bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
YTHDC1 Promotes Stemness Maintenance and Malignant Progression in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Weng Junquan , Fan Haidong , Liu Huijuan , Tang Su , Zheng Yuyan
Published: November 2022

Background. YTH domain containing 1 (YTHDC1), an N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification reading protein, plays a key role in regulating RNA translation and degradation. However, the role of YTHDC1 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cancer stem cells remains largely unknown. This study is aimed at investigating the role of YTHDC1 in HNSCC and exploring its role in regulating cancer stem cells. Methods. RNA sequencing was used to detect differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between SCC9 spheres and SCC9 cells and to uncover molecular pathways and target molecules associated with CSCs. We detected YTHDC1 expression in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database data and clinical samples. Subsequently, YTHDC1 gene suppression assays were performed in HNSCC cell lines to investigate the effect of YTHDC1 on tumor cell stemness maintenance, proliferation, and migration capacity. To further confirm the role of YTHDC1 in regulating cancer stem cells in HNSCC, we analyzed online HNSCC single-cell transcriptomic data to investigate YTHDC1 expression patterns at the single-cell level and the correlation of these levels with the expression of stem cell markers. Results. YTHDC1 expression levels were significantly upregulated in SCC9 spheres, and YTHDC1 was aberrantly expressed in HNSCC tumor tissues. The increased YTHDC1 expression was closely correlated with the clinical characteristics of HNSCC patients. YTHDC1 regulates the malignant phenotype of HNSCC in both in vivo and in vitro studies. Further single-cell transcriptomic data analysis revealed that YTHDC1 positively correlated with malignant epithelial cell stemness capacity at the single-cell level, and that YTHDC1 was involved in regulating stemness maintenance in HNSCC. Conclusions. These findings suggest that YTHDC1 may serve as a biomarker for stem maintenance and malignant progression in HNSCC, providing new insights into the treatment of cancer.
Suppressive, Curative, and Prophylactic Effects of Maesa lanceolata Forssk. against Rodent Malaria Parasite Plasmodium berghei
Authors: Tekalign Eyob , Tadege Getnet , Fisseha Nebeyi , Nureye Dejen
Published: November 2022

The artemisinin partial resistance is believed to be spread to artemisinin‐based combination therapy partner drugs. As a result, new antiplasmodial compounds are required to treat resistant malaria infections. In the invention of antimalarial substances, claimed medical plants are precious resources. So, the current study was designed to assess the antiplasmodial effects of Maesa lanceolata in mice. In this study, preliminary phytoconstituent and in vivo acute oral toxicity tests were done. Early infection, established infection, and residual infection tests were employed to determine the antimalarial effects of the test drugs. Three doses (200, 400, and 600 mg/kg) of the extracts were provided orally to the test mice. Analysis of variance (one‐way) followed by post hoc Tukey’s test was used to analyze the difference between and within groups. Terpenoids, tannins, saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids were detected in the phytochemical constituent analysis. Both 80% methanolic crude extract and solvent fractions had no toxic result at the 2000 mg/kg dose. All test drug doses suppressed parasite levels in a significant manner at all tests. The activity of chloroform fraction (maximum percentage suppression, 81.28%) overwhelms the crude extract activity. The curative effects of 80% methanolic crude extract, with a maximum of 80.22% parasitemia suppression, were greater than its suppressive and prophylactic effects. The 400 mg/kg dose of chloroform fraction resulted in a maximum survival period (18 days) than other doses of tested materials. The results of this investigation provide support for the activity of M. lanceolata leaf extract against malaria.
Prediction of Orbit Decay for Large-Scale Spacecraft considering Rarefied Aerodynamic Perturbation Effects
Authors: Gao Xinglong , Li Zhihui , Chen Qin , Ding Di , Peng Aoping
Published: November 2022

The growing risk of falling debris from outer space as well as the atmospheric interaction effect makes the orbit decay prediction of large spacecraft in very low earth orbit (VLEO) increasingly significant. Focusing on the aerodynamic perturbation effects under multiscale and nonequilibrium states on the orbit decay of the large spacecraft in VLEO at the end of its lifetime, we developed a novel perturbation prediction model covering the entire altitude range before reentry to perform long-term and short-term predictions of the large-scale spacecraft. A unified local rapid engineering algorithm for aerodynamic force and moment coefficients covering all flow regimes is proposed. The orbit perturbation models, combining the components of aerodynamics solved by the engineering algorithm, are built for the large-scale spacecraft. For altitudes ranging from 350 km to 250 km, which we defined as the slow descending stage (SDS), the two-line orbital elements (TLEs) and simplified general perturbation 4 (SGP4) model were used for long-term prediction, whereas for altitudes from 250 km to 120 km, which we defined as the rapid falling stage (RFS), Kepler two-body motion dynamics with acceleration perturbations were applied. All the relevant orbital elements were analytically solved and numerically simulated by the Runge–Kutta integration method. Thus, the decay orbit for large spacecraft from 350 km to 120 km altitudes can be evaluated by the platform we built. All the predicted results were broadly consistent with the measurement data. The findings in this paper can be further applied into the orbit determination of noncooperative spacecraft.
New Onset of Diabetes Mellitus and Associated Factors among COVID-19 Patients in COVID-19 Care Centers, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 2022
Authors: Sane Asaminew Habtamu , Mekonnen Migbar Sibhat , Tsegaw Melsew Getnet , Zewde Wuletaw Chane , Mesfin Edmialem Getahun , Beyene Hailu Asmare , Ashine Taye Mezgebu , Tiruneh Kasie Gebeyehu , Mengistie Melkie Ambaw
Published: November 2022

