bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in PSCA Associated with Bladder Cancer Susceptibility in an Indian Subpopulation
Authors: Bidi Saziya , Rangrez Shadab , Nerli Rajendra 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Urothelial bladder cancer(UBC) is the most common neoplasm of the urinary system. Genome Wide Association Studies (GWAS) have reported that single nucleotide polymorphisms in the PSCA gene are associated with BC risk. Prostate stem cell antigen genes play a role in cell proliferation inhibition and cell death induction. The expression of PSCA is altered in BC. It may be a useful marker for diagnosis and disease progression of UBC.
Materials and methods
In this hospital-based study, we evaluated the risk factors for bladder cancer and their associations with single nucleotide polymorphisms in the PSCA gene. rs2294008C/T genotyping was performed by real-time Taqman® probes in histologically confirmed BC patients (107) and healthy controls (105) from a tertiary care hospital. Statistical analysis of association studies was performed with SPSS ver 22.0.
Results
The odds ratio for heterozygosity for CT and variant allele T of rs2294008 were 1.71 and 1.82 respectively. Thus there is an increased risk of BC due to polymorphisms. When the PSCA rs2294008C/T heterozygous CT genotype for high-grade tumors was combined with the tumor-grade, a substantial BC risk was found (p = 0.001;OR = 1.984). For individuals with the PSCA rs2294008C/T gene polymorphism heterozygous for the CT genotype (p = 0.0001), smoking significantly reduced the incidence of BC.
Conclusions
Our research revealed that a complicated intervention involving PSCA rs2294008C/T confers a greater risk of BC risk in the North Karnataka population
Exploration of the shared pathways and common biomarker LY96 in Endometriosis and Systemic lupus erythematosus using integrated bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Huang Jin , Ruan Xuelian , Chen Yongling , Zhong Ziqing , Nie Jiaqi , Zeng Moqiyi , Tao Xiang , Qin Xue , Chen Hua Ping 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Endometriosis (EMS) is a chronic gynecological disorder that affects 5–10% of women of reproductive age, and Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is one of the most prevalent systemic autoimmune diseases. Despite clinical evidence suggesting potential associations between EMS and SLE, the underlying pathogenesis is yet unclear. This article aimed to explore the shared gene signatures and potential molecular mechanisms in EMS and SLE. Microarray data were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and used to screen for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the SLE datasets. A weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to identify the co-expression modules of EMS. cytoscape software and three machine learning algorithms were used to determine critical biomarkers, and a diagnostic model was built using the XG-Boost machine learning algorithms. Immune cell infiltration analysis was used to investigate the correlation between immune cell infiltration and common biomarkers of EMS and SLE. Results revealed that shared genes enriched in immune-related pathways and inflammatory responses. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve and the Precision-Recall (PR) curves showed satisfactory performance of the model. immune cell infiltration analysis showed that the expression of hub genes was closely associated with immune cells. RT-qPCR results indicated that LY96 might be the best biomarker for EMS and SLE.
Investigating the relationship between electronic learning and emotional and cultural intelligence of 2021-2022 incoming nursing students at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences
Authors: Shokrpour Nasrin , Soleymani Zenab , Farahmandi Amir Yusef 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: The present research aimed to investigate the relationship between electronic learning and emotional and cultural intelligence in Shiraz University of Medical Sciences nursing students who entered the university in the years 2021 and 2022.
Methods: This is a cross-sectional and correlational study conducted in the School of Nursing in Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. 172 nursing students who were studying in the academic year 2021-2022 participated in this study. 90 nursing students in 2021 and 82 in 2022 entered the university. Using Morgan's sampling table, we selected 118 nursing students as the statistical sample. Due to the emergence of the Covid-19, available sampling was used. To collect the data, we used three emotional intelligence, cultural intelligence, and e-learning questionnaires. Pearson's correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression test were employed to analyze the data.
Results: It was shown that there was a significant relationship between emotional intelligence and e-learning with students' cultural intelligence. In addition, there was a significant relationship between electronic learning and emotional intelligence dimensions. Also, there was a positive and significant relationship between e-learning and the dimensions of cultural intelligence. The optimism, strategic, and motivational components could predict electronic learning in students.
Discussion and conclusion: According to the findings of the research, e-learning is a new teaching method that was used in Iran following the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic in the world, which provides many educational opportunities for the educational system of the country. It exists and it prompted experts and curriculum specialists to examine e-learning and its influencing factors seriously and comprehensively. When students are at a favorable level in terms of emotional intelligence and spiritual intelligence, they can accept electronic learning and improve and develop it.
