bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A comprehensive study based on exosome-related immunosuppression genes and tumor microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yang Zhan , Li Xinmiao , Pan Chaoran , Li Yifei , Lin Lifan , Jin Yan , Zheng Jianjian , Yu Zhengping 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
Exosomes play an important role in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the mechanisms of tumor immune escape in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It is known that immunosuppressive genes, involved in the processes of tumor immunosuppression, are associated with cancer progression. This study aimed to explore the prognostic values of exosome-related immunosuppression genes (ERIGs) in HCC.

Methods
The RNA-seq transcriptome data of 374 HCC patients were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The TCGA cohort was randomly divided into the training cohort and validation cohort in a 1:1 ratio. WGCNA analysis and Pearson correlation analysis were used to identify ERIGs. The Lasso regression method was used to construct a 5-ERIG signature. The prognostic value of our signature was examined in the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University (FAHWMU) cohort.

Results
Univariate Cox regression analysis was used to screen prognostic ERIGs. Subsequently, these prognostic ERIGs were included in Lasso regression analyses to identify 5 key ERIGs (ASAP1, IARS1, GTF3C2, TPD5L2 and SLC52A2) and construct a 5-ERIG signature. The patients in the low-risk group had better prognosis than those in the high-risk group. Univariate and multivariate cox regression revealed that risk score was an independent prognostic risk factor of HCC. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) showed that this signature was highly associated with TME-related pathways. Subsequent analyses revealed the potential role of the signature in regulating the TME in HCC. In addition, a lower immunotherapy score was found in patients with high risk-score. Of note, this signature was confirmed to have a good performance in predicting HCC prognosis in the FAHWMU cohort. Moreover, knockdown of 5 ERIGs of this signature contributed to the suppression the Hep3B cell proliferation.

Conclusions
We generated a novel prognostic 5-ERIG signature to accurately predict the prognosis of patients with HCC, and this signature may serve as an indicator of immunotherapy for HCC.
Long-term self-reported health and disability after COVID-19 in public employees
Authors: Kröönström Linda Ashman , Krause Johanna , Larsson Simon B. , Sigström Robert , Sunnerhagen Katharina Stibrant 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
Although the symptomatology has been assessed in multiple studies among persons recovering from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), less is known regarding long-term general health and disability. We aimed to assess long-term self-reported disability in public employees after predominantly mild COVID-19 in comparison with individuals who had negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test results.

Methods
Public employees within Region Västra Götaland were offered tests to identify SARS-CoV-2 infection (n = 56,221) and were invited to complete an online survey that included the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule. Questionnaires were sent out between January 26 and March 5, 2021. A total of 14,222 (25.3%) employees responded, of which 10,194 (18%) were included (women n = 8749, 85.8%). Of these, 7185 (70.5%) participants had a negative PCR test result (controls). A total of 1425 (14%) had a positive PCR result and were categorized in the sub-acute phase (4–12 weeks post COVID-19), and 1584 (15.5%) had a positive PCR test and were categorized in the post COVID-19 phase (> 12 weeks).

Results
Fifty-two percent of controls rated disability of varying degrees, versus 73% and 64% of participants in the sub-acute and post COVID-19 phase, respectively. Being “emotionally affected” was the most frequently reported disability in the sub-acute phase, the post COVID-19 phase, as well as in controls. The proportion of participants reporting difficulties for 20–30 days was higher in the sub-acute phase than in the post COVID-19 phase (27.9% vs. 21.8%, p < 0.001) as well as in a comparison between participants in the post COVID-19 phase and controls (21.8% vs 14.2%, p < 0.001). Compared with controls, severe disability was more common in the post COVID-19 phase among both women (15.8% vs. 10.7%,), and men (9.8% vs. 6.8%).

Conclusions
Disability was present in all groups; however, reported disability was greater in the sub-acute phase than in the post COVID-19 phase. The higher levels of disability reported in the COVID-19 patient population may indicate a persisting need for rehabilitation and recovery. In general, women reported a greater degree of disability than men in the sub-acute and post COVID-19 phases.
Messaging preferences among Florida caregivers participating in focus groups who had not yet accepted the HPV vaccine for their 11- to 12-year-old child
Authors: Staras Stephanie A. S. , Bylund Carma L. , Mullis Michaela D. , Thompson Lindsay A. , Hall Jaclyn M. , Hansen Marta D. , Fisher Carla L. 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
In the United States, human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates remain low. The President’s Cancer Panel suggests that effective messaging about the HPV vaccination focus on the vaccine’s safety, efficacy, ability to prevent cancer, and recommendation at ages 11- to 12-years. We aimed to develop messages about HPV vaccine that include the President Cancer Panel’s suggestions and were acceptable to caregivers of adolescents.

