bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(094) PREDICTORS OF ABNORMAL DNA FRAGMENTATION INDEX AND SUCCESSFUL PREGNANCY
Authors: Nguyen V , Li M , Fan A , Patel D , Hsieh T
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Semen analysis is primarily used in initial evaluation of male factor infertility but does not provide insight into sperm DNA quality. DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and high DNA stainability (HDS) reflect the percentage of damage to sperm DNA and sperm with immature chromatin.

Objective

We sought to identify clinical predictors of DFI/HDS, and subsequent success of pregnancy.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of all men who underwent DFI/HDS testing for male infertility at a single academic institution between July 2016 and July 2023.

Results

We identified 199 men with median age of 39 years (range: 25-62). 23% of men had a diagnosis of a varicocele. Median partner age was 36 years (range: 20-46). 45%, 36%, and 26% of couples had a history of failed intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), and miscarriage. Median sperm DFI and HDS were 19% (range: 4-72) and 11% (range: 2-40). 65% and 32% of the cohort had abnormal DFI and HDS >15%. Increasing age was a significant predictor of abnormal DFI (37.8 vs 40.1 years, p = 0.01). Men with abnormal HDS were significantly more likely to have a varicocele (18% vs 33%, p = 0.016). Decreased semen morphology was a predictor of abnormal DFI and HDS, though this did not reach statistical significance (4.2% vs 2.4%, p = 0.132 and 3.7% vs 1.7%, p = 0.094; Table 1). 18% of men underwent a testicular sperm retrieval procedure after DFI testing for planned IVF. Of these couples, 31% resulted in successful pregnancy. Among this subset, increased DFI thresholds were correlated to lower success rate of pregnancy (Table 2).

Conclusions

Increased age is a significant predictor of abnormal DFI, whereas concomitant varicocele predicts abnormal HDS. There is also a trend towards increased DFI and lower success rate of pregnancy.

Disclosure

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Boston Scientific.
(114) WITH “STANDARD” VAGINOPLASTY TECHNIQUE, ARE SURGEONS POSITIONING THE NEOCLITORIS IN THE SAME LOCATION IN THE VULVA AS IN A CIS-GENDER WOMAN? RESULTS OF ANATOMIC AND MRI-BASED STUDIES AND, A NOVEL SURGICAL TECHNIQUE FOR ORTHOTOPIC PLACEMENT
Authors: Sandhu S , Dadashian E , Mallavarapu S , Stelmar J , Smith S , Saouaf R , Siedhoff M , Garcia M
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The clitoris is a “defining” element of the vulva. It is a primary source of female sexual pleasure. Its location close to the vaginal opening allows for stimulation during vaginal-receptive intercourse. To date, the only described vaginoplasty techniques anchor the newly constructed neoclitoris to the anterior aspect of the penile-corporal stump. We questioned whether this location is orthotopic relative to cis-gender women.

Objective

1. To measure the location of the glans clitoris, relative to boney landmarks. 2. Describe our technique for orthotopic positioning of the neoclitoris during vaginoplasty.

Methods

I. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans of 25 cis-gender women’s pelvises (all with otherwise normal genital anatomy; women positioned flat) were reviewed in A/P and sagittal planes. 12/25 were in cis-women age < 40; 13/25 in women age > 40. The clitoris-shaft and glans, urethra all elements of the pubic symphysis, were identified by a specialized MRI-radiologist. II. We describe our technique for anchoring the neoclitoris in transgender women undergoing vaginoplasty in the correct anatomic position.

Results

In the flat/supine position during the MRI scans, the glans clitoris was identified superficial to (overlying) the pubic symphysis, at midline. The average distance between the center of glans-clitoris to the inferior edge of the pubic symphysis was 19.6 ± 3.1 mm (range: 13.5-25 mm). (Figure 1) This distance did not differ statistically across age groups (p = 0.91) Our technique (Fig. 2): We now anchor the constructed neoclitoris glans at midline, 20 mm anterior to the inferior-edge of the pubic symphysis. To do this, we bluntly-dissect a 1.5 cm 2 midline-window in the dorsal neurovascular bundle (DNVB), to anchor the neoclitoris-glans to periosteum.

Conclusions

To date, no publication has described positioning the neoclitoris glans anywhere but to the corporal stump. This location is not orthotopic relative to cis-women, because, anatomically, the penile corporal stump is located posterior to the inferior edge of pubic symphysis. The approach we describe is orthotopic, and, we believe, improves vaginoplasty cosmesis and female sexual pleasure.

Disclosure

No.
(128) CORRELATION BETWEEN BIOPSY FREQUENCY AND REDUCED SEXUAL FUNCTION IN PROSTATE CANCER PATIENTS UNDER ACTIVE SURVEILLANCE: A PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY
Authors: Cortizas EM , Angulo-Llanos L , Szczotka ZO , Williams AD , Guerard T , Punnen S , Masterson TA
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Prostate cancer patients under active surveillance (AS) frequently undergo repeated biopsies to monitor disease progression. While this approach aims to delay or avoid radical treatments, the cumulative effects of multiple biopsies on erectile function and overall patient-reported outcomes (PROs) remains unexplored.

Objective

This study aims to determine a correlation between biopsy frequency and reduced sexual function, as well as deteriorated PROs in patients on AS for low-grade prostate cancer.

