bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ocular Chemical Burns: Epidemiological Trends in a Colombian Medical Center
Authors: Robayo-Velásquez Juan F , Bonilla-Escobar Francisco J , Salamanca Omar , Martínez-Blanco Alexander M
Published: February 2024

Ocular chemical burns are a significant cause of visual impairment. This study aims to characterize the ocular chemical burns in a southwestern Colombia referral center and identify associated factors with low vision. A retrospective cohort study was carried out based on the review of medical records of patients diagnosed with chemical eye burns who consulted the emergency ophthalmology service between January 2016 and December 2019. Descriptive statistics were performed. Associations with low vision (Best-Corrected Visual Acuity, ≥20/70 in Snellen chart) in the last follow-up appointment were identified using a multivariate logistic regression with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). About 219 eyes affected by chemical burns were identified from 174 patients with a mean age of 39 years (SD ± 20), of which 57.5% (n = 100) were men. We ran a multivariate model adjusted by sex, eye wash, type of chemical, and Dua’s classification. We found that the odds of low vision for patients without eyewash before the consult were 3 times the odds of those who had it (adjusted OR [aOR] = 3.5, 95% CI = 1.3-9.4) and almost 5 times for those with Dua’s classification >1 (aOR = 4.7, 95% CI = 1.7-12.9). The ocular chemical burns reported in this study occurred more in young people of productive age. Acids were the principal causal agent. The association between lack of early management and the severity of the chemical burn with low vision has been highlighted. Ocular burns remain a relevant cause of consultation on the ophthalmology service in Cali, and prevention strategies are required.
Matrix metalloproteinase-9 deficiency confers resilience in fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva in a man and mice
Authors: Lounev Vitali , Groppe Jay C , Brewer Niambi , Wentworth Kelly L , Smith Victoria , Xu Meiqi , Schomburg Lutz , Bhargava Pankaj , Al Mukaddam Mona , Hsiao Edward C , Shore Eileen M , Pignolo Robert J , Kaplan Frederick S
Published: February 2024

Single case studies of extraordinary disease resilience may provide therapeutic insight into conditions for which no definitive treatments exist. An otherwise healthy 35-year-old man (patient-R) with the canonical pathogenic ACVR1R206H variant and the classic congenital great toe malformation of fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) had extreme paucity of post-natal heterotopic ossification (HO) and nearly normal mobility. We hypothesized that patient-R lacked a sufficient post-natal inflammatory trigger for HO. A plasma biomarker survey revealed a reduction in total matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) compared to healthy controls and individuals with quiescent FOP. Whole exome sequencing identified compound heterozygous variants in MMP-9 (c.59C > T, p.A20V and c.493G > A, p.D165N). Structural analysis of the D165N variant predicted both decreased MMP-9 secretion and activity that were confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and gelatin zymography. Further, human proinflammatory M1-like macrophages expressing either MMP-9 variant produced significantly less Activin A, an obligate ligand for HO in FOP, compared to wildtype controls. Importantly, MMP-9 inhibition by genetic, biologic, or pharmacologic means in multiple FOP mouse models abrogated trauma-induced HO, sequestered Activin A in the extracellular matrix (ECM), and induced regeneration of injured skeletal muscle. Our data suggest that MMP-9 is a druggable node linking inflammation to HO, orchestrates an existential role in the pathogenesis of FOP, and illustrates that a single patient’s clinical phenotype can reveal critical molecular mechanisms of disease that unveil novel treatment strategies.
Giant cell arteritis associated with intravenous zoledronic acid administration
Authors: Balbach Meridith L , Hewlett Jennifer R , Wermers Robert A , Warrington Kenneth J , Tanner S Bobo , Chew Erin Y
Published: February 2024

Bisphosphonates frequently provoke a cytokine-driven acute clinical response (ACR) characterized by fever, chills, arthralgias, and myalgias. More rarely, an association between aminobisphosphonates, such as alendronate and zoledronic acid, and rheumatologic and/or immune-mediated syndromes (RIMS) has been described. Herein we report 2 patients, one with a prior history of rheumatic disease and one without, who developed giant cell arteritis meeting the American College of Rheumatology 2022 criteria following zoledronic acid infusion. We subsequently review existing mechanistic and clinical literature supporting this link. The duration of symptoms and elevation of inflammatory markers may serve as indicators for differentiating between the more common ACR and less frequent but potentially morbid RIMS. Although the benefit of bisphosphonates will outweigh the risk of RIMS for most patients with high fracture risk, clinicians should be aware of this phenomenon to assist earlier diagnosis and treatment in affected individuals.
Generative artificial intelligence and building design: early photorealistic render visualization of façades using local identity-trained models
Authors: Jo Hayoung , Lee Jin-Kook , Lee Yong-Cheol , Choo Seungyeon
Published: February 2024

