bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multilateral tax treaty revision to combat tax avoidance: on the merits and limits of BEPS’s multilateral instrument
Authors: Hohmann Antonia , Merlo Valeria , Riedel Nadine
Published: August 2024

Since 2015, more than 140 countries have cooperated in the OECD’s ‘Base Erosion and Profit Shifting’ (BEPS) project to combat multinational tax avoidance. Several of the key actions, most importantly measures against tax treaty shopping, require changes to double taxation treaties. The OECD designed a special instrument – the ‘multilateral instrument’ (MLI) – to allow for a swift implementation of BEPS-related tax treaty changes. In this paper, we show that MLI take-up is incomplete, and we present (partly surprising) correlates of the take-up decision and develop a simple theoretical model to rationalize the observed take-up behaviour. A key insight is that conduit countries, which are the beneficiaries of tax treaty shopping, can benefit from anti-treaty shopping laws as firms have incentives to scale-up real activity in conduit nations in order to be exempted from the new anti-treaty shopping rules. Empirical findings are consistent with these considerations: MLI adoption rates of conduit countries are high. Treaty shopping has, to date, not significantly dropped. And there is indeed indication that firms have scaled up their real economic activity in conduit nations. Overall, our findings reject that treaty shopping has been ‘killed’ as envisaged by the OECD.
The future of education in Preventive Cardiology: a statement of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology of the European Society of Cardiology
Authors: Koskinas Konstantinos C , Wilhelm Matthias , Halle Martin , Biffi Alessandro , Cavarretta Elena , Davos Constantinos H , Frederix Ines , Gaber Marwa Hemmat , Hansen Dominique , Jones Jennifer L , Malhotra Aneil , Papadakis Michael
Published: August 2024

In recent years, major advances in our understanding of risk factors implicated in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD), in available tools for early detection of CVD, and in effective interventions to prevent subclinical or clinically manifest disease, have led to an increasing appreciation of prevention as a major pillar of cardiovascular (CV) medicine. Preventive Cardiology has evolved into a dynamic sub-speciality focused on the promotion of CV health through all stages of life, and on the management of individuals at risk of developing CVD or experiencing recurrent CV events, through interdisciplinary care in different settings. As the level of knowledge, specialized skills, experience, and committed attitudes related to CV prevention has exceeded core cardiology training, the European Association of Preventive Cardiology (EAPC) has placed major emphasis on continuous education and training of physicians and allied professionals involved in CV prevention, with the aim of setting standards for practice and improving quality of care. The EAPC recognizes the need for a comprehensive educational offer across different levels of training (from core cardiology to sub-speciality to expert training) as well as the need for interdisciplinary approaches that will promote synergies among allied professionals involved in CV prevention. This statement by the EAPC aims to highlight current gaps and unmet needs and to describe the framework to help standardize, structure, and deliver comprehensive, up-to-date, interactive, and high-quality education using a combination of traditional and novel educational tools. The document aims to form the basis for ongoing refinements of the EAPC educational offer, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that new evidence in the field will translate to better CV practice and improved outcomes for our patients.
Potentially avoidable mortality among adults with intellectual disability
Authors: Thygesen Lau Caspar , Klitgaard Marie Borring , Sabers Anne , Kjellberg Jakob , Søndergaard Jens , Sørensen Jeppe , Sonne Marie , Juel Knud , Michelsen Susan Ishøy
Published: August 2024

Persons with intellectual disabilities (ID) face pronounced health disparities. The aim of this study was to describe premature mortality by causes of death and avoidable mortality among persons with ID compared to the general Danish population. This study is based on a Danish nationwide cohort of adults (aged 18–74 years) with ID (n = 57 663) and an age- and sex-matched reference cohort (n = 607 097) which was established by linkage between several registers. The cohorts were followed in the Register of Causes of Death between 2000 and 2020. Causes of death were categorized into preventable, treatable, or unavoidable deaths using the OECD/Eurostat classification and furthermore categorized into specific interventions. We compared the observed and expected number of deaths by calculating standardized mortality ratio (SMR). Among persons with ID the number of deaths was 9400 whereof 5437 (58%) were avoidable. SMR for preventable deaths, e.g. by reducing smoking and alcohol intake or by vaccination, was 2.62 (95% CI, 2.51–2.73), and SMR for treatable deaths, e.g. by earlier diagnosis and treatment, was 6.00 (5.72–6.29). Unavoidable mortality was also six-fold increased (SMR = 6.03; 5.84–6.22). Preventable deaths were higher for persons with mild ID compared to severe ID, while treatable and unavoidable mortality were highest for persons with severe ID. The study confirmed that persons with ID have an amplified risk of mortality across all categories. There is a need for competence development of social care and healthcare personnel and reasonable adjustment of health promotion programs and healthcare services for people with ID.
Selection and Gene Duplication Associated With High-Elevation Diversification in Pristimantis, the Largest Terrestrial Vertebrate Genus
Authors: Christodoulides Nicholas , Urgiles Veronica L , Guayasamin Juan M , Savage Anna E
Published: August 2024

