bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring edge effects on pollination syndromes in dry forests: implications for conservation strategies
Authors: Baronio Gudryan J , Barreto Laís Leite , Cardoso João Custódio Fernandes , Silva Thaís Virginia Fidelis e , Leite Ana Virgínia de Lima , Santos André Maurício Melo , Castro Cibele Cardoso
Published: June 2024

Dry forests face significant threats due to human activities, including habitat fragmentation, leading to edge effects that alter microclimatic conditions and species composition. This study evaluates the impact of edge effects on pollination syndromes in a Caatinga dry forest in Brazil. Fieldwork conducted between 2012 and 2013 recorded woody plant species and their pollinators, along with floral traits. Results reveal melittophily as the dominant syndrome, with significant differences in floral traits across syndromes, notably flower colour and shape. Distance from the forest edge did not significantly affect pollinator syndrome richness or abundance, except for a negative relationship with generalist species richness and total abundance. This underscores the importance of considering edge proximity in conservation strategies. The study emphasizes the critical need to incorporate edge dynamics into dry forest management to safeguard ecological functions and services, particularly in maintaining plant–pollinator interactions. Understanding how edge effects influence pollination syndromes is vital for effective conservation, highlighting the importance of continued research into floral responses to edge effects for protecting vulnerable species and habitats in dry forests.
Leveraging the adolescent brain cognitive development study to improve behavioral prediction from neuroimaging in smaller replication samples
Authors: Makowski Carolina , Brown Timothy T , Zhao Weiqi , Hagler Jr Donald J , Parekh Pravesh , Garavan Hugh , Nichols Thomas E , Jernigan Terry L , Dale Anders M
Published: June 2024

Neuroimaging is a popular method to map brain structural and functional patterns to complex human traits. Recently published observations cast doubt upon these prospects, particularly for prediction of cognitive traits from structural and resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We leverage baseline data from thousands of children in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive DevelopmentSM Study to inform the replication sample size required with univariate and multivariate methods across different imaging modalities to detect reproducible brain-behavior associations. We demonstrate that by applying multivariate methods to high-dimensional brain imaging data, we can capture lower dimensional patterns of structural and functional brain architecture that correlate robustly with cognitive phenotypes and are reproducible with only 41 individuals in the replication sample for working memory-related functional MRI, and ~ 100 subjects for structural and resting state MRI. Even with 100 random re-samplings of 100 subjects in discovery, prediction can be adequately powered with 66 subjects in replication for multivariate prediction of cognition with working memory task functional MRI. These results point to an important role for neuroimaging in translational neurodevelopmental research and showcase how findings in large samples can inform reproducible brain-behavior associations in small sample sizes that are at the heart of many research programs and grants.
Hepatitis B–CpG Vaccine Series for Healthcare Workers Who Are Hepatitis B Vaccine Nonresponders
Authors: Russ Rachel K , Vandehei Haley M , Golovkina Maria I , Mogallapalli Harshitha , Caldera Freddy , Hayney Mary S
Published: June 2024

This prospective study enrolled healthcare workers (HCWs) who were nonresponders following at least 5 doses of aluminum-adjuvanted hepatitis B vaccine who received the 2-dose Heplisav-B (HepB-CpG) (Dynavax Technologies Corporation, Emeryville, CA) series. After 2 doses of HepB-CpG, 43/47 (91%) participants, and with 1 dose, 41/49 (84%) responded. HepB-CpG could be the preferred vaccine in HCW nonresponders.

Clinical Trials Registration. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04456504.
AI-powered automated item generation for language testing
Authors: Shin Dongkwang , Lee Jang Ho
Published: June 2024

Although automated item generation has gained a considerable amount of attention in a variety of fields, it is still a relatively new technology in ELT contexts. Therefore, the present article aims to provide an accessible introduction to this powerful resource for language teachers based on a review of the available research. Particularly, it will give a brief introduction to different types of automated item generation approaches, provide a summary of previous ELT studies on this technology, and introduce three different AI-powered tools, along with practical tips for ELT practitioners. We conclude by calling for more empirical research on automated item generation from the ELT community and encouraging language teachers to take an interest in this technology themselves.
Characterization and distribution of a 14-Mb chromosomal inversion in native populations of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Hale Matthew C , Pearse Devon E , Campbell Matthew A
Published: June 2024

