bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Balancing efficacy and computational burden: weighted mean, multiple imputation, and inverse probability weighting methods for item non-response in reliable scales
Authors: Guide Andrew , Garbett Shawn , Feng Xiaoke , Mapes Brandy M , Cook Justin , Sulieman Lina , Cronin Robert M , Chen Qingxia
Published: August 2024

Importance

Scales often arise from multi-item questionnaires, yet commonly face item non-response. Traditional solutions use weighted mean (WMean) from available responses, but potentially overlook missing data intricacies. Advanced methods like multiple imputation (MI) address broader missing data, but demand increased computational resources. Researchers frequently use survey data in the All of Us Research Program (All of Us), and it is imperative to determine if the increased computational burden of employing MI to handle non-response is justifiable.

Objectives

Using the 5-item Physical Activity Neighborhood Environment Scale (PANES) in All of Us, this study assessed the tradeoff between efficacy and computational demands of WMean, MI, and inverse probability weighting (IPW) when dealing with item non-response.

Materials and Methods

Synthetic missingness, allowing 1 or more item non-response, was introduced into PANES across 3 missing mechanisms and various missing percentages (10%-50%). Each scenario compared WMean of complete questions, MI, and IPW on bias, variability, coverage probability, and computation time.

Results

All methods showed minimal biases (all <5.5%) for good internal consistency, with WMean suffered most with poor consistency. IPW showed considerable variability with increasing missing percentage. MI required significantly more computational resources, taking >8000 and >100 times longer than WMean and IPW in full data analysis, respectively.

Discussion and Conclusion

The marginal performance advantages of MI for item non-response in highly reliable scales do not warrant its escalated cloud computational burden in All of Us, particularly when coupled with computationally demanding post-imputation analyses. Researchers using survey scales with low missingness could utilize WMean to reduce computing burden.
Individual and social heterosis act independently in honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies
Authors: Ryals Dylan K , Buschkoetter Amos C , Given J Krispn , Harpur Brock A
Published: August 2024

Heterosis occurs in individuals when genetic diversity, e.g., heterozygosity, increases fitness. Many advanced eusocial insects evolved mating behaviors, including polyandry and polygyny, which increase inter-individual genetic diversity within colonies. The possibility of this structure of diversity to improve group fitness has been termed social heterosis. Neither the independence of individual and social heterosis nor their relative effect sizes have been explicitly measured. Through controlled breeding between pairs of Western honey bee queens (Apis mellifera L.; n = 3 pairs) from two distinct populations, we created inbred colonies with low genetic diversity, hybrid colonies with high heterozygosity, and mixed colonies (combining inbred workers from each population) with low heterozygosity and high social diversity. We then quantified two independent traits in colonies: survival against bacterial challenge and maintenance of brood nest temperature. For both traits, we found hybrid and mixed colonies outperformed inbred colonies but did not perform differently from each other. During immune challenge assays, hybrid and mixed colonies experienced hazard ratios of 0.49 (95% CI [0.37, 0.65]) and 0.69 (95% CI [0.50, 0.96]) compared to inbred colonies. For nest temperatures, hybrid and mixed colonies experienced 1.94 ± 0.97 °C and 2.82 ± 2.46 °C less thermal error and 0.14 ± 0.11 °C2 and 0.16 ± 0.06 °C2 less thermal variance per hour than inbred lines. This suggests social and individual heterosis operate independently and may have similar effect sizes. These results highlight the importance of both inter- and intra-individual diversity to fitness, which may help explain the emergence of polyandry/polygyny in eusocial insects and inform breeding efforts in these systems.
Investigating exceedances of formaldehyde levels and source identification in offices of an academic medical institute
Authors: Chuthong Watcharakorn , Surawattanasakul Vithawat , Sapbamrer Ratana , Sirikul Wachiranun
Published: August 2024

Objectives: To investigate factors associated with indoor formaldehyde levels in office settings within an academic medical institute.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 25 offices (261 workers) at a medical university in Thailand. Questionnaires gathered data on demographics, work patterns, and office equipment usage (printers, photocopiers, air fresheners, liquid paper, glue, cleaning agents, and marker pens). The building environment was assessed by a multidisciplinary team. Formaldehyde levels and relevant parameters (temperature and relative humidity) were measured in each room both indoors and outdoors. A multiple linear regression model investigated the relationship between formaldehyde and office factors, controlling for room conditions.

Results: Median office formaldehyde levels were 442.1 μg/m3 (interquartile range: 343.8-908.7 μg/m3), exceeding World Health Organization and Thai guidelines. Photocopier use was significantly associated with higher levels of indoor formaldehyde (β = .20; 95% CI, 0.30-0.37; P = .02). Air freshener use also showed a significant association (β = .56; 95% CI, 0.30-0.81; P < .001). No correlation was found between the use of liquid paper, glue, printers, cleaning agents, or marker pens and indoor formaldehyde levels.