This paper elucidates an approach that utilizes generative artificial intelligence (AI) to develop alternative architectural design options based on local identity. The advancement of AI technologies has increasingly piqued the interest of the architecture, engineering, construction, and facility management industry. Notably, the topic of “visualization” has gained prominence as a means for enhancing communication related to a project, especially in the early phases of design. This study aims to enhance the ease of obtaining design images during initial phases of design by drawing from multiple texts and images. It develops an additional training model to generate various design alternatives that resonate with the identity of the locale through the application of generative AI to the façade design of buildings. The identity of a locality in cities and regions is the capacity for the cities and regions to be identified and recognized as a specific area. Among the various visual elements of urban and regional landscapes, the front face of buildings may play a significant role in people’s aesthetic perception and overall impression of the local environment. The research proposes an approach that transcends the conventional employment of three-dimensional modeling and rendering tools by readily deriving design alternatives that consider this local identity in commercial building remodeling. This approach allows for financial and temporal efficiency in the design communication phase of the initial architectural design process. The implementation and utilization of the proposed approach’s supplementary training model in this study proceeds as follows: (i) image data are collected from the target area using open-source street-view resources and preprocessed for conversion to a trainable format; (ii) textual data are prepared for pairing with preprocessed image data; (iii) additional training and outcome testing are performed using varied text prompts and images; and (iv) the ability to generate building façade images that reflect the identity of the collected locale by using the additional trained model is determined, as evidenced by the findings of the proposed application method study. This enables the generation of design alternatives that integrate regional styles and diverse design requirements for buildings. The training model implemented in this study can be leveraged through weight adjustments and prompt engineering to generate a greater number of design reference images, among other diverse approaches.
Developing lygus bug control strategies in potatoes: plant variety, vertical distribution effect, and insecticide efficacy studies
Authors: Rondon Silvia I , Shrestha Govinda
Published: February 2024

The Columbia Basin of Oregon and Washington is one of the most productive potatoes, Solanum tuberosum L., growing regions in the United States affected by numerous insect pests. Lygus bugs, Lygus spp. (Hemiptera: Miridae), are an increasing problem in potatoes. In 2015, after an outbreak of lygus bugs in potatoes in the Columbia Basin, potato producers used multiple applications of insecticides to control lygus bugs. However, it is poorly researched whether lygus bugs can cause economic damage to the crop. Therefore, our objectives were (i) to determine lygus bugs presence in potato plants, (ii) to determine damage on most commonly grown potato varieties (e.g., Alturas Russet, Ranger Russet, Umatilla Russet, Russet Burbank, and Clearwater Russet), (iii) to determine the number of insecticide applications needed to control lygus bugs, and (iv) to estimate the relationship between lygus bug density and potato yield loss. This study demonstrated that the lygus complex is widely present in the Columbia Basin, Lygus spp. prefers the upper 1/3 section of potato plants in all varieties tested, and the number of applications throughout a field season does not affect yield regardless of variety.
A novel insecticide, isocycloseram, shows promise as an alternative to chlorpyrifos against a direct pest of peanut, Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Bekelja Kyle M , Malone Sean , Mascarenhas Victor , Taylor Sally
Published: February 2024

Larvae of the southern corn rootworm (SCR) Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi Barber (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) are primary pests of peanut in the Virginia-Carolina region of the United States, and are relatively sporadic pests in southern states such as Georgia, Alabama, and Florida. Peanuts have strict quality standards which, when they are not met, can diminish crop value by more than 65%. Management of direct pests like SCR is therefore crucial to maintaining the economic viability of the crop. The soil-dwelling nature of SCR larvae complicates management due to difficulties associated with monitoring and predicting infestations. Nonchemical management options are limited in this system; preventative insecticide applications are the most reliable management strategy for at-risk fields. Chlorpyrifos was the standard product for larval SCR management in peanut until its registration was revoked in 2022, leaving no effective chemical management option for larvae. We tested a novel insecticide, isocycloseram, for its ability to reduce pod scarring, pod penetration, and non-SCR pod damage in field studies conducted in Suffolk, Virginia in 2020–2022. Overall injury was low in 2020 and 2022, and in 2022 there was not a significant effect of treatment. In 2021, 2 simulated chemigation applications of isocycloseram in July significantly reduced pod scarring and overall pod injury relative to chlorpyrifos and the untreated control. Our results suggest that isocycloseram may become an effective option for managing SCR in peanut, although more work is needed to understand the mechanisms by which it is effective as a soil-applied insecticide.
On DeFi and On-Chain CeFi: How (Not) to Regulate Decentralized Finance
Authors: Schuler Katrin , Cloots Ann Sofie , Schär Fabian
Published: February 2024