Introduction. New onset of diabetes mellitus was noted as the commonest comorbidity in the COVID-19 pandemic, which contributed to a worse prognosis. Existing evidence showed that new-onset diabetes is associated with increased mortality compared to nondiabetic and known diabetic patients in the COVID-19 era. SARS-CoV-2 virus can worsen existing diabetes; at the same time, it can trigger new-onset diabetes that eventually worsens patient outcomes. Thus, this study is aimed at determining the prevalence and factors associated with new onset of diabetes mellitus among COVID-19 patients. Methods. Institution-based retrospective cross-sectional study design was conducted by reviewing 244 patient’s records in the Addis Ababa COVID-19 care center. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were used. During bivariate analysis, variables with

p
≤
0.25

were transferred into multivariate analysis. Adjusted odds ratios to determine the strength and presence of the association with a 95% confidence interval and

p

value ≤ 0.05 were considered, respectively. Results. The mean age of the study participants was 53.2 years with (

SD
=
13.35

). The study findings showed that 31.1% (CI: 25.4-37.4) of COVID-19 patients had new onset of diabetes mellitus; of those, 11.8% had type 1 and 88.2% had type 2 diabetes. Being male (

aOR
=
2.9

; 95% CI: 1.2, 7.1), family history of hypertension (

aOR
=
3.7

; 95% CI: 1.3, 10.5), obesity (

aOR
=
3.1

; 95% CI: 1.01, 8.9), having pulmonary embolism (

aOR
=
0.2

; 95% CI: 0.06, 0.04), and hyperkalemia (

aOR
=
9.3

; 95% CI: 1.8, 47.3) showed statistically significant association with new onset of diabetes mellitus. Conclusion. A significant proportion of COVID-19 patients had been diagnosed with new onset of diabetes mellitus, and new-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus is the most common diabetes mellitus type. Being male, obesity, having a pulmonary embolism, family history of hypertension, and hyperkalemia were independently associated with new onset of diabetes mellitus among COVID-19 patients. Therefore, focused interventions need to be strengthened towards the identified factors.
Association Between Copayment and Adherence to Medications for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Schikowski Erin M. , Swabe Gretchen , Chan Stephen Y. , Magnani Jared W.
Published: November 2022

Background

Pharmacologic treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) improves exercise capacity, functional class, and hemodynamic indexes. However, monthly prescription costs often exceed $4000. We examined associations between (1) medication copayment and (2) annual household income with adherence to pulmonary vasodilator therapy among individuals with PAH.

Methods and Results

We used administrative claims data from an insured population in the United States to identify individuals diagnosed with PAH between 2015 and 2020. All individuals had ≥1 medication claim for endothelin receptor antagonists, phosphodiesterase type‐5 inhibitors, prostanoids or prostacyclin receptor agonists, or the soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator riociguat. We defined copayments as low, medium, or high, as determined by their distributions for each medication class. Annual household income was categorized as <$40 000, $40 000 to $74 999, and ≥$75 000. The primary outcome was medication adherence, defined by proportion of days covered ≥80%. We studied 4025 adults (aged 65.9±13.3 years; 71.2% women). Compared with those with annual household income ≥$75 000, individuals in the <$40 000 and $40 000 to $74 999 categories had no significant differences in medication adherence. Compared with those with low copayments, individuals with high copayments had decreased adherence to prostanoids (odds ratio [OR], 0.36 [95% CI, 0.20–0.65];
P
<0.001) and combination therapy with endothelin receptor antagonist and phosphodiesterase type‐5 inhibitor (OR, 0.61 [95% CI, 0.38–0.97];
P
=0.03).

Conclusions

We identified associations between copayment and adherence to prostanoids and combination therapy among individuals with PAH. Copayment may be a structural barrier to medication adherence and merits inclusion in studies examining access to pharmacotherapy among individuals with PAH.
Emergency Interhospital Transfer of Patients With ST‐Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Call 9‐1‐1—The American Heart Association Mission: Lifeline Program
Authors: French William J. , Gunderson Mic , Travis David , Bieniarz Mark , Zegre‐Hemsey Jessica , Goyal Abhinav , Jacobs Alice K.
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT: The American Heart Association Mission: Lifeline program objectives are to improve the quality of care and outcomes for patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction. Every minute of delay in treatment adversely affects 1‐year mortality. Transfer of patients safely and timely to hospitals with primary percutaneous coronary intervention capability is needed to improve outcomes. But treatment times continue to show delays, especially during interhospital transfers. A simple 3‐step process of an interhospital “Call 9‐1‐1” protocol may expedite this process. This STAT TRANSFER process uses a systems approach that considers diverse ways in which patients access care, how EMS responds and determines destinations, how referring hospital transfers are performed, urban and rural differences, and how receiving hospitals prepare for an incoming patient with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction. This initiative suggests a strategy to reduce variability in interhospital transfer times using a STAT TRANSFER and a Call 9‐1‐1 process in a system of care that involves all stakeholders.
Social Determinants of Cardiovascular Health in US Adolescents: National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 1999 to 2014
Authors: Connolly Sean D. , Lloyd‐Jones Donald M. , Ning Hongyan , Marino Bradley S. , Pool Lindsay R. , Perak Amanda M.
Published: November 2022

