bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Correlation of CCL3 with Ferroptosis in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: An Insight into Prognostic Significance
Authors: Chen He , Xu Peng , Mao Leijing , Wang Yicong , Feng Zian , Wang Zhongxin , Fan Zongqing , Shen Cailiang , Xu Yuanhong 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a prevalent and debilitating condition associated with low back pain (LBP). Despite its significant impact, effective diagnostic markers for early-stage IVDD remain elusive. Recent research has implicated ferroptosis, a newly recognized form of programmed cell death, in the pathogenesis of IVDD, particularly involving disturbances in iron homeostasis. Additionally, the CC Chemokine Ligand 3 (CCL3) has been linked to macrophage migration and the progression of IVDD, yet its precise diagnostic and prognostic utility remains uncertain.
Objective
This study aims to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of ferroptosis and the involvement of CCL3 in IVDD, with the objective of establishing their diagnostic and prognostic significance. By uncovering these mechanisms, novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the diagnosis and prognosis of IVDD may be identified.
Methods
Single-cell sequencing data were acquired from the TCGA database, and a range of bioinformatics methods were employed for comprehensive analysis. Furthermore, validation experiments were conducted using in vitro techniques, including the analysis of human tissue samples, co-culture assays with neutralizing antibodies, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and Western blotting.
Results
Our findings suggest that CCL3 holds promise as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for IVDD. Validation experiments demonstrated that CCL3 functions via the pAMPK/AMPK pathway, thereby modulating apoptosis and impacting the progression of IVDD.
Conclusion
Our study underscores the diagnostic and prognostic potential of CCL3 in patients with IVDD. Further investigations are warranted to explore therapeutic strategies targeting CCL3, ultimately enhancing the management of IVDD.
Differential effect of nano vs. micro-sized plastics on live Chlorella sp. algae in water environment.
Authors: Chorvatova Alzbeta Marcek , Mateasik Anton , Chorvat Dusan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Environmental pollution by micro and nanoplastics (MPs) is becoming an imminent danger for the environment in the 21st century. However, the effect of the MPs of different sizes is still poorly understood. In this contribution, we compare the effect of fluorescently labelled polystyrene (PS) MPs of sizes between 20 nm and 2000 nm. Spectrally-resolved confocal microscopy and fluorescence lifetime imaging was employed to study the interaction of PS MPs with algae Chlorella sp. We observed differential effect between the smaller and the bigger-sized beads. MPs sized 20–500 nm created “corona-like” structures around algae and induced lowering of the chlorophyll fluorescence, indicating an effect on the cell photosynthesis. In addition, the 20 nm MPs induced shortening of the chlorophyll fluorescence lifetimes, pointing to the effect on the chlorophyll molecular environment. However, MPs of bigger sizes, 1000–2000 nm, rather acted as a “nucleus” for clustering of a number of neighbouring algae without affecting the chlorophyll fluorescence. Understanding the interaction of living organisms with MPs of different sizes is crucial to assess the impact of this environmental pollution on live organisms in their natural environment.
Exosome-derived miR-21-5p promotes pancreatic cancer progression via ABCD2 gene
Authors: Zhou Ming , Wang Zhixin , Zheng Li , Wang Hongli , Lin Hao , Zheng Shengbin , Lu Shiyun 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive malignancy with a dismal prognosis, and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain only partially understood. This study aimed to clarify the role of microRNA-21-5p (miR-21-5p) in pancreatic cancer progression and to investigate the associated mechanisms. We found that miR-21-5p was significantly elevated in pancreatic cancer tissues, and its high expression correlated with poorer patients’ prognosis. Functional assays revealed that miR-21-5p enhanced the proliferation, migration, and invasive capabilities of pancreatic cancer cells. Through bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation, we discovered ATP-binding cassette transporter D2 (ABCD2) as a novel direct target gene of miR-21-5p. ABCD2 expression was significantly downregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues, and its low expression was associated with reduced patient survival. Mechanistically, miR-21-5p inhibited ABCD2 transcription and translation by directly targeting its 3'UTR, a process facilitated by exosome delivery. Importantly, overexpression of ABCD2 effectively reversed the pro-oncogenic effects of miR-21-5p. Our findings establish the critical role of the miR-21-5p/ABCD2 axis in pancreatic cancer progression and highlight the tumor-suppressive function of ABCD2. ABCD2 may represent a promising therapeutic target and a potential site for the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Nighttime Fluorescence Phenotyping Reduces Environmental Variability for Photosynthetic Traits and Enables the Identification of Candidate Loci in Maize
Authors: Li Fangyi , Grzybowski Marcin , Roston Rebecca , Schnable James 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

High-throughput phenotyping is crucial for unraveling the genetic basis of variation in photosynthetic activity. However, the heritability of chlorophyll fluorescence parameters measured during the day is often low as a result of high levels of variation introduced by environmental fluctuations. To address these limitations, we measured fluorescence phenotypes at night, leveraging natural dark adaptation to minimize environmental noise. This significantly increased the heritability of fluorescence traits compared to daytime measurements, with the maximum quantum yield of photosystem II (Fv/Fm) showing an increase in heritability from 0.32 to 0.72. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) conducted using three photosynthetic fluorescence traits measured at night across two growing seasons identified several significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Notably, two candidate genes near SNPs linked to multiple fluorescence traits, Zm00001eb271820 and Zm00001eb012130, have known roles in photosynthesis regulation. Four of the significant signal nucleotide polymorphisms identified in GWAS conducted using nighttime collected data also exhibited statistically significant associations with the same phenotypes during the day. In a majority of other cases, direction of effect was consistent but greater variance in day measured data relative to night measured data resulted in the differences not being statistically significant. These results highlight the effectiveness of phenotyping photosynthetic traits at night in reducing environmental noise and enhancing the discovery of genomic intervals related to photosynthesis. While nighttime data collection may not be applicable for all photosynthetic traits, it offers a promising avenue for advancing our understanding of the genetic variation of photosynthesis in modern crop species.