The genus Pristimantis diversified in the tropical Andes mountains and is the most speciose genus of terrestrial vertebrates. Pristimantis are notable among frogs in that they thrive at high elevations (>2,000 m) and are direct developers without a tadpole stage. Despite their ecological significance, little is known about the genetic and physiological traits enabling their success. We conducted transcriptomic analysis on seven Pristimantis species sampled across elevations in the Ecuadorean Andes to explore three hypotheses for their success: (i) unique genes are under selection relative to all other frogs, (ii) common selection occurs across all direct developers, or (iii) common selection occurs across all high-elevation frog clades. Comparative analysis with 34 frog species revealed unique positive selection in Pristimantis genes related to aerobic respiration, hemostasis, signaling, cellular transportation of proteins and ions, and immunity. Additionally, we detected positive selection across all direct developers for genes associated with oxygenase activity and metal ion binding. While many genes under selection in Pristimantis were not positively selected in other high-elevation frog species, we identified some shared genes and pathways linked to lipid metabolism, innate immunity, and cellular redox processes. We observed more positive selection in duplicated- versus single-copy genes, while relaxed purifying selection was prevalent in single-copy genes. Notably, copy number of an innate immunity complement gene was positively correlated with Pristimantis species elevation. Our findings contribute novel insights into the genetic basis of adaptation in Pristimantis and provide a foundation for future studies on the evolutionary mechanisms leading to direct development and coping with high elevations.
Characterization of Cancer Stem Cells in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Single-cell RNA Sequencing
Authors: Li Yanguo , Lin Chen , Chu Yidian , Wei Zhengyu , Ding Qi , Gu Shanshan , Deng Hongxia , Liao Qi , Shen Zhisen
Published: August 2024

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) constitute a pivotal element within the tumor microenvironment (TME), driving the initiation and progression of cancer. However, the identification of CSCs and their underlying molecular mechanisms in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) remains a formidable challenge. Here, we employed single-cell RNA sequencing of matched primary tumor tissues, paracancerous tissues, and local lymph nodes from three LSCC patients to comprehensively characterize the CSCs in LSCC. Two distinct clusters of stem cells originating from epithelial populations were delineated and verified as CSCs and normal stem cells (NSCs), respectively. CSCs were abundant in the paracancerous tissues compared to those in the tumor tissues. CSCs showed high expression of stem cell marker genes such as PROM1, ALDH1A1, and SOX4, and increased the activity of tumor-related hypoxia, Wnt/β-catenin, and Notch signaling pathways. We then explored the intricate crosstalk between CSCs and the TME cells and identified targets within the TME that related with CSCs. We also found eight marker genes of CSCs that were correlated significantly with the prognosis of LSCC patients. Furthermore, bioinformatics analyses showed that drugs such as erlotinib, OSI-027, and ibrutinib selectively targeted the CSC-specifically expressed genes. In conclusion, our results represent the first comprehensive characterization of CSC properties in LSCC at the single-cell level.
Computational Strategies and Algorithms for Inferring Cellular Composition of Spatial Transcriptomics Data
Authors: Liu Xiuying , Ren Xianwen
Published: August 2024

Spatial transcriptomics technology has been an essential and powerful method for delineating tissue architecture at the molecular level. However, due to the limitations of the current spatial techniques, the cellular information cannot be directly measured but instead spatial spots typically varying from a diameter of 0.2 to 100 µm are characterized. Therefore, it is vital to apply computational strategies for inferring the cellular composition within each spatial spot. The main objective of this review is to summarize the most recent progresses in estimating the exact cellular proportions for each spatial spot, and to prospect the future directions of this field.
The art of tartness: the genetics of organic acid content in fresh fruits
Authors: Miao Shixue , Wei Xiaoyu , Zhu Lingcheng , Ma Baiquan , Li Mingjun
Published: August 2024

Organic acids are major determinants of fruit flavor and a primary focus of fruit crop breeding. The accumulation of organic acids is determined by their synthesis, degradation, and transport, all of which are manipulated by sophisticated genetic mechanisms. Constant exploration of the genetic basis of organic acid accumulation, especially through linkage analysis, association analysis, and evolutionary analysis, have identified numerous loci in recent decades. In this review, the genetic loci and genes responsible for malate and citrate contents in fruits are discussed from the genetic perspective. Technologies such as gene transformation and genome editing as well as efficient breeding using marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genomic selection (GS) are expected to break the bottleneck of traditional fruit crop breeding and promote fruit quality improvement.
Eosinophil Depletion as a Potential Therapeutic Strategy in Acute and Chronic Intestinal Inflammation Based on a Dextran Sulfate Sodium Colitis Model
Authors: Jacobs Inge , Deleu Sara , Cremer Jonathan , De Hertogh Gert , Vermeire Séverine , Breynaert Christine , Vanuytsel Tim , Verstockt Bram
Published: August 2024

Background

A role for eosinophils in intestinal inflammation and fibrosis in the context of inflammatory bowel disease has been suggested, yet the precise nature, whether causal or secondary remains debated. Hence, it remains unclear whether targeting eosinophils should be further explored as a treatment option in inflammatory bowel disease.

