bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Prognostic Value of Immunonutritional Indexes in Pineal Region Tumor
Authors: Supbumrung Suchada , Kaewborisutsakul Anukoon , Tunthanathip Thara
Published: July 2024

Background Recent studies have identified immunonutritional indexes such as hemoglobin–albumin–lymphocyte–platelet (HALP) score, prognostic nutritional index (PNI), and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in various malignancies. However, there is a lack of studies to indicate whether the immune-nutritional indexes can predict the prognosis of patients with pineal region tumors. The objective was to estimate the prognostication of immune-nutritional indexes in patients with pineal region tumors.

Methods A retrospective cohort investigation involving 51 patients with pineal region tumors was conducted. Therefore, the HALP score, PNI, and NLR were measured for each patient before surgery. The association between the immune-nutritional indexes and prognosis was analyzed using Cox hazard regression.

Results For the total cohort, 1-, 2-, and 5-year survival probabilities were 92% (95% confidence interval [CI] 85–99.8), 92% (95% CI 85–99.8), and 81% (95% CI 70–94.1), respectively. HALP scores were positively associated with survival benefits. At the cutoff threshold of 22.6, the high-HALP group had a significantly longer survival time than the low-HALP group (hazard ratio 0.25, 95% CI 0.06–1.00, p-value 0.05).

Conclusion The preoperative HALP score is an independent prognostic factor for patients diagnosed with pineal region tumors. Furthermore, prospective multicenter studies ought to be performed in the future to externally validate the immunonutritional indexes' prognostication.
Exploring the impact of web-based inquiry on elementary school students’ science identity development in a STEM learning unit
Authors: Huang Lu , Pei Xinning
Published: July 2024

One of the primary objectives of science education is to cultivate students’ science identity, and evidence points to the efficacy of inquiry-based learning in advancing this objective. Nevertheless, recent concerns have emerged regarding the effectiveness of information technology in supporting scientific research and its impact on students’ science identity. This study explores this domain through a comparative experiment conducted with fifth-grade students at a Chinese elementary school. Utilizing the Web-based Inquiry Science Environment (WISE) and the “Solar Oven” STEM learning unit, it scrutinizes the effects of web-based inquiry and traditional inquiry on students’ science identity development. The findings indicate that web-based inquiry is equally effective as traditional inquiry in fostering students’ science identity, especially in the two dimensions of “recognition” and “performance”. Notably, web-based inquiry surpasses traditional inquiry by significantly improving seven out of eleven assessed indicators, while traditional inquiry improves only four indicators. This research provides valuable insights into how integrating information technology within an inquiry-based learning environment can support Chinese elementary school students in developing their science identity. These results have significant implications for science education by demonstrating that web-based inquiry is a valuable approach for fostering science identity among elementary school students.
The portrayal of Pakistan as whited sepulture against the Taliban: a case study of American media
Authors: Khurshid Ayisha
Published: July 2024

The changing narratives and portrayal of Taliban in the US media has been a subject of much deliberation among the media connoisseurs ranging from their heroic portrayal during the Afghan-Soviet war to desperados in the post 9/11 world landscape. For this particular reason, the present study is an effort to locate how the proxy actor (Pakistan) has been linked to the Taliban by the US media in the post 9/11 world. This research takes Time magazine as a case study and articles related to Pakistan are selected encompassing the decade following 9/11. The corpus-assisted critical discourse analysis has been applied using Graph Coll and Wordsmith. The analysis has been done on three levels: (i) the time-specific pattern of the node linked with the Pakistani context, (ii) the most significant and strong collocates of the node, and (iii) the semantic categorization of the collocates. The analysis reveals that Pakistan has been linked with Taliban groups throughout the decade in some years more frequently than others. The second level of analysis reveals that the Taliban groups are statistically significantly and strongly connected with Pakistan. The third level of analysis reveals many aspects such as ambiguity pertaining to Taliban and associated groups, their ties with Pakistan, and Pakistan playing a dodging game with Taliban groups as well as the US government. Such media portrayal of Pakistan as being a white sepulture reveals a political world where binaries (Us vs. Them) in the case of Pakistan do not exist.
A mathematical theory of relational generalization in transitive inference
Authors: Lippl Samuel , Kay Kenneth , Jensen Greg , Ferrera Vincent P. , Abbott L. F.
Published: July 2024

Humans and animals routinely infer relations between different items or events and generalize these relations to novel combinations of items. This allows them to respond appropriately to radically novel circumstances and is fundamental to advanced cognition. However, how learning systems (including the brain) can implement the necessary inductive biases has been unclear. We investigated transitive inference (TI), a classic relational task paradigm in which subjects must learn a relation (

