bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Underlying reasons for post-mortem diagnosed lung cancer cases – A robust retrospective comparative study from Hungary (HULC study)
Authors: Kiss Zoltán , Bogos Krisztina , Tamási Lilla , Ostoros Gyula , Müller Veronika , Bittner Nóra , Sárosi Veronika , Vastag Aladár , Knollmajer Kata , Várnai Máté , Kovács Krisztina , Berta Andrea , Köveskuti István , Karamousouli Eugenia , Rokszin György , Abonyi-Tóth Zsolt , Barcza Zsófia , Kenessey István , Weber András , Nagy Péter , Freyler-Fadgyas Petra , Szócska Miklós , Szegner Péter , Hilbert Lászlóné , Géczy Gabriella Branyiczkiné , Surján György , Moldvay Judit , Vokó Zoltán , Gálffy Gabriella , Polányi Zoltán 
Published: August 2022

ABSTRACTObjectiveThe Hungarian Undiagnosed Lung Cancer (HULC) study aimed to explore the potential reasons for missed LC diagnosis by comparing healthcare and socio-economic data among patients with post-mortem diagnosed LC with those who were diagnosed with LC during their lives.MethodsThis nationwide, retrospective study used the databases of the Hungarian Central Statistical Office (HCSO) and National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to identify patients who died between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019 and were diagnosed with lung cancer post-mortem (population A) or during their lifetime (population B). Patient characteristics, socio-economic factors, and healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) data were compared between the diagnosed and undiagnosed patient population.ResultsDuring the study period, 8,435 patients were identified from the HCSO database with LC as the cause of death, of whom 1,203 (14.24%) had no LC-related ICD code records in the NHIF database during their lives (post-mortem diagnosed LC population). Post-mortem diagnosed LC patients were significantly older than patients diagnosed while still alive (mean age 71.20 vs. 68.69 years, p<0.001), with a more pronounced age difference among female patients (difference: 4.57 years, p<0.001), and had significantly fewer GP and specialist visits, X-ray and CT scans within 7 to 24 months and 6 months before death, although the differences in GP and specialist visits within 7–24 months did not seem clinically relevant. Patients diagnosed with LC while still alive were more likely to be married (47.62% vs. 33.49%), had higher educational attainment, and had more children, than patients diagnosed with LC post-mortem.ConclusionsPost-mortem diagnosed lung cancer accounts for 14.24% of total lung cancer mortality in Hungary. This study provides valuable insights into patient characteristics, socio-economic factors, and HCRU data potentially associated with a high risk of lung cancer misdiagnosis.
Risk of Cancer After Diagnosis of Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Bell Caitlin F. , Lei Xiudong , Baylis Richard , Gao Hua , Luo Lingfeng , Giordano Sharon H. , Wehner Mackenzie R. , Nead Kevin T. , Leeper Nicholas J. 
Published: August 2022

AbstractBackgroundCardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer share several risk factors. While preclinical models show that various types of CVD can accelerate cancer progression, clinical studies have not determined the impact of atherosclerosis on cancer risk.ObjectivesTo determine whether CVD, especially atherosclerotic CVD, is independently associated with incident cancer.MethodsUsing IBM MarketScan claims data from over 130 million individuals, we identified 27 million cancer-free subjects with a minimum of 36 months of follow-up data. Individuals were stratified by presence or absence of CVD, with 1:1 propensity matching to control for cardiovascular risk factors, and cumulative risk of cancer was calculated. Additional analyses were performed according to CVD type (atherosclerotic vs non-atherosclerotic) and cancer subtype.ResultsAmong 4,487,412 matched individuals, those with CVD had a 1.26-fold higher relative risk of cancer than those without CVD (6.8% vs 5.4% 5-year cumulative incidence). Results were more pronounced for individuals with atherosclerotic CVD (aCVD), who had a 1.43-fold higher relative risk than those without CVD (7.7% 5-year cumulative cancer incidence). Findings persisted after multivariable adjustment for numerous traditional CV risk factors, including the modestly higher risk for cancer amongst individuals with atherosclerotic CVD. Cancer subtype analyses showed specific associations of aCVD with several malignancies, including lung, bladder, liver, brain, and other hematologic cancers.ConclusionsIndividuals with CVD have an increased risk of developing cancer compared to those without CVD. This association may be driven in part by the relationship of atherosclerosis with specific cancer subtypes, which persists after controlling for conventional risk factors.
Identification of Potential Blood-based Biomarkers for Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Kundu Adrija 
Published: August 2022

AbstractMultiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease affecting millions of people worldwide caused by an abnormal immune response that deteriorates the myelin sheath encapsulating neurons, drastically impairing neural communication. Currently, no tests can guarantee the diagnosis of MS until symptoms become severe. Early-stage diagnosis for MS is beneficial as it allows for an early start to treatment that slows its progression. This project aimed to analyze data from gene expression studies and identify commonly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the blood of MS patients. 183 overexpressed DEGs were identified and a diagram depicting protein interactions was generated with STRINGDB. Cytoscape was used to analyze interactions and recognize Hub genes. Further analysis on PANTHER showed that the biological processes of “tRNA aminoacylation for protein translation” and “mitochondrial translational elongation” were enriched in the upregulated DEGs. Furthermore, processes directly connected to the immune system such as the “Fc receptor signaling pathway” and “antigen processing and presentation of peptide antigen” were overrepresented. The identified Hub genes RPS27A, NSA2, RPS15A, and POLR2C are potential biomarkers for MS and warrant further study. Overall, this study could provide greater insight into the molecular pathways of MS and evidence to support which genes are overexpressed in MS.
Origins of proprioceptor feature selectivity and topographic maps in theDrosophilaleg
Authors: Mamiya Akira , Sustar Anne , Siwanowicz Igor , Qi Yanyan , Lu Tzu-Chiao , Gurung Pralaksha , Chen Chenghao , Phelps Jasper S. , Kuan Aaron T. , Pacureanu Alexandra , Lee Wei-Chung Allen , Li Hongjie , Mhatre Natasha , Tuthill John C. 
Published: August 2022

AbstractOur ability to sense and move our bodies relies on proprioceptors, sensory neurons that detect mechanical forces within the body. Proprioceptors are diverse: different subtypes detect different features of joint kinematics, such as position, directional movement, and vibration. However, because they are located within complex and dynamic peripheral tissues, the underlying mechanisms of proprioceptor feature selectivity remain poorly understood. Here, we investigate molecular and biomechanical contributions to proprioceptor diversity in theDrosophilaleg. Using single-nucleus RNA sequencing, we found that different proprioceptor subtypes express similar complements of mechanosensory and other ion channels. However, anatomical reconstruction of the proprioceptive organ and connected tendons revealed major biomechanical differences between proprioceptor subtypes. We constructed a computational model of the proprioceptors and tendons, which identified a putative biomechanical mechanism for joint angle selectivity. The model also predicted the existence of a goniotopic map of joint angle among position-tuned proprioceptors, which we confirmed using calcium imaging. Our findings suggest that biomechanical specialization is a key determinant of proprioceptor feature selectivity inDrosophila. More broadly, our discovery of proprioceptive maps in the fly leg reveals common organizational principles between proprioception and other topographically organized sensory systems.
Procalcitonin and High APACHE Scores are Associated with the Development of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Jorge Andrade Sierra , Claudia Delgado Astorga , Miriam Gabriela Nava Vargas , Enrique Rojas Campos , Kevin Javier Arellano Arteaga , Morales Karla Hernández , Andrade Castellanos Carlos A , Antonio de Jesús Andrade-Ortega , Luis Gerardo González-Correa 
Published: August 2022

AbstractBackgroundAcute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with poor outcomes in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Sepsis, direct injury to kidney cells by the virus, and severe systemic inflammation are mechanisms implicated in its development. We investigated the association between inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase, and ferritin) in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 and the development of AKI.MethodsA prospective cohort study performed at the Civil Hospital (Dr. Juan I. Menchaca) Guadalajara, Mexico, included patients aged >18 years with a diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia confirmed by RT-PCR and who did or did not present with AKI (KDIGO) while hospitalized. Biomarkers of inflammation were recorded, and kidney function was estimated using the CKD-EPI formula.Results291 patients were included (68% men; mean age, 57 years). The incidence of AKI was 40.5% (118 patients); 21% developed stage 1 AKI, 6% developed stage 2 AKI, and 14% developed stage 3 AKI. The development of AKI was associated with phosphate higher (p = 0.002) (RR 1.39, CI 95% 1.13 – 1.72), high procalcitonin levels at hospital admission (p = 0.005) (RR 2.09, CI 95% 1.26-3.50), and high APACHE scores (p = 0.011) (RR 2.0, CI 95% 1.17-3.40). The survival analysis free of AKI according to procalcitonin levels and APACHE scores demonstrated a lower survival in patients with procalcitonin >0.5 ng/ml (p= 0.001) and APACHE >15 points (p = 0.004).Conclusionsphosphate, high procalcitonin levels, and APACHE scores >15 were predictors of AKI development in patients hospitalized with COVID-19.
Cyclical Student Shifting Models in a Limited Face-to-Face Learning Modality in the time of COVID-19 Pandemic in the Philippines
Authors: Balsomo Alexander J. , Sabinay Stephen G. 
Published: August 2022

