Origin Level Research Articles

Adolescent Depressive Symptoms and Peer Dynamics: Distorted Perceptions in Liking and Disliking Networks.

Depression in adolescents has been linked to poor life outcomes, including suicidal ideation, peer victimization, and fewer friendships. Less is known about how depressed adolescents perceive their peer interactions. Based on the depression-distortion model, we expected that adolescents with depressive symptoms misperceive their social ties by being less likely to like some peers, and more likely to dislike other peers. An Italian dataset about adolescent relationships was used, including 275 first-year secondary school students (M age = 11.80, 46% female) in 12 classrooms across nine schools. Adolescents were asked to nominate classmates they liked and disliked. Longitudinal social network analyses (stochastic actor-oriented models) were conducted, including structural network effects (reciprocity, transitivity, indegree-popularity) and covariates such as gender, immigrant origin, and highest parents' education level. The results indicated that adolescents with depressive symptoms were less likely to send liking nominations, and conversely, they were more likely to send disliking nominations than non-depressed classmates. Interestingly, adolescents with depressive symptoms were not more disliked or less liked by their peers. These findings seem to support the depression-distortion model by suggesting that, compared to non-depressed peers, adolescents with depressive symptoms misperceive their relationships by overstating negative relationships and underestimating positive ones.

Impact of vaginism on mode of delivery and obstetrical outcomes

IntroductionAccording to ICD 10, vaginism is defined as the presence of spasm of the pelvic floor muscles surrounding the vagina, causing occlusion of the vaginal opening. Intromission is impossible or painful. Vaginism, whose prevalence is estimated at 1%, is often diagnosed during pregnancy follow-up, when clinical examination is difficult or impossible. However, few studies report obstetrical complications and pregnancy outcomes associated with this pathology. ObjectiveEvaluate the impact of vaginism on mode of delivery and obstetrical complications. Materials and methodsComparative, monocentric, retrospective study at the Montreuil maternity hospital between January 2019 and January 2024 that included all singleton deliveries in cephalic presentation at term. Vaginism was defined as an involuntary contraction of the pelvic muscles that made clinical examination during pregnancy impossible. Mode of delivery (caesarean section during labour, operative delivery, spontaneous vaginal delivery) and obstetric complications (episiotomy, OASIS, complex tear, Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) due to tear) were compared between patients with vaginism and a control group, in univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression with adjustment for maternal age, BMI, maternal origin, gestational age, high obstetrical and medical risk level, diabetes with or without insulin use, pregnancy complications, Robson group and birthweight. A propensity score adjustment with matching 1 case to 3 controls was conducted. ResultsDuring the study period, 13,469 patients were included, among which 440 patients had vaginism. In univariate analysis, patients with vaginism had a higher rate of caesarean section (16,8% versus 9,4%, p < 0.001), operative delivery (29,3% versus 13,3%, p < 0.001), episiotomy (12,5% versus 5.3 %, p < 0.001), OASIS (3.4 % versus 1.0 %, p < 0.001), complex tear (17,5% versus 7,7%) and PPH due to tear (2,5% versus 1,1%, p = 0,009).After adjustment, vaginism appeared to be an independant risk factor for cesarean section with a psaOR of 1.38 [1.02–1.85], operative delivery psaOR 2.39 [1.83–3,10], OASIS psaOR 2,19 [1.10–4,27], and complex tear psaOR 1,39 [1,02–1,87] ConclusionVaginism appears to be an independent risk factor for cesarean section, operative delivery, OASIS, and complex tear. Further studies should evaluate the impact of early and appropriate follow-up during pregnancy on adverse obstetrical outcomes.

