced antioxidant activities of the P. quinquefolius POD, and reduced the disease incidence and index of American ginseng anthracnose. Based on the American ginseng microbiome analysis, the use of osthole and B. amyloliquefaciens could change the structure of the American ginseng microbial community, significantly increase the diversity of American ginseng bacteria, significantly decrease the diversity of American ginseng fungi, stimulate the recruitment of more growth-promoting microorganisms to American ginseng, and build a more stable microbial network in American ginseng.DiscussionIn conclusion, we found that the application of osthole had a positive effect on the growth of American ginseng, providing a theoretical basis for its subsequent application in agriculture.
Association between plasma trans fatty acid levels and rheumatoid arthritis: a cross-sectional study using NHANES 1999–2000 and 2009–2010 data in US adults
Authors: Li Tanjian , Jiang Na , Liang Xin , Li Xinya , Li Yaqin , Huang Yuting , Wang Yu 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveWhile earlier research has indicated that trans fatty acids (TFAs) are detrimental to cardiovascular health as well as other conditions, the purpose of this study is to look into any possible connections between trans fatty acids and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).MethodsThe NHANES database provided the data for this study, covering two periods: 1999–2000 and 2009–2010. The correlation between plasma TFAs (linolelaidic acid, vaccenic acid, palmitelaidic acid, and elaidic acid) and RA was examined using weighted univariate and multivariate regression analyses as well as analysis of subgroups. Additionally, this study used restricted cubic spline curves to investigate the non-linear relationship between them.ResultsThis study included 2,938 patients, of whom 222 (7.56%) had RA. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that levels of linolelaidic acid were linked to a higher risk of RA (odds ratio = 1.39, 95% confidence interval = 1.05–1.85, p = 0.025) after accounting for all other variables. No significant effect on this association was found in interaction tests. A linear association between linolelaidic acid and RA was demonstrated in the limited cubic spline regression model. For RA, linolelaidic acid exhibited a critical value of 0.98.ConclusionFindings suggesting a possible link between elevated plasma TFA levels and an increased risk of RA offer fresh perspectives on RA prevention through dietary interventions.
Human milk microbiota and oligosaccharides in colostrum and mature milk: comparison and correlation
Authors: Ge Hongda , Zhu Wenxiu , Zhang Jing , Wang Zijing , Shi Huijing , Sun Jie , Shi Ming 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundThe interaction between the human breast milk microbiota and human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) plays a crucial role in the healthy growth and development of infants. We aimed to clarify the link between the breast milk microbiota and HMOs at two stages of lactation.MethodsThe microbiota and HMOs of 20 colostrum samples (C group, 1–5 days postpartum) and 20 mature milk samples (S group, 42 days postpartum) collected from postpartum mothers were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing and high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry.ResultThe total average HMO content was significantly higher in the C group than in the S group (6.76 ± 1.40 g/L vs. 10.27 ± 2.00 g/L, p &lt; 0.05). Among the HMOs, the average values of 2′-fucosyllactose (2′-FL, 1.64 ± 1.54 g/L vs. 3.03 ± 1.79 g/L), 3′-sialyllactose (3′-SL, 0.10 ± 0.02 g/L vs. 0.21 ± 0.06), 6′-SL (0.22 ± 0.09 g/L vs. 0.33 ± 0.11 g/L), and lacto-N-triaose 2 (LNT2, 0.03 ± 0.01 g/L vs. 0.16 ± 0.08 g/L) were significantly lower in the S group than in the C group (p &lt; 0.05), while that of 3′-FL was significantly higher in the S group than in the C group (1.35 ± 1.00 g/L vs. 0.41 ± 0.43 g/L, p &lt; 0.05). The diversity and structure of the microbiota in the S and C groups were also significantly different (p &lt; 0.05). Comparative analysis of the microbial communities revealed that Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were the most abundant phyla, in both groups, with the keystone species (Serratia, Streptococcus and Staphylococcus) of breast milk closely interacting with HMOs, including 3′-SL, 6′-SL, and LNT2. In PICRUSt2 functional prediction analysis, the S group exhibited significant reduction in the expression of genes involved in several infectious disease pathways.DiscussionOur findings support the recognition of human milk as a synbiotic comprising beneficial bacteria and prebiotic HMOs.
