bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Are the Relevant Risk Factors Being Adequately Captured in Empirical Studies of Smoking Initiation? A Machine Learning Analysis Based on the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study
Authors: Le Thuy T T , Issabakhsh Mona , Li Yameng , María Sánchez-Romero Luz , Tan Jiale , Meza Rafael , Levy David , Mendez David 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Introduction
Cigarette smoking continues to pose a threat to public health. Identifying individual risk factors for smoking initiation is essential to further mitigate this epidemic. To the best of our knowledge, no study today has used machine learning (ML) techniques to automatically uncover informative predictors of smoking onset among adults using the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) study.

Aims and Methods
In this work, we employed random forest paired with Recursive Feature Elimination to identify relevant PATH variables that predict smoking initiation among adults who have never smoked at baseline between two consecutive PATH waves. We included all potentially informative baseline variables in wave 1 (wave 4) to predict past 30-day smoking status in wave 2 (wave 5). Using the first and most recent pairs of PATH waves was found sufficient to identify the key risk factors of smoking initiation and test their robustness over time. The eXtreme Gradient Boosting method was employed to test the quality of these selected variables.

Results
As a result, classification models suggested about 60 informative PATH variables among many candidate variables in each baseline wave. With these selected predictors, the resulting models have a high discriminatory power with the area under the specificity-sensitivity curves of around 80%. We examined the chosen variables and discovered important features. Across the considered waves, two factors, (1) BMI, and (2) dental and oral health status, robustly appeared as important predictors of smoking initiation, besides other well-established predictors.

Conclusions
Our work demonstrates that ML methods are useful to predict smoking initiation with high accuracy, identifying novel smoking initiation predictors, and to enhance our understanding of tobacco use behaviors.

Implications
Understanding individual risk factors for smoking initiation is essential to prevent smoking initiation. With this methodology, a set of the most informative predictors of smoking onset in the PATH data were identified. Besides reconfirming well-known risk factors, the findings suggested additional predictors of smoking initiation that have been overlooked in previous work. More studies that focus on the newly discovered factors (BMI and dental and oral health status,) are needed to confirm their predictive power against the onset of smoking as well as determine the underlying mechanisms.
Using Thermal Imaging to Track Cellulitis
Authors: Amendola Julie A , Segre Alberto M , Miller Aaron C , Hodges Jacob T , Comellas Alejandro P , Polgreen Linnea A , Polgreen Philip M 
Published: April 2023

AbstractBackgroundCellulitis is a common soft tissue infection and a major cause of morbidity. The diagnosis is based almost exclusively on clinical history and physical exam. To improve the diagnosis of cellulitis, we used a thermal camera to track how skin temperature of the affected area changed during a hospital stay for patients with cellulitis.MethodsWe recruited 120 patients admitted with a diagnosis of cellulitis. Daily thermal images of the affected limb were taken. Temperature intensity and area were analyzed from the images. Highest daily body temperature and antibiotics administered were also collected.We estimated a longitudinal linear mixed-effects model with a random intercept for the affected body area. All observations on a given day were included, and we used an integer time indicator indexed to the initial day (ie, t = 1 for the first day the patient was observed, etc.). We then analyzed the effect of this time trend on both severity (ie, normalized temperature) and scale (ie, area of skin with elevated temperature).ResultsWe analyzed thermal images from the 41 patients with a confirmed case of cellulitis who had at least 3 days of photos. For each day that the patient was observed, the severity decreased by 1.63 (95% CI, −13.45 to 10.32) units on average, and the scale decreased by 0.63 (95% CI, −1.08 to −0.17) points on average. Also, patients’ body temperatures decreased by 0.28°F each day (95% CI, −0.40 to −0.17).ConclusionsThermal imaging could be used to help diagnose cellulitis and track clinical progress.
Can Oncologists Prompt Patient Prognostic Awareness to Enhance Decision-Making? Data From the NEOetic Study
Authors: Carmona-Bayonas Alberto , Rodriguez-Gonzalez Adán , García-García Teresa , Velasco-Durantez Verónica , Hernández-San Gil Raquel , Cruz-Castellanos Patricia , Fernandez-Montes Ana , Castillo-Trujillo Alfredo , Ballester Inmaculada , Rogado Jacobo , Calderon Caterina , Jimenez-Fonseca Paula 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

