bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Microstructural Brain Abnormalities in HIV+ Individuals with or without Chronic Marijuana Use
Authors: Wang Hannah Alexa , Liang Huajun , Ernst Thomas Michael , Oishi Kenichi , Chang Linda 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Objective
Cognitive deficits and microstructural brain abnormalities are well documented in HIV-positive individuals (HIV+). This study evaluated whether chronic marijuana (MJ) use contributes to additional cognitive deficits or brain microstructural abnormalities that may reflect neuroinflammation or neuronal injury in HIV+.
Method:
Using a 2 × 2 design, 44 HIV + participants, [23 minimal/no MJ users (HIV+), 21 chronic active MJ users (HIV + MJ)], were compared to 46 seronegative participants [24 minimal/no MJ users (SN) and 22 chronic MJ users (SN + MJ)] on neuropsychological performance (7 cognitive domains) and diffusion tensor imaging metrics, using an automated atlas to assess fractional anisotropy (FA), axial (AD), radial (RD), and mean (MD) diffusivities, in 18 cortical and 4 subcortical brain regions,
Results
Compared to SN and regardless of MJ use, the HIV + group had lower FA and higher diffusivities in multiple white matter and subcortical structures (p = 0.001–0.050), as well as poorer cognition in Fluency (p = 0.039), Attention / Working Memory (p = 0.009), Learning (p = 0.015) and Memory (p = 0.028). Regardless of HIV-serostatus, MJ users had lower AD in uncinate fasciculus (p = 0.016) but similar cognition as non-users. No additive or interactive effects were found between HIV-serostatus and MJ use on DTI metrics or cognitive function. Furthermore, higher MD in thalamus predicted poorer fluency, learning and memory in HIV + participants, while higher RD in posterior corona radiata predicted poorer learning in MJ users. Lower FA in the anterior internal capsule also predicted worse attention/working memory in all except SN subjects. Lastly, MJ users with or without HIV-infection showed greater than normal age-dependent FA declines in superior longitudinal fasciculus, external capsule and globus pallidus.
Studies of rice Hd1 haplotypes worldwide reveal adaptation of flowering time to different environments
Authors: Wu Cheng-Chieh , Wei Fu-Jin , Chiou Wan-Yi , Tsai Yuan-Ching , Wu Hshin-Ping , Gotarkar Dhananjay , Quynh Ha Thi , Trung Nguyen Quoc , Lai Ming-Hsin , Hsing Yue-Ie Caroline 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background

Plant domestication/adaptation is a good model for evo-devo studies. Mutations that caused morphological and physiological change, followed by human selection, finally led to improvement of phenotypes suitable for different kinds of environments. Originating from the Yangtze Valley, rice is a facultative short-day plant. Rice spread southward thousands of years ago, but one of the new traits beneficial to crop yield would be loss of sensitivity to photoperiod. That is, if rice could be cultivated 2 or 3 seasons each year, the production would at least double.
Results

We used the sequence information for Heading date 1 (Hd1) gene to reveal the relationship of sequence changes and flowering phenotypes of rice in different regions. Seven loss-of-function hd1 haplotypes were reported previously. By data mining the genome sequencing information in the public domain, we discovered another 3 types. Allele haplotypes are present in sub-tropical and tropical regions, which indicates human selection. Two of these alleles, types 7 and 13, must have occurred early in southern Asia and then were introgressed in many local landraces. According to the rice 3K database, more than one-third of the world’s rice accessions contain these 2 loss-of-function haplotypes. We also demonstrate that these haplotypes are present in weedy rice populations, again indicating that these alleles were present in rice cultivation for long time. In comparing the wild rice sequence information, these loss-of-function haplotypes occurred in agro but were not from wild rice.
Conclusion