Combined pan-immune-inflammation value and signet ring cell carcinoma predict pathological complete response and prognosis to neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy in locally advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Ding Jianing , Sun Xiong , Li Chengguo , Shen Qian , Li Tianhao , Tao Kaixiong , Yin Yuping 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective
To evaluate the predictive value of pan-immune-inflammatory value (PIV) and signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) in pathological complete response (pCR) and prognosis in patients with locally advanced gastric cancer (LAGC) receiving neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy(NCIT).
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed the clinicopathologic data of LAGC patients who received NCIT in the Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology from July 2020 to October 2023. The cut-off value of PIV was determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic analysis were used to determine the correlation between clinicopathologic characteristics and pCR. Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis, and log-rank test was used to compare the survival rate between groups. We performed univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses to verify the independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS).
Results
A total of 110 patients with LAGC were included in this study, including 86 males (78.2%) and 24 females (21.8%), with a median age of 59 years (31–74 years). SRCC and PIV were independent predictors of pCR. The Cox regression analyses showed that neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, SRCC (HR = 3.699, 95%CI:1.072–12.770) and SRCC - PIV score (HR = 10.630, 95%CI:1.283–88.098) were independent prognostic factors in patients with LAGC. The SRCC - PIV score was better than PIV, NLR, and SRCC in assessing the survival outcome in patients with LAGC.
Conclusions
The combination SRCC and PIV is a significant indicator for predicting therapeutic response of LAGC after NCIT, which can help to identify high-risk groups and predict prognosis.
Correlation and Consistency Analysis between Various Indirect Portal Pressure Gradients and Actual Portal Pressure Gradient
Authors: Chen Rufeng , Liu Yaozu , Ma Li , Zhang Wen , Yu Jiaze , Yang Minjie , Luo Jianjun , Ma Jingqin , Zhou Yongjie , Yan Zhiping 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the correlation and consistency between hepatic venous pressure gradient(F-HVPG) calculated as the wedged hepatic venous pressure (WHVP) minus free hepatic venous pressure (FHVP), I-HVPG calculated as WHVP minus inferior vena cava pressure (IVCP) in the hepatic segment, and portal pressure gradient (PPG).
Methods: Data were collected from 112 patients with portal hypertension undergoing transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) along with HVPG measurement. FHVP, IVCP, WHVP, and portal venous pressure (PVP) were collected intraoperatively. Pearson’s correlation and Bland–Altman method were used to assess correlation and consistency.
Results:A total of 112 patients were retrospectively collected. The correlation coefficient (r) velues (p < 0.001) between FHVP and IVCP, F-HVPG and I-HVPG, F-HVPG and PPG, I-HVPG and PPG were 0.835, 0.946, 0.667 and 0.698, respectively; the determination coefficient (R2) values were 0.697, 0.895, 0.445 and 0.487, respectively. Bland–Altman plots showed that F-HVPG and I-HVPG had the narrowest 95% limits of agreement. Among patients with FHVP-IVCP > 2 mmHg, the (r) vlues (p < 0.05) between F-HVPG and I-HVPG, F-HVPG and PPG,I-HVPG and PPG were 0.907, 0.648 and 0.807, respectively; the (R2) values were 0.822, 0.420 and 0.651, respectively. Bland–Altman plots showed that I-HVPG had the narrower 95% limits of agreement with PPG.