Introduction
Anti-neoplastic therapy improves the prognosis for advanced cancer, albeit it is not curative. An ethical dilemma that often arises during patients’ first appointment with the oncologist is to give them only the prognostic information they can tolerate, even at the cost of compromising preference-based decision-making, versus giving them full information to force prompt prognostic awareness, at the risk of causing psychological harm.

Methods
We recruited 550 participants with advanced cancer. After the appointment, patients and clinicians completed several questionnaires about preferences, expectations, prognostic awareness, hope, psychological symptoms, and other treatment-related aspects. The aim was to characterize the prevalence, explanatory factors, and consequences of inaccurate prognostic awareness and interest in therapy.

Results
Inaccurate prognostic awareness affected 74%, conditioned by the administration of vague information without alluding to death (odds ratio [OR] 2.54; 95% CI, 1.47-4.37, adjusted P = .006). A full 68% agreed to low-efficacy therapies. Ethical and psychological factors oriented first-line decision-making, in a trade-off in which some lose quality of life and mood, for others to gain autonomy. Imprecise prognostic awareness was associated with greater interest in low-efficacy treatments (OR 2.27; 95% CI, 1.31-3.84; adjusted P = .017), whereas realistic understanding increased anxiety (OR 1.63; 95% CI, 1.01-2.65; adjusted P = 0.038), depression (OR 1.96; 95% CI, 1.23-3.11; adjusted P = .020), and diminished quality of life (OR 0.47; 95% CI, 0.29-0.75; adjusted P = .011).

Conclusion
In the age of immunotherapy and targeted therapies, many appear not to understand that antineoplastic therapy is not curative. Within the mix of inputs that comprise inaccurate prognostic awareness, many psychosocial factors are as relevant as the physicians’ disclosure of information. Thus, the desire for better decision-making can actually harm the patient.
Novel players in organogenesis and flavonoid biosynthesis in cucumber glandular trichomes
Authors: Feng Zhongxuan , Sun Lei , Dong Mingming , Fan Shanshan , Shi Kexin , Qu Yixin , Zhu Liyan , Shi Jinfeng , Wang Wujun , Liu Yihan , Song Liyan , Weng Yiqun , Liu Xingwang , Ren Huazhong 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Glandular trichomes (GTs) are outgrowths of plant epidermal cells that secrete and store specialized secondary metabolites that protect plants against biotic and abiotic stresses and have economic importance for human use. While extensive work has been done to understand the molecular mechanisms of trichome organogenesis in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), which forms unicellular, nonglandular trichomes (NGTs), little is known about the mechanisms of GT development or regulation of secondary metabolites in plants with multicellular GTs. Here, we identified and functionally characterized genes associated with GT organogenesis and secondary metabolism in GTs of cucumber (Cucumis sativus). We developed a method for effective separation and isolation of cucumber GTs and NGTs. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses showed that flavonoid accumulation in cucumber GTs is positively associated with increased expression of related biosynthesis genes. We identified 67 GT development–related genes, the functions of 7 of which were validated by virus-induced gene silencing. We further validated the role of cucumber ECERIFERUM1 (CsCER1) in GT organogenesis by overexpression and RNA interference transgenic approaches. We further show that the transcription factor TINY BRANCHED HAIR (CsTBH) serves as a central regulator of flavonoid biosynthesis in cucumber GTs. Work from this study provides insight into the development of secondary metabolite biosynthesis in multicellular GTs.
Comparisons as a discursive tool: shaping megaproject narratives in the United Kingdom
Authors: Sergeeva Natalya , Ninan Johan 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
The mobilization of narratives is essential in integrating people and constructing identities that help in navigating complexity, uncertainty, and conflictuality. This paper explores how comparisons are used as a discursive tool to shape narratives and bring about changes in policy and society, using the High Speed Two megaproject in the UK as a case study. We examine the comparisons that promoters and protesters employ in an organizational setting. In particular, we explore how the narratives that result from these comparisons—on questions including the need for the megaproject, the benefits of the megaproject, alternatives to the megaproject, and issues of noise, sustainability, compensation, and branding—help their efforts to organize. The research highlights how comparisons serve as an important cue in discourse and how different forms of comparison can help to create narratives and shape policy outcomes.
Nutri-microbiome epidemiology, an emerging field to disentangle the interplay between nutrition and microbiome for human health
Authors: Gou Wanglong , Miao Zelei , Deng Kui , Zheng Ju-Sheng 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Diet and nutrition have a substantial impact on the human microbiome, and interact with the microbiome, especially gut microbiome, to modulate various diseases and health status. Microbiome research has also guided the nutrition field to a more integrative direction, becoming an essential component of the rising area of precision nutrition. In this review, we provide a broad insight into the interplay among diet, nutrition, microbiome, and microbial metabolites for their roles in the human health. Among the microbiome epidemiological studies regarding the associations of diet and nutrition with microbiome and its derived metabolites, we summarize those most reliable findings and highlight evidence for the relationships between diet and disease-associated microbiome and its functional readout. Then, the latest advances of the microbiome-based precision nutrition research and multidisciplinary integration are described. Finally, we discuss several outstanding challenges and opportunities in the field of nutri-microbiome epidemiology.
No worries with ChatGPT: building bridges between artificial intelligence and education with critical thinking soft skills
Authors: Rusandi M Arli , Ahman  , Saripah Ipah , Khairun Deasy Yunika , Mutmainnah  
Published: April 2023