Background

Cardiovascular health (CVH) is suboptimal in US adolescents. Social determinants of health (SDOH) may affect CVH. We examined SDOH by race and ethnicity and assessed for associations between SDOH and CVH among US adolescents.

Methods and Results

We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for 3590 participants aged 12 to 19 years from 1999 to 2014. SDOH variables were chosen and an SDOH score assigned (range, 0–7 points; higher=more favorable). CVH was classified according to American Heart Association criteria. We estimated population prevalence and used multivariable linear and polytomous logistic regression for associations between SDOH and CVH. SDOH varied by group, with the non‐Hispanic White group (n=1155) having a higher/better mean SDOH score compared with non‐Hispanic Black (n=1223) and Mexican American groups (n=1212). Associations between SDOH and CVH differed between racial and ethnic groups (interaction
P
<0.0001). For the non‐Hispanic White group, each additional favorable SDOH variable was associated with a CVH score higher/better by 0.3 points (β, 0.3,
P
<0.0001), 20% higher odds for moderate (versus low) CVH (odds ratio [OR], 1.2 [95% CI, 1.1–1.4]), and 80% higher odds for high/favorable (versus low) CVH (1.8 [1.5–2.1]). Associations between SDOH and CVH were more modest among the Mexican American group (β, 0.12,
P
=0.001; OR 1.1 [1.0–1.2] for moderate CVH; OR, 1.3 [1.1–1.6] for high CVH) and were not significant among the non‐Hispanic Black group (β, 0.07;
P
=0.464).

Conclusions

SDOH and CVH were more favorable for non‐Hispanic White adolescents compared with non‐Hispanic Black and Mexican American adolescents. SDOH were strongly associated with CVH among the non‐Hispanic White group. Racially and culturally sensitive public policy approaches may improve CVH in US adolescents.
Dame Wang’s Dumplings: Mediating the Obscene in Manchu Translations of Erotic Literature at the Turn of the Eighteenth Century
Authors: Vedal Nathan
Published: November 2022

This article examines the surprising attention to taboo works of Chinese erotic literature within the corpus of early Manchu literary translations, focusing on the Manchu interpretations of Jinpingmei (The plum in the golden vase), Xixiang ji (The story of the western wing), and Rouputuan (The carnal prayer mat). The Qing court is well known to have sponsored translations of core works of the Chinese classical and historical tradition, while simultaneously banning texts perceived as heterodox, lascivious, or politically sensitive. A lively engagement among Manchu commercial publishers with the literary tradition, including vernacular novels and plays, highlights the broader reading habits of the early Qing Manchu reader in practice. In mediating erotic material for this new audience, translators employed a variety of interpretive choices, ranging from expurgation to the opposite extreme of hyper-sexualization. This study situates these translation practices within the broader Manchu justifications of reading this material, shifting our attention from the conventional representation of Manchu literary repression.
The Afterlife of a Tang Monk: Buddhist Masculinity and Transformations of the Image of Xuanzang in East Asia
Authors: Song Geng
Published: November 2022

This study focuses on how Xuanzang (602-64), the well-known monk who procured Mahāyāna Buddhist scriptures from India and translated them into Chinese, posthumously became an icon of soft and queer masculinities in East Asian popular culture. Through a historical survey of the transformation of this image in various cultural forms, including literature, films, TV shows, anime and manga, computer games, and memes in China, Japan, and Korea, this article explores the interplay between religion and gender in East Asia, and argues that the image of Xuanzang is the product of the negotiations among a variety of cultural and economic forces and factors, such as the Buddhist notions of gender transgression and reincarnation, the Confucian discourse of scholar masculinity and androgyny, the cult of homosocial bond and brotherhood, as well as commercial concerns in TV and cinematic adaptations. Despite concerns over the character’s effeminacy and various attempts to re-masculinize him, the most popular and widely accepted image of Xuanzang remains that of a young scholar characterized by vulnerability and feminine beauty – a prototype of the fashionable “little fresh meat” aesthetic today.
Ilé L’àbọ̀ Simi Oko
Authors: Akande Abiodun Olasupo
Published: November 2022

