bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanistic studies of MALAT1 in respiratory diseases
Authors: Wu Wenzheng , Wang Shihao , Zhang Lu , Mao Beibei , Wang Bin , Wang Xiaoxu , Zhao Dongsheng , Zhao Pan , Mou Yunying , Yan Peizheng
Published: November 2022

Background: The incidence of respiratory diseases and the respiratory disease mortality rate have increased in recent years. Recent studies have shown that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) MALAT1 is involved in various respiratory diseases. In vascular endothelial and cancer cells, MALAT1 expression triggers various changes such as proinflammatory cytokine expression, cancer cell proliferation and metastasis, and increased endothelial cell permeability.

Methods: In this review, we performed a relative concentration index (RCI) analysis of the lncRNA database to assess differences in MALAT1 expression in different cell lines and at different locations in the same cell, and summarize the molecular mechanisms of MALAT1 in the pathophysiology of respiratory diseases and its potential therapeutic application in these conditions.

Results: MALAT1 plays an important regulatory role in lncRNA with a wide range of effects in respiratory diseases. The available evidence shows that MALAT1 plays an important role in the regulation of multiple respiratory diseases.

Conclusion: MALAT1 is an important regulatory biomarker for respiratory disease. Targeting the regulation MALAT1 could have important applications for the future treatment of respiratory diseases.
Feasibility of gabapentin as an intervention for neurorecovery after an acute spinal cord injury: Protocol
Authors: Wilson James R. , Doty Samuel , Petitt Jordan C. , El-Abtah Mohamed , Francis John J. , Sharpe Megan G. , Kelly Michael L. , Anderson Kim D.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

This protocol is describing the first ever prospective, mock-efficacy, dose exploration trial design testing the feasibility of administering gabapentin in the acute setting as an intervention for neurorecovery. Gabapentin is an FDA-approved medication for treating seizures and postherpetic neuralgia and is used broadly off-label for neuropathic pain management for many conditions, including spinal cord injury. Emerging data suggests that when given early after spinal cord injury onset and in low-medium doses, gabapentin may have properties that promote recovery of neurological function. The objective of this trial is to assess the feasibility of conducting an efficacy trial in which gabapentin is started early after injury, is restricted in its dose, and is not used for pain management.

Methods and analysis

Forty-two people aged 18 years or older with any level and any severity of spinal cord injury induced by a trauma will be enrolled, randomized, and have the first dose of study medication by 120 h post-injury onset. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: 600, 1,800 mg/day gabapentin, or placebo. Study medication will be given for a 90-day duration. Blinded assessments will be obtained at 7 days post-injury (baseline), 30 days post-injury (interim), after the 90-day treatment duration/approximately 3 months post-injury (end of treatment), and at 6 months post-injury (end of study). The key analysis parameters will evaluate feasibility of recruitment of target population, delivery of drug treatment protocol, maintenance of blinding, and retention of participants.

Discussion

Outputs from this trial will inform research and clinical practice on the effects of manipulating gabapentin for non-pain management purposes in the acute setting and will guide the development of a properly powered efficacy trial of gabapentin as an intervention for neurorecovery in spinal cord injury.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the MetroHealth Institutional Review Board (IRB21-00609) and registered at clinicaltrials.gov prior to enrolling any participants. Dissemination will include peer-reviewed publications, presentations at professional conferences and in the community, and through other healthcare and public venues.

Clinical trial registration

www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT05302999; protocol version 1.1 approved 05/23/2022.

Trial funding

National Institute on Disability, Independent Living and Rehabilitation Research.
Homotypic cell-in-cell structures as an adverse prognostic predictor of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Ruizhi , Zhu Yichao , Zhong Hao , Gao Xinyue , Sun Qiang , He Meifang
Published: November 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant liver tumors. A homotypic cell-in-cell structure (hoCIC) refers to one or more cells internalized into the same type as their neighbors, which predominantly occurs in multiple tumors. The objective of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of hoCICs in HCC and its relationship with other clinicopathological features. By immunostaining analysis of a panel of HCC tissues, we found that hoCICs were prevalent in tumor tissues (54/90) but not in para-tumor tissues (17/90). The presence of hoCICs in tumor tissues was closely associated with E-cadherin expression. The presence of CICs was identified as significantly associated with poor survival rates of patients with HCC, comparable to traditional clinicopathological parameters, such as histological grade [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.734, p = 0.320]. Multivariate Cox regression analysis further confirmed that CICs were an independent risk factor for poor survival (HR = 1.902, p = 0.047). In addition, hoCICs were the predominant contributor in a nomogram model constructed for survival prediction at 1, 3, and 5 years [the areas under the curve (AUCs) were 0.760, 0.733, and 0.794, respectively]. Stratification analysis indicated that hoCICs tend to selectively affect patients with high-grade disease (HR = 2.477, p = 0.009) and at the early TNM stage (HR = 2.351, p = 0.05). Thus, hoCICs predict poor survival of patients with HCC, particularly those with higher grades and at an early stage.
17-β Estradiol up-regulates energy metabolic pathways, cellular proliferation and tumor invasiveness in ER+ breast cancer spheroids
Authors: Pacheco-Velázquez Silvia Cecilia , Ortega-Mejía Ingrid Itzayanna , Vargas-Navarro Jorge Luis , Padilla-Flores Joaquín Alberto , Robledo-Cadena Diana Xochiquetzal , Tapia-Martínez Gabriela , Peñalosa-Castro Ignacio , Aguilar-Ponce José Luis , Granados-Rivas Juan Carlos , Moreno-Sánchez Rafael , Rodríguez-Enríquez Sara
Published: November 2022