In the current study, we analyzed how sequence changes in a rice flowering-control gene occurred, were selected and were retained during rice cultivation. Many loss-of-function hd1 alleles have existed in sub-tropical and tropical Asia rice-growing areas for a long time. Some of these haplotypes were present locally, but 2, types 7 and 13, were spread in many regions and are now included in most of the modern varieties in southern Asia.
Exosomal LncRNA–NEAT1 derived from MIF-treated mesenchymal stem cells protected against doxorubicin-induced cardiac senescence through sponging miR-221-3p
Authors: Zhuang Lei , Xia Wenzheng , Chen Didi , Ye Yijia , Hu Tingting , Li Shiting , Hou Meng 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
AIMS: The chemotherapy drug doxorubicin (Dox) is widely used for treating a variety of cancers. However, its high cardiotoxicity hampered its clinical use. Exosomes derived from stem cells showed a therapeutic effect against Dox-induced cardiomyopathy (DIC). Previous studies reported that exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) pretreated with macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) (exosomeMIF) showed a cardioprotective effect through modulating long noncoding RNAs/microRNAs (lncRNAs/miRs). This study aimed to investigate the role of exosomeMIF in the treatment of DIC. METHODS AND RESULTS: Exosomes were isolated from control MSCs (exosome) and MIF-pretreated MSCs (exosomeMIF). Regulatory lncRNAs activated by MIF pretreatment were explored using genomics approaches. Fluorescence-labeled exosomes were tracked in vitro by fluorescence imaging. In vivo and in vitro, miR-221-3p mimic transfection enforced miR-221-3p overexpression, and senescence-associated β-galactosidase assay was applied to test cellular senescence. Exosomal delivering LncRNA-NEAT1 induced therapeutic effect in vivo was confirmed by echocardiography. It demonstrated that exosomesMIF recovered the cardiac function and exerted the anti-senescent effect through LncRNA–NEAT1 transfer against Dox. TargetScan and luciferase assay showed that miR-221-3p targeted the Sirt2 3'-untranslated region. Silencing LncRNA–NEAT1 in MSCs, miR-221-3p overexpression or Sirt2 silencing in cardiomyocytes ruined the exosomeMIF-induced anti-senescent effect against Dox. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicated exosomeMIF serving as a promising anti-senescent effector against Dox-induced cardiotoxicity through LncRNA–NEAT1 transfer, thus sponging miR-221-3p and leading to Sirt2 activation. The study proposed that exosomeMIF might have the potential to serve as a cardioprotective therapeutic agent during cancer chemotherapy.
A qualitative study of perceived barriers to hepatitis C care among people who did not attend appointments in the non-urban U.S. South
Authors: Sherbuk Jacqueline , Tabackman Alexa , McManus Kathleen A , Knick Terry , Schexnayder Julie , Flickinger Tabor E , Dillingham Rebecca 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background
Most people diagnosed with Hepatitis C virus (HCV) have not linked to care, despite the availability of safe and effective treatment. We aimed to understand why people diagnosed with HCV have not pursued care in the non-urban southern United States.
Methods
We conducted a demographic survey and semi-structured interview with participants referred to an HCV clinic who did not attend an appointment between 2014 and 2018. Our clinic is located in a non-urban region of Virginia at a university hospital. Qualitative data collection was guided by the Health Belief Model (HBM). Data was analyzed using qualitative content analysis to identify the key factors influencing patient perceptions regarding HCV and pursuit of care.
Results
Over half of previously referred patients could not be reached by phone. Eleven participants enrolled, including 7 men and 4 women. Common barriers to care included being uninsured (n = 4), having unreliable transportation (n = 5), unstable housing (n = 4), and drug use in the past year (n = 5). Participants demonstrated good knowledge of HCV disease, complications, and treatment. On qualitative analysis, final themes emerged from within and between HBM constructs. Emerging themes influencing patient perceptions included (1) structural barriers, (2) stigma, (3) prior experiences of HCV disease and treatment, (4) discordance between the recognized severity of HCV and expected impacts on one’s own health, and (5) patient-provider relationship. Substance use was not identified to be a barrier to care.
Conclusions
