bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Depression and its associated factors among COVID-19 survivors in a middle income country
Authors: Moy Foong Ming , Jian Lim Eugene Ri , Hairi Noran Naqiah , Bulgiba Awang 
Published: December 2022

AbstractIntroductionCOVID-19 survivors who have mental health issues are more likely to have a lower quality of life, reduced work productivity, social troubles, and other health issues. However, information on the mental health of COVID-19 survivors is scarce. Therefore, we aimed to determine the COVID-19 survivors’ mental health status in the form of depression and its associated factors.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study conducted in Malaysia, from July to September 2021, during a nationwide lockdown. Data was collected using an online questionnaire shared on social and news media. Socio-demographic variables, comorbidities, self-perception of health, information on the person’s acute condition during COVID-19 infection, symptoms and duration of symptoms post-COVID, and state of depression were gathered. The Patient Health Questionnaire 9 was used to assess depression. Factors associated with mild to severe depression were analysed using both univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses.ResultsA total of 732 COVID-19 survivors responded to the survey. The respondents were mainly females and of younger age (in their 20s and 30s). Two-thirds perceived themselves to be in good health. One in five reported to have experienced Long COVID. Slightly less than half (47.3%) of the respondents had mild to severe depression (total PHQ-9 score of 5 -27). In the multivariable analysis, being female (aOR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.08,2.62), of younger age (20s – aOR: 3.26; 95% CI: 1.47, 7.25; 30s – aOR: 2.08; 95% CI: 1.05, 4.15; and 40s – aOR: 2.43; 95% CI: 1.20, 4.90; compared to those in the 50s and above), being overweight/obese (aOR: 1.83; 95% CI: 1.18, 2.83), having Long COVID (aOR: 2.45; 95% CI: 1.45, 4.16) and perceiving to have poorer health (aOR: 4.54; 95% CI: 2.89, 7.13) were associated with mild to severe depression.ConclusionFemales, younger age groups, being overweight/obese, having Long COVID and perceiving to be in poor health were factors associated with higher odds for mild to severe depression.
ASXL1mutations that cause Bohring Opitz Syndrome (BOS) or acute myeloid leukemia share epigenomic and transcriptomic signatures
Authors: Lin Isabella , Awamleh Zain , Wei Angela , Russell Bianca , Weksberg Rosanna , Arboleda Valerie A. 
Published: December 2022

AbstractDe novo, truncating variants ofASXL1cause two distinct disorders: Bohring-Opitz Syndrome (BOS, OMIM #605039) a rare pediatric disorder characterized by multiorgan anomalies that disrupt normal brain, heart, and bone development causing severe intellectual disability or are somatic driver mutations causing acute myeloid leukemia(AML). Despite their distinct clinical presentations, we propose thatASXL1mutations drive common epigenetic and transcriptomic dysregulation in BOS and AML. We analyzed DNA methylation (DNAm) and RNA-seq data from BOS patients (n=13) and controls (n=38) and publicly available DNAm of AML cases with (n=3) and without (n=3)ASXL1mutations from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and RNA-seq data from AML cases (n=27) from the Beat AML cohort. Using a DNA-methylation based episignature that we previously developed for BOS, we clustered AML, BOS and normal controls together. We showed that AML samples withASXL1mutations clustered closest to individuals with BOS, whereas individuals with AML withoutASXL1mutations clustered separately. We also observe common dysregulation of the transcriptome between BOS and AML withASXL1mutations compared to controls. Our transcriptomic analysis identified 821 significantly differentially expressed genes that were shared between both data sets and 74.9% showed differential expression in the same direction. BOS patients are rare and have some reports of tumors but no clear guidelines on cancer screening protocols. This represents the first direct comparison between distinct diseases that show common epigenetic and transcriptomic effects, and potentially common drug targets for patients harboringASXL1mutations on the epigenome and transcriptome.KEY POINTSAcute myeloid leukemias harboring somaticASXL1driver mutations and Bohring-Opitz syndrome caused by germlineASXL1mutations share common epigenomic and transcriptomic dysregulationA gene-centric approach can inform molecular mechanisms across distinct disease types and point towards shared targetable pathways.
Chiral and nematic phases of flexible active filaments
Authors: Dunajova Zuzana , Mateu Batirtze Prats , Radler Philipp , Lim Keesiang , Velicky Philipp , Danzl Johann Georg , Wong Richard W. , Elgeti Jens , Hannezo Edouard , Loose Martin 
Published: December 2022