Exploring System Contexts Contributing to Emerging Collaborative REDD+ Governance: Lessons from Ghana
Authors: Osei Misharch Kwadwo 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Since its emergence in 2007, the global mechanism for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation in developing countries (REDD+) has raised hopes of providing cost-effective solutions to tackle climate change. However, despite its potential, the design and implementation of REDD+ projects in many developing countries, including Ghana, have faced complex governance challenges. In recent years, collaborative governance approaches have been increasingly recommended for designing and implementing effective and equitable REDD+ projects, but the impacts of diverse potentially important contextual factors on such projects are unclear. Through the lens of the Integrative Framework for Collaborative Governance (IFCG) and a qualitative case study of a collaborative REDD+ governance arrangement in Ghana’s High Forest Zone, this study aimed to analyze official participants perceptions of the effects of the system context variables on the conditions for successful collaboration on REDD+ implementation. Based on 10 in-depth semi-structured interviews and project documentation analysis, the results indicate that Ghana’s dynamic system context facilitates the initiation of collaboration in REDD+ projects when stakeholders feel uncertain about the provision of forest resources and recognize their interdependence in responding to such issues. In this context, collaborative governance aligns with stakeholders’ interests in addressing context-related problems affecting sustainable REDD+ forest management. The findings highlight the need for stakeholders to develop a shared knowledge of issues in collective governance, collective action, and encouragement of cross-sector leadership.They also highlight the IFCG framework’s applicability and utility for studying the impact of contextual factors on the success of REDD+ collaborations.
Serum cytokine levels in children with community-acquired pneumonia caused by different respiratory pathogens
Authors: Yuan-Hui DUAN , Yue-Xu OU , GAN Xiao-Ming , LI Jie-Ling , Jie CAO 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objective
To investigate the serum levels of cytokines in children with community-acquired pneumonia caused by different respiratory pathogens. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of children who were hospitalized with CAP in the Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University from February 2021 to October 2022. According to different pathogens, they were divided into Mycoplasma pneumoniae group, Adenovirus group, respiratory syncytial virus group, Haemophilus influenzae group, and Streptococcus pneumoniae group, and the levels of cytokines among groups were analyzed. Results: The level of IL-2 in Mycoplasma pneumoniae was higher than that RSV and Streptococcus pneumoniae. On IL-4, Mycoplasma pneumoniae was higher than RSV. In terms of IL-6, RSV was lower than that of Mycoplasma pneumoniae, adenovirus and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The level of IL-10 in Mycoplasma pneumoniae was lower than that adenovirus and RSV. Haemophilus influenzae was lower than RSV. In terms of IL-17A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae was higher than RSV, Haemophilus influenzae and Streptococcus pneumoniae. In terms of INF-γ, Mycoplasma pneumoniae was higher than that of RSV, Haemophilus influenzae and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Adenovirus and RSV were higher than Haemophilus influenzae, and the above differences were statistically significant. In Mycoplasma Pneumonia and Haemophilus influenzae, the severe pneumonia in IL − 6 and IL − 10, IFN - gamma are significantly higher than common pneumonia(P < 0.05).Conclusions: The expression levels of cytokines in community-acquired pneumonia caused by different respiratory pathogens are different. IL-6, IL-10 and IFN-γ have certain reference significance in predicting severe pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae.
Bacteriological and physicochemical analysis of water from different sources in a rural community of Jos South Local Government Area (LGA), Plateau State. Nigeria
Authors: Zang Pam Martin , Lubis Sati , Ndayishimiye Jean Claude , Josephine Meseko , Adamu Samson Kumzhira , Ahmad Saidu Idris , Ruth Adamu Rottemwa , Yakubu Vwot Ezekiel 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Clean water is essential for the health and survival of all life forms. Surface and underground water polluted by microbes and chemicals exacerbates issues of water scarcity. This continues to negatively affect the well-being of most people in developing countries like Nigeria and K-Vom, in Plateau State. Thus, this study aimed to determine the bacteriological and physicochemical parameters of water samples from borehole, tap, well, and rain water in K-Vom community of Jos South Local Government area.
Methods
Water samples from five locations underwent detailed analysis. Coliform presence was assessed using Eosin methylene blue agar and various equipment were used to assess physicochemical parameters like pH, temperature, turbidity, Phosphates, Sulphates, Nitrates, total hardness, total suspended solids, COD, and BOD following standard guidelines as specified by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency.
