bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association of vitamin D levels with bone density in patients with osteoporosis
Authors: Abbasifard Mitra , Jafarizadeh Kosar , Taghipoor Mobina , Bagheri-Hosseinabadi Zahra 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Osteoporosis is a prevalent skeletal disorder characterized by reduced bone mass and deterioration of bone microarchitecture, leading to an increased risk of fractures. Given the growing recognition of the association between vitamin D (VitD) and bone health, there is a pressing need to conduct studies focusing on the level of VitD and its correlation with bone mineral density (BMD) in osteoporosis patients. This study aims to address this critical knowledge gap by exploring the association between VitD levels and bone mineral density in osteoporosis patients from an Iranian population.
Methods
We recruited 500 subjects with osteoporosis and 500 non-osteoporosis cases. The BMD of the cases was measured in the hip, femur neck, and L1-L4 spine using the Stratos device via DXA method. VitD level was measured in the serum of study participants using ELISA.
Results
VitD level was significantly lower in the osteoporosis cases (31.15 ± 9.44 nmol/L) compared to the non-osteoporosis subjects (41.65 ± 10.25 nmol/L). It was significantly higher in the male subjects compared to female patients in the osteoporosis group (P = 0.048). In both osteoporosis (P = 0.008) and non-osteoporosis (P = 0.001) subjects, the level of VitD was significantly lower in the subjects with a history of bone fracture compared to those without a history of bone fracture. The VitD level had significantly positive correlation with the BMD of hip (r = 0.44, P = 0.001), spine, and femur.
Conclusions
VitD deficiency in the osteoporosis patients is associated with BMD and bone fractures.
The Construction of Blood Vessel Organoids - A Convenient and Efficient New Technology
Authors: Zhou Zhuxin , Feng Benchi , Cheng Xiaoyuan , Zhang Xin , Yu Chaowen , Gao Yong , Chen Shiyuan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases remain among the primary causes of death in modern society, primarily due to vascular changes. Traditional research methodologies, such as cell culture, tissue samples, and animal models, have provided a foundation for studying vascular disorders. Despite these approaches, they cannot fully replicate the complexity and physiological environment of human blood vessels. Organoid technology enables the creation of organ-like constructs with similar tissue composition and functional characteristics outside the body, significantly accelerating advancements in disease research. Induced from artificial hematopoietic stem cells are three-dimensional human blood vessel organoids (BVOs) derived from extra-organ tissues, opening up new avenues for vascular research. However, the existing protocols for BVOs preparation present operational complexities, expensive inducer reagents, and intricate experimental conditions, thereby limiting their widespread adoption and utilization in routine experiments. This study proposes a novel synthesis scheme through optimizing experimental design. We directly construct human BVOs in 96-well ultra-low adsorption plates, avoiding fusion between organoid spheroids as well as the need for repeated resuspension. An additional improvement lies in the direct encapsulation of cell spheres within ultra-low adsorption 96-well plates at U-bottom, obviating the need for dissection as per the original protocol and enabling the flexible adjustment of the number of desired organoids needed for culture. Furthermore, we employed mTeSR1 culture medium in lieu of the original protocol's concentrated medium, replacing Transfection Reagents ReLeSR for EDTA and Accutase. Our scheme optimized operational procedures, lowered experimental costs, shortened preparation cycles, making the construction of BVOs more economical and efficient. This progression holds promise in promoting the widespread application of BVOs technology, fostering advancements in basic research and clinical translation.
Adherence to Mediterranean diet and food literacy among asthma adult patients as compared to healthy adults: A case control study
Authors: Hamed Dareen , Awwad Rawand , Natour Nihal , Badrasawi Manal , Rahhal Belal 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
This study was conducted to assess nutritional literacy and adherence to healthy dietary habits among patients with asthma compared to their matching controls without asthma.
Methods
This was a case-control study. The participants in both groups underwent spirometry. Sociodemographic variables, frequency of using labelled nutritional facts, dietary habits, and the extent to which daily routine habits/feelings affected eating habits were collected. The participants were also asked to answer a knowledge test on healthy diet and items in the Mediterranean lifestyle index.
