bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Huxin Formula Inhibits Oxidized low-Density Lipoprotein-Induced Foam Cell Formation in THP-1 Macrophages via the LOX-1/NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Zeng Qiaohuang , Ou Xiaomin , Cai Jing , Lan Taohua , Lu Weihui , Jiang Wei 
Published: September 2024

Background Macrophage-derived foam cells are essential in the progression of atherosclerosis (AS). Based on our previous study, the Huxin Formula (HXF), a traditional Chinese medicine formula, demonstrates potential in anti-atherosclerosis. Nevertheless, it is still unknown how HXF affects the formation of foam cells derived from THP-1 macrophages. Purpose This research aims to examine the preventive role of HXF in the development of foam cells and its underlying molecular mechanism. Methods THP-1 derived macrophages and THP-1 cells overexpressing LOX-1 (LV-OLR1) were exposed to ox-LDL to establish foam cell models, and then treated with HXF. Meantime, Oil red O staining was used to detect lipid droplet production. ELISA kit was performed to measure intracellular levels of IL-6 and TGF-β. RT-qPCR and Western Blot were then utilized to determine the LOX-1 and NF-κB mRNA/protein levels. Results The findings indicated that HXF treatment potently reduced the lipid accumulation, downregulated IL-6 levels and upregulated TGF-β levels. However, this impact was almost reversed when LOX-1 was overexpressed in THP-1 cells stimulated with ox-LDL. Moreover, THP-1 were treated with HXF markedly reduced the levels of LOX-1 and NF-κB mRNA/protein, whereas overexpressing LOX-1 significantly reversed this effect. Conclusion HXF reduced the formation of foam cell in ox-LDL-stimulated THP-1 macrophages via inhibiting lipid accumulation and inflammation through regulating the LOX-1/ NF-κB pathway. These present findings further indicate a potential beneficial role of HXF in ameliorating atherosclerosis and foam cell formation, while provide a novel potential therapeutic strategy for preventing atherosclerosis.
Effect of Repetitive Pitching on the Control of Lower Extremity Joints and Center of Mass in Collegiate Baseball Pitchers
Authors: Wang Shiu-Min , Huang Tsun-Shun , Chen Szu-Hua , Wu Yuh-Renn , Hsu Wei-Li 
Published: September 2024

Background: Repetitive motion can alter joint angles and subsequently affect the control of the center of mass (CoM). While the CoM has been studied as a fatigue indicator in various sports, the control of the whole-body CoM during repetitive pitching in baseball pitchers has not been examined. This study aimed to investigate changes in lower-extremity joint angles and CoM control in collegiate baseball pitchers after repetitive pitching. Hypothesis: Baseball pitchers would exhibit significant increase in lower-extremity flexion angles, CoM position, and CoM variability after repetitive pitching. Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: A total of 23 pitchers from the Collegiate Baseball League were recruited. A motion analysis system was employed to assess lower-extremity joint angles and CoM position during the simulated game, while pitching accuracy and velocity were also recorded. Results: The results revealed a significant forward and downward shift in CoM position ( P < 0.05), along with increased CoM variability in all directions ( P < 0.05) after the simulated game. Furthermore, there was a significant increase in flexion angles of the knee and hip ( P < 0.05); however, pitching velocity and accuracy did not demonstrate significant changes. Conclusion: Repetitive pitching leads to kinematic changes that should be monitored to prevent sports injuries. Clinical Relevance: Baseball pitchers have the ability to modify the control of their CoM and angles of their lower-extremity joints to sustain their pitching performance. It is crucial to monitor compensatory strategies closely to avoid shoulder and elbow injuries among these pitchers.
Associations of Sport Participation and Training Volume With Overuse Injuries in Japanese Male Youth Soccer Players: Implications for Early Sport Specialization
Authors: Nakaichi Naoto , Sugimoto Dai , Numa Daisuke , Kotani Ryosuke , Nakamura Hayato , Akiyama Kei , Hirose Norikazu 
Published: September 2024