Several biological processes related to cancer malignancy are regulated by 17-β estradiol (E2) in ER+-breast cancer. To establish the role of E2 on the atypical cancer energy metabolism, a systematic study analyzing transcription factors, proteins, and fluxes associated with energy metabolism was undertaken in multicellular tumor spheroids (MCTS) from human ER+ MCF-7 breast cancer cells. At E2 physiological concentrations (10 and 100 nM for 24 h), both ERα and ERβ receptors, and their protein target pS2, increased by 0.6-3.5 times vs. non-treated MCTS, revealing an activated E2/ER axis. E2 also increased by 30-470% the content of several transcription factors associated to mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) (p53, PGC1-α) and glycolytic pathways (HIF1-α, c-MYC). Several OxPhos and glycolytic proteins (36-257%) as well as pathway fluxes (48-156%) significantly increased being OxPhos the principal ATP cellular supplier (>75%). As result of energy metabolism stimulation by E2, cancer cell migration and invasion processes and related proteins (SNAIL, FN, MM-9) contents augmented by 24-189% vs. non-treated MCTS. Celecoxib at 10 nM blocked OxPhos (60%) as well as MCTS growth, cell migration and invasiveness (>40%); whereas the glycolytic inhibitor iodoacetate (0.5 µM) and doxorubicin (70 nM) were innocuous. Our results show for the first time using a more physiological tridimensional cancer model, resembling the initial stages of solid tumors, that anti-mitochondrial therapy may be useful to deter hormone-dependent breast carcinomas.
NK cells with decreased expression of multiple activating receptors is a dominant phenotype in pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Valenzuela-Vázquez Lucero , Nuñez-Enriquez Juan Carlos , Sánchez-Herrera Jacqueline , Medina-Sanson Aurora , Pérez-Saldivar María Luisa , Jiménez-Hernández Elva , Martiín-Trejo Jorge Alfonso , Del Campo-Martínez María de Los Ángeles , Flores-Lujano Janet , Amador-Sánchez Raquel , Mora-Ríos Félix Gustavo , Peñaloza-González José Gabriel , Duarte-Rodríguez David Aldebarán , Torres-Nava José Refugio , Espinosa-Elizondo Rosa Martha , Cortés-Herrera Beatriz , Flores-Villegas Luz Victoria , Merino-Pasaye Laura Elizabeth , Almeida-Hernández Carolina , Ramírez-Colorado Rosario , Solís-Labastida Karina Anastacia , Medrano-López Francisco , Pérez-Gómez Jessica Arleet , Velázquez-Aviña Martha Margarita , Martínez-Ríos Annel , Aguilar-De los Santos Antonio , Santillán-Juárez Jessica Denisse , Gurrola-Silva Alma , García-Velázquez Alejandra Jimena , Mata-Rocha Minerva , Hernández-Echáurregui Gabriela Alicia , Sepúlveda-Robles Omar Alejandro , Rosas-Vargas Haydeé , Mancilla-Herrera Ismael , Jimenez-Morales Silvia , Hidalgo-Miranda Alfredo , Martinez-Duncker Ivan , Waight Jeremy D. , Hance Kenneth W. , Madauss Kevin P. , Mejía-Aranguré Juan Manuel , Cruz-Munoz Mario Ernesto
Published: November 2022

NK cells have unique attributes to react towards cells undergoing malignant transformation or viral infection. This reactivity is regulated by activating or inhibitory germline encoded receptors. An impaired NK cell function may result from an aberrant expression of such receptors, a condition often seen in patients with hematological cancers. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common pediatric cancer worldwide and NK cells have emerged as crucial targets for developing immunotherapies. However, there are important gaps concerning the phenotype and behavior of NK cells during emergence of ALL. In this study we analyze the phenotype and function of NK cells from peripheral blood in pediatric patients with ALL at diagnosis. Our results showed that NK cells exhibited an altered phenotype highlighted by a significant reduction in the overall expression and percent representation of activating receptors compared to age-matched controls. No significant differences were found for the expression of inhibitory receptors. Moreover, NK cells with a concurrent reduced expression in various activating receptors, was the dominant phenotype among patients. An alteration in the relative frequencies of NK cells expressing NKG2A and CD57 within the mature NK cell pool was also observed. In addition, NK cells from patients displayed a significant reduction in the ability to sustain antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). Finally, an aberrant expression of activating receptors is associated with the phenomenon of leukemia during childhood.
CXCL12, a potential modulator of tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) of bladder cancer: From a comprehensive analysis of TCGA database
Authors: Wang Jinyan , Xie Yizhao , Qin Dongmei , Zhong Shanliang , Hu Xichun
Published: November 2022

Background

Tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) plays a significant role in the initiation and progression of bladder urothelial carcinoma (BLCA). However, there are only a few researches regarding the association between immune-related genes and tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TICs) in TIME of BLCA.