Multiple studies in a range of taxa have found links between structural variants and the development of ecologically important traits. Such variants are becoming easier to find due, in large part, to the increase in the amount of genome-wide sequence data in nonmodel organisms. The salmonids (salmon, trout, and charr) are a taxonomic group with abundant genome-wide datasets due to their importance in aquaculture, fisheries, and variation in multiple ecologically important life-history traits. Previous research on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) has documented a large pericentric (∼55 Mb) chromosomal inversion (CI) on chromosome 5 (Omy05) and a second smaller (∼14 Mb) chromosome inversion on Omy20. While the Omy05 inversion appears to be associated with multiple adaptive traits, the inversion on Omy20 has received far less attention. In this study, we re-analyze RAD-seq and amplicon data from several populations of rainbow trout (O. mykiss) to better document the structure and geographic distribution of variation in the Omy20 CI. Moreover, we utilize phylogenomic techniques to characterize both the age- and the protein-coding gene content of the Omy20 CI. We find that the age of the Omy20 inversion dates to the early stages of O. mykiss speciation and predates the Omy05 inversion by ∼450,000 years. The 2 CIs differ further in terms of the frequency of the homokaryotypes. While both forms of the Omy05 CI are found across the eastern Pacific, the ancestral version of the Omy20 CI is restricted to the southern portion of the species range in California. Furthermore, the Omy20 inverted haplotype is comparable in genetic diversity to the ancestral form, whereas derived CIs typically show substantially reduced genetic diversity. These data contribute to our understanding of the age and distribution of a large CI in rainbow trout and provide a framework for researchers looking to document CIs in other nonmodel species.
The expression of congenital Shoc2 variants induces AKT-dependent crosstalk activation of the ERK1/2 pathway
Authors: Wilson Patricia G , Abdelmoti Lina , Gao Tianyan , Galperin Emilia
Published: June 2024

The Shoc2 scaffold protein is crucial in transmitting signals within the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR)-mediated Extracellular signal-Regulated Kinase (ERK1/2) pathway. While the significance of Shoc2 in this pathway is well-established, the precise mechanisms through which Shoc2 governs signal transmission remain to be fully elucidated. Hereditary variants in Shoc2 are responsible for Noonan Syndrome with Loose anagen Hair (NSLH). However, due to the absence of known enzymatic activity in Shoc2, directly assessing how these variants affect its function is challenging. ERK1/2 phosphorylation is used as a primary parameter of Shoc2 function, but the impact of Shoc2 mutants on the pathway activation is unclear. This study investigates how the NSLH-associated Shoc2 variants influence EGFR signals in the context of the ERK1/2 and AKT downstream signaling pathways. We show that when the ERK1/2 pathway is a primary signaling pathway activated downstream of EGFR, Shoc2 variants cannot upregulate ERK1/2 phosphorylation to the level of the WT Shoc2. Yet, when the AKT and ERK1/2 pathways were activated, in cells expressing Shoc2 variants, ERK1/2 phosphorylation was higher than in cells expressing WT Shoc2. In cells expressing the Shoc2 NSLH mutants, we found that the AKT signaling pathway triggers the PAK activation, followed by phosphorylation of Raf-1/MEK1/2 and activation of the ERK1/2 signaling axis. Hence, our studies reveal a previously unrecognized feedback regulation downstream of the EGFR and provide additional evidence for the role of Shoc2 as a “gatekeeper” in controlling the selection of downstream effectors within the EGFR signaling network.
Foreign travellers in Milan and their interests
Authors: Squizzato Alessandra , Tunesi Lorenzo
Published: June 2024

This article reviews the presence and movements of foreign travellers in Milan in the mid-nineteenth century, focusing on the cultural context of art collecting. Perceptions of the Milan region abroad are examined through a number of guides and illustrated digests aimed at foreign visitors and produced by local publishers such as Giovanni Pietro Giegler, Ferdinando Artaria, Bettalli and Vallardi. Along with the main landmarks, the importance of private palaces and their art galleries has also been researched. Among them are locations associated with some established names (the Archinto, Litta, Borromeo and Trivulzio families), as well as new entries such as the Poldi Pezzoli family. The sections of guidebooks devoted to the city’s antiquarian market were particularly significant within these publications, a study of which helps us to understand the unexpected dynamics of some emerging antique dealers’ careers. Emphasis is placed on case-studies, notably the important and remarkable example of Alfonso Reichmann, whose family owned a famous hotel at Porta Romana. Reichmann successfully engaged in the domestic and international art trade, dealing with foreign museums as well as with Italian institutions and collectors, including Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli.
Divergent ecological selection maintains species boundaries despite gene flow in a rare endemic tree, Quercus acerifolia (maple-leaf oak)
Authors: Wu Yingtong , Linan Alexander G , Hoban Sean , Hipp Andrew L , Ricklefs Robert E
Published: June 2024

Strong gene flow from outcrossing relatives tends to blur species boundaries, while divergent ecological selection can counteract gene flow. To better understand how these two forces affect the maintenance of species boundaries, we focused on a species complex including a rare species, maple-leaf oak (Quercus acerifolia), which is found in only four disjunct ridges in Arkansas. Its limited range and geographic proximity to co-occurring close relatives create the possibility for genetic swamping. In this study, we gathered genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using restriction-site-associated DNA sequencing (RADseq) from 190 samples of Q. acerifolia and three of its close relatives, Q. shumardii, Q. buckleyi, and Q. rubra. We found that Q. shumardii and Q. acerifolia are reciprocally monophyletic with low support, suggesting incomplete lineage sorting, introgression between Q. shumardii and Q. acerifolia, or both. Analyses that model allele distributions demonstrate that admixture contributes strongly to this pattern. Populations of Q. acerifolia experience gene flow from Q. shumardii and Q. rubra, but we found evidence that divergent selection is likely maintaining species boundaries: 1) ex situ collections of Q. acerifolia have a higher proportion of hybrids compared to the mature trees of the wild populations, suggesting ecological selection against hybrids at the seed/seedling stage; 2) ecological traits co-vary with genomic composition; and 3) Q. acerifolia shows genetic differentiation at loci hypothesized to influence tolerance of radiation, drought, and high temperature. Our findings strongly suggest that in maple-leaf oak, selection results in higher divergence at regions of the genome despite gene flow from close relatives.
Increased allergic inflammation and decreased lung insulin sensitivity in offspring of obese allergic mothers
Authors: Damron Christopher Luke , Bloodworth Jeffrey C , Hoji Aki , Casasnovas Jose , Kua Kok Lim , Cook-Mills Joan M
Published: June 2024

