bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Differential gene expression analysis on workers exposed to pesticides: Genetic damage and cancer susceptibility.
Authors: Oliveira Fábio Morato , Passos Caio Fernando Oliveira Pereira , Campos Hellen Miranda , Sampaio Gabriella Leite , Hirata Leandro , Santos Wagner Gouvea dos , Neto Fermino Sanches , Villela Edlaine Faria de Moura 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
We performed aurora kinase gene expression analysis, in combinations with FISH and micronucleus test, in buccal mucosa cells isolated from agricultural workers to better understand the dynamics of genomic instability in these group of professionals. Two out of a total of 97 agricultural workers who consented to participate in the study (39 men and 58 women) reported a history of cancer based on previously applied questionnaire. The participants were 28.4 years in average and were categorized into three distinct groups based on their habits. as the “not exposed” group included 24 samples analyzed. The group classified as “indirectly exposed” consisted of 21 samples and those classified as “directly exposed” regarding their activities involved in pesticides preparation/application included 52 samples. Our results showed significant differences in the expression of AURKA and AURKB, among the groups (p < 0,0001). The differences found were also confirmed FISH analysis, evidencing the amplification of the studied genes. To support our data, we also performed micronucleus analysis and found significant differences when comparing the three distinct groups of participants, even if some individuals not directly exposed to pesticides showed cells abnormalities. The results suggest possible ongoing DNA damage, which on a temporal scale could promote genomic instability, and ultimately, tumor development. We believe that biomonitoring strategies, including the analysis of the expression levels of the AURKA and AURKB genes may provide important insights into the evolution of genomic instability in the cells of agricultural workers exposed to pesticides.
Assessing Readiness for Teaching and Learning Using Icts in Zimbabwean Secondary Schools in Gweru Distrct, Zimbabwe
Authors: Kangara Colletor Tendeukai Chipfumbu , Gocha Munyaradzi , Tsokota Theo , Marovah Tendayi 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
The purpose of this research paper is to evaluate Zimbabwe’s readiness to integrate ICTs in teaching and learning at secondary school level. Drawing on Suhail (2014) E-readiness Assessment Model for low bandwidth environment, this research paper evaluates Zimbabwe’s readiness to integrate ICTs in secondary schools. A qualitative interpretative study employing questionnaires and semi structured interviews was used for this research. The target population was fourteen secondary schools in Gweru district focusing on school heads (n = 14) and teachers (n = 213) as participants. The sample was derived from six schools where six school heads (n = 6) and twenty-nine teachers (n = 29) were purposively selected. Research findings revealed that a range of ICTs which include mobile devices, general software and desktop computers were available in schools. However, few schools were connected to the internet and most schools did not have smart boards, printers, photocopiers and multimedia projectors. No school had facilities for student’s email accounts while teachers email accounts were mostly unavailable in schools. Teachers lack computer skills qualifications though they are expected to use computers and to teach using computers. The research provides empirically grounded insights on how ICT is being integrated in Zimbabwean secondary schools. The research contributes to the body of knowledge in the field of ICT readiness in developing countries settings such as Zimbabwe. Consequently, insights gained from this research can assist in the design and development of strategies, interventions as well as policies to guide the integration of ICT in schools
Process information transferring for cutting paths in laser manufacturing
Authors: Hu Qirui , Lin Zhiwei , Liu Jihui , Fu Jianzhong 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
In laser manufacturing, the cutting parameters, such as laser power, cutting speed, assist gas pressure and stand off distance, have a great influence on the quality of the machined parts. To ensure the quality of the machined part, the process information (cutting parameters) need to be manually assigned and adjusted according to the different geometry characters of the part edges, like are and line segment. The part contours are then used for generating the laser cutting paths, leaving the process information behand. Quickly and accurately transferring the process information to the corresponding cutting paths is not an easy task. In this paper, an algorithm is proposed for this task. The proposed algorithm passes information by the points in the cutting paths. First, all part edges containing process information are offset to generate closed contours. Then, whether the points in the cutting paths are included in the closed contours are judged and marked. Finally, the information as NC codes through the adjacent points in the cutting paths is outputted. To simplify the computation work, a fast approach is also proposed to determine whether the point cloud is contained in a closed contour. The feasibility and computational efficiency of the proposed algorithms are verified by examples, and the actual cutting comparison verifies the superiority of the proposed algorithm by cutting details of machined parts.