Methods

We calculated the proportion of immune/stromal component and TICs of 414 BLCA samples and 19 normal samples downloaded from TCGA database with the help of ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT algorithms. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained from the comparison between Stromal and Immune Score and further analyzed by GO and KEGG enrichment analysis, as well as PPI network and COX regression analysis. CXCL12 was overlapping among the above analyses. Single gene analysis of CXCL12 was carried out through difference analysis, paired analysis and GSEA. The association between CXCL12 and TICs was assessed by difference analysis and correlation analysis.

Results

Immune and stromal component in TIME of BLCA were associated with patients’ clinicopathological characteristics. 284 DEGs were primarily enriched in immune-associated activities, among which CXCL12 was the most significant gene sharing the leading nodes in PPI network and being closely related with patients’ survival. Single gene analysis and immunohistochemistry revealed that CXCL12 was down-regulated in BLCA samples and significantly related with the clinicopathological characteristics of patients. Further analysis suggested that CXCL12 was involved in the immune-associated activities probably through its close cross-talk with TICs.

Conclusions

CXCL12 down-regulation could be a potential biomarker to predict the unbalanced immune status of TIME of BLCA, which might provide an extra insight for the immunotherapy of BLCA.
Cabozantinib sensitizes microsatellite stable colorectal cancer to immune checkpoint blockade by immune modulation in human immune system mouse models
Authors: Lang Julie , Leal Alexis D. , Marín-Jiménez Juan A. , Hartman Sarah J. , Shulman Jeremy , Navarro Natalie M. , Lewis Matthew S. , Capasso Anna , Bagby Stacey M. , Yacob Bethlehem W. , MacBeth Morgan , Freed Brian M. , Eckhardt S. Gail , Jordan Kimberly , Blatchford Patrick J. , Pelanda Roberta , Lieu Christopher H. , Messersmith Wells A. , Pitts Todd M.
Published: November 2022

Immune checkpoint inhibitors have been found to be effective in metastatic MSI-high colorectal cancers (CRC), however, have no efficacy in microsatellite stable (MSS) cancers, which comprise the majority of mCRC cases. Cabozantinib is a small molecule multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor that is FDA approved in advanced renal cell, medullary thyroid, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Using Human Immune System (HIS) mice, we tested the ability of cabozantinib to prime MSS-CRC tumors to enhance the potency of immune checkpoint inhibitor nivolumab. In four independent experiments, we implanted distinct MSS-CRC patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) into the flanks of humanized BALB/c-Rag2nullIl2rγnullSirpαNOD (BRGS) mice that had been engrafted with human hematopoietic stem cells at birth. For each PDX, HIS-mice cohorts were treated with vehicle, nivolumab, cabozantinib, or the combination. In three out of the four models, the combination had a lower tumor growth rate compared to vehicle or nivolumab-treated groups. Furthermore, interrogation of the HIS in immune organs and tumors by flow cytometry revealed increased Granzyme B+, TNFα+ and IFNγ+ CD4+ T cells among the human tumor infiltrating leukocytes (TIL) that correlated with reduced tumor growth in the combination-treated HIS-mice. Notably, slower growth correlated with increased expression of the CD4+ T cell ligand, HLA-DR, on the tumor cells themselves. Finally, the cabozantinib/nivolumab combination was tested in comparison to cobimetinib/atezolizumab. Although both combinations showed tumor growth inhibition, cabozantinib/nivolumab had enhanced cytotoxic IFNγ and TNFα+ T cells. This pre-clinical in vivo data warrants testing the combination in clinical trials for patients with MSS-CRC.
Dietary zinc intake and mortality in patients with intestinal-type gastric cancer: A prospective cohort study in Korea
Authors: Kwak Jung Hyun , Park Chan Hyuk , Eun Chang Soo , Han Dong Soo , Kim Yong Sung , Song Kyu Sang , Choi Bo Youl , Kim Hyun Ja
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Current evidence regarding the association between zinc intake and gastric cancer (GC)-specific survival in patients with intestinal-type GC is lacking. Therefore, this cohort study investigated the association between zinc intake and GC mortality through follow-up on GC death among patients with intestinal-type GC and whether these effects differ according to the source of zinc intake.

Methods

A total of 185 patients with intestinal-type GC were enrolled from two hospitals between 2002 and 2006. Their survival or death was prospectively followed up until December 31, 2016, through a review of medical records and telephone surveys.

Results

A total of 178 patients were included and analyzed. The median follow-up period was 7.3 years. In the fully adjusted models, the highest tertile of total zinc intake showed a significantly lower GC mortality than the lowest tertile (hazard ratio, 0.22; 95% confidence interval: 0.08–0.64). In addition, the tertile of total zinc intake showed a dose-response association with GC mortality (p=0.015). Analysis of the source of zinc intake revealed that when zinc intake from staples (rice and noodles), animal, and plant food sources were combined, the results were similar to those of total zinc intake and GC mortality.

