bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CircEYA3 aggravates intervertebral disc degeneration through miR-196a-5p/EBF1 axis and NF-κB signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Tianfu , Song Dehui , Li Yingxia , Li Zhengwei , Dapeng Feng 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) is one of the most frequent causes of disability. Currently, there is an incomplete understanding of the molecular mechanism that underlies the pathogenesis and progression of IDD..Regulatory non-coding RNAs, including circular RNAs (circRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in IDD progression. This study aimed to examine the role and molecular mechanism of circEYA3 in IDD.Methods In order to gain a deeper understanding of the potential regulatory effects of circRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs in IDD, all expression matrices underwent standardized analyses. The involvement of the circEYA3/miR-196a-5p/EBF1 axis in IDD was confirmed through both in vivo and in vitro experiments. The molecular mechanism of EBF1 in IDD was further elucidated through various methods, including Chip-seq analysis and Immunofluorescence staining.Results Firstly, a circRNA/miRNA/mRNA network in IDD was constructed according to the standardized analyses of all expression matrixes. We identified differential expression of transcription factor EBF1, circEYA3 and microRNA-196a-5p in normal and IDD NP tissues. Alteration of circEYA3 mediated the degradation of extracellular mechanisms (ECM), apoptosis and proliferation of NP cells (NPC). MiR-196a-5p was identified as a direct regulatory target of circEYA3 and EBF1. Functional analysis showed that circEYA3 and EBF1 modulated ECM degradation, apoptosis and proliferation of NPC, which could be reversed by miR-196a-5p. EBF1 regulated the activity of the NF-кB signaling pathway by activating the promoter region of IKKβ. Collectively, The circEYA3 modulated the progression of IDD and mediated the activity of the NF-kB signaling pathway by regulating the miR196a-5p/EBF1 axis.Conclusions Our research proposed a new molecular mechanism for the development of IDD and provided a prospective therapeutic target for IDD.
Modelling the Dynamics of a Probe in Vicinity of Eross-433 With a Fourth-Order Polynomial Density Profile
Authors: ourabi El haj El , Bennai Mohamed 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
In the present work, we study the motion of a probe in the gravitational field generated by an elongated geo-cruiser asteroid of irregular shape, which we model by an inhomogeneous mass distribution. We propose a model of inhomogeneous mass distribution with a symmetric polynomial density profile of order 4 and then establish the analytical expression of the gravitational potential generated by this segment. The Lagrangian formalism allowed us to establish the dynamic equations of motion of the probe in the gravitational field generated by this body, which we solved numerically.
Effects of Superheated Steam Pretreatment on Muscle Release and Meat Quality of Shucked Tropical Oyster (Crassostrea iredalei)
Authors: Ping Cheng Wei , Patar Azim , Foo Wong Yong , Zulfigar Siti Balqis , Liu Chengchu , Zulkurnain Musfirah 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Superheated steam (SS) is promising for thermal shucking application of oysters due to its high energy. Tropical oysters Crassostrea iredalei was probed with K-type thermocouples connected to a datalogger to monitor and record process temperatures during superheated steam pretreatment at different temperatures (170, 210, and 250 °C) and holding time (4, 5, 6 min) followed by rapid ice immersion. The combination of heating and rapid chilling on the release of oyster meat during shucking were evaluated for muscle relaxation, muscle release, meat quality, texture profile analysis, and color and optimized for maximum muscle release and meat quality. The thermal profiles of SS reveled rapid temperature increment of both muscle and oyster shell compared to conventional steam, resulting in increased relaxation of adductor muscles and degree of meat release with increase in temperature and time Texture of the oyster meat retained hardness, gumminess and chewiness of the fresh oyster at low superheated steam temperature and short exposure time. Sufficient meat detachment of more than 85% was achieved at 170 °C and 5 min with minimum meat quality changes which also lower in microbial load (4.1 x 103 CFU/g), TVB-N (11.7 mg/100 g) and final pH reduction (0.3) compared to untreated [microbial load (5.2 x 103 CFU/g), TVB-N (15.7 mg/100 g), pH reduction (0.6)] and microwave treated [microbial load (4.3 x 103 CFU/g), TVB-N (21.0 mg/100 g), pH reduction (0.5)] samples. In sum, SS is potential to minimize oysters shucking time and prolonged shelf life of shucked oysters without compromising meat quality.