Methods

Acute and chronic dextran sulfate sodium colitis was induced in wild-type C57BL/6 mice. Eosinophils were depleted by anti-CCR3 injections before colitis induction in a chronic model and after colitis onset in an acute model in order to investigate the impact of eosinophil depletion on pre-existing colitis. Inflammation was assessed using the disease activity index, macroscopic damage, and histological disease activity score. In the chronic model, fibrosis was assessed by examining colon weight/length ratio, collagen deposition through Martius Scarlet Blue staining, hydroxyproline assay, and COL1A1 expression. Protein and gene expression were assessed using the Meso Scale Discovery platform and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

In the acute and chronic colitis model, eosinophil depletion resulted in reduced disease activity and faster recovery, as observed via the total area under the curve of the disease activity index (P = .004 and P = .02, respectively), macroscopic damage score (P = .009 and P = .08, respectively), and histological disease activity score (P = .09 and P = .002, respectively). In the acute model, the accelerated recovery was accompanied by an increase in interleukin (IL)-10 (P = .03) and a decrease in IL-4 (P = .03) and IL-6 (P = .009). Colon weight/length ratio and collagen deposition were not affected by eosinophil depletion.

Conclusions

Eosinophil depletion prevents and decreases intestinal inflammation in a preclinical dextran sulfate sodium model without affecting fibrosis. These results pave the way for exploring eosinophil depletion as a novel treatment modality in addressing intestinal inflammation.
Assessing the Value of Histology and Anatomic Segment Evaluation Among Patients Undergoing Pouchoscopy
Authors: Dave Mili , Power Sydney , Herfarth Hans H , Barnes Edward L
Published: August 2024

Background

The value of histologic assessment after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) has not been definitively determined. We evaluated the correlation between histology and endoscopic findings, as well as the proportion of patients with inflammation in areas beyond the pouch body on their initial pouchoscopy after IPAA.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study, we evaluated patients who underwent IPAA for UC between 2012 and 2020 and subsequently underwent a pouchoscopy with routine biopsies of the pouch body, pre-pouch ileum, and rectal cuff. We compared endoscopic and histologic assessments in each location using χ2 testing and Spearman correlation, as well as the development of pouchitis and Crohn’s-like disease of the pouch (CLDP) in longitudinal follow-up.

Results

Among 126 patients, the median time to pouchoscopy after IPAA was 384 days, with 82 patients (65%) having inflammation of the pouch body. Significantly more patients with pouch body inflammation had histologic inflammation compared with patients without pouch body inflammation (96% vs 22%, P < .001, r = 0.769). Additionally, 16 patients (13%) were found to have endoscopic inflammation of the pre-pouch ileum with corresponding histologic inflammation in 88%; of these, 31% later developed CLDP. In contrast, 13% of patients with no endoscopic inflammation displayed histologic inflammation, with none later developing CLDP. Forty-six percent of patients had rectal cuff inflammation (correlation with histologic inflammation r = 0.580).

Conclusions

In our evaluation, the added benefit of histology in the presence of visible endoscopic inflammation for disease activity assessment scores is unclear. The prognostic value of histologic inflammation without endoscopic inflammation warrants a longitudinal study.
Predicting trawl catches using environmental DNA
Authors: Guri Gledis , Shelton Andrew Olaf , Kelly Ryan P , Yoccoz Nigel , Johansen Torild , Præbel Kim , Hanebrekke Tanja , Ray Jessica Louise , Fall Johanna , Westgaard Jon-Ivar
Published: August 2024

Quantifying the biomass, or number of individuals, diversity, and distribution of marine species is a critical aspect of understanding and managing marine ecosystems. In recent years, there has been growing interest in using environmental DNA (eDNA) for marine ecosystem management and biodiversity assessment. However, the main challenge hindering eDNA applicability has been the inability to infer absolute species abundances from multispecies analysis (eDNA metabarcoding). In this study, we demonstrate a way forward by estimating the abundance of commercially important fish species in a Norwegian fjord using a joint Bayesian statistical model of traditional trawl-catch data and molecular data derived from eDNA. Using this model, we accurately predict out-of-sample trawl catches using eDNA alone. Moreover, our model provides empirical estimates for key processes linking marine eDNA concentration to the fish population abundance estimated from trawl observations, including trawl catchability, DNA shedding, degradation, dilution, transport, recovery rate, and isolation efficiency. These processes, including amplification efficiencies correcting for Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) bias, are species-specific and enable the translation of eDNA metabarcoding data into abundances. These findings have broad implications for the use of eDNA in marine ecosystem management and conservation efforts.
Outcomes of surgical ablation for atrial fibrillation in on- versus off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Vroomen Mindy , Franke Ulrich , Senges Jochen , Friedrich Ivar , Fischlein Theodor , Lewalter Thorsten , Ouarrak Taoufik , Niemann Bernd , Liebold Andreas , Hanke Thorsten , Doll Nicolas , Albert Marc
Published: August 2024

OBJECTIVES

A considerable number of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting surgery suffer from atrial fibrillation and should be treated concomitantly. This manuscript evaluates the impact of on-pump versus off-pump bypass grafting on the applied lesion set and rhythm outcome.