Background: Sport specialization is associated with increased risk of overuse injuries. However, the effects of sport specialization on the risk of overuse injury may differ by specific sport and sociocultural parameters. This study aimed to determine the associations of sport participation and training volume with previous overuse injuries in Japanese male youth soccer players. Hypothesis: Being highly specialized before the age of 12 years and high training volume relative to participant age would be associated with a history of serious overuse injury. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: Survey data were collected from male youth soccer players (seventh-ninth grade) during midseason of the 2020-2021 academic year. Participants completed a questionnaire regarding their status of sport participation (single- and multisport athletes), weekly sports volume in first- sixth grade and injury history in the previous year. Odds ratio (OR) was calculated to identify associations of specialization and training volume with a history of serious overuse injury. Results: A total of 841 players (mean age, 13.7 ± 0.9 years) participated; 11% reported serious overuse injury in the previous year, and 64% participated in other sports before the age of 12 years. Players who participated in other sports at <12 years old (OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.09-2.94; P = 0.02) and those who trained for more weekly hours than their age in fifth to sixth grade (OR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.07-2.72; P = 0.03) had greater odds of reporting serious overuse injuries. Conclusion: Multisport athletes and high training volume in fifth-sixth grade were associated with previous serious overuse injuries. Clinical Relevance: Coaches and parents of male youth soccer players should be aware of the increased risk of serious overuse injury participating in multiple sports simultaneously, and youth athletes should adhere to age-appropriate volume recommendations.
Effectiveness of Percutaneous Needle Tenotomy for Tendinopathies: A Systematic Review
Authors: Maag Logan , Linder Susan , Hackett Loren , Mitchkash Matthew , Farley Tyler , Lamar Duncan , Fisher Nolan , Burnham Ben 
Published: September 2024

Context:Tendinopathy is a disease state characterized by tendon disorder with pain or decreased function that can cause significant disability. Multiple treatment modalities exist; however, no single treatment is superior. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle tenotomy (PNT) and TENEX are emerging as promising treatment options for tendinopathy.Objective:To review the current literature of reported outcomes for PNT, TENEX, and TENJET, for the treatment of tendinopathy, including pain relief, change in function, and patient-reported outcomes.Data Sources:A comprehensive search was conducted from database inception to September 2023 in Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, and Cochrane Library.Study Selection:Keywords and index terms related to tendon injury, ultrasound, and tenotomy were used in combination to identify relevant literature that included ultrasound-guidance, treatment of tendinopathy, and treatment with PNT, TENEX, or TENJET. Covidence Systematic Review Software used to screen for relevant studies. Only English-language studies were included.Study Design:Systematic Review using PICO framework as defined and registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO ID CRD42022321307).Level of Evidence:Level 4 (evidence from a systematic review graded to the lowest level of study included).Data Extraction:Articles meeting the inclusion criteria were reviewed. Type and region of tendinopathy studied, outcome measures, and complications were recorded. Clinical and self-reported outcomes data were compared across studies.Results:A total of 10 studies, representing 11 tendon sites, were included. The studies overall report improvements in pain, function, and quality of life after undergoing PNT or TENEX, with minimal adverse effects. Mean risk of bias assessment scores were 8.35 out of 10 assessing internal and external validity for included studies.Conclusion:PNT and TENEX are safe, beneficial, and minimally invasive treatment option for patients, especially for conditions refractory to more conservative treatments options.
High-Intensity Accelerations and Decelerations During Intercounty Camogie Match Play
Authors: Duggan John D. , Byrne Paul J. , Malone Shane , Cooper Stephen-Mark , Moody Jeremy 
Published: September 2024