Changes in perceived stress during a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) intervention predicting occupational recovery from work-related stress: a longitudinal study
Authors: Jensen Johan Høy , Flachs Esben Meulengracht , Petersen Kajsa Ugelvig , Sejbæk Camilla Sandal , Ross Lone , Eller Nanna Hurwitz , Khoury Bassam 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Purpose
The Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) group intervention is increasingly being used in clinics to alleviate stress-related symptoms. The aim was to evaluate the association between pre-post changes in levels of perceived stress during the MBSR program and occupational recovery from prolonged work-related stress. Potential moderators of the association were assessed.
Methods
This study was based on secondary analyses of pre-existing data from 450 patients commencing an MBSR program between 15 October 2015 and 2 April 2019. Data on clinical, sociodemographic, and psychosocial factors were collected via an online survey administered at baseline and the end of the MBSR program. Pre-post changes in levels of perceived stress were evaluated using Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). The outcome was stable (versus unstable) employment for at least four consecutive weeks evaluated at 26-week and 52-week follow-ups. Missing data were managed with multiple imputation. Associations were analyzed using logistic regression, with adjustment for confounding factors from clinical, occupational, and psychosocial factors in the latest held job.
Results
The average reduction in PSS-10 scores was 5.0 (SD = 5.5). Each one-point pre-post reduction on the PSS-10 scale was associated with a lower risk of full-time sick-leave at 26-week (OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.20) and 52-week follow-up (OR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.09, 1.30). None of these associations were moderated by any predictors.
Conclusion
A greater reduction in levels of perceived stress during participation in an MBSR program, predicts enhanced occupational recovery from long-term work-related stress.
Cognitive inhibition difficulties in individuals with hemiparesis: Evidence from an immersive virtual reality target-distractor salience contrast visual search serious game
Authors: Ajana Khawla , Everard Gauthier , Sorrentino Gregorio , Lejeune Thierry , Edwards Martin Gareth 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Introduction: Stroke can result in various impairments that require multidisciplinary rehabilitation. For example, preserved cognitive executive functions predict motor recovery success. Despite knowing these links, the evaluation of executive function in hemiparesis patients remains underexplored. Here, we examined whether post-stroke individuals with upper limb hemiparesis (SI:HP) had cognitive inhibition deficits using a new immersive virtual reality (IVR) serious game .
Methods: Twenty SI:HP with no known history of cognitive impairment and who were not undergoing any neuropsychological rehabilitation and twenty age-matched healthy control individuals (CI) were recruited. They performed the 6-level serious game requiring responses to spatial target presented amongst 11, 17 and 23 distractors with high versus low target-distractors saliency contrasts. Responses were made with less-effected hand for SI:HP group and dominant hand for CI. Response time (RT), and kinematic variables were measured.
Results: The SI:HP group was slower and more variable than the CI group. All participants were slower and more variable when responding to the low compared to high target-distractors saliency conditions, and when responding to targets with increased numbers of distractors. A significant interaction between task saliency and distractor number showed slower and more variable responses with increased numbers of distractors in the low saliency condition, but not in the high saliency condition. Interactions involving group and saliency for RT and CV showed that SI:HP compared to CI group showed a greater differences in responses to low versus high saliency conditions.
Conclusion: These results suggested that relative to the CI group, the SI:HP group showed cognitive inhibition impairments in the IVR serious game. As cognition plays a fundamental role in motor recovery, these results suggest a need for systematic cognitive screening of post-stroke patients.
