bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PagHAM4a–PagSCL21 and PagHAM4b–PagTCP20 modules positively regulate cambial activity and its differentiation into secondary xylem in poplar
Authors: Zhao Pan , Yu Qiulin , He Yumei , Sun Pengfang , Wang Huilin , Zhou Xinyi , Su Yuting , Guo Huihong 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Stem secondary xylem produced by cambial division and differentiation is the main source of tree biomass. Secondary xylem formation involves a complex transcriptional regulatory network; however, the underlying mechanism is still being explored. Here, we report that PagHAM4a and PagHAM4b are positive regulators of cambial differentiation into secondary xylem in hybrid poplar (Populus alba × Populus glandulosa clone 84K). Overexpression of PagHAM4a and PagHAM4b enhanced cambial activity and increased the number of secondary xylem cells in the stems of poplar. By contrast, single or double mutations of PagHAM4a and PagHAM4b generated by CRISPR/Cas9 decreased cambial activity, leading to a significant reduction of secondary xylem. Neither overexpression nor mutation of the two genes affected the size of vessels and fibers in xylem. Both PagHAM4a- and PagHAM4b-regulated gene networks were mainly centered at the stage when cambium had just initiated secondary growth, but the molecular networks regulated by the two genes were distinct. Further analysis revealed that PagSCL21 and PagTCP20 are direct targets of PagHAM4a and PagHAM4b, respectively, and their overexpression also promoted cambial differentiation into secondary xylem. Taken together, we identified two novel key regulatory modules in poplar, PagHAM4a–PagSCL21 and PagHAM4b–PagTCP20, which provide new insights into the mechanism of secondary xylem formation in trees.
The labour market differences between the asylum population and other migrants
Authors: Wong Lorraine 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This article examines economic disparities between the asylum population and other migrants accounting for selection on unobservables. With administrative datasets of arrivals since the 1940s, descriptive evidence suggests that the asylum population is 7%–11% less likely to be employed and earn 15%–19% less than other migrants from 2010 to 2014 in Switzerland. Comparing bias-adjusted results considering selection on unobservables to conventional approaches such as decomposition and matching, I find that the bias-adjusted gaps bias towards zero. This suggests that conventional approaches may overestimate the outcome gaps. My results highlight that the outcome gaps persist, although discrimination and other unexplained factors are decreasing over time.
Reoptimizing Combat and Operational Stress Control in the U.S. Air Force
Authors: Dixon Mark A , Bohman T. Daniel , Polk Nicholas F , Farber Brandon C , Smith Charnell E 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
The future of warfare is changing with anticipation of moving toward Agile Combat Employment in contested, degraded, and operationally limited environments. This will require some changes for behavioral health provision within the Air Force during deployments. With over a century of development and refinement, Combat and Operational Stress Control (COSC) has proven to be a sustainable model for behavioral health asset utilization to maximize unit combat effectiveness and individual personnel performance. It allows flexibility of implementation across the force generation cycle through outreach efforts, unit integration, prevention services, and command consultation. COSC teams are versatile: Both enlisted and officer providers have a dynamic opportunity to influence and shape the wellness of an entire population of service members. To maximize this potential, the Air Force needs to formally train for the COSC mission and consider realigning the active duty mental health personnel from working almost exclusively in the Mental Health clinic to primarily working in the units. Employing the key principles of COSC in garrison is possible; however, it will take significant effort and purpose to change from the current policy.
“Holy Cow, Where do I Sign up?” Attitudes of Military Veterans Toward Epigenomic Biomarker Toxic Exposure Testing
Authors: Pereira Stacey , Apodaca Calvin , Slominski Kyle , Lipsky Rachele K , Coarfa Cristian , Walker Cheryl L , McGuire Amy L , Steele Lea , Helmer Drew A 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction
After the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act in 2022, there has been a great interest in studying toxic exposures encountered during military service. Development of epigenomic biomarkers for exposures could facilitate understanding of exposure-related health effects, but such testing could also provide unwanted information.

Materials and Methods
We explored attitudes toward epigenomic biomarker research and the potential to test for past exposures using semistructured interviews with Veterans (n = 22) who experienced potentially harmful exposures.

Results
Twenty Veterans said they would hypothetically want to receive epigenomic information related to their toxic exposures and potential health impacts as part of a research study. Veterans identified 9 potential benefits, including promoting insights concerning intergenerational health, identification of early health interventions, and additional knowledge or explanation for their experiences. Sixteen participants noted potential risks, including psychological distress, receiving nonactionable, uncertain, or inaccurate results, and privacy and discrimination risks. Ten participants identified at least 1 condition in their children that they thought could be related to their exposure and most said they would be interested in receiving research results related to their children’s and grandchildren’s risk.