AbstractThe emergence of large-scale order in self-organized systems relies on local interactions between individual components. During bacterial cell division, the tubulin-homolog FtsZ polymerizes into treadmilling filaments that further assemble into a cytoskeletal ring. Although minimalin vitroassays have shown the striking self-organization capacity of FtsZ filaments, such as dynamic chiral assemblies, how these large-scale structures emerge and relate to individual filament properties remains poorly understood. To understand this quantitatively, we combined minimal chiral active matter simulations with biochemical reconstitution experiments. Using STED and TIRF microscopy as well as high-speed AFM, we imaged the behavior of FtsZ filaments on different spatial scales. Simulations and experiments revealed that filament density and flexibility define the local and global order of the system: At intermediate densities, flexible filaments organize into chiral rings and polar bands, while an effectively nematic organization dominates for high filament densities and for mutant filaments with increased rigidity. Our predicted phase diagram captured these features quantitatively, demonstrating how filament flexibility, density and chirality cooperate with activity to give rise to a large repertoire of collective behaviors. These properties are likely important for the dynamic organization of soft chiral matter, including that of treadmilling FtsZ filaments during bacterial cell division.
Restoring glucose homeostasis with stomach-derived human insulin-secreting organoids
Authors: Huang Xiaofeng , Gu Wei , Zhang Jiaoyue , Lan Ying , Colarusso Jonathan L. , Li Sanlan , Pertl Christoph , Lu Jiaqi , Kim Hyunkee , Zhu Jian , Sévigny Jean , Zhou Qiao 
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACTGut stem cells are accessible by biopsy and propagate robustly in culture, offering an invaluable resource for autologous cell therapies. Insulin-producing cells can be induced in mouse gut, but it has not been possible to generate abundant and durable insulin-secreting cells from human gut tissues to evaluate their potential as a cell therapy for diabetes. Here we describe a protocol to differentiate cultured human gastric stem cells (hGSCs) into pancreatic islet-like organoids containing gastric insulin-secreting (GINS) cells that resemble β-cells in molecular hallmarks and function. Sequential activation of the inducing factors NGN3 and PDX1-MAFA led hGSCs onto a novel differentiation path, including a SOX4Highendocrine and GalaninHighGINS precursor, before adopting β-cell identity, at efficiencies close to 70%. GINS organoids acquired glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in 10 days and restored glucose homeostasis for over 100 days in diabetic mice after transplantation, providing proof of concept for a new approach to treat diabetes.
Piccolino regulates the architecture of the ribbon at cochlear inner hair cell synapses
Authors: Michanski Susann , Kapoor Rohan , Steyer Anna M. , Möbius Wiebke , Früholz Iris , Ackermann Frauke , Gültas Mehmet , Garner Craig C. , Hamra F. Kent , Neef Jakob , Strenzke Nicola , Moser Tobias , Wichmann Carolin 
Published: December 2022

AbstractCochlear inner hair cells (IHCs) form specialized ribbon synapses with spiral ganglion neurons that tireless-ly transmit sound information at high rates over long time periods with extreme temporal precision. This functional specialization is essential for precise sound encoding and is attributed to a distinct molecular machinery with unique players or splice variants compared to conventional neuronal synapses. Among these is the active zone (AZ) scaffold protein piccolo/aczonin, which is represented by its short splice variant piccolino at cochlear and retinal ribbon synapses. While the function of piccolo at synapses of the central nervous system has been intensively investigated, the role of piccolino at IHC synapses remains unclear. In this study, we characterized the structure and function of IHC-synapses in piccolo gene-trap mutant rats (Pclogt/gt). We found a mild hearing deficit with elevated thresholds and reduced amplitudes of auditory brainstem responses. Ca2+channel distribution and ribbon morphology were altered in apical IHCs, while their presynaptic function seemed unchanged. We conclude that piccolino contributes to the AZ organization in IHCs and is essential for normal synaptic transmission.
Grid cell disruption in a mouse model of early Alzheimer’s disease reflects reduced integration of self-motion cues and increased influence of environmental geometry
Authors: Ying Johnson , Reboreda Antonio , Yoshida Motoharu , Brandon Mark P. 
Published: December 2022

AbstractGrid cell impairments and path integration deficits are sensitive markers of early Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Converging evidence from human and rodent studies suggest that disrupted grid coding underlies path integration deficits in preclinical individuals. However, it still remains unclear if disrupted early AD grid coding reflects increased noise across the network or a specific deficit in path integration, perhaps via an impairment in the integration of self-motion cues. Here, we report in the J20 transgenic amyloid beta mouse model of early AD that grid cells were spatially unstable towards the center of the square arena but not near the borders, had qualitatively different spatial components that aligned parallel to the borders of the environment, and exhibited impaired integration of distance travelled via reduced theta phase precession. Our results suggest that disrupted early AD grid coding reflects reduced integration of self-motion cues but not environmental landmarks, providing further evidence that grid cell impairments underlie specific path integration deficits in early AD.
Can suitability indices predict plant growth in the invaded range? The case of Acacias species
Authors: Silva Carmen P. , López Daniela N. , Naulin Paulette I. , Estay Sergio A. 
Published: December 2022

