bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
STAT3/miR-130b-3p/MBNL1 feedback loop regulated by mTORC1 signaling promotes angiogenesis and tumor growth
Authors: Li Hongwu , Liu Ping , Li Dapeng , Wang Zixi , Ding Zhao , Zhou Meng , Chen Xu , Miao Manli , Ding Junli , Lin Wei , Liu Yehai , Zha Xiaojun 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background
Aberrantly activated mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) plays a vital role in tumor angiogenesis, but its precise mechanisms are still unclear.

Methods
Micro-RNA-130b-3p (miR-130b-3p) expression in mTORC1-activated and control cells was examined by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). MiR-130b-3p levels and their correlation with mTORC1 activity were evaluated by analyzing publicly available databases and in-house head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tissues. The role of miR-130b-3p in mTORC1-mediated angiogenesis and tumor growth was examined using tube formation assay, chicken chorioallantoic membrane assay, cell line − derived xenograft models, and an HNSCC patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model. The regulatory mechanisms among signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), miR-130b-3p, and muscleblind-like protein 1 (MBNL1) were investigated via bioinformatics analyses, qRT-PCR, western blot, RNA immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, luciferase reporter assay, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay.

Results
Elevated miR-130b-3p enhanced the angiogenic and tumorigenic abilities of mTORC1-activated cells both in vitro and in vivo. STAT3, a downstream effector of mTORC1, transactivated miR-130b-3p by direct binding promoter of the miR-130b gene. MBNL1 was identified as a direct target of miR-130b-3p. MBNL1 depletion rescued the compromised angiogenesis and tumor growth caused by miR-130b-3p inhibition. MiR-130b-3p levels were significantly upregulated and positively correlated with mTORC1 signaling in multiple cancers. MiR-130b-3p inhibition attenuated tumor angiogenesis and growth in an HNSCC PDX model. MBNL1 feedback inhibited STAT3 activation in mTORC1-activated cells.

Conclusions
The STAT3/miR-130b-3p/MBNL1 feedback loop plays a vital role in mTORC1-mediated angiogenesis and tumor progression. This pathway could be targeted for therapeutic intervention of mTORC1-related cancers.
Fetal exposure to phthalates and bisphenols and DNA methylation at birth: the Generation R Study
Authors: Sol Chalana M. , Gaylord Abigail , Santos Susana , Jaddoe Vincent W. V. , Felix Janine F. , Trasande Leonardo 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background
Phthalates and bisphenols are non-persistent endocrine disrupting chemicals that are ubiquitously present in our environment and may have long-lasting health effects following fetal exposure. A potential mechanism underlying these exposure–outcome relationships is differential DNA methylation. Our objective was to examine the associations of maternal phthalate and bisphenol concentrations during pregnancy with DNA methylation in cord blood using a chemical mixtures approach.

Methods
This study was embedded in a prospective birth cohort study in the Netherlands and included 306 participants. We measured urine phthalates and bisphenols concentrations in the first, second and third trimester. Cord blood DNA methylation in their children was processed using the Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip using an epigenome-wide association approach. Using quantile g-computation, we examined the association of increasing all mixture components by one quartile with cord blood DNA methylation.

Results
We did not find evidence for statistically significant associations of a maternal mixture of phthalates and bisphenols during any of the trimesters of pregnancy with DNA methylation in cord blood (all p values > 4.01 * 10–8). However, we identified one suggestive association (p value < 1.0 * 10–6) of the first trimester maternal mixture of phthalates and bisphenols and three suggestive associations of the second trimester maternal mixture of phthalates and bisphenols with DNA methylation in cord blood.

Conclusions
Although we did not identify genome-wide significant results, we identified some suggestive associations of exposure to a maternal mixture of phthalates and bisphenols in the first and second trimester with DNA methylation in cord blood that need further exploration in larger study samples.
Does poverty increase COVID-19 in Africa? A cross-country analysis
Authors: Koudjom Etayibtalnam , Tamwo Sévérin , Kpognon Koffi D. 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background
Most economies in African countries are informal. As such, households in these countries tend to face higher levels of informality coupled with a lack of social protection, and have no replacement income or savings in the event of unexpected external shocks, such as COVID-19. Thus, the COVID-19 shock and its negative economic effects triggered a cascade of income losses and bankruptcies that pushed a significant share of households in African countries into poverty. This research analyzes the effect of poverty on the spread of COVID-19 using a sample of 52 African countries.

Methods
To achieve the objective of this research, this paper uses a multiple linear regression model and a sample of 52 African countries observed in 2020 to conduct a cross-country analysis. More importantly, two COVID-19 indicators (total number of officially reported cases and disease severity) and six poverty indicators (average poverty, poverty incidence, poverty depth, poverty severity, multidimensional poverty index, and extreme poverty) were used in this research.