BET inhibitor blocks the oncogenic function of nucleophosmin 1 in castration-resistant prostate cancer by interfering with the c-Myc signaling pathway
Authors: Hong zhe , Xu Chengdang , Wang Xinan , Jiang Huiyang , Ma Junjie , Wang Lichen , Chen Xi , Ye Liefu , Wu Denglong 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background: Nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1) is a multifunctional protein that promotes tumor progression in some solid tumors and has also been reported to be capable of predicting poor prognosis of prostate cancer (PCa). However, whether and how NPM1 exerts such malignant potentials in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) remain elusive. Methods: The effects of NPM1 on PCa and CRPC and the intervention of BET inhibitors were investigated by detecting the proliferation and invasion of PCa and CRPC cells in vitro using MTS, transwell and colony formation assays, and the tumor growth in castrated NOD/SCID mice. Expression levels of related genes involved in signaling pathways were examined by western blot and qRT-PCR assays in vitro, and immunohistochemical staining analysis in patient PCa specimens. The interaction between NPM1 and bromodomain-containing protein 4 (BRD4) was determined by coimmunoprecipitation assays.Results: we showed that NPM1 was overexpressed in PCa and CRPC cells and tissues and that the dysregulation of NPM1 promoted PCa and CRPC cell proliferation and invasion. We also demonstrated that NPM1 transcriptionally upregulated c-Myc expression in CRPC cells. Furthermore, we detected a positive correlation between NPM1 and c-Myc expressions in patient PCa specimens. Importantly, the NPM1-upregulated c-My expression was diminished by blockade of BRD4 in CRPC cells, and treatment with bromodomain and extra-terminal domain (BET) inhibitor JQ1 combined with NPM1 inhibition suppressed the malignant progression of CRPC in vitro and in vivo.Conclusion: These results indicate a novel mechanism by which NPM1 promotes CRPC progression through the c-Myc-mediated signaling pathway via BRD4 and that NPM1 may be a previously unrecognized PCa driver gene that could be a potential target for PCa and CRPC treatment, and that BET inhibitors combined with NPM1 inhibition may also be an alternative strategy for CRPC treatment.
Clinical prognosis of lung cancer in patients with moderate chronic kidney disease Running title: lung cancer in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Kim Taehee , Kim Sang Hyuk , Choi Hayoung , Shin Tae Rim , Kim Hwan Il , Jang Seung Hun , Hong Ji Young , Lee Myung Goo , Chung Soojie , Hyun In Gyu , Sim Yun Su 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Backgrounds: The clinical outcomes of patients with lung cancer coexisting chronic kidney disease (CKD) reported have been conflicting. In addition, there is insufficient evidence for treatment and prognosis of lung cancer according to renal function in patients with CKD. We evaluate clinical course and prognostic factors of lung cancer according to the renal function of moderate CKD patients. Methods: A retrospective, multicenter study of lung cancer patients with moderate CKD was performed. Moderate CKD was defined as and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. CKD was classified as stage 3 (eGFR of 30–60 mL/min/1.73 m2), stage 4 (eGFR of 15–30 mL/min/1.73 m2), and stage 5 (eGFR of <15 mL/min/1.73 m2 or need of dialysis). The cumulative mortality was calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method, and the risk factors were explored by the Cox proportional hazards model.Results: Among the lung cancer patients with moderate CKD (n = 181), the incidence of mortality was 83%. Median overall survival (OS) was 10.2 (3.3–28.3) months for all CKD patients, 11.1 (4.2–31.3) months for stage 3 CKD patients, 6.0 (1.8–16.3) months for stage 4 CKD patients, and 4.7 (2.1–40.1) months for stage 5 CKD patients (p = 0.060). Cox regression analysis revealed that age ≥75 years (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.658; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.148–2.394) and stage IV NSCLC (adjusted HR 3.198; 95% CI 2.136–4.788) were associated with increased mortality risk, whereas adenocarcinoma (adjusted HR 0.513; 95% CI 0.325–0.810) and stage 3 CKD (adjusted HR 0.566; 95% CI 0.383–0.837) were associated with decreased mortality risk.Conclusions: Mortality risk of patients with lung cancer was lower in stage 3 CKD compared stage 4 or 5 CKD.