This study employs the Yorùbá canonical maxim Ilé làbọ̀ simi oko and its antonymous equivalents as theoretical propensities and models for religion and material exchanges between the Ọ̀yó̩-Yorùbá, Sábę-Yorùbá, and Ifè̩-Ana Yorùbá communities. After centuries of independent existences, the Sábę and Ifè̩-Ana Yorùbá communities have continued in the practice of traditional Yorùbá religion and its attendant liturgical artefacts that they took with them from Ọ̀yó̩-Yorùbá, their original homeland. Using ethnography, history, and iconography, this research identifies practices such as Ifá, Sàngó, and egúngún,ìbejì, and respective paraphernalia such as ọpó̩n Ifá, agere Ifá, ìróké Ifá, osé Sàngó, ère egúngún, and ère ìbejì as artefacts shared between the three communities. The research avers that the deep-rooted Yorùbá cultural beliefs as encapsulated in ilé l’àbọ̀ simi oko and its antonymous maxims account for the people’s thoughts about their homeland and consequent adherence to the homeland religions as memorials of and communion with the homeland.
Administrative Liability for Vaccination with an Age-Inappropriate SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine: Latvian Experience
Authors: Šāberte Laura , Palkova Karina
Published: November 2022

The duty of ensuring epidemiological safety, including the duty to ensure vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 to people, is included in the framework of the national constitutional rights. The healthcare institutions providing vaccination and medical practitioners performing vaccination are one of the key assets of the national health care system, to whom the duty in the field of public health and protection of lives that is a part of human rights have been delegated. Violation of the epidemiological safety requirements in the Republic of Latvia, if it may cause a risk to human health, is subject to a fine. In this study, the authors have analysed the administrative offence cases, in which administrative liability has been imposed on medical institutions for performing vaccination with age-inappropriate vaccine, explain separation of administrative liability from criminal liability in such cases, reveal compensation mechanisms in the event of consequences, when inappropriate vaccination has caused harm to persons’ life or health. The results of the research show that no appropriate security measures have been introduced in the medical institutions to prevent or avoid administrative offences in particular cases, as the result medical institutions were subject to first-time application of administrative liability. Besides, there are lack sufficiently secure system for the examination and registration of patients in the medical institutions. The minor patients were unsecured and have been vaccinated with an inappropriate vaccine, because a specific (non appropriate) vaccine has been requested by the minors’ parents or the minors themselves.
The Mapping Turk: Human Judgment Driving Algorithms to Visualise Twitter During the 2022 French Presidential Election
Authors: Jacomy Mathieu
Published: November 2022

I had the occasion of visualising the French political Twitter just before the presidential election of 2022, in collaboration with other researchers and the journalists of the French newspaper Le Monde. In this paper, I reflect on this case in an auto-ethnographic style to open the black box of visual network analysis and expose the entangled dialogue between human expertise and computation. I contend that the visualisation’s validity does not root in mechanical objectivity because human judgement was involved at multiple levels, even though that work is not visible in the produced image itself. Like the proverbial “mechanical Turk”, a 18th century chess-playing automaton actually hiding a human player, this big data visualisation hides a reliance on man-made decisions. I first present the origin and social dynamic of this project, I document the methodology employed, I unpack what the map represents, and I explain how to read it (that section is incidentally relevant to the reader interested in French politics). I then return to the question of human judgment to expose in detail how the map was shaped by a negotiation between the journalists from Le Monde, my own research agenda, our methodological commitments, the algorithms employed, and the constraints imposed by the data themselves.
American Women in the Transcendental and Pragmatist Movements
Authors: Bensick Carol
Published: November 2022

Thirty years of search have demonstrated that women were as engaged in philosophical writing in the nineteenth century as in the more studied Early Modern and Twentieth Century Periods. It is now possible to ask the question: do their newfound texts fit into the conventional “patriarchal” historiography? To find the answer, we must survey the books which constitute that historiography and then experiment with challenging them with a handful of new texts.
C-Reactive Protein to Albumin Ratio as a Predictor of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy After Carotid Angiography
Authors: Kelesoglu Saban , Yilmaz Yucel , Elcik Deniz , Tuncay Aydin , Bireciklioglu Fehmi , Balci Mehtap , Kalay Nihat
Published: November 2022