Epidemiological studies demonstrate that maternal obesity and maternal allergy are major risk factors for asthma in offspring. However, the impact of maternal allergy and obesity on offspring lung insulin signaling and allergen responsiveness is not known. To evaluate this, allergic and nonallergic female mice were fed a high-fat diet or low-fat diet from 7 wk before pregnancy until weaning. Neonatal pups were allergen-sensitized and allergen-challenged and then were assessed for obesity, insulin signaling, and allergic inflammation. Compared with pups of nonobese nonallergic mothers, allergen-challenged pups of obese nonallergic mothers, nonobese allergic mothers, and obese allergic mothers had bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) eosinophilia, with the pups of obese allergic mothers having the highest BAL eosinophilia. These pups also had lower insulin-induced lung AKT phosphorylation, indicating a decrease in lung parenchymal insulin sensitivity. In cross-fostering experiments, allergen-challenged pups exposed to both pre- and postnatal obese allergic mothers had the highest level of BAL eosinophilia. Maternal obesity or allergy increased offspring serum allergen-specific IgE and interleukin-5 that was highest when the mother was both obese and allergic. Also, allergen-challenged pups exposed to both pre- and postnatal obese allergic mothers had the highest level of interleukin-5. In summary, offspring born to obese allergic mothers have decreased lung insulin sensitivity and increased lung allergic inflammation. Interestingly, our data also demonstrate that there is both a pregnancy and postpregnancy aspect of maternal allergy and obesity that enhances allergen responsiveness in offspring.
(020) USE AND PERCEIVED IMPACT OF CANNABIS ON ORGASM IN POST MENOPAUSE WOMEN
Authors: Streicher L
Published: June 2024

Introduction

55% of post-menopause women experience orgasmic dysfunction as a result of aging, vasculopathy, neuropathy, medications, and medical comorbidities. Orgasmic dysfunction can also be a downstream consequence of dyspareunia, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, and symptoms of menopause such as vasomotor symptoms and insomnia. There are no FDA-approved treatments for the treatment of FOD. At least one in four post-menopause women use cannabis, however, the frequency, route of consumption, and perceived efficacy of cannabis to facilitate orgasm in this population has not been studied.

Objective

To determine the frequency, route of consumption, and perceived efficacy use of cannabis to facilitate orgasm in a peri and post-menopause population.

Methods

Women self-described as peri- or post-menopause, who currently or had recently used cannabis for relief of specific menopause symptoms, were recruited via social media and invited to complete an online survey. For each symptom, respondents were asked about the route(s) of consumption, and the perception of efficacy.

Results

451 women responded to the survey. Of those women, 85 (29.9%) stated they used cannabis specifically to help with orgasm. Overall, 70% stated “it helped them orgasm”, 24.4% stated, “It helped a little” and 5.6% stated, “It did not help”. Smoke or Vape: 52.8% Yes, it helped- 78.7% It helped a little-17% It did not help-4.3% Edibles: 37.1% Yes, it helped-61%% It helped a little-33% It did not help- 6.1 % Local application to genitals: 6.7% Yes, it helped 66.7% It helped a little 33.3% It did not help- 0% Tinctures or lozenges: 3.4% Yes, it helped-66.7% It helped a little -33% It did not help- 0%

Conclusions

Theoretically, cannabis may facilitate post-menopause orgasm due to its known vasodilation and anti-inflammatory properties. Studying the efficacy of cannabis for the relief of specific symptoms is challenging since pharmacology is complex and dictated by variables such as route of consumption, product strain, genetics, sex, age, medical co-morbidities, medications, and concomitant use of estrogen. In addition, one cannot count on the same level of consistency with individual products as with a commercial pharmaceutical. The perception of relief of symptoms is high, however, the impact of a placebo effect and the actual efficacy of individual practices cannot be determined given the above variables. The majority of women in the survey used edibles or inhalation, which may not be the most efficacious route of consumption to facilitate clitoral sensitivity. A larger population of women using direct application of cannabis to the clitoris would be useful. This study confirms the wide use of cannabis use in the menopause population specifically to facilitate orgasm and is useful in not only understanding current practices but will also inform the design of future studies.

