bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Short-term effects of Kinesio taping combined with cervical muscles multi-angle isometric training in patients with cervical spondylosis
Authors: Xiong Jian , Zhang Zhe , Zhang Zhichao , Ma Yan , Li Zuhong , Chen Yongjin , Liu Qi , Liao Weijing 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Objective
The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of Kinesio taping (KT) combined with multi-angle isometric resistance training for cervical spondylosis.

Methods
Sixty-one patients were divided into two groups by random number table method. Both groups were given multi-angle isometric training, the patients in the observation group were supplemented with Kinesio taping. Before and after treatment, the symptoms of cervical spine function were evaluated in two groups by visual analogue scale (VAS), cervical dysfunction index (NDI), cervical range of motion and muscle stiffness.

Results
After 3 weeks of treatment, VAS, NDI scores and the cervical range of motion were significantly better than before (P < 0.05). The range of anterior flexion and extension was significantly larger than the control group (P < 0.05), but the range of other motions were not certain. The muscle stiffness in KT group were significantly lower than the control group.

Conclusion
Kinesio taping combined with multi-angle isometric resistance training can further alleviate the clinical symptoms and correct the neck abnormal posture. But its effects on the range of cervical motion remain uncertain.
Inequalities in the prevalence, diagnosis awareness, treatment coverage and effective control of diabetes: a small area estimation analysis in Iran
Authors: Perseh Lida , Peimani Maryam , Ghasemi Erfan , Nasli-Esfahani Ensieh , Rezaei Negar , Farzadfar Farshad , Larijani Bagher 
Published: January 2023

AbstractObjectiveThis study aims to assess geographic inequalities in the prevalence, awareness of diagnosis, treatment coverage and effective control of diabetes in 429 districts of Iran.MethodsA modelling study by the small area estimation method, based on a nationwide cross-sectional survey, Iran STEPwise approach to surveillance (STEPS) 2016, was performed. The modelling estimated the prevalence, awareness of diagnosis, treatment coverage, and effective control of diabetes in all 429 districts of Iran based on data from available districts. The modelling results were provided in different geographical and socio-economic scales to make the comparison possible across the country.ResultsIn 2016, the prevalence of diabetes ranged from 3.2 to 19.8% for women and 2.4 to 19.1% for men. Theawareness of diagnosis ranged from 51.9 to 95.7% for women and35.7 to 100% for men. Therate of treatment coverage ranged from 37.2 to 85.6% for women and 24.4 to 80.5% for men. Therate of effective controlranged from 12.1 to 63.6% for women and 12 to 73% for men.The highest treatment coverage rates belonged to Ardebil for women and Shahr-e-kord for men. The highest effective control rates belonged to Sanandaj for women and Nehbandan for men. Across Iran districts, there were considerable differences between the highest and lowest rates of prevalence, diagnosis awareness, treatment coverage, and effective control of diabetes. The concentration indices of diabetes prevalence, awareness of diagnosis, and treatment coverage were positive and significant for both sexes.ConclusionFindings of this study highlight the existence of inequalities in diagnosis awareness, treatment coverage, and effective control of diabetes in all Iran regions. More suitable population-wide strategies and policies are warranted to handle these inequalities in Iran.
A high serum creatine kinase (CK)-MB-to-total-CK ratio in patients with pancreatic cancer: a novel application of a traditional marker in predicting malignancy of pancreatic masses?
Authors: Chen Cong , Lin Xianchao , Lin Ronggui , Huang Heguang , Lu Fengchun 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background
The finding that some benign pancreatic masses mimic the imaging appearance of carcinomas poses a challenge for pancreatic surgeons. Preoperative markers that assist in the diagnosis are critical under this circumstance. Abnormal serum creatine kinase (CK) isozyme levels were reported in cancer patients, and this study aimed to explore the potential value of the CK-MB-to-total-CK ratio (CK ratio) in differentiating pancreatic cancer (PC) from benign masses when combined with carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9).