Background: This study aimed to compare acceleration and deceleration demands of intercounty Camogie players, and differences across playing positions and halves of play. Hypothesis: The middle 3 positions will have greatest accelerations and decelerations variables across match play and halves of play. Study Design: Nonrandomized, repeated measures design. Level of Evidence: Level 4. Methods: Global positioning systems (GPS) (10 Hz) collected data from 28 participants during 18 competitive matches across 2 seasons; 206 individual player datasets were analyzed. Results: Half-backs ( P < 0.05; effect size [ES], -1.75) and midfielders ( P < 0.05; ES, -1.68) covered significantly greater total number of accelerations than full-forwards. In acceleration zone 4, midfielders ( P < 0.05; ES, = -1.67) and half forwards covered a significantly greater number than full-forwards ( P < 0.01; ES, = -1.41). Midfielders accumulated a significantly greater distance in acceleration zone 4 than full-backs ( P < 0.05; ES, = -0.57). Significant decrements were observed between halves in total number of accelerations ( P < 0.01; ES, = 0.49), accelerations in zones 1 to 4 ( P < 0.01; ES, 0.16-0.43), total distance of accelerations, and acceleration distance in zones 2 to 4 ( P < 0.05; ES, 0.25; P < 0.01; ES, 0.45; P < 0.01; ES, 0.38). There were significant decrements in the total number of decelerations ( P < 0.01; ES, 0.43), number of decelerations in zones 2 ( P < 0.05; ES, 0.25), 3 ( P < 0.01; ES, 0.45), and 4 ( P < 0.01; ES, 0.38), and total deceleration distance ( P < 0.01; ES, 0.16). Conclusion: Half-backs and midfielders covered significantly greater total number of accelerations than full-forwards. Significant decrements in several acceleration and deceleration variables were observed between halves. Clinical Relevance: Players competing in intercounty Camogie should receive progressive exposure to acceleration and deceleration-based movement demands to prepare players for intercounty Camogie match play.
The Prevalence of Shoulder and Elbow Pathology in Major League Baseball Prospects From the Dominican Republic
Authors: Fortney Thomas A. , Luzzi Andrew J. , Tenner Zachary M. , Ma Kevin , Rogalski Brandon L. , Ahmad Christopher S. 
Published: September 2024

Background: Rates of shoulder and elbow pathology are well documented among competitive baseball players in the United States; however, little is known about the prevalence of these pathologies in the Dominican Republic (DR). Purpose: To report the epidemiology of shoulder and elbow pathology among participants at a Major League Baseball scouting event in Santo Domingo, DR. Study Design: Retrospective descriptive study. Level of Evidence: 3. Methods: All pitchers and position players who attended the 2021 scouting event were reviewed. Those with complete medical history, physical examination, imaging series, and radiology reports were included. All participants underwent shoulder and elbow radiography, while pitchers also underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). All pathologic findings on imaging studies were recorded and compared among position players and pitchers. Results: Seventy-five participants (average age, 17.9 years) were reviewed (42 position players, 33 pitchers); 72% and 32% had ≥1 abnormal finding on elbow and shoulder radiographs, respectively. Position players had significantly higher numbers of elbow radiographic findings compared with pitchers (81% vs 57.6%, P = 0.03) but similar numbers on shoulder radiograph (28.6% vs 33.3%, P = 0.66). Position players had high numbers of acromioclavicular separation (14.3%) and little leaguer’s shoulder (14.3%) on shoulder radiograph, with olecranon osteophytes (23.8%) and medial epicondyle nonunions (11.9%) prevalent on elbow radiograph. Pitchers had high numbers of rotator cuff pathology (93.9%), labral tears (75.8%), and Bennett lesions (51.5%). On elbow imaging, pitchers had high numbers of ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) abnormalities (81.8%), olecranon osteophytes (69.7%), osteochondral lesions (18.2%), and medial epicondyle nonunions (12.1%). Two pitchers had complete UCL disruption (6.1%), while 8 had partial tears (24.2%). Conclusion: Dominican baseball prospects had high numbers of asymptomatic shoulder and elbow pathology on imaging studies. Knowledge of the prevalence of these pathologies can guide injury prevention programs in Dominican youth baseball.
Microbiome and Femoral Cartilage Thickness in Knee Osteoarthritis: Is There a Link?
Authors: Elsawy Noha Abdelhalim , Ibrahiem Aya Hanafy , Younis Gihan Abdellatif , Meheissen Marwa Ahmed , Abdel-Fattah Yousra Hisham 
Published: September 2024

