bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Causal effects of lung function on brain cortical structure and subcortical structure: a two-sample univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Shao Naiyuan , You Hongtao , Huang Chaojuan , Feng Xingliang , Fan Ligang , Zhang Yuyang 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Lung function has been increasingly linked to overall health, including brain health, prompting the investigation into the causal relationships between lung function and brain structures. This study employs Mendelian Randomization (MR) to explore these causal relationships, leveraging genetic variants as proxies to predict the effects of lung function on brain cortical and subcortical structures.
Methods
We conducted univariate and multivariable MR analyses using GWAS summary statistics for lung function (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC) and brain structures from the UK Biobank and ENIGMA consortium. Our analyses included five MR methods—IVW, MR-Egger, weighted median, weighted mode, and simple mode—to ensure robust causal inference. Multivariable MR (MVMR) analyses were performed to adjust for potential confounders like smoking and education. Sensitivity analyses were performed to confirm the stability of our results, and we applied FDR correction for multiple comparisons.
Results
The univariate MR analysis revealed significant associations between lung function and brain structures. Higher FEV1 was associated with increased global cortical volume (β = 4428.037, SE = 610.453, p < 0.0001) and supramarginal thickness (β = 43.613, SE = 13.218, p = 0.001). FVC was similarly associated with increased global cortical volume (β = 3650.674, SE = 576.736, p < 0.0001) and parsopercularis thickness (β = 0.013, SE = 0.003, p < 0.0001). Multivariable MR confirmed these associations, even after adjusting for smoking and education. Significant associations persisted in subcortical regions, with higher FEV1 and FVC linked to increased brainstem volume (FEV1: β = 0.226, SE = 0.049, p < 0.0001; FVC: β = 0.203, SE = 0.044, p < 0.0001) and amygdala volume for FEV1/FVC (β = 0.075, SE = 0.025, p = 0.003). Sensitivity and pleiotropy analyses indicated no significant heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy, confirming the robustness of the results.
Conclusion
Our study provides robust evidence of a causal relationship between lung function and brain structure, emphasizing the protective effects of better respiratory health on brain integrity. However, the reliance on European GWAS data limits generalizability, and some associations did not survive stringent correction. Future research should incorporate diverse populations and explore underlying mechanisms to validate and extend these findings.
Morphological and metabolic changes in Changshan Huyou (Citrus aurantium) following natural tetraploidization
Authors: Huang Peiru , Xu Tianyu , Wang Gang , Zhang Lin , Yao Ying , Zhang Min , Zhang Chi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Polyploids in citrus are generally used to improve crop varieties. Changshan Huyou (Citrus aurantium) is a native citrus species in China that is highly adaptable and has pharmaceutical value. However, the influence in Changshan Huyou following polyploidization remains unclear. Here we evaluated the phenotypic variations and metabolic alterations following autotetraploidization of Changshan Huyou seedlings and fruits and analyzed the associated transcriptomic changes.
Result
The tetraploid seedlings had rounder and thicker leaves, larger floral organs and fruits, and satisfactory viability of pollen grains and ovules. The tetraploid fruits accumulated lower levels of soluble solids but similar levels of organic acids. Metabolic profiling of three tissues of fruits revealed that most of 2064 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs), including flavonoids, lignans, and coumarins, were downregulated. In contrast, the upregulated DAMs mainly included alkaloids (clausine K and 2-(1-pentenyl)quinoline), amino acids (L-asparagine and L-ornithine), and terpenoids (deacetylnomilin and evodol) in tetraploid peels, as well as, flavonoids (neohesperidin and quercetin-5-O-β-D-glucoside) and organic acids (2-methylsuccinic acid and dimethylmalonic acid) in juice sacs. The upregulated genes were associated with phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, secondary metabolite biosynthesis, and the biosynthesis of various alkaloid pathways. The results of Pearson correlation analysis showed that the upregulated genes that encoded peroxidase and cytochrome P450 were closely related to a higher accumulation of amino acids and alkaloids in tetraploid peels, and neohesperidin and quercetin glucoside were increased by ferulate-5-hydroxylase, CYP450 81Q32, flavonoid 3'-monooxygenase, 4-coumarate–CoA ligase 1, and UDP-glucose flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase, as well as, some transcription factors in tetraploid juice sacs.
Conclusion
The tetraploid Changshan Huyou investigated here may be used in breeding triploid citrus, especially to produce seedless varieties, and for pharmaceutical purposes in fruit processing, as they influence metabolites following polyploidization.