Methods
A total of 190 patients primarily diagnosed with pancreatic masses were retrospectively reviewed and assigned to the PC group and the benign pancreatic mass (BPM) group. Sixty-eight controls were enrolled for comparison. Levels of preoperative parameters, including total serum CK, CK-MB, absolute neutrophil count, absolute lymphocyte count, albumin, and CA19-9, were recorded as well as pathological information. A logistic regression model was established to assess the application value of the combination of CA19-9 and the CK ratio in diagnosis. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to evaluate the diagnostic value of the markers.

Results
The CK ratio was significantly elevated in the PC group compared with the BPM group (P < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, a CK ratio greater than 0.220 was a statistically significant variable for predicting malignancy of pancreatic masses (P=0.001). Patients with stage III/IV PC had a higher CK ratio than those with stage I/II PC (P<0.01). Combined detection of CA19-9 and the CK ratio produced an increased Youden index (0.739 vs. 0.815) with improved sensitivity (82.2% vs. 89.8%).

Conclusions
The CK ratio is elevated in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma and is an independent factor predicting pancreatic adenocarcinoma. The CK ratio augments the diagnostic capacity of CA19-9 in detecting malignancy.
Sustained postconfluent culture of human mammary epithelial cells enriches for luminal and c-Kit+ subtypes
Authors: Todhunter Michael E. , Miyano Masaru , Carlson Eric G. , Hinz Stefan , LaBarge Mark A. 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background
A challenge in human mammary epithelial cell (HMEC) culture is sustaining the representation of competing luminal, myoepithelial, and progenitor lineages over time. As cells replicate in culture, myoepithelial cells come to dominate the composition of the culture with serial passaging. This drift in composition presents a challenge for studying luminal and progenitor cells, which are prospective cells of origin for most breast cancer subtypes.

Methods
We demonstrate the use of postconfluent culture on HMECs. Postconfluent culture entails culturing HMECs for 2–5 weeks without passaging but maintaining frequent feedings in low-stress M87A culture medium. In contrast, standard HMEC culture entails enzymatic subculturing every 3–5 days to maintain subconfluent density.

Results
When compared to standard HMEC culture, postconfluent culture yields increased proportions of luminal cells and c-Kit+ progenitor cells. Postconfluent cultures develop a distinct multilayered morphology with individual cells showing decreased physical deformability as compared to cells in standard culture. Gene expression analysis of postconfluent cells shows increased expression of lineage-specific markers and extracellular matrix components.

Conclusions
Postconfluent culture is a novel, useful strategy for altering the lineage composition of HMECs, by increasing the proportional representation of luminal and progenitor cells. We speculate that postconfluent culture creates a microenvironment with cellular composition closer to the physiological state and eases the isolation of scarce cell subtypes. As such, postconfluent culture is a valuable tool for researchers using HMECs for breast cancer research.
Restoring Study PRGF: a randomized clinical trial on plasma rich in growth factors for knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Saiz Luis Carlos , Erviti Juan , Leache Leire , Gutiérrez-Valencia Marta 
Published: January 2023