Results
In this study, 65 patients with asthma and 50 matching controls were included. The FEV1/FVC was significantly lower for patients with asthma (77.7 [72.1, 83.6] vs. 90.5 [84.0, 95.0], p-value < 0.001). Significantly more patients with asthma faced difficulty buying enough food (p-value < 0.001) compared to the controls. The Newest Vital Sign (NVS) quiz showed that the patients with asthma more frequently identified the allergic components in the product after reading the label compared to the controls. Patients with asthma reported significantly higher frequent drinking skim or 1% milk (p-value = 0.016) compared to their matching controls. On the other hand, the patients with asthma reported less frequent using low fat cheese (p-value = 0.047) and using frozen yogurt instead of ice-cream (p-value = 0.044) compared to their matching controls. Similarly, the patients with asthma reported significantly higher frequent adding cheese and mayonnaise (p-value = 0.006) compared to their matching controls. patients with asthma reported significantly higher efficacy scores compared to their matching controls (p-value = 0.048). Controls were less frequently adherent to the recommended amounts of fish compared to the patients with asthma (p-value = 0.018). On the other hand, patients with asthma were less adherent to the recommended amounts of eggs compared to their matching controls (p-value = 0.001).
Conclusion
Differences in adherence to healthy dietary habits were identifying between patients with asthma and their matching controls. Future interventional studies should be conducted to increase adherence to healthy dietary habits among patients with asthma.
Hat in hand: Does fiscal dependence polarize electoral democracies?
Authors: Castro Marcelo , Cisalpino Tiago 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Does the economic dependence of small jurisdictions on central government grants lead to electoral support for the central government's incumbent party? To answer this question, we explore the discontinuities in an unconditional federal grant to Brazilian municipalities to estimate the causal effects of a larger share of grants in the local budget revenue on electoral results throughout 28 years — when three rival parties came to power in succession. Higher dependence on federal grants benefits the central government party in presidential races, whereas the coalition of parties supporting the federal incumbent gains more votes in the National Congress. Enforcing small municipalities' economic reliance on unconditional grants from the central government can be a channel of political alignment — local politicians need federal representatives aligned with the federal government to request budget amendments. Larger jurisdictions can be resilient places for the opposition, as the relative size of their governments is smaller and the average income fluctuates more.
JEL: H11, H72, H77 D72
Exercise habits and mental health among university students: A causal exploration based on instrumental variables
Authors: Zhu Lixian , Zhai Yifei , Xiong Xuan , Li Zhongquan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Exercise habits, as one of the factors enabling university students to exercise autonomously and continuously are crucial for promoting mental health. However, previous studies often overlook endogeneity issues, making it difficult to establish the causal relationship between the two. This study uses the instrumental variable approach to explore the causal relationship between exercise habits and mental health among university students.
Methods
Questionnaires were distributed to students from three universities in a certain city, collecting valid samples from 1,120 college students. The the instrumental variable approach and the ordinary least squares explore the mental health benefits of university students' exercise habits.
Results
The results from the ordinary least squares method show that exercise habits are positively correlated with university students' positive affect (β = 0.179, p < .001), life satisfaction (β = 0.134, p < .001), and self-actualization (β = 0.086, p < .001). The results from the instrumental variable approach indicate that exercise habits have a positive impact on university students' positive affect (β = 0.263, p < .001), life satisfaction (β = 0.151, p = 0.006 < .01), and self-actualization (β = 0.102, p = 0.013 < .05). Comparing the estimation results, it is evident that the ordinary least squares underestimates the psychological health benefits of exercise habits.
Conclusions
Exercise habits can promote the mental health of university students. Specifically, exercise habits can enhance university students' positive affect, and improve their life satisfaction and self-actualization. To alleviate and prevent mental health issues among university students, it is recommended that universities implement sports programs aimed ultimately at cultivating students' exercise habits.