Methods
From August to October 2020, we conducted one-hour, Zoom videoconference focus groups with caregivers who lived in Florida, had an 11- to 12-year-old child, and had not had any of their children receive the HPV vaccine. Focus group moderators asked caregivers to react to three videos of clinician (i.e., MD, DO, APRN, PA) recommendations and three text message reminders. Thematic analysis was conducted using the constant comparative method and led by one author with qualitative analysis expertise. Two additional authors validated findings.

Results
Caregivers (n = 25 in six groups) were primarily non-Hispanic white (84%) and educated (64% had at least an Associate’s degree). Approximately a third of caregivers had delayed (44%) or decided against a vaccine for their child (36%). Caregivers described six preferred message approaches: recognize caregivers’ autonomy, balanced benefits and risks, trustworthy sources, increased feasibility of appointment scheduling, information prior to decision point, and preferred personalized information. Caregivers expressed a desire to have the follow-up doses mentioned in the introduction.

Conclusions
HPV vaccine messages, whether delivered by a clinician or via text message, will be more acceptable to caregivers if they approach HPV vaccination as the caregivers’ decision, and include information from trusted sources to help caregivers make an informed choice.
Contact network analysis of COVID-19 Delta variant outbreak in urban China —based on 2,050 confirmed cases in Xi’an, China
Authors: Zhangbo Yang , Zheng Chen , Hui Wang 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
The purpose of this paper is to study how the Delta variant spread in a China city, and to what extent the non-pharmaceutical prevention measures of local government be effective by reviewing the contact network of COVID-19 cases in Xi’an, China.

Methods
We organize the case reports of the Shaanxi Health Commission into a database by text coding and convert them into a network matrix. Then we construct a dynamic contact network for the corresponding analysis and calculate network indicators. we analyze the cases’ dynamic contact network structure and intervals between diagnosis time and isolation time by using data visualization, network analysis method, and Ordinary Least Square (OLS) regression.

Results
The contact network for this outbreak in Xi’an is very sparse, with a density of less than 0.0001. The contact network is a scale-free network. The average degree centrality is 0.741 and the average PageRank score is 0.0005. The network generated from a single source of infection contains 1371 components. We construct three variables of intervals and analyze the trend of intervals during the outbreak. The mean interval (interval 1) between case diagnosis time and isolation time is − 3.9 days. The mean of the interval (interval 2) between the infector’s diagnosis time and the infectee’s diagnosis time is 4.2 days. The mean of the interval (interval 3) between infector isolation time and infectee isolation time is 2.9 days. Among the three intervals, only interval 1 has a significant positive correlation with degree centrality.

Conclusions
By integrating COVID-19 case reports of a Chinese city, we construct a contact network to analyze the dispersion of the outbreak. The network is a scale-free network with multiple hidden pathways that are not detected. The intervals of patients in this outbreak decreased compared to the beginning of the outbreak in 2020. City lockdown has a significant effect on the intervals that can affect patients’ network centrality. Our study highlights the value of case report text. By linking different reports, we can quickly analyze the spread of the epidemic in an urban area.
Social capital and wellbeing among Australian adults’ during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study
Authors: Green Heidi , Fernandez Ritin , Moxham Lorna , MacPhail Catherine 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
COVID-19 has created global disruption, with governments across the world taking rapid action to limit the spread of the virus. Physical distancing and lockdowns abruptly changed living conditions for many, posing specific challenges of social isolation and lack of connectedness due to being physically and socially isolated from family and friends. Social capital is the bonding of individuals within a society that facilitates and shapes social interactions. The aim of this study was to qualitatively explore the impact that existing social capital has on Australians’ experience of lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic and the effect this has had on their wellbeing and quality of life.

Methods
Participants from various socioeconomic areas within Australia were purposively selected to participate in semi-structured interviews conducted via videoconferencing or telephone. Inductive thematic analysis of the data was undertaken.

Results
A total of 20 participants were interviewed ranging in age from 21 to 65 years, including 50% (n = 10) females, 40% (n = 8) males, 5% (n = 1) non-binary and 5% (n = 1) transgender. Three main themes emerged from the analysis of the data: No person is an island; Social engagement; and Loneliness and isolation. Individuals who resided in low socioeconomic areas, those who lived alone and had reduced social support expressed feelings of poorer wellbeing.

Conclusions
This study describes the lived-experiences of the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on Australians’ social capital and wellbeing. The findings highlight the need for interventions to increase social support, social cohesion, and social connectedness, especially among Australians from low socioeconomic areas, to enhance their overall wellbeing.
The non-linear link between remnant cholesterol and diabetic retinopathy: a cross-sectional study in patients with type 2 diabetic mellitus
Authors: Pan Wushan , Han Yong , Hu Haofei , He Yongcheng 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Objective
Research on residual cholesterol (RC) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) remains limited. As a result, the current study was designed to investigate the relationship between RC and DR in patients with type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM).