Conclusion
Results suggest that Veterans might welcome benefits of epigenomic research related to military exposures, yet have some concerns about potential negative impacts.
The active role of co-evolving haloes in stellar bar formation
Authors: Frosst Matthew , Obreschkow Danail , Ludlow Aaron 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
We use idealized N-body simulations of equilibrium discs in live and static haloes to study how dark matter co-evolution impacts the assembly of stellar particles into a bar and the halo response. Initial conditions correspond to a marginally unstable disc according to commonly used disc stability criteria, and are evolved for the equivalent of about 150 disc dynamical times (10 Gyr). An extensive convergence study ensures accurate modelling of the bar formation process. Live haloes lead to the formation of a strong bar, but the same disc remains unbarred when evolved in a static halo. Neither seeded disc instabilities nor longer (60 Gyr) simulations result in the formation of a bar when the halo is static. When the live halo is replaced with a static analogue at later times, the previously robust bar slowly dissipates, suggesting that (1) the co-evolution of the disc and halo is critical for the assembly and long-term survival of bars in marginally unstable discs and (2) global disc stability criteria must be modified for discs in the presence of live haloes. In our live halo runs, a ‘dark bar’ grows synchronously with the stellar bar. Processes that inhibit the transfer of angular momentum between the halo and disc may stabilize a galaxy against bar formation, and can lead to the dissolution of the bar itself. This raises further questions about the puzzling stability of observed discs that are marginally unstable, but unbarred.
The Human Accelerated Region HAR202 Controls NPAS3 Expression in the Developing Forebrain Displaying Differential Enhancer Activity Between Modern and Archaic Human Sequences
Authors: Caporale Alfredo Leandro , Cinalli Alejandro R , Rubinstein Marcelo , Franchini Lucía F 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
It has been proposed that the phenotypic differences in cognitive abilities between humans and our closest living relatives, chimpanzees, are largely due to changes in the regulation of neurodevelopmental genes. We have previously found that the neurodevelopmental transcription factor gene NPAS3 accumulates the largest number of human accelerated regions (HARs), suggesting it may play some role in the phenotypic evolution of the human nervous system. In this work, we performed a comparative functional analysis of NPAS3-HAR202 using enhancer reporter assays in transgenic zebrafish and mice. We found that the Homo sapiens HAR202 ortholog failed to drive reporter expression to the zebrafish nervous system, in high contrast to the strong expression displayed by the rest of the vertebrate ortholog sequences tested. Remarkably, the HAR202 ortholog from archaic humans (Neanderthals/Denisovans) also displayed a pan-vertebrate expression pattern, despite the fact that archaic and modern humans have only one nucleotide substitution. Moreover, similar results were found when comparing enhancer activity in transgenic mice, where we observed a loss of activity of the modern human version in the mouse developing brain. To investigate the functional importance of HAR202, we generated mice lacking HAR202 and found a remarkable decrease of Npas3 expression in the forebrain during development. Our results place HAR202 as one of the very few examples of a neurodevelopmental transcriptional enhancer displaying functional evolution in the brain as a result of a fast molecular evolutionary process that specifically occurred in the human lineage.
A Japanese case of VEXAS syndrome after COVID-19 vaccination: Comparison with previously reported cases
Authors: Miyagi Yui , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Umebayashi Yoshihiro , Okimura Akira , Nakatsugawa Munehide , Maeda Ayaka , Kirino Yohei , Aoki Akiko 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
VEXAS (vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X-linked, autoinflammatory, and somatic) syndrome is a novel adult-onset autoinflammatory disorder caused by variants in the UBA1 gene. Here, we report a Japanese case of VEXAS syndrome in which symptoms began 1 day after the second booster dose of a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) messenger ribonucleic acid vaccine, and a UBA1 variant was subsequently confirmed. Combined with the three cases reported thus far, this suggests that the COVID-19 vaccine may be one of the triggers for development of VEXAS syndrome in Asian populations. Since COVID-19 vaccines have been reported to be associated with various autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases, it is important to continue to pay close attention to the relationship between COVID-19 vaccines and VEXAS syndrome.
“Because That is the Right Thing to do”: A Focus Group Study of Australian Expert Perspectives on Offering Smoking Cessation Support in Lung Cancer Screening
Authors: Harrison Nathan J , Dodd Rachael H , Sharman Ashleigh R , Marshall Henry M , Stone Emily , Rhee Joel J , Yap Mei Ling , McCullough Sue , Paul Christine , Bowden Jacqueline A , Bonevski Billie , Rankin Nicole M 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Lung cancer screening (LCS) trials, targeting people with a smoking history, have demonstrated reduced mortality. How to optimally embed evidence-based smoking cessation support in LCS, including in Australia, needs to be better understood. We sought experts’ perspectives to identify potential barriers and effective implementation strategies.

