bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 needs no passport: the interrelationship of the COVID-19 pandemic along the U.S.-Mexico border
Authors: Filosa John N. , Botello-Mares Adrian , Goodman-Meza David 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Objectives
To investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic along the U.S.-Mexico border region and evaluate the relationship of COVID-19 related mortality, socioeconomic status, and vaccination.

Methods
We used indirect standardization to age-adjust mortality rates and calculate standardized mortality ratios [SMR] in both countries. To examine the impact of socioeconomic factors, we calculated the Human Development Index (HDI) by county/municipality. We performed linear regression to understand the relationship between mortality, vaccination, and HDI. We used choropleth maps to visualize the trends seen in the region.

Results
Between January 22nd, 2020 and December 1st, 2021, surges of cases and deaths were similar in dyad cities along the U.S.-Mexico border visualizing the interconnectedness of the region. Mortality was higher in U.S. counties along the border compared to the national average (SMR 1.17, 95% CI 1.15–1.19). In Mexico, border counties had a slightly lower mortality to the national average (SMR 0.94, 95% CI 0.93–0.95). In U.S. border states, SMR was shown to negatively correlate with human development index (HDI), a socioeconomic proxy, resulting in a higher SMR in the border region compared to the rest of the counties. Conversely in Mexican border states, there was no association between SMR and HDI. Related to vaccination, U.S. counties along the border were vaccinated at a greater percentage than non-border counties and vaccination was negatively correlated with HDI. In Mexico, states along the border had a higher ratio of vaccinations per person than non-border states.

Conclusions
The U.S.-Mexico border is a divide of incredible importance not only to immigration but as a region with unique social, economic, environmental, and epidemiological factors that impact disease transmission. We investigated how the COVID-19 pandemic followed trends of previously studied diseases in the corridor such as tuberculosis, HIV, and influenza H1N1. These data state how targeted intervention along the U.S.-Mexico border region is a necessity when confronting COVID-19 and have implications for future control of infectious diseases in the region.
Comparison of pre-chop technique using a reverse chopper and classic stop-and-chop technique in the treatment of high myopia associated with nuclear cataract
Authors: Yang Ke , Li Jiaxin , Zhang Weihua , Liu Zhanjiang , Song Chenjie , Zhao Yang 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the pre-chop technique using a novel reverse chopper vs. the classic stop-and-chop technique in phacoemulsification for patients with high myopia and associated grade III–IV nuclear cataracts.

Methods
In this prospective cohort study, a total of 44 consecutive patients (44 eyes) with grade III–IV nuclear cataracts who were admitted to our hospital for cataract surgery between March 2018 and September 2018 were enrolled. All patients had ocular axial length > 27 mm and myopic refraction more than -10 diopters. Patients were randomly divided into a pre-chop group and stop-and-chop group using a randomization table. Nucleus splitting was performed surgically in both groups using either the pre-chop technique with reverse chopper or the classic stop-and-chop technique.

Results
Postoperative visual acuity was significantly improved in both groups compared with preoperative values. Significantly better visual acuity, lower degree of corneal edema and lower rates of corneal endothelial cell loss were observed in the pre-chop group compared to those in the classic stop-and-chop group. No complications were reported in either group.

Conclusions
In treating patients with high myopia associated with grade III–IV cataracts, the pre-chop technique using a reverse chopper reduces damage to corneal endothelial cells and improves visual acuity better than the classic stop-and-chop technique.
Prevalence and associated factors of erectile dysfunction in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus in eastern Sudan
Authors: Omar Saeed M. , Musa Imad R. , Idrees Maysoon B. , Abdelbagi Omer , Adam Ishag 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global health threat and burden that is associated with many chronic complications. Erectile dysfunction (ED) among patients with DM is one of these complications. There is no published data on ED in Sudan; hence, we conducted this study to evaluate the prevalence of ED and the associated factors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in eastern Sudan.

Methods
We performed a cross-sectional study. Data on blood glucose level, cholesterol level, anthropometric and demographic characteristics, results of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire, and clinical history were obtained.