Methods

We conducted an analysis on results obtained from two separate prospective, single-institution, single-arm, non-treatment trials: MAST (NCT02242773) and MDSelect (NCT04240327). Both studies involved patients newly or previously diagnosed with low-grade prostate cancer (Gleason grade 2 or less) who were monitored via active surveillance. Participants completed the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) survey before their initial diagnostic or baseline biopsy. Patients were followed for a maximum of 2 years, with repeated surveys conducted at 1-year intervals prior to each repeat biopsy. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the correlation between the number of biopsies and changes in mean EPIC sexual and hormonal domain scores using the ANOVA test, with significance set at a p-value of <0.05.

Results

To date, 226 participants enrolled in the studies have followed or are currently following an active surveillance regimen. These participants were categorized based on the number of biopsies they underwent into three groups: Group A with 1 biopsy (n = 20), Group B with 2 biopsies (n = 98), and Group C with 3 biopsies (n = 108). Participants in Group C exhibited a significant reduction in EPIC sexual and hormonal domain scores compared to those in Groups A and B. Regression analysis confirmed that a higher number of biopsies is an independent predictor of worsening sexual function and PROs.

Conclusions

Preliminary findings suggest that an increased number of biopsies in prostate cancer patients on AS are associated with a reduction in sexual function and a decline in PROs. Future research should explore strategies to minimize biopsy-related effects to quality of life while maintaining effective disease surveillance. Further analysis will be conducted as additional patients reach their follow-up milestones.

Disclosure

Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: NIH.

Clarification: Industry funding only - investigator initiated and executed study.

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Bio-Reference Laboratories.
(134) AM I NORMAL? EJACULATE VOLUME NOMOGRAMS FROM > 60 000 INDIVIDUALS
Authors: Fernandez A , Balakrishnan AS , Belarmino A , Li KD , Bowman M , Lindsey J , Kentfield SA , Civello D , Breyer BN , Smith JF
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Male enhancement supplement companies have marketed ejaculate volume as a measure of virility and self-worth. Current reference values for semen volume are based on the World Health Organization’s assessment of 3586 semen samples (Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen, 6th edition). The current study seeks to define parameters for “normal” ejaculate volume through the analysis of semen samples from over 60 000 individuals.

Objective

To characterize the distribution of ejaculated seminal volume in adults of varying age and abstinence time.

Methods

This IRB-approved study included patients obtaining a CLIA-accredited semen analysis (SA) using a mail-in test system developed by Fellow Health, Inc. (San Leandro, California). Age and abstinence time were assessed by self-report on surveys administered at the time of semen sample collection. Samples from individuals <18 years of age and duplicate SAs from one individual were excluded. Mean ejaculate volumes were compared between age groups or abstinence-time groups using Welch’s t-test. Given the high number of samples, a p value of <0.01 was considered significant.

Results

Of 60 823 individuals, the mean ejaculated seminal volume was 3.4 ml, with median volume 3.1 ml, interquartile range 2.2, 4.3 ml, max 14.5 ml, and standard deviation 1.7 ml (Fig. 1A). The ejaculate volume distribution is skewed right, with some individuals demonstrating very high volumes. Older age was associated with lower volume ejaculates, with mean ejaculate volume 3.6 ml in individuals aged 18-30 versus mean 2.6 ml in those aged > = 51 (p = 1.0E-132) (Fig. 1B). Increased abstinence time was associated with increased seminal volume, with abstinence of 12-24 and 36-48 hours resulting in mean volumes of 2.6 versus 3.4 ml, respectively (p = 1.0E-46) (Fig. 1C). Average ejaculate volumes were not significantly different among groups abstaining for >84 hours.

Conclusions

We define “normal” seminal volume distribution based on over 60 000 men stratified by age and abstinence. Ejaculate volume decreases with older age and increases with abstinence time, plateauing in the 84-96 hour abstinence timeframe.

Disclosure

Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Fellow Health, Inc.

Clarification: Industry funding only - investigator initiated and executed study.

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Fellow Health, Inc.
Comparison of organism recovery and staining properties for 3 methods of Gram stain preparation
Authors: Pisahl Audrey , Timmons Martha , Criswell Sheila
Published: December 2024

Background

One possible way to improve accuracy of blood culture Gram stain analyses is increasing the concentration of organisms on the slide prepared from the blood culture broth.

Methods

From each positive blood culture bottle, 1 direct smear, a 1-drop concentrated preparation, and 1 cytospin/cytofuge preparation were Gram stained and evaluated. There were 2 evaluators who ranked the 3 preparations from most to fewest organisms seen. Each preparation was also scored as acceptable or unacceptable for both organism and background stain quality.

Results

The 1-drop slide exhibited the highest concentration of organisms compared with both the cytospin and direct smear but presented frequent difficulties with interpretation of Gram staining acceptability with both the background and the organisms. Although cytospin preparations are known to concentrate liquid specimens, the current study found no enrichment of microorganisms over the direct smear preparation. The cytospin was, however, advantageous for enhancing organism morphology by creating a monolayer of elements and reducing background artifacts.