Disclosure

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Sermonix.
Mediator complex: an important regulator of root system architecture
Authors: Agrawal Rekha , Thakur Pallabi , Singh Amrita , Panchal Poonam , Thakur Jitendra Kumar
Published: June 2024

Mediator, a multiprotein complex, is an important component of the transcription machinery. In plants, the latest studies have established that it functions as a signal processor that conveys transcriptional signals from transcription factors to RNA polymerase II. Mediator has been found to be involved in different developmental and stress-adaptation conditions, ranging from embryo, root, and shoot development to flowering and senescence, and also in responses to different biotic and abiotic stresses. In the last decade, significant progress has been made in understanding the role of Mediator subunits in root development. They have been shown to transcriptionally regulate development of almost all the components of the root system architecture—primary root, lateral roots, and root hairs. They also have a role in nutrient acquisition by the root. In this review, we discuss all the known functions of Mediator subunits during root development. We also highlight the role of Mediator as a nodal point for processing different hormone signals that regulate root morphogenesis and growth.
Phage-host co-evolution has led to distinct generalized transduction strategies
Authors: Wolput Sanne , Lood Cédric , Fillol-Salom Alfred , Casters Yorben , Albasiony Alaa , Cenens William , Vanoirbeek Kristof , Kerremans Alison , Lavigne Rob , Penadés José R , Aertsen Abram
Published: June 2024

Generalized transduction is pivotal in bacterial evolution but lacks comprehensive understanding regarding the facilitating features and variations among phages. We addressed this gap by sequencing and comparing the transducing particle content of three different Salmonella Typhimurium phages (i.e. Det7, ES18 and P22) that share a headful packaging mechanism that is typically initiated from a cognate pac site within the phage chromosome. This revealed substantial disparities in both the extent and content of transducing particles among these phages. While Det7 outperformed ES18 in terms of relative number of transducing particles, both phages contrasted with P22 in terms of content. In fact, we found evidence for the presence of conserved P22 pac-like sequences in the host chromosome that direct tremendously increased packaging and transduction frequencies of downstream regions by P22. More specifically, a ca. 561 kb host region between oppositely oriented pac-like sequences in the purF and minE loci was identified as highly packaged and transduced during both P22 prophage induction and lytic infection. Our findings underscore the evolution of phage transducing capacity towards attenuation, promiscuity or directionality, and suggest that pac-like sequences in the host chromosome could become selected as sites directing high frequency of transduction.
Binding of the TRF2 iDDR motif to RAD50 highlights a convergent evolutionary strategy to inactivate MRN at telomeres
Authors: Khayat Freddy , Alshmery Majedh , Pal Mohinder , Oliver Antony W , Bianchi Alessandro
Published: June 2024

Telomeres protect chromosome ends from unscheduled DNA repair, including from the MRN (MRE11, RAD50, NBS1) complex, which processes double-stranded DNA breaks (DSBs) via activation of the ATM kinase, promotes DNA end-tethering aiding the non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) pathway, and initiates DSB resection through the MRE11 nuclease. A protein motif (MIN, for MRN inhibitor) inhibits MRN at budding yeast telomeres by binding to RAD50 and evolved at least twice, in unrelated telomeric proteins Rif2 and Taz1. We identify the iDDR motif of human shelterin protein TRF2 as a third example of convergent evolution for this telomeric mechanism for binding MRN, despite the iDDR lacking sequence homology to the MIN motif. CtIP is required for activation of MRE11 nuclease action, and we provide evidence for binding of a short C-terminal region of CtIP to a RAD50 interface that partly overlaps with the iDDR binding site, indicating that the interaction is mutually exclusive. In addition, we show that the iDDR impairs the DNA binding activity of RAD50. These results highlight direct inhibition of MRN action as a crucial role of telomeric proteins across organisms and point to multiple mechanisms enforced by the iDDR to disable the many activities of the MRN complex.
Reinventing gene expression connectivity through regulatory and spatial structural empowerment via principal node aggregation graph neural network
Authors: Yan Fengyao , Jiang Limin , Chen Danqian , Ceccarelli Michele , Guo Yan
Published: June 2024

The intricacies of the human genome, manifested as a complex network of genes, transcend conventional representations in text or numerical matrices. The intricate gene-to-gene relationships inherent in this complexity find a more suitable depiction in graph structures. In the pursuit of predicting gene expression, an endeavor shared by predecessors like the L1000 and Enformer methods, we introduce a novel spatial graph-neural network (GNN) approach. This innovative strategy incorporates graph features, encompassing both regulatory and structural elements. The regulatory elements include pair-wise gene correlation, biological pathways, protein–protein interaction networks, and transcription factor regulation. The spatial structural elements include chromosomal distance, histone modification and Hi-C inferred 3D genomic features. Principal Node Aggregation models, validated independently, emerge as frontrunners, demonstrating superior performance compared to traditional regression and other deep learning models. By embracing the spatial GNN paradigm, our method significantly advances the description of the intricate network of gene interactions, surpassing the performance, predictable scope, and initial requirements set by previous methods.
The Potential Impact of Oral Nicotine Pouches on Public Health: A Scoping Review
Authors: Travis Nargiz , Warner Kenneth E , Goniewicz Maciej L , Oh Hayoung , Ranganathan Radhika , Meza Rafael , Hartmann-Boyce Jamie , Levy David T
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Oral nicotine pouches (ONPs) are a new class of nicotine products. This scoping review summarizes evidence on ONPs and explores their potential public health impact.