Worldview, psychological flexibility, and depression-anxiety-stress in Chinese youth
Authors: Cheng Sheng-Li , Zhang Xin , Zhao Chenxu , Li Yun , Liu Shushan , Cheng Sanyin 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundThe psychological problems among the youth population have received widespread attention in the information age. However, little research has been conducted on the effects and mechanisms of worldview on depression, anxiety, and stress (DAS) among youth. In this study, we aim to investigate the relationship between worldview and DAS among youth.AimsThe aim of this study is to investigate the current state of worldview, psychological flexibility, and DAS in Chinese youth groups, and to explore the relationship between youth worldview, psychological flexibility, and DAS.MethodsA total of 2,351 Chinese youths completed questionnaires measuring their worldview, psychological flexibility, and DAS levels. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM).ResultsThe impact of youth worldview on DAS was sophisticated. Positive worldview had a negative direct predictive effect on DAS, as well as a negative indirect predictive effect mediated by psychological flexibility. Traditional worldview had a positive direct predictive effect on DAS, a negative indirect predictive effect mediated by psychological flexibility, and a positive total predictive effect. Spontaneous worldview only had positive indirect predictive effects on DAS. Pessimistic worldview had positive direct effects on DAS and indirect effects mediated by psychological flexibility. Policymakers, psychologists, and educators working with youth should carefully consider the implications of these results for education, employment, and mental health.
Impact of climate change on women mental health in rural hinterland of Pakistan
Authors: Daraz Umar , Khan Younas , Alsawalqa Rula Odeh , Alrawashdeh Maissa N. , Alnajdawi Ann Mousa 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundClimate change significantly impacts global well-being, with rural and agricultural communities, particularly women, bearing a disproportionate burden. In Pakistan’s Malakand Division, women face increased mental health challenges due to environmental stressors such as temperature rise, extreme weather, and environmental degradation. These stressors are expected to exacerbate issues like stress, anxiety, and depression. Understanding their effects on rural women’s mental health is crucial for developing effective intervention strategies.MethodologyThis study employs quantitative methodologies to assess the impact of climate change on the mental health of rural women in Malakand Division, focusing on Dir Upper, Dir Lower, and Shangla districts. A cross-sectional design was used, with a sample size of 600 women selected through multistage cluster sampling for geographic representation. Data were collected using structured questionnaires addressing stress, anxiety, and community dynamics. Data were analyzed using multiple regression, structural equation modeling (SEM), ANOVA, and logistic regression.ResultsThe results revealed that climate change factors—temperature increase (β = 0.42, p &lt; 0.01), extreme weather events (β = 0.36, p &lt; 0.01), precipitation changes (β = 0.31, p &lt; 0.05), and environmental degradation (β = 0.28, p &lt; 0.05)—significantly impacted rural women’s mental health. High levels of stress (72%), anxiety (68%), and depression (56%) were reported. Social support (β = -0.45, p &lt; 0.01), community cohesion (β = -0.37, p &lt; 0.05), access to resources (β = -0.39, p &lt; 0.01), and cultural norms (β = -0.33, p &lt; 0.05) were key factors mitigating the effects of climate stress. Gender disparities were evident, with women showing higher mental health challenges compared to men in similar conditions.ConclusionThe study concludes that climate change significantly exacerbates mental health issues for rural women. It highlights the need for gender-sensitive, community-based interventions that address both climate adaptation and mental health. Strengthening community resilience, improving access to resources, and investing in healthcare and education are vital for enhancing well-being in the face of climate change.
Psychometric evaluation and community norms of the PHQ-9, based on a representative German sample
Authors: Kliem Sören , Sachser Cedric , Lohmann Anna , Baier Dirk , Brähler Elmar , Gündel Harald , Fegert Jörg M. 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundThe Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) is a popular tool for assessing depressive symptoms in both general and clinical populations. The present study used a large representative sample of the German adult population to confirm desired psychometric functioning and to provide updated population norms.MethodsThe following psychometric properties were assessed: (i) Item characteristics (item means, standard deviations and inter-item correlations), (ii) Construct validity (correlations of the PHQ-9 sum-score with scores obtained from instruments assessing depression, anxiety and somatization (GAD-7, BSI-18), (iii) Internal consistency (coefficient omega), (iv) Factorial validity (via confirmatory factor analysis of the assumed one factorial model) as well as (v) Measurement invariance (via multi-group confirmatory factor analyses across gender, age, income and education).ResultsThe study found that the PHQ-9 had sound psychometric properties in terms of internal consistency and construct validity, and that measurements obtained with the tool could be compared across gender and age.LimitationsDespite using a representative sample, the response rate was only 42.6%. Furthermore, diagnostic efficiency cannot be assessed as there were no clinical interviews conducted. Conclusion: The updated population based norms, which are presented for the total sample as well as separated by gender and various age-groups, provide a useful reference for clinical practice and epidemiological research.