Aims and Methods
Perceptions of providing smoking cessation support in LCS were elicited in 24 focus groups and three individual interviews with clinicians, cancer screening program managers/policymakers, and researchers during 2021. We conducted framework analysis and mapped key topics to the updated Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).

Results
Experts (N = 84 participants) strongly supported capitalizing on an “opportune time” for smoking cessation and new LCS participant contact opportunities throughout the screening and assessment pathway. Many advocated for adapting existing cessation resources to the LCS setting and providing support without participant costs. Experts generally considered referral alone to established programs (eg, telephone Quitline) as insufficient, but likely helpful in follow-up, and dedicated cessation specialist roles as essential. Broader cessation messaging (via mass media/community channels) was also suggested to reinforce individualized support. Experts described inherent alignment, and an ethical responsibility, to deliver smoking cessation as a core LCS component. It was suggested that LCS-eligible participants’ varied experiences of stigma, health literacy, and motivation, be considered in cessation support. Primary care support and individualized interventions were suggested to facilitate implementation.

Conclusions
Experts considered smoking cessation support essential in LCS. The expert-identified and multi-level implementation strategies described here can directly inform smoking cessation-specific planning for Australia’s forthcoming National LCS Program.

Implications
The international literature includes few examples considering how best to provide smoking cessation support within a LCS program in advance of program commencement. Our analysis, using the updated CFIR, is one of the first to explore experts’ perspectives within this context. Experts identified multiple implementation barriers to providing smoking cessation support within and outside of an Australian LCS program, including key work infrastructure barriers, and advocated for providing tailored interventions within this program. Our foundational work in a new targeted screening program’s preimplementation phase will allow international comparisons to be made.
Characteristics Associated With Ice Flavor Use Among Middle and High School Students Currently Using E-cigarettes: National Youth Tobacco Survey, 2023
Authors: Park-Lee Eunice , Cowan Hannah , Gaines-Harris Mo’Nique , Cooper Maria R , Sawdey Michael D , Cullen Karen A 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
To examine ice flavor use and its correlates among middle and high school students who currently (any past 30 days) used e-cigarettes.

Methods
The 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS) assessed for the first time the use of e-cigarette flavors that included the word “ice” or “iced” in the name. Using logistic regression, data from the 2023 NYTS were used to examine differences in sociodemographic characteristics and tobacco use behaviors by ice flavor use among students who currently used e-cigarettes (n = 1,565).

Results
Among middle and high school students who currently used e-cigarettes, an estimated 1.1 million or 57.9% reported ice flavor use. Youth who currently used e-cigarettes were more likely to use ice flavors if they used e-cigarettes on ≥20 of the past 30 days compared to 1–5 days (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.36 to 3.94); used fruit (aOR = 2.27, 95% CI = 1.36 to 3.80), candy (aOR = 2.73, 95% CI = 1.54 to 4.82), or mint flavors (aOR = 3.63, 95% CI = 1.98 to 6.65) compared to those who did not use the respective flavor type; reported any nicotine dependence compared to those who did not (aOR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.04 to 2.80); or had mild/moderate (aOR = 1.97, 95% CI = 1.01 to 3.83) or severe psychological distress (aOR = 2.41, 95% CI = 1.25 to 4.62) compared to those without psychological distress.

Conclusions
The present study found that ice-flavored e-cigarette use among youth was associated with the use of e-cigarettes for ≥20 days, the use of fruit, candy, or mint flavors, any symptoms of nicotine dependence, and psychological distress (mild/moderate, severe). The emergence of novel flavor categories and features of e-cigarettes warrant continued surveillance to provide an understanding of associated use patterns, especially among youth.

Implications
This study examined ice flavor use and its correlates among middle and high school students who currently use e-cigarettes. Ice-flavored e-cigarette use among youth was positively associated with frequent e-cigarette use, use of fruit, candy, or mint flavors, and any symptoms of nicotine dependence. Additionally, the likelihood of ice-flavored e-cigarette use was associated with the severity of psychological distress.
A Systematic Review of Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir and Molnupiravir for the Treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Haslam Alyson , Prasad Vinay 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
To address the need for treatments for patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), 3 therapies have been given either full approval or Emergency Use Authorization. These were based on randomized data showing a reduction in deaths/hospitalization, but since then, circulating viral strains and population immunity have changed.

Methods
We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov for clinical trials testing nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and molnupiravir for COVID-19. We identified all trials testing nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and molnupiravir in patients with COVID-19 and assessed the pooled efficacy in a meta-analysis. We calculated pooled estimates of hospitalization and death in patients with COVID-19 and the number of studies with published/reported data.