Objective To assess the relation between microbiome and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), in the blood and synovial fluid (SF) with femoral cartilage thickness (FCT) measured by ultrasound (US) in knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients. Methods This cross-sectional study included 40 primary KOA patients recruited between September 2022 and June 2023. Age, gender, and body mass index (BMI) were recorded. Patients underwent full clinical examination, standing plain x-ray of the knee joint and knee US examination to measure medial, intercondylar, and lateral FCT. Microbiomes (specific bacterial phyla) were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction and LPS levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit in the patients’ serum and SF. Results The patient’s age ranged from 43 to 72 years. Most patients were females (72.5%), with a mean BMI of 35.8 ± 6.21 kg/m2. The mean medial, intercondylar, and lateral FCT were less than cut-off values. All 40 (100%) patients showed positive bacterial deoxyribonucleic acid (16S ribosomal RNA) in both blood and SF samples. Firmicutes was the most abundant in patients’ blood (48.49%) and SF (63.59%). The mean serum LPS level was significantly higher compared to mean SF LPS ( t =4.702, P < 0.001). There was a statistically significant negative correlation between lateral FCT and Firmicutes relative abundance in both patients’ blood and SF. Conclusion Microbiome and LPS are present in the blood and SF of primary KOA patients. Microbiome ( Firmicutes) was associated with decreased lateral FCT. This might provide a potential link between both systemic and local microbiomes and cartilage affection in KOA patients.
Exploring Osteoarthritis Dynamics: Patient-Specific Cartilage Samples in an Organ-on-a-Chip Model
Authors: Pasztorek Markus , Fischer Johanna , Otahal Alexander , de Luna Andrea , Nehrer Stefan , Rosser Julie 
Published: September 2024

Objective This study aims to tackle the existing challenges associated with the prediction and optimization of pharmaceutical interventions for osteoarthritis (OA). The primary objective is to develop an innovative tool that provides objective and patient-specific information regarding the most affected tissue in OA, articular cartilage. Design We employed an organ-on-a-chip (OoC) approach to replicate the 3D structure of cartilage in an in vitro setup. The study focused on assessing the individual drug responses of common medications using this innovative platform. Additionally, we conducted a biomarker analysis to gain insights into the variability of drug responses across patients. Results Our findings reveal that OA articular cartilage demonstrates an individualized response to pharmaceutical interventions. Despite the diverse nature of patient responses, our study indicates that Triamcinolone, a standard-of-care medication, consistently exhibits a robust anti-inflammatory response across patient tests. However, as seen in clinical studies, Triamcinolone was concurrently associated with degeneration. The biomarker analysis further underscores the importance of considering individual drug responses in developing effective treatment plans. Conclusion In conclusion, this study introduces a valuable tool that not only mimics the 3D structure of cartilage but also provides crucial insights into the individualized responses of patients to various OA treatments. The application of an OoC approach may allow for a more accurate assessment of treatment efficacy. This objective biomarker analysis on patient-specific tissue offers clinicians a means to tailor treatment plans, thereby minimizing joint damage and advancing toward a more personalized approach in OA management.
Vedolizumab for second-line treatment of steroid-refractory gastrointestinal late acute graft-versus-host disease
Authors: Zu Yingling , Gui Ruirui , Li Zhen , Wang Juan , Li Pei , Liu Ying , Dong Xiaofeng , Zhou Jian 
Published: September 2024