Conclusion

Zinc intake through various foods may be effective in reducing GC mortality by achieving balance with other nutrients. Our results suggest that zinc improves the survival of patients with intestinal-type GC in Korea.
GSK-J1-loaded, hyaluronic acid-decorated metal-organic frameworks for the treatment of ovarian cancer
Authors: Yang Bing , Liu Wenxu , Li Meiying , Mo Jingxin
Published: November 2022

Despite intensive research, ovarian cancer has the highest mortality rates among gynecological malignancies, partly because of its rapid acquisition of chemoresistance to platinum therapy. Hence, strategies are needed to effectively treat carboplatin-resistant ovarian cancer. In this study, we designed and prepared hyaluronic acid-decorated metal-organic frameworks for the targeted delivery of GSK-J1, a JMJD3 demethylase inhibitor (HA@MOF@GSK-J1) for the synergistic treatment of carboplatin-resistant ovarian cancer. HA@MOF@GSK-J1 showed outstanding effectiveness in the inhibition of ovarian cancer in vitro. Furthermore, HA@MOF@GSK-J1 demonstrated higher induction of apoptosis, reduced cell motility, and diminished cell spheroids by attenuating HER2 activity through the effectual activation of H3K27 methylation in its promoter area. Finally, our in vivo results confirmed that HA@MOF@GSK-J1 had better treatment efficacy for carboplatin-resistant ovarian tumor xenografts. Our results highlight the potential of HA@MOF@GSK-J1 as an effective strategy to improve the treatment of carboplatin-resistant ovarian cancer.
Black phosphorus quantum dots: Nonlinear optical modulation material with ultraviolet saturable absorption
Authors: Wei Hao , Fan Wenxuan , Dong Yulan , Wang Yiduo , Zhou Li , Wang Yingwei , He Jun
Published: November 2022

Black phosphorus has attracted great interest for optical modulation and optoelectronic devices because of its ultrathin layer structure, tunable band gap, and high in-plane anisotropy. In particular, in the near-infrared and mid-infrared bands, proof-of-concept applications, including saturable absorber resonators, photodetectors, and optical modulators based on 2D black phosphorus nanosheets, have been reported one after another. However, relatively few studies about black phosphorus have been reported in the ultraviolet band. Moreover, the poor stability of black phosphorus has also limited its development in practical applications. Here, we successfully prepared ultra-small black phosphorus quantum dots (BPQDs) with an average thickness of 2.0 ± 0.4 nm and a diameter of 2.2 ± 0.6 nm. Furthermore, we also fabricated BPQD-Ormosil gel glasses. Through an open-aperture Z-scan experiment, BPQD-Ormosil gel glasses demonstrated excellent nonlinear optical modulation in the ultraviolet band, which proposes a new idea for ultraviolet optical modulation elements such as saturable absorption devices.
Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici effectors in wheat immune responses
Authors: Wu Nan , Ozketen Ahmet Caglar , Cheng Yu , Jiang Wanqing , Zhou Xuan , Zhao Xinran , Guan Yaorong , Xiang Zhaoxia , Akkaya Mahinur S.
Published: November 2022

The obligate biotrophic fungus Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, which causes yellow (stripe) rust disease, is among the leading biological agents resulting in tremendous yield losses on global wheat productions per annum. The combatting strategies include, but are not limited to, fungicide applications and the development of resistant cultivars. However, evolutionary pressure drives rapid changes, especially in its “effectorome” repertoire, thus allowing pathogens to evade and breach resistance. The extracellular and intracellular effectors, predominantly secreted proteins, are tactical arsenals aiming for many defense processes of plants. Hence, the identity of the effectors and the molecular mechanisms of the interactions between the effectors and the plant immune system have long been targeted in research. The obligate biotrophic nature of P. striiformis f. sp. tritici and the challenging nature of its host, the wheat, impede research on this topic. Next-generation sequencing and novel prediction algorithms in bioinformatics, which are accompanied by in vitro and in vivo validation approaches, offer a speedy pace for the discovery of new effectors and investigations of their biological functions. Here, we briefly review recent findings exploring the roles of P. striiformis f. sp. tritici effectors together with their cellular/subcellular localizations, host responses, and interactors. The current status and the challenges will be discussed. We hope that the overall work will provide a broader view of where we stand and a reference point to compare and evaluate new findings.
Feasibility of a brief mindfulness-based program for burnout in pain healthcare professionals
Authors: Server Anna , Suso-Ribera Carlos , Pérez-Carrasco Marcos , Medel Javier , Mesas Ángela , Ayora Alfonso , Gracia Rosa Maria
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Stress inherent to health care, which is characterized by work overload and shortage of specialized staff, is associated with decreased quality of life and suboptimal patient care. Mindfulness-based programs have proved to be effective in reducing stress in healthcare providers. This study aims to assess the feasibility of an 8-week mindfulness program to reduce the burnout levels of the staff of a pain clinic in a tertiary public hospital.

Materials and methods

A longitudinal study with a within subject pre/post-intervention design, consisting of daily face-to-face 10-min sessions and the creation of a virtual group using a social media platform. Variables measured: burnout, mindfulness, empathy, self-compassion, and demographic characteristics.