LINC00601 promotes the progression of glioma via the p-STAT3 signaling pathway
Authors: Ma Chao , Wang Linqi , Zhang Renwu , Li Tong , Li Peng , Ding Yuxiang , Wu Dejun , Wang Yinyan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Gliomas, the most common malignant tumors of the central nervous system, primarily originate from glial cells, which support nerve cells. Due to their high malignancy and aggressiveness, gliomas frequently result in poor prognoses. Increasing evidence suggests that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have diverse roles in cancer; however, their specific functions in gliomas remain poorly understood. This study elucidates the roles and potential mechanisms of the lncRNA LINC00601 in glioma.
Methods
Bioinformatics analysis was utilized to identify the expression of LINC00601 and to perform related survival analysis. Glioma cells were transfected with a control vector small interfering RNA (si-NC) or small interfering RNA LINC00601 (si-LINC00601). Cell proliferation was evaluated using the CCK-8 assay and plate colony formation assay. Cell migration and invasion were assessed using the Transwell assay. Protein expression was detected by Western blot analysis, and lncRNA levels were measured using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR).
Results
Bioinformatics analysis revealed that LINC00601 is associated with the pathological grade and prognosis of glioma, as evidenced by data from the TCGA and CGGA databases. In vivo experiments showed that LINC00601 knockdown inhibits the proliferation, migration, and invasion of U251 and U87 cells. Based on sequencing and Western blot results, this effect is thought to be linked to changes in Phosphorylated Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (p-STAT3) expression. Additionally, in vitro knockdown of LINC00601 has been shown to inhibit glioma growth.
Conclusions
LINC00601, which facilitates glioma progression by modulating the p-STAT3 signaling pathway, could serve as a potential molecular target for glioma therapy.
High-temperature resistance and thermal insulation performance of continuous SiMOC ceramic fibers fabricated by the modified sol-gel method combined with dry spinning
Authors: Wang Meijing , Chen Jianjun , Ahmad Zahoor , Li Xiaohong , Chen Fuling 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Ceramic fibers are ideal candidates for high-temperature resistance material due to their excellent oxidation resistance, ablation resistance, and mechanical properties. In this study, precursor solutions of the continuous SiOC, and SiMOC (M = Al/Zr) ceramic fibers were prepared by a modified sol-gel method. The precursor fibers were fabricated by dry spinning, followed by pyrolysis at 800 ℃, 1000 ℃, and 1200 ℃ to yield continuous SiOC, SiAlOC, and SiZrOC ceramic fibers. The microstructure, surface morphologies, compositions, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of the continuous SiOC and SiMOC ceramic fibers were thoroughly examined by relevant characterization tools. The results showed that the continuous SiMOC fibers exhibited smooth surfaces and dense structures with effective formation of Si-O-M bonds. The measured tensile strength of fabricated continuous SiAlOC and SiZrOC ceramic fibers revealed optimum values of 139.8 MPa and 162.4 MPa, respectively, much higher than the continuous SiOC ceramic fibers (124 MPa). The continuous SiMOC fibers demonstrated remarkable resistance to high-temperature ablation and oxidation, maintaining structural integrity after exposure to a butane flame for 60 seconds and heat treatment in air at 1300 ℃ for 1 h. Additionally, the continuous SiZrOC fibers displayed excellent infrared reflectance of 10.28%, suggesting their potential as superior thermal insulation material in high-temperature applications.