This article proposes a framework to assess the factual decentralization of blockchain-based financial infrastructure, commonly referred to as ‘decentralized finance’ (DeFi). It discusses various centralization vectors along the DeFi architecture layers from a technological and legal point of view. Distinguishing between endogenous and inherited centralization, the importance of decentralization assessments for regulators is demonstrated. First, centralization vectors are a strong indication that a DeFi project may have (some) custodial properties warranting regulation. Second, centralization vectors reveal the avenues of control in projects, pointing out appropriate regulatory hooks. The article serves as an interdisciplinary introduction that analyses blockchain-based financial infrastructure and provides policymakers and regulators with a tool to identify the differences between truly independent, neutral infrastructure and fake decentralization. It concludes that the former may have very beneficial properties and can contribute towards a more open and transparent financial system, while the latter is a blockchain-based form of financial intermediation and should be regulated as such.
Differentiated sex chromosomes, karyotype evolution, and spontaneous triploidy in carphodactylid geckos
Authors: Pensabene Eleonora , Augstenová Barbora , Kratochvíl Lukáš , Rovatsos Michail
Published: February 2024

Geckos exhibit derived karyotypes without a clear distinction between macrochromosomes and microchromosomes and intriguing diversity in sex determination mechanisms. We conducted cytogenetic analyses in six species from the genera Nephrurus, Phyllurus, and Saltuarius of the gecko family Carphodactylidae. We confirmed the presence of a female heterogametic system with markedly differentiated and heteromorphic sex chromosomes in all examined species, typically with the W chromosome notably larger than the Z chromosome. One species, Nephrurus cinctus, possesses unusual multiple Z1Z1Z2Z2/Z1Z2W sex chromosomes. The morphology of the sex chromosomes, along with repetitive DNA content, suggests that the differentiation or emergence of sex chromosomes occurred independently in the genus Phyllurus. Furthermore, our study unveils a case of spontaneous triploidy in a fully grown individual of Saltuarius cornutus (3n = 57) and explores its implications for reproduction in carphodactylid geckos. We revealed that most carphodactylids retain the putative ancestral gekkotan karyotype of 2n = 38, characterized by predominantly acrocentric chromosomes that gradually decrease in size. If present, biarmed chromosomes emerge through pericentric inversions, maintaining the chromosome (and centromere) numbers. However, Phyllurus platurus is a notable exception, with a karyotype of 2n = 22 chromosomes. Its eight pairs of biarmed chromosomes were probably formed by Robertsonian fusions of acrocentric chromosomes. The family underscores a remarkable instance of evolutionary stability in chromosome numbers, followed by a profound transformation through parallel interchromosomal rearrangements. Our study highlights the need to continue generating cytogenetic data in order to test long-standing ideas about reproductive biology and the evolution of genome and sex determination.
Expanding the synthetic biology toolbox of Cupriavidus necator for establishing fatty acid production
Authors: Mishra Shivangi , Perkovich Paul M , Mitchell Wayne P , Venkataraman Maya , Pfleger Brian F
Published: February 2024

The Gram-negative betaproteobacterium Cupriavidus necator is a chemolithotroph that can convert carbon dioxide into biomass. Cupriavidus necator has been engineered to produce a variety of high-value chemicals in the past. However, there is still a lack of a well-characterized toolbox for gene expression and genome engineering. Development and optimization of biosynthetic pathways in metabolically engineered microorganisms necessitates control of gene expression via functional genetic elements such as promoters, ribosome binding sites (RBSs), and codon optimization. In this work, a set of inducible and constitutive promoters were validated and characterized in C. necator, and a library of RBSs was designed and tested to show a 50-fold range of expression for green fluorescent protein (gfp). The effect of codon optimization on gene expression in C. necator was studied by expressing gfp and mCherry genes with varied codon-adaptation indices and was validated by expressing codon-optimized variants of a C12-specific fatty acid thioesterase to produce dodecanoic acid. We discuss further hurdles that will need to be overcome for C. necator to be widely used for biosynthetic processes.
Gastric-type adenocarcinoma of the uterine cervix: clinical features and future directions
Authors: Nishio Hiroshi , Matsuda Risa , Iwata Takashi , Yamagami Wataru
Published: February 2024

The concept of gastric-type mucinous carcinoma of the uterine cervix (GAS) has been accepted worldwide because of its aggressive clinical behaviour and the absence of high-risk human papilloma virus infection. The World Health Organization (WHO) 2020 classification divides cervical tumours into two categories: human papilloma virus-associated and human papilloma virus-independent. Hence, GAS is now classified as an human papilloma virus-independent gastric type. Because clinical studies have reported that GAS is refractory to conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, especially at an advanced stage, and has aggressive features with widespread dissemination to unusual sites, such as the omentum, peritoneum and distant organs, it is urgent to establish new treatment strategies by comparing the molecular profiles of human papilloma virus-associated adenocarcinomas. A series of genetic mutations characteristic to GAS encourage the development of future treatment strategies such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
6-Formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole, a potent ligand for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, attenuates concanavalin-induced hepatitis by limiting T-cell activation and infiltration of proinflammatory CD11b+ Kupffer cells
Authors: Cannon Alkeiver S , Holloman Bryan L , Wilson Kiesha , Miranda Kathryn , Nagarkatti Prakash S , Nagarkatti Mitzi
Published: February 2024