Trial registration http://www.clinicaltrials.gov ; Unique identifier: NCT04694833, Date of registration: 11/24/2020
Association study of rs1632947, rs1233334, and rs371194629 Polymorphisms in HLA-G Gene Expression and sHLA-G with lupus
Authors: Halboot Kamil Mahdi , Haghi Mehdi , Feizi Mohammad Ali Hosseinpour , Kondori Mohammad Khalaj , Ardalan Mohammad Reza 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that has been associated with HLA-G in previous studies on immunological diseases. This study aimed to investigate the association between three HLA-G gene polymorphisms (rs1632947, rs1233334, and rs371194629) and their impact on HLA-G mRNA expression and soluble HLA-G levels in serum. Genotyping was performed using TaqMan probe PCR. RNA extraction, reverse transcription PCR, and real-time PCR assay were conducted to assess the expression of microRNAs in serum and tissue samples. Soluble HLA-G was mesurede using ELISA in serum. Statistical analyses were performed using GraphPad Prism software with a significance level of p-value of 0.05. Results show a significant difference in the frequency of the G allele for two 5' untranslated region (UTR) polymorphisms of the HLA-G gene (rs1632947 and rs1233334) located at position − 964 and − 725, respectively, between the lupus patients and controls, with p-values of 0.009 and 0.040, respectively. In addition, the study identified the 14 bp insertion allele of the rs371194629 polymorphism located in the 3' UTR of the gene as a risk factor for lupus, with a p-value of 0.001. Our results also show that lupus-related alleles may increase the risk of developing the disease by upregulating the expression of HLA-G and increasing soluble HLA-G levels in serum. The findings of the study suggest that the identified genetic variants may play a role in the development of lupus and could be useful in identifying individuals at risk for the disease. These results are important for advancing our understanding of the genetic basis of lupus and may have implications for the development of new treatments and diagnostic tools for the disease.
An epigenetic clock for gestational age based on human umbilical vein endothelial cells from a diverse population of newborns
Authors: Peng Gang , Sosnowski David W. , Murphy Susan K. , Johnson Sara B. , Skaar David , Schleif William S. , Hernandez Raquel G. , Monforte Hector , Zhao Hongyu , Hoyo Cathrine 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
Epigenetic clocks are emerging as a useful tool in many areas of research. Many epigenetic clocks have been developed for adults; however, there are fewer clocks focused on newborns and most are trained using blood from European ancestry populations. In this study, we built an epigenetic clock based on primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells from a racially and ethnically diverse population.
Results
Using human umbilical vein endothelial cell [HUVEC]-derived DNA, we calculated epigenetic gestational age using 83 CpG sites selected through elastic net regression. In this study with newborns from different racial/ethnic identities, epigenetic gestational age and clinical gestational age were more highly correlated (r = 0.85), than epigenetic clocks built from adult and other pediatric populations. The correlation was also higher than clocks based on blood samples from newborns with European ancestry. We also found that birth weight was positively associated with epigenetic gestational age acceleration (EGAA), while NICU admission was associated with lower EGAA. Newborns self-identified as Hispanic or non-Hispanic Black had lower EGAA than self-identified as non-Hispanic White.
Conclusions
Epigenetic gestational age can be used to estimate clinical gestational age and may help index neonatal development. Caution should be exercised when using epigenetic clocks built from adults with children, especially newborns. We highlight the importance of cell type-specific epigenetic clocks and general pan tissue epigenetic clocks derived from a large racially and ethnically diverse population.
Caregiving is women's work: unequal distribution of unpaid housework in Chile during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Zapata-Román Gabriela , Energici María Alejandra , Alarcón Samanta , Moller Francisco 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic amplified the burden of household domestic and caregiving responsibilities unevenly for women. Confinement measures and the mandatory closure of nurseries and schools replaced in-classroom education with online education. For many households, working dynamics transitioned into remote or so-called ‘hybrid’ work, and suddenly, all household members were spending 24 hours a day at home. Using data from the first National Survey of Unpaid Home Care (ENCIC), this article offers an in-depth analysis of the gender distribution of unpaid domestic and care work within Chilean households during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings confirm an overload of unpaid work for women during the pandemic: they are the primary caregivers of children, teenagers and dependent people in over 70% of cases, and it is women who take over most domestic tasks at home, particularly the most time-consuming ones and those considered less pleasant by literature. Men tend to participate in shorter and simpler activities and tasks that involve leaving the house. There is no family composition where women have a higher probability than men to negotiate a lower domestic workload, not even when women are household heads. The gender disparity is even more pronounced in nuclear households, where women are 7.4 times more likely than their male partners to be responsible for household tasks and 2.9 times more likely to be in charge of caregiving.