Ground calibration and network of the first CATCH pathfinder
Authors: Huang Yiming , Xiao Jingyu , Tao Lian , Zhang Shuang-Nan , Yin Qian-Qing , Wang Yusa , Zijian Zhao , Zhang Chen , Zhao Qingchang , Ma Xiang , Zhao Shujie , Zhou Heng , Wen Xiangyang , Li Zhengwei , Xiong Shaolin , Zhang Juan , Bu Qingcui , Cang Jirong , Cao Dezhi , Chen Wen , Ding Siran , Dai Yanfeng , Gao Min , Gao Yang , He Huilin , Hou Shujin , Hou Dongjie , Hu Tai , Huang Guoli , Huang Yue , Jia Liping , Jin Ge , Li Dalin , Li Jinsong , Li Panping , Li Yajun , Liu Xiaojing , Ma Ruican , Men Lingling , Pan Xingyu , Qi Liqiang , Song Liming , Sun Xianfei , Tang Qingwen , Xiong Liyuan , Xu Yibo , Yang Sheng , Yang Yanji , Yang Yong , Zhang Aimei , Zhang Wei , Zhang Yifan , Zhang Yueting , Zhao Donghua , Zhao Kang , Zhu Yuxuan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The Chasing All Transients Constellation Hunters (CATCH) space mission is focused on exploring the dynamic universe via X-ray follow-up observations of various transients. The first pathfinder of the CATCH mission, CATCH-1, was launched on June 22, 2024, alongside the Space-based multiband astronomical Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM) mission. CATCH-1 is equipped with narrow-field optimized Micro Pore Optics (MPOs) featuring a large effective area and incorporates four Silicon Drift Detectors (SDDs) in its focal plane. This paper presents the system calibration results conducted before the satellite integration. Utilizing the data on the performance of the mirror and detectors obtained through the system calibration, combined with simulated data, the ground calibration database can be established. Measuring the relative positions of the mirror and detector system, which were adjusted during system calibration, allows for accurate installation of the entire satellite. Furthermore, the paper outlines the operational workflow of the ground network post-satellite launch.
Neuroprotective effects, mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential of the Kv7/KCNQ channel opener QO-83 in ischemic stroke
Authors: Zhang Huiran , Tian Yanfei , Zhang Yan , Wang Yan , Qi Jinlong , Wang Xiangyu , Yuan Yi , Chen Rong , Zhao Yupeng , Liu Chang , Zhou Najing , Liu Lanxin , Hao Han , Du Xiaona , Zhang Hailin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Ischemic stroke is a worldwide disease with high mortality and morbidity. Kv7/KCNQ channels are key modulators of neuronal excitability and microglia function, and activation of Kv7/KCNQ channels has emerged as a potential therapeutic avenue for ischemic stroke. In the present study, we focused on a new Kv7/KCNQ channel opener QO-83 on the stroke outcomes and its therapeutic potential. Transient or distal middle cerebral artery occlusion model was established with C57 mouse to evaluate the role of QO-83. Solitary dose of QO-83 contributes to the microglia inhibition and fibrotic scar mitigation post stroke. QO83 shows prominent effect on reducing infarction area, alleviating cerebral edema, maintaining blood-brain barrier integrity, and enhancing neurogenesis. Single-nucleus RNA sequencing unveils neuroprotection and specific microglial subclusters influenced by QO-83. More importantly, QO83 shows promise in enhancing survival rates with dose dependence. Notably, these protective effects extend beyond the 4–6 h post-reperfusion window. Additionally, continuous dosing of QO-83 correlates with enhanced cognition. In conclusion, this study highlights QO-83 as a protective agent against ischemic brain injury, showcasing its multifaceted effects and potential as a therapeutic strategy.
MMP-9 expression in rat pup incisor teeth is not altered by maternal hypertension or maternal atenolol treatment during pregnancy and lactation.
Authors: ELIAS Gracieli Prado , Horta Haylla de Faria , MATEUS Alanna Ramalho , PES Laura Valentina Borges , LOPES Adrielle Ouchi , CHIBA Fernando , DELBEM Alberto Carlos Botazzo , SASSAKI Kikue Takebayashi , OKAMOTO Roberta , ANTONIALI Cristina 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Hypertension alters tooth formation and Atenolol, a β-blocker, reduces the blood pressure of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) during pregnancy and lactation, and as demonstrated before, increases the microhardness of the SHR offspring's teeth. We hypothesize hypertension alters the expression of MMP-9 in dental structures of SHR offspring and that treating female SHR with atenolol prevents this alteration. This study aimed to evaluate the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-9) in incisor teeth (IT) in male offspring of SHR (30 days old) treated or untreated with Atenolol (At, 100 mg/kg/day, orally) during pregnancy and lactation. MMP-9 expression was evaluated in ameloblasts (AM), enamel matrix (EM), odontoblasts (OD), and pre-dentin (PD) of IT through immunohistochemical reactions (immunoperoxidase). Data were analyzed by Shapiro-Wilk and Kruskal-Wallis (p < 0.05), with Dunn post-test. Histological differences were not observed between IT tissues of SHR and normotensive Wistar rats. For the first time, our data showed that MMP-9 expression in specific dental structures is not altered in SHR. Atenolol treatment increased MMP-9 immunostaining in EM of Wistar rat, however, Atenolol did not alter the MMP-9 in the IT tissues of SHR. Our results suggest that neither hypertension nor atenolol treatment alters MMP-9 expression in dental tissues of SHR.