METHODS

Between January 2017 and April 2020, patients who underwent combined bypass grafting and surgical ablation for atrial fibrillation were consecutively enrolled in the German CArdioSurgEry Atrial Fibrillation registry (CASE-AF, 17 centres). Data were prospectively collected. Follow-up was planned after one year.

RESULTS

A total of 224 patients were enrolled. No differences in baseline characteristics were seen between on- and off-pump bypass grafting, especially not in type of atrial fibrillation and left atrial size. In the on-pump group (n = 171, 76%), pulmonary vein isolation and an extended left atrial lesion set were performed more often compared to off-pump bypass grafting (58% vs 26%, 33 vs 9%, respectively, P < 0.001). In off-pump bypass grafting a box isolating the atrial posterior wall was the dominant lesion (72% off-pump vs 42% on-pump, P < 0.001). Left atrial appendage management was comparable in on-pump versus off-pump bypass grafting (94% vs 91%, P = 0.37). Sinus rhythm at follow-up was confirmed in 61% in the on-pump group and in 65% in the off-pump group (P = 0.66). No differences were seen in in-hospital or follow-up complication-rates between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In coronary artery bypass grafting patients undergoing concomitant atrial fibrillation ablation, our data suggests that the technique applied for myocardial revascularization (off-pump vs on-pump) leads to differences in the ablation lesion set, but not in safety and effectiveness.
Vaccine Effectiveness Against Anal HPV Among Men Who Have Sex With Men Aged 18–45 Years Attending Sexual Health Clinics in 3 United States Cities, 2018–2023
Authors: DeSisto Carla L , Winer Rachel L , Querec Troy D , Dada Damilola , Pathela Preeti , Asbel Lenore , Lin John , Tang Jennifer , Iqbal Alfred , Meites Elissa , Unger Elizabeth R , Markowitz Lauri E
Published: August 2024

Background

We assessed human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine effectiveness (VE) against anal HPV among men who have sex with men (MSM) in 2018–2023.

Methods

Residual anal specimens from MSM without HIV aged 18–45 years were tested for HPV. We calculated adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between vaccination (≥1 dose) and quadrivalent vaccine (4vHPV)-type prevalence adjusting for city, race/ethnicity, and nonvaccine-type HPV prevalence, stratified by age group (18–26, 27–45 years). VE was calculated as (1 − aPR) × 100.

Results

Among 2802 persons aged 18–26, 4vHPV-type prevalence was lower in those vaccinated at age <18 (aPR = 0.13; 95% CI, .08–.22; VE = 87%) and those vaccinated ≥2 years before specimen collection (aPR = 0.52; 95% CI, .42–.64; VE = 48%) compared with unvaccinated persons. Among 3548 persons aged 27–45, 4vHPV-type prevalence was lower in those vaccinated at ages 18–26 (aPR = 0.68; 95% CI, .57–.82; VE = 32%) and those vaccinated ≥2 years before specimen collection (aPR = 0.66; 95% CI, .57–.77; VE = 33%) compared with unvaccinated persons. While we observed no VE in persons vaccinated at age >26 overall, 4vHPV-type prevalence was lower in the subgroup vaccinated ≥2 years before specimen collection (aPR = 0.71; 95% CI, .56–.89; VE = 29%).

Conclusions

We found high VE against anal 4vHPV-type prevalence among MSM aged 18–26 who were vaccinated at age <18. Lower VE was observed among MSM aged 27–45 who were vaccinated at age 18–26 or ≥2 years before specimen collection. While ideally vaccination should be given at younger ages, vaccination can prevent some future infections in this population.
Co-inoculations of bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi often drive additive plant growth responses
Authors: Berrios Louis , Venturini Andressa M , Ansell Tillson Bertie , Tok Esther , Johnson William , Willing Claire E , Peay Kabir G
Published: August 2024

Controlled greenhouse studies have shown the numerous ways that soil microbes can impact plant growth and development. However, natural soil communities are highly complex, and plants interact with many bacterial and fungal taxa simultaneously. Due to logistical challenges associated with manipulating more complex microbiome communities, how microbial communities impact emergent patterns of plant growth therefore remains poorly understood. For instance, do the interactions between bacteria and fungi generally yield additive (i.e. sum of their parts) or nonadditive, higher order plant growth responses? Without this information, our ability to accurately predict plant responses to microbial inoculants is weakened. To address these issues, we conducted a meta-analysis to determine the type (additive or higher-order, nonadditive interactions), frequency, direction (positive or negative), and strength that bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi (arbuscular and ectomycorrhizal) have on six phenotypic plant growth responses. Our results demonstrate that co-inoculations of bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi tend to have positive additive effects on many commonly reported plant responses. However, ectomycorrhizal plant shoot height responds positively and nonadditively to co-inoculations of bacteria and ectomycorrhizal fungi, and the strength of additive effects also differs between mycorrhizae type. These findings suggest that inferences from greenhouse studies likely scale to more complex field settings and that inoculating plants with diverse, beneficial microbes is a sound strategy to support plant growth.
Leveraging multi-site electronic health data for characterization of subtypes: a pilot study of dementia in the N3C Clinical Tenant
Authors: Sharma Suchetha , Liu Jiebei , Abramowitz Amy Caroline , Geary Carol Reynolds , Johnston Karen C , Manning Carol , Van Horn John Darrell , Zhou Andrea , Anzalone Alfred J , Loomba Johanna , Pfaff Emily , Brown Don
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To provide a foundational methodology for differentiating comorbidity patterns in subphenotypes through investigation of a multi-site dementia patient dataset.