JEL Codes: B54, D13, J22, O54
Design and finite element analysis of cross-screw fixation strategy for Sanders IIB calcaneal fractures
Authors: Jiang Daixiang , Lu Hui , Liu Dingxi , Xiong Hanlin , Cheng Qian , Yu Yue , Cao Xiaolu , Liu Rong 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
Clinicians are increasingly opting for minimally invasive cross screw fixation (CSF) in the treatment of non-severely comminuted calcaneal fractures. However, there is a dearth of design and theoretical guidance regarding the fixation strategy for calcaneal fractures using minimally invasive CSF in clinical practice. The objective of this study is to design a fixation strategy for Sanders type II B calcaneal fractures based on commonly used screw placement methods in clinical practice. Furthermore, we aim to compare the biomechanical stability of different strategies through finite element analysis. The findings of this study will serve as a valuable reference for clinical surgical screw placement.
Methods
To create a Sanders type II B calcaneal fracture model, we utilized the most up-to-date research on calcaneal fracture heatmaps. By incorporating the anatomical characteristics of the calcaneus and commonly employed minimally invasive screw placement methods in clinical practice, we developed three-dimensional digital designs of CSF strategies on this model. Subsequently, biomechanical experiments were conducted on each strategy within a virtual environment using finite element techniques. The stress distribution, stress magnitude, and displacement of the fracture model were carefully observed and analyzed.
Results
When subjected to identical loading conditions, Strategy 4 demonstrated smaller maximum displacements of the calcaneus, screw, and fracture gap compared to the other strategies. Among all the strategies, Strategy 5 exhibited the highest maximum stress in the calcaneus, while Strategy 6 had the highest maximum stress in the screw. The three-dimensional digital designs of CSF strategies were developed on this model by integrating the anatomical characteristics of the calcaneus and commonly utilized minimally invasive screw placement methods in clinical practice.
Conclusion
Our designed Strategy 4 involved the insertion of dual longitudinal screws in a parallel manner from the superior aspect of the calcaneal tuberosity. Additionally, two transverse screws were utilized to fix the articular facet fragment, and one transverse screw was employed to secure the lateral wall of the calcaneus. This fixation method demonstrated superior fixation strength and reduced stress concentration compared to the other strategies. As a result, Strategy 4 serves as a valuable reference for surgeons performing actual clinical screw placement during surgical procedures.
Increase of ASH1L Expression Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development and Affects the Prognosis of Liver Transplantation Patients
Authors: Yu Xinghui , Zhang Weiqi , Xiang Wen , Ma Yongqiang , Liu Siyuan , Li Zhaoxian , Tan Yuying , Xie Yan , Zhang Li , Jiang Wentao 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent malignancy worldwide, characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates. Risk factors associated with HCC include cirrhosis, alcohol abuse, metabolic syndrome, hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Unfortunately, the cure rate of HCC remains low, primarily due to difficulties in early-stage detection. The identification of effective therapeutic targets and novel biomarkers is thus imperative. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying HCC development remain elusive. Recent studies have indicated a significant correlation between DNA methylation and cancer development. Notably, bioinformatics analysis of human patient databases has revealed amplification of ASH1L, a histone methyltransferase and a homolog of drosophila ASH1, in tumor tissues. Alterations in ASH1L expression have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various diseases, including prostate cancer, lung cancer, uterine cancer, and leukemia. Its molecular mechanism and cellular functions are undergone extensive studies. Specifically, investigating the role of ASH1L in HCC development represents a promising avenue for understanding the underlying mechanisms. Building upon these backgrounds and considerations, this study aims to elucidate the detrimental effects of ASH1L on the prognosis of HCC patients following liver transplantation, as well as the potential underlying mechanisms. With using various approaches, ASH1L was found to be strongly correlated with HCC. Furthermore, ASH1L shows promise as a potential biomarker for early detection, prognosis prediction, and personalized treatment strategies for HCC.