Conclusion

The 1-drop preparation is simple, inexpensive, and effective at increasing organism concentration for analysis, making it a good option when processing culture bottles with low organism loads, but more investigation into methods of improving stain quality is necessary.
Harassment and Public Music Theory
Authors: Lavengood Megan L
Published: December 2024

A sense of community, such as the community of a small academic field, encourages collegial behavior in conversations with one another. Individuals without a connection to their addressee may more easily speak and act without empathy; they may feel there is little consequence for simply letting loose. Public music theory in online spaces will attract more harassment than traditional academic scholarship. The degree of the harassment will vary, and can be mild enough for authors to brush off, but sustained or egregious harassment can lead to self-censorship, wherein individuals choose not to engage in public forums so that they can avoid these antagonistic encounters. But with the right kind of preparation and support, music theorists can ensure the reward outweighs the risk.
Financial challenges of being on long-term, high-cost medications
Authors: Elshiekh Cleopatra , Rudà Roberta , Cliff Edward R Scheffer , Gany Francesca , Budhu Joshua A
Published: December 2024

The isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) inhibitor, vorasidenib, may offer a promising new treatment option for patients with IDH-mutant gliomas. However, the indefinite nature of this targeted therapy raises significant financial concerns. High costs of targeted cancer therapies, often exceeding $150 000 annually, contribute to financial toxicity, characterized by medical debt, income loss, and psychological stress, and place stress on health systems. This review analyzes the drug approval and pricing mechanisms in various countries and their impact on healthcare costs and patient access, focusing specifically on the impacts in neuro-oncology. The United States employs a market-driven approach resulting in higher drug prices, while most countries, such as the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Japan, South Africa, and Brazil, use negotiated pricing and health technology assessment to manage costs. The financial burden of expensive medications affects patient adherence and quality of life, with many cancer patients facing substantial out-of-pocket expenses and potential treatment abandonment, and many more unable to access these drugs altogether. Vorasidenib’s introduction, while potentially improving patient outcomes, may exacerbate financial toxicity unless mitigated by patient access programs and cost-management strategies. As neuro-oncology treatment paradigms evolve, understanding the economic implications of new therapies is essential to ensure equitable access and optimize patient care.
Measuring Cigarette and E-Cigarette Use Over Time Among LGBT+ Youth and Young Adults Using a Repeat Cross-Sectional Survey, 2022–2024
Authors: Kierstead Elexis C , Dimaya Brenda , Palmerini Maureen , Bayacal Gabrielle C , Hair Elizabeth C
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and other minority sexual orientation and gender minority (LGBT+) individuals in the United States use tobacco products more than their heterosexual and cisgender peers. Although existing literature identifies this relationship, more research using recent, national data from a large sample is needed to better examine trends over time.

Aims and Methods

A repeat cross-sectional survey of approximately n = 300 youth and young adults aged 15–24 was fielded weekly from October 2022 to June 2024, resulting in a total sample of N = 25 675. This sample was used to examine cigarette and e-cigarette use over time among LGBT+ and non-LGBT+ youth and young adults. Cigarette and e-cigarette use was also examined by specific sexual orientation and gender identity, using the aggregated sample.

Results

From October 2022 to June 2024, cigarette and e-cigarette use were consistently higher among LGBT+ youth and young adults, compared to their cisgender and heterosexual peers. Compared to heterosexual young people, gay/lesbian and bisexual young people reported higher cigarette and e-cigarette use. Male-identifying individuals reported the highest cigarette use, while female young people reported the highest e-cigarette use. Transgender and gender-diverse individuals reported lower cigarette and e-cigarette use than cisgender young people.

Conclusions

Tobacco use disparities persist among LGBT+ youth and young adults. Sexual minority respondents saw elevated risk of tobacco use, while gender minority youth saw lower rates of tobacco use, although prevalence remains high. Future research should continue to investigate LGBT+ tobacco use using national surveillance methods. Effective programs for tobacco prevention and cessation are necessary to advance health equity among LGBT+ youth and young adults.

Implications

This study finds persistently elevated tobacco use among LGBT+ youth and young adults over a 2-year period, highlighting the importance of continued tobacco use surveillance, as well as the development of programmatic interventions to reduce LGBT+ tobacco use. These analyses also inform future work further investigating differences in tobacco use by sexual orientation and gender identity among young people. This work provides a call to action to focus efforts on reducing tobacco use among LGBT+ youth, improving the long-term health of this population, and increasing health equity.
Use of anthropogenic landscapes in a wild Columba livia (Rock Dove) population
Authors: Smith William J , Portugal Steven J , Jezierski Michał T
Published: December 2024

Despite the role of many domestic animals as model organisms, our understanding of their undomesticated conspecifics is comparatively poor. This limits our ability to infer the eco-evolutionary context of phenomena studied in the laboratory and to explore domestication. The domestic pigeon’s wild form is the Rock Dove (Columba livia). By studying 5 global positioning system–tagged wild Rock Doves in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, we present the first individual-level assessment of undomesticated Rock Dove movements, revealing extensive use of anthropogenic habitats in both a roosting and foraging context. This association with humans provides tantalizing opportunities for research into the pre-domestication human–pigeon relationship. More generally, this work highlights the value of researching laboratory model species in nature.
Discovery of 4-(2-phenylethynyl) benzoic acid as a potential potent chemical pruner
Authors: Fang Pingping , Li Xiaofang , Li Mingxuan , Shi Zhen , Cheng Yusu , Shen Jiazhong , Zhang Chuanqing , Sun Ting , Ning Kang , Wu Xinyang , Fang Dong , Xu Pei
Published: December 2024