Conclusion: F-HVPG and I-HVPG demonstrated high correlation and consistency. When the difference between FHVP and IVCP is greater than 2 mmHg, IVCP should be used to calculate HVPG instead of FHVP.
Going beyond quantification: Applying a multidimensional qualitative analysis approach to support decision making for sustainable biorefinery deployment – a case study
Authors: Knoebl Melanie , Fazeni-Fraisl Karin , Lindorfer Johannes , Puschnigg Stefan , Friedl Christina , Mueller Christoph 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The rollout of bio-based technologies is key to achieving sustainability goals in the bioeconomy and renewable energy sectors. Evaluating the contribution of the biorefinery value chain to sustainability goals requires the evaluation of environmental, economic, and social aspects. Most current studies use quantitative metrics focused on environmental and economic assessments, which can lead to information loss. This study adds to the current literature by presenting a comprehensive qualitative sustainability analysis for decision support, exemplified by an industrial cellulosic ethanol biorefinery value chain established in rural Romania. The study involved stakeholder, qualitative indicator (PESTEL), and SWOT analyses to derive recommendations for further biorefinery deployment and decision support. These three methods were merged with the socio- and multi-criteria model for reducing barrier analysis, a multidimensional approach that demonstrates a comprehensible way to process and interpret qualitative information. The insights gained facilitate informed decision-making, resource allocation, and policy formulation for successful biorefinery deployment. Understanding the multifaceted implications of the cellulosic ethanol biorefinery value chain facilitates the pursuit of a socially, environmentally responsible, and economically viable pathway. This paper concludes with recommendations for the maintenance and further development of lignocellulosic biorefineries in rural Romania.
Association of Body-Roundness Index and Diabetes with New-Onset Cardiovascular Disease among Middle-age and Older Adults: Evidence from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study
Authors: Kong Youli , Luo Qian , Zhang Qing , Wei Quan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity among non-communicable diseases. In China, diabetes is renowned for its high incidence rate, and the dody roundness index (BRI) is an emerging indicator for assessing obesity, particularly abdominal obesity. Diabetes and a high BRI may lead to new-onset CVD events, yet the relationship between diabetes, BRI, and the occurrence of new CVD incidents remains unclear.
Methods
Data for this analysis were extracted from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Our research utilized a cohort that was meticulously assessed over a period from 2011 to 2018, encompassing a comprehensive follow-up of 17,708 participants. Ultimately, this study focused on a subset of 6,737 individuals who were aged 45 years or older. Methodological approaches included logistic regression, Cox regression, and mediation analysis to explore the relationships of interest. All statistical computations were meticulously executed utilizing the R programming language (version 4.2.1).
Results
Ultimately, this study encompassed 6,737 participants, all of whom were above the age of 45. Our findings revealed that within this demographic, 303 individuals (comprising 4.50%) were diabetic, while 1,481 (21.98%) experienced new-onset cardiovascular disease (CVD).The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis further delineated that the group characterized by no diabetes and low BRI (NDM.LBRI) demonstrated the lowest cumulative incidence of CVD compared to other groups. Moreover, the mediating effect of BRI on the onset of CVD among diabetic patients was particularly pronounced in the long term, exceeding four years.
Limitations
The prevalence of CVD and diabetes is self-reported, potentially introducing biases into our analysis. Furthermore, the absence of a standardized criterion for BRI categorization presents challenges. Additionally, while considering factors such as age, sex, diabetes, and BRI, our study could not account for other relevant covariates due to inevitable data gaps, which may consequently lead to an underestimation of the relationship between BRI and the co-occurrence of diabetes and new-onset CVD.
Conclusions
The findings indicate that the BRI exerts a mediating influence between diabetes and the new-onset of CVD among the middle-aged and elderly demographic in China.
