bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of key macrophage subtypes and therapeutic targets in periodontitis using integrated bioinformatics analysis and machine learning
Authors: Li Li , He Chengjiang , Dai Fang , Yang Yuting , Long Ting , Yang Kaiqiang , Ai Yufeng , Xu Fancheng , Wu Jianxin , Deng Libin , Song Li 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The innate immune system is fundamental to the body's primary defence against pathogens and plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis (PD). Macrophages, as a key component of this innate response, are instrumental in the disease's development and progression. However, our understanding of the distinct macrophage subtypes implicated in PD and the identification of novel therapeutic targets remains limited. We obtained single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and bulk sequencing data from PD patients from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). By integrating the scRNA-seq data, we have constructed a comprehensive single-cell atlas of the human gingiva. Key macrophage subtypes were screened using gene set variation analysis (GSVA). CellChat was used to assess intercellular communication. Using three machine learning algorithms, four hub genes (FCN1, CD93, XBP1, CTSH) associated with FCN1 + MAC were identified. These results were further validated experimentally. We revealed that macrophage subtypes were closely associated with inflammation and bone destruction in PD patients. Four hub genes that could be used as biomarkers to distinguish PD were identified. Our study found novel disease markers and potential drug targets, providing a foundation for more precise and effective interventions in the management of PD.
Association of changes in the left ventricular ejection fraction with physical function characteristics and survival in patients with heart failure
Authors: Fukuta Yoshitatsu , Tanaka Shinichiro , Kawaguchi Tomonori , Arizono Shinichi , Sawai Shota , Yoshida Akihisa , Tsugita Natsumi , Fuseya Takahiro , Segawa Tomonori 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: The relationship between the degree of change (Δ) in the left ventricular ejection fraction (ΔLVEF) and physical function and survival remains unclear. Therefore, we assessed the associations among physical characteristics, the ΔLVEF, and physical function and survival in response to heart failure (HF) treatment.
Methods: In this retrospective cohort analysis, patients with HF aged ≥65 years who underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) were classified into three groups based on the LVEF (recovered [HFrecEF], worsened [HFworEF], and unchanged [HFuncEF]). CPX measured the peak oxygen uptake (VO2) and peak minute ventilation (VE).
Results: Overall, 191 patients were included. Age, height, and weight did not differ significantly between the groups. The HFworEF group showed significant deterioration in blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, brain natriuretic hormone, and estimated glomerular filtration levels. Oral administration of beta-blockers was significantly higher in the HFrecEF group than in the other groups. Based on the Kruskal–Wallis test, the three groups differed significantly in terms of the peak VO2 (HFrecEF, median 806.5; HFworEF, 600.0; and HFuncEF, 749.0; P<.05), heart rate (HFrecEF, 121.0; HFworEF, 100.0; and HFuncEF, 107.0; P<.05), and VE (HFrecEF, 35.3; HFworEF, 25.8; and HFuncEF, 34.0; P<.01). Furthermore, the peak VO2 (ρ: 0.25) and peak VE (ρ: 0.18) were not correlated with the ΔLVEF (all P<.01). The HFrecEF group had a significantly lower mortality rate at 60 months compared with the HFuncEF group (log-rank test, P<.05).
Conclusions: The HFworEF group had poor heart and kidney function and low physical function. The HFrecEF category had a relatively favourable long-term mortality rate at 60 months. ΔLVEF was not correlated with physical function.
Transforming in-service high school biology teachers’ acceptance of evolution through professional development
Authors: Pérez-Vega Ángel Eduardo , Papa Riccardo , Borrero Michelle 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: Evolution plays a significant role in the understanding of biology. Educators must acknowledge the importance of this theory for effective biology teaching, but there are several educational gaps both in the classroom and in in-service teachers that need to be addressed to help improve the acceptance and understanding of the theory of evolution. In this study, the Measure of Acceptance of the Theory of Evolution (MATE) was translated, adapted, and evidence was gathered for its use with Spanish-speakers, as means to study how in-service teachers’ acceptance of the theory of evolution changes after participating in a professional development program (PD), framed in the genome-to-phenome overarching theme.
Results: Evidence was gathered to evaluate content validity, response process, internal structure, and reliability of the MATE instrument for it use with Spanish speakers (i.e., MATE-E). A pilot test was conducted, enabling an Exploratory Factor Analysis to be performed. Five factors were identified. When administered to teachers that participated in a PD program, descriptive statistics showed that all teachers had higher scores in the posttest. A Wilcoxon matched pairs and signed ranks test produced a Zscore of -2.023 and a p value of .043.