Abstract
This correspondence discusses the role of artificial intelligence (AI) like ChatGPT in education and research, focusing on developing critical thinking skills and maintaining academic integrity. AI can complement learning and research processes when used ethically and responsibly. Integrating specific teaching methods in education and research can help develop better critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the contexts in which AI is used. The article emphasizes the importance of developing critical thinking skills among students and researchers to effectively use AI and distinguish accurate information from hoaxes and misinformation. In conclusion, the collaboration between AI and humans in learning and research will yield significant benefits for individuals and society as long as critical thinking skills and academic integrity remain top priorities.
Reducing uncertainties in quantitative adverse outcome pathways by analysis of thyroid hormone in the neonatal rat brain
Authors: Ford Jermaine , Riutta Cal , Kosian Patricia A , O’Shaughnessy Katherine , Gilbert Mary 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
A number of xenobiotics interfere with thyroid hormone (TH) signaling. Although adequate supplies of TH are necessary for normal brain development, regulatory reliance on serum TH as proxies for brain TH insufficiency is fraught with significant uncertainties. A more direct causal linkage to neurodevelopmental toxicity induced by TH-system disrupting chemicals is to measure TH in the target organ of most concern, the brain. However, the phospholipid-rich matrix of brain tissue presents challenges for TH extraction and measurement. We report optimized analytical procedures to extract TH in brain tissue of rats with recoveries &gt;80% and low detection limits for T3, rT3, and T4 (0.013, 0.033, and 0.028 ng/g, respectively). Recovery of TH is augmented by enhancing phospholipid separation from TH using an anion exchange column coupled with a stringent column wash. Quality control measures incorporating a matrix-matched calibration procedure revealed excellent recovery and consistency across a large number of samples. Application of optimized procedures revealed age-dependent increases in neonatal brain T4, T3, and rT3 on the day of birth (postnatal day, PN0), PN2, PN6, and PN14. No sex-dependent differences in brain TH were observed at these ages, and similar TH levels were evident in perfused versus non-perfused brains. Implementation of a robust and reliable method to quantify TH in the fetal and neonatal rat brain will aid in the characterization of the thyroid-dependent chemical interference on neurodevelopment. A brain- in addition to a serum-based metric will reduce uncertainties in assessment of hazard and risk on the developing brain posed by thyroid system-disrupting chemicals.
Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses unveil the growth advantage mechanism conferred by heterosis of Michelia ‘Zhongshanhanxiao’
Authors: Chen Tingting , Wang Zhiquan , Wang Junjie , Liu Jiaqi , Zhang Rui , Jia Xiaoyu , Yu Chaoguang , Yin Yunlong , Creech David 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Michelia compressa (Maxim.) Sarg. is one of the important timber trees in Taiwan province, P. R. China. Michelia ‘Zhongshanhanxiao’ is a group of variants found among the progeny of M. compressa that exhibit higher growth rates compared with normal individuals, with a significantly increased stem diameter and height, as well as enlarged leaves and flowers. However, the molecular mechanisms fostering the growth advantage and morphological variations are unknown and deserve further study. Through analysing the transcriptome, metabolome and physiological processes of leaves, we identified remarkable differences in gene expression and metabolic profiles between Michelia ‘Zhongshanhanxiao’ and both the maternal M. compressa and its normal progeny. These differences were widely associated with a plant–pathogen interaction, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, cyanoamino acid metabolism, carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms and plant hormone signal transduction. Additionally, physiological measurements showed that Michelia ‘Zhongshanhanxiao’ possesses stronger photosynthetic capacity and higher plant hormone content. These results suggest that the heterosis of Michelia ‘Zhongshanhanxiao’ is regulated by candidates related to cell division, resistance to pathogens and the accumulation of organic compounds. The findings of this study provide crucial information on the molecular mechanisms underlying the growth advantages conferred by heterosis in trees.
Home or hospital? An observational study of what affects the place of death of people with COVID-19 in Mexico
Authors: Núñez Isaac 
Published: April 2023