Methods
This cross-sectional study consecutively and non-selectively collected a total of 1964 type 2 diabetic mellitus patients in two hospitals in Taiwan from April 2002 to November 2004. A binary logistic regression model was then used to assess the independent relationship between RC level and DR and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). A generalized additive model (GAM) and smooth curve fitting were used to investigate the actual shape of the curve between them. It was stated that the data had been uploaded to the website:https://journals.plos.org/plosone.

Results
The average age of the participants was 64.10+/− 11.32 years old, with 42.92% being male. The prevalence of DR and PDR was 35.13 and 18.13%, respectively. The mean RC level was 30.57 ± 14.60 mg/dL. We found no significant association between RC and DR (OR = 1.001; 95% CI 0.991, 1.011) or PDR (OR = 1.008; 95% CI 0.995, 1.021) based on a fully adjusted logistic regression model. Results remained robust across a series of sensitivity analyses. However, a non-linear relationship was detected between RC and DR. Using a two-piece logistic regression model and a recursive algorithm, we found an inflection point of RC was 13.0 mg/dL. A 1-unit increase in the RC level was associated with 19.4% greater adjusted odds of DR (OR = 1.194; 95% CI 1.070, 1.333) when RC < 13.0 mg/dL. There was also a non-linear relationship between RC and PDR, and the inflection point of the RC was 39.0 mg/dL. When RC < 39.0 mg/dL, a 1-unit increase in the RC level was associated with 2.1% greater adjusted odds of PDR (OR = 1.021; 95% CI 1.004, 1.038).

Conclusion
This study demonstrates a non-linear relationship between RC and DR or PDR in type 2 diabetic mellitus patients. Our findings provide new insights into advancing research on the link between RC and DR or PDR.
Immediate and Delayed Post Space Preparations in Endodontically Treated Teeth: A Scoping Review
Authors: Mahmoudi Sadaf , Iranmanesh Pedram , Khazaei Saber , Jahromi Maryam Zare 
Published: December 2022

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of the present review was to identify the effect of the post-space preparation (PSP) timing (immediate or delayed) on endodontically treated teeth.MethodsAll studies in any language that compared the effect of immediate versus delayed PSP on the outcomes of an endodontically treated tooth were searched in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, ProQuest, WorldCat, and Google Scholar databases by two independent researchers until February 12, 2022. Studies assessing merely the immediate or delayed PSP were excluded. A descriptive analysis was performed to evaluate the study design and the characteristics of the included studies.ResultsThe initial search yielded 2612 records, of which 68 were included. Except for one randomized controlled trial, all were in vitro. The evaluated variables were apical/coronal microleakage (n = 48/n = 1), post-bond strength (n = 8), bacterial infiltration (n = 7), presence of voids (n = 3), apical extrusion and residual of filling material (n = 1), and post-operative pain (n = 1). The number of publications had steady growth per year and fast growth per decade. "Post-space preparation" was the most popular keywords.ConclusionsThe present review highlights the need for further investigations due to the various design of studies, controversial results, and an inadequate number of randomized controlled trials.Trial registrationRetrospectively registered. Open Science (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/2YTM6).
Patients’ awareness regarding the quality of their oral hygiene: development and validation of a new measurement instrument
Authors: Eidenhardt Zdenka , Busse Sebastian , Margraf-Stiksrud Jutta , Deinzer Renate 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
The present research aimed to develop and validate a standardised survey instrument for the assessment of patients' awareness of the quality of their oral hygiene performance.

Methods
A digital questionnaire was developed that assesses both patients' naïve self-perceptions of oral cleanliness (SPOCn) after tooth brushing and patients' perceptions after being informed how oral cleanliness may be captured in dentistry (SPOCd). Three studies (N = 56 adults, N = 66 adolescents and one of their parents, N = 24 university students) assessed the instrument’s feasibility (patient reports), reliability (internal consistency), validity (correlation with other constructs; sensitivity to manipulation of actual tooth brushing), and the correlation with actual oral cleanliness after tooth brushing.

Results
All study groups accepted the questionnaire well; average answering times were less than 5 min. Cronbach’s α exceeds 0.90; correlational analyses support the discriminant validity regarding oral hygiene related self-efficacy expectations and stages of change; manipulation of oral hygiene behaviour results in the expected changes of SPOC scores. Patients’ SPOC correlate only moderately with actual oral cleanliness. The comparison between SPOCd scores and actual oral cleanliness indicate that they considerably overestimate their oral hygiene performance.