A
>
B

and

B
>
C

) and generalize it to new combinations of items (

A
>
C

). Through mathematical analysis, we found that a broad range of biologically relevant learning models (e.g. gradient flow or ridge regression) perform TI successfully and recapitulate signature behavioral patterns long observed in living subjects. First, we found that models with item-wise additive representations automatically encode transitive relations. Second, for more general representations, a single scalar “conjunctivity factor” determines model behavior on TI and, further, the principle of norm minimization (a standard statistical inductive bias) enables models with fixed, partly conjunctive representations to generalize transitively. Finally, neural networks in the “rich regime,” which enables representation learning and improves generalization on many tasks, unexpectedly show poor generalization and anomalous behavior on TI. We find that such networks implement a form of norm minimization (over hidden weights) that yields a local encoding mechanism lacking transitivity. Our findings show how minimal statistical learning principles give rise to a classical relational inductive bias (transitivity), explain empirically observed behaviors, and establish a formal approach to understanding the neural basis of relational abstraction.
Parkinson’s-linked LRRK2-G2019S derails AMPAR trafficking, mobility, and composition in striatum with cell-type and subunit specificity
Authors: Gupta Swati , Tielemans Alexander , Guevara Christopher A. , Huntley George W. , Benson Deanna L.
Published: July 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a multifactorial disease that affects multiple brain systems and circuits. While defined by motor symptoms caused by degeneration of brainstem dopamine neurons, debilitating non-motor abnormalities in fronto-striatal-based cognitive function are common, appear early, and are initially independent of dopamine. Young adult mice expressing the PD-associated G2019S missense mutation in
Lrrk2
also exhibit deficits in fronto-striatal-based cognitive tasks. In mice and humans, cognitive functions require dynamic adjustments in glutamatergic synapse strength through cell-surface trafficking of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs), but it is unknown how LRRK2 mutation impacts dynamic features of AMPAR trafficking in striatal projection neurons (SPNs). Here, we used
Lrrk2
G2019S
knockin mice to show that surface AMPAR subunit stoichiometry is altered biochemically and functionally in mutant SPNs in dorsomedial striatum to favor the incorporation of GluA1 over GluA2. GluA1-containing AMPARs were resistant to internalization from the cell surface, leaving an excessive accumulation of GluA1 on the surface within and outside synapses. This negatively impacted trafficking dynamics that normally support synapse strengthening, as GluA1-containing AMPARs failed to increase at synapses in response to a potentiating stimulus and showed significantly reduced surface mobility. Surface GluA2-containing AMPARs were expressed at normal levels in synapses, indicating subunit-selective impairment. Abnormal surface accumulation of GluA1 was independent of PKA activity and was limited to D
1
R SPNs. Since LRRK2 mutation is thought to be part of a common PD pathogenic pathway, our data suggest that sustained, striatal cell-type specific changes in AMPAR composition and trafficking contribute to cognitive or other impairments associated with PD.
It matters what you see: Graphic media images of war and terror may amplify distress
Authors: Holman E. Alison , Garfin Dana Rose , Silver Roxane Cohen
Published: July 2024

Media exposure to graphic images of violence has proliferated in contemporary society, particularly with the advent of social media. Extensive exposure to media coverage immediately after the 9/11 attacks and the Boston Marathon bombings (BMB) was associated with more early traumatic stress symptoms; in fact, several hours of BMB-related daily media exposure was a stronger correlate of distress than being directly exposed to the bombings themselves. Researchers have replicated these findings across different traumatic events, extending this work to document that exposure to graphic images is independently and significantly associated with stress symptoms and poorer functioning. The media exposure-distress association also appears to be cyclical over time, with increased exposure predicting greater distress and greater distress predicting more media exposure following subsequent tragedies. The war in Israel and Gaza, which began on October 7, 2023, provides a current, real-time context to further explore these issues as journalists often share graphic images of death and destruction, making media-based graphic images once again ubiquitous and potentially challenging public well-being. For individuals sharing an identity with the victims or otherwise feeling emotionally connected to the Middle East, it may be difficult to avoid viewing these images. Through a review of research on the association between exposure to graphic images and public health, we discuss differing views on the societal implications of viewing such images and advocate for media literacy campaigns to educate the public to identify mis/disinformation and understand the risks of viewing and sharing graphic images with others.
Beneficial metabolic effects of PAHSAs depend on the gut microbiota in diet-induced obese mice but not in chow-fed mice
Authors: Lee Jennifer , Wellenstein Kerry , Rahnavard Ali , Nelson Andrew T. , Holter Marlena M. , Cummings Bethany P. , Yeliseyev Vladimir , Castoldi Angela , Clish Clary B. , Bry Lynn , Siegel Dionicio , Kahn Barbara B.
Published: July 2024