This study evaluated the role of the C-reactive protein (CRP)/albumin ratio (CAR) in estimating the probability of occurring contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) after carotid artery angiography (CAAG). Patients (n = 410) who had CAAG for carotid artery stenosis (CAS) were included in this study. A spike in serum creatinine was used to define CIN within 72 h of the procedure (>.5 mg/dL or >25% above baseline). CAR was calculated by dividing the CRP by the albumin level. Patients with CIN had higher numbers of white blood cells ( P = .002), numbers of neutrophils ( P = .007), neutrophil–lymphocyte ratios ( P = .026), high-sensitivity CRP levels ( P < .001), and CAR levels ( P < .001) than those without CIN. They were also older ( P < .001) and more likely to have diabetes mellitus ( P = .006) and hypertension ( P = .016). According to receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC) analysis, the CAR value has a 75% sensitivity and a 68% specificity for identifying CIN at a cutoff of 1.8. Also, NLR and CRP predicted CIN with 71% sensitivity and 67% specificity, 71% sensitivity and 66% specificity at the best cutoff values of 1.96 and 7.91, respectively. According the present study, in patients with CAS, the development of CIN after CAAG is independently correlated with CAR at admission.
The Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index and Predicting Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Infections
Authors: Karaca Banu , Esin Fatma Kayaaltı , Özdemir Emre , Tiryaki Muhammet Mücahit , Özdemir Selin , Kırış Tuncay
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the utility of the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) in predicting the development of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device (CIED) infections. A retrospective analysis was performed using the medical records of 2185 patients who underwent CIED (including de novo, revision, or upgrade) implantation at our institution from January 2012 to December 2019. We recorded CIED infections and risk factors according to the patient, device, and procedural characteristics during the median 28.7 months (6.2–56.8) follow-up. CIED infections were identified in 52 patients. Diabetes, chronic renal disease, SII before implantation, new cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) implantation, CRT-battery replacement, revision or upgrade, and the number of previous procedures were independent predictors of CIED infections. The area under the curve (AUC) of SII to predict CIED infection was .733 (95% CI: .654-.811). A raised SII may be a useful predictor of CIED infection.
Exploring Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) Characteristic Peaks Screening Methods for the Rapid Determination of Chlorpyrifos Residues in Rice
Authors: Xiong Yao , Huang Junshi , Wu Ruimei , Geng Xiang , Zuo Haigen , Wang Xu , Xu Lulu , Ai Shirong
Published: November 2022

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), coupled with characteristic peak screening methods, was developed for analyzing chlorpyrifos (CM) pesticide residues in rice. Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) were prepared as Raman signal enhancement. Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4), primary secondary amine (PSA), and C18 were used to purify the rice extraction. A successive projections algorithm (SPA) was performed to identify the optimal characteristic peaks of CM in rice from full Raman spectroscopy. Support vector machine (SVM) and partial least squares (PLS) were implemented to investigate the quantitative analysis models. The results demonstrated that six Raman peaks such as 671, 834, 1016, 1114, 1436, and 1444 cm−1 were selected by the SPA and SVM models and had better performance using six peaks (only 0.92% of the full spectra variables) with R2 p = 0.97, RMSEP = 2.89 and RPD = 4.26, and the experiment time for a sample was accomplished within 10 min. Recovery for five unknown concentration samples was 97.45–103.96%, and T-test results also displayed no obvious differences between the measured value and the predicted value. The study stated that SERS, combined with characteristic peak screening methods, can be applied to rapidly monitor the chlorpyrifos residue in rice.
Position of Correct Option and Distractors Impacts Responses to Multiple-Choice Items: Evidence From a National Test
Authors: Lions Séverin , Dartnell Pablo , Toledo Gabriela , Godoy María Inés , Córdova Nora , Jiménez Daniela , Lemarié Julie
Published: November 2022

Even though the impact of the position of response options on answers to multiple-choice items has been investigated for decades, it remains debated. Research on this topic is inconclusive, perhaps because too few studies have obtained experimental data from large-sized samples in a real-world context and have manipulated the position of both correct response and distractors. Since multiple-choice tests’ outcomes can be strikingly consequential and option position effects constitute a potential source of measurement error, these effects should be clarified. In this study, two experiments in which the position of correct response and distractors was carefully manipulated were performed within a Chilean national high-stakes standardized test, responded by 195,715 examinees. Results show small but clear and systematic effects of options position on examinees’ responses in both experiments. They consistently indicate that a five-option item is slightly easier when the correct response is in A rather than E and when the most attractive distractor is after and far away from the correct response. They clarify and extend previous findings, showing that the appeal of all options is influenced by position. The existence and nature of a potential interference phenomenon between the options’ processing are discussed, and implications for test development are considered.
Reducing Work-Related Stress Through Soft-Skills Training Intervention in the Mining Industry
Authors: Molek-Winiarska Dorota , Kawka Tomasz
Published: November 2022

Objective

The aim of the study was to verify if soft-skills training is an effective intervention in reducing work-related stress among miners, that is, people who run the risk of losing health and/or life due to unpredictable natural forces or human error at work.

Background

The motivation for the intervention was based on Job Demands-Resources model where soft skills are job resources that help individuals to cope with or prevent high demands of the environment. The needed skills as well as work demands were first investigated and then a custom training was developed. The rationale for introducing soft-skills training into the work environment can be seen as compatible with the Human Capital Model (HCM) which is designed to stimulate positive organizational behaviour by providing an effective approach to ensure employees’ adequate coping with work-related stress.

Method

96 volunteer employees were assigned to intervention (n = 48) and comparison (n = 48) groups. 16-hour tailored training covered tasks and simulation games related to communication, teambuilding, self-management and conflict resolution skills. Job Content Questionnaire, Occupational Stress Indicator (modified to fit the mining environment) and General Health Questionnaire were used in the study. A MANOVA with effect-size measures was conducted.

Results

Results revealed a significant increase in decision latitude and social support for the trainees. A substantial decrease in stress was also observed, along with a significant decrease in general health problems. There were no such changes in the comparison group.