Results
The results show a positive and significant relationship between poverty and the spread of COVID-19.

Conclusions
These results suggest that more attention needs to be paid to poor populations in African countries during the pandemic. These populations are generally vulnerable, and there is a need for support programs targeting them to be put in place quickly. These programs may include food aid, distribution of supplies, health care support, fee waivers, and interest deferrals. In addition, sensitization of these disadvantaged groups on vaccination against COVID-19 to achieve herd immunity is strongly encouraged.
Psychiatrists’ awareness of the cost of medication, rates of social disability pension, and their attitudes regarding knowledge of treatment costs
Authors: Lurie Ido , Maree Saed , Mendlovic Shlomo , Shefet Daphna 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background
Medication is a significant component of the cost of mental health care. Studies from different countries indicate that physicians are often not aware of medication costs, despite the impact of such knowledge on treatment plans. The purpose of this study was to examine Israeli psychiatrists’ knowledge regarding the cost of medication and rates of disability pension, and the impact of these factors on treatment decisions.

Methods
Cross-sectional study. A questionnaire was distributed by e-mail to psychiatry specialists and residents, including: (a) socio-demographic and professional information; (b) knowledge regarding rates of National Insurance disability pension and medications’ costs; (c) attitudes regarding relevance of knowledge of treatment costs. Correlations between socio-demographic variables and knowledge regarding treatment costs and attitudes were examined.

Results
Of the 175 psychiatrists who completed the questionnaire, 55% were men. The level of knowledge regarding cost of psychotropic medication and disability pension rates was low. Sixty-eight percent rated economic considerations as important or very important, yet 75% were informed of medication prices by their patients, and 57% by pharmaceutical companies. Doctors who worked in regions other than the center of the state were more aware of the economic aspects of treatment. Physicians who reported easy access to information regarding drug prices were less likely to err in estimating the price of medications.

Conclusions
Psychiatrists in Israel are not sufficiently informed of the costs of psychotropic medications, despite their awareness of the relevance of affordability to treatment compliance. Awareness of economic issues relating to treatment should be included in residency programs, and access to relevant information of medication cost and disability pensions should be more accessible to physicians both on national and local levels, by the government and health maintenance ogranizations (HMOs).
Ultra-light photosensor collars to monitor Arctic lemming activity
Authors: Bolduc David , Fauteux Dominique , Bharucha Éric , Trudeau Jean-Marie , Legagneux Pierre 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background
Studying the anti-predatory behavior of mammals represents an important challenge, especially for fossorial small mammals that hide in burrows. In the Arctic, such behaviors are critical to the survival of lemmings considering that predation risks are high every summer. Because detailed information about how lemmings use burrows as hideouts is still lacking, we developed a 1.59 g photosensitive collar to record any event of a small mammal moving between a dark area (e.g., burrow) and a bright area (e.g., outside the burrow). Tests of how collars affected lemming behavior were conducted in captivity in Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, Canada, in November 2019 and field tests were conducted on Bylot Island, Nunavut, Canada, in August 2021.

Results
The device was made of two chemical batteries and a printed circuit board (PCB) equipped with a photosensor and a real-time clock that recorded amplitude transient thresholds of light (lux) continuously. In accordance with ethical use of such devices, we verified that no abnormal loss of body mass was observed in captive or free-ranging lemmings, and no difference in recapture rates were observed between those with and without a collar, though we could not test this for periods longer than 108 h. Measurements of light intensities revealed consistent patterns with high lux levels at mid-day and lowest during the night. Lemmings showed clearly defined behavioral patterns alternating between periods outside and inside burrows. Despite 24-h daylight in the middle of the summer, August nighttime (i.e., 11 PM to 4 AM) lux levels were insufficient for amplitude transient thresholds to be reached.

Conclusion
By taking advantage of the long periods of daylight in the Arctic, such technology is very promising as it sets new bases for passive recording of behavioral parameters and builds on the prospect of further miniaturization of batteries and PCBs.
Physical Activity During Lockdowns Associated with the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Multilevel Meta-analysis of 173 Studies with 320,636 Participants
Authors: Wilke Jan , Rahlf Anna Lina , Füzéki Eszter , Groneberg David A. , Hespanhol Luiz , Mai Patrick , de Oliveira Gabriela Martins , Robbin Johanna , Tan Benedict , Willwacher Steffen , Hollander Karsten , Pillay Julian David 
Published: October 2022