AbstractBackgroundA randomized clinical trial assessing plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) versus hyaluronic acid for knee osteoarthritis was published in 2012 (sponsor trial ID BTI-01-EC/07/ART). Evidence of misreporting was discovered following access to unpublished materials. In accordance with the principles of the Restoring Invisible and Abandoned Trials (RIAT) initiative, we sought to re-analyse Study PRGF based on the unpublished trial materials.MethodsReanalysis was made possible primarily based on two unpublished study documents (original trial protocol and final report) obtained from the authors of the original publication. A call to action, calling on the authors to correct the original publication, was publicly issued. The involved ethics committee was repeatedly approached and extensive discussion with the authors ensued. After no agreement to correct the paper was reached, we embarked on this restoration. Reanalysis was focused on providing updated analyses for efficacy and safety.ResultsThe efficacy of PRGF was not statistically different from hyaluronic acid for any prespecified primary or secondary efficacy outcomes. For the primary endpoint, the percent of patients on PRGF compared to hyaluronic acid with a decrease >40% in WOMAC pain subscale score was 5.4% higher; 95% confidence interval (CI) −10.4% to 21.3%;p= 0.505. This differs from the original publication that reported a non-prespecified primary endpoint (decrease >50% in WOMAC pain subscale score) which was 14.1% higher; 95% CI 0.5 to 27.6%;p=0.044. Furthermore, in contrast to the article statement that all the adverse events disappeared in 48 h, at least two patients in the hyaluronic arm and five patients in the PRGF arm reported persistent adverse events. Inadequate disclosure of conflicts of interest in the original publication was also noted.ConclusionsThis reanalysis of Study PRGF found no clinically or statistically significant benefit from PRGF compared to hyaluronic acid. The restoration of Study PRGF shows the urgency of important changes to trial reporting and oversight practices. In the future, timely access to all clinical trial documents is needed to minimize the risk of reporting bias. Similarly, ethics committees should be ready to intervene whenever a case of potential misconduct arises.Trial registrationThis is a RIAT project, whose original trial was approved and registered on 19 December 2007 by the Ethics Committee of the Basque Country, Spain, as BTI-01-EC/07/ART.
Reducing tobacco-associated lung cancer risk: a study protocol for a randomized clinical trial of AB-free kava
Authors: Xing Chengguo , Malaty John , Malham Melissa Bou , Nehme Anna Maria Abi , Freeman Breanne , Huo Zhiguang , Firpi-Morrel Roberto , Salloum Ramzi G. 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background
Tobacco use is the leading cause of many preventable diseases, resulting in premature death or disease. Given that the majority of adult who smoke want to stop, this health burden could be significantly reduced if the success rate of tobacco cessation can be improved. In addition, most adults planning to quit were interested in trying complementary approaches to facilitating tobacco cessation, which is currently lacking. Therefore, there is an unmet and urgent need for novel interventions to improve the success of tobacco cessation. If such an intervention can reduce tobacco-associated lung carcinogenesis, that will be more desirable. The goal of this project is to develop a safe and effective kava-based intervention to enable tobacco cessation and reduce lung cancer risk, which will improve the health of smokers.

Methods
A randomized controlled trial will enroll 80 adults who currently smoke at least 10 cigarettes daily and randomize 1:1 into the placebo and AB-free kava arms, being exposed for 4 weeks, with a total of six visits (weeks 0, 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12) to evaluate the compliance and potential issues of AB-free kava use among the participants, explore the potential effect of the AB-free kava intervention on tobacco dependence, tobacco use, and lung carcinogenesis biomarkers. Participants will be enrolled during their primary care clinic visit.

Discussion
Primary care settings play a critical role in tobacco-related disease screening, counseling, and early intervention, as the majority of adults who smoke visit their physicians annually. Building upon our promising pilot human trial results in conjunction with ample compelling lab animal results, and consistent with evidence of kava’s benefits from epidemiological data, this trial will evaluate the compliance of AB-free kava among adults who currently smoke with no intention to quit. The other exploratory aims include (1) whether AB-free kava intervention can reduce tobacco use and tobacco dependence; (2) whether AB-free kava use suppresses tobacco-induced carcinogenesis; and (3) the potential of the mechanism-based noninvasive biomarkers in precision AB-free kava intervention. The positive results from this study are expected to provide a great opportunity to effectively reduce smoking rates and tobacco-related diseases.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov with the identifier: NCT05081882. Registered on October 18, 2021.
Declined plasma microfibrillar-associated protein 4 levels in acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Han Chunming , Peng Yuanshu , Yang Xiaoyan , Guo Zongsheng , Yang Xinchun , Su Pixiong , Guo Shubin , Zhao Lei 
Published: January 2023

Abstract
Background
Microfibrillar-associated protein (MFAP4), initially identified as an extracellular matrix protein, has been demonstrated in multiple human disorders, but it is yet to be discovered following acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in clinical practice. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between circulating MFAP4 levels and coronary stenosis in ACS.