AbstractIntroductionA joint memorandum circular (JMC No. 2021-001) was released by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Health (DOH) in the Philippines, outlining the guidelines on the gradual reopening of higher education campuses for limited face-to-face classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Besides the strict enforcement of health protocols, the said circular recommended for the reduction of COVID-19 reproduction number by limiting the number of students present within the campus through the adoption of a cyclical student shifting model. This study evaluates 32 cyclical 2-shift models and how these schedules minimizes COVID-19 incidence in the campus.MethodA compartmental SEIRS model is used to simulate the number of infection for a 36-week period where the proposed 32 cyclical schedules and health protocols, such as the wearing of minimum personal protective gears and physical distancing, are inserted into the model.ResultThe simulation has shown that all of the proposed schedules result to low disease transmission as long as there is strong adherence to health protocols among students or strict implementation of health policies for at least 18 weeks; otherwise, the 4-10 cycle model is recommended, or shifting schedules with 3-4 consecutive weeks of in-campus classes when health protocols are poorly implemented.ConclusionThe results of this study will guide university administrators in crafting their COVID-19 academic plan, especially in the selection of a suitable cyclical shifting schedule for their institution.
Identification of GTF2IRD1 as a novel transcription factor essential for acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Heshmati Yaser , Türköz Gözde , Dimitriou Marios , Harisankar Aditya , Boström Johan , Cai Huan , Kadri Nadir , Altun Mikael , Qian Hong , Walfridsson Julian 
Published: August 2022

AbstractAcute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive blood malignancy characterized by clonal accumulating of immature myeloid progenitors in the bone marrow and peripheral blood. Transcription factors are the most frequently mutated and dysregulated genes in AML and they have critical roles in AML pathogenesis and progression. In this study, we performed large-scale RNA interference screens in MLL-AF9 transformed AML cells and identified GTF2IRD1 as a novel transcription factor essential for the survival of various types of myeloid leukemic cells in vitro and in vivo, but not for primary normal hematopoietic cells. Inhibition of GTF2IRD1 reduced the frequency of primary childhood and adult AML cells, including cell populations enriched for leukemia-initiating cells. In animal models for AML, inhibition of GTF2IRD1 significantly delayed the disease progression. Inhibition of GTF2IRD1 caused an accumulation of quiescent AML cells in the G0 phase of the cell cycle but caused minor effects in apoptosis. In line with this, RNA sequencing analysis revealed a significant downregulation of E2F targets as a consequence of inhibition of GTF2IRD1. Taken together, we identified GTF2IRD1 as a transcription factor with a selective importance in AML and our findings may contribute to new therapeutic inventions for the disease.
The delta-opioid receptor bidirectionally modulates itch
Authors: Smith Kelly M. , Nguyen Eileen , Ross Sarah E 
Published: August 2022

AbstractOpioid signaling has been shown to be critically important in the neuromodulation of sensory circuits in the superficial spinal cord. Agonists of the mu-opioid receptor (MOR) elicit itch, whereas agonists of the kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) have been shown to inhibit itch. Despite the clear roles of MOR and KOR for the modulation itch, whether the delta-opioid receptor (DOR) is involved in the regulation of itch remained unknown. Here, we show that intrathecal administration of DOR agonists suppresses chemical itch and that intrathecal application of DOR antagonists is sufficient to evoke itch. We identify that spinal enkephalin neurons co-express neuropeptide Y (NPY), a peptide previously implicated in the inhibition of itch. In the spinal cord, DOR overlapped with both the NPY receptor (NPY1R) and KOR, suggesting that DOR neurons represent a site for convergent itch information in the dorsal horn. Lastly, we found that neurons co-expressing DOR and KOR showed significant Fos induction following pruritogen-evoked itch. These results uncover a role for DOR in the modulation of itch in the superficial dorsal horn.PerspectiveThis article reveals the role of the delta opioid receptor in itch. Intrathecal administration of delta agonists suppresses itch whereas the administration of delta antagonists is sufficient to induce itch. These studies highlight the importance of delta-opioid signaling for the modulation of itch behaviors, which may represent new targets for the management of itch disorders.
Function and Cryo-EM structures of broadly potent bispecific antibodies against multiple SARS-CoV-2 Omicron sublineages
Authors: Ren Ping , Hu Yingxia , Peng Lei , Yang Luojia , Suzuki Kazushi , Fang Zhenhao , Bai Meizhu , Zhou Liqun , Feng Yanzhi , Zou Yongji , Xiong Yong , Chen Sidi 
Published: August 2022