Dietary lipids play an essential role in regulating the function of the gut microbiota and gastrointestinal tract, and these luminal interactions contribute to mediating host metabolism. Palmitic Acid Hydroxy Stearic Acids (PAHSAs) are a family of lipids with antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory properties, but whether the gut microbiota contributes to their beneficial effects on host metabolism is unknown. Here, we report that treating chow-fed female and male germ-free (GF) mice with PAHSAs improves glucose tolerance, but these effects are lost upon high fat diet (HFD) feeding. However, transfer of feces from PAHSA-treated, but not vehicle-treated, chow-fed conventional mice increases insulin sensitivity in HFD-fed GF mice. Thus, the gut microbiota is necessary for, and can transmit, the insulin-sensitizing effects of PAHSAs in HFD-fed GF male mice. Analyses of the cecal metagenome and lipidome of PAHSA-treated mice identified multiple lipid species that associate with the gut commensal
Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron
(
Bt
) and with insulin sensitivity resulting from PAHSA treatment. Supplementing live, and to some degree, heat-killed
Bt
to HFD-fed female mice prevented weight gain, reduced adiposity, improved glucose tolerance, fortified the colonic mucus barrier and reduced systemic inflammation compared to HFD-fed controls. These effects were not observed in HFD-fed male mice. Furthermore, ovariectomy partially reversed the beneficial
Bt
effects on host metabolism, indicating a role for sex hormones in mediating the
Bt
probiotic effects. Altogether, these studies highlight the fact that PAHSAs can modulate the gut microbiota and that the microbiota is necessary for the beneficial metabolic effects of PAHSAs in HFD-fed mice.
Wnt/Wingless signaling promotes lipid mobilization through signal-induced transcriptional repression
Authors: Liu Mengmeng , Hemba-Waduge Rajitha-Udakara-Sampath , Li Xiao , Huang Xiahe , Liu Tzu-Hao , Han Xianlin , Wang Yingchun , Ji Jun-Yuan
Published: July 2024

The Wnt/Wingless signaling pathway plays critical roles in metazoan development and energy metabolism, but its role in regulating lipid homeostasis remains not fully understood. Here, we report that the activation of canonical Wnt/Wg signaling promotes lipolysis while concurrently inhibiting lipogenesis and fatty acid β-oxidation in both larval and adult adipocytes, as well as cultured S2R+ cells, in
Drosophila
. Using RNA-sequencing and CUT&RUN (Cleavage Under Targets & Release Using Nuclease) assays, we identified a set of Wnt target genes responsible for intracellular lipid homeostasis. Notably, active Wnt signaling directly represses the transcription of these genes, resulting in decreased de novo lipogenesis and fatty acid β-oxidation, but increased lipolysis. These changes lead to elevated free fatty acids and reduced triglyceride (TG) accumulation in adipocytes with active Wnt signaling. Conversely, downregulation of Wnt signaling in the fat body promotes TG accumulation in both larval and adult adipocytes. The attenuation of Wnt signaling also increases the expression of specific lipid metabolism-related genes in larval adipocytes, wing discs, and adult intestines. Taken together, these findings suggest that Wnt signaling-induced transcriptional repression plays an important role in regulating lipid homeostasis by enhancing lipolysis while simultaneously suppressing lipogenesis and fatty acid β-oxidation.
An atlas of the tomato epigenome reveals that KRYPTONITE shapes TAD-like boundaries through the control of H3K9ac distribution
Authors: An Jing , Brik Chaouche Rim , Pereyra-Bistraín Leonardo I. , Zalzalé Hugo , Wang Qingyi , Huang Ying , He Xiaoning , Dias Lopes Chloé , Antunez-Sanchez Javier , Bergounioux Catherine , Boulogne Claire , Dupas Cynthia , Gillet Cynthia , Pérez-Pérez José Manuel , Mathieu Olivier , Bouché Nicolas , Fragkostefanakis Sotirios , Zhang Yijing , Zheng Shaojian , Crespi Martin , Mahfouz Magdy M. , Ariel Federico , Gutierrez-Marcos Jose , Raynaud Cécile , Latrasse David , Benhamed Moussa
Published: July 2024

In recent years, the exploration of genome three-dimensional (3D) conformation has yielded profound insights into the regulation of gene expression and cellular functions in both animals and plants. While animals exhibit a characteristic genome topology defined by topologically associating domains (TADs), plants display similar features with a more diverse conformation across species. Employing advanced high-throughput sequencing and microscopy techniques, we investigated the landscape of 26 histone modifications and RNA polymerase II distribution in tomato (
Solanum lycopersicum
). Our study unveiled a rich and nuanced epigenetic landscape, shedding light on distinct chromatin states associated with heterochromatin formation and gene silencing. Moreover, we elucidated the intricate interplay between these chromatin states and the overall topology of the genome. Employing a genetic approach, we delved into the role of the histone modification H3K9ac in genome topology. Notably, our investigation revealed that the ectopic deposition of this chromatin mark triggered a reorganization of the 3D chromatin structure, defining different TAD-like borders. Our work emphasizes the critical role of H3K9ac in shaping the topology of the tomato genome, providing valuable insights into the epigenetic landscape of this agriculturally significant crop species.
The MKK3 MAPK cascade integrates temperature and after-ripening signals to modulate seed germination
Authors: Otani Masahiko , Tojo Ryo , Regnard Sarah , Zheng Lipeng , Hoshi Takumi , Ohmori Suzuha , Tachibana Natsuki , Sano Tomohiro , Koshimizu Shizuka , Ichimura Kazuya , Colcombet Jean , Kawakami Naoto
Published: July 2024