Conclusions: Indoor formaldehyde levels in these offices exceeded the established guidelines. Use of photocopiers and air fresheners was associated with increased formaldehyde levels. Implementing interventions such as improved ventilation and regular screening is essential for creating healthier office environments.
Plexiform’s perplexities: a tale of two plexiform neurofibromas
Authors: Pedaprolu Aditya Sriharsha , Gattani Rajesh , Jajoo Suhas , Rewale Venkatesh , Deshpande Swati , Chatterjee Priya , Semy Mehak Fayyaz
Published: August 2024

Plexiform neurofibroma (PF) is a rare benign variant belonging to a subtype of neurofibromatosis type 1 that forms bulging or deforming masses arising from the peripheral nerve sheath. These masses involve surrounding connective tissue or dermal layers, leading to multiple cutaneous changes and certain characteristic appearances. It is these appearances that aid in the diagnosis of PF. We have encountered two distinct patients diagnosed with this disorder. While one patient was clinically and pathologically confirmed for PF, the other had no characteristic cutaneous changes. The diagnosis was made with postoperative histopathology and confirmed with an immunohistochemical examination. There are various modalities in the management of PFs, with surgery being a mainstay in the treatment of disfiguring large PFs, especially in resource-restrained settings. In view of high recurrence rates, postoperative clinical follow-up is a must. This paper describes these patients’ typical and atypical clinical presentation and subsequent management.
Pedicled falciform ligament flap use as an alternative surgical technique in peptic ulcer perforation repair: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Paudel Pratiksha , Agrawal Srikant , Khatiwada Bidur , Rai Prahasan , Karki Sijan
Published: August 2024

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) affects ~4 million people globally. Peptic ulcer perforation (PUP) is a serious complication of PUD associated with high mortality and morbidity. Hence, a high index of clinical suspicion is crucial in diagnosing such cases. Here, we present a case of a 19-year-old male who presented with 4 days of severe abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting. On examination, signs of acute abdomen were evident, and an erect chest X-ray confirmed free air under the diaphragm. The patient underwent an emergency midline laparotomy, during which 1000 ml of purulent fluid was evacuated. A perforation measuring 8 × 8 mm2 was repaired using the falciform ligament due to the unavailability of adequate healthy omentum. His postoperative recovery was uneventful. This case report underscores the importance of considering the falciform ligament as a viable and effective alternative for the closure of PUP when the omentum is unavailable.
Identification of biomarkers associated with pathological tumor staging and their utility in the diagnosis and prognosis of prostate cancer
Authors: Xu Shiquan , Shi He , Liu Yiran , Lin Jing , Wu Xia , Lu Ruichun , Fan Yu , Tan Weiqiang
Published: August 2024

Objective

Pathological tumor (pT) staging plays a crucial role in prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis. This study aimed to identify pT stage-associated biomarkers and explored their utility in PCa prognosis.

Methods

GSE69223 was used to identify potential targets differentially expressed between level 2 of pT staging (pT2) and level 3 of pT staging (pT3). Quantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry were performed on tissues from patients with PCa to screen the pT stage-associated targets and to explore the prognostic value of these targets in PCa.

Results

CENPI and SLC38A11 were most significantly upregulated, whereas ANO6 and KANK2 were mostly decreased in pT3 tumors compared with pT2 staging. ANO6 levels were negatively associated with preoperative prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, lymph node staging (N staging), Gleason score, and overall survival (OS); CENPI was positively associated with preoperative PSA levels, N staging, and OS, but was not associated with the Gleason score; SLC38A11 and KANK2 were not associated with OS. ANO6 and KANK2 were correlated with neutrophil markers, whereas CENPI was correlated with macrophage M2 types.

Conclusion

We identified 4 reliable PCa biomarkers associated with pT staging that would be valuable for diagnosing and determining PCa prognosis.
Indigeneity Buried, Then Unearthed, in Mohja Kahf’s “Fayetteville as in Fate” and The Girl in the Tangerine Scarf
Authors: Yandell Kay
Published: August 2024

A conversation with Winona LaDuke allowed Mohja Kahf to realize that Indigenous American decolonial resistance movements persist into our current era. This essay responds to Kahf’s critique of her novel The Girl in the Tangerine Scarf (2006) and investigates some common myths that teach Americans of all backgrounds the unspoken belief that Indigenous American decolonial resistance is ended and that multicultural narratives now bury previously existing Native decolonial narratives. This essay unearths purportedly buried decolonial narratives in Kahf’s novel by reading some of its references to Natives as emblems not only of Native history but also of contemporary Native decolonial survivance and resistance that persist to this day.
Unexpectedly Sudanese Syrians: Issuing passports and the challenges of integration
Authors: Tobin Sarah A , Kanhoush Salam
Published: August 2024