ABSTRACT

Background
Out-of-hospital deaths increased during peak coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic periods. However, aside from COVID-19 severity, which variables are related to being hospitalized have not been properly studied. We examine the association of several variables with dying at home from COVID-19 as opposed to in a hospital.

Methods
We used COVID-19 open data from Mexico City from March 2020 until February 2021. A causal model was prespecified to identify variables of interest. Adjusted logistic regressions were performed to calculate ORs for associations between variables of interest and dying out of hospital due to COVID-19.

Results
Among 61 112 people who died due to COVID-19, 8080 died out of hospital. Older age (OR 3.49, age 90 vs 60 y), male sex (OR 1.18) and higher bed occupancy (OR 2.68, 90% vs 50% occupancy) were positively associated with dying outside of hospital.

Conclusion
Older age could confer different patient wishes or less ability to look for healthcare. Higher bed occupancy may have prevented hospital admission from people who required in-hospital care.
Discovery of the Hrp Type III Secretion System in Phytopathogenic Bacteria: How Investigation of Hypersensitive Cell Death in Plants Led to a Novel Protein Injector System and a World of Inter-Organismal Molecular Interactions Within Plant Cells
Authors: Kvitko Brian H. , Collmer Alan 
Published: April 2023

In the early 1960s, Pseudomonas syringae and other host-specific phytopathogenic proteobacteria were discovered to elicit a rapid, resistance-associated death when infiltrated at high inoculum levels into nonhost tobacco leaves. This hypersensitive reaction (or response; HR) was a useful indicator of basic pathogenic ability. Research over the next 20 years failed to identify an elicitor of the HR but revealed that its elicitation required contact between metabolically active bacterial and plant cells. Beginning in the early 1980s, molecular genetic tools were applied to the HR puzzle, revealing the presence in P. syringae of clusters of hrp genes, so named because they are required for the HR and pathogenicity, and of avr genes, so named because their presence confers HR-associated avirulence in resistant cultivars of a host plant species. A series of breakthroughs over the next two decades revealed that (i) hrp gene clusters encode a type III secretion system (T3SS), which injects Avr (now “effector”) proteins into plant cells, where their recognition triggers the HR; (ii) T3SSs, which are typically present in pathogenicity islands acquired by horizontal gene transfers, are found in many bacterial pathogens of plants and animals and inject many effector proteins, which are collectively essential for pathogenicity; and (iii) a primary function of phytopathogen effectors is to subvert non-HR defenses resulting from recognition of conserved microbial features presented outside of plant cells. In the 2000s, Hrp system research shifted to extracellular components enabling effector delivery across plant cell walls and plasma membranes, regulation, and tools for studying effectors. [Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Residency Program Directors’ Views on Research Conducted During Medical School: A National Survey
Authors: Wolfson Rachel K. , Fairchild Paige C. , Bahner Ingrid , Baxa Dwayne M. , Birnbaum Deborah R. , Chaudhry Sarwat I. , Chretien Katherine C. , DeFranco Donald B. , Deptola Amber Z. , LaConte Leslie E.W. , Lin Jenny J. , Petch Lee Leslie , Powers Maureen A. , Ropson Ira J. , Sankaran Saumya M. , Sawarynski Kara E. , Sozio Stephen M. 