The timing of seed germination is controlled by the combination of internal dormancy and external factors. Temperature is a major environmental factor for seed germination. The permissive temperature range for germination is narrow in dormant seeds and expands during after-ripening (AR) (dormancy release). Quantitative trait loci analyses of preharvest sprouting in cereals have revealed that MKK3, a mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade protein, is a negative regulator of grain dormancy. Here, we show that the MAPKKK19/20-MKK3-MPK1/2/7/14 cascade modulates the germination temperature range in
Arabidopsis
seeds by elevating the germinability of the seeds at sub- and supraoptimal temperatures. The expression of
MAPKKK19
and
MAPKKK20
is induced around optimal temperature for germination in after-ripened seeds but repressed in dormant seeds. MPK7 activation depends on the expression levels of
MAPKKK19/20
, with expression occurring under conditions permissive for germination. Abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellin (GA) are two major phytohormones which are involved in germination control. Activation of the MKK3 cascade represses ABA biosynthesis enzyme gene expression and induces expression of ABA catabolic enzyme and GA biosynthesis enzyme genes, resulting in expansion of the germinable temperature range. Our data demonstrate that the MKK3 cascade integrates temperature and AR signals to phytohormone metabolism and seed germination.
A descriptive study of conditional constructions in Odia
Authors: Sahoo Kalyanamalini , Kumar Lenka Sanjaya
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the types of conditional constructions found in the Indo-Aryan language Odia and studies
the morpho-syntactic structure and linear function of it. In Odia, Conditional constructions consist of a main clause (adoposis),
and a subordinate clause (protasis). It is usually protasis, which functions as antecedent, and adoposis functions as consequent,
forming a single sentence, in which consequent is referentially linked to its antecedent by anaphoric relation. Odia Conditional
clause is marked in one of the various morpho-syntactic ways: lexically by 4 conjunctive morphemes like, jad̪i
‘if’/ ‘whether’, manekara ‘supposing’, natʃet̪ ‘otherwise’, kāɭe ‘in case’ or
grammatically by a bound morpheme ‑ile added with the verbal form as suffix, in the protasis, or by a
je…se correlative phrase ‘as long as’. This paper tries to formalize such relation of conditional clauses and
finds that a single conditional operator can map with different conditional scopes for denoting different types of conditional
meanings.
Modern Uyghur evidentials in interrogative sentences
Authors: Yakup Abdurishid
Published: July 2024

Modern Uyghur has five terms for evidentiality in declarative sentences: direct, inferred-perceptive, inferential-assumptive, reportative, and quotative. The direct evidential is primarily expressed through markers of viewpoint aspect, while the remaining four terms are expressed through evidential markers and a combination of evidential markers with evidential strategies. Although most evidentials occur in interrogative sentences, not all of them do. In contrast to declarative sentences, certain evidentials are not utilized to convey evidentiality in interrogative sentences. Some of these evidentials are not present in questions when they are employed to describe the speaker’s actions, emotions, and physical condition.

In interrogative sentences in Modern Uyghur, the source of information can be either the addressee or someone else. The speaker may provide information obtained through personal observation or from a third party, seeking the addressee’s expertise. Some evidential markers serve only to confirm information, and some questions may simply be a polite repetition of the addressee’s information.
Corpus-based variationist linguistics
Authors: Ünsal Şakiroğlu Hülya
Published: July 2024

This paper aims to identify what archaic words/word groups were still known and used both among language speakers
and Turkish National Corpus (TNC) as an indication of lexical change in Turkish from 1900 to 2020. The present study explores the diachronic
variation of lexical change in Turkish by combining the corpus-based variationist sociolinguistic approach with the perspective of
historical sociolinguistics. The words/collocations thought to be outdated from the original version of “Eylül” novel, written in
1900, were selected and randomly subsampled using a computer-based randomization algorithm. A survey was formed using the outdated
words/collocations along with the context. The results indicated that demographical variables did not affect word knowledge and
that the archaic words were unfamiliar to all participants uniformly. The overall comparison of words/collocations tested in TNC
and survey indicated similar results as the most and the least frequently used words were also the most and least abundantly
present in TNC.
Second language acquisition of morphosyntactic and discourse functions of case markers in Korean
Authors: Kim Hyunwoo , Park Sun Hee
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the extent to which second language (L2) learners experience difficulties when integrating
multiple sources of information at internal and external interfaces, and how their first language (L1) influences this integration
process. Two groups of L2 Korean learners, including Chinese and Japanese speakers, as well as native Korean speakers, completed a
sentence-completion task and an acceptability judgment task. In the sentence-completion task, both native speakers and
Japanese-speaking learners showed sensitivity to the function of case marking in distinct syntactic structures (morphology –
syntax interface or internal interface), but not Chinese-speaking learners. In the acceptability judgment task, only the native
speakers exhibited sensitivity to the discourse functions of case marking based on information structure (morphology – discourse
interface or external interface), whereas the L2 learners did not appear to be influenced by the case-marking condition. These
findings suggest that L2 integration of multiple information sources may be influenced by specific types of interfaces and L1
background.
The representation of African American identity on screen for a Spanish audience
Authors: Green Stuart
Published: July 2024