Since the Syrian crisis began more than 10 years ago, over 11 million Syrians have been displaced. By 2015, Sudan hosted a large number of Syrians because it became the only country in the region that did not require visas for them, which is a result of the countries’ migration and foreign policies. For years, the more than 250,000 Syrians in Sudan were treated largely as unbothered “guests”: they were able to live, work, obtain an education, and health care on par with Sudanese without any additional permits or documentation. Most were young, educated men who came as labor migrants and to avoid military conscription in Syria. The Sudanese government further took on the unusual policy of issuing Sudanese passports to these Syrians who were otherwise unable to return, which prompted Syrians to unexpectedly envision and engender their identity as Sudanese, even letting their Syrian passports expire. After the ousting of Al Bashir in 2019, the transitional government changed the policy for Syrians and began requiring permits for residency, work, education, and access to health care. They also systematically revoked and confiscated Sudanese passports held by Syrians. This article examines the case of Syrians in Sudan whose potential durable solution of integration is being unwound by the same state that provided it. Syrians interviewed discuss the socio-political and subjective challenges experienced by this loss. The article concludes with a discussion about the unusualness of this case, especially as it relates to issuing passports with ambiguous promises of integration.
Heart Rate Variability in Military Pilots During Flight: A Scoping Review
Authors: Soares Amanda Brandello Farias , Almeida Marcelo Furtado de , Franchini Emerson , Ferreira Fabrícia Geralda , Campos Fábio Angioluci Diniz
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Piloting an aircraft is a complex multitasking activity that involves managing information in a nonautomatic way and generates a high workload (psychological, cognitive, and physical) for the pilot. The excess of these demands can result in decreased performance and may impair flight safety. Heart rate variability (HRV) has been used in recent studies as a method to investigate operator’s workload in complex environments. This measure can assess the stress and recovery ability of the autonomic nervous system. However, a better understanding of flight influence on the pilot’s autonomic modulation is necessary. Therefore, this scoping review aims to systematically map the studies related to changes in the autonomic modulation in military pilots during flight, in order to characterize their workload at different times and flight profiles.

Materials and Methods

A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE (by PubMed), SCOPUS, and LILACS databases. Recent records (2002–2022) that analyzed HRV in military pilots during flight were included. Meanwhile, studies in which piloting activity was not performed were excluded. The study was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline extension for Scoping Reviews and the Updated Methodological Guidance for the Conduct of Scoping Reviews.

Results

A total of 298 records were obtained, of which 19 were included in the scoping review. The studies analyzed flights performed in high- and low-performance aircrafts, helicopters, and flight simulators, using time domain, frequency domain, and nonlinear HRV indices. Real and simulated flights produced significant autonomic changes. Some flights elicited autonomic nervous system responses that persisted up to 5 h after landing. During real flight, the most sensitive indices for identifying variations in pilot workload were root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats, standard deviation of interbeat interval of normal sinus beat (SDNN), ratio of low-frequency to high-frequency power, and Poincaré plot standard deviation perpendicular to the line of identity (SD1), whereas the interbeat interval (RR), SDNN, SD1, and Poincaré plot standard deviation along the line of identity (SD2) were the most sensitive indices when comparing segments of simulated flight with different levels of difficulty.

Conclusions

This scoping review provided insight into the influence of flight on autonomic modulation in military pilots. Some key themes were highlighted: Increased sympathetic activity during flight, sensibility of different domains of HRV to flight demands, and autonomic changes during recovery time. Future research efforts may allow us to enhance the understanding of pilot’s workload limits and to elucidate the optimal postflight recovery time.
Revealing the chemical structure of the Magellanic Clouds with APOGEE. I. Calculating individual stellar ages of RGB stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud
Authors: Povick Joshua T , Nidever David L , Massana Pol , Tayar Jamie , Olsen Knut A G , Hasselquist Sten , Cioni Maria-Rosa L , Nitschelm Christian , Carrera Ricardo , Choi Yumi , Roman-Lopes Alexandre , Majewski Steven R , Almeida Andrés , Cunha Katia , Smith Verne V
Published: August 2024

Stellar ages are critical for understanding the temporal evolution of a galaxy. We calculate the ages of over 6000 red giant branch stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) observed with SDSS-IV / APOGEE-S. Ages are derived using multiband photometry, spectroscopic parameters ($\rm T_{eff}$, $\log {g}$, [Fe/H], and [$\alpha$/Fe]) and stellar isochrones and the assumption that the stars lie in a thin inclined plane to get accurate distances. The isochrone age and extinction are varied until a best match is found for the observed photometry. We perform validation using the APOKASC sample, which has asteroseismic masses and accurate ages, and find that our uncertainties are $\sim$20 per cent and range from $\sim$1–3 Gyr for the calculated ages (most reliable below 10 Gyr). Here we present the LMC age map as well as the age–radius relation and an accurate age–metallicity relation (AMR). The age map and age–radius relation reveal that recent star formation in the galaxy was more centrally located and that there is a slight dichotomy between the north and south with the northern fields being slightly younger. The northern fields that cover a known spiral arm have median ages of $\gtrsim$2 Gyr, which is the time when an interaction with the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) is suggested to have happened. The AMR is mostly flat especially for older ages although recently (about 2.0–2.5 Gyr ago) there is an increase in the median [Fe/H]. Based on the time frame, this might also be attributed to the close interaction between the LMC and SMC.
The Dark Energy Survey 5-yr photometrically classified type Ia supernovae without host-galaxy redshifts
Authors: Möller A , Wiseman P , Smith M , Lidman C , Davis T M , Kessler R , Sako M , Sullivan M , Galbany L , Lee J , Nichol R C , Sánchez B O , Vincenzi M , Tucker B E , Abbott T M C , Aguena M , Allam S , Alves O , Andrade-Oliveira F , Bacon D , Bertin E , Brooks D , Rosell A Carnero , Castander F J , Desai S , Diehl H T , Everett S , Ferrero I , Friedel D , Frieman J , García-Bellido J , Gaztanaga E , Giannini G , Gruendl R A , Gutierrez G , Hinton S R , Hollowood D L , Honscheid K , James D J , Kuehn K , Lahav O , Lee S , Marshall J L , Mena-Fernández J , Menanteau F , Miquel R , Myles J , Ogando R L C , Palmese A , Pieres A , Malagón A A Plazas , Roodman A , Sanchez E , Cid D Sanchez , Sevilla-Noarbe I , Suchyta E , Swanson M E C , Tarle G , Tucker D L , Walker A R , Weaverdyck N , da Costa L N , Pereira M E S
Published: August 2024