Participants perceived individual and structural barriers to linking to care. A strong HCV knowledge base was not sufficient to motivate pursuit of care. Efforts to improve linkage to care must address barriers at multiple levels, and system-level changes are needed. As the majority of previously referred patients could not be contacted by phone, current approaches to patient engagement are not effective for reaching these populations. Expansion of HCV care to primary care settings with an established patient-provider relationship or co-located treatment within substance use treatment programs may serve to increase access to HCV treatment.
Exosomes Derived from Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Alleviate Psoriasis-like Skin Inflammation
Authors: Zhang Yuli , Yan Jianjun , Li Zhengjun , Sun Qing 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background Exosomes are nanovesicles secreted from endosomal membranes. The immunomodulatory effect of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is mediated by MSCs-derived exosomes (MSCs-exo). MSCs-exo are attractive candidates for use in cell therapy for several inflammatory diseases including psoriasis. We investigated whether exosomes derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hucMSCs-Exo) ameliorate psoriasis-like skin inflammation via the IL-23/IL-17 axis. Methods HucMSCs-Exo were isolated by differential ultracentrifugation. Imiquimod (IMQ)-induced mice were subcutaneously injected with hucMSCs-Exo on days 0, 2 and 4. H&E staining and Western blotting were performed, and tissue histopathology and STAT3/p-STAT3, IL-17, IL-23, and CCL20 levels were assessed. HucMSCs-Exo were co-cultured with dendritic cells (DCs) and HaCat cells in vitro. Western blotting, flow cytometry and ELISAs were then performed to measure STAT3/p-STAT3, IL-17, IL-23, and CCL20 levels. Results Subcutaneous injection of hucMSCs-Exo significantly ameliorated symptoms and diminished the clinical and pathological scores of psoriasis in IMQ-induced mice. In MSCs-exo-treated mice, STAT3/p-STAT3, IL-17, IL-23 and CCL20 levels were decreased. HucMSCs-Exo co-cultured in vitro with DCs suppressed DC maturation and activation and inhibited IL-23 secretion. HucMSCs-Exo co-cultured with HaCat cells reduced STAT3/p-STAT3, IL-17, IL-23, and CCL20 levels. Conclusions HucMSCs-Exo can effectively ameliorate psoriasis-like skin inflammation in mice via the IL-23/IL-17 axis. Furthermore, hucMSCs-Exo exhibit immunomodulatory potency by inhibiting the maturation and activation of DCs and blocking the positive feedback effect of IL-17 on keratinocytes. Our data offer a novel therapeutic approach for chronic inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis by leveraging the immunomodulatory effects of hucMSCs-Exo.
Natural HDAC-1/8 inhibitor Baicalein exerts therapeutic effect in CBF-AML
Authors: Yu Xiaoxuan , Li Hui , Hu Po , Qing Yingjie , Wang Xiangyuan , Zhu Mengyuan , Wang Hongzheng , Wang Zhanyu , Xu Jingyan , Guo Qinglong , Hui Hui 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: Although targeting HDACs may be an effective strategy for CBF-AML harboring t(8;21) or inv(16), HDAC inhibitors are reported to be limited by drug-resistant characteristic. Our purpose is to evaluate the anti-leukemia effects of Baicalein on CBF-AML and clarify its underlying mechanism.Methods: Enzyme activity assay was used to measure the activity inhibition of HDACs. Rhodamine123 and RT-qPCR were employed to evaluate the distribution of drugs and the change of ABC transporter genes. CCK8, Annexin V/PI and FACS staining certified the growth and differentiation effects of Baicalein. Duolink and IP assay assessed the interaction between HDAC-1 and ubiquitin, HSP90 and AML1-ETO, Ac-p53 and CBFβ-MYH11. AML cells-bearing NOD/SCID mice models were used to evaluate the anti-leukemic efficiency and potential mechanism of Baicalein in vivo. Results: Baicalein showed HDAC-1/8 inhibition to trigger growth suppression and differentiation induction of AML cells. Although the inhibitory action on HDAC-1 was mild, Baicalein could induce the degradation of HDAC-1 via ubiquitin proteasome pathway, thereby up-regulating the acetylation of Histone H3 without promoting ABC transporter genes expression. Meanwhile, Baicalein increased the acetylation of HSP90 and lessened its connection to AML1/ETO, consequently leading to degradation of AML1-ETO in t(8;21) AML. In inv(16) AML, Baicalein possessed the capacity of apoptosis induction accompanied with p53-mediated apoptosis genes expression. Moreover, Moreover, CBFβ-MYH11-bound p53 acetylation was restored via HDAC-8 inhibition induced by Baicalein contributing the diminishing of survival of CD34+ inv(16) AML cells.Conclusions: These findings improve the understanding of the epigenetic regulation of Baicalein, and warrant therapeutic potential of Baicalein for CBF-AML.