Existing studies of translations of audio-visual productions that explore African American issues focus exclusively on African American Vernacular English and culturally specific references, the standardisation or omission of which are seen to compromise the originals’ critique of race and their value for in-group identity. This article takes a multimodal approach to three such productions dubbed for a Spanish audience. Firstly, it examines how characters’ African American identity is rendered not only by language but also visually and aurally. Comprehension in dubbed versions is more likely to be affected by non-linguistic matters, such as casting of voice talent. Secondly, it is shown how translations shape the audio-visual creation of a fictional world and extra-diegetic elements that address a particular audience and thus enable in-group identification along ethnic lines. Lastly, an alternative translation strategy is outlined that targets audiences from the international Black diaspora to whom such productions might appeal.
A genome-wide screen links peroxisome regulation with Wnt signaling through RNF146 and TNKS/2
Authors: Vu Jonathan T. , Tavasoli Katherine U. , Sheedy Connor J. , Chowdhury Soham P. , Mandjikian Lori , Bacal Julien , Morrissey Meghan A. , Richardson Chris D. , Gardner Brooke M.
Published: July 2024

Peroxisomes are membrane-bound organelles harboring metabolic enzymes. In humans, peroxisomes are required for normal development, yet the genes regulating peroxisome function remain unclear. We performed a genome-wide CRISPRi screen to identify novel factors involved in peroxisomal homeostasis. We found that inhibition of RNF146, an E3 ligase activated by poly(ADP-ribose), reduced the import of proteins into peroxisomes. RNF146-mediated loss of peroxisome import depended on the stabilization and activity of the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases TNKS and TNKS2, which bind the peroxisomal membrane protein PEX14. We propose that RNF146 and TNKS/2 regulate peroxisome import efficiency by PARsylation of proteins at the peroxisome membrane. Interestingly, we found that the loss of peroxisomes increased TNKS/2 and RNF146-dependent degradation of non-peroxisomal substrates, including the β-catenin destruction complex component AXIN1, which was sufficient to alter the amplitude of β-catenin transcription. Together, these observations not only suggest previously undescribed roles for RNF146 in peroxisomal regulation but also a novel role in bridging peroxisome function with Wnt/β-catenin signaling during development.
Newtonian limit of Einstein equation with a cosmological constant*
Authors: Li 李 Li-Fang 丽仿 , Cao 曹 Zhoujian 周键 , He 何 Xiaokai 孝凯
Published: July 2024

Traditionally, the cosmological constant has been viewed as dark energy that mimics matter with negative energy. Given that matter with negative energy provides a repulsive force, which fundamentally differs from typical gravitational forces, it has been believed that the cosmological constant effectively contributes a repulsive force. However, it is important to note that the concept of gravitational force is valid only within the framework of Newtonian dynamics. In this study, we demonstrate that the traditional understanding of the gravitational force contributed by the cosmological constant is not entirely correct. Our approach involves investigating the Newtonian limit of the Einstein equation with a cosmological constant. The subtleties involved in this analysis are discussed in detail. Interestingly, we find that the effect of the cosmological constant on Newtonian gravity is an attractive force rather than a repulsive one for ordinary matter. As expected, this corrective force is negligibly small. However, our findings may offer a way to distinguish between dark energy and the cosmological constant, as one contributes a repulsive force while the other contributes an attractive force.
Association of retinal age gap with chronic kidney disease and subsequent cardiovascular disease sequelae: a cross-sectional and longitudinal study from the UK Biobank
Authors: Wu Guanrong , Zhang Xiayin , Borchert Grace A , Zheng Chunwen , Liang Yingying , Wang Yaxin , Du Zijing , Huang Yu , Shang Xianwen , Yang Xiaohong , Hu Yijun , Yu Honghua , Zhu Zhuoting
Published: July 2024

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and is more prevalent in older adults. Retinal age gap, a biomarker of aging based on fundus images, has been previously developed and validated. This study aimed to investigate the association of retinal age gap with CKD and subsequent CVD complications.

Methods

A deep learning model was trained to predict the retinal age using 19 200 fundus images of 11 052 participants without any medical history at baseline. Retinal age gap, calculated as retinal age predicted minus chronological age, was calculated for the remaining 35 906 participants. Logistic regression models and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used for the association analysis.

Results

A total of 35 906 participants (56.75 ± 8.04 years, 55.68% female) were included in this study. In the cross-sectional analysis, each 1-year increase in retinal age gap was associated with a 2% increase in the risk of CKD prevalence [odds ratio 1.02, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–1.04, P = .012]. A longitudinal analysis of 35 039 participants demonstrated that 2.87% of them developed CKD in follow-up, and each 1-year increase in retinal age gap was associated with a 3% increase in the risk of CKD incidence (hazard ratio 1.03, 95% CI 1.01–1.05, P = .004). In addition, a total of 111 CKD patients (15.81%) developed CVD in follow-up, and each 1-year increase in retinal age gap was associated with a 10% increase in the risk of incident CVD (hazard ratio 1.10, 95% CI 1.03–1.17, P = .005).