Conclusions

A soft-skills training, including communication, teamwork, self-motivation and conflict-resolution skills, helped participants to cope better with the stressful environment and improved their mental health. These effects lasted three months later.

Application

The intervention improved miners’ psychosocial health and the strategies of coping with stress, which increased safety and health in the company. Investigating the effectiveness of such interventions included in the general Human Capital Model, as it was done in the study, might be a step forward towards building an interdisciplinary approach for health and safety and human resources.
Examining Gender Differences in the Relationship Between School Bonding and Opioid Misuse Among Justice-Involved Adolescents
Authors: Vroom Enya B. , Johnson Micah E. , Akbari Zahra , Frederick Zachary , Bristol Skye C.
Published: November 2022

Justice-involved adolescents (JIAs) have an increased risk for opioid use disorder and overdose related to opioid misuse (OM). Consequences of untreated OM include recidivism and poor educational outcomes, which can be harsher for female JIA. Therefore, identifying relevant factors and settings that reduce the risk for OM is critical. Schools are a central institution in adolescent development. Drawing on social control theory, JIA with higher levels of school bonding was hypothesized to attenuate risk for OM. Cross-sectional data on 79,960 JIA from the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice were examined. Multivariate and stratified logistic regression analyses were employed. On average, for every one-unit increase in school bonding, JIA had 22%, female JIA had 23%, and male JIA had 22% lower odds of OM. Results suggest school bonding and the school context should be considered in treatment and how this setting may impact OM intervention outcomes among JIA.
A method for collecting high numbers of blood samples in standard vacuum tubes from non-heparinized pigs
Authors: Stærk Kristian , Langhorn Louise , Palarasah Yaseelan , Andersen Thomas E
Published: November 2022

Large animal models allow for collection of substantial amounts of biological material. However, the collection of larger volumes (>100 ml) of blood from pigs can be a challenge: (i) the peripheral veins are not suitable for collection of high numbers of standard blood tubes as the veins tend to collapse; and (ii) the alternative option of cannulating deeper veins mandates surgical exposure of the vessels and often the need for heparinization, which is undesirable for some blood analysis. During an immunization trial in 40 pigs, we assessed the femoral and saphenous arteries as practical vessels for collecting 250 ml of blood from each pig in standard collection tubes without heparinization. Blood collected from the saphenous artery by a standard butterfly needle proved particularly useful and 250 ml blood could be collected successfully in 24 of 25 pigs by this approach.
Characterization of pig skin microbiome and appraisal as an in vivo subcutaneous injection model
Authors: Wareham-Mathiassen Sofia , Pinto Glenting Vera , Bay Lene , Allesen-Holm Marie , Bengtsson Henrik , Bjarnsholt Thomas
Published: November 2022

Pig skin is commonly used in the medical industry as an injection model due to its compelling physiological affinity to human skin. However, the pig neck skin microflora remains largely uncharacterized, which may have undesirable implications for the translatability of results to humans. This study aimed to characterize pig neck skin microbiome with direct comparison with human skin microflora at emblematic injection sites to appraise its suitability as an injection model. Ten minipigs were sampled with tape strips and swabs and analysed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry and 16S/ITS high throughput sequencing and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Results were directly compared with previous investigations of human injection sites. Pig skin was dominated by phyla 94.8% Firmicutes, 3% Proteobacteria, and 2.2% Actinobacteria. Staphylococcus spp. prevailed (44.4%) at the genus level with S. capitis and S. chromogenes present in all samples. Pig skin revealed populations in the 104 colony-forming units (CFU)/cm2 range with 3% identified as Gram-negative and increased alpha diversity (compared with 102 CFU/cm2 and 10% in humans). While notable taxonomical differences on species levels were seen, pig skin encompassed 97.1% of genera found in human samples. The increased population and variation found support the pig neck as an imperfect but fidelitous subcutaneous injection model that can adequately challenge devices from a microbial standpoint.
Factors associated with gender and sex differences in anxiety prevalence and comorbidity: A systematic review
Authors: Farhane-Medina Naima Z. , Luque Bárbara , Tabernero Carmen , Castillo-Mayén Rosario
Published: November 2022

Background: The prevalence and comorbidity of anxiety disorders are significantly different between women and men, with research showing a greater impact on women. The aim of this review was to identify the psychosocial and biological factors that have been considered to explain this gender and sex difference in prevalence and determine whether these factors are related to any anxiety comorbidity differences between men and women. Methods: Following the PRISMA guidelines, we carried out a systematic review of studies published between 2008 and 2021 in PsycINFO and PubMed databases. Empirical and review studies evaluating psychosocial and biological factors that could influence the difference in prevalence and comorbidity between men and women were included. A qualitative narrative synthesis was performed to describe the results. Results: From 1012 studies, 44 studies were included. Retrieved articles were categorized depending on their object of study: psychosocial factors (n = 21), biological factors (n = 16), or comorbidity (n = 7). Results showed that differences in anxiety between women and men have been analyzed by psychosocial and biological factors but rarely together. Among the psychosocial factors analyzed, masculinity may be a protective factor for anxiety development, while femininity can be a risk factor. In the studies that took biological factors into account, the potential influence of brain structures, genetic factors, and fluctuations in sexual hormones are pointed out as causes of greater anxiety in women. Concerning comorbidity, the results noted that women tend to develop other internalizing disorders (e.g. depression), while men tend to develop externalizing disorders (e.g. substance abuse). Conclusions: For an accurate understanding of differences between women and men in anxiety, both biological and psychosocial factors should be considered. This review highlights the need to apply the biopsychosocial model of health and the gender perspective to address differences in anxiety between sexes.
Adverse childhood experiences, psychological well-being, and substance use in Pakistani university students
Authors: Hanif Rabia , Kliewer Wendy , Riaz Rabia
Published: November 2022