Rocketing labor cost is a major challenge threatening agricultural sustainability and food security worldwide. The replacement of manual pruning of horticultural plants with chemical pruning has long been a goal for saving cost and reducing virus spreading. Here, guided by the structure–function relationship of allelochemical benzoic acid derivatives, we have identified 4-(2-phenylethynyl)-benzoicacid (PEBA) as a highly bioactive compound. PEBA arrested tomato seed germination at a concentration as low as 0.5 μM, and effectively suppressed lateral branching at 10–100 μM. In field conditions, a foliar spraying of 25 μM PEBA altered tomato plant architecture by repressing emergence and elongation of lateral buds, without significantly affecting plant growth and final fruit yield. Moreover, PEBA could also inhibit seed germination in cereals, albeit at a lower efficacy. The application of 500 μM and 750 μM PEBA profoundly curbed preharvest sprouting in wheat and rice. Acute toxicity analysis using silkworm and Trichogramma chilonis revealed that PEBA posed a low risk of toxicity. The persistence analysis further indicated that residue levels of PEBA in various plant organs were very low following applications. The inhibitory effect of PEBA on tomato seed germination was associated with the suppression of GA1 accumulation and reactive oxygen species generation, while its effect on lateral bud outgrowth were related to perturbations in the plant hormones and the modulation of genes involved in secondary metabolism and those encoding ABC transporters. Collectively, our findings demonstrate the potential of PEBA as a potent plant growth regulator with significant value for chemical pruning.
The transcription factor TGA2 orchestrates salicylic acid signal to regulate cold-induced proline accumulation in Citrus
Authors: Xiao Wei , Zhang Yang , Wang Yue , Zeng Yike , Shang Xiangming , Meng Lin , Zhang Yu , Fang Tian , Xiao Peng , Qu Jing , Wang Yilei , Wang Min , Li Chunlong , Liu Ji-Hong
Published: December 2024

Plants subjected to cold stress have been observed to accumulate proline, but the underlying regulatory mechanism remains to be elucidated. In this study, we identified a pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase (P5CS)-encoding gene (CtrP5CS1) from trifoliate orange (Citrus trifoliata L.), a cold-hardy citrus species, as a critical gene for cold-induced proline accumulation. CtrTGA2 bound directly to the TGACG motif of the CtrP5CS1 promoter and activated its expression. Moreover, CtrTGA2 functioned positively in cold tolerance via modulation of proline synthesis by regulating CtrP5CS1 expression. Up-regulation of CtrP5CS1 and CtrTGA2 under cold stress was dependent on salicylic acid (SA) biosynthesis. CtrTGA2 directly regulated the expression of CtrICS1, a gene encoding isochorismate synthase (ICS) involved in SA biosynthesis, forming a positive feedback loop to intensify the CtrTGA2-mediated transcriptional activation of CtrP5CS1. The cold-induced SA receptor NONEXPRESSOR OF PATHOGENESIS-RELATED GENES3 (CtrNPR3) interacted with CtrTGA2 to inhibit its transcriptional activation activity; however, the inhibition was released by SA. Our results uncover the CtrTGA2-CtrP5CS1/CtrICS1 regulatory module that orchestrates the SA signal to regulate proline synthesis, giving important insights into the transcriptional mechanism underlying proline accumulation in plants under cold stress.
Incident characteristics of fatal forcible entry warrant raids in the USA (2010–6)
Authors: Perez Nicholas M , Whitehouse Emilie
Published: December 2024

Following the police killings of Breonna Taylor, Amir Locke, and others, forcible entry warrant raids (FEWRs) by law enforcement have become especially controversial in the USA. Despite the growing debate over this law enforcement practice, there is little available data, and consequently, a lack of empirical research related to FEWRs. The current study utilizes a nationwide public database of fatal FEWR incidents in the USA from 2010 to 2016 to examine nationwide trends of fatal FEWRs, civilian and officer characteristics, warrant characteristics, situational characteristics, and the outcomes of investigations and civil lawsuits following fatal FEWRs. Results suggest that, while fatal FEWRs were common between 2010 and 2016, Black and African American civilians were overrepresented in the data. Results suggest that fatal FEWRs most frequently occurred during the execution of drug warrants and about one-quarter resulted in the death of a civilian who was not armed with a firearm. Most of these cases resulted in no charges filed against the officers, but approximately one-quarter resulted in a civil lawsuit. This examination advances the limited research on FEWRs, providing greater detail on the common incident characteristics of these raids, along with the individuals and communities that are frequently impacted by them.
The Securitization Flash Flood
Authors: Srinivasan Kandarp
Published: December 2024

This paper highlights a connection between the stability of a bank’s funding sources (debt claims) and the liquidity of assets backing those claims. Using a natural experiment and hand-collected data on over 5,000 repurchase contracts, the paper shows that a shock that increased the liquidity of private-label MBS resulted in a greater proportion of MBS financed on balance sheet by unstable funding sources (short-term repo debt). This finding is relevant to a recent banking crisis (the SVB collapse in March 2023) in which losses on a bank’s liquid assets led to a run by uninsured (“flighty”) depositors financing those assets. (JEL G2, K2)
Experiences with patient-initiated follow-up supported by asynchronous telemedicine in spondyloarthritis: a mixed methods study
Authors: Smits Marius L , Hermans Kasper , Boonen Annelies , Vonkeman Harald E , Webers Casper , van Tubergen Astrid
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the experiences of patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA) and their healthcare providers (HCPs) with patient-initiated follow-up (PIFU) supported by asynchronous telemedicine (TM) compared with their past experiences with usual care, and to identify prerequisites for sustainable implementation of PIFU/TM.