Methods
We performed the study in 148 ACS subjects, including 75 ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), 27 non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (non-STEMI) and 46 unstable angina (UA). Clinical variables were collected and Gensini and Syntax stenosis scoring systems were applied to assess the severity of coronary stenosis. Kaplan–Meier and logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the relationship between MFAP4 and the severity of coronary stenosis or ACS outcomes. Spearman analysis was used to describe the correlation between MFAP4 and clinical parameters.

Results
Circulating MFAP4 levels were significantly decreased in the STEMI group (0.008 ng/ml) compared with the non-STEMI group (0.014 ng/ml) and UA group (0.019 ng/ml) (p < 0.001). After adjusting for confounding factors, we found that MFAP4 was an independent risk factor for STEMI (odds ratio = 0.395, 95% CI 0.174–0.895, p = 0.026). MFAP4 level was negatively correlated with Gensini score and Syntax score (r = − 0.311 and − 0.211, p < 0.001 and 0.01, respectively). Based on the MFAP4 level of 0.117 ng/ml, ACS patients were divided into two groups: the low-MFAP4 group (< 0.117 ng/ml, n = 60) and the high-MFAP4 group (≥ 0.117 ng/ml, n = 88). After the median follow-up of 165 days, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis revealed that the MACE-free rate was significantly lower in ACS patients with lower MFAP4 levels (p = 0.009).

Conclusions
MFAP4 has a potential as a biomarker for the degree of coronary stenosis in ACS. Confirmation of observations in larger cohorts and longer follow-up periods is warranted.
Designing and validating a scale for evaluating the sources of unreliability of a high-stakes test
Authors: Nikmard Fateme , Tavassoli Kobra , Pourdana Natasha 
Published: January 2023

AbstractThe idea of sources other than the test-takers’ knowledge leading to different results on high-stakes tests was the motif based on which the present investigation was initiated on the probable sources of unreliability of a test. For this purpose, the researchers went through a thorough literature review with the aim to identify the issues to be counted as sources of unreliability of a high-stakes test, i.e., the MA University Entrance Exam of English (UEEE) in Iran. First, 17 MA UEEE test-takers were asked to take part in a semi-structured interview to find out their ideas about such sources. The outcome of the thematic coding of the information from the literature and interviews was a 57-item Likert scale questionnaire which was reviewed by three assessment experts, revised accordingly, piloted with 57 MA UEEE test-takers, and revised again with 55 items remaining. The revised questionnaire was administered to 312 MA UEEE test-takers in Iran, and its reliability and construct validity were checked through Cronbach alpha (.89) and exploratory factor analysis, respectively. After checking its reliability and construct validity, 46 items remained and loaded on four factors which were named as the effect of test-takers (16 items), structure of the test and external concerns (13 items), administration conditions of the test (13 items), and role of proctors (4 items). The results of this study might familiarize test developers, test administrators, teachers, and test-takers with issues they should be aware of in developing or preparing for a high-stakes test like the MA UEEE.
Sleep fragmentation affects glymphatic system through the different expression of AQP4 in wild type and 5xFAD mouse models
Authors: Vasciaveo Valeria , Iadarola Antonella , Casile Antonino , Dante Davide , Morello Giulia , Minotta Lorenzo , Tamagno Elena , Cicolin Alessandro , Guglielmotto Michela 
Published: January 2023

AbstractAlzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by genetic and multifactorial risk factors. Many studies correlate AD to sleep disorders. In this study, we performed and validated a mouse model of AD and sleep fragmentation, which properly mimics a real condition of intermittent awakening. We noticed that sleep fragmentation induces a general acceleration of AD progression in 5xFAD mice, while in wild type mice it affects cognitive behaviors in particular learning and memory. Both these events may be correlated to aquaporin-4 (AQP4) modulation, a crucial player of the glymphatic system activity. In particular, sleep fragmentation differentially affects aquaporin-4 channel (AQP4) expression according to the stage of the disease, with an up-regulation in younger animals, while such change cannot be detected in older ones. Moreover, in wild type mice sleep fragmentation affects cognitive behaviors, in particular learning and memory, by compromising the glymphatic system through the decrease of AQP4. Nevertheless, an in-depth study is needed to better understand the mechanism by which AQP4 is modulated and whether it could be considered a risk factor for the disease development in wild type mice. If our hypotheses are going to be confirmed, AQP4 modulation may represent the convergence point between AD and sleep disorder pathogenic mechanisms.
Leveraging national laboratories to increase Black representation in STEM: recommendations within the Department of Energy
Authors: Hampton-Marcell Jarrad , Bryson Tasia , Larson Jeffrey , Childers Taylor , Pasero Spencer , Watkins Cortez , Reed Thomas , Flucas-Payton Dorletta , Papka Michael E. 
Published: January 2023