Aims and Methods

We conducted a structured literature search for empirical studies across three electronic databases through January 10, 2024. Outcomes included ONP product characteristics, use patterns, beliefs and perceptions, toxicity, and marketing and sales.

Results

Sixty-two studies were included, 17 were industry-funded. Most studies were from the United States. While large variations across studies were observed in ONP youth prevalence estimates, nationally representative U.S. studies find current use at 1.5% and lifetime use below 2.5% through 2023. Between 35% and 42% of U.S. adolescents and young adults have heard of ONPs, and 9-21% of tobacco-naïve youth were susceptible to trying them. U.S. adult-use estimates varied widely (0.8%–3% current; 3%–16% lifetime use) and were limited to populations with a history of tobacco use. The chemical composition of ONPs suggests fewer harmful/potentially harmful compounds at lower levels than cigarettes and smokeless tobacco (SLT), except formaldehyde. Industry-funded studies find substantially less cytotoxicity compared to cigarettes and suggest that higher nicotine-strength ONPs can deliver nicotine at levels comparable to or higher than SLT or cigarettes, although with slower nicotine release than cigarettes. Evidence on the cytotoxicity of ONPs relative to SLT is mixed.

Conclusions

ONPs appear to be less toxic than cigarettes and deliver comparable nicotine, presenting an alternative for combustible product users, although key data are mainly available from industry-funded studies. Data from independent research is critically needed. Industry marketing of ONPs may encourage initiation in youth and situational and dual use in adults.

Implications

The review provides an initial assessment of the potential role of ONPs in harm reduction and aims to determine unintended consequences of their use (youth uptake and dual-use) and identify populations that disproportionately use the product. This information is essential for tobacco regulatory bodies in determining the net public health impact of nicotine pouches.
Assessment of damage in Takayasu’s arteritis
Authors: Kermani Tanaz A , Sreih Antoine G , Cuthbertson David , Khalidi Nader A , Koening Curry L , Langford Carol A , McAlear Carol A , Monach Paul A , Moreland Larry , Pagnoux Christian , Rhee Rennie L , Seo Philip , Warrington Kenneth J , Merkel Peter A
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To evaluate damage and clinical characteristics associated with damage in Takayasu’s arteritis (TAK).

Methods

Patients with TAK enrolled in a multicentre, prospective, observational study underwent standardized damage assessment every 6 months using the Vasculitis Damage Index (VDI) and the Large-Vessel Vasculitis Index of Damage (LVVID).

Results

The study included 236 patients with TAK: 92% female, 81% Caucasian; median (25th, 75th percentile) disease duration = 2.6 (0.12, 6.9) years. Eighty-four percent had follow-up: median (25th, 75th) duration 4.1 (1.9, 7.5) years. Items of damage were present in 89% on VDI, 87% on LVVID, in the peripheral vascular (76% VDI, 74% LVVID) and cardiac (40% VDI, 45% LVVID) systems. During follow-up, 42% patients had new damage, including major vessel stenosis/arterial occlusion (8%), limb claudication (6%), hypertension (7%), aortic aneurysm (4%) and bypass surgery (4%). Disease-specific damage accounted for >90% of new items. Older age, relapse and longer duration of follow-up were associated with new damage items; a higher proportion of patients without new damage were on MTX (P <0.05). Among 48 patients diagnosed with TAK within 180 days of enrolment, new damage occurred in 31% on VDI and 52% on LVVID. History of relapse was associated with new damage in the entire cohort while in patients with a recent diagnosis, older age at diagnosis was associated with new damage.

Conclusion

Damage is present in >80% of patients with TAK even with recent diagnosis and >40% of patients accrue new, mainly disease-specific damage. Therapies for TAK that better control disease activity and prevent damage should be prioritized.
“Nobody Becomes a Criminal to Work 9 to 5”: Unpaid Labor, Stigma, and Hegemony in Addiction Treatment
Authors: Hatton Erin
Published: June 2024

Is compulsory unpaid labor essential “therapy” or unjust exploitation? The informants of this study do not agree, but most believe the former: that the 40 hours a week they worked without pay for the Salvation Army’s multimillion-dollar thrift store enterprise was not unjustly exploitative. Yet how can such seemingly overt exploitation be justified in this way? The answer, this article argues, is stigma. This study’s 40 informants were residents of the Salvation Army’s addiction programs, where “work therapy”—compulsory unpaid labor—is the primary form of addiction “treatment.” Because people with addiction are stigmatized as unproductive and immoral, even by people who have themselves struggled with addiction, their exploitation is deemed legitimate. They need to learn the value of work and even how to work, informants argue, and so unpaid labor becomes much-needed “therapy.” This article offers new answers to longstanding sociological questions about why workers consent to their own exploitation. While scholars have identified how exploitation is both obfuscated and legitimated in the workplace, little attention has been paid to dynamics beyond the workplace. This article shows that stigma is a powerful tool of labor hegemony, wielded even by those who are themselves stigmatized.
Molecular Genotyping Analysis Suggested High Clonality and Simple Marker Loci in Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici Population in Uzbekistan, Central Asian Region
Authors: Ma Jinbiao , Awais Muhammad , Chen Wenbin , Zhang Bingbing , Li Li , Turakulov Khurshid S. , Egamberdieva Dilfuza , Karimjonovich Meliev Sodir , Kang Zhensheng , Zhao Jie
Published: June 2024

Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) is a destructive pathogen that causes wheat stripe rust worldwide. Understanding the population structure and dynamic of pathogen spread is critical to fight against this disease. Limited information is available for the population genetic structure of Pst in Uzbekistan, Central Asia. In this study, we carried out surveillance from nine different regions (Andijan, Fergana, Jizzakh, Kashkadarya, Namangan, Samarkand, Sirdaryo, Surkhandarya, and Tashkent) of Uzbekistan to fill this gap. A total of 255 isolates were collected, which were genotyped using 17 polymorphic simple sequence repeat markers. The DAPC analysis results showed no population subdivision in these sample-collected regions except Surkhandarya. Multilocus genotype (MLG) analysis, FST, and Nei’s genetic distance results indicated a clonal population (rBarD ≤ 0.12) and merely three MLGs accounting for 70% of the overall population. MLG-34 was predominant in all regions of Uzbekistan, followed by MLG-36 and MLG-42. Low genotypic diversity was observed in Andijan, Fergana, Jizzakh, Kashkadarya, Namangan, Sirdaryo, and Tashkent (0.56 to 0.76), compared with Samarkand (0.82) and Surkhandarya (0.97). No virulence against Yr5, Yr15, YrSp, and Yr26 was found, while resistance was overcome against Yr1, Yr2, Yr6, Yr9, Yr17, and Yr44 genes (virulence frequency ≥75%). Comparative study results of Uzbekistan with the previous Himalayan population showed divergence from China and Pakistan populations. Further studies need to be conducted in a worldwide context to understand migration patterns; for that purpose, collaborative work is essential because of the Pst long-distance migration capability.
Probe-Based Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Assay for Rapid Detection of Two Clarireedia spp., the Causal Agent of Dollar Spot of Turfgrass
Authors: Stackhouse Tammy , Bass Anna , Waliullah Sumyya , Ali Emran , Bahri Bochra A. , Martinez-Espinoza Alfredo D.
Published: June 2024

Dollar spot is a major fungal disease affecting turfgrass worldwide and can quickly destroy turfgrass swards. An assimilating probe–based loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay was developed to detect Clarireedia monteithiana and C. jacksonii, the causal agents of dollar spot within the continental United States. Five LAMP primers were designed to target the calmodulin gene with the addition of a 6-carboxyl-fluorescein florescent assimilating probe, and the temperature amplification was optimized for C. jacksonii and C. monteithiana identification. The minimum amount of purified DNA needed for detection was 0.05 ng μl−1. Specificity assays against host DNA and other turfgrass pathogens were negative. Successful LAMP amplification was also observed for dollar spot–infected turfgrass field samples. Further, a DNA extraction technique via rapid heat-chill cycles and visualization of LAMP results via a florescent flashlight was developed and adapted for fast, simple, and reliable detection in 1.25 h. This assimilating probe–based LAMP assay has proved successful as a rapid, sensitive, and specific method for the detection of C. monteithiana and C. jacksonii in pure cultures and from symptomatic turfgrass leaves blades. The assay represents a promising technology to be used in the field for on-site, point-of-care pathogen detection.
Closing the Chasm: Understanding and Addressing the Anesthesia Workforce Supply and Demand Imbalance
Authors: Abouleish Amr E. , Pomerantz Paul , Peterson Mary Dale , Cannesson Maxime , Akeju Oluwaseun , Miller Thomas R. , Rathmell James P. , Cole Daniel J.
Published: June 2024

The imbalance in anesthesia workforce supply and demand has been exacerbated post-COVID due to a surge in demand for anesthesia care, especially in non–operating room anesthetizing sites, at a faster rate than the increase in anesthesia clinicians. The consequences of this imbalance or labor shortage compromise healthcare facilities, adversely affect the cost of care, worsen anesthesia workforce burnout, disrupt procedural and surgical schedules, and threaten academic missions and the ability to educate future anesthesiologists. In developing possible solutions, one must examine emerging trends that are affecting the anesthesia workforce, new technologies that will transform anesthesia care and the workforce, and financial considerations, including governmental payment policies. Possible practice solutions to this imbalance will require both short- and long-term multifactorial approaches that include increasing training positions and retention policies, improving capacity through innovations, leveraging technology, and addressing financial constraints.
Incidence of Tibial Tubercle Fractures in Patients With and Without Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Authors: Milner John D. , Albright J. Alex , Callanan Tucker C. , Hall Rigel P. , Zhang Helen , Daniels Alan H. , Cruz Aristides I.
Published: June 2024

Background:

Patients with Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) may be at increased risk of tibial tubercle fractures due to an underlying weakness of the tibial tubercle apophysis relative to the patellar tendon as a result of repetitive microtrauma.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

The purpose of this study is to analyze the incidence of tibial tubercle fractures in patients with and without Osgood-Schlatter disease. We hypothesized that the incidence of tibial tubercle fractures would be higher in patients with Osgood-Schlatter disease.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort analysis of the PearlDiver database was performed by querying all patients diagnosed with Osgood-Schlatter disease between January 2010 and October 2022. An OSD cohort of 146,672 patients was captured using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9), Tenth Revision (ICD-10) billing codes, and age as inclusion/exclusion criteria. The Student t test and the χ2 analyses were used to compare the demographics and obesity between the OSD and control cohorts. Multivariable logistic regressions, controlling for residual differences in age, sex, and obesity, were used to compare rates of tibial tubercle fractures.

Results:

Patients with a recent history of OSD were found to have higher rates of tibial tubercle fractures than the control group at all measured time points (P<0.001). The 1-year rate of tibial tubercle fractures was 0.62% in the OSD group. The incidence of tibial tubercle fractures in the OSD group was 627.3 cases per 100,000 person-years compared with 42.7 cases per 100,000 person-years in the control group (P<0.001). Male sex and obesity were also associated with an increased risk of sustaining a tibial tubercle fracture within these patient populations (P<0.001).

Conclusion:

We report a significantly higher incidence of tibial tubercle fractures among patients with OSD compared with controls. This increase was most significant at 1 month following OSD diagnosis, however, held true for all measured time points. In addition, male patients and those with obesity were also noted to have increased incidence of tibial tubercle fractures regardless of an OSD diagnosis.
Association between priori and posteriori dietary patterns and gastric cancer risk: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Luo Meng-Zhao , Shu Long , Ye Xiao-Sen
Published: June 2024

An increasing number of epidemiological studies have explored the relationship between the risk of gastric cancer and specific dietary patterns, but the findings remain inconclusive. We, therefore, performed this comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis to analyze the available evidence regarding the associations between a priori and a posteriori dietary patterns and the risk of gastric cancer. A systematic search of six electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang Data, was carried out to retrieve the relevant articles published up to March 2024. Thirty-six studies (10 cohort and 26 case–control studies) with a total of 2 181 762 participants were included in the final analyses. Combining 15 effect sizes extracted from 12 articles, we observed a reduced risk of gastric cancer in the highest versus the lowest categories of the Mediterranean diet [relative risk (RR), 0.72; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.61–0.85; P < 0.001]. Combining 11 effect sizes from 10 articles (involving 694 240 participants), we found that the highest Dietary Inflammatory Index scores were significantly associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer (RR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.11–1.57; P < 0.001). A reduced risk of gastric cancer was shown for the highest compared with the lowest categories of healthy dietary pattern (RR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.67–0.91; P = 0.002). Conversely, the highest adherence to the Western dietary pattern was associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer (RR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.19–1.49; P < 0.001). Our study demonstrated that the Mediterranean diet and a healthy dietary pattern were associated with a decreased risk of gastric cancer. Conversely, the Dietary Inflammatory Index and Western dietary pattern were associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer.
Atmospheric particulate matter and hypoxaemia in Korean children receiving general anaesthesia
Authors: Park Jung-Bin , Kang Pyoyoon , Ji Sang-Hwan , Jang Young-Eun , Lee Ji-Hyun , Kim Jin-Tae , Kim Hee-Soo , Kim Eun-Hee
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

The association between the concentration of atmospheric particulate matter on the day of surgery and the occurrence of intra-operative hypoxaemia in children receiving general anaesthesia is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between the exposure to of particulate matter on the day of surgery and the occurrence of intra-operative hypoxaemia, defined as a pulse oximetry oxygen saturation of less than 90% for more than 1 min, in children.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Single-centre.

PARTICIPANTS

Children aged 18 years or younger who received general anaesthesia between January 2019 and October 2020.

INTERVENTION

Information on daily levels of particulate matter with a diameter 10 μm or less and 2.5 μm or less measured within a neighbourhood corresponding to the area defined by the hospital's zip code was obtained from publicly available air-quality data.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was intra-operative hypoxaemia, defined as a pulse oximetry oxygen saturation of less than 90% lasting for more than 1 min, manually verified by anaesthesiologists using vital sign registry data extracted at 2 s intervals.

RESULTS

Of the patients finally analysed, 3.85% (489/13 175) experienced intra-operative hypoxaemia. Higher levels of particulate matter 10 μm or less in diameter (≥81 μg m−3, 472/12 900, 3.7%) were associated with an increased occurrence of intra-operative hypoxaemia compared with lower particulate matter concentrations [<81 μg m−3, 17/275, 6.2%; adjusted odds ratio, 1.71; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.04 to 2.83; P = 0.035].