Robot-assisted Partial Nephrectomy: Can Retroperitoneal Approach Suit for Renal Tumors of All Locations？—A Large Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lv Xiangjun , Jia Zhuo , Ao Liyan , Ren Changhao , Wu Yangyang , Xu Yunlai , Chen Ke , Gao Yu , Wang Baojun , Ma Xin , Zhang Xu 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background: This study aimed to explore the appropriate location of renal tumors for retroperitoneal approach. Material/Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 1040 patients with renal tumor who were treated at our institution and had underwent retroperitoneal robotic assisted-laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. Clinical features and postoperative outcomes were evaluated. Results: Patients with incomplete data were excluded, and we included 896 patients in total. The median tumor size was 3.0 (range: 0.8–10.0) cm. The median RENAL Nephrometry Score was 7 (range: 4–11), and the median PADUA Nephrometry Score was 8 (range: 6–14). The median surgical time was 120 min, and the median warm ischemia time was 18 min. The median estimated blood loss was 50 ml. The follow-up time was 20.2 (range: 12–69) months. The mean change of eGFR 1 year after operation was 14.6%±19.0% compared with preoperative eGFR. When compared the tumor at different locations, as superior or inferior pole, anterior of posterior face of kidney, there were no significant differences of intra- and post-operative outcomes such as surgical time, warm ischemia time, estimated blood loss, removal time of drainage tube and catheter, postoperative feeding time and hospital stay, and changes of eGFR one year after surgery. We also compared tumors at special locations as endophytic or exophytic, anterior of posterior hilus of kidney, there were no significant differences in surgical time, warm ischemia time, estimated blood loss and changes of eGFR. There was no significant difference in intraoperative features and postoperative outcomes when tumor larger than 4 cm was located at different positions of kidney. Though the surgical time was longer when BMI ≥28 (132.6 min vs. 122.5 min, p=0.004), no significant differences were observed in warm ischemia time, estimated blood loss, changes in eGFR. Twenty-seven patients (3.0%) had tumor progression, including 8 (0.9%) recurrence, 19 (2.1%) metastasis, and 9 (1.0%) death. Conclusions: Retroperitoneal approach for RAPN has confirmed acceptable intra- and postoperative outcomes and suits for renal tumors of all different locations. Large tumor size and obesity are not contraindications for rRAPN.
Increased plasma lipids in triple-negative breast cancer and impairment in HDL functionality in advanced stages of tumors
Authors: Sawada Maria Isabela Bloise Alves Caldas , Santana Monique F. Mello , Reis Mozania , Assis Sayonara , Pereira Lucas Alves , Santos Daniele Ribeiro , Nunes Valéria Sutti , Correa-Giannella Maria Lucia Cardillo , Gebrim Luiz Henrique , Passarelli Marisa 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background: the association between plasma lipids and breast cancer (BC) has been extensively explored although results are still conflicting especially regarding the relationship with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLc) levels. HDL mediates cholesterol and oxysterol removal from cells limiting sterols necessary for tumor growth, inflammation, and metastasis and this may not be reflected by measuring HDLc. Methods: we addressed recently diagnosed, treatment-naïve BC women (n=163), classified according to molecular types of tumors and clinical stages of the disease, in comparison to control women (CTR; n=150) regarding plasma lipids and lipoproteins, HDL functionality and composition in lipids, oxysterols and apo A-I. HDL was isolated by plasma discontinuous density gradient ultracentrifugation. Lipids (total cholesterol, TC; triglycerides, TG; and phospholipids, PL) were determined by enzymatic assays, apo A-I by immunoturbidimetry, and oxysterols (27, 25, and 24-hydroxycholesterol), by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. HDL-mediated cell cholesterol removal was determined in macrophages previously overloaded with cholesterol and 14C-cholesterol. Results: lipid profile was similar between CTR and BC groups after adjustment per age. In the BC group, lower concentrations of TC (84%), TG (93%), PL (89%), and 27-hydroxicholesterol (61%) were observed in HDL, although the lipoprotein ability in removing cell cholesterol was similar to HDL from CRT. Triple-negative (TN) BC cases presented higher levels of TC, TG, apoB, and non-HDLc when compared to other molecular types. Impaired HDL functionality was observed in more advanced BC cases (stages III and IV), as cholesterol efflux was around 28% lower as compared to stages I and II. Conclusios: the altered lipid profile in TN cases may contribute to channeling lipids to tumor development in a hystotype with a more aggressive clinical history. Moreover, findings reinforce the dissociation between plasma levels of HDLc and HDL functionality in determining BC outcomes.