Conclusions

We found that retinal age gap was independently associated with the prevalence and incidence of CKD, and also associated with CVD complications in CKD patients. This supports the use of this novel biomarker in identifying individuals at high risk of CKD and CKD patients with increased risk of CVD.
A Mixed-Methods Study to Evaluate Family Planning Desires and Barriers to Building Families Among Gay, Bisexual, and Lesbian Cisgender Military Service Members
Authors: Boedeker David , Hunkler Kiley , Lindner Peter , Phillips Keeley , Hill Micah , Plowden Torie , Cole Rebekah
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Barriers to seeking infertility care for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer/questioning, and asexual (LGBTIQA+) individuals are well documented in the literature. However, little is known about military LGBTIQA+ service members seeking infertility care within the Military Health System. Approximately 6.1% of active duty U.S. service members across all branches identify as LGBTIQA+, which underscores the need for a deeper understanding of the needs of this community to support and retain service members. We therefore sought to describe the lived experiences of lesbian and gay cisgender service members in building their families in order to understand their family-building desires and potential barriers to seeking infertility care.

Materials and Methods

We developed a survey to investigate the impact of military service on family planning. After Institutional Review Board approval, we distributed the survey throughout Walter Reed National Military Medical Center’s obstetrics and gynecology clinic and posted the survey on multiple open and closed social media pages for LGBTIQA+ service members. We reported descriptive statistics of our survey and compared binary variables using the Fisher exact test. Following completion of this survey, participants could self-select to participate in semi-structured interviews.

Results

Sixty-eight respondents completed our survey and self-identified as either cis-male (n = 28) or cis-female (n = 40). Most respondents (67.9% cis-males, 92.5% cis-females) plan to build their families during their military commitment; however, approximately half (50.0% cis-male, 42.5% cis-female) reported a lack of support in this endeavor. Many respondents were unaware of resources that would assist in the pursuit of donor egg, donor sperm, or surrogacy (78.6% cis-males, 50.0% cis-females). Thirty-six participants elected to complete a follow-up interview. After coding the interviews, 5 themes emerged: (1) barriers to initiating care; (2) institutional barriers within the military; (3) political barriers; (4) knowledge sharing; and (5) implicit and explicit bias.

Conclusions

Our results suggest significant barriers to LGBTIQA+ service members seeking infertility care. Overall, LGBTIQA+ service members did not feel supported by the military in building their families. Although the military has expanded access to infertility services, efforts to raise awareness and build support for LGBTIQA+ service members are warranted.
Epigenetic and transcriptional consequences in the endosperm of chemically induced transposon mobilization in Arabidopsis
Authors: Del Toro-De León Gerardo , van Boven Joram , Santos-González Juan , Jiao Wen-Biao , Peng Haoran , Schneeberger Korbinian , Köhler Claudia
Published: July 2024

Genomic imprinting, an epigenetic phenomenon leading to parent-of-origin-specific gene expression, has independently evolved in the endosperm of flowering plants and the placenta of mammals—tissues crucial for nurturing embryos. While transposable elements (TEs) frequently colocalize with imprinted genes and are implicated in imprinting establishment, direct investigations of the impact of de novo TE transposition on genomic imprinting remain scarce. In this study, we explored the effects of chemically induced transposition of the Copia element ONSEN on genomic imprinting in Arabidopsis thaliana. Through the combination of chemical TE mobilization and doubled haploid induction, we generated a line with 40 new ONSEN copies. Our findings reveal a preferential targeting of maternally expressed genes (MEGs) for transposition, aligning with the colocalization of H2A.Z and H3K27me3 in MEGs—both previously identified as promoters of ONSEN insertions. Additionally, we demonstrate that chemically-induced DNA hypomethylation induces global transcriptional deregulation in the endosperm, leading to the breakdown of MEG imprinting. This study provides insights into the consequences of chemically induced TE remobilization in the endosperm, revealing that chemically-induced epigenome changes can have long-term consequences on imprinted gene expression.
DNA sequence and chromatin differentiate sequence-specific transcription factor binding in the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Bonnell Victoria A , Zhang Yuning , Brown Alan S , Horton John , Josling Gabrielle A , Chiu Tsu-Pei , Rohs Remo , Mahony Shaun , Gordân Raluca , Llinás Manuel
Published: July 2024