RESEARCH OF GANODERMA LUCIDUM EXTRACTS’ ANTIOXIDATIVE AND MEMBRANE STABILLIZING PROPERTIES IN VITRO CONDITION

The using of bioactive compounds received from natural raw as nutriceutics is aknowledged as well as strengthening, immunomodulatory, adaptogenic agents and in order to reduce the risk of emergence of various diseases. Ganoderma Lucidum or Reishi mushroom is known on east during centuries and has been used in different aims. Modern researches of Reishi mushroom show its high antioxidative potential. Our experiments have shown that extracts made from micelium and fruiting body of ganoderma reduce the intensity of lipoperoxidation in membranes and increase the resistance in vitro conditions.Micelium extract inhibited the level of products of lipoperoxidation up to 37,6% at concentration 10 mkg, 21,1% at 20 mkg, 14,9% at 50 mkg. At influence the same concentrations of ascorbic acid means of level of lipid peroxidation amount 74,3%, 60,4% and 36,4% - respectively, for vitamin E - Е-70,2%, 65,3%, 53,5% and 38%respectively. Antioxidative effect of fruit body’s extract significantly have shown at 10-50 mkg – level of LPO decreased on 80% from origin level, the increasing of concentration from 50 to 100 mkg leaded to practically total inhibition of formation LPO products. At concentrations lower than 10 mkg antioxidative effect of the testing agents didn’t differ significantly. The experiments revealed that the mycelium extracts' antioxidant properties exceed the well-known antioxidant agents such as vitamins E and C, while the extract of the fruit body has a substantially similar effect of ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherolResults of study have shown that extracts of ganoderma possess pronounced property to stabilize the structure of cell membrane. Severity of membrane stabilizing effect of extracts depended on concentration. In concentration 0-200 mkg in samples incubated in the presence of mycelium and fruit body extracts the hemolysis decreased on 19,8% and 25% at 10 mkg, on 27% and 37% at 20 mkg, on 55% and 57,2% at 50 mkg, on 63% and 68% at 100 mkg, on 69% and 65% at 200 mkg respectively, whereas at the introducing in samples the ascorbic acid in analogical concentrations the hemolysis have descended on 10%, 14,5%, 25%, 40% and 44%, and at the cariing in α-tocopherol the hemolysis lowered on 5%, 22%, 32%, 40%, 45% and 50% respectively.The researches of total polyphenols and flavonoids in extracts showed, that in extracts abscent compounds, which are related to flavonoids, whereas have found the existence of another polyphenolic compounds.

Pan-cancer Analysis Reveals m6A Variation and Cell-specific Regulatory Network in Different Cancer Types.

As the most abundant messenger RNA (mRNA) modification, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays a crucial role in RNA fate, impacting cellular and physiological processes in various tumor types. However, our understanding of the role of the m6A methylome in tumor heterogeneity remains limited. Herein, we collected and analyzed m6A methylomes across nine human tissues from 97 m6A sequencing (m6A-seq) and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) samples. Our findings demonstrate that m6A exhibits different heterogeneity in most tumor tissues compared to normal tissues, which contributes to the diverse clinical outcomes in different cancer types. We also found that the cancer type-specific m6A level regulated the expression of different cancer-related genes in distinct cancer types. Utilizing a novel and reliable method called "m6A-express", we predicted m6A-regulated genes and revealed that cancer type-specific m6A-regulated genes contributed to the prognosis, tumor origin, and infiltration level of immune cells in diverse patient populations. Furthermore, we identified cell-specific m6A regulators that regulate cancer-specific m6A and constructed a regulatory network. Experimental validation was performed, confirming that the cell-specific m6A regulator CAPRIN1 controls the m6A level of TP53. Overall, our work reveals the clinical relevance of m6A in various tumor tissues and explains how such heterogeneity is established. These results further suggest the potential of m6A in cancer precision medicine for patients with different cancer types.

Evaluation and determinants of metro users' regularity: Insights from transit one-card data

Regularity is typically defined based on the repetitive travel behavior of individuals, referring to how often travelers would utilize a specific service within a given spatio-temporal context. However, previous research on metro users' regularity primarily utilized basic metric, for example metro trip frequency, to measure regularity. What's more, metro smart card data typically encompasses time, spatial features, and card type information, lacking individual attributes such as age, gender, and type of residence, which limits in-depth analysis correlating individual attributes with travel behavior. The study obtained transit one-card data from Nanjing, China, which enabled us to extract metro user's travel and individual information. Thus, the entropy rate methodology was employed to measure metro users' regularity, while machine learning techniques were used to analyze non-linear effects of built environment, travel-related, and individual attributes on regularity. Results indicate that the built environment, travel-related, and individual attributes account for 66.66%, 33.31%, and 0.03% of the total relative importance, respectively. Two most influential variables impacting regularity, namely entertainment POIs at the origin level (17.77%) and weekdays (17.51%), belong to the built environment and travel-related attributes, respectively. In terms of individual attributes, age exhibits a greater impact on regularity compared to gender and type of residence, manifested in the variation of regularity among different age groups. This finding can assist metro policymakers in understanding metro users' travel behavior, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and optimize the user experience.