Conclusions: MATE’s translation to Spanish, as well as its adaptation, and the evidence-gathering process for the instrument’s possible use with Spanish-speaking participants are discussed. A PD was implemented to develop concepts related to the theory of evolution for in-service teachers. MATE-E was administered to five teachers before and after participating in the PD program. A Wilcoxon matched pairs and signed ranks test was carried out to test if treatment was effective in changing their acceptance of the theory of evolution. The null hypothesis was rejected; and it can be confirmed that the treatment was both significant and positive in changing participants’ acceptance of the theory of evolution.
The genetic interaction between Atopic dermatitis and Celiac disease: A bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Rong Jian , Chang Peng , Li Yaoyao , Wang Xin , Song Mei 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: Multiple previous observational studies have reported inconsistent results in investigating the association between atopic dermatitis (AD) and celiac disease (CD).Observational studies may be inadequate for elucidating potential causal relationships between AD and CD due to the issues of reverse causation and confounding variables. The existence of a bidirectional causal relationship between AD and CD remains unclear.
Objective: To investigate the potential bidirectional causal relationship between atopic dermatitis and celiac disease.
Methods: Utilizing the summary statistics from large-scale Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWASs) in European populations, we examined the potential bidirectional causal effects between AD and CD through a bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis. The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was employed as the primary analytical approach. The MR-Egger, weighted median, simple mode, and weighted mode were utilized as complementary approaches.
Subsequently, a series of sensitivity analyses were conducted to evaluate the robustness and reliability of the MR findings.
Results: Our findings revealed that the IVW results indicated a significant increase in the prevalence of AD in individuals with genetically predicted CD (OR = 1.46, CI = 1.07-1.96, PIVW = 0.014) and conversely (OR = 1.05, CI = 1.03-1.08, PIVW = 4.80x10-6). Furthermore, subsequent sensitivity analyses addressing heterogeneity, pleiotropy, and other potential biases substantiated these results.
Conclusions: We established a bidirectional causal relationship between atopic dermatitis and celiac disease through a two-sample bidirectional MR study. Therefore, early screening and preventive measures are recommended for patients with atopic dermatitis and celiac disease to mitigate long-term complications and reduce additional burdens.
Are there any differences between women with long term gastric bypasses and non-operated matched controls in body composition, muscular strength and physical performance?
Authors: Sánchez Andrés , Basfi-fer Karen , Inostroza Jorge , Carrasco Gabriela , Sambra Verónica , Codoceo Juana , Rojas Pamela 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
There is concern about an excessive loss of fat-free mass (FFM), and its consequences in the long term after bariatric surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate body composition, muscle strength and physical performance in a group of women who underwent Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB-G) more than 2 years ago, and had stable weight, not significant weight regain, using micronutrient supplementation and compare them with a non-operated control group (CG).
Methods
We assessed body composition by DEXA, handgrip strength (HGS) and physical performance through sit-to-stand tests in the RYGB-G (n = 13) and in a CG (n = 13) matched by age, body mass index, skin phototype and physical activity level. Dietary intake, sun exposure, nutritional, biochemical and hormonal assessments were done in both groups.
Results
The RYGB-G had a mean follow-up of 6.7 ± 2.8 years and had a greater FFM (42.3 ± 4.9 vs 38.4 ± 4.5kg, p = 0.049), FFM% (60.7 ± 5.1 vs 56.1 ± 5.1%, p = 0.027) and FFM/Fat Mass (1.72 ± 0.43 vs 1.39 ± 0.30kg, p = 0.033) than the CG. The CG had a higher fat mass percentage (FM% 36.4 ± 5.2 vs 41.1 ± 5.3%, p = 0.029). There were no differences between the groups for HGS or physical performance tests. The average energy intake was significantly higher in the CG 1021.5 (957.5-1278.7) vs 1498.6 (1310.7-1767.7) kcal/day p = 0.002.
Conclusion
Women with a long term RYGB (BMI 27.5 ± 3.4 kg/m2) and regular use of micronutrients supplementation had a higher FFM, FFM%, FFM/FM and lower FM% compared to a CG, without differences in HGS or physical performance tests.