Development of the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, is regulated by a limited number of sequence-specific transcription factors (TFs). However, the mechanisms by which these TFs recognize genome-wide binding sites is largely unknown. To address TF specificity, we investigated the binding of two TF subsets that either bind CACACA or GTGCAC DNA sequence motifs and further characterized two additional ApiAP2 TFs, PfAP2-G and PfAP2-EXP, which bind unique DNA motifs (GTAC and TGCATGCA). We also interrogated the impact of DNA sequence and chromatin context on P. falciparum TF binding by integrating high-throughput in vitro and in vivo binding assays, DNA shape predictions, epigenetic post-translational modifications, and chromatin accessibility. We found that DNA sequence context minimally impacts binding site selection for paralogous CACACA-binding TFs, while chromatin accessibility, epigenetic patterns, co-factor recruitment, and dimerization correlate with differential binding. In contrast, GTGCAC-binding TFs prefer different DNA sequence context in addition to chromatin dynamics. Finally, we determined that TFs that preferentially bind divergent DNA motifs may bind overlapping genomic regions due to low-affinity binding to other sequence motifs. Our results demonstrate that TF binding site selection relies on a combination of DNA sequence and chromatin features, thereby contributing to the complexity of P. falciparum gene regulatory mechanisms.
SPL01 ETHICAL ISSUES ON GLOBAL HEALTH
Authors: Benmakhlouf Ali
Published: July 2024

The lecture will try to give some hints on the need for a global health, mainly from the point of view of African countries.

Although Global health is acknowledged as one single health, it is not sufficiently defended, nor is sufficiently implied in public reasoning, let alone in political decisions. “This notion of global health corresponds to the realization that any health event occurring on the other side of the world now concerns everyone” (An interview of Dominique Kerouedan, in « Sciences au Sud », N°68, January, February, March, 2013). It refers more generally to “prevention, vaccination, access to water, sanitation, hygiene education, family planning, primary care, reducing the shortage of caregivers, access to medicines, availability of health information” (Idem).

“Global” is not just a spatial concept, signifying the transition from epidemic to pandemic. The concept of "global health" conceals heterogeneous realities. Three factors are involved: 1) the disease, 2) the social perception to which it gives rise, and 3) the medical response (treatment, vaccination, etc.). Didier Fassin suggests we speak of “interconnection” rather than “extension” (Médecine/sciences, Med Sci (Paris), Volume 31, Number 5, May 2015).

It is difficult to separate global health from health inequalities and inequalities of access to prevention. In Africa, there’s a lack of strategy for early detection of chronic diseases such as infectious diseases, as well as a lack of studies of incidence and prevalence country by country. We cannot neglect parasitic diseases and chronic non-communicable diseases, notably diabetes and cancer and being focused only on infectious diseases that lead to epidemics.
SPL11 BASIC OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES - CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNIVERSAL OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH CARE
Authors: Moti Suvarna , van Dijk Frank
Published: July 2024

Universal Health Coverage (UHC) emphasises equity, quality and protection against financial risk for utilization of health services extending the Basic Occupational Health Services’ (BOHS) conceptual framework. Global progress toward UHC has to factor the need for occupational health care among 80 percent of working populations deprived of this care. BOHS, focussing upon the primary care approach for working populations without organised or expert occupational health care, has the potential to change the landscape for efficient occupational health care systems through prioritization and pooling of scarce resources aligned with the local needs and conditions. This session will look beyond the provision of occupational health care in organised sector and discuss the access for such care among underserved working populations in informal employment, migrant and temporary workers, agricultural workers etc. A survey conducted among leading BOHS-associated experts globally underlines the challenges and facilitators to execute such a process towards Universal Occupational Health Care in a sustainable manner through a thematic construct of their experiences. Similarly, other models of occupational health care providing few elements, either through primary or private care, will be referred to augment the evidence base. There will be recommendations basis these learnings to shape the narrative for a wider discourse on BOHS-driven Universal Occupational Health Care.
SS01-04 DID MANAGERS’ WORK SITUATION DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC LEAD TO LONG-LASTING RELATION-ORIENTED LEADERSHIP?
Authors: Ljung Robert , Lundqvist Daniel , Reineholm Cathrine , Wallo Andreas
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to contribute knowledge about managers' work situation during the corona pandemic. More specifically, the report focused on describing how managers' work situation has changed as a result of the corona pandemic in terms of tasks and work environment, work conditions, leadership and relationships with employees.

Materials and Methods

A mixed-method design was performed for this project. To explore the proportions of managers’ situation, a survey was conducted, and a total of 1,000 managers participated. Interviews covered the qualitative aspects, a total of 50 managers participated in a structural interview.

Results

The finding is that managers' work situation did not radically change due to the corona pandemic. However, the operational work increased during the pandemic at the expense of the strategic work. Work environment management was re-prioritized during the pandemic depending on the type of business and where the work was carried out (at site or remote work). It was reported that the leadership shifted to more relation-orientated leadership. However, the results show some differences depending on where the work has been carried out, branch, management experience, number of direct reporting employees, and gender.

Conclusions

To support managers and their work, it is essential to create standard guidelines and policies within the organization, create a buffer of resources to handle future unforeseen events, work up a crisis management preparedness, and actively care about employees’ and managers' development environments.
SS02-02 STRENGTHS AND AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT OF THE MOROCCAN SYSTEM
Authors: Khiraoui Abdelkrim
Published: July 2024

As one of the first countries to establish legislation and regulations for occupational diseases, Morocco has a system that exhibits several strengths but also requires ongoing improvements. Key strengths include: (i) Legislation on occupational diseases has been in existence since 1927, allowing for the free choice of a treating physician who assesses the degree of Permanent Partial Disability (IPP) resulting from the occupational disease; (ii) An organization for the prevention of occupational diseases; (iii) A public-private partnership in insurance since 2015, between insurance companies and CNRA - the insurance company covers the risk, deposits the capital for the annuity in the event of a claim with CNRA, and CNRA guarantees and manages the annuity service.