Current and future Type Ia Supernova (SN Ia) surveys will need to adopt new approaches to classifying SNe and obtaining their redshifts without spectra if they wish to reach their full potential. We present here a novel approach that uses only photometry to identify SNe Ia in the 5-yr Dark Energy Survey (DES) data set using the SuperNNova classifier. Our approach, which does not rely on any information from the SN host-galaxy, recovers SNe Ia that might otherwise be lost due to a lack of an identifiable host. We select $2{,}298$ high-quality SNe Ia from the DES 5-yr data set an almost complete sample of detected SNe Ia. More than 700 of these have no spectroscopic host redshift and are potentially new SNIa compared to the DES-SN5YR cosmology analysis. To analyse these SNe Ia, we derive their redshifts and properties using only their light curves with a modified version of the SALT2 light-curve fitter. Compared to other DES SN Ia samples with spectroscopic redshifts, our new sample has in average higher redshift, bluer and broader light curves, and fainter host-galaxies. Future surveys such as LSST will also face an additional challenge, the scarcity of spectroscopic resources for follow-up. When applying our novel method to DES data, we reduce the need for follow-up by a factor of four and three for host-galaxy and live SN, respectively, compared to earlier approaches. Our novel method thus leads to better optimization of spectroscopic resources for follow-up.
Magnetic field, magnetospheric accretion, and candidate planet of the young star GM Aurigae observed with SPIRou
Authors: Zaire B , Donati J -F , Alencar S P , Bouvier J , Moutou C , Bellotti S , Carmona A , Petit P , Kóspál Á , Shang H , Grankin K , Manara C , Alecian E , Gregory S P , Fouqué P ,   the SLS consortium
Published: August 2024

This paper analyses spectropolarimetric observations of the classical T Tauri star (CTTS) GM Aurigae collected with SPIRou, the near-infrared spectropolarimeter at the Canada–France–Hawaii Telescope, as part of the SLS and SPICE Large Programs. We report for the first time results on the large-scale magnetic field at the surface of GM Aur using Zeeman Doppler imaging. Its large-scale magnetic field energy is almost entirely stored in an axisymmetric poloidal field, which places GM Aur close to other CTTSs with similar internal structures. A dipole of about 730 G dominates the large-scale field topology, while higher order harmonics account for less than 30 per cent of the total magnetic energy. Overall, we find that the main difference between our three reconstructed maps (corresponding to sequential epochs) comes from the evolving tilt of the magnetic dipole, likely generated by non-stationary dynamo processes operating in this largely convective star rotating with a period of about 6 d. Finally, we report a $5.5\sigma$ detection of a signal in the activity-filtered radial velocity data of semi-amplitude $110\pm 20$ m s$^{-1}$ at a period of $8.745\pm 0.009$ d. If attributed to a close-in planet in the inner accretion disc of GM Aur, it would imply that this planet candidate has a minimum mass of $1.10 \pm 0.30\, M_\mathrm{Jup}$ and orbits at a distance of $0.082 \pm 0.002$ au.
The role of point defect reconstructions and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in silicate dust preservation
Authors: Campisi Dario , Tielens Alexander G G M , Dononelli Wilke
Published: August 2024

Forsterite is a primary constituent of interstellar dust and planetary systems. It is believed to originate from the outflows of oxygen-rich stars and undergo further processing within the interstellar medium through the action of cosmic rays and shocks. Under these harsh conditions, point defects may form, such as MgO Schottky vacancies. These vacancies can then undergo atom reconstruction as part of a chemical process to maintain the system’s crystalline structure. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitously observed interstellar molecules and are thought to form through gas-phase reactions akin to sooting flames. However, their role and impact on dust stability remain unknown. In this study, we employ an atomistic artificial-intelligence-based method, surrogate machine learning trained directly by density functional theory. Specifically, we utilize gofee (global optimization with first-principles energy expressions) to predict possible reconstructions of MgO vacancies on a crystalline forsterite (010) surface as an important component of interstellar dust and planetary systems. We identify nine possible reconstructions involving the formation of unbound Si and O atoms. We investigate their energy stability and find that the reconstruction of Si–O atoms stabilizes the vacancy by about 0.54 eV. Additionally, if PAHs bind with the unbound O and Si atoms of the vacancy, the vacancy is stabilized by approximately 1.76 eV. We demonstrate that PAHs, along with the reconstruction of unbound atoms on the dust surface, affect the stability of the dust, which might open up avenues for diverse chemistry.
On the potential origin of the circumbinary planet Delorme 1 (AB)b
Authors: Teasdale Matthew , Stamatellos Dimitris
Published: August 2024