Adverse childhood experiences are associated with risky health behaviors and adverse health outcomes worldwide, including substance use; yet, relatively fewer studies have examined linkages between adverse childhood experiences and health behaviors and outcomes in low- and middle-income countries, including countries in sub-Saharan Africa and large portions of Asia. Furthermore, fewer studies of adverse childhood experiences have examined the pathways or processes connecting adverse childhood experiences to health behaviors and outcomes. This study addressed these gaps by investigating three competing models of associations between adverse childhood experiences, psychological well-being, and substance use in 595 Pakistani University students (40.5% female; Meanage = 21.96, Standard deviation = 2.37) using path analysis. Controlling for the effects of age, sex, and socioeconomic status, adverse childhood experiences were associated with both diminished psychological well-being and higher levels of substance use. However, psychological well-being and substance use were unrelated and neither accounted for indirect effects of adverse childhood experiences on adjustment. Suggestions for furthering research on adverse childhood experiences, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, are discussed.
Sinonasal Manifestations of Severe Cherubism: A Case with 11-year Follow-up
Authors: Jung Keun-Woo , Yun Ji Min , Lee Jeon Mi , Choi Ick Soo
Published: November 2022

Cherubism, a type of fibroosteodysplasia, is a rare hereditary disease that causes variable degrees of facial deformity in children. Hypertrophy of the mandible is the most common symptom, but in severe cases, the disease affects the eyes, teeth, and sinonasal cavity. There have been few reports regarding sinonasal complications and no standard treatment has been established. This paper reports long-term treatment of severe cherubism that invaded the sinonasal cavity treated with consecutive endoscopic sinonasal surgeries.
Scrutinising South African media companies’ strategies for Generation Z’s news consumption
Authors: Dlamini Lucky Brian , Daniels Glenda
Published: November 2022

This research scrutinises the strategies that three of South Africa’s largest mainstream media companies, namely, Media24, Independent News and Media, and Arena Holdings use to attract younger audiences, particularly Generation Z. The main question under focus is: Are South African media companies innovating adequately in their news media content and platforms to attract young audiences? The research examines the issue from both the discourses of the digital news editors of the media companies and a sample of young people interviewed about their news consumption. The rationale for this study is that Generation Z as active users of the various forms of the media have the potential to influence the way in which the media package and disseminate news. Therefore, it is important to study this rising segment of audiences as young people’s consumption behaviour and spending patterns shape the businesses of media institutions to adjust their news strategies quickly.
Feasibility and outcomes with subclavian vein access for crescent jugular dual lumen catheter for venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in COVID-19 related acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Memon Sehrish , Drosou Maria Eleni , Caroline Mara , Casanova Elena , Gnall Eric M
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Femoral-femoral Veno-Venous ExtraCorporeal Life Support (V-V ECLS) has been associated with higher infections rates, vascular site bleeding complications, and restricted patient mobility. Jugular or bicaval dual lumen V-V ECLS conceptually overcomes some of these adverse factors, but experience has shown that jugular vein cannulation still limits mobility and has increased bleeding complications. Technique and outcomes of subclavian vein single-cannulation with Crescent jugular dual-lumen V-V ECLS is described.

Method

five patients with COVID-19 related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) underwent right subclavian vein V-V ECLS placement with the Crescent 32 French jugular dual-lumen V-V ECLS catheter. A standardized percutaneous technique was developed that allowed efficient insertion without need for any specialized imaging (i.e. transesophageal echocardiogram) and outcomes assessed.

Results

Mean age of the five patients was 41.2 years, all obese with an average basal mass index of 45.2 kg/m2 and mean days to decannulation of 24.2 days. Outcomes discovered included; improved patient mobility allowing physical rehabilitation, no vascular access site related complications requiring surgery or endovascular intervention, and none had evidence of superior vena cava syndrome. One patient had subclavian/axillary vein thrombosis with resolution after 3 months of direct-acting oral anticoagulants, and one patient had blood cultures positive at day 37, nearing decannulation.

Conclusion

Subclavian vein access for crescent jugular dual lumen V-V ECLS catheter appears to be safe and feasible with added benefits of decreased bleeding and increased mobility over jugular or femoral-femoral access site for long term V-V ECLS support in COVID-19 related ARDS patients.
Sensory-motor training versus resistance training in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kuş Gamze , Tarakçı Ela , Razak Ozdincler Arzu , Erçin Ersin
Published: November 2022

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of sensory-motor training and resistance training in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Istanbul University, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation.