Conclusions
The SPOC questionnaire is an easy-to-use, well-accepted, reliable and valid instrument for the assessment of patients’ awareness of the quality of their oral hygiene for research and clinical purposes. The results of the questionnaire may help to reveal unrealistic self-perceptions of patients regarding their oral hygiene. It can raise their awareness of the need to improve their skills and/or efforts in this regard.
Trial registration The third study was an interventional study and was registered in the appropriate national register (www.drks.de; ID: DRKS00018781; date of registration: 12/09/2019).
Efficacy, safety and therapeutic mechanism of Shen-Qi Xiao-Tan formula in the treatment of peripheral atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial protocol
Authors: Leng Yulin , Fu Xiaoxu , Qian Lisen , Li Qiqi , Gao Hong , Xie Hongyan , Xie Chunguang 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
Peripheral atherosclerosis is a common macrovascular complication of diabetes, but the treatment is limited. Chinese herbal medicine is the complementary and alternative therapy to delay the progression of atherosclerosis and reduce blood glucose and lipids. Shen-Qi Xiao-Tan (SQXT) formula is one of the prescriptions commonly used to treat diabetic peripheral atherosclerosis, but there is still a lack of high-quality evidence-based evidence.

Methods
This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled add-on trial that is expected to enroll 114 diabetic patients with peripheral atherosclerosis. After a 2-week run-in period, participants will been randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio and receive 12 weeks of usual treatment and SQXT formula (treatment group) or usual treatment and placebo (control group). The primary outcome is the change in carotid intima-media thickness from baseline to endpoint. The secondary outcomes are the structure and function of peripheral arteries, blood glucose and lipids, traditional Chinese medicine syndrome score, and quality of life, and safety and endpoint events are evaluated. To explore the therapeutic mechanism through oxidative stress, inflammation, and advanced glycation end products, and lipidomics will be used to screen for biomarkers for diagnosis and efficacy evaluation.

Discussion
The objective of this trial is to evaluate the efficacy, safety and therapeutic mechanism of SQXT formula in the treatment of diabetic peripheral atherosclerosis. It will obtain high-quality evidence-based evidence and promote the treatment of diabetic macroangiopathy and the research and development of new drugs.

Trial registration
This trial is registered on Chinese Clinical Trials.gov with number ChiCTR2100047189 on 10 Jun 2021, and has been approved by the Ethical Review Committee of Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine with number 2020KL-080.
Homeopathy for seasonal allergic rhinitis: rationale, design and methods of the three-armed randomized controlled HOMEOSAR trial
Authors: Siewert J. , Teut M. , Gaertner K. , Binting S. , Eberhardt C. , Ortiz M. , Grabowska W. , Reinhold T. , Roll S. , Stoeckigt B. , Willich S. N. , Cramer H. , Brinkhaus B. 
Published: December 2022

Abstract
Background
Patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) frequently use homeopathic therapy. Although there is some evidence that homeopathy may be effective in treating symptoms of SAR, there is a lack of high-quality clinical trials. Therefore, the aim of the homeopathy for SAR (HOMEOSAR) trial is to determine the efficacy of individualized or standardized homeopathic drug treatment compared to placebo regarding rhinitis-related quality of life in patients with SAR.

Methods
This randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, three-armed intervention study will be conducted at two university hospital outpatient clinics for complementary and integrative medicine in Berlin and in 12 office-based practices specializing in homeopathic treatment in Germany. A total of 270 patients with clinical symptoms of SAR and positive allergy test to birch and grass pollen will receive homeopathic anamnesis and subsequently be randomized into (a) standardized homeopathic drug treatment with Galphimia Glauca (potency D6), (b) individualized homeopathic drug treatment (D6), or (c) placebo. All three groups can receive on-demand rescue medication as needed. Treatment will consist of two consultations and daily intake of the study medication for 4 weeks during the pollen season. The primary outcome is the mean overall score of the Rhinitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) in weeks 3 and 4, analyzed using analysis of covariance (adjusted for baseline RQLQ overall score and study center). A closed testing procedure will be used to control the overall type I error comparing the 3 treatment groups. Secondary outcomes include the overall RQLQ and its seven domain scores, responder status (decrease in RQLQ overall score of at least 0.5 points compared to the baseline value), use of rescue medication, intensity of total and individual SAR symptoms based on visual analog scale, generic health-related quality of life, safety, utilization of health care resources and associated costs. In addition, a qualitative data analysis is planned.

Conclusion
The results of our study will contribute to clarifying the possible therapeutic effects of homeopathic drug treatment for patients with SAR.

Trial registration
This study has been registered in the German Clinical Trial Registry with trial ID DRKS00018081 on June 09, 2020.