FICZ (6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole) is a potent aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist that has a poorly understood function in the regulation of inflammation. In this study, we investigated the effect of aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation by FICZ in a murine model of autoimmune hepatitis induced by concanavalin A. High-throughput sequencing techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing and assay for transposase accessible chromatin sequencing were used to explore the mechanisms through which FICZ induces its effects. FICZ treatment attenuated concanavalin A–induced hepatitis, evidenced by decreased T-cell infiltration, decreased circulating alanine transaminase levels, and suppression of proinflammatory cytokines. Concanavalin A revealed an increase in natural killer T cells, T cells, and mature B cells upon concanavalin A injection while FICZ treatment reversed the presence of these subsets. Surprisingly, concanavalin A depleted a subset of CD55+ B cells, while FICZ partially protected this subset. The immune cells showed significant dysregulation in the gene expression profiles, including diverse expression of migratory markers such as CCL4, CCL5, and CXCL2 and critical regulatory markers such as Junb. Assay for transposase accessible chromatin sequencing showed more accessible chromatin in the CD3e promoter in the concanavalin A–only group as compared to the naive and concanavalin A–exposed, FICZ-treated group. While there was overall more accessible chromatin of the Adgre1 (F4/80) promoter in the FICZ-treated group, we observed less open chromatin in the Itgam (CD11b) promoter in Kupffer cells, supporting the ability of FICZ to reduce the infiltration of proinflammatory cytokine producing CD11b+ Kupffer cells. Taken together, these data demonstrate that aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation by FICZ suppresses liver injury through the limitation of CD3+ T-cell activation and CD11b+ Kupffer cell infiltration.
Reproductive state alters vocal characteristics of female North American red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)
Authors: Hare Alexander J , McAdam Andrew G , Dantzer Ben , Lane Jeffrey E , Boutin Stan , Newman Amy E M
Published: February 2024

Female advertisement of reproductive state and receptivity has the potential to play a large role in the mating systems of many taxa, but investigations of this phenomenon are underrepresented in the literature. North American red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) are highly territorial and engage in scramble competition mating, with males converging from spatially disparate territories to engage in mating chases. Given the narrow estrus window exhibited in this species, the ubiquitous use of vocalizations to advertise territory ownership, and the high synchronicity of males arriving from distant territories, we hypothesized that female vocalizations contain cues relating to their estrous state. To test this hypothesis, we examined the spectral and temporal properties of female territorial rattle vocalizations collected from females of known reproductive condition over 3 years. While we found no distinct changes associated with estrus specifically, we did identify significant changes in the spectral characteristics of rattles relating to both female body mass and reproductive state relative to parturition. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first evidence of changes in vocal characteristics associated with late pregnancy in a nonhuman mammal.
Diversity and distribution of sodium channel mutations inAedes albopictus(Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Endersby-Harshman Nancy M , Schmidt Thomas L , Hoffmann Ary A
Published: February 2024

There is growing interest in insecticide resistance in the mosquito, Aedes albopictus (Skuse), as its potential for spreading diseases is increasing as urbanization and control efforts intensify. Here we review the presence and diversity of mutations in the voltage-sensitive sodium channel (Vssc) gene associated with pyrethroid resistance and report on additional surveys of these mutations in new populations with an analysis of their spread. The known diversity of these mutations has increased in recent years including the identification of 26 non-synonymous mutations, although phenotypic data associating mutations with resistance remain limited. We provide data on mutations in several new locations including those in Timor Leste, Indonesia, and Vanuatu. We use population genomic data from ddRAD analyses of target populations with the 1534C mutation to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with the mutant to test for clustering of SNPs based on the presence of the 1534C mutation rather than population origin. Our findings suggest spread of resistance alleles via genetic invasion, which is further supported by patterns from a genome-wide principal components analysis. These data point to movement of resistance alleles across wide areas with likely impacts on local control options.
Fecundity decline is male derived following transfluthrin exposures in a field strain of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: McKay Sean A , McKay Conner J , Bibbs Christopher S , Bloomquist Jeffrey R , Kaufman Phillip E
Published: February 2024