Results
A total of 334 men with T2DM with a median (interquartile range [IQR]) age of 55.0 (±10.0) years were enrolled in the study. The median (IQR) of the duration of DM was 7.0 (±8) years, and 260 (77.8%) had uncontrolled T2DM. The median (IQR) body mass index was 24.5 (±4.9) kg/m2.
Of the participants, 81 (24.3%) had severe ED, 52 (15.6%) had moderate ED, 75 (22.5%) had mild to moderate ED, and 63 (13.9%) had mild ED. Of the 334 men, 271 (81.1%) had ED. Logistic regression analysis showed that age (adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01–1.14), duration of DM (AOR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.06–1.51), and cholesterol levels (AOR = 3.53, 95% CI = 1.75–7.11) were positively associated with ED. Moreover, poor glycaemic control (AOR = 3.38, 95% CI = 1.70–6.71, P < 0.001) was significantly associated with ED.

Conclusion
There is a high prevalence of ED among patients with T2DM in eastern Sudan. Age, duration of DM, and cholesterol were positively associated with ED.
The effects of botulinum toxin A injection on the lateral pterygoid muscle in patients with a painful temporomandibular joint click: a randomized clinical trial study
Authors: Rezazadeh Fahimeh , Esnaashari Negin , Azad Azita , Emad Sara 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBackgroundTemporomandibular disorder (TMD) is the main cause of non-dental pain in orofacial area. The most common symptoms of TMD are joint pain, joint sound and limitation of jaw function. Botulinum toxin (BTX) injection is considered a potential treatment for TMD due to its pain-relieving properties and its ability to reduce muscle activity. Most of the studies are case series and further investigations are required to prove the efficacy of this treatment modality. Thus, in this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of BTX-A injection on the lateral pterygoid (LP) muscle and to evaluate its efficacy regarding TMD.Materials and methodsThirty-eight patients (19 women and 19 men; mean age of 26.53 years) with painful unilateral temporomandibular joint click and LP muscle tenderness were enrolled in this study. They were divided into two groups; one received an extraoral BTX-A injection in the LP muscle, and the other received a placebo injection. Pain severity, jaw movements, click severity, and Helkimo index were recorded at the first visit, as well as one week, one month, and three months after the intervention. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance andt-tests.ResultsThe results showed that click severity was not significantly different between the BTX-A and placebo groups (P = 0.07). Pain and Helkimo index decreased significantly in the BTX group (P = 0.00 andP = 0.006, respectively); however, there was no significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.22 andP = 1, respectively). There was a significant difference in lateral movements between the groups (P = 0.00) but not in protrusive movement (P = 0.095).ConclusionsIt can be concluded that although some studies have stated that BTX injection can make the click sound disappear, in this study, we did not find a significant difference between the two groups. Furthermore, our results showed that click and pain severity decreased, but the difference was not statistically significant. Therefore, further studies with a higher dosage of BTX and more participants are recommended.Trial registrationThe local Ethics Committee of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences approved this research (IR.SUMS.REC. 01/10/2018 and IRCT20130521013406N3).
The relationship between the severity of perimenstrual symptoms and a regular exercise habit in Japanese young women: a cross-sectional online survey
Authors: Mizuta Rami , Maeda Noriaki , Komiya Makoto , Suzuki Yuta , Tashiro Tsubasa , Kaneda Kazuki , Tsutsumi Shogo , Ishihara Honoka , Kuroda Sayo , Urabe Yukio 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Experiencing perimenstrual symptoms is a major health concern for young women. Women in the reproductive age experience menstruation about once a month, and many experience perimenstrual symptoms. Drug therapies such as painkillers (commonly used) and hormonal medications help to achieve symptomatic relief from perimenstrual symptoms. However, many women are concerned about tolerance and compliance of the drugs used to treat perimenstrual symptoms and lack awareness on how to cope with perimenstrual symptoms. If the association between exercise habits and the severity of symptoms is emphasized in young women, methods for coping with perimenstrual symptoms can be established, not relying only on pharmaceuticals. The objective of this study was to determine the differences in the severity of perimenstrual symptoms in young Japanese women with and without a regular exercise habit.