Methods

Individual, semi-structured interviews were conducted with purposefully selected patients (n = 21) and HCPs (n = 9) who previously participated in the ‘TeleSpA’ randomised controlled trial and thematically analysed. PIFU/TM consisted of a once-yearly pre-planned physical visit with in-between remote monitoring at 6 months. Additionally, 13 HCPs completed a quantitative survey, which was analysed descriptively.

Results

Most patients and HCPs found PIFU/TM acceptable, given the presence of sufficient health literacy, digital literacy and motivation. Most patients felt no burdensome changes to their personal responsibility, and both in-person and remote communication between stakeholders ran smoothly. Advantages for patients included time savings, and improvements in disease insight and self-efficacy. Some HCPs experienced increased flexibility in their daily planning. Pivotal prerequisites for sustainable implementation were adequate infrastructure to conduct ad hoc diagnostic tests, assured rapid access to the outpatient clinic when necessary, availability of technical and logistical support, and a user-friendly monitoring tool integrated with existing hospital information systems. Fine-tuning the design and delivery of questionnaires as part of TM is an opportunity for future research.

Conclusion

PIFU/TM was perceived as an acceptable approach for the follow-up of motivated patients with SpA with adequate health literacy and digital literacy. Preserved accessibility to the outpatient clinic and availability of ancillary support are essential for its sustainable implementation.
Assessment of external occupational exposure of radiation workers in Jiangsu Province, 2019–2022
Authors: Chen Wei , Wei Xindi , Miao Yuji , Zhou Yuanyuan , Fan Xiangyong , Wang Jin
Published: December 2024

This article analyzes the external occupational radiation exposure distribution and trends among radiation workers in Jiangsu Province. The results show that the total annual collective effective dose for radiation workers in Jiangsu Province from 2019 to 2022 was 24.82 person·Sv, with an average annual effective dose of 0.34 mSv over the 4-y period. The average annual effective dose exhibited an initial increase followed by a subsequent decrease, with statistically significant differences (P < .001) between different years. In the medical uses, nuclear medicine and interventional radiology had higher average annual effective doses compared to other categories, at 0.42 and 0.38 mSv, respectively (P < .05). In industrial applications, accelerator operation and industrial testing workers had higher average annual effective doses compared to others, at 0.32 and 0.31 mSv, respectively (P < .001). Among different levels of medical institutions, secondary hospitals had the highest average annual effective dose (0.38 mSv, P < .001). Overall, the average annual effective dose for radiation workers in Jiangsu Province remained relatively low from 2019 to 2022, meeting national standards. However, special attention should still be given to radiation workers in nuclear medicine, interventional radiology, industrial testing, and accelerator operation.
Assessment of thyroid dose in orthopantomogram imaging with different thyroid shield materials: a Monte Carlo simulation study
Authors: Vafapour Hassan , Panah Soraya , Rafiepour Payman , Panahi Seyedeh Roghayeh
Published: December 2024

Radiation protection in dental radiography can be achieved by adjusting the image field size, exposure, and filtration parameters, and using protective lead shields. The aim of this study is to assess the radiation dose delivered to the thyroid in a phantom irradiated by an orthopantomogram (OPG) system using Geant4 simulation toolkit. Recently, researchers have been trying to find an alternative material to the lead thyroid shield so that the OPG image has minimal metal artifacts. In this study, several materials were introduced as alternatives to lead thyroid shields. The results showed that Pb, Bi, Bi2O3, stainless steel, polyurethane-Bi2O3 (50%–50% mixture), and polyurethane-W (50%–50% mixture) shields provide a thyroid dose reduction of up to 12.0%, 12.3%, 12.0%, 11.6%, 11.8%, and 12.0%, respectively. For the truncated thyroid shields, these values are up to 10.5%, 10.3%, 10.3%, 9.80%, 10.0%, and 10.1%, respectively. Therefore, Bi and Bi2O3 can be suitable alternatives to lead thyroid shields.
Community-Engaged Scholarship and Its Implications for Public Sociology and the Discipline
Authors: London Rebecca A , Hartmann Douglas , Plankey-Videla Nancy , Borland Elizabeth , Glasser Carol
Published: December 2024

This article provides an overview of research, practice, and theory in community-engaged scholarship as a means to expand our understanding of public sociology and its broader implications for sociology as a discipline. We begin with an overview of community-engaged scholarship and how it is related to and distinct from public sociology. Five main principles of community-engaged work are highlighted: (1) reciprocity and mutual benefit; (2) ethics and knowledge production; (3) social action and change, typically from a social justice orientation; (4) multidisciplinary and mixed methods approaches; and (5) varied types of organizational partners. We elaborate these principles using illustrations from the Spivack-Community Action Research Initiative (CARI) grants funded by the American Sociological Association, which demonstrate the range of social problems that are addressed with community engagement. We conclude by delineating the importance of engagement for the ongoing development and revitalization of sociology and the institutional challenges that must be overcome for this approach to thrive in the discipline.
Discordance Down Under: Combining phylogenomics & fungal symbioses to detangle difficult nodes in a diverse tribe of Australian terrestrial orchids
Authors: O’Donnell Ryan P , Wong Darren C J , Phillips Ryan D , Peakall Rod , Linde Celeste C
Published: December 2024