Volatile pyrethroids are effective in reducing mosquito populations and repelling vectors away from hosts. However, many gaps in knowledge exist for the sublethal impacts of volatile pyrethroids on mosquitoes. To that end, transfluthrin exposures were conducted on a field strain of Aedes albopictus (Skuse) held as a laboratory colony. Dose–response analysis was conducted on both sexes at either 1–4 days old or 5–10 days old. Resultant concentration data were used to evaluate the LC20 and LC50 values in various mate pairings of treatments and controls in which either the male or female was from a selectively treated group and mated with a counterpart that was treated independently. Blood feeding proportion, delayed mortality after a 24-h recovery period, egg collection totals, and F1 larval survival were determined following transfluthrin treatment in the F0, but outcomes were not significant. In contrast, sterility was predicated on male treatment, with treated females resulting in higher overall egg viability. Treated males in the mating pair resulted in significantly lower egg viability and accelerated larval hatch in the F1. Additionally, the presence of sperm in female spermathecae was significantly diminished in test groups containing treated male mosquitoes. Male sublethal effects may be a critical determinant of a mixed population’s reproductive success.
A Descriptive Analysis of Countries Represented by Authors’ and Editorial Review Board Members’ Institutional Affiliations in the Journal of Music Therapy, 1998–2022
Authors: Silverman Michael J , Pankaew Parintorn
Published: February 2024

The Journal of Music Therapy (JMT) authors’ and editorial review board members’ (ERBM) affiliation locations represent an aspect of diversity through differing cultures and political, healthcare, and educational systems. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the countries of JMT authors’ and ERBM’s institutional affiliations from 1998 to 2022. We established inclusion and exclusion criteria, operationally defined categories, and built databases. A total of 433 articles met our inclusion criteria. Most articles were published by authors/author teams located in the United States (n = 305; 70.44%) or in a single international country (n = 85; 19.63%), while fewer articles were published by author teams located in multiple international countries (n = 23, 5.31%) or in international countries and the United States (n = 20, 4.62%). Authors were from 21 countries, and there tended to be a slight decline over time in articles by United States authors. When examining the total countries represented, United States authors (n = 330) had the most articles followed by Australia (n = 32), Norway (n = 18), England (n = 14), Israel (n = 13), and Canada, Denmark, and South Korea (all n = 12). There were 632 total JMT ERBM with 470 located within the United States and 162 located internationally. Although all ERBM’s affiliations were in the United States in 1998, these data gradually changed. There were more ERBM located internationally than in the United States from 2020 to 2022. Most international ERBM were from Australia, Canada, England, Israel, and Spain. Implications, limitations, and suggestions for future research are provided.
Neoadjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy and lymphadenectomy for penile cancer: an international, multi-institutional, real-world study
Authors: Rose Kyle M , Pham Rachel , Zacharias Niki M , Ionescu Filip , Paravathaneni Mahati , Marchetti Kathryn A , Sanchez Darren , Mustasam Arfa , Sandstrom Reagan , Vikram Raghu , Dhillon Jasreman , Rao Priya , Schneider Amy , Pagliaro Lance , Alifrangis Constantine , Albersen Maarten , Roussel Eduard , Master Viraj A , Nazha Bassel , Hernandez Cindy , Moses Kelvin A , Protzel Chris , Montgomery Jeffrey , Angel Martin , Tobias-Machado Marcos , Spiess Philippe E , Pettaway Curtis A , Chahoud Jad
Published: February 2024

Introduction

This study investigated the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advance penile squamous cell carcinoma for which current evidence is lacking.

Methods

Included patients had locally advanced penile squamous cell carcinoma with clinical lymph node metastasis treated with at least 1 dose of neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to planned consolidative lymphadenectomy. Objective response rates were assessed using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors v1.1. The primary and secondary outcomes were overall survival and progression-free survival, estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method. Treatment-related adverse events were graded per the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v5.0.

Results

A total of 209 patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced and clinically node-positive penile squamous cell carcinoma. The study population consisted of 7% of patients with stage II disease, 48% with stage III, and 45% with stage IV. Grade 2 treatment-related adverse events occurred in 35 (17%) patients, and no treatment-related mortality was observed. Of the patients, 201 (97%) completed planned consolidative lymphadenectomy. During follow-up, 106 (52.7%) patients expired, with a median overall survival of 37.0 months (95% confidence interval [CI] = 23.8 to 50.1 months) and median progression-free survival of 26.0 months (95% CI = 11.7 to 40.2 months). Objective response rate was 57.2%, with 87 (43.2%) having partial response and 28 (13.9%) having a complete response. Patients with objective response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy had a longer median overall survival (73.0 vs 17.0 months, P < .01) compared with those who did not. The lymph node pathologic complete response rate was 24.8% in the cohort.

Conclusion

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy with lymphadenectomy for locally advanced penile squamous cell carcinoma is well tolerated and active to reduce the disease burden and improve long-term survival outcomes.
PM2.5, vegetation density, and childhood cancer: a case-control registry-based study from Texas 1995-2011
Authors: Williams Lindsay A , Haynes David , Sample Jeannette M , Lu Zhanni , Hossaini Ali , McGuinn Laura A , Hoang Thanh T , Lupo Philip J , Scheurer Michael E
Published: February 2024

Background

Air pollution is positively associated with some childhood cancers, whereas greenness is inversely associated with some adult cancers. The interplay between air pollution and greenness in childhood cancer etiology is unclear. We estimated the association between early-life air pollution and greenness exposure and childhood cancer in Texas (1995 to 2011).