Methods
A cross-sectional study using an online survey was sent among 500 Japanese women aged 18–25 years. The severity of perimenstrual symptoms was assessed using the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ). The differences in MDQ scores between those with and without exercise habits (exercise for more than 30 min for 2 days a week) were compared using the chi-square test and Mann–Whitney U test. The logistic regression analysis detected subscales of the premenstrual and menstrual symptoms affected by an exercise habit.

Results
282 (56.4%) young Japanese women were answered this survey. Respondents were divided into the exercise group (n = 157) and the non-exercise group (n = 125). The exercise group had significantly low premenstrual and menstrual MDQ scores. The results of the logistic regression analysis stated that the subscale related to negative emotion before menstruation was associated with an exercise habit. In the analysis performed during menstruation, a statistically significant association was detected between an exercise habit and a behavioral change such as avoiding interaction with others.

Conclusions
This study suggested that exercise habits may reduce the severity of perimenstrual symptoms and could help to develop a non-pharmacological coping strategy. In addition, this study provides useful information for young women who want to prevent perimenstrual symptoms but do not have an exercise habit. Further, it may encourage young women to start exercising.
Perceived social support and coping style as mediators between resilience and health-related quality of life in women newly diagnosed with breast cancer: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhou Kaina , Ning Fan , Wang Xiao , Wang Wen , Han Dongfang , Li Xiaomei 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBackgroundBreast cancer may impair health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We examined the mediating roles of perceived social support (PSS) and coping style (CS) in the relationship between resilience and HRQoL in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients.MethodsFollowing a cross-sectional design, 431 patients completed a survey at two hospitals in Shaanxi Province, China. Four validated self-report measures assessed HRQoL, psychological resilience, PSS, and CS. A one-samplet-test analyzed differences between resilience, PSS, and CS in breast cancer patients and the corresponding norm. Multivariate linear regression analyzed the independent predictors of HRQoL. The mediating roles of PSS and CS between resilience and HRQoL were investigated using structural equation modeling (SEM).ResultsParticipants had significantly lower scores for resilience and PSS, and higher scores for the avoidance and resignation CSs than their corresponding norm. SEM analysis showed resilience had significant direct effects on PSS (Bs: 0.59, 95% CI 0.49, 0.68,P = 0.003), CS (confrontation: 0.53 (0.44, 0.62),P = 0.001; resignation: − 0.66 (− 0.74, − 0.57),P = 0.002), and HRQoL (Bs range from 0.44 to 0.63,P < 0.05). Resilience had significant indirect effects (Bs range from 0.09 to 0.27), and PSS and CS had significant direct effects on HRQoL (P < 0.05).ConclusionsNewly diagnosed breast cancer patients had lower resilience and PSS, and higher negative CSs, suggesting that PSS and CS mediated the influence of resilience on HRQoL. A multimodal intervention program focusing on PSS and CS might improve the positive influences of resilience on HRQoL in breast cancer patients.
Health care workers’ perspectives on care for patients with injection drug use associated infective endocarditis (IDU-IE)
Authors: Butt Saira , McClean Mitchell , Turner Jane , Roth Sarah , Rollins Angela L. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Despite high morbidity and mortality, patients with injection drug use associated infective endocarditis (IDU-IE) lack standardized care, and experience prolonged hospitalization and variable substance use disorder (SUD) management.
Our study’s objective was to elicit perspectives of health care workers (HCWs) who deliver care to this population by understanding their perceived patient, provider, and system-level resources and barriers.

Methods
This qualitative study included interviews of HCWs providing care to patients with IDU-IE from January 2017 to December 2019 at a single Midwest academic center. Based on electronic medical record queries to determine high and low rates of referral to SUD treatment, HCWs were selected using stratified random sampling followed by convenience sampling of non-physician HCWs and a patient. Study participants were recruited via email and verbal consent was obtained. The final sample included 11 hospitalists, 3 specialists (including 2 cardiovascular surgery providers), 3 case managers, 2 social workers, 1 nurse, and 1 patient. Qualitative semi-structured interviews explored challenges and resources related to caring for this population. Qualitative Data Analysis (QDA) Minor Lite was used for thematic data using an inductive approach.