Many circumbinary gas giant planets have been recently discovered. The formation mechanism of circumbinary planets on wide orbits is unclear. We investigate the formation of Delorme 1 (AB)b, a $13 \pm 5 \ \mathrm{ M_J}$ planet, orbiting its host binary at 84 au. The planet is accreting while having an estimated age of 40 Myr, which is unexpected, as this process should have ceased due to the dissipation of the protoplanetary disc. Using the smoothed particle hydrodynamics code seren, we model three formation scenarios for this planet. In Scenario I, the planet forms in situ on a wide orbit in a massive disc (by gravitational instability), in Scenario II closer to the binary in a massive disc (by gravitational instability), and in Scenario III much closer to the binary in a less massive disc (by core accretion). Planets in Scenario I stay at the observed separation and have mass accretion rates consistent with observed value, but their final mass is too high. In Scenario II, the planet reaches the observed separation through outward migration or scattering by the binary, and has mass accretion rate comparable to the observed; however, the planet mass is above the observed value. In Scenario III, the planet’s final mass and mass accretion rate are comparable to the observed ones, but the planet’s separation is smaller. We conclude that all models may explain some features of the observations but not all of them, raising questions about how gas is accreted on to the planet from its circumplanetary disc, and the presumed age of the system.
Outward askew endodermal cell divisions reveal INFLORESCENCE AND ROOT APICES RECEPTOR KINASE functions in division orientation
Authors: Rony R M Imtiaz Karim , Campos Roya , Pérez-Henríquez Patricio , Van Norman Jaimie M
Published: August 2024

Oriented cell divisions establish plant tissue and organ patterning and produce different cell types; this is particularly true of the highly organized Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) root meristem. Mutant alleles of INFLORESCENCE AND ROOT APICES RECEPTOR KINASE (IRK) exhibit excess cell divisions in the root endodermis. IRK is a transmembrane receptor kinase that localizes to the outer polar domain of these cells, suggesting that directional signal perception is necessary to repress endodermal cell division. Here, a detailed examination revealed many of the excess endodermal divisions in irk have division planes that specifically skew toward the outer lateral side. Therefore, we termed them “outward askew” divisions. Expression of an IRK truncation lacking the kinase domain retains polar localization and prevents outward askew divisions in irk; however, the roots exhibit excess periclinal endodermal divisions. Using cell identity markers, we show that the daughters of outward askew divisions transition from endodermal to cortical identity similar to those of periclinal divisions. These results extend the requirement for IRK beyond repression of cell division activity to include cell division plane positioning. Based on its polarity, we propose that IRK at the outer lateral endodermal cell face participates in division plane positioning to ensure normal root ground tissue patterning.
Synergistic actions of 3 MYB transcription factors underpin blotch formation in tree peony
Authors: Luan Yuting , Tao Jun , Zhao Daqiu
Published: August 2024

Blotches in floral organs attract pollinators and promote pollination success. Tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa Andr.) is an internationally renowned cut flower with extremely high ornamental and economic value. Blotch formation on P. suffruticosa petals is predominantly attributed to anthocyanin accumulation. However, the endogenous regulation of blotch formation in P. suffruticosa remains elusive. Here, we identified the regulatory modules governing anthocyanin-mediated blotch formation in P. suffruticosa petals, which involves the transcription factors PsMYB308, PsMYBPA2, and PsMYB21. PsMYBPA2 activated PsF3H expression to provide sufficient precursor substrate for anthocyanin biosynthesis. PsMYB21 activated both PsF3H and PsFLS expressions and promoted flavonol biosynthesis. The significantly high expression of PsMYB21 in nonblotch regions inhibited blotch formation by competing for anthocyanin biosynthesis substrates, while conversely, its low expression in the blotch region promoted blotch formation. PsMYB308 inhibited PsDFR and PsMYBPA2 expressions to directly prevent anthocyanin-mediated blotch formation. Notably, a smaller blotch area, decreased anthocyanin content, and inhibition of anthocyanin structural gene expression were observed in PsMYBPA2-silenced petals, while the opposite phenotypes were observed in PsMYB308-silenced and PsMYB21-silenced petals. Additionally, PsMYBPA2 and PsMYB308 interacted with PsbHLH1-3, and their regulatory intensity on target genes was synergistically regulated by the PsMYBPA2-PsbHLH1-3 and PsMYB308-PsbHLH1-3 complexes. PsMYB308 also competitively bound to PsbHLH1-3 with PsMYBPA2 to fine-tune the regulatory network to prevent overaccumulation of anthocyanin in blotch regions. Overall, our study uncovers a complex R2R3-MYB transcriptional regulatory network that governs anthocyanin-mediated blotch formation in P. suffruticosa petals, providing insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying blotch formation in P. suffruticosa.
A microRNA396b-growth regulating factor module controls castor seed size by mediating auxin synthesis
Authors: Wang Xinyu , Yu Song , Li Baoxin , Liu Yueying , He Zhibiao , Zhang Qingzhu , Zheng Zhimin
Published: August 2024