Results
Of the 23 studies found, 11 tested nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, 10 tested molnupiravir, and 2 tested both agents. The pooled estimate in reducing deaths and hospitalization for molnupiravir was 0.62 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.15–2.53), and the pooled estimate for nirmatrelvir/ritonavir was 0.33 (95% CI, 0.03–3.35). The 1 nirmatrelvir/ritonavir trial that reported significant improvements tested people who were predominantly infected with earlier COVID-19 variants, whereas the 2 null trials were tested in people infected with more recent variants. The 2 positive molnupiravir trials included participants primarily with the Delta variant, whereas the null trials were tested later, against more recent variants.

Conclusions
While early trial data show effectiveness of these therapies, the overall pooled effects are nonsignificant, suggesting that recommendations and use of approved oral COVID-19 treatment therapies need to be reevaluated in the context of current viral strains and population immunity.
Thymoma with recurrent opportunistic infections—a case report
Authors: Karjala Sri Lasya , Namala Satya Prasad , Machiraju Phani Krishna , Pandurangan Prabu 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Good’s syndrome (GS) is a rare adult-onset thymoma associated with acquired combined B-cell and T-cell immunodeficiency. It has similarities with Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) in terms of hypogammaglobulinemia and significant risk of invasive bacterial and opportunistic infections. We still have a long way to go in understanding the pathogenesis of Good’s syndrome. Here, we describe a case of a middle-aged female with thymoma and recurrent opportunistic infections. Clinico-laboratory evaluation led to a diagnosis of GS and she showed good response to intravenous immunoglobulin. Clinicians should be aware that thymoma can precede the onset of immunodeficiency.
Ventricular Tachyarrhythmia in a Newborn Baby
Authors: Maclennan Alexander Paul Henning , Sitner-Medvedovsky Emily , Varon Daryelle , Parikh Abhinav , Shah Ankur , Chhabra Manoj 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a narrow QRS complex tachyarrhythmia with a heart rate above 220 beats per minute in infants and children. Ventricular tachycardia can be due to electrolyte abnormalities, cardiomyopathies, congenital heart disease, myocarditis or drug toxicity. Incidence has been estimated to be 1 in 250 to 1 in 1000 with spontaneous resolution in infants by one year of life. We present a full-term neonate who started experiencing a tachyarrhythmia on day zero of life until she reverted to sinus rhythm on day nine of life. The rhythm was most likely a ventricular tachyarrhythmia rather than supraventricular tachycardia due to its unresponsiveness to adenosine, wide QRS complexes, and lack of association with hemodynamic instability. This is a unique case presentation of a ventricular tachyarrhythmia for its diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, it’s idiopathic nature and lack of association with any cardiac compromise, congenital heart disease or electrolyte imbalance.
Secondary corneal keloid: a report of two cases
Authors: Sharifi Ali , Mirshekari Touraj-Reza , Azh Milad , Sadeghi Hamid , Akbari Zahra , Zand Amin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
We conducted clinical and histological evaluations on two male patients who presented with corneal keloid. One patient had a history of corneal trauma due to contact with boiling sunflower oil, while the other had undergone pterygium removal. Upon slit lamp examination, the corneal lesions were identified as single, well-circumscribed, pearly white nodules with a smooth surface. We successfully removed these nodules using a combination of superficial keratectomy and the application of mitomycin C. Light microscopy analysis of the excised nodules revealed hyperplastic epithelium, disrupted Bowman’s layer, and irregularly arranged abundant collagen fibers within the stroma. Notably, there was no recurrence of the lesions in either case within six months following the surgical excision. Secondary corneal keloids should be considered as a potential diagnosis in patients with elevated corneal nodules, especially when there is a history of ocular surface trauma or surgery.
Strengthening the evidence base on the use of digital health technologies to accelerate progress towards universal health coverage
Authors: Forslund Mathilde , Mathieson Kirsten , Djibo Yacine , Mbindyo Caroline , Lugangira Neema , Balasubramaniam Priya 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Digital health and the digital transformation of health systems are an enabler and accelerator to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in low- and middle-income countries. This can help close equity gaps, enhance primary healthcare, and improve efficiency and health outcomes. However, the digital health landscape is characterized by fragmented initiatives and investments, insufficient political will, and inadequate governance of health data. This special collection of Oxford Open Digital Health showcases impacts of digital health interventions and approaches towards expanded healthcare access and improved health outcomes. This commentary makes the case for policy innovation and leadership, improved investments, robust health data governance and a people-centred approach to leverage the benefits of digital health transformation. Prioritizing these areas can enhance the accessibility, affordability, and quality of care, towards UHC goals.