Results
Escherichia coli dominated as the most prominent organisms, indicating bacterial contamination. Tap water (e.g., NVRI compound) recorded the least Total Heterotrophic Bacterial (THB) count of 1.2x102 and 2MPN/100ml for Total Coliform Count (TCC), while Well water sources, particularly those from Angwan Madugu, had the highest contamination, with a THB count of 8.5x104 and 800-1500MPN/100ml for Coliforms. Physicochemical parameters generally complied with WHO limits, except for Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and Nitrates (Means: 0.14mg/L, 74.9mg/L). Their t-Test values were 2.69 and 2.91, with non-significant p-values (0.075 and 0.062) respectively. BOD also recorded a low t-score (2.94) with a non-significant p-value (0.060).
Conclusions
Though most Physicochemical conditions met WHO standards, local water sources are generally unfit due to bacterial contamination. Hence, simple water treatment practices are recommended. The study suggests further tests and comprehensive evaluations, extending beyond the locality, for a more thorough understanding of water quality parameters in future investigations.
Unfolding insights about resilience and its coping strategies among medical academics and healthcare professionals: A thematic qualitative analysis
Authors: Guraya Salman Yousuf , Dias Jacqueline Maria , Eladl Mohamed Ahmed , Rustom Ayah Mohammad Rajai , Alalawi Fatima Audi Saleem , Alhammadi Majid Hassan Saleh , Ahmed Yusra Ahmed Mohammed , Shamsi Amna Ali Omran Taryam Al , Bilalaga Sarah Juman , Nicholson Alfred , Malik Hani , Salman Shaista 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Health care professionals (HCPs) and medical and health academics (MHAs) strive to maintain and promote population health through evidence-based medical education and practice. At their workplaces, due to the demanding nature of work, HCPs and MHAs face substantial degree of physiological, psychological, and physical stress including burnout. Resilience has therefore become a fundamental necessity in the medical field. Our research aimed to acquire an in-depth comprehension of how HCPs and MHAs understand, cultivate, and sustain resilience when confronted with challenges and stressors at their workplaces.
Methods
We reviewed the existing corpus of literature on resilience, stressors, and coping strategies and followed an iterative process of deliberations for the development of a questionnaire. It was validated by content experts and was piloted on a small group of MHAs of the University of Sharjah (UoS) and HCPs from different hospitals of the United Arab Emirates to test its relevance, clarity of items, internal consistency, and inter-observer validity. The validated questionnaire was then used for in-depth interviews on HCPs and MHAs. Lastly, we adopted the Braun and Clarke 6-stage thematic model for qualitative data analysis.
Results
Our study recorded insights of 170 participants; 69 MHAs and 101 HCPs. Through an inductive thematic analysis of responses, three overarching themes with sub-themes emerged; cognitive mastery (cognitive appraisal and problem-solving abilities), affective well-being (gratification from professional efficacy and social support), and conative efficiency (proactive approaches and introspection and reflection). Other main findings highlighted stress-related factors, realistic expectations, personal well-being and work-life balance. MHAs were concerned about academic output and research, while HCPs were stressed about patient care, delivery of services, and workload. These constructs showcase an intricate interplay between cognitive mastery, affective well-being, and conative efficiency.
Conclusion
The findings of our study bestow valuable insights into the dynamic nature of resilience in the medical profession. The synergies and dissimilarities in work-life balance, personal productivity, and job-specific stressors among HCPs and MHAs demand a well-structured resilience program. The themes of cognitive mastery, affective well-being, and conative efficiency are interconnected and can help foster work-life balance and personal well-being of HCPs and MHAs to improve their resilience.
Social Isolation, Social Interaction, and Neuroticism: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Guo Jinjin , Liu Keqin , Zhu Yaqi , Yang Jixin , Su Yanwei 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Objective
Neuroticism, as a fundamental personality trait marked by emotional instability, anxiety, and a propensity for negative emotions, presents difficulties in elucidating its developmental underpinnings, especially in the context of its association with social factors. Concurrently, observational studies in this domain encounter various hurdles, such as confounding variables and the issue of reverse causality. This study employed Two-sample Mendelian Randomization (TSMR) to explore the genetic basis of the causal relationship between social isolation, social interaction, and neuroticism.
Methods
Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with social isolation and social interaction were extracted from an aggregated Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) dataset. Instrumental variables conforming to predetermined criteria were selected. The primary TSMR analysis was conducted using the Inverse Variance-Weighted (IVW) method, complemented by robustness checks through the Weighted Median, Weighted Mode, and MR Egger methods. Heterogeneity and pleiotropy tests were performed, along with sensitivity analyses, to enhance the precision and robustness of the results.