Castor (Ricinus communis L.) is an importance crop cultivated for its oil and economic value. Seed size is a crucial factor that determines crop yield. Gaining insight into the molecular regulatory processes of seed development is essential for the genetic enhancement and molecular breeding of castor. Here, we successfully fine-mapped a major QTL related to seed size, qSS3, to a 180 kb interval on chromosome 03 using F2 populations (DL01×WH11). A 17.6-kb structural variation (SV) was detected through genomic comparison between DL01 and WH11. Analysis of haplotypes showed that the existence of the complete 17.6 kb structural variant may lead to the small seed characteristic in castor. In addition, we found that qSS3 contains the microRNA396b (miR396b) sequence, which is situated within the 17.6 kb SV. The results of our experiment offer additional evidence that miR396-Growth Regulating Factor 4 (GRF4) controls seed size by impacting the growth and multiplication of seed coat and endosperm cells. Furthermore, we found that RcGRF4 activates the expression of YUCCA6 (YUC6), facilitating the production of IAA in seeds and thereby impacting the growth of castor seeds. Our research has discovered a crucial functional module that controls seed size, offering a fresh understanding of the mechanism underlying seed size regulation in castor.
Evaluating the McMahon score for predicting mortality in earthquake-induced rhabdomyolysis: a retrospective study
Authors: Yaman Mahmut , Şen Abdullah , Durgun Hasan Mansur , Eynel Eren , Belek Sema , Ülgüt Şilan Göger , Orak Murat , Güloğlu Cahfer
Published: August 2024

Background

In natural disasters like earthquakes, building collapses can trap individuals, causing crush syndrome and rhabdomyolysis. This life-threatening condition often leads to acute kidney injury. We aimed to determine the effectiveness of the McMahon score in predicting mortality due to rhabdomyolysis in patients affected by the earthquake.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study. In this study, the clinical and laboratory data of patients who presented to the emergency department due to the earthquake were analyzed. The McMahon score was calculated by evaluating factors such as creatine kinase, serum creatinine levels, age, and gender.

Results

The study included 151 patients, of whom 74 (49.0%) were male and 77 (51.0%) were female. In the univariate model, significant (P < .05) effectiveness was observed in differentiating between patients with and without mortality for McMahon score and the risk of acute kidney injury. At a McMahon score cutoff of 6, significant effectiveness was also observed, with an area under the curve of 0.723. At this cutoff value, the sensitivity was 80.0% and the specificity was 64.5%.

Conclusions

The use of the McMahon score in emergency medicine and disaster management plays a crucial role in rapid decision-making processes due to its effectiveness in predicting mortality.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in the Diagnosis and Early Treatment of First-Episode Psychosis
Authors: Moe Aubrey M , Llamocca Elyse , Wastler Heather M , Steelesmith Danielle L , Brock Guy , Oluwoye Oladunni , Fontanella Cynthia A
Published: August 2024

Background

Despite recognition that early intervention for first-episode psychosis (FEP) improves outcomes, Black youth with FEP continue to experience critical disparities in care. A historical lack of scientific focus on racial and ethnic factors in the study of psychosis and scant investigations among publicly insured (ie, Medicaid-enrolled) youth hinder our ability to understand and address factors that contribute to disparities in early FEP care. Strategies for improving FEP services for Black youth are reliant on more precise identification of who faces disparities and when during the early course of illness disparities are experienced.

Study Design

A retrospective longitudinal analysis of Ohio Medicaid claims data was performed for 987 982 youth aged 15–24 years between 2010 and 2020 to examine: (1) the likelihood of FEP diagnosis, (2) the type of psychotic disorder diagnosis received, and (3) receipt of treatment following psychosis onset.

Study Results

Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) youth, relative to non-Hispanic White (NHW) peers, were more likely to be diagnosed with a psychotic disorder and were further more likely to receive a diagnosis of schizophrenia relative to an affective psychotic disorder. In the first year following FEP diagnosis, NHB youth were also less likely to receive psychotherapy than NHW youth; this disparity was no longer present when examined at 2 years following FEP.

Conclusions

In this study, Black youth experienced disparities in both the diagnosis and early treatment of FEP. Additional efforts are needed to understand and address these observed disparities and to promote equitable access to FEP care during the critical early illness phases.
Persistent Gene Flow Suggests an Absence of Reproductive Isolation in an African Antelope Speciation Model
Authors: Wang Xi , Pedersen Casper-Emil Tingskov , Athanasiadis Georgios , Garcia-Erill Genís , Hanghøj Kristian , Bertola Laura D , Rasmussen Malthe Sebro , Schubert Mikkel , Liu Xiaodong , Li Zilong , Lin Long , Balboa Renzo F , Jørsboe Emil , Nursyifa Casia , Liu Shanlin , Muwanika Vincent , Masembe Charles , Chen Lei , Wang Wen , Moltke Ida , Siegismund Hans R , Albrechtsen Anders , Heller Rasmus
Published: August 2024