Subjects

Forty-eight participants with knee osteoarthritis.

Interventions

Following baseline assessment, participants were randomly allocated to sensory-motor training (n  =  24) and resistance training (n = 24). Both groups received training three times a week for 8 weeks.

Main measures

The primary outcome measure was the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC). The secondary outcome measures were pain level, muscle strength, proprioception, range of motion, quality of life, and patient satisfaction with treatment. Patients were assessed before and after four- and eight-week interventions.

Results

There was no significant difference between the groups’ total WOMAC scores after four- and eight-week interventions (respectively, p = 0.415, p = 0.828). There was a significant improvement in pain level during movement and in the energy subscale SF-36 for resistance training after the four-week intervention (respectively, p = 0.012, p = 0.007). After the eight-week intervention, a significant difference was noted in favor of resistance training in the secondary outcome measure quality of life (QoL). No significant difference was found in other secondary outcomes.

Conclusions

At the end of the treatment, it was observed that sensory-motor training had a similar effect in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis symptoms to resistance training. These findings may suggest that sensory-motor training is an effective new method to treat patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Understanding advance care planning in care homes throughout the COVID-19 pandemic: A critical realist review and synthesis
Authors: Spacey Adam , Porter Sam
Published: November 2022

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted advance care planning discussions in care homes, particularly discussions involving relatives and surrogate decision makers. There is a need to collate and examine current evidence to assess the extent of the problem.

Aim:

To examine the processes and experiences involved in advance care planning in care homes throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design:

A critical realist review and synthesis.

Data Sources:

MEDLINE, psycINFO, SCOPUS and CINAHL were searched between December 2019 and May 2022.

Results:

Eleven studies were included. Communication difficulties associated with remote technologies meant that care home staff’s concerns about engaging effectively with relatives further exacerbated the emotional toll of dealing with high death rates in circumstances where staff shortages stretched the capacity of those remaining to provide timely advance care planning discussions. The threat of the pandemic tended to encourage earlier and more frequent advance care planning discussions, though this tendency was partially countervailed by the difficulties that some residents and relatives had in engaging with remote communication modes. There was evidence that education and training in advance care planning increased staff’s confidence and readiness to engage in care planning during pandemic conditions.

Conclusion:

Results highlight part of the new context facing staff, relatives and residents in care homes, thus providing valuable insight for future intervention development required to maintain and improve the effectiveness of advance care planning in care homes during and beyond the pandemic.
Post cardiac arrest physical exercise mitigates cell death in the septal and thalamic nuclei and ameliorates contextual fear conditioning deficits in rats
Authors: Ferrier Fernando J , Saul Isabel , Khoury Nathalie , Ruiz Alexander J , Lao Efrain J Perez , Escobar Iris , Dave Kunjan R , Young Juan I , Perez-Pinzon Miguel A
Published: November 2022

A major concern for cardiac arrest (CA) survivors is the manifestation of long-term cognitive impairments. Physical exercise (PE) is a well-established approach to improve cognitive functions under certain pathological conditions. We previously showed that PE post-CA mitigates cognitive deficits, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. To define neuroprotective mechanisms, we analyzed whether PE post-CA protects neurons involved in memory. We first performed a contextual fear conditioning (CFC) test to confirm that PE post-CA preserves memory in rats. We then conducted a cell-count analysis and determined the number of live cells in the hippocampus, and septal and thalamic nuclei, all areas involved in cognitive functions. Lastly, we performed RNA-seq to determine PE post-CA effect on gene expression. Following CA, exercised rats had preserved CFC memory than sham PE animals. Despite this outcome, PE post-CA did not protect hippocampal cells from dying. However, PE ameliorated cell death in septal and thalamic nuclei compared to sham PE animals, suggesting that these nuclei are crucial in mitigating cognitive decline post-CA. Interestingly, PE affected regulation of genes related to neuroinflammation, plasticity, and cell death. These findings reveal potential mechanisms whereby PE post-CA preserves cognitive functions by protecting septal and thalamic cells via gene regulation.
Dualistic roles and mechanistic insights of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in brain injury and neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Xuan Wei , Xie Wanqing , Li Fengshi , Huang Dan , Zhu Ziyu , Lin Yuxuan , Lu Binwei , Yu Weifeng , Li Yan , Li Peiying
Published: November 2022

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is involved in various immune-mediated pathologies and regulates both innate and adaptive immune reactions, thus being related to several acute and chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, septic shock, and atherosclerosis. Its role in acute and chronic brain pathologies, such as stroke and neurodegenerative diseases, has attracted increasing attention in recent years. In response to stimuli like hypoxia, inflammation or infection, different cell types can rapidly release MIF, including immune cells, endothelial cells, and neuron cells. Notably, clinical data from past decades also suggested a possible link between serum MIF levels and the severity of stroke and the evolving of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize the major and recent findings focusing on the mechanisms of MIF modulating functions in brain injury and neurodegenerative diseases, which may provide important therapeutic targets meriting further investigation.