Orchid mycorrhizal fungi (OMF) associations in the Orchidaceae are thought to have been a major driver of diversification in the family. In the terrestrial orchid tribe Diurideae, it has long been hypothesised that OMF symbiont associations may reflect evolutionary relationships among orchid hosts. Given that recent phylogenomic efforts have been unable to fully resolve relationships among subtribes in the Diurideae, we sought to ascertain whether orchid OMF preferences may lend support to certain phylogenetic hypotheses. First, we used phylogenomic methods and Bayesian divergence time estimation to produce a genus-level tree for the Diurideae. Next, we synthesised decades of published fungal sequences and morphological/germination data to identify dominant fungal partners at the genus scale and perform ancestral state reconstruction to estimate the evolutionary trajectory of fungal symbiont shifts. Across the tribe, we found phylogenomic discordance stemming from incomplete lineage sorting. However, our results also revealed unprecedented phylogenetic niche conservatism of fungal symbionts within the tribe: entire genera, subtribes, and even groups of related subtribes associate with only a single fungal family, suggesting that fungal symbiont preferences in the Diurideae do indeed reflect phylogenetic relationships among orchid hosts. Moreover, we show that these relationships have evolved directionally from generalist associations with multiple fungal families towards more specific partnerships with only one fungal family. Orchid symbiont preferences here provide new insights into the placement of several groups with longstanding phylogenetic uncertainty. In spite of complex evolutionary histories, host-symbiont relationships can be used to help detangle alternative phylogenetic hypotheses.
A Prescription Produce Program integrating lifestyle behavior counseling and health education: A program description and evaluation
Authors: Battle Kimberly , Falls Katherine , Regal Rachel , Mansion Natalie , Williams Jonathan , Lingo Erin , Wendte Jered M , Waters Leland , Prom-Wormley Elizabeth , Judd Suzanne , Diallo Ana F
Published: December 2024

Prescription Produce Programs (PPPs) are increasingly being used to address food insecurity and healthy diets. Yet, limited evidence exists on the effectiveness of integrating lifestyle counseling within a PPP to promote dietary and health behaviors. To describe the implementation of a 6- or 12-week PPP integrating lifestyle counseling to low-income adults. The PPP was implemented as part of a wellness and care coordination program and included: (i) a screening for social needs, (ii) PPP health education and lifestyle counseling visits, and (iii) distribution of produce. We conducted a pre- and post-descriptive analysis. We also reported a case study illustrating the PPP implementation and a Strengths/Weaknesses/Opportunities/Threats analysis. Fifty-three participants (85% Black American, 64% female, mean age: 66 years) completed the PPP. Food insecurity scores significantly decreased between pre- and post-enrollment in the PPP (P = .002). Compared with pre-enrollment, participants who completed the PPP reported an increase in the frequency of fruits and vegetables intake (χ2 = 12.6, P = .006). A majority of the participants (77%) reported setting and achieving at least one health-related goal by the end of the program. A strength of the PPP included the long-standing relationship with community partners. Weaknesses included the survey burden, the need for additional personnel, and the need for a sustained funding source. Integrating lifestyle counseling within a PPP can promote food security and a healthy diet. Future research is warranted using rigorous research methods, including randomization and a comparison group.
Mathematical modelling and covariational reasoning in college students: the case of modelling the cooling phenomenon with a function
Authors: Jiménez Fátima Reyna Sandoval , Sierra Gustavo Martínez
Published: December 2024

This research aims to explore the relationships between the mathematical modelling process from a realistic perspective and the levels of covariational reasoning through an instrumental case study with three college students while modelling the phenomenon of cooling. To achieve such an aim, we have relied on a theoretical framework of mathematical modelling that describes the typical ways of solving modelling tasks step by step, and a framework that describes covariational reasoning by levels of sophistication. We designed an instructional module for the participants in two parts: the first part was about analyzing patterns of change in functions and the second part was about solving a modelling task, where they were asked to find a function that models the behaviour of cooling water based on their own measuring instruments of time and temperature variables, stopwatch and thermometer. The results show that the cooling of the water modelling task, together with the measurement tools and the instructional module part about patterns of change, favoured covariational reasoning at the highest levels and that the participants’ covariational reasoning was necessary for the modelling task.
Optimization of concentrations and exposure durations of commonly used positive controls in the in vitro alkaline comet assay
Authors: Tekneci Seda İpek , Üstündağ Aylin , Duydu Yalçın
Published: December 2024