Materials and Methods

Employing the National Clinical Cohort Collaborative Tenant Pilot (N3C Clinical) dataset, our approach integrates machine learning algorithms—logistic regression and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost)—with a diagnostic hierarchical model for nuanced classification of dementia subtypes based on comorbidities and gender. The methodology is enhanced by multi-site EHR data, implementing a hybrid sampling strategy combining 65% Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique (SMOTE), 35% Random Under-Sampling (RUS), and Tomek Links for class imbalance. The hierarchical model further refines the analysis, allowing for layered understanding of disease patterns.

Results

The study identified significant comorbidity patterns associated with diagnosis of Alzheimer's, Vascular, and Lewy Body dementia subtypes. The classification models achieved accuracies up to 69% for Alzheimer's/Vascular dementia and highlighted challenges in distinguishing Dementia with Lewy Bodies. The hierarchical model elucidates the complexity of diagnosing Dementia with Lewy Bodies and reveals the potential impact of regional clinical practices on dementia classification.

Conclusion

Our methodology underscores the importance of leveraging multi-site datasets and tailored sampling techniques for dementia research. This framework holds promise for extending to other disease subtypes, offering a pathway to more nuanced and generalizable insights into dementia and its complex interplay with comorbid conditions.

Discussion

This study underscores the critical role of multi-site data analyzes in understanding the relationship between comorbidities and disease subtypes. By utilizing diverse healthcare data, we emphasize the need to consider site-specific differences in clinical practices and patient demographics. Despite challenges like class imbalance and variability in EHR data, our findings highlight the essential contribution of multi-site data to developing accurate and generalizable models for disease classification.
Does ostracism/rejection impact self-disclosures? Examining the appeal of perceived social affordances after social threat
Authors: Grady Sara M , Eden Allison , Tamborini Ron
Published: August 2024

Two studies examine how experiencing a social need threat (ostracism and rejection) impacts subsequent preferences for self-disclosure to various digital audiences. Findings consider how contextual/situational factors like need threats may impact the appeal of two established perceived social affordances of media: personalization and privacy/visibility. Participants took part in a (bogus) social media activity to elicit feelings of inclusion/ostracization/rejection and then were asked about sharing their media preferences with various potential audiences. Results show that social need threats have no significant impact on privacy preferences but do affect preferences for sharing with some audiences and not others. Notably, ostracized and rejected participants show different patterns of preferences, suggesting these forms of social need threat may have distinct impacts on future self-disclosures. Implications for online relationship development and community building are considered in the discussion.
Mapping the Cross-Border Influence of Regional and International Reproductive Rights Cases
Authors: Mayall Katherine , Zampas Christina , Grimà Algora Rosario
Published: August 2024

International and regional human rights mechanisms are essential tools for ensuring access to justice for human rights violations and advancing measures of non-repetition, such as domestic law and policy reform. Scholarship on the impacts of these mechanisms have largely centred on the resulting domestic law and policy reform in the countries at issue in these cases and the resulting normative standards human rights bodies have established. The cross-fertilization of these cases among other international and regional human rights mechanisms and domestic courts remains an important but underexplored aspect of how such cases influence progress towards the realization of human rights. Through the lens of four landmark cases on sexual and reproductive health and rights, this article examines the influence of these cases in jurisprudence from across the globe, demonstrating how such decisions have reverberated across borders. These rippling effects of strategic litigation constitute an important impact that should be taken into account when evaluating the influence and efficacy of these mechanisms.
Translocations, rising populations, and phylogeographic consequences: genomic implications for conservation of introduced Aoudad (Ammotragus lervia) in the southwestern United States
Authors: Wright Emily A , Bradley Robert D , Manthey Joseph D
Published: August 2024

Over the last century, Texas has been inundated with exotic ungulates, with as many as 67 species represented by captive and free-ranging populations. One of the most successful species to have established free-ranging populations is the Aoudad (Ammotragus lervia). Herein, we expand on previous genetic studies in Aoudad by including new genomic profiles based on double-digest restriction site-associated DNA sequencing methods with the intent of better understanding the effects of >70 years of human-mediated translocations, population expansion, and gene flow among populations. Using a range of 4,338 to 5,529 single-nucleotide polymorphisms obtained from 73 individuals that potentially represented A. l. blainei, A. l. lervia, and A. l. sahariensis, we measured genetic patterns of diversity and connectivity between source populations from California and New Mexico and resultant aoudad populations in Texas. Principal component analyses identified phylogeographically structured populations across Texas. Further, we identified a signature of isolation by distance among Texas populations. To assess geographic regions that facilitated or blocked gene flow between populations, we used estimation of effective migration surfaces, which indicated 3 barriers to movement between populations as well as connectivity among populations in close proximity. Comparison of mtDNA haplogroups and nuclear genotypes among the 3 examined subspecies were discordant, indicating that the current subspecific taxonomic classification needs refinement. Given the vulnerable status of Aoudad in their native range of northern Africa and the exponential population growth and potential competition with native ungulates in Texas, we propose that efforts to manage non-native Aoudad should strive to maintain and preserve unique genetic units while minimizing competition and other detriments to native species in Texas. Conservation efforts are especially important given the vulnerable status of Aoudad within their native range of northern Africa.
Item response theory analysis of benefits and harms of cannabis use in cancer survivors
Authors: Jones Salene M W , Ton Mimi , Malen Rachel C , Newcomb Polly A , Heffner Jaimee L
Published: August 2024