Methods

We included 6101 cancer cases and 109 762 controls (aged 0 to 16 years). We linked residential birth address to census tract annual average fine particulate matter <2.5 µg/m³ (PM2.5) and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). We estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) between PM2.5/NDVI interquartile range increases and cancer. We assessed statistical interaction between PM2.5 and NDVI (likelihood ratio tests).

Results

Increasing residential early-life PM2.5 exposure was associated with all childhood cancers (OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.06 to 1.15), lymphoid leukemias (OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 1.07 to 1.23), Hodgkin lymphomas (OR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.02 to 1.58), non-Hodgkin lymphomas (OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.02 to 1.51), ependymoma (OR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.01 to 1.60), and others. Increasing NDVI exposure was inversely associated with ependymoma (0- to 4-year-old OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.58 to 0.97) and medulloblastoma (OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.62 to 0.91) but positively associated with malignant melanoma (OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.23 to 2.47) and Langerhans cell histiocytosis (OR = 1.56, 95% CI = 1.07 to 2.28). There was evidence of statistical interaction between NDVI and PM2.5 (P < .04) for all cancers.

Conclusion

Increasing early-life exposure to PM2.5 increased the risk of childhood cancers. NDVI decreased the risk of 2 cancers yet increased the risk of others. These findings highlight the complexity between PM2.5 and NDVI in cancer etiology.
Mechanisms of sleep disturbances in long-term cancer survivors: a childhood cancer survivor study report
Authors: Daniel Lauren C , Wang Huiqi , Brinkman Tara M , Ruble Kathy , Zhou Eric S , Palesh Oxana , Stremler Robyn , Howell Rebecca , Mulrooney Daniel A , Crabtree Valerie M , Mostoufi-Moab Sogol , Oeffinger Kevin , Neglia Joseph , Yasui Yutaka , Armstrong Gregory T , Krull Kevin
Published: February 2024

Background

Sleep problems following childhood cancer treatment may persist into adulthood, exacerbating cancer-related late effects and putting survivors at risk for poor physical and psychosocial functioning. This study examines sleep in long-term survivors and their siblings to identify risk factors and disease correlates.

Methods

Childhood cancer survivors (≥5 years from diagnosis; n = 12 340; 51.5% female; mean [SD] age = 39.4 [9.6] years) and siblings (n = 2395; 57.1% female; age = 44.6 [10.5] years) participating in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Multivariable Poisson-error generalized estimating equation compared prevalence of binary sleep outcomes between survivors and siblings and evaluated cancer history and chronic health conditions (CHC) for associations with sleep outcomes, adjusting for age (at diagnosis and current), sex, race/ethnicity, and body mass index.

Results

Survivors were more likely to report clinically elevated composite PSQI scores (>5; 45.1% vs 40.0%, adjusted prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.27), symptoms of insomnia (38.8% vs 32.0%, PR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.18 to 1.35), snoring (18.0% vs 17.4%, PR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.01 to 1.23), and sleep medication use (13.2% vs 11.5%, PR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.12 to 1.45) compared with siblings. Within cancer survivors, PSQI scores were similar across diagnoses. Anthracycline exposure (PR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.03 to 1.25), abdominal radiation (PR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.04 to 1.29), and increasing CHC burden were associated with elevated PSQI scores (PRs = 1.21-1.48).

Conclusions

Among survivors, sleep problems were more closely related to CHC than diagnosis or treatment history, although longitudinal research is needed to determine the direction of this association. Frequent sleep-promoting medication use suggests interest in managing sleep problems; behavioral sleep intervention is advised for long-term management.
Analysis of Forest Inventory Data Shows Disparity in Tree Mortality and Resistance in Texas National Forests
Authors: Dewez Nicholas P , Xi Weimin , Duffie Duston R , Subedi Mukti R , Chaudhary Tilak , Rideout-Hanzak Sandra , Anoruo Ambrose O , Estabrook Thomas
Published: February 2024

In 2011, the forestlands of Texas were affected by one of the most severe droughts in the state’s history, killing an estimated 65 million trees in the East Texas region. This study uses USDA Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis data and a standardized precipitation-evapotranspiration index to estimate major tree species responses to the 2011 drought in Texas’ four national forests. We used an analysis of variance and a linear mixed-effect model to evaluate factors contributing to tree mortality and growth. We found that tree mortality rates varied greatly during the drought period relative to predrought levels; higher stand age, higher stand density, and higher mean summer temperature contributed to tree mortality volume.