Vascular flora of Punta Arenas city: comparative analysis of composition, life forms, and biogeographic origins

The composition of the vascular flora in Punta Arenas city, found in the city’s public spaces, was studied. The species were identified and recorded in a database, which was supplemented with information on taxonomic classification, growth habit, Raunkiaer’s life form, origin status (native or exotic), and original continent-level distribution. These data were compared with studies conducted in five other cities in central Chile, together with an analysis of compositional similarity with these cities, by using the additive complement of Simpson’s index (1– βsim). In Punta Arenas, 119 species were identified, showing a higher proportion of Gymnosperms compared to central Chilean cities. The most represented families were Asteraceae (16 species), Fabaceae (14), Rosaceae (14), Poaceae (12), and Pinaceae (10), which together accounted for 55% of the floristic richness. The compositional similarity between Punta Arenas and the other central Chilean cities ranged from 0.187 to 0.315, showing lower similarity than expected by chance (Montecarlo randomization test; P < 0.05). The primary origin distribution of Punta Arenas’ vascular flora was European, unlike central Chilean cities where it was Asian. Finally, the proportion of exotic species (91.6%) and the number of exotic species per native species (16 exotics/native) were the highest documented for cities in Chile and higher than in other 114 cities worldwide. These results indicate that Punta Arenas’ urban flora differs from the flora in central Chilean cities, not only in taxonomic composition but also in growth habit, biogeographical origin, and high level of exoticism. These differences are likely due to the city’s territorial isolation and extreme southern location (53°S), leading to a unique urban flora configuration.

Variations in origin level of superior mesenteric artery, inferior mesenteric artery, and coeliac trunk in Indian population.

The abdominal aorta is a continuation of the thoracic aorta and gives off the coeliac trunk, superior mesenteric artery, and inferior mesenteric artery. The focus of our study is to evaluate variations in the origin level in the coeliac trunk, superior mesenteric artery, inferior mesenteric artery, and aortic bifurcation in the Indian population and compare with various demographics. The study was retrospective and the local ethics committee approval was taken before starting it. Three hundred patients who were more than 18 years of age and required contrast-enhanced CT studies were included in this. The vertebral origin level of the arteries from the abdominal aorta and aortic bifurcation level was analysed. The most common origin level of the coeliac trunk for both males and females was T12-L1 disc level. The most common origin level of the superior mesenteric artery was L1 upper level. The most common origin level of the inferior mesenteric artery was L3 upper level. The most common level of aortic bifurcation was L4 middle level. There was no statistical difference between the origin of any arteries in males and females in the Indian population. As per our study of the Indian population and the published literature, it is realized that there are significant variations in the origins of the coeliac trunk, superior mesenteric artery, inferior mesenteric artery, and abdominal aorta bifurcation in different populations. This study elaborates on potential anatomical variations in the Indian population, particularly the Mumbai city population. Also, our study compares it to different countries' data and their results in variations found in abdominal aorta branches.

Exploring celiac trunk parameters in median arcuate ligament syndrome: A CT study.

To assess anatomical variations in the celiac trunk (Ct) in patients with Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome (MALS) using computed tomography (CT). The primary objectives were to investigate the celiac trunk angle (CtA), origin level, length (CtL), and their relationships with the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) in MALS patients. Additionally, the study intended to evaluate gender differences in these parameters and explore correlations between variables. Retrospectively, reports of abdominal CT scans taken between January 2018, and Sepmtember 2021, in the hospital image archive were screened vey two observers independently for MALS diagnosis. Parameters such as CtA, CtL, Ct-SMA distance, SMA angle (SMAA), and median arcuate ligament thickness (MALT) were measured. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS software. Among the 81 patients (25 females, 56 males), significant differences were observed in MALT between genders (p = 0.001). CtA showed a negative correlation with CtL and Ct-SMA (p < 0.001), and a positive correlation was found between CtL and Ct-SMA (p = 0.002). CtL was measured as 25mm for the all group. Origin levels of Ct and SMA were evaluated in comparison to vertebral levels. Ct-SMA distance was relatively shorter (9.19mm) compared to the literature. SMAA findings were consistent with normal population values. This study provided valuable insights into the anatomical parameters of the Ct ans SMA in MALS patients. Despite some differences compared to normal population parameters, no evidence supported the hypothesis of a superiorly placed Ct contributing to MALS.