CONCLUSION

The level of particulate matter on the day of surgery pose a risk of intra-operative hypoxaemia in children receiving general anaesthesia. If the concentrations of particulate matter 10 μm or less in diameter on the day of surgery are high, children receiving general anaesthesia should be managed with increased caution.
Simulation-Based Optimization of Sampling Schedules for Model-Informed Precision Dosing of Once-Daily and 4-Times-Daily Busulfan in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Ben Hassine Khalil , Daali Youssef , Gloor Yvonne , Nava Tiago , Théorêt Yves , Krajinovic Maja , Bittencourt Henrique , Satyanarayana Uppugunduri Chakradhara Rao , Ansari Marc
Published: June 2024

Background:

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is crucial in optimizing the outcomes of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation by guiding busulfan (Bu) dosing. Limited sampling strategies show promise for efficiently adjusting drug doses. However, comprehensive assessments and optimization of sampling schedules for Bu TDM in pediatric patients are limited. We aimed to establish optimal sampling designs for model-informed precision dosing (MIPD) of once-daily (q24h) and 4-times-daily (q6h) Bu administration in pediatric patients.

Methods:

Simulated data sets were used to evaluate the population pharmacokinetic model-based Bayesian estimation of the area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) for different limited sampling strategy designs. The evaluation was based on the mean prediction error for accuracy and root mean square error for precision. These findings were validated using patient-observed data. In addition, the MIPD protocol was implemented in the Tucuxi software, and its performance was assessed.

Results:

Our Bayesian estimation approach allowed for flexible sampling times while maintaining mean prediction error within ±5% and root mean square error below 10%. Accurate and precise AUC0–24h and cumulative AUC estimations were obtained using 2-sample and single-sample schedules for q6h and q24h dosing, respectively. TDM on 2 separate days was necessary to accurately estimate cumulative exposure, especially in patients receiving q6h Bu. Validation with observed patient data confirmed the precision of the proposed limited sampling scenarios. Implementing the MIPD protocol in Tucuxi software yielded reliable AUC estimations.

Conclusions:

Our study successfully established precise limited sampling protocols for MIPD of Bu in pediatric patients. Our findings underscore the importance of TDM on at least 2 occasions to accurately achieve desired Bu exposures. The developed MIPD protocol and its implementation in Tucuxi software provide a valuable tool for routine TDM in pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Uveitis-Glaucoma-Hyphema Syndrome From Subtle Malposition of a Hydrus Microstent
Authors: Polski Ashley , Long Theresa , Stagg Brian C. , Wirostko Barbara
Published: June 2024

Uveitis-glaucoma-hyphema (UGH) syndrome is a rare condition characterized by intraocular inflammation, elevated intraocular pressure, and recurrent hyphema. Although UGH syndrome is typically caused by chafing between an intraocular lens and the iris or ciliary body, microinvasive glaucoma devices are becoming increasingly recognized as potential causes of recurrent intraocular inflammation. Herein, we discuss a case of UGH syndrome due to the subtle malposition of a Hydrus microstent that ultimately required surgical removal to manage. This represents the first case of Hydrus-related UGH syndrome to include high-quality anterior segment imaging, which led us to suspect Hydrus-iris contact and supported the decision to proceed with microstent explantation.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery With Immunohistochemistry for the Treatment of Periocular Melanoma In Situ
Authors: McInnis-Smith Kerri M. , Asamoah Eucabeth M. , Demer Addison M. , Sharma Kannan , Yu Caroline Y. , Bradley Elizabeth A. , Tooley Andrea A. , Wagner Lilly H.
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

Mohs micrographic surgery with immunohistochemistry allows for same-day comprehensive margin assessment of melanoma in situ prior to subspecialty reconstruction. This study describes the oncologic and reconstructive outcomes of eyelid and periorbital melanoma in situ and identifies risk factors for complex reconstructive demands.

Methods:

Retrospective case series of all patients treated with Mohs micrographic surgery with immunohistochemistry for melanoma in situ affecting the eyelids or periorbital region from 2008 to 2018 at a single institution. Tumors were assigned to the eyelid group if the clinically visible tumor involved the skin inside the orbital rim. Reconstructive variables were compared between the eyelid and periorbital cohorts.

Results:

There were 24 eyelid and 141 periorbital tumors included. The initial surgical margin for all tumors was 5.34 ± 1.54 mm and multiple Mohs stages were required in 24.2% of cases. Eyelid tumors included more recurrences (p = 0.003), and the average defect size was larger (14.0 ± 13.3 cm2 vs. 7.7 ± 5.4 cm2, p = 0.03). Risk factors for complex reconstruction included: initial tumor diameter >2 cm (odds ratio [OR]: 3.84, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.95–7.57) and eyelid involved by initial tumor (OR: 4.88, 95% CI: 1.94–12.28). At an average follow-up of 4.8 years, there were no melanoma-related deaths and 1 local recurrence (0.6% recurrence rate).

Conclusions:

Mohs micrographic surgery with immunohistochemistry achieves excellent local control rates for periocular melanoma in situ. An initial surgical margin of 5 mm is frequently insufficient to achieve clear margins. The resulting defects are large, and the complexity of reconstruction can be predicted by tumor size and clinical involvement of eyelid skin.