Endogenous and exogenous factors cause DNA damage through chemical changes in the genomic DNA structure. The comet assay is a versatile, rapid, and sensitive method for evaluating DNA integrity at the individual cell level. It is used in human biomonitoring studies, the identification of DNA lesions, and the measurement of DNA repair capacity. Despite its widespread application, variations between studies remain problematic, often due to the lack of a common protocol and appropriate test controls. Using positive controls is essential to assess inter-experimental variability and ensure reliable results. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is the most commonly used positive control, while potassium bromate (KBrO₃), methyl methanesulfonate (MMS), ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS), N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU), and etoposide are used less frequently. However, differences in concentrations and exposure durations prevent the confirmation of test method efficacy. This study investigates the dose–response relationship for H2O2, KBrO3, MMS, EMS, ENU and etoposide in the comet assay for 30 and 60-minute exposure durations in 3T3 cell lines. Accordingly recommended concentrations and exposure durations were found to be 50 μM 30 minutes (H2O2); 500 μM 60 min. (MMS); 10 μM 30 min. (Etoposide); 0.2 mM 30 min. and 2 mM 60 min. (EMS); 2 mM 30 min. (ENU); 500 μM 30 min. and 50 μM 60 min. (KBrO3). Our findings will contribute to reducing inter-laboratory variability by offering guidance on selecting doses and exposure durations for positive controls in the in vitro alkaline comet assay.
Cancer-associated fibroblasts affect breast cancer cell sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents by regulating NRBP2
Authors: Jin Xiaoyan , Chen Yong , Wang Gui
Published: December 2024

Objective

To uncover the role of nuclear receptor-binding protein 2 (NRBP2) in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and CAFmediated TAM sensitivity in breast cancer (BC).

Methods

10 pairs of matched tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues were collected and CAFs and normal fibroblasts (NFs) were isolated. CCK-8 as well as colony formation assays showed the effects on cell growth. qPCR and Immunoblot showed the expression of NRBP2 in CAFs. FCM as well as Immunoblot assays exhibited the effects on cell apoptosis. Immunoblot further confirmed the mechanism.

Results

CAFs contributed to BC cell growth. In addition, the expression of NRBP2 is downregulated in CAFs. NRBP2 suppressed CAF-induced resistance in BC cells. Further, NRBP2 expression in CAF group increased TAM induced apoptosis. Mechanically, NRBP2 in CAFs inhibited Akt pathway, therefore suppressed resistance in BC cells.

Conclusion

CAFs affected BC cell sensitivity to TAM by regulating NRBP2.
SARM1 in the pathogenesis of immune-related disease
Authors: Ye Yihan , Song Fuyong
Published: December 2024

Background

Sterile alpha and toll interleukin receptor motif-containing protein 1 (SARM1) are primarily expressed in the mammalian nervous system, with their presence in neurons being associated with mitochondrial aggregation. SARM1 functions as a mediator of cell death and morphological changes, while also regulating Waller degeneration in nerve fibers and influencing glial cell formation.

Purpose

Recent reports demonstrate SARM1 serves as a connector in the Toll-like receptor (TLR) pathway and plays a role in regulating inflammation during periods of stress such as infection, trauma, and hypoxia. These findings offer new insights into pathogenesis research and the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and pathogen infections.

Methods

This review synthesizes recent findings on the immune-related mechanisms of SARM1, emphasizing its roles in inflammation and its functional impact on the nervous system and other bodily systems.

Conclusions

Understanding the multifaceted roles of SARM1 in immune regulation and neuronal health provides novel insights into its involvement in disease pathogenesis. These insights hold promise for advancing research into the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and pathogen-induced conditions.
Distribution of the schistosome intermediate snail host Biomphalaria pfeifferi in East Africa's river systems and the prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni infection
Authors: Magero Victor O , Kisara Sammy , Suleman Mbaruk A , Wade Christopher M
Published: December 2024

Background

There is a need for current and more detailed information on the distribution of Biomphalaria pfeifferi snails in East Africa's river systems. B. pfeifferi is arguably the most important snail intermediate host in the transmission of schistosomiasis, a disease ranked second to malaria in terms of tropical diseases of public health importance.

Methods

We assessed the occurrence and geographical distribution of B. pfeifferi snails in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Maximum entropy modelling was used to predict the potential distribution of B. pfeifferi snails and malacological surveys were conducted guided by MaxEnt predictions and information from previous studies. Malacological surveys were conducted at a total of 172 sites, including streams, rivers, dams, irrigation schemes and springs over a 3-y period from 2018 to 2020, with geospatial, ecological and physicochemical information recorded for each site.

Results

B. pfeifferi snails were found at 23 of the 172 sites and inhabited a variety of habitat types. Of the 23 sites where B. pfeifferi snails were found, 15 (65.2%) were streams, 3 rivers (13.04%), 2 dams (8.7%), 2 springs (8.7%) and 1 an irrigation scheme (4.35%). B. pfeifferi abundance showed a significant positive correlation with increasing water temperature and decreasing water depth. In Kenya, B. pfeifferi snails were found around the Lake Victoria basin, the Mwea irrigation scheme and in parts of the former Eastern Province of Kenya. In Uganda, B. pfeifferi snails were found in Jinja District, Ntoroko District and Soroti District. In Tanzania, B. pfeifferi snails were found in the Iringa, Tabora and Kigoma Regions. We observed moderate to high prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni infection, with S. mansoni–infected snails found at 11 of 23 sites and with an average prevalence of 24.9% at infected sites. In Kenya, S. mansoni–infected snails were found in the Lake Victoria basin (22.5% prevalence at infected sites) and the former Eastern Province (13.5% prevalence at infected sites). In Uganda, infected snails were found in Ntoroko District (100% infected) and Soroti District (20% infected). In Tanzania, infected snails were found in the Kigoma Region, with a prevalence of 10% at the infected site.