Abstract 19: Time-Varying Exposure to Food Retailers and Cardiovascular Disease Incidence and Mortality in the Netherlands: A Nationwide Prospective Cohort Study

Background: The food environment is suggested as a risk factor of cardiovascular disease (CVD), but current evidence is inconsistent and does not account for changes in the food environment. We aimed to explore if time-varying exposure to the food environment was associated with hospitalisation and mortality due to total and specific types of CVD in The Netherlands. We hypothesized that favourable time-varying trends in food environment exposure would be associated with decreased risk of CVD, stroke, heart failure (HF), and coronary heart disease (CHD) morbidity and mortality among the Dutch general population. Methods: A prospective cohort study was performed among all Dutch residents aged 35+ years who did not change residence in 2002-2018 without CVD in 2004, identified through registry data from Statistics Netherlands (n=4,641,435; 51.3% female, 91.2% Dutch). Time-varying Food Environment Healthiness Index (FEHI) scores (range: -5 to 5) and time-varying Kernel density of six specific food retailers (food delivery outlets, fast food outlets, restaurants, local food shops, supermarkets and convenience stores) around the home location were based on bi-annual updates between 2004-2018. Hospitalisation and mortality due to overall CVD, stroke, HF, and CHD occurring between 2004 and 2020 were used as outcomes, based on hospital and death registries. Models were adjusted for age, sex, ethnic origin, household composition, income, marital status and neighbourhood urbanisation level and effect modification by age, sex, urbanization and income was studied. Results: Each unit increase in the FEHI, representing a 10% improvement, was associated with a lower hospitalisation and mortality of CVD (hospitalization Hazard Ratio (HR h )=0.90, 0.89-0.91, mortality Hazard Ratio (HR m )=0.85, 0.82-0.89), CHD (HR h =0.88, 0.85-0.91, HR m =0.80, 0.75-0.86), stroke (HR h =0.89, 0.84-0.93, HR m =0.89, 0.82-0.98), and HF (HR h =0.90, 0.84-0.96, HR m =0.84, 0.76-0.92). Increased density of local food shops, fast food outlets, supermarkets and convenience stores, and decreased density of food delivery outlets and restaurants were associated with a higher risk of CVD, CHD, stroke and HF incidence and mortality, albeit with small effect sizes. Stratified analyses suggest slightly stronger associations in highly urbanized areas, younger adults and those with higher incomes. Conclusions: Favourable trends in time-varying food retailer exposure were associated with a risk reduction in CVD hospitalisation and mortality, in particular in urbanized areas and for younger adults and those with higher incomes.

A radio-anatomical study of median arcuate ligament syndrome: unveiling the morphology and morphometry of median arcuate ligament, celiac trunk, and superior mesenteric artery.

In the context of medical literature, a significant lacuna exists in understanding median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS). While clinical aspects are well documented, literature lacks a robust exploration of the anatomical relationship between the celiac trunk and the median arcuate ligament (MAL). Morphometric parameters, including the vertebral level of MAL origin, MAL thickness, celiac trunk (CeT) origin level, diameter, and distances between CeT/Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA) and the MAL center were observed on 250 CT angiograms. Cadavers (n = 11) were dissected to examine the same parameters and histo-morphological examination of MAL tissue was done. Radiological findings established average MAL thickness of 7.79 ± 2.58mm. The celiac trunk typically originated at T12. The average distance between the celiac trunk and the MAL center was 1.32 ± 2.04mm. The angle of the celiac trunk to the abdominal aorta was primarily obtuse. The average celiac trunk diameter was 5.53 ± 1.33mm. Histological examinations revealed a diverse MAL composition, indicating variable mechanical properties. This study provides comprehensive morphometric data on the anatomical relationship between the MAL and the celiac trunk. In contrast to available literature which says the average MAL thickness of > 4mm is an indicator of increased thickness, we observed much higher average thickness in the studied population. The findings contribute to a better understanding of normal anatomical variations which can serve as reference values for accurate radiological diagnosis of MALS. The histological examination revealed the heterogeneous nature of the MAL tissue composition, suggesting variable mechanical properties and functions in different regions.