Results

Program feasibility (i.e., reach, adherence, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness) was evaluated in 10 participants (6 physicians, 2 nurse practitioners, 1 nursing assistant, and 1 administrative). The results revealed a high reach (i.e., participation rate of 90%), excellent adherence to the program (daily practice 95% of times), and very good acceptability of the group format and satisfaction with most treatment components. Regarding potential effectiveness, we report the results of the Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and its associated effect size (r). We observed improvements in mindfulness and all its subscales (−2.077 ≤ Z ≤ −2.703, 0.69 ≤ r ≤ 0.90, all p < 0.05) except for non-reactivity and all subcomponents of self-compassion (−2.501 ≤ Z ≤ −2.611, 0.83 ≤ r ≤ 0.87, all p < 0.05) but not on its global self-compassion score. Empathy and burnout did not change. In an exploratory manner, however, we found significant reductions in the burnout component of emotional exhaustion, but only in physicians (Z = −2.201, p = 0.028, r = 0.73).

Discussion

We believe that the 8-week mindfulness-based program described in the present investigation might be a feasible and potentially effective method that can be easily implemented to reduce burnout and promote mindfulness in specialized pain clinics.
Work values across generations: Development of the New Work Values Scale (NWVS) and examination of generational differences
Authors: Stiglbauer Barbara , Penz Marlene , Batinic Bernad
Published: November 2022

The “battle for talent” requires organizations to more strongly focus on employer branding strategies, and, thus, on work values or work orientations of potential candidates. We therefore developed and validated the New Work Values Scale (Study 1; n = 316), a brief, 28-item, rating scale that covers a broad set of both, instrumental and symbolic, values, relevant for the appraisal of an employers’ attractiveness. We also applied the scale to a sample representative to the German online population, to explore the controversially discussed generational differences in work values (Study 2; n = 956). Results revealed that work values associated with sustainable organizational development or basic needs were highly similar across generations. Younger and older generations only differed significantly with regard to how much they valued clarity, money, career, development, stimulation, and relating, all of which are highly plausible from a lifecycle perspective.
Mask wearing in Japanese and French nursery schools: The perceived impact of masks on communication
Authors: Crimon Cécile , Barbir Monica , Hagihara Hiromichi , de Araujo Emma , Nozawa Sachiko , Shinya Yuta , Abboub Nawal , Tsuji Sho
Published: November 2022

Due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, covering the mouth region with a face mask became pervasive in many regions of the world, potentially impacting how people communicate with and around children. To explore the characteristics of this masked communication, we asked nursery school educators, who have been at the forefront of daily masked interaction with children, about their perception of daily communicative interactions while wearing a mask in an online survey. We collected data from French and Japanese nursery school educators to gain an understanding of commonalities and differences in communicative behavior with face masks given documented cultural differences in pre-pandemic mask wearing habits, face scanning patterns, and communicative behavior. Participants (177 French and 138 Japanese educators) reported a perceived change in their own communicative behavior while wearing a mask, with decreases in language quantity and increases in language quality and non-verbal cues. Comparable changes in their team members’ and children’s communicative behaviors were also reported. Moreover, our results suggest that these changes in educators’ communicative behaviors are linked to their attitudes toward mask wearing and their potential difficulty in communicating following its use. These findings shed light on the impact of pandemic-induced mask wearing on children’s daily communicative environment.
The dark side of sexism in Argentina: Psychometric properties of the Short Dark Triad Personality measure and its relation with ambivalent sexism
Authors: Bria Paula , Etchezahar Edgardo , Ungaretti Joaquín , Gómez Yepes Talía
Published: November 2022

One of the main evaluation instruments of the dark side of personality has been the Short Dark Triad of Personality (SD3), that includes Machiavellianism, Narcissism and Psychopathy traits. Although other adaptations of this scale have been made in several countries, its psychometric properties have never been tested in Argentina. Different studies addressed that dark triad scores are related to different expressions of sexist prejudice. One of the issues that have been traditionally considered to understand intimate, yet unequal relationships between men and women, is prejudice toward women. Ambivalent sexism combines two types of sexist attitudes: hostile, and benevolent sexism. While hostile sexism involves attitudes of outright intolerance towards women, benevolent sexism is defined as a set of attitudes that comprises the perception of women in a positive emotional tone. The aim of the study was to analyze the Dark Triad of Personality scale in the Argentinian context and its relationships whit ambivalent sexism. A total of 1,198 individuals residing in different regions of Argentina participated, from different genders (woman = 59.5%), from 18 to 75 years old (M = 45.17 SD = 15.08). Main results indicated adequate psychometric properties for the Short Dark Triad of Personality scale in the Argentinian context. In addition, the three traits of the dark triad were significantly related to hostile and benevolent sexism, which indicate that one of the variables to keep addressing in order to comprise and eventually reduce prejudice towards women would be the dark triad of personality. Main results are discussed, in order to strengthen the understanding of the relationships between the dark triad and ambivalent sexism.
Subjective socioeconomic status is associated with risk aversion in a community-based cohort of older adults without dementia
Authors: Weissberger Gali H. , Han S. Duke , Yu Lei , Barnes Lisa L. , Lamar Melissa , Bennett David A. , Boyle Patricia A.
Published: November 2022