Study Implications: Drought is a recurring disturbance agent and is likely to continue to increase in frequency and severity in the future. We provide an understanding of an exceptional drought as a disturbance agent and its impacts on tree mortality and resistance. The effects of the 2011 drought on national forests in Texas have not previously been evaluated. Texas’ national forests represent over 256,975 ha (635,000 ac) in the state’s eastern region and nearly 10% of all public land in Texas. Our results are useful to decision makers in developing strategies and protecting forestlands in the face of potential future droughts.
Perceived Obstacles in Land Use Change for Hybrid Sweetgum Plantations: Landowner Opinions from the South Central United States
Authors: Lenning Aspen , Joshi Omkar , Will Rodney E
Published: February 2024

Hybrid sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua × L. formosana) has received considerable attention as a potential feedstock for traditional and nontraditional forest-based enterprises due to its fast growth and large specific gravity. However, the perceptions of landowners are important to understand the degree of acceptance concerning land use change to consider this opportunity in the United States. We administered a survey instrument to three thousand landowners representing the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas where hybrid sweetgum plantations would be feasible. A seemingly unrelated regression analysis was used to explore the attributes that may influence the environmental and economic obstacles in land use change for hybrid sweetgum plantations. Study results suggest that landowners who perceived higher importance of marketing aspects of hybrid sweetgum expressed greater economic concerns for land use change. In contrast, those having higher planted pine acres had higher environmental concerns about land use change. Female landowners were more concerned than their male counterparts. Landowners need access to accurate information from their trusted sources to make informed management decisions, especially when making decisions to adopt new opportunities such as hybrid sweetgum.

Study Implications: Study results reveal the need for outreach to landowners in the south central United States, as many were not aware of fast-growing hardwood species such as hybrid sweetgum. Information on growth potential, economics, and management techniques can help facilitate the adoption of hybrid sweetgum. Field visits and peer-to-peer learning facilitated by early adopters can be effective strategies for outreach.
Assessing drivers of sustained engagement in collaborative governance arrangements
Authors: Ambrose Graham , Siddiki Saba
Published: February 2024

The formal engagement of diverse stakeholder groups in policy design and implementation has become a mainstay governance strategy. While much has been learned about collaborative governance arrangements in terms of their structure, processes, and participant dynamics, one particularly salient dynamic has been relatively underexplored: the factors contributing to sustained participation in collaborative venues. Public administration and policy have developed a variety of conceptual theories which draw attention to interpersonal interactions and the ability of stakeholders to garner political wins as important contributing factors to sustained participation. In this article, we test four theoretically rooted hypotheses to investigate stakeholder attendance in the collaborative governance case of an environmental justice council. We analyze council meeting minute data using computational text analysis tools and a Stochastic Actor-Oriented Model to assess: (1) conflict and concord, measured in terms of repeated (dis)agreement with others and (2) interest advancement, or the extent to which a stakeholder makes positive, neutral, and negative comments toward topics which become the council’s annual objectives in relation to an individual’s attendance. Our interpersonal interaction results show that increased positive relationships are associated with increased attendance, and increased negative relationships are associated with decreased attendance, but, for both cases, only when interactions are repeated and not one-off. Our interest advancement results show: (1) an increase in supported annual objectives is associated with decreases in attendance for an individual stakeholder, but (2) increased oppositional and neutral annual topics are associated with a greater likelihood of attendance. This article contributes to existing scholarship on collaborative governance by offering additional insights into individual factors associated with sustained engagement in the collaborative venue. Furthermore, the article offers a generalizable methodological approach for analyzing these dynamics drawing on computational text analysis of meeting minute data.
Perceived transition readiness among adolescents and young adults with neurofibromatosis type 1 and plexiform neurofibromas: a cross-sectional descriptive study
Authors: Siegel Atara , Lockridge Robin , Struemph Kari L , Toledo-Tamula Mary Anne , Little Paige , Wolters Pamela L , Dufek Anne , Tibery Cecilia , Baker Melissa , Wideman Brigitte C , Martin Staci
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic cancer predisposition syndrome that can impact multiple organ systems and is associated with plexiform neurofibroma tumors, requiring care from birth through adulthood. Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with NF1 face several barriers to transition from pediatric to adult care. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess transition readiness in this population and to evaluate relationships between specific NF1 symptoms and transition readiness.

Methods

AYAs (aged 16–24) enrolled in existing studies related to NF1 were eligible. AYAs and their parents completed measures of transition readiness (Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire version 4 [TRAQ-4]), and AYAs also completed a transition readiness interview (UNC TRxANSITION).

Results

Thirty-eight AYAs (mean age = 19.95 ± 2.68 years) participated in the study. Average TRAQ scores indicated that AYAs were still learning Self-Management skills (M = 3.37, SD = 1.08) and Self-Advocacy skills (M = 3.98, SD = 0.67). Older AYAs had higher TRAQ scores for Self-Management (r = 0.70, p < .001) and Self-Advocacy (r = 0.41, p = .011) than younger AYAs. Parents and AYAs had similar TRAQ scores. About one third of AYAs (37.8%, n = 14) expressed uncertainty about how NF1 might affect them in the future. The remaining AYAs mostly expressed concerns regarding tumor growth, pain, or cancer.

