bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Relationship between attitudes toward COVID-19 infection, depression and anxiety: a cross-sectional survey in Japan
Authors: Hazumi Megumi , Okazaki Emi , Usuda Kentaro , Kataoka Mayumi , Nishi Daisuke 
Published: December 2022

AbstractBackgroundAlthough negative attitudes are known to develop with experiences of COVID-19 infection, it remains unclear whether such attitudes contribute to depression and anxiety as sequelae of COVID-19. We aimed to investigate the relationships between attitude towards COVID-19 infection and post-COVID-19 depression and anxiety.MethodsA cross-sectional survey of COVID-19 recovered patients was conducted from July to September 2021 in Japan. Outcome variables, depression and anxiety were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7); scores of 10 and above were identified as having symptoms of depression and anxiety, respectively. Exposure variables were whether participants were experiencing the following attitude strongly: threat to life due to COVID-19 infection, helplessness regarding COVID-19 infection, blaming a third party who did not restrain from going outside, blaming themselves for their COVID-19 infection, worry about spreading the infection to others, and self-stigma (Self-Stigma Scale-Short). Modified Poisson regression analyses were performed to analyze the findings.ResultsA total of 6016 responses were included in the analyses. The proportion of depression was 19.88%, and anxiety was 11.47%. The threat of life due to COVID-19 infection, helplessness regarding COVID-19 infection, blaming oneself for their COVID-19 infection, and self-stigma were significantly associated with depression and anxiety after adjusting covariates. Blaming the third party who did not restrain from going outside was associated with anxiety. There was no association between the worry about spreading infection to others and depression or anxiety.ConclusionNegative attitudes, including self-stigma with the experience of COVID-19 infection, were related to depression and anxiety. Further studies confirming whether countermeasures for preventing or decreasing the negative attitude towards COVID-19 infection mitigate these symptoms are needed.
Worsening effect of testosterone deficiency on males with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Hamam Ahmed , Abou-Omar Mahmoud , Rabah Hanem , Khattab Haidy , Alaarag Ahmed 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)is challenging. Patients usually have normal LV size and ejection fraction. This clinical syndrome develops from a complex interaction of several risk factors that cause organ dysfunction and clinical symptoms. There’s evidence that testosterone deficiency is associated with a worse cardiometabolic profile and increased inflammatory markers. We thought that these changes might have an impact on heart failure pathogenesis. We aimed to study the relationship between testosterone level and symptoms in HFpEF.

Methods
We studied 120 male patients with HFpEF. According to New York Heart Association (NYHA), patients were classified into I, II and III classes; class IV patients were excluded. All patients were subjected to clinical and echocardiographic examinations. In addition, we measured serum testosterone, cardio-metabolic profile, intracellular adhesive molecule-1(ICAM-1), P-selectin and nitric oxide (NO) levels.

Results
Patients with testosterone deficiency had worse NYHA class and higher BNP P = (0.001). Additionally, they had a significantly worse metabolic profile; higher total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, fasting insulin and HOMA-IR P = (0.005, 0.001, 0.001, 0.001), respectively.
Also, they had higher inflammatory markers and worse endothelial functional parameters; (ICAM-1, NO and P- selectin) P = (0.001).
Age, BNP and testosterone deficiency can be used as independent predictors of NYHA class III symptoms with a Testosterone cutoff value of 2.7 ng/ml.

Conclusion
Testosterone deficiency could be used as an independent predictor of symptom severity in HFpEF, and it aggravates systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in these patients.
Utilization of long-acting contraceptive methods and associated factors among married women in Farta Woreda, Northwest Ethiopia: a community-based mixed method study
Authors: Aychew Eden Workneh , Bekele Yibeltal Alemu , Ayele Alemu Degu , Dessie Anteneh Mengist , Dagnew Gizachew Worku 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
Although long-acting contraceptive methods are highly effective, safe, and provide uninterrupted protection from unintended pregnancy compared to short-acting methods, evidences suggest that majority of women were relayed on short-acting contraceptive methods. Thus, this study aimed to determine the level of long-acting contraceptive methods utilization and associated factors among married women in Farta Woreda, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021.

Methods
A community-based cross-sectional study supplemented with qualitative data was performed among 556 married women from March 1 to 31, 2021. A semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and interview guides were used to collect the data. The data were entered into Epi data version 4.6 and analyzed by SPSS version 23 software. The association between variables was analyzed using bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression. The level of statistically significant association was determined at a P-value < 0.05. After translation and transcription, manual thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data.