Attitudes towards risk impact financial decisions that are critical in older adulthood. Socioeconomic status (SES) influences an individual’s level of risk aversion; however, the association of subjective SES (i.e., social standing relative to others) with risk aversion has not been explored. We examined whether subjective SES is associated with risk aversion independent of objective SES (i.e., income, education). Participants were 933 older adults without dementia from the Rush Memory and Aging Project (MAP) or Minority Aging Research Study (MARS), two longitudinal epidemiologic studies of aging. Participants completed assessments of risk aversion, subjective SES, and cognition. We examined associations of subjective SES with risk aversion using mixed models adjusting for participant characteristics, objective markers of SES and global cognition. In bivariate analyses, lower global cognitive functioning, lower income, female sex, Black race, and lower subjective SES were associated with greater risk aversion. Results of the nonlinear mixed effects model revealed that higher subjective SES was associated with less risk aversion (Estimate = −0.238, SE = 0.083, p = 0.004), after controlling for covariates. Age, sex, race, and global cognition were also associated with risk aversion in the mixed effects model (ps ≤0.03), although income and education were not (ps ≥ 0.27) The relationship between subjective SES and risk aversion did not differ by sex or race (ps ≥ 0.31). Findings suggest that subjective SES contributes to risk aversion regardless of sex or race. Findings support the importance of considering subjective indicators of SES as they may impact an older adult’s economic preferences.
Pre-existing mental health disorders and fear of COVID-19 pandemic: Data from a phone survey in community-dwelling older adults recruited in the NutBrain study
Authors: Perdixi Elena , Bernini Sara , Conti Silvia , Jesuthasan Nithiya , Cotta Ramusino Matteo , Costa Alfredo , Prinelli Federica
Published: November 2022

Background

COVID-19 has caused a parallel epidemic of fear, anxiety, depression, stress, and frustration, particularly among the most fragile and vulnerable individuals, such as older people and those with previous mental health disorders. The present study aims to investigate the association between pre-existing mental health disorders, particularly depressive symptoms and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), and the fear of COVID-19 and to explore which cognitive domains were involved in coping with fear in older people.

Materials and methods

In April 2020, we conducted a phone-interview questionnaire on community-dwelling older adults living in Lombardy Region (Italy) who participated in the NutBrain study. At baseline, socio-demographic characteristics along with lifestyles, and medical history were recorded. Participants underwent a neuropsychological battery exploring the global cognitive function and specific cognitive domains, to detect cases of MCI. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CES-D) was used for screening depressive symptoms. During the phone survey, respondents were assessed using a structured questionnaire querying about fear of the COVID-19 pandemic. We performed multivariate logistic regression models to study the association between MCI and depressive symptomatology and fear. We also explored which cognitive domains were associated with fear. Odds Ratios (OR) with Confidence Intervals (95%CI) were estimated adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Out of the 351 respondents (mean age 73.5 ± 6.1 years, 59.8% women, 49.1% high education), at baseline, 22.9% had MCI and 18.8% had depressive symptoms. In the multivariate analyses gender, age, and body mass index were significantly associated with the fear score. Considering different domains of fear, MCI was associated with fear of being infected themselves (OR 2.55, 95%CI 1.39–4.70) while depressive symptoms were associated with fear of contagion for family members (OR 2.38, 95%CI 1.25–4.52). Impaired executive cognitive function was positively associated with the highest tertile of the fear score (OR 3.28, 95%CI 1.37–7.74) and with fear of contagion for themselves (OR 3.39, 95%CI 1.61-7.17).

Conclusion

Older adults experienced different fear reactions, particularly when suffering from neurocognitive disorders and depressive symptoms; executive dysfunction was associated with increased fear. These results highlighted the need to pay attention to the psychological effects of the outbreak of COVID-19 to target intervention, especially among vulnerable subgroups of individuals.

Clinical trial registration

[ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [NCT04461951].
The development and progress of health literacy in China
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Lv Xiaofeng , Liang Jun , Dong Hengjin , Chen Changgui
Published: November 2022

Limited health literacy is a serious public health problem. It is strongly associated with increased hospital admissions and readmission, poorer self-management, and health outcomes. It can lead to poor management of chronic disease, lower health care quality, increased mortality, and higher healthcare expenditures. Understanding China's current situation and the progress of health literacy levels are critical to achieving practical solutions for improving population health. This paper intended to provide a concise overview of the key milestones and specific practices in health literacy in China. We summarized the characteristics and changing profile of health literacy from 2008 to 2020 in China. We developed an intervention framework based on social ecosystem theory for improving health literacy in China. Meanwhile, some multi-level actionable recommendations were proposed. The study revealed that China has made progress in improving health literacy in the last decades. Health literacy levels increased from 6.48% of the population in 2008 to 23.15% in 2020. Geographic disparities were substantial. The East performed better health literacy than the Central and West, and cities had higher adequate health literacy than rural areas. Social development index, age, and education level were highly associated with health literacy. A global joint effort to improve health literacy will be required. And we advocate a whole-of-society approach that involves the participation of the entire ecosystem around the targeted population.
Impact of fear of COVID-19 on students' performance, moderating role of mindfulness: HSK students' perception-based view
Authors: Meiyi Zhang , Liu Yang
Published: November 2022