AbstractBackgroundMany countries have restricted public life in order to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV2). As a side effect of related measures, physical activity (PA) levels may have decreased.ObjectiveWe aimed (1) to quantify changes in PA and (2) to identify variables potentially predicting PA reductions.MethodsA systematic review with random-effects multilevel meta-analysis was performed, pooling the standardized mean differences in PA measures before and during public life restrictions.ResultsA total of 173 trials with moderate methodological quality (modified Downs and Black checklist) were identified. Compared to pre-pandemic, total PA (SMD − 0.65, 95% CI − 1.10 to − 0.21) and walking (SMD − 0.52, 95% CI − 0.29 to − 0.76) decreased while sedentary behavior increased (SMD 0.91, 95% CI: 0.17 to 1.65). Reductions in PA affected all intensities (light: SMD − 0.35, 95% CI − 0.09 to − 0.61,p = .013; moderate: SMD − 0.33, 95% CI − 0.02 to − 0.6; vigorous: SMD − 0.33, − 0.08 to − 0.58, 95% CI − 0.08 to − 0.58) to a similar degree. Moderator analyses revealed no influence of variables such as sex, age, body mass index, or health status. However, the only continent without a PA reduction was Australia and cross-sectional trials yielded higher effect sizes (p < .05).ConclusionPublic life restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in moderate reductions in PA levels and large increases in sedentary behavior. Health professionals and policy makers should therefore join forces to develop strategies counteracting the adverse effects of inactivity.
The development of a health-promoting employment intervention with physical activity for young people Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET): NEXT STEP—on the path to education and job
Authors: Høy Teresa Victoria , Jørgensen Andreas , Andersen Susan , Petersen Christina Bjørk , Jørgensen Maja Bæksgaard , Grønbæk Morten , Sarí Sengül , Ottesen Laila , Hansen Gro Inge Lemcke , Holmberg Teresa 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background
In the EU, approx. 16.5% of the 20–34-year-olds are Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET). Research shows that good health is an important progression factor towards employment, and daily physical activity as well as participation in sports has a positive effect on physical and mental health as well as in the development of life skill. However, there is an absence of studies investigating what role physical activity can play in the employment efforts. The aim of this study is to investigate experiences with physical activity in employment interventions and to describe the development of a health-promoting employment intervention with physical activity for young people aged 18–30 years who are NEET.

Methods
The study combined an evidence-based approach with practice-based experiences. It included a Mapping of Danish employment interventions with physical activity for young people NEET, an overview of national reports and international literature, a workshop with leaders and employees from Danish municipalities, and fieldwork in four municipalities. Key findings were grouped thematically and were transformed into intervention content in a close dialog with relevant researchers and practitioners.

Results
In general, physical activity was assessed as a meaningful method when working with young people NEET. A range of positive experiences was highlighted, including successful experiences, surplus of mental resources, new ways of meeting, and new social relations. Based on these findings, a 16-week health-promoting employment intervention, NEXT STEP, was developed with the following intervention components: (1) fixed boundaries, (2) body and physical activity, (3) social relations and network, and (4) life skills and future. NEXT STEP is designed to be implemented in Danish job centers.

Conclusion
The study found the great potential of including physical activity in employment interventions for young people NEET. The planning and development of the intervention have reinforced a comprehensive evaluation; however, the first intervention in its entirety is ready for testing in a randomized feasibility trial.
SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence and infection rate in Manila, Philippines prior to national vaccination program implementation: a repeated cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Malijan Greco Mark B. , Edwards Tansy , Agrupis Kristal An , Suzuki Shuichi , Villanueva Annavi Marie G. , Sayo Ana Ria , De Guzman Ferdinand , Dimapilis Alexis Q. , Solante Rontgene M. , Telan Elizabeth O. , Umipig Dorcas V. , Ota Kenji , Nishimura Fumitaka , Yanagihara Katsunori , Salazar Mary Jane , Lopez Edmundo B. , Ariyoshi Koya , Smith Chris 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Background
SARS-CoV-2 seroepidemiological studies are used to guide public health decision making and to prepare for emerging infectious diseases. Disease occurrence estimates are limited in the Philippines, the country with the highest reported number of coronavirus disease-related deaths in the Western Pacific region. We aimed to estimate SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence and infection rate among outpatient clinic attendees in Metro Manila prior to the implementation of the national coronavirus disease vaccination program.

Methods
We conducted repeated cross-sectional surveys at the animal bite clinic in San Lazaro Hospital, Manila, the Philippines across four periods, 3 months apart, between May 2020 and March 2021. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess associations between different characteristics and infection status including seropositivity.

Results
In total 615 participants were enrolled, ranging from 115 to 174 per period. Seroprevalence quadrupled between the first (11.3%) and second (46.8%) periods and plateaued thereafter (third—46.0%, fourth—44.6%). Among seropositive participants, total antibody concentration was comparable throughout the first to third periods but declined between the third and fourth periods. Infection prevalence was comparable across enrollment periods (range 2.9–9.5%). Post-secondary education [aOR 0.42 (95% CI 0.26, 0.67)] was protective, and frontline work [aOR 1.81 (95% CI 1.18, 2.80)] was associated with increased odds of seropositivity. Frontline work status [aOR 2.27 (95% CI 1.10, 4.75)] and large household size [aOR 2.45 (95% CI 1.18, 5.49)] were associated with increased odds of infection.