Results
The magnitude of long-acting contraceptive methods among married women in Farta Woreda was found to be 14.3% [95% CI 11.5–17.6]. Previous use of long-acting contraceptive methods (AOR = 5.83, 95% CI 3.03, 11.21), positive attitude towards long-acting contraceptives (AOR = 2.74, 95% CI 1.48, 5.07), having formal education for husbands’ (AOR = 3.05, 95% CI 1.5, 6.21), and poor wealth index (AOR = 3.39, 95% CI 1.33, 8.67) were positively associated with utilization of long-acting contraceptive methods. Moreover, fear of side effects, misconceptions, and partner opposition were the most commonly identified barriers by the qualitative data.

Conclusion
Utilization of long-acting contraceptives among married women in Farta Woreda was low as compared to the 2020/21 national reproductive health strategy plan to increase the long-acting reversible and permanent contraceptive methods use to 50%. Previous use of long-acting contraceptives, positive attitude towards long-acting contraceptives, husband education, and household wealth index was found to be significantly associated with long-acting contraceptive utilization. Hence, it is better to work more on changing women's attitudes and increasing husband education.
Transcriptomics and metabolomics reveal changes in the regulatory mechanisms of osteosarcoma under different culture methods in vitro
Authors: Yang Sen , Tian Zhi , Feng Yi , Zhang Kun , Pan Yongchun , Li Yuan , Wang Zhichao , Wei Wenhao , Qiao Xiaochen , Zhou Ruhao , Yan Lei , Li Qian , Guo Hua , Yuan Jie , Li Pengcui , Lv Zhi 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
Recently, increasing attention has been drawn to the impact of the tumor microenvironment (TME) on the occurrence and progression of malignant tumors. A variety of 3D culture techniques have been used to simulate TME in vitro. The purpose of this study was to reveal the differences in transcriptional and metabolic levels between osteosarcoma (OS) 2D cells, 3D cells, 3D cell-printed tissue, isolated tissue, and transplanted tumor tissue in vivo.

Methods
We cultured the OS Saos-2 cell line under different culture methods as 2D cells, 3D cells, 3D cell-printed tissue and isolated tissue for 14 days and transplanted tumors in vivo as a control group. Through transcriptomic and metabonomic analyses, we determined the changes in gene expression and metabolites in OS tissues under different culture methods.

Results
At the transcriptional level, 166 differentially expressed genes were found, including the SMAD family, ID family, BMP family and other related genes, and they were enriched in the TGF-β signaling pathway, complement and coagulation cascades, signaling pathways regulating pluripotency of stem cells, Hippo signaling pathway, ferroptosis, cGMP-PKG signaling pathway and other pathways. At the metabolic level, 362 metabolites were significantly changed and enriched in metabolic pathways such as the Fc Epsilon RI signaling pathway, histidine metabolism, primary bile acid biosynthesis, steroid biosynthesis, protein digestion and absorption, ferroptosis, and arachidonic acid metabolism. After integrating the transcriptome and metabolomics data, it was found that 44 metabolic pathways were changed, and the significantly enriched pathways were ferroptosis and pyrimidine metabolism.

Conclusion
Different culture methods affect the gene expression and metabolite generation of OS Saos-2 cells. Moreover, the cell and tissue culture method in vitro cannot completely simulate TME in vivo, and the ferroptosis and pyrimidine metabolism pathways mediate the functional changes of OS Saos-2 cells in different microenvironments.
Challenges of design, implementation, acceptability, and potential for, biomedical technologies in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Bressan Tiana , Valdivia-Gago Andrea , Silvera-Ccallo Rosa M. , Llanos-Cuentas Alejandro , Condor Daniel F. , Padilla-Huamantinco Pierre G. , Vilcarromero Stalin , Miranda J. Jaime , Zavaleta-Cortijo Carol 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
Biomedical technologies have the potential to be advantageous in remote communities. However, information about barriers faced by users of technology in general and in remote Indigenous communities is scarce. The purpose of this study was to characterize the leading challenges faced by researchers who have used biomedical technologies in the Peruvian Amazon.

Methods
This exploratory, qualitative study with a phenomenological approach depicts the lived experience of participants who were researchers with experience working with biomedical technologies in the Peruvian Amazon in the past five years. Analysis was based on three core themes: design, implementation, and acceptability. Sub-themes included environment, community, and culture. Of the 24 potential participants identified and contacted, 14 agreed to participate, and 13 met inclusion criteria and completed semi-structured interviews. Results were sent to each participant with the opportunity to provide feedback and partake in a 30-minute validation meeting. Five participants consented to a follow-up meeting to validate the results and provide further understanding.

Results
Participants recognized significant challenges, including technologies designed out-of-context, difficulty transporting the technologies through the Amazon, the impact of the physical environment (e.g., humidity, flooding), and limited existing infrastructure, such as electricity and appropriately trained health personnel. Participants also identified cultural factors, including the need to address past experiences with technology and health interventions, understand and appropriately communicate community benefits, and understand the effect of demographics (e.g., age, education) on the acceptance and uptake of technology. Complementary challenges, such as corruption in authority and waste disposal, and recommendations for technological and health interventions such as co-design were also identified.