Medical cannabis with cancer as a qualifying condition has become legalized in more states, but currently there are no standardized measures of perceived benefits and harms of cannabis use in cancer. This study surveyed a population-based sample of cancer survivors (n = 1539) with various types of cancer including breast (25%), prostate (17%), and gastrointestinal (11%) cancers. Item response theory analyses were used to evaluate the items for measuring perceived benefits and harms. Item response theory evaluates survey items by estimating the accuracy (analogous to reliability) and severity reflected by each item. Item response theory analyses showed all the items were accurate (reliable) measures of perceived benefits or harms. The perceived benefits items assessed beliefs well from low to high levels of perceived benefits. The perceived harms items assessed beliefs from moderate to high levels of perceived harms. The items can be used in future studies to standardize measurement while allowing some customization.
Patient-provider communication about the use of medical cannabis for cancer symptoms: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Turner Kea , Nguyen Oliver T , Islam Jessica Y , Rajasekhara Sahana , Martinez Yessica C , Tabriz Amir Alishahi , Gonzalez Brian D , Jim Heather S L , Egan Kathleen M
Published: August 2024

Background

There has been limited study regarding patient-provider communication about medical cannabis for cancer symptom management. To address this gap, this study assesses the determinants and prevalence of patient-provider communication about the use of medical cannabis for cancer symptoms at a National Cancer Institute–designated Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Methods

Individuals who completed cancer treatment from July 2017 to December 2019 were invited to participate in a survey regarding medical cannabis. An electronic survey was administered in English and Spanish from August to November 2021 and completed by 1592 individuals (response rate = 17.6%).

Results

About one-third (33.5%) of participants reported discussing medical cannabis for cancer symptom management with a health-care provider. Controlling for other factors, individuals with malnutrition and/or cachexia had higher odds (odds ratio [OR] = 2.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.50 to 3.53) of reporting patient-provider discussions compared with individuals without malnutrition and/or cachexia. Similarly, individuals with nausea had higher odds (OR = 1.94, 95% CI = 1.44 to 2.61) of reporting patient-provider discussions compared with individuals without nausea. A smaller percentage (15.6%) of participants reported receiving a recommendation for medical cannabis for cancer symptom management. Among individuals who reported using cannabis, a little over one-third (36.1%) reported not receiving instructions from anyone on how to use cannabis or determine how much to take.

Conclusions

Overall, our study suggests that patient-provider communication about medical cannabis for cancer symptom management is limited. As interest and use of medical cannabis continues to grow among cancer patients, there is a need to ensure patients have access to high quality patient-provider communication.
Cancer stage and consideration of cannabis use among adult cancer survivors in Southern California
Authors: Kasiri Nasim , Banegas Matthew , Nodora Jesse , Martinez Maria Elena , Strong David , Doran Neal , McDaniels-Davidson Corinne , Parada Jr Humberto
Published: August 2024

Background

The benefits of cannabis in symptom management among cancer survivors are widely acknowledged; however, patterns of cannabis use by cancer stage at diagnosis are unknown.

Methods

Here, we examined the association between cancer stage at diagnosis and consideration of cannabis use since diagnosis. We analyzed cross-sectional survey data from 954 cancer survivors, weighted to be representative of a National Cancer Institute–Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center’s patient population. We used survey-weighted multivariable logistic regression to examine the association between cancer stage at diagnosis (advanced [III/IV] versus non-advanced [I/II]) and consideration of cannabis use (yes versus no) since diagnosis.

Results

Sixty percent of the population was diagnosed with non-advanced stages of cancer, and 42% had considered using cannabis since diagnosis. The odds of consideration of cannabis use were 63% higher (odds ratio = 1.63, 95% confidence interval = 1.06 to 2.49) among cancer survivors diagnosed at stages III/IV than among those diagnosed at stages I/II.