Dynamic Bayesian network modeling for longitudinal data on child undernutrition in Ethiopia (2002–2016)
Authors: Begashaw Getnet Bogale , Zewotir Temesgen , Fenta Haile Mekonnen 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionDynamic Bayesian networks improve the modeling of complex systems by incorporating continuous probabilistic relationships between covariates that change over time. This study aimed to analyze the complex causal links contributing to child undernutrition using dynamic Bayesian network modeling, examining both the best- and worst-case scenarios. The Young Cohort of the Ethiopian Young Lives dataset from 2002–2016 was used to analyze the complex relationships among various covariates influencing child undernutrition. We used a built-in Bayes server tool to identify potential features, followed by building the structure of the directed acyclic graph using a structural learning algorithm. The maximum posterior is determined using the relevance tree algorithm. The node with the highest values of mutual information and target entropy reduction, along with the lowest value of target entropy, was considered to have the strongest predictive power in the dataset.ResultsThis study revealed that long-term participation in programs increased the likelihood of children being in a normal nutritional state. Key factors influencing the nutritional status of children under two years of age include the mother’s education level, her subjective well-being, and the household’s wealth quintile. Children with educated parents were more likely to have a healthy nutritional status. Additionally, the causal pathway of intervention programs → wealth quintile → child nutritional status consistently exceeded 90% in Waves 3, 4, and 5, indicating a strong relationship. Similarly, the relationship between intervention programs → food security → child nutritional status was nearly perfect at 99.99% in Waves 4 and 5, indicating a strong association. Finally, the study revealed that household participation in intervention programs significantly reduces undernutrition in best-case scenarios, while the absence of support poses a higher risk in worst-case conditions.ConclusionThe comprehensive intervention program strongly improved household wealth, food security, and maternal well-being, which in turn affected children’s nutritional status.
Secular trends in motor abilities of Xinjiang children and adolescents aged 7–18 years from 1985 to 2019
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Li Chengyue , Tarken Almujiang-Yimitri , Li Weiming 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveTo assessment the secular trend in physical fitness of children and adolescents aged 7–18 years in Xinjiang from 1985 to 2019.MethodThe data are derived from test scores of Xinjiang Chinese children and adolescents aged 7–18 years by the China National Student Health Monitoring Centre National Student Physical Fitness Monitoring in 1985, 1991, 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2014, and 2019. The physical fitness indicators included speed, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, power, and flexibility.ResultsThe overall physical fitness of Xinjiang children and adolescents aged 7–18 in Xinjiang demonstrated downward trend from 1985 to 2019. During the period from 1985 to 1995, the speed, power, and cardiorespiratory fitness improved significantly but worsened from 1995 to 2005. The pace of decline in physical fitness slowed down from 2005 to 2014. Some components of physical fitness improved, but most components of physical fitness continued to worsen from 2014 to 2019.ConclusionIn conclusion, the overall physical fitness of Xinjiang children and adolescents aged 7–18 years worsened from 1985 to 2019, and some relatively positive trends have been found in recent years. Trends in physical fitness vary among children and adolescents by gender and age, and these differences should be emphasized in the development of relevant physical fitness policies as well as interventions.
Effects of a flexibly delivered group-based acceptance and commitment therapy on reducing stress and enhancing psychological wellbeing in parents of school-age children during the COVID-19 pandemic: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Mak Yim-Wah , Leung Doris Y. P. , Zhang Xuelin , Chung Joyce O. K. , Chow Petsy S. Y. , Ruan Jiayin , Yeung Jerry W. F. 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionCOVID-19 has increased parental stress and significantly impacted the psychological well-being of individuals, especially parents of school-age children. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy posits that individuals can accept their unchangeable inner experiences (thoughts and feelings) while acting in ways aligned with their personal values, demonstrating effectiveness in reducing stress and improving psychological well-being, especially among parents of children with chronic illness. This study aimed to test the effectiveness of a group-based ACT, delivered flexibly, in improving stress and psychological well-being in parents with school-age children, regardless of their children’s chronic conditions, within a real-world context.MethodsThis quasi-experimental study recruited parents with school-age children, through convenience sampling from the Christian Family Service Centre in Hong Kong. The group-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy intervention consisted of five weekly sessions delivered via face-to-face meetings and online videoconferencing, consistent with participants’ preferences and COVID-19 related restrictions in Hong Kong. Paired t-tests and Generalized Estimating Equations following the intention-to-treat principle were used to examine the overall effects and the moderating effects of delivery methods.ResultsThe study included 250 parents, with an average age of 40.90 years, mostly women. The average age of their youngest child was 7.68 years. In line with COVID-19-related restrictions and participants’ preferences, 109 parents participated in online sessions, while 141 attended face-to-face sessions. Results showed significant small-to-medium improvements in various outcome variables after the intervention, including parental stress (Cohen’s d = 0.26), general stress (d = 0.18), depressive symptoms (d = 0.18), mental health literacy (d = 0.43), subjective wellbeing (d = 0.25), and psychological flexibility (d = 0.28). Notably, the online videoconferencing format was found to be as effective as the face-to-face format, with similar session attendance rates.ConclusionThe findings highlight the potential of group-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to alleviate stress and improve psychological well-being in parents of school-age children, regardless of the delivery method, especially during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. However, due to limitations in the study design, caution is warranted when interpreting the overall effects of group-based ACT on parent outcomes and the moderating role of delivery methods. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore the nuances of delivery methods in similar real-world situations.