Conclusions
This study proposes that technological and health interventions without efforts to respect local cultures and health priorities, or understand and anticipate contextual challenges, will not meet its goal of improving access to healthcare in remote Amazon communities. Furthermore, the implications of corruption on health services, and improper waste disposal on the environment may lead to more detrimental health inequities.
Efficacy of probiotic Streptococcus thermophilus in counteracting TGF-β1-induced fibrotic response in normal human dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Lombardi Francesca , Augello Francesca Rosaria , Artone Serena , Bahiti Blerina , Sheldon Jenna Marie , Giuliani Maurizio , Cifone Maria Grazia , Palumbo Paola , Cinque Benedetta 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
Abnormal and deregulated skin wound healing associated with prolonged inflammation may result in dermal fibrosis. Since the current therapeutic strategies revealed unsatisfactory, the investigation of alternative approaches such as those based on the use of specific probiotic strains could provide promising therapeutic options. In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether the lysate from S. thermophilus could antagonize the fibrogenic effects of TGF-β1 in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF).

Methods
NHDF were exposed to TGF-β1 to establish a fibrotic phenotype. Proliferation rate and cell number were measured using the IncuCyte® Live Cell Imager system and the trypan blue dye exclusion test. Phenoconversion markers (α-SMA and fibronectin) and collagen I levels were assessed by western blot and immunofluorescence. The mRNA levels of TGF-β1 were evaluated by RT-PCR. The Smad2/3 phosphorylation level as well as β-catenin and PPARγ expression, were assessed by western blot. The cell contractility function and migration of NHDF were studied using collagen gel retraction assay, and scratch wound healing assay, respectively. The effects of S. thermophilus lysate, alone or combined with TGF-β1, were evaluated on all of the above-listed parameters and markers associated with TGF-β1-induced fibrotic phenotype.

Results
Exposure to the S. thermophilus lysate significantly reduced the key mediators and events involved in the abnormal activation of myofibroblasts by TGF-β1 within the fibrotic profile. The S. thermophilus treatment significantly reduced cell proliferation, migration, and myo-differentiation. In addition, the treatment with probiotic lysate reduced the α-SMA, fibronectin, collagen-I expression levels, and affected the collagen contraction ability of activated dermal fibroblasts. Moreover, the probiotic targeted the TGF-β1 signaling, reducing Smad2/3 activation, TGF-β1 mRNA level, and β-catenin expression through the upregulation of PPARγ.

Conclusion
This is the first report showing that S. thermophilus lysate had a remarkable anti-fibrotic effect in TGF-β1-activated NHDF by inhibiting Smad signaling. Notably, the probiotic was able to reduce β-catenin and increase PPARγ levels. The findings support our point that S. thermophilus may help prevent or treat hypertrophic scarring and keloids.
A simple and effective method to purify and activate T cells for successful generation of chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells from patients with high monocyte count
Authors: Wang Haiying , Tsao Shih-Ting , Gu Mingyuan , Fu Chengbing , He Feng , Li Xiu , Zhang Mian , Li Na , Hu Hong-Ming 
Published: December 2022

AbstractBackgroundChimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells are genetically modified T cells with redirected specificity and potent T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity toward malignant cells. Despite several CAR-T products being approved and commercialized in the USA, Europe, and China, CAR-T products still require additional optimization to ensure reproducible and cost-effective manufacture. Here, we investigated the critical parameters in the CD3+T-cell isolation process that significantly impacted CAR-T manufacturing's success.MethodsCAR-T cells were prepared from cryopreserved peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The thawed PBMC was rested overnight before the CD3+T cell isolation process using CTS™Dynabeads™CD3/CD28. Different isolation media, cell-bead co-incubation time, and cell density were examined in this study. Activated CD3+T cells were transduced with a gamma retroviral vector carrying the CD19 or BCMA CAR sequence. The CAR-T cells proliferated in a culture medium supplemented with interleukin 2 (IL-2).ResultsCD14+monocytes hindered T-cell isolation when X-VIVO 15 basic medium was used as the selection buffer. The activation of T cells was blocked because monocytes actively engulfed CD3/28 beads. In contrast, when DPBS was the selection medium, the T-cell isolation and activation were no longer blocked, even in patients whose PBMC contained abnormally high CD14+monocytes and a low level of CD3+T cells.ConclusionsIn this study, we discovered that selecting CD3+T-cell isolation media is critical for improving T-cell activation, transduction, and CAR-T proliferation. Using DPBS as a CD3+T cell isolation buffer significantly improved the success rate and shortened the duration of CAR-T production. The optimized process has been successfully applied in our ongoing clinical trials.Trial registrationNCT03798509: Human CD19 Targeted T Cells Injection Therapy for Relapsed and Refractory CD19-positive Leukemia. Date of registration: January 10, 2019. NCT03720457: Human CD19 Targeted T Cells Injection (CD19 CAR-T) Therapy for Relapsed and Refractory CD19-positive Lymphoma. Date of registration: October 25, 2018. NCT04003168: Human BCMA Targeted T Cells Injection Therapy for BCMA-positive Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma. Date of registration: July 1, 2019
Reliability and validity of physical examination tests for the assessment of ankle instability
Authors: Beynon Amber , Le May Sylvie , Theroux Jean 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Introduction
Clinicians rely on certain physical examination tests to diagnose and potentially grade ankle sprains and ankle instability. Diagnostic error and inaccurate prognosis may have important repercussions for clinical decision-making and patient outcomes. Therefore, it is important to recognize the diagnostic value of orthopaedic tests through understanding the reliability and validity of these tests.