African antelope diversity is a globally unique vestige of a much richer world-wide Pleistocene megafauna. Despite this, the evolutionary processes leading to the prolific radiation of African antelopes are not well understood. Here, we sequenced 145 whole genomes from both subspecies of the waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus), an African antelope believed to be in the process of speciation. We investigated genetic structure and population divergence and found evidence of a mid-Pleistocene separation on either side of the eastern Great Rift Valley, consistent with vicariance caused by a rain shadow along the so-called “Kingdon’s Line.” However, we also found pervasive evidence of both recent and widespread historical gene flow across the Rift Valley barrier. By inferring the genome-wide landscape of variation among subspecies, we found 14 genomic regions of elevated differentiation, including a locus that may be related to each subspecies’ distinctive coat pigmentation pattern. We investigated these regions as candidate speciation islands. However, we observed no significant reduction in gene flow in these regions, nor any indications of selection against hybrids. Altogether, these results suggest a pattern whereby climatically driven vicariance is the most important process driving the African antelope radiation and suggest that reproductive isolation may not set in until very late in the divergence process. This has a significant impact on taxonomic inference, as many taxa will be in a gray area of ambiguous systematic status, possibly explaining why it has been hard to achieve consensus regarding the species status of many African antelopes. Our analyses demonstrate how population genetics based on low-depth whole genome sequencing can provide new insights that can help resolve how far lineages have gone along the path to speciation.
Family-centered care for newborns: a global perspective and review
Authors: Bellizzi Saverio , Panu Napodano Catello M , Murgia Paola
Published: August 2024

Person-centered models of care built on newborn and family needs and rights, such as nonseparation immediately after birth and during the care process, can address the complex needs of the newborn, family, and health system. This is particularly important in low- and middle-income countries, where cost-effective modalities are highly needed to accelerate the survival of newborn babies. We conducted a systematic review to explore country experiences on implementation and challenges to implement and scale-up family-centered newborn care models of care. MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, and PsycINFO databases were searched to identify studies on patient-centered care and newborns between 1990 and 2023. Studies meeting our predefined inclusion criteria were quality assessed and relevant data extracted. We utilized the World Health Organization framework on integrated people-centered health services to summarize and analyze findings while highlighting patterns. Forty-one studies were included for review (including approximately 60% from low- and middle-income countries). Different research conducted over time highlighted how immediate and uninterrupted skin-to-skin care facilitates a series of critical processes for newborns, parents, and health system, including breastfeeding initiation and exclusivity rates, reduced incidence of post-partum depression, and prevention of infection and hospitalization. Thanks to the close contact of the kangaroo position or skin-to-skin contact, parents recount becoming more and more attached to and familiar with their baby, easily establishing a relationship. Overall, countries could transform the newborn care service in terms of family center care by adopting three simple rules: (i) minimizing mother–child separation; (ii) involving fathers; (iii) empowering parents from the time of birth. A paradigm shift is required to change the conventional model of provider-centric care to one of person-centered neonatal health care. Such an approach is feasible in diverse country settings and should be facilitated through political commitment and policies enabling early focus on the maternal–infant relationship. This could, in turn, help achieve improved dignity of care and help create a more efficient and responsive health system and society.
A Comprehensive Guide to Aortic Atheroma: Delving in Its Causes, Detection, and Treatment
Authors: Agrawal Siddharth Pravin , Desai Dev , Maheta Darshilkumar , Abouarab Ahmed Gamal , Soni Zeal , Frishman William H. , Aronow Wilbert S.
Published: August 2024

Aortic atheroma, a common disease, is characterized by the formation and accumulation of atheromatous plaques within the aorta. The disease manifestations range from asymptomatic conditions to life-threatening complications like stroke or aortic dissection. The severity of this condition necessitates a detailed look at its pathophysiology, diagnostics, and management options. This guide provides a detailed overview of aortic atheroma, its definition, worldwide occurrence, demographic patterns, and underlying pathophysiology. It also elucidates the symptomatology associated with atheromatous changes in the aorta, diagnostic criteria for identifying the disease, and the latest epidemiological data. This article presents current treatment modalities, focusing on preventive and lifestyle approaches to cease further progression of atheromatous disease. It additionally reviews relevant case studies to give practical insights into the challenges faced and consequences of managing aortic atheroma. The in-depth discussion of aortic atheroma improves the perspective to a broader public health relevance, giving importance to the need for continuous improvement in medical practices, and personalized healthcare strategies to reduce risk and better patient outcomes.
Primary Cutaneous Spindle Cell B-Cell Follicle Center Lymphoma Presenting as Long-Standing Plaque of Cicatricial Alopecia: A Case Report With a Comprehensive Review of the Literature
Authors: Bigotto Gianmarco D. , Brunetti Antonio Podo , Guida Stefania , Stabile Giorgio , Rizzo Nathalie , Rongioletti Franco
Published: August 2024

Primary cutaneous spindle B-cell lymphoma is an uncommon subtype of cutaneous lymphoma characterized by a distinct spindled cytology of neoplastic B cells. Despite sharing clinical, histopathological, and phenotypical similarities with primary cutaneous follicle center lymphoma, an indolent form of B-cell lymphoma, it also exhibits certain features akin to primary cutaneous diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Notably, in rare instances, a more aggressive clinical course has been observed. This report details a rare case of primary cutaneous spindle cell B-cell follicle center lymphoma, manifested as a prolonged solitary plaque of cicatricial alopecia. In addition, we provide a comprehensive review of existing cases documented in the literature.
A Retrospective Review: Our Experience With an Adhesive-Based Pigmented Lesion Assay Used to Evaluate Cutaneous Lesions Suspicious for Melanoma
Authors: Van Sambeek Shay , Friedlander Eric , Patino Willmar D.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Being one of the largest dermatology groups in the country with an in-house pathology laboratory, we have seen a significant increase in the number of adhesive-based pigmented lesion assays (ABPLAs) in addition to biopsies and excisions following a moderate-risk or high-risk result with this test.