Background: Late acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) is a complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) with little data regarding treatment and outcomes. There is no standard treatment for gastrointestinal (GI) late aGVHD, especially for steroid-refractory (SR) GI late aGVHD. Vedolizumab, a monoclonal antibody inhibiting the migration of both naive and activated lymphocytes into the GI endothelium, has been verified to be effective for SR GI aGVHD. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical efficacy and safety of vedolizumab as the second line for SR GI late aGVHD in seven patients after allo-HSCT. Results: Four patients received two doses of vedolizumab infusion, while three patients received only one dose of vedolizumab infusion. The complete response and partial response rates were 57.1% (4/7) and 42.9% (3/7), respectively. No patient progressed to chronic GVHD during the period of follow-up. There was no severe adverse event related to vedolizumab. Conclusion: Our data suggest that vedolizumab is expected to ameliorate SR GI late aGVHD. Further data on the treatment timing, efficacy, and safety of vedolizumab are warranted in prospective clinical trials.
General practitioners’ user experience of the nationwide digital decision support system in primary care
Authors: Šteinmiller Jekaterina , Ross Peeter 
Published: September 2024

Objectives The aim of the study is to describe the user experiences of a nationwide digital decision support system (DDSS). Summary of background data DDSSs have the potential to improve the quality and safety of healthcare services by supporting clinical decision-making with evidence-based recommendations. Due to a lack of knowledge, it is difficult to assess whether DDSSs are fulfilling their purpose. In Estonia, a nationwide DDSS for general practitioners (GPs) was implemented in 2020. To understand the impact of DDSS on the quality of care in the Estonian context and meet the demands of healthcare, it is necessary to gather information about the experiences of the users. This is the first study that examines the experiences of GPs on the use of DDSS nationwide. Methods A qualitative descriptive study was conducted based on snowball sampling. Semi-structured interviews were performed in February–March 2022 with nine GPs. Data were analyzed by thematic analysis. A total of six themes and 16 subthemes emerged from the data. Results A total of six themes and 16 subthemes emerged from the data. The following themes were identified: user-friendliness, DDSS use in clinical practice, benefits of the DDSS, and the impact of the DDSS on GPs’ work, barriers to using the DDSS, and suggestions for improving the user experience. The results of the study are important, as they address and contribute to the relevant aspects of digital health in primary care. Conclusion GPs shared their individual user experiences, including user-perceived barriers and enabling factors that influence the implementation and use of a decision support system in primary care settings. It is revealed that GPs have different benefits and barriers depending on the topic discussed. Future research should evaluate the functioning of the DDSS and the quality of the decisions it provides by observing and evaluating patient records. Systematic user experiences need to be collected and examined to ensure the usability and sustainability of the DDSS.
A web-based resource for exercise training in children treated for brain tumours to improve cognitive sequelae: Development and usability
Authors: Cox Elizabeth , Kiwan Marium , de Medeiros Cynthia , Chen-Lai Jeanne , Cassiani Celia , Tseng Julie , Johnston Krista , Timmons Brian W , Stinson Jennifer N , Bouffet Eric , Mabbott Donald J 
Published: September 2024

Improving cognitive sequelae in children treated for brain tumours (CTBT) requires accessible interventions. While instructor-led exercise in a hospital setting is efficacious, it is not extended to communities. Objectives We aimed to (i) develop a website with educational resources/tools for community health and fitness professionals (HFP) to deliver exercise for CTBT in community settings to improve cognition and (ii) assess its usability by community HFP. It was hypothesized that the website would be learnable, clear, satisfactory and efficient to deliver exercise. Methods A scoping review determined the state of eHealth resources to support exercise for CTBT and identified knowledge and resource gaps. Three focus groups with HFP who served cancer survivors in hospital or community settings ( n = 13) identified user needs; content analysis identified themes. Gaps from the scoping review and themes from focus groups informed website content. A questionnaire assessed its usability by community HFP ( n = 4). Descriptive statistics inferred the website's learnability, clarity, satisfaction and efficiency. Open-ended responses identified issues. Results The scoping review revealed a lack of eHealth resources supporting exercise to improve cognition in CTBT and education for HFP to deliver exercise. Six themes were identified in the focus groups. HFP rated the website as sufficiently learnable, clear, satisfactory and efficient. Two minor issues were reported and addressed. Conclusion The website marks one of the first eHealth resources to increase accessibility of intervention to improve cognitive sequelae and ultimately quality of life in CTBT. HFP also gain access to education and tools to deliver exercise in community settings.