AbstractForestry in many parts of the world depends on exotic species, making this industry a source of invasions in some countries. Among others, plantations of the genus Pinus, Eucalyptus, Acacia, Populus, and Pseudotsuga underpin the forestry industry and are a vital component of many countries economies. Among woody plants, the cosmopolitan genus Acacia includes some of the most commonly planted trees worldwide. In order to prevent, manage and control invasive plant species, one of the most used tools is species distribution models. The output of these models can also be used to obtain information about population characteristics, such as spatial abundance patterns or species performance. Although ecological theory suggests a direct link between fitness and suitability, this link is often absent. The reasons behind the lack of this relationship are multiple. Chile is one of the countries where Acacia species, in particular,A. dealbataandA. melanoxylon, have become invaders. Here, we used climatic and edaphic variables to predict the potentially suitable habitats forA. dealbataandA. melanoxylonin continental Chile and evaluate if the suitability indices obtained from these models are associated with the observed performance of the trees along the country. Our models show that variable importance showed significant similarities between the variables that characterize each species’ niche. However, despite the high accuracy of our models, we did not observe an association between suitability and tree growth. This disconnection between suitability and performance can result from multiple causes, from structural limitations, like the lack of biotic interactions in the models, to methodological issues, like the usefulness of the performance metric used. Whatever the scenario, our results suggest that plans to control invasive species should be cautious in assuming this relationship in their design and consider other indicators such as species establishment success.
Developmentally programmed switches in DNA replication: gene amplification and genome-wide endoreplication in Tetrahymena
Authors: Meng Xiangzhou , Dang Hung Quang , Kapler Geoffrey M. 
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACTLocus-specific gene amplification and genome-wide endoreplication generate the elevated copy number of ribosomal DNA (rDNA, 9000 C) and non-rDNA (45 C) chromosomes in the developing macronucleus ofTetrahymena thermophila. Subsequently, all macronuclear chromosomes replicate once per cell cycle during vegetative growth. Here we describe an unanticipated, programmed switch in the regulation of replication initiation in the rDNA minichomosome. Early in development the 21 kb rDNA minichromosome is preferentially amplified from 2 C to ~800 C from well-defined origins, concurrent with genome-wide endoreplication (2 C to 8-16 C) in starved mating Tetrahymena (endoreplication (ER) Phase 1). Upon refeeding, rDNA and non-rDNA chromosomes achieve their final copy number through resumption of just the endoreplication program (ER Phase 2). Unconventional rDNA replication intermediates are generated primarily during ER phase 2, consistent with delocalized replication initiation and possible formation of persistent RNA-DNA hybrids. Origin usage and replication fork elongation are affected in non-rDNA chromosomes as well. Despite the developmentally programmed 10-fold reduction in the ubiquitous eukaryotic initiator, the Origin Recognition Complex (ORC), active initiation sites are more closely spaced in ER phases 1 and 2 compared to vegetative growing cells. We propose that initiation site selection is relaxed in endoreplicating macronuclear chromosomes and may be less dependent on ORC.
Building information modelling adoption for construction waste reduction in the construction industry of a developing country
Authors: Eze Emmanuel Chidiebere , Aghimien Douglas Omoregie , Aigbavboa Clinton Ohis , Sofolahan Onyinye 
Published: December 2022

PurposeThis paper aims to present the result of an assessment of the potential effect of building information modelling (BIM) adoption on the reduction of construction waste (CW) from a developing country's perspective. This was done with a view to reducing the waste generated in construction projects particularly at the design and pre-contract stages.Design/methodology/approachThe study adopted a post-positivism philosophical approach, which informed the use of a quantitative research design and a questionnaire as instrument for data collection. The data gathered from construction professionals in the Nigeria construction industry were analysed using an array of statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, Kruskal–Wallis H-test, Kendall's coefficient of concordance, chi-square and exploratory factors analysis.FindingsThe study revealed five major groups of factors causing CW at the design and pre-contract stages that can be avoided or minimised through BIM implementation. These are; (1) errors in design and documentation, (2) specification and quality factors, (3) estimating and site condition factors, (4) planning of work factors and (5) procurement related factors.Practical implicationsThe findings of the study offer practical insight for industry participants on the need for BIM implementation to reduce CW by identifying the diverse areas responsible for these waste generation.Originality/valueWhile there has been significant literature on BIM implementation, contributions on the effect of this technology in reducing waste generation particular at the design and pre-contract stages in developing countries has been almost non-existent. This study strives to fill in this gap by showcasing the major waste generating activities that can be avoided through the use of BIM.
Innovation conviction, innovation mindset and innovation creed as precursors for the need for achievement and women's entrepreneurial success in South Africa: entrepreneurial education as a moderator
Authors: Maziriri Eugine Tafadzwa , Nyagadza Brighton , Chuchu Tinashe 
Published: December 2022