Dynamic Changes and Effects of H2S, IGF-1, and GH in The Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Wu Xin , Kong Yang , Zou Peng , Wang Yanbin , Zhang Hongtao , Cui Guangqiang , Zhu Wei , Chen Hongguang 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background: The goal of this investigation was to examine the expression changes of H2S, IGF-1, and GH after TBI and to detect their roles after TBI.
Methods: In this study, we first collected cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma from TBI patients at different times after injury and evaluated the concentrations of H2S, IGF-1, and GH. In vitro TBI conditions were stimulated by using HT22 hippocampal neurons and LPS-induced BV2 microglia cells. Models of TBI were established using controlled cortical impact (CCI) in vivo. CCK-8 assay, qRT-PCR and ELISA were used. Western blot was performed to assess the expression of CBS, CSE, IGF-1, and GHRH. Moreover, the recovery of TBI mice was evaluated for behavioral function by applying the modified Neurological Severity Score (mNSS), the Rotarod test, and the Morris water maze.
Results: We discovered that serum H2S, CSF H2S, and serum IGF-1 concentrations were all adversely associated with the severity of the TBI, while the concentrations of IGF-1 and GH in CSF and GH in the serum were all positively related to TBI severity. Experiments in vitro and in vivo indicated that activated-BV2 cells enhanced the production of inflammatory cytokines and suppressed the cell viability of HT22 cells. In addition, treatment with NaHS, IGF-1, and GH alleviated the activation of BV2 cells. Furthermore, NaHS, IGF-1, and GH treatment alleviated motor function deficits after TBI.
Conclusion: This study gives novel information on the functions of H2S, IGF-1, and GH in TBI.
Dimethyl fumarate treatment in relapsing remitting MS changes the inflammatory CSF protein profile by a prominent decrease in T-helper 1 immunity
Authors: Hojjati Sara , Ernerudh Jan , Vrethem Magnus , Mellergård Johan , Raffetseder Johanna 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Background
Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is a widely used treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS), nevertheless, the precise mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. Notably, limited attention has been given to investigating alterations in the protein composition of plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Analyzing the modifications in inflammation- and neurodegeneration-associated proteins in the CSF and plasma of persons with MS (pwMS) undergoing DMF treatment, is a potential tool to unravel the impacts of DMF treatment and monitor the response to this therapy.
Methods
Using the proximity extension assay (PEA), a technique that provides high sensitivity and specificity, we measured the levels of 182 inflammation and neuro-associated proteins in paired samples of plasma (n=28) and cerebrospinal fluid (n=12) of pwMS both before and after one year of treatment with DMF. Disease activity and progression were evaluated through clinical examination and magnetic resonance imaging. To uncover drug-induced effects on the protein profile and identify potential biomarkers for predicting treatment response, we employed non-parametric statistical tests, STRING network analysis, and logistic regression models.
Results
Levels of 21 plasma proteins and 10 CSF proteins significantly changed during one year of treatment with DMF (p<0.01). T-helper 1 (Th1)-associated proteins (CXCL10, CXCL11, granzyme A, IL-12p70, lymphotoxin-alpha) consistently decreased in CSF, while IL-7 increased, in line with a reduction in the pro-inflammatory and presumed disease promoting Th1 immunity. The changes in plasma protein levels did not follow the same pattern as in CSF. Levels of 10 proteins in CSF and 1 protein in plasma differed among responders and non-responders (p<0.01), and logistic regression models showed proteins (including plexins and neurotrophins) as potential biomarker candidates for prediction of treatment response.
Conclusions
DMF treatment induced prominent changes of CSF protein levels, with a consistent decrease in Th1-associated pro-inflammatory proteins. Several proteins in CSF related to neurodegeneration showed a potential to predict response to treatment, suggesting the use of protein biomarkers as a tool for personalized medicine.