Conclusion

Cancer stage may be a predictor of consideration of cannabis use after diagnosis.
Data quality in a survey of registered medical cannabis users with cancer: nonresponse and measurement error
Authors: Ziegenfuss Jeanette Y , Parsons Helen M , Blaes Anne H , Lindgren Bruce , Andersen Julia , Park Susan , Jewett Patricia I , Gupta Arjun , Zylla Dylan M
Published: August 2024

Cannabis use among individuals with cancer is best understood using survey self-report. As cannabis remains federally illegal, surveys could be subject to nonresponse and measurement issues impacting data quality. We surveyed individuals using medical cannabis for a cancer-related condition in the Minnesota Medical Cannabis Program (MCP). Although survey responders are older, there are no differences by race and ethnicity, gender, or receipt of reduced cannabis registry enrollment fee. Responders made a more recent purchase and more recently completed an independent symptom assessment for the registry than nonresponders, suggesting some opportunity for nonresponse error. Among responders, self-report and MCP administrative data with respect to age, race, gender, registry certification, and cannabis purchase history were similar. Responders were less likely to report receipt of Medicaid than would be expected based on registry low-income enrollment eligibility. Although attention should be paid to potential for nonresponse error, surveys are a reliable tool to ascertain cannabis behavior patterns in this population.
Ethnic differences in the patterns, sources, and reasons for cannabis use among cancer patients at an NCI-Designated Cancer Center
Authors: Vidot Denise C , Baral Amrit , Hernandez-Ortega Nicolas , Diggs Bria-Necole A , Islam Jessica Y , Camacho-Rivera Marlene , Martinez Claudia , Penedo Frank
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aims to describe patterns, sources, and reasons for cannabis use among cancer patients by ethnic group.

Methods

Data are from a cross-sectional study of 416 surveys collected via RedCap anonymously from adult cancer patients seen at a National Cancer Institute–designated comprehensive cancer center within the last 5 years. A harmonized survey was created with 11 other National Cancer Institute centers to assess cannabis use patterns, sources, and reasons for use. Sociodemographics and cancer details were also collected via self-report. Descriptive statistics by ethnic group were compared using χ2 and Fisher exact tests.

Results

Among the sample (age mean = 50.4 [15.7] years; 53% male; 8.3% lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer; 46.7% Hispanic and Latinx individuals), 69.6% reported lifetime use of cannabis, 33.7% began cannabis use after cancer diagnosis, 48.1% of those consuming cannabis did not have a prescription for cannabis, and 29.4% of cannabis users consumed daily. The frequency of cannabis use (P = .04) and reasons for cannabis use (P = .02) varied by ethnic group. Sleep and pain were the most prevalent reasons for use among the Hispanics and Latinx populations; pain, mental health management, and neuropathy were the most prevalent reasons for cannabis use among non-Hispanic White individuals.

Conclusions

Patterns and reasons for cannabis use differed among cancer patients by ethnic group in this exploratory cross-sectional study aimed to provide data for more rigorous study. Understanding these distinctions are pivotal in conducting more rigorous studies that address the unique needs of diverse populations utilizing cannabis for managing cancer-related symptoms.
A survey of patients with cancer and oncology health-care professionals about cannabis use during treatment
Authors: Lee Richard T , Kim Elyssa , Mendiratta Prateek , Farrell Megan , Finklea Shalena , Huang Lauren , Trapl Erika , Gerson Stanton , Cullen Jennifer
Published: August 2024

Background

This study characterizes patient and health-care professional perspectives regarding medical cannabis use at a National Cancer Institute–Designated Cancer Center. Data evaluated included the prevalence and patterns of and reasons for cannabis use.

Methods

Patients with cancer undergoing treatment were recruited into a cross-sectional survey as part of a national National Cancer Institute–funded effort. Participants completed a survey about cannabis use, reasons for use, and types of cannabis. A health-care professional survey was also conducted to explore perspectives regarding patients’ use of cannabis.

Results

A total of 313 patients with cancer (mean [SD] age = 60.7 [12.8] years) completed the survey (43% response rate) between 2021 and 2022. Of the respondents, 58% were female; identified as White (61%) and Black (23%); and had diverse cancer diagnoses. Nearly half of respondents (43%) had previously used cannabis, one-quarter (26%) had used cannabis since their cancer diagnosis, and almost 1 in 6 (17%) were actively using cannabis at the time of survey completion. The most common modes of ingestion were gummies (33%) and smoking (30%). The most commonly reported reasons for use were insomnia (46%), pain (41%), and mood (39%). For the 164 health-care professionals who completed the survey (25% response rate), the majority agreed that cannabis use (72%) is safe and beneficial for patients (57%). Four in 10 (39%) health-care professionals felt comfortable providing guidance to patients about cannabis use; however, only 1 in 8 (13%) felt knowledgeable about the topic of cannabis.

Conclusions

Approximately one-sixth of patients with cancer receiving treatment actively use cannabis for management of various cancer symptoms. Perceptions about cannabis use and education varied widely among health-care professionals.
Overview of cancer patient perspectives on cannabis use during treatment
Authors: Helzlsouer Kathy J , Rosenfield Sonia M , Freedman Andrew N , Ellison Gary L
Published: August 2024