The Validity of Salivary Gland Scintigraphy in Sjögren’s Syndrome Diagnosis: Comparison of Visual and Excretion Fraction Analysis
Authors: García-González María , Soto María Jesús González , Rodríguez-Bethencourt María Ángeles Gómez , Ferraz-Amaro Iván 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Introduction. The diagnostic value of salivary gland scintigraphy (SGS) in Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is not completely known. Whether qualitative or quantitative methods of SGS interpretation are the most appropriate remains a matter of debate. We sought to determine whether the diagnostic discrimination of quantitative excretion fraction is higher compared to SGS qualitative visual analysis in a cohort of subjects with suspected SS. Materials and methods. Cross-sectional study that encompassed 204 subjects who underwent SGS for potential SS diagnosis. Based on clinical judgement, three groups were established: SS, non-SS autoimmune diseases (AID non-SS) and neither SS nor other AID (non-AID). In addition, American-European Consensus Group -AECG- and American College of Rheumatology -ACR- criteria were applied. Qualitative diagnosis through visual analysis -normal vs. abnormal and Schall’s classification grade- and semiquantitative and quantitative excretion fraction (EF%) scores were established following SGS assessment. The diagnostic discrimination of the different SGS scores for the various SS diagnostic modalities (clinical judgement and AECG and ACR criteria) was compared through their areas under the curve (AUC). Results. Most SGS parameters were significantly associated with SS-related clinical and laboratory features. Schall’s grade ≥ III was significantly more frequent in SS than in non-SS patients. In general, EF%-derived parameters did not show significant differences between groups. AUC of Schall’s classification reached statistical significance in its diagnostic discrimination for SS clinical judgement (AUC 0.704 [95%CI 0.597–0.811], p = 0.000) and AECG criteria (AUC 0.764 [95%CI 0.641–0.886], p = 0.000). Similarly the EF% submandibular mean (AUC 0.737 [95%CI 0.546–0.931] p = 0.032) was significantly associated with SS diagnosis through ACR criteria. However, AUC comparisons between qualitative and quantitative methods did not yield significant values. Conclusion. SS diagnostic discrimination of EF% is not superior to that obtained by qualitative visual analysis.
Virtual Reality in Pain Therapy: A Requirements Analysis for Older Adults with Chronic Back Pain
Authors: Stamm Oskar , Dahms Rebecca , Müller-Werdan Ursula 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background Today immersive environments such as Virtual Reality (VR) offer new opportunities for serious gaming in exercise therapy and psychoeducation. Chronic back pain (CBP) patients could benefit from exergames in VR. The requirements in older CBP patient for a VR pain therapy have not yet been determined in studies. The aim of the study was to perform a requirements analysis for the user group of geriatric patients with CBP for a VR exergame. The objective was to find out the expectations, desires, preferences and barriers in order to collect them as requirements for this vulnerable group and to determine frameworks of therapy by physiotherapists and psychotherapists.Methods We conducted a requirements analysis through semi-structured interviews with 10 elderly participants with CBP. Furthermore, two focus groups were conducted with three physiotherapists and two psychotherapists to determine frameworks of therapy programs for the target group. The qualitative data were transcribed and examined through a structuring content analysis. Subsequently, the results of the analysis were prioritized by all participants of the studyResults The results of the requirements analysis indicate mandatory requirements for the overall system, hardware, software and gamification elements. The key requirements were target-group-specific applications of the VR exergame through e.g. individual briefing, user-friendly handling, inclusion of movement limitations, presentation of everyday scenarios in combination with biofeedback, age-appropriate feedback through praise and awards and a maximum exercise duration of 30 min and 15 min of relaxation.Conclusion It should be possible to use the determined requirements productively to create user-friendly VR exergames that motivate elderly chronic back pain patients to perform exercises regularly. The study is registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS-ID: DRKS00015294 12.10.2018)
Regression Model for the Prediction of Risk of Pelvic Floor Muscle Weakness among Older Adults
Authors: Karkare Prajakta , Mohapatra Sidhiprada , N Girish 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background