COVID-19 created difficulties and problems in almost everyone's daily life routine. Educational institutions too had to reschedule their academic activities. This shift caused attitudinal and behavioral changes in students' learning patterns. Using stress theory, the present study tries to determine the association of fear of COVID-19 with students' performance. In addition, the present study also attempts to check the impact of fear of COVID-19 on anxiety. Further, this study tries to find the association of anxiety with students' performance. This study also attempts to determine the mediating role of anxiety and the moderating role of mindfulness. For empirical investigation, the current study collected data from 320 HSK students from different colleges and universities in China. The present study applied partial least square structural equation modeling for the empirical investigation of hypotheses by using Smart-PLS software. The present study's findings confirmed that fear of COVID-19 negatively affects students' performance, and it positively correlates with anxiety. The study's outcomes revealed that anxiety negatively affects students' performance. The outcomes also confirmed that anxiety negatively mediates the relationship between fear of COVID-19 and students' performance. The present study's findings acknowledged that mindfulness does not moderate the relationship between fear of COVID-19 and student performance and has a positive moderation between anxiety and student performance. The present study offers important practical, theoretical, and managerial implications.
Magnitude of NNM and associated factors among Newborns delivered at the North Shewa zone Public Health Hospital, Central Ethiopia: A multi-level analysis
Authors: Goyomsa Girma Garedew , Deriba Birhanu Senbeta , Wadejo Meseret Moroda , Debela Sisay Abebe , Amhare Abebe Feyissa
Published: November 2022

Background

Neonatal near miss refers to a condition where a newborn is close to death within the first 28 days of life but ultimately survives either by chance or because of the quality of care they received. It is considered a major public health problem that contributes to the global burden of disease in less developing countries. For every death due to NMM, many others develop a severe complication. Despite this grim reality, there seems to be a gap in terms of the magnitude of and predictors of NNM in Ethiopia, where the previous study focused on neonatal death investigation. This study aimed to determine the magnitude of NNM and its determinants among the neonates delivered in the North Shewa zone, Central Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted using a systematic random sampling technique among 747 newly delivered babies in the North Shewa zone public hospital from January 30 to June 30, 2021. Neonatal near misses were identified with the help of the World Health Organization labeling criteria. Collected data were coded, entered, and cleaned by using Epi data 4.4.6 and analyzed using SPSS software (version 26) for analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to compute summary statistics and proportions. Variables at a cutoff value of 0.25 on bivariate and 0.05 on multivariate logistic regression were used to identify predictors.

Result

The prevalence of NNM was 35.3% (95% CI = 31.9–38.6) per 1,000 live births. Participant occupation [AOR: 0.55, CI: 0.33–0.90], marital status [AOR: 2.19; CI: 1.06–4.51], instrumental delivery [AOR: 1.98; CI: 1.10–3.55], intrapartum hemorrhage [AOR: 2.27; CI: 1.03–5.01], abortion history [AOR: 1.59; CI: 1.03–2.44], mal-presentation [AOR: 1.77; CI: 1.14–2.77], premature rupture of membrane [AOR: 2.36; CI: 1.59–3.51], and pregnancy-related infection [AOR: 1.99; CI: 1.14–3.46] were found to have statistically significant association.

Conclusion and recommendation

One-third of neonates face serious neonatal health conditions. Given this, addressing modifiable obstetric risk factors through providing skilled and quality care to mothers during pregnancy and during and after childbirth was important for improving neonatal health. Additionally, strengthening antenatal care services to minimize the infection occurring during pregnancy through the provision of appropriate services and counseling about the consequences of abortion was essential in reversing the problem.
The influence of three-dimensional structure on naïve T cell homeostasis and aging
Authors: Lambert Simon , Cao Wenqiang , Zhang Huimin , Colville Alex , Liu Jie-Yu , Weyand Cornelia M. , Goronzy Jorg J. , Gustafson Claire E.
Published: November 2022

A breakdown in cellular homeostasis is thought to drive naïve T cell aging, however the link between naïve T cell homeostasis and aging in humans is poorly understood. To better address this, we developed a lymphoid organoid system that maintains resting naïve T cells for more than 2 weeks, in conjunction with high CD45RA expression. Deep phenotypic characterization of naïve T cells across age identified reduced CD45RA density as a hallmark of aging. A conversion from CD45RAhighnaive cells to a CD45RAlowphenotype was reproduced within our organoid system by structural breakdown, but not by stromal cell aging or reduced lymphocyte density, and mediated by alternative CD45 splicing. Together, these data suggest that external influences within the lymph node microenvironment may cause phenotypic conversion of naïve T cells in older adults.
Multistimuli-responsive microrobots: A comprehensive review
Authors: Shah Zameer Hussain , Wu Bingzhi , Das Sambeeta
Published: November 2022