Expanding legal access to medical cannabis across the United States increases availability and use of cannabis products to manage cancer-related symptoms and treatment side effects despite the lack of research-based evidence on its potential benefits and harms. To address knowledge gaps in how cancer patients access and use cannabis, their perceived risks and benefits with its use, and whether cancer patients discuss cannabis use with their healthcare providers during treatment, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) supported 12 NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers to conduct surveys, which included NCI standardized core questions on cannabis use during treatment, among their cancer patient populations. This overview highlights key results from the articles contained in the monograph, which includes a summary of the results of core questions across all centers and reports from individual or groups of cancer centers on survey results related to the sourcing of cannabis, associated cost, behavioral factors associated with cannabis use (such as smoking, drinking, or using other substances), patient-provider communication on cannabis use during treatment, ethnic variations in patterns, sources, and reasons for cannabis use as well as methodologic concerns related to survey data analysis. The results of these surveys of cannabis use after the diagnosis of cancer lay the groundwork for much-needed research to answer the questions of benefits and harms, including potential interactions with cancer treatments for cancer patients.
A multidisciplinary approach to managing severe gummy smile using 3D simulation and digital surgical guide: a case report
Authors: Viet Hoang , Thi Nhu Thao Dang , Phuoc Tran Hong , Quang Tien Nguyen
Published: August 2024

A smile that reveals >4 mm of gum tissue is called a gummy smile (GS), offering negative impacts on people’s self-confidence and aesthetic appearance. The treatment for GS should be planned according to underlying causes such as altered passive eruption of teeth, dentoalveolar extrusion, vertical maxillary excess, and short or hyperactive lip muscles. In this case report, a patient with severe GS received orthodontic and gingivoplasty treatment, aided by digital tools such as 3D simulation, smile design, and 3D printed guides. The treatment yielded remarkable and satisfactory results, without the need for extensive surgery. Our findings suggest that gingivoplasty is a minimally invasive, time- and cost-effective alternative to more extensive procedures for correcting severe gum recession.
Linking Survey and LinkedIn Data: Understanding Usage and Consent Patterns
Authors: Al Baghal Tarek , Wenz Alexander , SerÔdio Paulo , Liu Shujun , Jessop Curtis , Sloan Luke
Published: August 2024

Linking social media and survey data allows researchers to create novel metrics, track survey respondents longitudinally, and capture real-time intricate data. LinkedIn is a social networking platform with a strong emphasis on employment and business interactions which has not been explored in a survey data linkage context previously. Using a nationally representative panel survey, we explore the feasibility of linking survey and LinkedIn data. Our analysis focuses first on understanding the demographic profile of LinkedIn users in the UK, as understanding this context shows the coverage of who can be asked to consent. We then explore consent outcomes, assessing the impact of question placement and wording on participants’ willingness to link data, and identifying other factors associated with LinkedIn consent. Our findings reveal that a notable proportion of respondents have a LinkedIn account, indicating a higher usage rate compared to previous research. Employment status, education level, and income are key determinants of having a LinkedIn account. Unlike previous studies, consent placement and wording does not have a significant influence on participants’ willingness to link LinkedIn and survey data. However, social media posting frequency and possessing a university degree are associated with higher consent rates. Although LinkedIn users differ on certain demographic characteristics, the platform’s unique focus on professional networking and career-related activities presents valuable opportunities for investigating employment and economic outcomes.
Longitudinal Nonresponse Prediction with Time Series Machine Learning
Authors: Collins John , Kern Christoph
Published: August 2024

Panel surveys are an important tool for social science researchers, but nonresponse in any panel wave can significantly reduce data quality. Panel managers then attempt to identify participants who may be at risk of not participating using predictive models to target interventions before data collection through adaptive designs. Previous research has shown that these predictions can be improved by accounting for a sample member’s behavior in past waves. These past behaviors are often operationalized through rolling average variables that aggregate information over the past two, three, or all waves, such as each participant’s nonresponse rate. However, it is possible that this approach is too simple. In this paper, we evaluate models that account for more nuanced temporal dependency, namely recurrent neural networks (RNNs) and feature-, interval-, and kernel-based time series classification techniques. We compare these novel techniques’ performances to more traditional logistic regression and tree-based models in predicting future panel survey nonresponse. We apply these algorithms to predict nonresponse in the GESIS Panel, a large-scale, probability-based German longitudinal study, for surveys conducted between 2013 and 2021. Our findings show that RNNs perform similar to tree-based approaches, but the RNNs do not require the analyst to create rolling average variables. More complex feature-, interval-, and kernel-based techniques are not more effective at classifying future respondents and nonrespondents than RNNs or traditional logistic regression or tree-based methods. We find that predicting nonresponse of newly recruited participants is a more difficult task, and basic RNN models and penalized logistic regression performed best in this situation. We conclude that RNNs may be better at classifying future response propensity than traditional logistic regression and tree-based approaches when the association between time-varying characteristics and survey participation is complex but did not do so in the current analysis when a traditional rolling averages approach yielded comparable results.
Mayaro fever in Brazil from 2014 to 2024
Authors: Martins-Filho Paulo Ricardo , Carvalho Thialla Andrade , dos Santos Cliomar Alves
Published: August 2024

The Mayaro virus, an arthropod-borne virus transmitted from mosquitoes to humans, is endemic in Central and South America. From 2014 to 2024, 314 Mayaro fever cases were registered in Brazil, with high-risk clusters in Goiás, Amazonas, and Pará, and an increasing trend of cases in the Amazon region.