Objective
To systematically review and report evidence on the reliability and validity of orthopaedic tests for the diagnosis of ankle sprains and instability.

Methods
PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to December 2021. In addition, the reference list of included studies, located systematic reviews, and orthopaedic textbooks were searched. All articles reporting reliability or validity of physical examination or orthopaedic tests to diagnose ankle instability or sprains were included. Methodological quality of the reliability and the validity studies was assessed with The Quality Appraisal for Reliability studies checklist and the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 respectively. We identified the number of times the orthopaedic test was investigated and the validity and/or reliability of each test.

Results
Overall, sixteen studies were included. Three studies assessed reliability, eight assessed validity, and five evaluated both. Overall, fifteen tests were evaluated, none demonstrated robust reliability and validity scores. The anterolateral talar palpation test reported the highest diagnostic accuracy. Further, the anterior drawer test, the anterolateral talar palpation, the reverse anterior lateral drawer test, and palpation of the anterior talofibular ligament reported the highest sensitivity. The highest specificity was attributed to the anterior drawer test, the anterolateral drawer test, the reverse anterior lateral drawer test, tenderness on palpation of the proximal fibular, and the squeeze test.

Conclusion
Overall, the diagnostic accuracy, reliability, and validity of physical examination tests for the assessment of ankle instability were limited. Physical examination tests should not be used in isolation, but rather in combination with the clinical history to diagnose an ankle sprain. Preliminary evidence suggests that the overall validity of physical examination for the ankle may be better if conducted five days after the injury rather than within 48 h of injury.
Effect of ACDF combined with different degrees of partial resection of uncovertebral joints on cervical stability and degeneration: a three-dimensional finite element analysis
Authors: Guo Wei , Jiang Yuan , Zhu Yang , Huang Jingwen 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
To evaluate the influence of the resection of different amounts of the uncovertebral joints on the stability of the cervical spine by comparing and analyzing the stress distribution and peak displacement characteristics of the internal fixation structures and endplates.

Methods
After obtaining the CT data of a 34-year-old male healthy cervical spine, a three-dimensional finite element model was established and verified. The three-dimensional finite element method was used to establish the models of anterior cervical compression fusion and internal fixation surgical implants and anterior cervical compression fusion and internal fixation combined with the partial resection of different amounts of the unilateral or bilateral uncovertebral joints. The models were tested under six working conditions: flexion, extension, left bending, right bending, left rotation, and right rotation. The surgical models were compared regarding the stress distribution of the titanium mesh, titanium plate and screw, and endplate, and the peak displacement of the vertebral body.

Results
There were no significant differences in the stress distribution and peak displacement of the vertebral body of ACDF combined with different amounts of uncovertebral joint resection in the states of flexion and extension. However, there were significant increases in the stress distribution and peak displacement of the vertebral body in the states of left and right bending and rotation. In the states of left and right bending and rotation, the stress distribution and peak displacement of the vertebral body were significantly greater in the models with bilateral partial resection of the uncovertebral joints than in the models with unilateral partial resection of the uncovertebral joints. Bilateral resection of the uncovertebral joints by 30–40% and unilateral resection of the uncovertebral joints by 40–50% resulted in the greatest increases in the maximum stress distribution of the titanium plate and screw and the peak displacement of the vertebral body.

Conclusion
Finite element analysis of the biomechanical changes in the cervical spine showed that anterior cervical compression fusion and internal fixation combined with bilateral resection of less than 30% of the uncovertebral joints or unilateral resection of less than 40% of the uncovertebral joints had little effect on the stability of the cervical spine.