Results
Among five social engagement types analyzed, loneliness (IVW Odds Ratio per Standard Deviation change: 4.230; 95% Confidence Interval: 2.081–8.599; p<0.001) and loneliness (MTAG) (IVW Odds Ratio per Standard Deviation change: 1.670; 95% Confidence Interval: 1.314–2.122; p<0.001) demonstrated a statistically significant association with increased neuroticism risk. The remaining three social engagement types showed no significant association with neuroticism risk.
Conclusion
The findings suggest a causal relationship between loneliness and loneliness (MTAG) and a heightened risk of neuroticism, warranting further research to understand the underlying mechanisms.
Effects of acupuncture on Parkinson's disease-related constipation and roles of gut microbial ecology: study protocol for a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Lei Suying , Fan Jingqi , Quan Jingyi , Li Yinjia , Cen Minjun , Xu Xiaoyan , Liu Xin , Wu Shunan , Liao Kaihao , Lin Shumin , Zhang Yifan , Tsang YauKeung , Leong IanI , Liu Qing , Hong Xubo , Zhuang Xun , Liao Muxi , Zhuang Lixing 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Motor disturbances and non-motor manifestations, notably constipation, stand as primary factors influencing the quality of life in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). Recent microbiological research increasingly links PD with the gastrointestinal environment, highlighting the crucial role of gut microbiota. Clinical studies suggest acupuncture may alleviate motor impairments and associated non-motor issues, like constipation, in PD patients. However, limited research on underlying mechanisms necessitates further evidence-based investigation for comprehensive validation. This study aims to investigate whether acupuncture improves the clinical symptoms of patients with Parkinson's disease-related constipation (PDC) by modulating the balance of intestinal microecology.
Methods: This single-blind randomized controlled clinical trial enrolls 84 patients with PDC, randomly allocated in a 1:1:1 ratio to real acupuncture group (RA), sham acupuncture group (SA), and waitlist control group (WG). Treatments will span four weeks, with primary outcomes measured through changes in the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS). Secondary outcomes include the Stool diary, the Non-Motor Symptoms Scale (NMSS), 30-meter walking test, fecal 16S rDNA gene sequencing, serum Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) levels. The adherence and adverse events will also be recorded. Participants will be followed until week 16, and statistical analyses will encompass all allocated individuals.
Discussion: The outcomes of this study are anticipated to substantiate the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of acupuncture as a complementary treatment for PDC. The study holds the potential to furnish robust clinical evidence, thereby contributing to the establishment of novel guidelines for the treatment of PDC.
Trial registration: The Research Ethical Committee at the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine authorized this trial. The trial is registered with the Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR) under registration number ChiCTR2400082060, registered on March 20, 2024. (https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=200177)
Coactivator-independent vitamin D receptor signaling causes severe rickets in mice, which is not prevented by a diet high in calcium, phosphate, and lactose
Authors: Doms stefanie , Verlinden Lieve , Janssens Iris , Vanhevel Justine , Eerlings Roy , Houtman René , Kato Shigeaki , Mathieu Chantal , Decallonne Brigitte , Carmeliet Geert , Verstuyf Annemieke 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

The vitamin D receptor (VDR) plays a critical role in the regulation of mineral and bone homeostasis. Upon binding of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 to the VDR, the activation function 2 (AF2) domain repositions and recruits coactivators for the assembly of the transcriptional machinery required for gene transcription. In contrast to coactivator-induced transcriptional activation, the functional effects of coactivator-independent VDR signaling remain unclear. In humans, mutations in the AF2 domain are associated with hereditary vitamin D-resistant rickets, a genetic disorder characterized by impaired bone mineralization and growth. In the present study, we used mice with a systemic or conditional deletion of the VDR-AF2 domain (VdrΔAF2) to study coactivator-independent VDR signaling. We confirm that ligand-induced transcriptional activation was disabled because the mutant VDRΔAF2 protein was unable to interact with coactivators. Systemic VdrΔAF2 mice developed short, undermineralized bones with dysmorphic growth plates, a bone phenotype that was more pronounced than that of systemic Vdr knockout (Vdr-/-) mice. Interestingly, a rescue diet that is high in calcium, phosphate, and lactose, normalized this phenotype in Vdr-/-, but not in VdrΔAF2 mice. However, osteoblast- and osteoclast-specific VdrΔAF2 mice did not recapitulate this bone phenotype indicating coactivator-independent VDR effects are more important in other organs. In addition, RNA-sequencing analysis of duodenum and kidney revealed a decreased expression of VDR target genes in systemic VdrΔAF2 mice, which was not observed in Vdr-/- mice. These genes could provide new insights in the compensatory (re)absorption of minerals that are crucial for bone homeostasis. In summary, coactivator-independent VDR effects contribute to mineral and bone homeostasis.