Published: April 2023

Purpose
With the United States Medical Licensing Examination Step 1 transition to pass/fail in 2022, uncertainty exists regarding how other residency application components, including research conducted during medical school, will inform interview and ranking decisions. The authors explore program director (PD) views on medical student research, the importance of disseminating that work, and the translatable skill set of research participation.

Method
Surveys were distributed to all U.S. residency PDs and remained open from August to November 2021 to query the importance of research participation in assessing applicants, whether certain types of research were more valued, productivity measures that reflect meaningful research participation, and traits for which research serves as a proxy. The survey also queried whether research would be more important without a numeric Step 1 score and the importance of research vs other application components.

Results
A total of 885 responses from 393 institutions were received. Ten PDs indicated that research is not considered when reviewing applicants, leaving 875 responses for analysis. Among 873 PDs (2 nonrespondents), 358 (41.0%) replied that meaningful research participation will be more important in offering interviews. A total of 164 of 304 most competitive specialties (53.9%) reported increased research importance compared with 99 of 282 competitive (35.1%) and 95 of 287 least competitive (33.1%) specialties. PDs reported that meaningful research participation demonstrated intellectual curiosity (545 [62.3%]), critical and analytical thinking skills (482 [55.1%]), and self-directed learning skills (455 [52.0%]). PDs from the most competitive specialties were significantly more likely to indicate that they value basic science research vs PDs from the least competitive specialties.

Conclusions
This study demonstrates how PDs value research in their review of applicants, what they perceive research represents in an applicant, and how these views are shifting as the Step 1 exam transitions to pass/fail.
Role of JAK-STAT signaling pathway in pathogenesis and treatment of primary Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Li Mucong , Li Mengtao , Qiao Lin , Wu Chanyuan , Xu Dong , Zhao Yan , Zeng Xiaofeng 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a systemic autoimmune disease with high prevalence and possible poor prognosis. Though the pathogenesis of pSS has not been fully elucidated, B cell hyperactivity is considered as one of the fundamental abnormalities in pSS patients. It has long been identified that Janus kinases-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling pathway contributes to rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Recently, increasing numbers of studies have provided evidence that JAK-STAT pathway also has an important role in the pathogenesis of pSS via direct or indirect activation of B cells. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1), STAT3, and STAT5 activated by various cytokines and ribonucleic acid contribute to pSS development, respectively or synergically. These results reveal the potential application of Janus kinase inhibitors for treatment of pSS, which may fundamentally improve the quality of life and prognosis of patients with pSS.