Blood flow and emboli transport patterns during venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A computational fluid dynamics study

ProblemDespite advances in Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO), a significant mortality rate persists due to complications. The non-physiological blood flow dynamics of VA-ECMO may lead to neurological complications and organ ischemia. Continuous retrograde high-flow oxygenated blood enters through a return cannula placed in the femoral artery which opposes the pulsatile deoxygenated blood ejected by the left ventricle (LV), which impacts upper body oxygenation and subsequent hyperoxemia. The complications underscore the critical need to comprehend the impact of VA-ECMO support level and return cannula size, as mortality remains a significant concern. AimThe aim of this study is to predict and provide insights into the complications associated with VA-ECMO using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. These complications will be assessed by characterising blood flow and emboli transport patterns through a comprehensive analysis of the influence of VA-ECMO support levels and arterial return cannula sizes. MethodsPatient-specific 3D aortic and major branch models, derived from a male patient's CT scan during VA-ECMO undergoing respiratory dysfunction, were analyzed using CFD. The investigation employed species transport and discrete particle tracking models to study ECMO blood (oxygenated) mixing with LV blood (deoxygenated) and to trace emboli transport patterns from potential sources (circuit, LV, and aorta wall). Two cannula sizes (15 Fr and 19 Fr) were tested alongside varying ECMO pump flow rates (50%, 70%, and 90% of the total cardiac output). ResultsCannula size did not significantly affect oxygen transport. At 90% VA-ECMO support, all arteries distal to the aortic arch achieved 100% oxygen saturation. As support level decreased, oxygen transport to the upper body also decreased to a minimum saturation of 73%. Emboli transport varied substantially between emboli origin and VAECMO support level, with the highest risk of cerebral emboli coming from the LV with a 15 Fr cannula at 90% support. ConclusionArterial return cannula sizing minimally impacted blood oxygen distribution; however, it did influence the distribution of emboli released from the circuit and aortic wall. Notably, it was the support level alone that significantly affected the mixing zone of VA-ECMO and cardiac blood, subsequently influencing the risk of embolization of the cardiogenic source and oxygenation levels across various arterial branches.

Comparative analysis of Argentinian and European populations of Ramularia collo‐cygni on barley

AbstractRamularia collo‐cygni (Rcc) is a major barley pathogen that causes yield and grain quality losses worldwide. The main sources of Rcc inoculum are the seed and asexual airborne spores. In Argentina, Rcc is considered to be an emerging threat to barley crops, especially as most varieties are susceptible to Rcc and have a European genetic background. Here, we describe the population genetic diversity and structure of the Argentinian Rcc population, based on 10 simple‐sequence repeat (SSR) markers, in order to compare it with Rcc populations from the Czech Republic and Scotland. The Argentinian Rcc population showed lower genetic diversity, higher level of structuring and higher number of clonal isolates than European populations. Significant differentiation at population origin (country) and region (Europe and South America) level suggests the occurrence of a genetic bottleneck and/or a founder effect on Rcc entry to Argentina and that this population could still be in a state of establishment and emergence. Further research on Rcc genetic structure at local and global scale will be crucial for the understanding of Rcc population dynamics for disease management.

The Relationship between Age, Gender, Prestige, Social Media, Area of Origin, Level of English Proficiency and the Use of White Language in Riyadh City in Saudi Arabia

The present study is conducted in order to explore the use of white language, which is defined as an Arabic language which contains the use of English words while using Arabic and that lacks any particular regional accent, vocabulary, or any other regional characteristics. Furthermore, it examined the relationship between the white language and the following: age, gender, prestige, social media, area of origin and English level of proficiency. The study used a quantitative research approach. In order to provide the data needed, the current study used a questionnaire as its instrument. The study sample included 627 citizens of Riyadh city. The findings of the study revealed that the sample was neutral to the use of white language. That is, sometimes they use it, and they do not use it. Furthermore, the analysis of the data showed that there was a relationship between social media, prestige and white language; participants who used social media more and who perceived white language as a prestigious language tended to use it more. In addition, it was revealed that there was a relationship between age and white language; as age increases, white language usage decreases. From the analysis, it was found that there were no differences between different areas of origin in the use of white language; however, there were differences in the use of non-regional vocabulary between central and southern areas of origin. Moreover, the findings uncovered the relationship between white language and the level of English proficiency; participants with a high command of English tend to use white language more. However, the results showed that the level of English proficiency has no relationship with the use of non-regional vocabulary. Finally, the findings further indicated that there were no differences between males and females in the use of white language. However, the findings suggested that there were differences between males and females in their use of code-switching.

Unravelling the potential of yolkin for nutraceutical use: the origin, structure, and functional insights of a hen egg yolk polypeptide complex.