Study on the effect of mechanical shearing on the microstructure and performance of lithium complex grease
Authors: Hu Jintao , Han Yiming , Zhang Enhui , Li Weimin , Wang Jing , Wang Xiaobo 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
This paper focuses on the effect of mechanical shearing on the structure and properties of complex lithium greases with or without zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate (ZDDP). The base grease and grease with additives were first mechanically sheared by a roller shear tester, and then the tribological properties, rheological properties, micro-structure changes and noise properties of the samples were tested by a four-ball tester, rheometer, field emission scanning electron microscope and Bequiet+ noise tester, respectively. The results indicated that mechanical shear significantly reduced the mechanical stability and colloidal stability of the lithium grease, and the tribological properties of the two greases (with or without ZDDP) showed opposite trends. The rheological performance test showed that the structural strength of the grease was significantly reduced and the micro-structure became loose after shearing. In addition, the grease containing ZDDP showed a slight decrease in noise compared to the base grease due to the favorable reduction of the intermediate frequency of the complex lithium grease. This study provided theoretical guidance for the precise design and performance optimization of low noise greases.
Evaluation of outcome of chemotherapy for breast cancer patients older than 70 years: A SEER-based study
Authors: Pu Shengyu , Xie Peiling , Chen Heyan , Li Yijun , He Jianjun , Zhang Huimin 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background: With the aging of the population, the number of elderly breast cancer cases has increased. However, there is a lack of effective randomized clinical trial data to support whether elderly patients should receive chemotherapy. Our goal was to observe the relationship between chemotherapy and breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS) in elderly breast cancer patients and to identify those who could benefit from chemotherapy.Methods: We collected the data of patients who were diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma and older than 70 in the SEER database from 1995 to 2016. The independent predictors of BCSS were identified by Cox univariate and multivariate regression. Propensity score matching (PSM) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) were performed to eliminate confounding factors.Results: A total of 142,537 elderly breast cancer patients were collected from the SEER database, including 21,782 patients in the chemotherapy group and 120,755 patients in the non-chemotherapy group. We identified the same potential predictors of BCSS by Cox regression analysis after PSM and IPTW, and a nomogram for predicting 3-year, 5-year and 10-year BCSS was constructed. The nomogram has been verified to have good predictive performance. According to the risk stratification of model predictive scores, patients in the high-risk group achieved the greatest improvement in BCSS after receiving chemotherapy.Conclusions: Our study suggests that women older than 70 years with larger tumors, higher grade, positive nodes, negative hormone receptor and inactive local therapy gain prognostic benefits from chemotherapy, but for those with low- and median-risk, conventional chemotherapy should be administered cautiously.