Conclusions

In this small study, preliminary findings suggest that AYAs with NF1 express confidence in many areas of transition readiness but continue to require support, particularly with Self-Management skills. Given the gaps in understanding of future health risks, AYAs with NF1 would benefit from early assessment, psychoeducation, and support for transition readiness to adult care.
Topical Review: Getting into the head of youth with chronic pain: how theory of mind deficits may relate to the development and maintenance of pediatric pain
Authors: Nestor Bridget A , Kossowsky Joe , Nelson Sarah M
Published: February 2024

Objective

Theory of mind (ToM) is the ability to understand the thoughts, feelings, and mental states of others and is critical for effective social and psychological functioning. ToM deficits have been associated with various psychological disorders and identified in adult pain populations. For youth with chronic pain, ToM deficits may underlie the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to their experience of pain, but this remains poorly understood.

Methods

This topical review explored the extant literature in the areas of ToM and chronic pain, particularly for pediatric populations, with respect to biological, psychological, and social elements of the biopsychosocial model of pain.

Results

ToM deficits may be present alongside previously identified biological, psychological, and social correlates of pediatric pain, as a vulnerability, mechanism, and/or consequence. Biologically, ToM deficits may relate to cortisol abnormalities and neurobiological substrates of pain processing. Psychologically, ToM deficits may stem from pain-focused cognitions, thus impacting relationships and fueling impairment. Socially, chronic pain may preclude normative development of ToM abilities through social withdrawal, thereby exacerbating the experience of pain.

Conclusion

Taken together, ToM deficits may be associated with increased risk for the development and/or maintenance of pediatric chronic pain, and pediatric chronic pain may similarly confer risk for ToM deficits. Future research should investigate the nature of ToM abilities in youth with chronic pain to test these hypotheses and ultimately inform ToM-focused and pain-based interventions, as this ability has been demonstrated to be modifiable.
Factors Associated With Prolonged Respiratory Virus Detection From Polymerase Chain Reaction of Nasal Specimens Collected Longitudinally in Healthy Children in a US Birth Cohort
Authors: Teoh Zheyi , Conrey Shannon , McNeal Monica , Burrell Allison , Burke Rachel M , Mattison Claire P , McMorrow Meredith , Thornburg Natalie , Payne Daniel C , Morrow Ardythe L , Staat Mary Allen
Published: February 2024

Background

Respiratory viral shedding is incompletely characterized by existing studies due to the lack of longitudinal nasal sampling and limited inclusion of healthy/asymptomatic children. We describe characteristics associated with prolonged virus detection by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in a community-based birth cohort.

Methods

Children were followed from birth to 2 years of age in the PREVAIL cohort. Weekly nasal swabs were collected and tested using the Luminex Respiratory Pathogen Panel. Weekly text surveys were administered to ascertain the presence of acute respiratory illnesses defined as fever and/or cough. Maternal reports and medical chart abstractions identified healthcare utilization. Prolonged virus detection was defined as a persistently positive test lasting ≥4 weeks. Factors associated with prolonged virus detection were assessed using mixed effects multivariable logistic regression.

Results

From a sub-cohort of 101 children with ≥70% weekly swabs collected, a total of 1489 viral infections were detected. Prolonged virus detection was found in 23.4% of viral infections overall, 39% of bocavirus infections, 33% of rhinovirus/enterovirus infections, 14% of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) A infections, and 7% of RSV B infections. No prolonged detection was found for influenza virus A or B, coronavirus 229E or HKU1, and parainfluenza virus 2 or 4 infections. First-lifetime infection with each virus, and co-detection of another respiratory virus were significantly associated with prolonged detection, while symptom status, child sex, and child age were not.

Conclusions

Prolonged virus detection was observed in 1 in 4 viral infections in this cohort of healthy children and varied by pathogen, occurring most often for bocavirus and rhinovirus/enterovirus. Evaluating the immunological basis of how viral co-detections and recurrent viral infections impact duration of virus detection by PCR is needed to better understand the dynamics of prolonged viral shedding.
Appendiceal ganglioneuroma incidentally found during resection of recurrent rectal cancer: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Perez Pachon Mauricio E , Horton Rachel , Rumer Kristen K
Published: February 2024

Ganglioneuromas (GN) are benign neuroblastic tumors that arise from neural crest cells. Since they present with nonspecific symptoms, diagnosis is often incidental. We are reporting a case of an adult appendiceal GN incidentally found during rectal cancer surgery. A 42-year-old male was diagnosed with recurrent rectal cancer after experiencing urinary difficulties and buttock pain. A multiple-stage pelvic exenteration was carried out after neoadjuvant chemotherapy and chemoradiation. Prophylactic appendectomy was done during the course of surgery, and pathology reported an appendix with GN at the distal tip. GN are often found incidentally and rarely cause appendicitis. Depending on their location and size, they might become symptomatic. While there is some controversy on whether surgery is the treatment of choice for all GN, diagnosis is rarely apparent preoperatively, and all appendiceal masses should be resected.