PurposeThis study aims to determine the impact of innovation conviction, innovation mindset and innovation creed on the need for achievement and the success of women entrepreneurs. The study also investigates the impact of entrepreneurial education in moderating the relationship between the need for achievement and women’s entrepreneurial success.Design/methodology/approachThe study used a structured questionnaire and a quantitative research design. Data were gathered from 304 women entrepreneurs in South Africa’s Gauteng province. The data were analysed using smart partial least squares.FindingsThe results showed that innovation conviction, innovation mindset and innovation creed have positive and significant impacts on the need for achievement. It was also discovered that the need for achievement and entrepreneurial education have a positive and significant impact on women's entrepreneurial success. Moreover, the results showed that entrepreneurial education had a positive and significant moderating effect on the nexus between the need for achievement and women's entrepreneurial success.Practical implicationsBy comprehensively examining the impact of innovation conviction, innovation mindset and innovation creed on the need for achievement and women's entrepreneurial success, this study has valuable implications for academics.Originality/valueThis research will add to the corpus of information on women's entrepreneurship and small business management in Africa, which is generally overlooked by academics in developing countries.
Scale development for school administrators' corporate reputation building studies
Authors: Akıllı Ceyda 
Published: December 2022

PurposeThe aim of this research is to develop a scale that determines the views of teachers on the efforts of educational administrators to build corporate reputation within the scope of modern education paradigms.Design/methodology/approachThe research is based on a scale development method whose validity and reliability analyzes have been completed.FindingsAs a result of the research, a 1-dimensional and 15-item scale was obtained, which aims to evaluate the corporate reputation building efforts of school administrators from the perspective of teachers. When the literature is examined, there are many scales on corporate reputation; however, the literature determined that there is no scale that aims to determine the opinions of teachers about the reputation building efforts of education administrators.Originality/valueEducational administrators engage in efforts to build corporate reputation through stakeholder analysis, needs analysis, strategic plan development, organizational design and change management (Lawler et al., 2006). Specializing in this field is very important for training managers by taking training on human resources in order to carry out effective work in the process of corporate reputation formation, and the human resources of the institution are the groups that will best evaluate the reputation building efforts of the managers (Lockwood, 2007).
Islamic banking, efficiency and societal welfare: a machine-learning, agent-based study
Authors: Polyzos Efstathios , Samitas Aristeidis , Syriopoulos Konstantinos 
Published: December 2022

Purpose
This paper models the benefits of Islamic banking on the efficiency of the banking sector and on societal happiness. This paper aims to examine how the adoption of Islamic banking to various degrees affects economics outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach
This study uses machine-learning tools to build a happiness function and integrate it in an agent-based model to test for the direct and indirect welfare effects of implementing Islamic banking principles.

Findings
This study shows that even though Islamic banking systems tend to reduce economic activity, financial stability and societal happiness is improved. Additionally, a banking sector using Islamic principles across all its members is better equipped to handle banking crises because contagion to both economic activity and societal welfare is greatly reduced. At the same time, adoption of the profit-and-loss sharing (PLS) paradigm by banks may also slow down economic growth.

Research limitations/implications
The findings extend existing literature on the advantages of Islamic banking, by quantifying the welfare benefits of the PLS paradigm on happiness and financial stability.

Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first to combine agent-based modelling with machine learning tools to examine the benefits of the Islamic banking model on financial stability, social welfare and unemployment.
The couch as a classroom: exploring the school environment of low-income Latine adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Renick Jennifer , Reich Stephanie M. 
Published: December 2022

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to uncover what the at-home educational environments of low-income Latine adolescents looked like during the COVID-19 pandemic and how these environments influenced students’ participation in their online classes. Additionally, the findings highlight students’ perspectives on their varied engagement in virtual instruction.

Design/methodology/approach
Data for this study were collected via an online survey that included both open and close-ended questions. Students were able to share about their behaviors and comfort in their online classes, as well as provide photos of the areas from which they joined their online classes. Quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods were used.

Findings
Many students in the sample expressed discomfort with themselves and their homes being seen on camera and shared having to juggle multiple responsibilities during online classes. Photos uploaded revealed that at-home educational environments often lacked the resources afforded by in-school instruction, with students joining classes from areas that may not be conducive to learning.

Originality/value
Research has highlighted the ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic may have exacerbated existing issues of educational equity, but the systemic reasons for these inequities remain understudied. The results from this study highlight the ways in which disparate at-home learning environments may help to explain unequal engagement in online classes.