Objective:

To report our clinical experience and independently confirm that our results with this ABPLA (Pigmented lesion assay, DermTech. San Diego, CA) are consistent with the results of the validation studies completed by the test manufacturer.

Methods:

A retrospective review of our electronic medical records for results of ABPLAs, corresponding histopathologic results and available clinical follow-up, along with their statistical analysis was completed.

Results:

After reviewing our electronic medical records, we found that 893 ABPLAs for pigmented lesions concerning for melanoma were obtained in a period of 14 months. Of the 893 ABPLAs completed, 161 biopsies and excisions were performed after the initial results of these assays. Additional clinical follow-up data were recorded and used for the statistical analysis of the performance and accuracy of this test.

Limitations:

The small number of lesions reported as low risk for melanoma with corresponding histopathologic results limits our evaluation of the performance of this test. In addition, there may have been some melanomas that were not identified because the duration of the clinical follow-up was insufficient or because some patients were lost to follow-up.

Conclusion:

In our experience this ABPLA has a sensitivity of 92.0%, a specificity of 79.5%, a positive predictive value of 16.9%, and a negative predictive value of 99.5% for the detection of melanoma.
Hookworm Folliculitis: Report of Two Cases of Cutaneous Larva Migrans With Histologically Identified Follicular Involvement
Authors: Soto-Moreno Alberto , Muñoz-Barba Daniel , Martín-Torregrosa Daniel , Ramos-Pleguezuelos Francisco Manuel , Santos-Briz Ángel
Published: August 2024

Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is an ectoparasitic infestation predominantly caused by nematodes, specifically Ancylostoma braziliense and Ancylostoma caninum, found in tropical and subtropical regions. Although follicular involvement by the parasite is a rare manifestation, with approximately 20 cases reported in the English literature, its pathogenesis remains underexplored. The present study reports 2 cases of CLM presenting with follicular involvement in patients with pruritic lesions following travel to subtropical areas. The first of them is a 32-year-old woman who developed an abdominal skin lesion subsequent to a trip to Thailand and the second is a 28-year-old woman who exhibited a knee lesion after a volunteer mission in Senegal. Histologic examination revealed characteristic features of CLM, such as nematode larvae traversing the hair follicle. The hookworm larvae were observed creating tunnels within the external root sheath. In addition, they were interfacing with the vitreous layer, sparing the perifollicular connective tissue sheath and the Henle layer, and approaching the vicinity of the hair bulb. The application of skin ultrasound to guide the biopsy facilitated the visualization and identification of the parasite within the follicle in the latter case. This study not only underscores follicular involvement in CLM but also provides insights into its anatomopathological presentation and spread through the hair follicle.
Superficial Wnt-Activated Melanocytic Nevi/Melanocytomas With a Junctional Component: A Case Series
Authors: Ng Spencer , Hall Katie C. , Busam Klaus J. , Lezcano Cecilia , Moy Andrea P. , Pulitzer Melissa , Sriharan Aravindhan , Yan Shaofeng , Linos Konstantinos
Published: August 2024

The conventional morphological characteristics of Wnt-activated deep penetrating/plexiform melanocytomas/nevi (DPN) are those of large spindled or epithelioid melanocytes with distinctive voluminous amphophilic cytoplasm, fine pigmented granules, and surrounding melanophages. The central molecular hallmark is the activation of the Wnt-pathway predominantly driven by mutations in the beta-catenin (CTNNB1) gene. Although typically lacking a junctional component, a lesser-known superficial variant with a junctional component has been identified, which could potentially lead to diagnostic challenges. This study presents a cohort of 11 such cases displaying a junctional component of DPN from 10 patients (5 women and 5 men; age range: 27–78 years; median age: 51 years). The nevi were distributed as follows: 1 conjunctival, 1 scalp, 2 lower limb, and 6 truncal lesions. Eight cases were combined with a conventional nevus, 2 cases displayed pure DPN cytology exhibiting only a junctional element, and 9 cases exhibited some degree of lentiginous architecture. All cases demonstrated a low mitotic index (<1 mitosis/mm2). Immunohistochemistry revealed positive BRAF V600E staining in 8 cases (8/11), whereas all cases tested (11/11) were PRAME negative. Nuclear beta-catenin and LEF1 staining was consistently strong and diffuse with DPN cytology (11/11), along with robust cyclin D1 staining in all cases tested (11/11). By contrast, all 9 conventional nevi showed an absence of nuclear beta-catenin staining (0/9) and weaker, mosaic-type LEF1 and cyclin D1 staining was observed. This study emphasizes the diagnostic challenge these nevi can pose in the absence of a conventional, deeper DPN component, which can potentially be misdiagnosed as melanoma.