Results
Three major thematic categories emerged relative to patient-level barriers (e.g., pain control, difficult patient interactions, social determinants of health), provider-level barriers (e.g., inequity, expectations for recovery, varying levels of hope, communication style, prescribing medication for SUD), and system-level barriers (e.g., repeat surgery, placement, resources for SUD and mental health). The need to address underlying SUD was a prominent theme.

Conclusion
Practical steps we can take to improve treatment for this population include training and coaching HCWs on a more person-centered approach to communication and transparent decision-making around pain management, surgery decisions, and expectations for SUD treatment.
Safety and tolerability of pirfenidone in asbestosis: a prospective multicenter study
Authors: Miedema Jelle R. , Moor Catharina C. , Veltkamp Marcel , Baart Sara , Lie Natascha S. L. , Grutters Jan C. , Wijsenbeek Marlies S. , Mostard Rémy L. M. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Pirfenidone slows down disease progression in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Recent studies suggest a treatment effect in progressive pulmonary fibrosis other than IPF. However, the safety and effectiveness of pirfenidone in asbestosis patients remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the safety, tolerability and efficacy of pirfenidone in asbestosis patients with a progressive phenotype.

Methods
This was a multicenter prospective study in asbestosis patients with progressive lung function decline. After a 12-week observational period, patients were treated with pirfenidone 801 mg three times a day. Symptoms and adverse events were evaluated weekly and patients completed online patient-reported outcomes measures. At baseline, start of therapy, 12 and 24 weeks, in hospital measurement of lung function and a 6 min walking test were performed. Additionally, patients performed daily home spirometry measurements.

Results
In total, 10 patients were included of whom 6 patients (66.7%) experienced any adverse events during the study period. Most frequently reported adverse events were fatigue, rash, anorexia and cough, which mostly occurred intermittently and were reported as not very bothersome. No significant changes in hospital pulmonary function (forced vital capacity (FVC), diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO), 6 min walking test or patient-reported outcomes measures before and after start of pirfenidone were found. Home spirometry demonstrated a FVC decline in 12 weeks before start of pirfenidone, while FVC did not decline during the 24 week treatment phase, but this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions
Treatment with pirfenidone in asbestosis has an acceptable safety and tolerability profile and home spirometry data suggest this antifibrotic treatment might attenuate FVC decline in progressive asbestosis.
Trial registration MEC-2018-1392; EudraCT number: 2018-001781-41
SEVA-Cpf1, a CRISPR-Cas12a vector for genome editing in cyanobacteria
Authors: Baldanta Sara , Guevara Govinda , Navarro-Llorens Juana María 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic autotrophs that have tremendous potential for fundamental research and industrial applications due to their high metabolic plasticity and ability to grow using CO2 and sunlight. CRISPR technology using Cas9 and Cpf1 has been applied to different cyanobacteria for genome manipulations and metabolic engineering. Despite significant advances with genome editing in several cyanobacteria strains, the lack of proper genetic toolboxes is still a limiting factor compared to other model laboratory species. Among the limitations, it is essential to have versatile plasmids that could ease the benchwork when using CRISPR technology.

Results
In the present study, several CRISPR-Cpf1 vectors were developed for genetic manipulations in cyanobacteria using SEVA plasmids. SEVA collection is based on modular vectors that enable the exchangeability of diverse elements (e.g. origins of replication and antibiotic selection markers) and the combination with many cargo sequences for varied end-applications. Firstly, using SEVA vectors containing the broad host range RSF1010 origin we demonstrated that these vectors are replicative not only in model cyanobacteria but also in a new cyanobacterium specie, Chroococcidiopsis sp., which is different from those previously published. Then, we constructed SEVA vectors by harbouring CRISPR elements and showed that they can be easily assimilated not only by conjugation, but also by natural transformation. Finally, we used our SEVA-Cpf1 tools to delete the nblA gene in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, demonstrating that our plasmids can be applied for CRISPR-based genome editing technology.