Evaluation of Evapotranspiration Estimation Methods in Potato Crops: A Study on FAO-56 and Direct Measurements in the Andean Region
Authors: Estupiñan-Casallas Jhon M. , Gómez-Latorre Douglas A. , Castaño-Marín Angela María , Rodríguez-Roa Andrea O. , Góez-Vinasco Gerardo A. , Varón-Ramírez Viviana Marcela 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study evaluates and compares different methods for estimating evapotranspiration (ET) in potato crops (Solanum tuberosum L.) in the Bogotá Savannah, focusing on the FAO-56 method and direct measurements using eddy covariance (EC) systems. The research addresses the variability in crop coefficients (Kc) due to local climatic and edaphic conditions, which complicates precise ET estimation. Soil moisture was monitored throughout the crop cycle using tensiometers and volumetric moisture measurements, with an optimal water potential limit of 40 cbar. A fixed sprinkler irrigation system was employed, and soil moisture conditions were simulated using the CROPWAT 8.0 software. The study found that Method 1, which adjusts Kc values based on local conditions, provided the most accurate ET estimates, with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.45 mm and a Willmott’s index of agreement (d) of 0.86. The Kc values for Method 1 were 0.73, 0.87, and 0.80 for the initial, mid, and final stages, respectively. In contrast, Method 5, which uses standard FAO-56 values, showed the poorest performance. The CROPWAT simulations indicated that Method 1 also closely matched the experimental irrigation requirements, Methods 2 and 3 significantly overestimated irrigation needs, while Method 5 underestimated them in the initial stages but overestimated during maturation. These results highlight the importance of adjusting Kc values to local conditions to improve irrigation efficiency and crop health. The findings provide a robust methodology for irrigation planning and optimization, contributing to agricultural sustainability and water resource conservation.
Amide proton transfer-weighted imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient imaging with histogram analysis to predict tumor budding in rectal cancer: a preliminary study
Authors: du yunxia , he yuqi , xu wenxiang , sun yun , li feixiang , pan nini , wang lili , cai wei , Huang Gang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objectives To investigate the value of histogram features based on amide proton transfer-weighted(APTw) imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient(ADC) images combined with clinical data and conventional magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) features in the preoperative prediction of tumor budding(TB) grade in rectal cancer (RC).
Methods We included a total of 71 TB patients who underwent surgical resection and pathological confirmation of RC between June 2023 and June 2024. The patients were classified into the low-intermediate grade group(n=44) and the high grade group (n=27) based on pathological findings. Histogram features are extracted by delineating a four-layer contour of the largest level of the tumor on APTw and ADC images. Following feature screening, the optimal histogram model is selected using machine learning, and the histogram feature score (Histogram-score) is calculated. Measurement of APTw signal intensity (SI) and ADC values was performed by subjectively delineating the region of interest (ROI) in the largest section of the tumor. Univariate logistic regression analysis was implemented to identify independent risk factors, including both clinical Characteristics, conventional MR features and Histogram-score. Subsequently, models for conventional MRI and combined model were constructed using multivariable binary logistic regression analysis for the purpose of predicting TB grade. Then, we plotted combined model into a nomograh for personalized prediction. Evaluation of model performance and clinical practicality was conducted using area under curve (AUC), calibration curve, and decision curve.
Results APTw SI was significantly higher in the high group compared with the low-intermediate grade group (P < 0.05). The value of ADC was significantly lower in the high group compared with the low-intermediate group (P < 0.05). The AUC of the conventional MRI model constructed on the basis of MRI-T stage, APT SI and ADC value was 0.891 (95% CI: 0.795, 0.953). A histogram model was composed of 5 histogram features filtered from the optimal SVM machine learning algorithm with AUC of 0.939 (95% CI: 0.856, 0.982). The AUC of the combined model constructed using ADC value and Histogram-score was 0.960 (95% CI: 0.885, 0.992). The combined model had higher diagnostic efficacy than the histogram model (P = 0.14) and the conventional MRI model (P = 0.04).
Conclusions The combined model constructed on the basis of histogram features of APTw and ADC images and conventional MRI features can effectively predict the TB grade of RC patients preoperatively, providing a preoperative noninvasive assessment method for the selection of treatment options and prognostic evaluation of RC patients.
3D Finite Element Analysis of Hybrid Prostheses on Pterygoid Implants of Varying Lengths in Edentulous Maxilla
Authors: AKBULUT Kuddusi , Caglar Alper 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of titanium framework hybrid prostheses designed for pterygoid implants of varying lengths in completely edentulous patients.
BACKGROUND
In cases of complete edentulism, insufficient bone volume and quality significantly increase the risk of complications during implant surgery. This is particularly challenging in the posterior maxilla, where severe atrophy complicates the placement of dental implants. Pterygoid implants are proposed as an alternative solution to address these challenges.
METHODS
This study was conducted at the Faculty of Dentistry, Yıldırım Beyazıt University. Hybrid prostheses were designed using Nobel Branemark implants, and stress distributions on the implants and surrounding bone were evaluated through three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA). The implants were categorized into two groups based on their placement in the anterior and posterior regions, with specific angles and lengths detailed in the methodology.
RESULTS
The findings indicated that the highest Von Mises stress values were concentrated at the neck region of the implants. Maximum and minimum principal stresses were observed in the peri-implant area. An increase in implant length altered the stress distribution within the implants but did not significantly affect the surrounding bone stress levels.