Hierarchical methodology framework for assessing dynamic evolution trends and driving mechanisms of water conservation in the Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Zhao Gaolei , Tian Shimin , Liang Shuai , Jing Yongcai , Chen Rongxu , Wang Wanwan , Han Bing 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Water conservation (WC) is a critical ecological service function in the Yellow River Basin (YRB). There is currently a lack of detailed exploration of WC development processes and the impact mechanisms of driving factors at spatiotemporal scales in the YRB. By collecting data on DEM, land use, soil, meteorology, reservoirs, and observed discharge, this study established a large-scale WC model using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). The abrupt change test, empirical orthogonal function (EOF), wavelet analysis, hierarchical partitioning analysis (HPA), geodetectors, and aridity index were employed to analyze the multi-spatiotemporal characteristics and driving forces of WC calculated using the water balance method. The results are as follows: (1) The average WC among the YRB was 9.11 mm (74.68 × 108 m3) from 1960 to 2020. Pasture and forests contributed to 48.65% and 22.05% of the average annual WC, respectively. (2) WC exhibited four forms: less/more in the YRB, more in the southeast (northwest), and less in the northwest (southeast). (3) Forests and pastures in land use had higher average WC capacity, while Gansu, Shaanxi, and Qinghai ranked in the top three for average WC among the nine provinces. (4) Precipitation was the major driving force affecting WC variations, with the interaction between precipitation and actual evapotranspiration being the most significant. (5) Drought was a significant cause of negative WC. Protecting and managing crucial WC areas was essential for improving the ecological environment. This research elucidates the driving forces of WC in the YRB, providing scientific support for improving regional WC and promoting sustainable development.
Serum Lactate Dehydrogenase and Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Correlate Optimally with Nottingham Prognostic Index for Breast Cancer
Authors: Rutenge Sylvery Mwesige , Kyaruzi Victor Meza , Misidai Mungeni , Mchembe Mabula Daud , Mwanga Ally Hamisi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
LDH and GGT have been identified as prognostic serum markers for breast cancer patients. The serum level of LDH is increased due to increased anaerobic glycolysis in malignant neoplastic conditions. GGT has also been noted to increase in circulation, indicating the extent of oxidative stress within the body. Their levels are high in advanced breast cancer patients. Moreover, in our setting, there are no serum marker data available on a routine basis for breast cancer surveillance among women orfor predicting patient prognosis. Thus, these markers can augment the available tool(s) for predicting breast cancer prognosis since they are widely available, accessible, and economically affordable.
Objective
This study aimed to assess the correlation between LDH/GGT and the NPI among women with breast cancer.
Study Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted for 12 months. The data were collected by interviewing patients, patients’ files and from the hospital’s electronic database (Jeeva) and then completed the structured checklist. IBM SPSS version 27 was used to analyse the data. The mean, median and standard deviation were used to present numerical variables. Categorical variables are presented as frequencies or proportions. Correlations were assessed and analysed by Spearman correlation coefficient and linear regression models,while receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine the accuracy.
Results
The 104 patients who underwent radical mastectomy for breast cancer had a mean age of 48.51 ±12.80 years. Among them, 27 (26%) were diagnosed before 40 years of age.
With a Spearman coefficient of r=0.66 and p<0.01, a regression coefficientof b=4.21 and p<0.001, and a coefficient of determination of 28.3%, a substantial positive correlation between LDH and the NPI was found. Based on the NPI and TNM, LDH demonstrated significant predictive accuracy for the prognosis of breast cancer patients, with AUCs of 0.85 (95% CI: 0.77 - 0.92, p<0.001) and 0.87 (0.80 - 0.94, p<0.001), respectively, according to the ROC curve.
A weak positive correlation between GGT and the NPI was observed, with a Spearman coefficient of r=0.46 and p<0.01. With AUCs of 0.73 (95% CI: 0.62 ─ 0.83, p<0.001) and 0.76 (95% CI: 0.67 ─ 0.85, p<0.001) for the ROC curve, GGT showed modest predictive accuracy for the prognosis of breast cancer patients based on the NPI and TNM, respectively.
Conclusion
Preoperative serum levels of LDH and GGT can serve as predictors for breast cancer outcome for women with breast cancer undergoing modified radical mastectomy in conjunction with other potential prognostic factors.
The mediating effect of self-efficacy and physical activity with the moderating effect of social support on the relationship between negative body image and depression among Chinese College students: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yuan Ye , Zheng Junyi , Yang Ke , Su Yuqi , Jin Lei , Mao Huapei , Zhou Qiang , Wu Daili 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Fitness to maintain an ideal body shape is becoming increasingly popular among college students. However, it also leads to many mental health issues. This study explores the pathways through which negative body image affects depression in college students. It also examines possible means of implementing depression interventions in college populations through the mediating roles of self-efficacy and physical activity, and the moderating role of social support.
Method
The present study employed a convenience sampling method to collect data from 600 university students using the Body Image Scale, Self-Efficacy Scale, Physical Activity Scale, General Social Support Scale and Depression Self-Rating Scale. Data analysis and structural equation modeling were conducted using SPSS, M-plus and R software.
Result
The result indicate that negative body image is positively correlated with depression. Self-efficacy and physical exercise play a chain mediating role between body image and depression. Additionally, social support moderates the effects of self-efficacy by predicting the pathway through which physical activity effects depression.
Conclusion
The study suggest that individuals with a negative body image are more prone to depression and that physical exercise can help alleviate their depressive symptoms. Self-efficacy is an important mediator, and social support moderates adherence to physical exercise. Therefore, attention should be paid to the mental health issues of college students with negative body images.