Nanomolar inhibitor of the galectin-8 N-terminal domain binds via a non-canonical cation-π interaction
Authors: Anderluh Marko , Purić Edvin , Hassan Mujtaba , Sjövall Fredrik , Tomasic Tihomir , Pevec Mojca , Lah Jurij , Forteza Jaume , Leffler Hakon , Nilsson Ulf , Logan Derek T 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

We have developed a library of galectin-8N inhibitors that exhibit high nanomolar Kd values as determined by a competitive fluorescence polarization assay. A detailed thermodynamic analysis of the binding of d-galactosides to galectin-8N by isothermal titration calorimetry reveals important differences in enthalpic and/or entropic contributions to binding. Contrary to expectations, the binding of 2-O-propargyl-d-galactoside was found to strongly increase the binding enthalpy, whereas the binding of 2-O-carboxymethylene-d-galactoside was surprisingly less enthalpy-driven. The results of our work suggest that the ethynyl group can successfully replace the carboxylate group when targeting the water-exposed guanidine moiety of a critical arginine residue, with a minor loss of affinity and an adjusted enthalpic contribution to the overall binding due to non-canonical cation-π interactions, as evidenced by the obtained crystal structure of 2-O-propargyl-d-galactoside in complex with the N-terminal domain of galectin-8. To the best of our knowledge, such an interaction has neither been identified nor discussed to date.
Prevalence of online food delivery platforms, meal kit delivery, and online grocery
use in five countries: an analysis of the 2022 International Food Policy Study
Authors: Bennett Rebecca , Donso Clara Gomez , Zorbas Christina , Sacks Gary , White Christine , Hammond David , Gupta Adyya , Cameron Adrian , Vanderlee Lana , Contreras-Manzano Alejandra , Backholer Kathryn 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background: Online food retail is increasing in popularity, with user-friendly apps, new delivery models, and the influence of COVID-19 lockdowns changing consumer expectations. We aimed to quantify the prevalence of online food retail platform use (defined as online food delivery platforms, online grocery retailers, and online meal kit delivery services) across Australia, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom and the United States. We also assessed the associations between sociodemographic and behavioural factors and use of online food retail.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey with adults as part of the 2022 International Food Policy Survey (n=19 877). We described the frequency of use and number of meals ordered using different online food retail and delivery platforms. Logistic regression models were fitted to assess associations between the use of online food retail and delivery platforms, and sociodemographic and behavioural factors (including age, sex, household composition, BMI, income adequacy, ethnicity, cooking skills, nutrition knowledge, and frequency of food preparation). All estimates were weighted to age and sex-specific national populations.
Results: Overall, 58% of participants used online retail and delivery platforms. Of these, 36% of participants used online restaurants and 28% used online supermarkets, in the previous 30 days. The odds of using online restaurants was significantly higher for men (OR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.14 -1.33) and participants aged 18-29 (compared to those 60 years or older)(OR: 6.10, 95% CI: 5.34 – 7.00). Participants aged 18-29 also had the highest odds of using online convenience stores (OR: 7.51, 95% CI: 5.71 – 9.88). Participants living with primary school aged children had higher odds of using online supermarkets compared to those without children (OR: 2.56, 95% CI: 2.22 – 2.94).
​Conclusions: A substantial proportion of people are buying food online. Efforts to improve population diets need to ensure that online food retail platforms support good health and nutrition.
The Effect of Production Systems on Performance and Yield of Selected Plantation Crops in Homestead Agroforestry Practices
Authors: Bogale Daba , Getachew Goremsu , Gebretsadik Wondwossen 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of production systems on the growth, yield, and soil characteristics of avocado and citrus trees within homestead agroforestry practices in Dikicha, Habro woreda, Ethiopia. Conducted from June 2019, the research employed a replicated block design with control plots (pure stands of avocado and citrus) and treatment plots (Plantation Crop Combination Agroforestry Practice). Each plot contained nine fruit tree seedlings, replicated across three homesteads. Plantation Crop Combination Agroforestry Practice plots integrated coffee alongside the fruit trees. Tree growth was monitored by measuring height and diameter at breast height every six months. Soil samples were collected at three depths (0–20 cm, 20–40 cm, and 40–60 cm) and analyzed for pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, and cation exchange capacity. Agronomic data, including yields of other crops, were recorded annually. Results showed that tree growth in Plantation Crop Combination Agroforestry Practice plots significantly exceeded pure stands after 42 months for avocado and 36 months for citrus, likely due to competition for sunlight. While pure stands had higher yields for avocado and citrus, Plantation Crop Combination Agroforestry Practice plots demonstrated more diverse and higher overall farm outputs, including coffee, maize, potato, and papaya. Soil analyses revealed no significant differences in most soil parameters between the two systems. The study implies that Plantation Crop Combination Agroforestry Practice despite lower individual fruit yields, enhances overall farm productivity and diversity, making it a viable option for sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
Local investigation into the role of Culicoides species diversity (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) in recurrent horse dermatitis cases in southwest France
Authors: Prudhomme Jorian , Bardet Clara , Rakotoarivony Ignace , Garros Claire , Bouhsira Émilie , Lienard Emmanuel 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background. Insect bite hypersensitivity in horses (“sweet itch”) is the most common pruritic, chronic, seasonal, and recurrent dermatitis resulting from an allergic reaction in horses to the saliva of Diptera: Nematocera, primarily from the Culicoides genus. This dermatitis affects 10% of horses in France and is a major concern for the horse industry and private owners. Given the frequent occurrence of this health problem and the limited investigation in France, we conducted a field survey in the vicinity of a riding stable in south-western France with a reported chronic case of recurrent horse dermatitis to (i) characterize the Culicoides species associated with horse populations (hippophilic species) and (ii) estimate the relative abundance of the different species identified based on the trapping site location.