AbstractIncreasing diversity in STEM disciplines has been a goal at scientific institutions for many decades. Black representation in STEM, however, has remained critically low at all levels (high school, undergraduate, graduate, and professional) for over 40 years, highlighting the need for innovative strategies that promote and retain Black students and professionals in STEM. We refocus efforts on increasing Black representation in STEM by promoting early exposure and continued engagement while leveraging national laboratories—an underutilized resource with immense potential to centralize diversity and inclusion efforts nationally.
Integration of computational thinking in K-12 mathematics education: a systematic review on CT-based mathematics instruction and student learning
Authors: Ye Huiyan , Liang Biyao , Ng Oi-Lam , Chai Ching Sing 
Published: January 2023

AbstractThere has been substantial research undertaken on the integration of computational thinking (CT) in K-12 mathematics education in recent years, particularly since 2018 when relevant systematic reviews were conducted on the topic. Many empirical studies in this area have yet to elaborate clearly and explicitly on how CT may support mathematics learning, or otherwise, in CT-based mathematics activities. Addressing this research gap, we conducted a systematic review on the integration of CT in K-12 mathematics education with a focus on CT-based mathematics instruction and students learning under such instruction. The Web of Science database was searched for in terms of studies published from 2006 to 2021, from which 24 articles were selected to provide illustrations of CT-based mathematics instruction and related student learning, and they were further analyzed according to education levels and contexts, programming tools, learning outcomes in CT and mathematics, and the mutual relationship between CT and mathematics learning. Among the results, this review found that geometrized programming and student-centered instructional approaches were facilitators of productive learning in CT and mathematics. Moreover, CT-based mathematics learning entails an interactive and cyclical process of reasoning mathematically and reasoning computationally, which can occur when: (1) applying mathematics to construct CT artefacts; (2) applying mathematics to anticipate and interpret CT outputs; and (3) generating new mathematical knowledge in parallel with the development of CT. The findings contribute to an in-depth understanding of what, and how, CT-based mathematics instruction impacts student learning in K-12 contexts.
The relationship between coping styles and family burden in chronic schizophrenic and bipolar type I patients’ caregivers
Authors: Abbaslou Tahereh , Farsham Aida , Bidaki Reza , Bozorg Bonnie 
Published: January 2023

AbstractBackgroundCaregivers play an essential role in caring of patients with psychiatric disorders. It is important to focus on family burden and coping styles of chronic psychiatric disorders’ caregivers. In this survey, the aim was to measure coping styles’ of schizophrenic and bipolar type I patients’ caregivers, their burden and its relationship between these scales. In this cross-sectional study, 100 main caregivers of patients (50 schizophrenic patients, 50 bipolar type I patients) from both Razi psychiatric hospital were enrolled in the study in 2014. The instruments were family burden interview schedule (FBIS) and Weintraub coping orientations to problems experienced (COPE). Chi-square, Pearson correlation coefficient, and independent t-test were used for data analysis.ResultsThere was inverse correlation between burden and problem-focused coping strategy about caregivers of both groups (r = − 0.29,P < 0.01). There was a direct correlation between burden and emotional-oriented and less benefit and not effective coping strategies, but it was not significant. The independent t-test demonstrated caregivers’ burden is not significantly different between bipolar mood disorder and schizophrenia.ConclusionsSocial support and health services to caregivers of chronic schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are necessary. Training effective coping style reduces perceived caring burden.