Pelvic floor muscle (PFM) weakness is a major cause of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) among women. Though PFD is a major disabling condition among institutionalized older women, PFM strength (PFMS) evaluation is not included in regular geriatric assessment because of privacy issues, availability of perineometer, and lack of trained therapists. Hence there is a need to develop an alternative method that can address the issues related to present PFMS evaluation.

Methods

After obtaining ethical clearance, the institutionalized older women were screened for inclusion criteria and informed consent was taken in this case-control study. PFM strength as a dependent variable was assessed by using the peritron perineometer. Independent variables assessed were age, parity, BMI, menopausal period, abdominal surgical history, core, and peripheral muscle strength, functional comorbidity index consisting of 18 comorbidities and functional mobility.

Results

One hundred and two institutionalised older women were included in this study. Among the variables considered, age (p = 0.005), years post menopause (p = 0.040), pelvic surgery (p = 0.050), disc disorders (p = 0.047), right hip adductor strength (p = 0.039), left hip adductor strength (p = 0.016), left hip external rotator strength (p = 0.045) and left hip extensor strength (p = 0.017) showed a statistically significant odds ratio (r 2 = 0.484; p ≤ 0.05) and hence they were considered for developing the model.

Conclusion

A regression model for determining PFM weakness among institutionalized older women has been developed, which may be used as a simple and easy to administer method.
Role of HPV 16 variants among cervical samples from Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Silva Rodrigo Lopes da , Batista Zulmira da Silva , Bastos Gerusinete Rodrigues , Cunha Ana Paula Almeida , Figueiredo Fábio Vidal , de Castro Lailson Oliveira , Pereira Liwerbeth dos Anjos , Silva Marcos Antonio Custódio Neto da , Vidal Flávia Castello Branco , Barros Maria Claudene , Fraga Elmary da Costa , Brito Luciane Maria Oliveira , Barbosa Maria do Carmo Lacerda , Moreira Miguel Ângelo Martins , Nascimento Maria do Desterro Soares Brandão 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer affecting women globally. In Brazil, it is the third most frequent type of cancer in women and HPV is present in approximately 90% of cases. Evidence suggests that variants of HPV 16 can interfere biologically and etiologically during the development of cervical cancer. Methods: Cervix tumor fragments were collected, their DNA was extracted, and nested PCR was used to detect HPV. Positive samples were sequenced to determine the viral genotype. To characterize the HPV 16 strains, positive samples PCR was used to amplify the LCR and E6 regions of the HPV 16 virus. Results: Data from 120 patients with cervical cancer were analyzed. Most women were between 41 and 54 years of age, had schooling until primary school, a family income between 1 and 2 times the minimum wage and were married/in a consensual union. There was no statistically significant association between HPV or socio-demographic variables and risk factors for cervical cancer (P < 0.05). HPV was present in 88 women (73%). The most prevalent types were HPV 16 (47/54%), HPV 18 (12/13.8%), HPV 35 (6/6.9%) and HPV 45 (5/5.7%). Of the 47 HPV 16 positive cases, variant A (49%) was present in 23 samples, followed by variant D in 20 cases (43%), and variants B and C in 2 cases each (4%).The most prevalent histological type of HPV 16 tumors was epidermoid carcinoma, followed by adenocarcinoma. There was a statistically significant association between HPV 16 variants and the tumors’ histological types (P < 0.001).Conclusions: Knowledge of HPV 16 variants will provide data on their influence on the pathological and oncogenic aspects of cervical lesions.
Predictive factors of marital satisfaction in women during postpartum period: The PATH model
Authors: Youseflu Samaneh , Niroomand Soudabeh 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: This study aimed to test a conceptual model considering the interrelated role of anxiety, body satisfaction, breastfeeding, SF, type of personality, income, education, history of infertility on women’s marital satisfaction (MS). Also test the mediating role of SF, anxiety, and breastfeeding.Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 447 women after childbirth meeting the inclusion criteria were enrolled from public health clinics. All mothers were selected in 6 month childbirth period. The female SF index (FSFI), Body Self-Relation Questionnaire (BSRQ), the Enrich Marital Satisfaction and the NEO Personality Inventory (NEO PI-R) were used. Data was analyzed using descriptive test, and Path analysis. Results: We found that SF, anxiety, the level of education, income, and extraversion personality have direct effects on MS. Anxious women have worse SF and MS. In our study, SF, breastfeeding, and anxiety were the three major mediators. Body satisfaction, extraversion personality, and lower level of anxiety through improvement in SF have an indirect effect on MS. A higher level of education has a positive direct effect and indirect effect pathway from breastfeeding on MS. Furthermore, breastfeeding is more observed among educated, and infertile women that cause reduce the women's anxiety level, and this way improves SF and also MS (P<0.05). Conclusion: This study revealed that the women who had higher levels of body dissatisfaction, sexual dysfunction, and anxiety have increased the possibility of MS problems 6-month postpartum. Given these relationships, it is recommended to health professionals to educate women about body changes during postpartum and to find ways to improve mothers' MS.