Untethered robots of the size of a few microns have attracted increasing attention for the potential to transform many aspects of manufacturing, medicine, health care, and bioengineering. Previously impenetrable environments have become available for high-resolution in situ and in vivo manipulations as the size of the untethered robots goes down to the microscale. Nevertheless, the independent navigation of several robots at the microscale is challenging as they cannot have onboard transducers, batteries, and control like other multi-agent systems, due to the size limitations. Therefore, various unconventional propulsion mechanisms have been explored to power motion at the nanoscale. Moreover, a variety of combinations of actuation methods has also been extensively studied to tackle different issues. In this survey, we present a thorough review of the recent developments of various dedicated ways to actuate and control multistimuli-enabled microrobots. We have also discussed existing challenges and evolving concepts associated with each technique.
Design and environmental testing of imaging payload for a 6 U CubeSat at low Earth orbit: KITSUNE mission
Authors: Azami Muhammad Hasif Bin , Orger Necmi Cihan , Schulz Victor Hugo , Oshiro Takashi , Alarcon Jose Rodrigo Cordova , Maskey Abhas , Nakayama Kazuhiro , Fukuda Yoshiya , Kojima Kaname , Yamauchi Takashi , Masui Hirokazu , Cho Mengu ,   KITSUNE Team Members
Published: November 2022

Earth observation (EO) missions remain a challenging task for small satellite platforms due to their demanding requirements and space environment effects. In this study, the camera payload development and mission requirements are presented together with the ground-based testing results for a 6U CubeSat called KITSUNE, operating at low Earth orbit. The major challenge of the payload development is maintaining the focus of the optical system despite the thermal vacuum environment in orbit since the low thermal capacity and rapid temperature variation of CubeSats hinder the camera focus. First, the payload is developed with an objective of a 5-m-class imaging mission, which has a 31.4 MP CMOS sensor and a lens with a 300-mm focal length. Second, polyimide heaters and multilayer insulators are utilized in order to maintain focus during imaging operations. Third, a collimator lens is used to aid in image capture during thermal vacuum tests. These images are analyzed thoroughly using various focus measure operators. The Diagonal Laplacian was found to be the most suitable operator due to the consistency in test results. The results also showed that the heat generated by the camera sensor significantly affects the lens temperature and, ultimately, the target temperature of the lens was defined at −1.8°C. Finally, the test results are discussed, including thermal vacuum, vibration, total ionization dose, and the effect of exposure to direct sunlight on the CMOS sensor.
Use of mixed reality for the training of operators of mobile elevating work platforms with the aim of increasing the level of health and safety at work and reducing training costs
Authors: Gasparello Paolo Simone , Facenza Gabriele , Vanni Federico , Nicoletti Alessandro , Piazza Fabio , Monica Luigi , Anastasi Sara , Cristaudo Alfonso , Bergamasco Massimo
Published: November 2022

The article presents an immersive multisensory simulator developed in a project co-financed by INAIL (the Italian Workers' Compensation Authority) as part of a collaborative research program for the application of innovative technologies and systems to the management of health and safety at work. Specifically, the program provides for the development of simulators for the structuring of skills qualification paths for operators in charge of running and maintaining the most dangerous work equipment. The simulator we present reproduces all the aspects that contribute to a complete driving experience of the simulated machine in an artificial working environment that replicates typical and atypical operations and hazards involved in the use of self-propelled mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) with an extendable articulated boom. The simulator has been designed following the analysis of the most critical working routines with aerial work platforms and using physical components of a real MEWP combined with immersive Virtual Reality technologies. The use of Extended Reality technologies to simulate challenging work scenarios makes it possible to train operators by confronting them with very risky situations without any real danger, both in terms of damage to machinery, and above all in terms of user’s safety. The presented simulation system has been designed as a high-TRL prototype to demonstrate the feasibility of developing training programs in the context of occupational safety and health, based on a mixed-reality simulator targeting MEWP operators and verifiers.
Using phosphate amendments to reduce bioaccessible Pb in contaminated soils: A meta-analysis
Authors: Mayer Manfred M. , Basta Nicholas T. , Scheckel Kirk G.
Published: November 2022

Measuring the reduction of in vitro bioaccessible (IVBA) Pb from the addition of phosphate amendments has been researched for more than 20 years. A range of effects have been observed from increases in IVBA Pb to almost 100% reduction. This study determined the mean change in IVBA Pb as a fraction of total Pb (AC) and relative to the IVBA Pb of the control soil (RC) with a random effects meta-analysis. Forty-four studies that investigated the ability of inorganic phosphate amendments to reduce IVBA Pb were identified through 5 databases. These studies were split into 3 groups: primary, secondary, and EPA Method 1340 based on selection criteria, with the primary group being utilized for subgroup analysis and meta-regression. The mean AC was approximately -12% and mean RC was approximately -25% for the primary and secondary groups. For the EPA Method 1340 group, the mean AC was -5% and mean RC was -8%. The results of subgroup analysis identified the phosphorous amendment applied and contamination source as having a significant effect on the AC and RC. Soluble amendments reduce bioaccessible Pb more than insoluble amendments and phosphoric acid is more effective than other phosphate amendments. Urban Pb contamination associated with legacy Pb-paint and tetraethyl Pb from gasoline showed lower reductions than other sources such as shooting ranges and smelting operations. Meta-regression identified high IVBA Pb in the control, low incubated soil pH, and high total Pb with the greater reductions in AC and RC. In order to facilitate comparisons across future remediation research, a set of minimum reported data should be included in published studies and researchers should use standardized in vitro bioaccessibility methods developed for P-treated soils. Additionally, a shared data repository should be created for soil remediation research to enhance available soil property information and better identify unique materials.