Conclusion

This information on the distribution of B. pfeifferi snails and S. mansoni infection in East Africa's river systems can aid in developing better prevention and control strategies for human schistosomiasis. Regular surveys of the river systems for snail intermediate hosts followed by molecular detection of schistosome infection could form a basis for the development of a prompt and cost-effective surveillance system for schistosomiasis in the region.
The Health Burden of E-Waste: The Impact of E-Waste Dumping Sites on Child Mortality
Authors: Lovo Stefania , Rawlings Samantha
Published: December 2024

E-waste is one of the fastest growing global waste streams, and is frequently shipped to poorer nations illegally, leading to contamination of local environments. The impact of e-waste dumping sites on neonatal and infant mortality is investigated, focusing on two major dumpsites in Ghana and Nigeria. Using a difference-in-differences approach, outcomes are compared for children born near and far from dumpsites before and after their creation. E-waste sites increase neonatal and infant mortality for those living closer to sites. Event studies suggest that effects emerge two to three years after site openings, consistent with gradual and systematic accumulation of contaminants in the environment. There is suggestive evidence that contamination of water and of urban farming produce are among the drivers of the observed effects.
Dietary prevention of antibiotic‐induced dysbiosis and mortality upon aging in mice
Authors: Smith Kelsey M. , Francisco Sarah G. , Zhu Ying , LeRoith Tanya , Davis Meredith L. , Crott Jimmy W. , Barger Kathryn , Greenberg Andrew S. , Smith Donald E. , Taylor Allen , Yeruva Laxmi , Rowan Sheldon
Published: December 2024

Oral antibiotic use is both widespread and frequent in older adults and has been linked to dysbiosis of the gut microbiota, enteric infection, and chronic diseases. Diet and nutrients, particularly prebiotics, may modify the susceptibility of the gut microbiome to antibiotic‐induced dysbiosis. We fed 12‐month‐old mice a high glycemic (HG) or low glycemic (LG) diet with or without antibiotics (ampicillin and neomycin) for an additional 11 months. The glycemic index was modulated by the ratio of rapidly digested amylopectin starch to slowly digested amylose, a type‐2‐resistant starch. We observed a significant decrease in survival of mice fed a HG diet containing antibiotics (HGAbx) relative to those fed a LG diet containing antibiotics (LGAbx). HGAbx mice died with an enlarged and hemorrhagic cecum, which is associated with colonic hyperplasia and goblet cell depletion. Gut microbiome analysis revealed a pronounced expansion of Proteobacteria and a near‐complete loss of Bacteroidota and Firmicutes commensal bacteria in HGAbx, whereas the LGAbx group maintained a population of Bacteroides and more closely resembled the LG microbiome. The predicted functional capacity for bile salt hydrolase activity was lost in HGAbx mice but retained in LGAbx mice. An LG diet containing amylose may therefore be a potential therapeutic to prevent antibiotic‐induced dysbiosis and morbidity.
Placenta Previa
Authors: Oyelese Yinka , Shainker Scott A.
Published: December 2024

Placenta previa is an important and potentially life-threatening cause of bleeding. Historically, it was a major contributor to maternal mortality until advancements in obstetric care, including prenatal ultrasound, cesarean delivery, and transfusion medicine, drastically improved outcomes. Today, placenta previa is typically identified during routine second-trimester ultrasound, with the overwhelming majority of cases resolving before term. Key risk factors include prior cesarean delivery, advanced maternal age, and smoking. When placenta previa is diagnosed, it is essential to assess for associated conditions like placenta accreta and vasa previa. A planned cesarean delivery is recommended in cases that persist into the late third trimester.
False and Misleading Claims of Scientific Misconduct in Early Research into Radiation Dose-response: Part 1. Overlooking Key Historical Text
Authors: Beyea Jan
Published: December 2024

In reviewing a video series that they created for the website of the Health Physics Society (HPS), past leaders of the Health Physics Society have treated as authoritative and trustworthy the scientific misconduct theories of University of Massachusetts Professor Edward Calabrese. No mention is made of detailed critiques of Calabrese’s work. I show that Calabrese’s historical work as presented by HPS’s authors is unreliable because it overlooks key historical text and key statistical concepts about the limits of an early atomic bomb genetics study. When these errors are corrected, claims of scientific misconduct on the part of historical figures evaporate. Claims of threshold behavior in early radiation genetic experiments are wrong for atomic bomb data. Calabrese’s unique claims about thresholds in early animal genetic data are not credible for human cancer, given the doses at which they were carried out (>30 R). Recent epidemiological studies of both acute and protracted exposure in humans fail to show dose-rate effects or a dose threshold above 30 R. Such results from human data should be more relevant for most regulators and review committees than Calabrese’s claims about old data on animals. Disclaimers, errata, and links to critiques should be added to the HPS webpage hosting the 22-part video series. Failure to do so can cause damage to reputations and historical accuracy because it erroneously validates Calabrese’s inflammatory claims of scientific misconduct against past scientists, including three Nobel Prize winners, members of the NAS, and presidents of the AAAS.