Spatial regulation of rice leaf morphology by miRNA-targets complexes during viral infection
Authors: Wang Lu , Zhang Jialin , Li Shanshan , Ren Junjie , Yang Liyuan , Ye Wenyang , Ying Xinrong , Liu Jiajun , Liu Xinzhou , M.S Salem , Ding Chengqiang , Wu Zujian , Wu Jianguo , Zhao Shanshan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: Leaf morphogenesis is essential for plant growth and development, yet the mechanisms by which plant viruses induce changes in leaf shape are not well understood. Rice ragged stunt virus (RRSV) infection induces distinct morphological abnormalities in rice leaves, including leaf tip curling and serrated margins, through unknown pathogenic mechanisms.
Results: This study reveals that key regulatory microRNAs (miR164, miR319, and miR156) and their target genes (CUC, TCP, and SPL) exhibit entirely opposite expression patterns in healthy and RRSV-infected leaves, indicating a profound impact on the leaf morphogenesis network. Significantly, the core protein OsCUC1, which typically functions by forming dimers, shows abnormal expression in the peripheral zone of the shoot apical meristem (SAM) under viral infection, leading to disruptions in leaf development. OsTCP1 was found to dynamically regulate OsCUC1 dimer formation by modifying its subcellular localization and interacting with OsSPL14 and OsSPL17, thereby influencing their regulatory functions. Genetic disruptions of OsCUC1, OsTCP1, and OsSPL14/OsSPL17 enhance the severity of RRSV infection, demonstrating their critical involvement in the viral pathogenic strategy.
Conclusions: The research uncovers a novel mechanism by which RRSV manipulates the expression and interactions of key regulatory factors, disrupting the delicate balance of the leaf morphogenesis network. These findings expand our understanding of viral manipulation of host development and provide a foundation for innovative strategies to enhance crop resilience.
Artificial Intelligence Role in Advancing the Design Education Process
Authors: Idelbi Yamen 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The current research paper explores the creative integration between science and arts, highlighting its significance in intellectual and professional fields such as architectural design, advertising design, and fashion design. This integration aims to enhance creativity and innovation among learners by providing them with tools and methodologies that develop their creative abilities, including intellectual fluency, and examining the impact of this integration on design outcomes. It also highlights the importance of updating and developing educational methods, with a focus on the role of artificial intelligence as an assistive tool in this context. The study emphasizes the necessity of human oversight to ensure a balanced and creative learning environment, as artificial intelligence is currently incapable of fully performing human tasks. In the applied section of the research, two different educational experiments were conducted in 2024 at the Architecture College, Yarmouk Private University, on a single group consisting of 15 students, selected as a purposive target sample. In the first experiment, the traditional method was employed for teaching and supervising a swimming pool hall design project, while in the second experiment, an approach based on artificial intelligence was utilized for a museum design project. Finally, the study concluded that the integration of science with the arts in design education using artificial intelligence can enhance learners' problem-solving skills, innovation, and critical thinking. It also enables them to develop new skills that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of design processes. The achievement of the aforementioned objectives was facilitated by a series of procedures using the descriptive methodology, which involves the application of certain artificial intelligence tools in the design education process, followed by their interpretation and discussion. Subsequently, the applied analytical methodology was employed in the research's practical section, where the results of the studied group were examined and analyzed using SPSS (a software specialized in statistical data analysis).