AbstractThe SARS-CoV-2 variant, Omicron (B.1.1.529), rapidly swept the world since its emergence. Compared with previous variants, Omicron has a high number of mutations, especially those in its spike glycoprotein that drastically dampen or abolish the efficacy of currently available vaccines and therapeutic antibodies. Several major sublineages of Omicron evolved, including BA.1, BA.1.1, BA.2, BA.2.12.1, BA.3, BA.4/5, and BA.2.75, which rapidly changing the global and regional landscape of the pandemic. Although vaccines are available, therapeutic antibodies remain critical for infected and especially hospitalized patients. To address this, we have designed and generated a panel of human/humanized therapeutic bispecific antibodies against Omicron and its sub-lineage variants, with activity spectrum against other lineages. Among these, the top clone CoV2-0213 has broadly potent activities against multiple SARS-CoV-2 ancestral and Omicron lineages, including BA.1, BA.1.1, BA.2, BA.2.12.1, BA.3, BA.4/5, and BA.2.75. We have solved the cryo-EM structure of the lead bi-specific antibody CoV-0213 and its major Fab arm MB.02. Three-dimensional structural analysis shows distinct epitope of antibody - spike receptor binding domain (RBD) interactions and reveals that both Fab fragments of CoV2-0213 can simultaneously target one single spike RBD or two adjacent ones in the same spike trimer, further corroborating its mechanism of action. CoV2-0213 represents a unique and potent broad-spectrum SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing bispecific antibody (nbsAb) against the currently circulating major Omicron variants (BA.1, BA.1.1, BA.2, BA.2.12.1, BA.2.75, BA.3, and BA.4/5). CoV2-0213 is primarily human and ready for translational testing as a countermeasure against the ever-evolving pathogen.
Adoption of a learning management system among educators of advanced technological institutes in Sri Lanka
Authors: Mohamed Riyath Mohamed Ismail , Muhammed Rijah Uthuma Lebbe 
Published: August 2022

PurposeThe study investigates the factors that impact the adoption of learning management systems (LMSs) among educators for effective implementation of open and distance learning (ODL) environment in advanced technological institutes (ATIs).Design/methodology/approachThis study uses the extended technology acceptance model (TAM) and analyses data using the partial least square–based structural equation modelling approach to validate the construct and test proposed hypotheses. Data were collected through an online questionnaire from the respondents.FindingsThis study reveals that perceived self-efficacy and job relevance significantly impact perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEU). PU, PEU and service quality significantly impact attitudes of educators, which impact their behavioural intention and actual use of LMS as a chain reaction.Practical implicationsThe management should organise hands-on training sessions to improve educators' computer self-efficacy and explain the importance of the LMS and its features to offer an effective ODL environment for delivering high-quality education.Originality/valueThe previous studies focused on LMS use from the students' point of view rather than educators. This study investigates educators' LMS adoption in ATIs using the extended TAM. The findings may be helpful for management to implement an effective ODL environment that offers fully integrated distance learning and e-learning during the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic.
Distress, anxiety, boredom, and their relation to the interior spaces under COVID-19 lockdowns
Authors: Diker Berk , Demirkan Halime 
Published: August 2022

PurposeThis research is based on the idea that interior elements leave a wide variety of impressions on their occupants and that some interiors are likely to have more positive impressions than others. These impressions are especially prevalent when an individual cannot leave their homes for extended periods. The architectural elements of an interior where people are isolated can mitigate the adverse psychological effects.Design/methodology/approachThe study was conducted by surveying individuals under lockdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 140 participants completed three different scales (GAD-7, K10, FTB Scale) to measure mental health problems often experienced in isolated and confined environments. Their responses were then associated with the interior environments of the participants.FindingsStatistically significant relationships were identified between the reported interiors and the results of the psychological evaluations. The level of psychological distress was associated with Volume and Visual Variety factors. Susceptibility to generalized anxiety disorder was associated with Visual Variety and Airiness factors. Finally, free time boredom was associated with Volume, Visual Variety, and Airiness factors. The Furniture and Clutter factor did not significantly contribute to any of the psychological evaluations.Originality/valueThe study was performed in response to the severe lockdown measures taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It successfully highlighted the need for a rethinking of interior design approaches regarding the design for isolated and confined environments.
Investment and economic growth: do institutions and economic freedom matter?
Authors: Addi Haman Mahamat , Abubakar Attahir Babaji 
Published: August 2022

PurposeThis paper analyzes the effect of institutional quality and economic freedom on investment and economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).Design/methodology/approachFocusing on a panel of 27 countries, the study employed the panel fixed and random effect models to analyze data spanning from 2005 to 2018. The study also employed the Wu–Hausman test to determine if the endogeneity problem exists in the model.FindingsThe findings of the study show that individually, an improvement in economic freedom stimulates economic growth while the improvement in institutional quality is effective in spurring investment. However, the interaction effect of improvement in institutional quality and economic freedom is the stimulation of both investment and economic growth. The findings are robust to alternative model specifications.Practical implicationsThe study implies that for SSA countries to effectively achieve higher investment and economic growth outcomes, there is the need to simultaneously strengthen institutional quality and improve economic freedom. Focusing on either of the factors without the other leads to less desirable growth and investment outcomes.Originality/valueThe study examined the combined influence of institutional quality and economic freedom on investment and growth in SSA. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no study has investigated this in the context of SSA.