Areas for improvement in occupational disease coverage include: (i) A need to improve employers' understanding of the legislation and regulations, as they are currently fragmented, complex, and difficult to access; (ii) Employer-led prevention efforts to reduce the frequency and cost of claims; (iii) Medical expertise; (iv) The legal process, which involves multiple stakeholders with roles and coordination that are not optimized; (v) The sustainability of this insurance coverage to benefit both employers and their employees when needed; (vi) The simplification of administrative and legal procedures in the event of a claim; (vii) The optimization of insurance coverage to make it affordable for all businesses, especially small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and to improve coverage rates; (viii) Regular revision of the list of occupational diseases; and (ix) Acceptance by insurers of certain sectors with very high exposure to protect all workers and ensure equal coverage among them.
SS05 EMERGING AND CONTINUING BIOHAZARDS IN THE WORKPLACE
Authors: Ross Mary
Published: July 2024

This special session will focus on the emerging and continuing biohazards present in various workplace environments. It will provide a platform for experts and researchers to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and advancements in identifying, assessing, and managing biohazards in the workplace. The session will cover sub-themes such as emerging infectious diseases, occupational exposure to biohazards, biological agents in healthcare settings, emerging workplace biohazardous threats, and strategies for prevention and control. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of workplace biohazards and the importance of effective risk management to ensure worker health and safety.

Brief learning outcomes

– Gain an understanding of the emerging biohazards in different workplace settings and their potential impact on worker health and safety. – Explore the current research and trends related to occupational exposure to biohazards and their associated health risks. – Learn about the latest developments in preventing and managing infectious diseases in the workplace, with a focus on emerging pathogens and their control measures. – Acquire knowledge on the potential risks arising from emerging biohazardous threats in different industries and explore strategies to mitigate the associated risks.
SS06-02 DELIVERING OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AS A UNIVERSAL FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT AT WORK – THE LMIC DILEMMA
Authors: Shah Divyang , Pingle Shyam
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The ILO has now recognized safety and health as a universal fundamental right at work. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), it is a long and daunting task. India, with almost 25% of the global labour force, is a glaring example of challenges in achieving this objective among LMICs.

Methods

India faces unique challenges in occupational health (OH) service delivery. Limited resources and disparities in healthcare infrastructure can hinder access to quality OH services, especially for marginalized populations. India is a country of paradoxes with the best and worst examples. Its diverse economic landscape encompasses large, medium, small, and microenterprises. Larger organizations have more resources and infrastructure to support OH programs, while smaller entities may struggle to implement comprehensive OH services, leaving many workers without access.

Results

In India, OH is the mandate of the labour and employment ministry, while delivery of health services is the mandate of the health ministry. And these two ministries seldom interact. OH service delivery varies significantly across different sectors. Organized industries have established OH programs, while the service and agricultural sectors lag behind.

Conclusion

Capacity building, infrastructure and awareness are the main challenges. Promoting OH as a fundamental right at work requires collaboration between government, industry, and civil society to ensure that all workers, regardless of their economic status, organization size, work model, or occupational sector, have equitable access to essential OH services and protections. The Indian Association of Occupational Health is a professional organization engaged in advocacy and awareness creation and is playing the role of a facilitator.
SS07-06 OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE AS A FIREFIGHTER: CONTRIBUTION FROM BIOMONITORING ASSAYS
Authors: Oliveira Marta , Morais S , Delerue-Matos C
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The occupational exposure as a firefighter was recently classified as carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The firefighters’ activity is genotoxic, induces epigenetic alterations, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation. Firefighting forces are occupationally exposed to different chemical hazards primarily via inhalation and dermal contact. Over the last decades, human biomonitoring studies have characterized the direct impact of occupational activity, particularly firefighting, on firefighters’ bodies.

Materials and Methods

This work describes the contribution of firefighters’ biomonitoring to better understand the exposure levels and related health risks. Human biomonitoring assays have significantly contributed to characterizing the occupational exposure of firefighting forces with the determination of different biomarkers of exposure to health-relevant pollutants, particularly those released during fires, in firefighters’ biological fluids (e.g., urine, blood, and saliva).

Results

Overall, biological levels of some volatile organic compounds including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and metals were predominantly increased in firefighters after participation in firefighting activities. Moreover, biomonitoring assays performed on firefighters also characterized some biomarkers of effect, namely oxidative stress, DNA damage, stress hormones, inflammation, and vascular, lung, and liver injury.

Conclusion

These assays demonstrated short-term biological changes that if prolonged throughout the firefighter's career can promote the development and/or aggravation of diseases (e.g., cardio-respiratory diseases and cancer). The major limitations of biomonitoring assays will be highlighted, and future research needs will be proposed.