Conclusions
The quadrupling of seroprevalence over 3 months between the first and second enrollment periods coincided with the high burden of infection in Metro Manila in early 2020. Our findings suggest a limit to the rise and potential decline of population-level SARS-CoV-2 infection-induced immunity without introduction of vaccines. These results may add to our understanding of how immunity develops against emerging infectious diseases including coronaviruses.
Risk-averse rehabilitation decision framework for roadside slopes vulnerable to rainfall-induced geohazards
Authors: Baral Anil , Shahandashti Mohsen 
Published: October 2022

AbstractRainfall-induced slope failures disrupt the traffic and warrant urgent slope repair works. The impact of roadside slope failures can be minimized if slopes are proactively rehabilitated. Nonetheless, transportation agencies are constrained in their budget to rehabilitate a limited number of slope segments due to competing maintenance needs among different transportation assets. Therefore, the transportation agencies should identify the critical slope combination that should be proactively rehabilitated under constraint budgets to lessen the impact on the transportation network during extreme rainfall events. The decision-making approach for slope rehabilitation should also ensure low risk associated with the selected rehabilitation strategy. Current slope-rehabilitation decision models do not consider the risk associated with the rehabilitation strategies in the decision-making process. The objective of this study is to develop a risk-averse stochastic combinatorial optimization to facilitate the selection of slope rehabilitation strategies, which leads to the least expected cost and conditional value at risk (CVaR) for extreme rainfall events. The simulated annealing approach is used to solve the risk-averse combinatorial optimization rehabilitation problem with the objective function that measures the total cost of traffic disruption and slope restoration post-failures. The approach is demonstrated using a transportation network in Lamar County, Texas. Unlike a genetic algorithm-based approach in the literature that yields a single slope rehabilitation strategy, the proposed risk-averse simulated annealing approach identifies rehabilitation strategies along the Pareto efficient frontier facilitating the rehabilitation decisions based on the tradeoff between expected cost and CVaR. For the network in Lamar County, the proposed risk-averse simulated annealing provided a solution in the Pareto front that reduced CVaR by 2.0% compared to the solution obtained from the genetic algorithm-based approach while only increasing the expected cost by 0.8%. The risk-averse optimization approach will aid transportation agencies in determining slope rehabilitation strategies for minimizing the impact of rainfall-induced failures at appropriate risk aversion levels.
Bio-energy auditing, system productivity, energy efficiencies and economics of different direct-seeded basmati rice-based cropping systems and nutrient management options
Authors: Verma Rakesh Kumar , Shivay Yashbir Singh , Prasanna Radha , Ghasal Prakash Chand , Parihar Chiter Mal , Choudhary Mukesh , Madar Raghavendra 
Published: October 2022

AbstractBackgroundDiversification, intensification, new water and integrated nutrient management methods of rice-based cropping systems are being advocated as an alternative to the water-intensive nature of conventional rice cultivation in north-western India to address the issues of decline in the productivity, energy and nutritional scarcity and deteriorating soil fertility. Hence, the development of eco-friendly cropping systems with efficient nutrient management is essential for sustainable productivity.Material and methodsThe experiment was conducted with four cropping systems viz. direct-seededbasmatirice (DSBR)-wheat-fallow, DSBR-wheat-greengram, DSBR-cabbage-greengram and DSBR-cabbage-onion, being assigned to vertical strips; and 4 nutrient management strategies (MNS), viz. control, 100% RDF (recommended dose of fertilizers), 50% RDF + 25% RDN (recommended dose of nitrogen) through leaf compost + biofertilizers and 50% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost + biofertilizers assigned to horizontal strips.ResultsThe highest system productivity (20.7 Mg/ha) was registered in DSBR-cabbage-onion and with a nutrient management strategy of 50% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost + biofertilizers (13.5 Mg/ha). The highest net energy (269.6 × 103 MJ/ha) was generated under DSBR-wheat-greengram. Among different NMS, the highest energy output efficiency was recorded under NS3(0.20 × 103 MJ/ha/day). The CS2had 20.4% and 20.2% higher total system protein yield and protein equivalent yield for adults than DSBR-wheat-fallow, respectively. Application of NS3had the highest total system protein yield (89.7%) and protein equivalent yield for adults (92.6%) over the control (NS0). The maximum net return (5755 US$/ha) was obtained under CS4.ConclusionA cropping system involving DSBR-cabbage-onion and application of 50% RDF + 25% RDN through vermicompost + biofertilizers is identified as the most productive, energy efficient and profitable production system.