Growth Characteristics and Phycobiliprotein Production of Indigenous Cyanobacteria from Malaysia
Authors: Tan Hui Teng , Yusoff Fatimah , Khaw Yam Sim , Nazarudin Muhammad Farhan , Mazli Nur Amira Izyan Noor , Ahmad Siti Aqlima , Shaharuddin Noor Azmi , Toda Tatsuki 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Some cyanobacteria species have a high capacity for accumulating phycobiliprotein contents in their cells. However, there is a lack of information on the screening of tropical freshwater cyanobacteria, particularly phycobiliproteins. In addition, it is unclear which cellular factor of cyanobacteria (morphological and/or growth) could affect phycobiliproteins production. Hence, the objectives of this study were to isolate and screen the Malaysian indigenous cyanobacteria for the desired growth, biomass and pigment contents of the isolated cyanobacteria and determine the main internal factor that contributed to the variation of phycobiliproteins. The surface/volume (S/V) ratio, specific growth rate, biomass productivity and pigment contents were analysed. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) were applied to distinguish the factor responsible for phycobiliprotein variations in cyanobacteria. Synechocystis sp. demonstrated significantly higher (P < 0.05) specific growth rates and biomass productivity than the other cyanobacteria. For the phycobiliprotein contents, Arthrospira sp., Pseudanabaena sp., and Synechococcus elongatus showed significantly higher (P < 0.05) amounts of phycocyanin (PC), phycoerythrin (PE) and allophycocyanin (APC), respectively, than the other cyanobacteria. The present study suggested that Arthrospira sp., Pseudanabaena sp. and Synechococcus elongatus are suitable candidates for commercial production of PC, PE and APC sources, respectively. Moreover, the current findings showed that the phycobiliprotein contents of cyanobacteria were strain-dependent. Further analyses are required to examine the toxicity of these cyanobacteria to ensure these pigments are safe to be consumed or utilised.
Development of algorithms to identify individuals with Neurofibromatosis type 1 within administrative data and electronic medical records in Ontario, Canada.
Authors: Barnett Carolina , Candido Elisa , Chen Branson , Pequeno Priscila , Parkin Patricia , Tu Karen 
Published: May 2022

Abstract
Background: There is limited population-based data on Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) in North America. We aimed to develop and validate algorithms using administrative health data and electronic medical records (EMRs) to identify individuals with NF1 in Ontario, Canada. Methods: We conducted an electronic free-text search of 15 commonly-used terms related to NF1 in the Electronic Medical Records Primary Care Database. Records were reviewed by two trained abstractors who classified them as confirmed, possible, and not NF1. An investigator with clinical expertise performed final NF1 classification. Patients were classified as confirmed if there was a documented diagnosis, meeting NIH criteria. Patients were classified as possible if 1) NF1 was recorded in the cumulative patient profile, but no clinical information to support the diagnosis; 2) only one criterion for diagnosis (e.g. child of confirmed case) but no further data to confirm or rule out. We tested different combinations of outpatient and inpatient billing codes, and applied a free-text search algorithm to identify NF1 cases in administrative data and EMRs, respectively.Results: Of 273,440 eligible patients, 2,058 had one or more NF1 terms in their medical records. The terms “NF”, “café-au-lait”, or “sheath tumour” were constrained to appear in combination with another NF1 term. This resulted in 837 patients: 37 with possible and 71 with confirmed NF1. The population prevalence ranged from 1 in 3851 (confirmed NF1) to 1 in 2532 (possible and confirmed NF1). Billing code algorithms had poor performance, with overall low PPV (highest being 71%). The accuracy of the free-text EMR algorithm in identifying patients with NF1 was: sensitivity 85% (95% CI:74-92%), specificity 100% (95% CI:100-100%), positive predictive value 80% (95% CI:69-88%), negative predictive value 100% (95% CI:100-100%), and false positive rate 20% (95% CI:11-33%). Of false positives, 53% were possible NF1. Conclusions: A free-text search algorithm within the EMR had high sensitivity, specificity and predictive values. Algorithms using billing codes had poor performance, likely due to the lack of NF-specific codes for outpatient visits. While NF1 ICD-9 and 10 codes are used for hospital admissions, only ~30% of confirmed NF1 cases had a hospitalization associated with an NF1 code.