Methods. For this purpose, three OVI traps were set up for one night once a week, from mid-June to the end of July 2022, the known peak activity period. Traps were placed either indoors or outdoors at horse facilities.
Results. Twelve species were morphologically identified. Culicoides obsoletus and C. scoticus were predominant at all trapping sites. Culicoides circumscriptusand C. nubeculosus were the second most common species found, followed by C. punctatus, C. festivipennis, and C. pulicaris. Importantly, certain species (C. obsoletus / C. scoticus and C. circumscriptus) were found in significant quantities indoors.
Conclusions. The presence of these insects indoors in substantial numbers raises questions about the main prevention recommendation, which advises stabling horses from the end of the afternoon until the next morning.
The extracytoplasmic sigma factor SigX supports biofilm formation and increases biocontrol efficacy in Bacillus velezensis 118
Authors: Cai Yanfei , Tao Huan , Pi Hualiang , Helmann John 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Utilizing plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) to combat pathogens and enhance crop production is an environmentally friendly and sustainable approach. The biocontrol activity of PGPR depends on their ability to colonize plant roots and synthesize antimicrobial compounds that inhibit pathogens. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying these processes remain unclear. In this study, we isolated and characterized Bacillus velezensis isolate 118, a soil isolate that exhibits potent biocontrol activity against Fusarium wilt of banana. Deletion of sigX, an extracytoplasmic function (ECF) sigma factor previously implicated in controlling biofilm architecture in B. subtilis, reduced biocontrol efficacy. The B. velezensis 118 sigXmutant displayed reduced biofilm formation but had only a minor defect in swarming motility and a negligible impact on lipopeptide production. These findings highlight the importance of regulatory processes important for root colonization in the effectiveness of Bacillus spp. as biocontrol agents against phytopathogens.
Predictors of smartphone addiction in adolescents with depression: combing the machine learning and moderated mediation model approach
Authors: Zhou Yongjie , Pei Chenran , Yin Hailong , Zhu Rongting , Yan Nan , Wang Lan , Zhang Xuankun , Lan Tian , Li Junchang , Zeng Lingyun , Huo Lijuan 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Smartphone addiction (SA) significantly impacts the physical and mental health of adolescents, and can further exacerbate existing mental health issues in those with depression. However, fewer studies have focused on the predictors of SA in adolescents with depression. This study employs machine learning methods to identify key risk factors for SA and utilizes the Interpretable SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method to enhance model interpretability and assess the importance of each risk factor. Additionally, by constructing a mediation moderation model, the interactions between significant risk factors is analyzed. The study included 2,203 adolescents with depression. Machine learning results from three models (random forest, logistic regression, and decision tree) consistently identified emotion-focused coping, rumination, and school bullying as the strongest predictors of SA. Further mediation moderation analyses based on the Interaction of Person-Affect-Cognition-Execution (I-PACE) model revealed that rumination significantly mediated the relationship between school bullying and SA, and emotion-focused coping significantly moderated the relationships between school bullying and both rumination and SA. This is the first study to use machine learning to explore the predictors of SA in depressive adolescents and further analyze the interactions among these predictors. Future interventions for SA in adolescents with depression may benefit from psychotherapy that addresses emotion-focused coping and rumination.
The Differences in Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Ptosis Surgery: A Report of 260 Cases
Authors: Arazi Mattan , Kaplan Eitan , Simon Guy Ben , Rosner Mordechai , Sagiv Oded , Priel Ayelet , Landau-Prat Daphna , Zloto Ofira 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Blepharoptosis can be cosmetically distressing and obstruct upper visual fields. We aimed to examine the preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative characteristics of various ptosis repair surgeries at a major referral center
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed patients > 18 years of age who underwent ptosis repair surgery between February 2009 and December 2021 at a tertiary center. Congenital cases were excluded. Sub-analysis by ptosis type, surgical technique, and anterior vs. posterior approach surgery was performed. Main outcome measures included residual ptosis defined as Margin-to-Reflex Distance 1 < 2.5 mm at last follow-up, as well as clinically significant residual ptosis requiring re-do surgery.