Conclusions
The results of this study provide new CRISPR-based vectors based on the SEVA (Standard European Vector Architecture) collection that can improve editing processes using the Cpf1 nuclease in cyanobacteria.
Dual-functional alginate and collagen–based injectable hydrogel for the treatment of cancer and its metastasis
Authors: Hwang Juyoung , An Eun-Koung , Zhang Wei , Kim Hyo Jeong , Eom Youngho , Jin Jun-O. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
Immunotherapies have been gaining attention for the prevention of cancer recurrence and metastasis. Cancer immunotherapy can induce memory cells to target cancer-specific antigens and, thus, selectively kill cancer cells. However, there are difficulties in inducing cancer antigen–specific immunity due to limited knowledge regarding cancer antigens. In this study, we synthesized a dual-functional hydrogel to induce antigen generation and immune activation.

Results
To elicit a cancer self-antigen–specific immune response, we synthesized an alginate-collagen–based injectable hydrogel, called thermally responsive hydrogel (pTRG), which was incorporated with indocyanine green and the immune stimulator polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly I:C). pTRG was evaluated for its anticancer and anti-metastatic effects against CT-26 carcinoma and 4T1 breast tumor in mice by combining photothermal therapy (PTT) and immunotherapy. Near-infrared (NIR) irradiation promoted temperature elevation in pTRG, consequently exerting a therapeutic effect on mouse tumors. Lung metastasis was prevented in cured CT-26 tumor-injected mice following pTRG treatment via cancer antigen–specific T cell immunity. Moreover, pTRG successfully eliminated the original tumor in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice via PTT and protected them from lung metastasis. To further evaluate the carrier function of TRGs, different types of immunotherapeutic molecules were incorporated into TRGs, which led to the effective elimination of the first CT-26 tumor and the prevention of lung metastasis.

Conclusions
Our data demonstrate that TRG is a efficient material not only for treating primary tumors but also for preventing metastasis and recurrence.
Elaborate design of shell component for manipulating the sustained release behavior from core–shell nanofibres
Authors: Liu Yubo , Chen Xiaohong , Gao Yuhang , Yu Deng-Guang , Liu Ping 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background
The diversified combination of nanostructure and material has received considerable attention from researchers to exploit advanced functional materials. In drug delivery systems, the hydrophilicity and sustained–release drug properties are in opposition. Thus, difficulties remain in the simultaneous improve sustained–release drug properties and increase the hydrophilicity of materials.

Methods
In this work, we proposed a modified triaxial electrospinning strategy to fabricate functional core–shell fibres, which could elaborate design of shell component for manipulating the sustained-release drug. Cellulose acetate (CA) was designed as the main polymeric matrix, whereas polyethylene glycol (PEG) was added as a hydrophilic material in the middle layer. Cur, as a model drug, was stored in the inner layer.

Results
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) demonstrated that the cylindrical F2–F4 fibres had a clear core–shell structure. The model drug Cur in fibres was verified in an amorphous form during the X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, and Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results indicated good compatibility with the CA matrix. The water contact angle test showed that functional F2–F4 fibres had a high hydrophilic property in 120 s and the control sample F1 needed over 0.5 h to obtain hydrophilic property. In the initial stage of moisture intrusion into fibres, the quickly dissolved PEG component guided the water molecules and rapidly eroded the internal structure of functional fibres. The good hydrophilicity of F2–F4 fibres brought relatively excellent swelling rate around 4600%. Blank outer layer of functional F2 fibres with 1% PEG created an exciting opportunity for providing a 96 h sustained-release drug profile, while F3 and F4 fibres with over 3% PEG provided a 12 h modified drug release profile to eliminate tailing–off effect.

Conclusion
Here, the functional F2–F4 fibres had been successfully produced by using the advanced modified triaxial electrospinning nanotechnology with different polymer matrices. The simple strategy in this work has remarkable potential to manipulate hydrophilicity and sustained release of drug carriers, meantime it can also enrich the preparation approaches of functional nanomaterials.

Graphical Abstract