Suicidality, resilience and burnout in a population of oncology nurses
Authors: Despotović Milena M. , Ristić Dragana Ignjatović , Banković Dragić , Milovanović Dragan , Stepanović Željko , Despotović Mile , Zlatanović Milena , Raketić Diana , Milisavljević Milan , Boljanović Jelena , Ćetković Mila 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Oncology care gives employees the opportunity to care for people during the most difficult periods of their lives, which can affect the psychological well-being of nurses in different domains. The aim of this work is to examine to which extent resilience and professional burnout influence the occurrence of suicidality in oncology nurses and determine the differences compared to other populations. The study included a total of 75 oncology nurses, as well as three control groups: nurses of various specialities, administrative workers and nursing students. The respondents filled out the Serbian version of the RASS-Suicidality Assessment Scale, the Serbian version of the Brief Resilience Scale-BRS, and the Maslach Inventory for Professional Burnout. The observed variables were compared by Spearman's Rho correlation. In the population of oncology nurses and technicians, resilience and suicidality are negatively correlated with each other (r = -0.375, p = 0.001). In the same population, professional burnout and suicidality are not correlated, but the correlation was significant in all other control groups. Our research established the importance of strengthening the resilience of employees in the health sector, through various programs and trainings. Working professionals are more often forced to develop individual protective strategies and incorporate them into daily practice.
How digital technology affects economic growth through industrial structural change?
Authors: Yang Tilong , Du Changyu 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

This article explores through an empirical study how changes in industrial structure as a result of the development of digital technology can affect economic growth. The study finds that, in general, the development of digital technology has a positive impact on economic growth, but based on the perspective of industrial structure change, the servitization of the industrial structure due to the development of digital technology can inhibit economic growth. Thus, economy factor must be guided to integrate deeply with the real economy, especially the manufacturing industry, and must not be allowed to flow excessively into the service industry.
JEL Codes: L160; O14; O47
Feasibility of Using Ready Mix Concrete Plants Wash Water as Mixing Water in Concrete
Authors: Shamseldein Ayman , Amr Mohamed , Attia Fatma 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Egypt relies heavily on the Nile River as its main source of drinking water. With Ethiopia's new dam and Egypt's increasing population, researchers anticipate a major water shortage. In response, the Egyptian government has launched several initiatives, such as canal linings and seawater desalination plants, to prevent potential water loss. This research aims to offer a solution by reducing the use of potable water in concrete production, which currently accounts for over 16% of the country's fresh water consumption. The proposed approach involves using recycled wash water from ready-mix plants instead of potable water. At present, these plants use potable water for washing. Each cubic meter of concrete produced requires 70 litres of wash water for the truck mixer and pump. By replacing potable water with recycled wash water, potable water usage could decrease by 30%. Given Egypt's concrete production levels, this could save around 11 million cubic meters of water annually. This saved water could irrigate 70,000 feddans using traditional methods or 420,000 feddans with advanced irrigation techniques. This research explores the feasibility of using wash water in concrete by examining four replacement ratios: 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. The findings suggest that while wash water can be used in concrete with an optimal replacement ratio with potable water.
Floristic composition, structure and regeneration status as affected by agro-climatic variation in the Bale mountains national park, South-eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Muhammed Annissa , Elias Eyasu 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
The Bale Mountains National Park (BMNP) is an internationally significant biodiversity hotspot located in the Bale eco-region, southeastern highlands of Ethiopia. Despite its huge ecological importance, habitat degradation occurs at an alarming rate across different agro-climatic zones, posing a severe threat to the survival of many species. This study aims to assess the effects of agro-climatic variation on floristic composition, structure, and explore the human-induced factors responsible for ecosystem changes in the park.
Results
A total of 144 sampling plots covering an area of 5.76 ha were established across three altitudinal gradients with four replications to collect representative vegetation data. Mean species comparison across agro-climatic zones was determined using one-way ANOVA and significant differences were reported with p < 0.05. Results showed that both species richness (76) and mean DBH of woody species (49.63 ± 1.34 cm) were significantly higher in the sub-moist mid highland than in the cold humid afro-alpine zone (29) and in the cool moist mid highlands (31 and 44.50 ± 1.42 cm, respectively). The density of seedlings, saplings, and mature trees was significantly higher in the sub-moist mid highland compared to the cool moist mid highlands.
Conclusion
The study concludes that the sub-moist mid-highland harbors most species and has trees with higher DBH, requiring protection against ecological degradation due to human activities. The higher altitude cold humid afro-alpine zone is ecologically fragile and needs a comprehensive natural resource management strategy that combines restoration and protection of the natural ecosystem.