Results
A total of 260 patients were included, with mean follow up of 259 ± 30 days (28–3771 days). Main indication for ptosis surgery was aponeurotic (222 patients). 164 (63.1%) patients underwent Müller's Muscle-Conjunctival Resection, 51 (19.6%) Fasanella-Servant, 35 underwent External Levator Advancement (13.5%), and 10 (3.8%) Frontalis-Sling suspension. Post-op residual ptosis and need for correction was seen in 66 eyes (25.4%) and 48 eyes (18.5%), respectively; however, differences were not significant between groups when analyzing by ptosis type (p ≥ 0.116), surgery type (p ≥ 0.444) and anatomical approach (p = 0.835).
Conclusions
No significant differences in residual ptosis, as well as referral for re-do surgery were shown between groups when analyzed by ptosis type, surgical choice, as well as anterior vs. posterior approach surgery. Ptosis corrective surgery can be completed using a variety of techniques with good success given that the correct surgical candidate and surgery are chosen.
Associations between exposure to digital food marketing and food consumption in adolescence: A cross-sectional study in an emerging country
Authors: Ares Gastón , Antúnez Lucía , Alcaire Florencia , Natero Virginia , Gugliucci Vanessa , Machín Leandro , León Carolina , Otterbring Tobias 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Evidence regarding the link between digital food marketing and eating habits is lacking in the majority world, i.e., the world regions where most people live. This study sought to investigate i) self-reported exposure to digital food marketing, ii) associations between such exposure and socio-demographic characteristics, and iii) associations between said exposure and food consumption frequency among adolescents in a Latin American country (Uruguay).
Methods
A sample of adolescents in grades 1–6 attending 29 public and 10 private high schools (n = 1542) was obtained through a cross-sectional survey using a stratified, two-stage cluster probability-based sampling approach. Participants filled out closed and open-ended questions about exposure to digital food marketing, food consumption frequency, social media usage, and socio-demographic characteristics. The data were analyzed through descriptive statistics and ordinal logistic regressions.
Results
Almost 90% of participants reported having seen a food and beverage advertisement on digital media in the week prior to the survey, with more than 70% of participants recalling advertisements of fast food, soft drinks, and savory snacks. Age, socio-economic status, or total social media use did not predict exposure frequency of digital food marketing but females (vs. males) reported higher exposure. Exposure to advertisements of fast food or ultra-processed products on social media or websites and total social media use typically predicted higher reported consumption frequency of such categories. However, exposure to digital food marketing did not predict consumption frequency of fruits, vegetables, meats, or fish, although total social media use predicted lower consumption frequency of fruits and vegetables.
Conclusions
Mere exposure to digital food marketing and total social media use were associated with higher consumption frequency of ultra-processed products. These findings underscore the need to reduce adolescent exposure to digital food marketing featuring unhealthy foods, possibly through mandatory policies including total bans of certain foods in such marketing.
Attribute risk burden and prediction analysis of cervical cancer under different sociodemographic transitions worldwide from 1990 to 2034
Authors: Hu Jie , Wang Yajie , Cai Zhengrong 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Cervical cancer is one of the four most prevalent cancers in women, posing a serious threat to women's health worldwide. In view of this, we aimed to investigate epidemiologic changes in the global burden of cervical cancer attributed to unsafe sex and smoking, respectively, and the relationship with social demographic index (SDI).
Methods
The data were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease 2019. Quantile regression and restricted cubic spline were employed to explore the relationship between age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) or age-standardized Disability-Adjusted Life Years rate (ASDR) of cervical cancer and SDI under different risk factors. Additionally, we used the Nordpred model to predict the ASMR trends in five countries with different SDIs from 2020 to 2034.
Results
The global disease burden of cervical cancer was gradually decreasing. People aged 55–59 years and 95 + years had the highest age- specific incidence and mortality, respectively. The burden attributed to smoking showed an upward and then downward trend with increasing SDI, peaking at the SDI of 0.6, whereas the burden attributable to unsafe sex decreased as the SDI increased. The ASMR of cervical cancer around the world attributed to smoking and unsafe sex is projected to decrease to 0.58 and 6.39 per 100,000 by 2034, respectively. It is also predicted that the ASMR of cervical cancer attributed to smoking in China, and that attributed to unsafe sex in India and Argentina will increase in the future.
Conclusion
Unsafe sex is the main risk factor for cervical cancer, followed by smoking. People aged 55–59 years and over 95 years are the key protection groups for cervical cancer. Low SDI and middle-low SDI areas are the key prevention and control areas for cervical cancer. The projection suggests that China needs to strengthen rational control of smoking, and India and Argentina need to improve scientific prevention of unsafe sex.