Nutraceuticals can reduce the risk of many diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, immune deficiencies, neurodegeneration, and others. Their delivery remains a challenge because it depends on many factors, most notably the stability of the bioactive compounds. Yolkin is a peptide complex isolated from hen egg yolk with immunomodulatory and neuroprotective potential. However, yolkin remains relatively poorly characterized. We aimed to determine the origin and glycosylation level of yolkin, its storage conditions, its thermal stability, and its aggregation ability and to assess its antioxidant, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic potential. The peptide composition of yolkin was shown to be homologous to that of vitellogenin II and vitellogenin I. These results indicate the stability of yolkin in a lyophilized form, preferably at 4 °C, with nonaggregation, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities. As a result, yolkin can be considered to have significant therapeutic potential and represents a valuable tool for the development of novel nutraceuticals.

Metrics for Quantifying Shareability in Transportation Networks: The Maximum Network Flow Overlap Problem

Cities around the world vary in terms of the structure of their transportation networks and travel demand patterns. Despite these variations significantly impacting opportunities for travelers to share trips, no metrics are available to jointly characterize a region’s transportation network and travel demand in terms of the potential for travelers to share space with each other on network links, or what we call person-trip shareability. This study proposes metrics to quantify the shareability of person-trips in a city subregion, as a function of three inputs—the underlying transportation network, origin–destination (OD) travel demand, and a maximum permissible detour parameter. After defining person-trip shareability and providing principles for operationalizing this definition, we formulate a fundamental metric, called flow overlap. Flow overlap measures, for a person-trip traversing a given path, the weighted (by link distance) average number of other person-trips sharing the links along the original person-trip’s path. We then formulate the Maximum Network Flow Overlap Problem (MNFLOP), a math program that assigns person-trips to network paths that maximize network-wide flow overlap. We utilize the MNFLOP output to calculate shareability metrics at various levels of aggregation: person-trip level, OD level, origin or destination level, network level, and link level. The study applies the MNFLOP and associated shareability metrics to different OD demand scenarios in the Sioux Falls network. The computational results verify that MNFLOP (i) assigns person-trips to paths such that flow overlaps significantly increase relative to shortest path assignment, (ii) can meaningfully differentiate between different OD trip matrices in terms of flow overlap, and (iii) metrics can meaningfully quantify demand dispersion from a single network node/location considering the underlying road network. Finally, we validate MNFLOP’s ability to quantify shareability by showing that demand patterns with higher flow overlap are strongly associated with lower mileage routes for a last-mile microtransit service. The paper includes an extensive discussion of other potential future uses of the MNFLOP and its associated shareability metrics.

Adaptive differentiation on serpentine soil in diploid versus autotetraploid populations of Biscutella laevigata (Brassicaceae)

Serpentine soils exhibit extreme properties (e.g. high magnesium content) influencing plant growth and survival, and have been repeatedly documented to promote adaptive edaphic differentiation in plants. Individuals from four pairs of nearby diploid and autotetraploid populations of Biscutella laevigata sampled on serpentine versus non‐serpentine soils in a factorial design are used to assess the genetic and phenotypic changes associated with edaphic origin and ploidy level. Individual samples from natural populations were subjected to soil elemental analysis and genotyping using restriction site‐associated DNA sequences (RAD‐seq) to link genetic variation with contrasting soils and ploidy levels. In diploids, genetic variation was consistent with demographic contraction and a pattern of isolation by environment with respect to the ratio of calcium/magnesium concentrations, whereas tetraploids presented evidence of expansion with limited edaphic differentiation. The genetic basis of tolerance and adaptation to serpentine was further assessed experimentally on seed‐grown individuals from all populations subjected to high (serpentine‐like) versus low (control) concentrations of magnesium in hydropony. Fitness‐related phenotypic traits under experimental cultivation were consistent with adaptive differentiation among diploid ecotypes but not among the tetraploids that similarly grow in both habitats and consistently present higher investment in roots. Further work comparing experimentally resynthesized polyploids to natural diploids and polyploids would help to tease the role of whole genome duplication apart from the effects of post‐polyploidy evolution.

Ureaplasma-Induced Hyperammonemia Syndrome - an Acute Complication Post Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant

Hyperammonemia syndrome is characterized by elevated serum ammonia levels and neurological dysfunction due to cerebral encephalopathy, andcauses lethargy, confusion, hyperventilation, seizures, death. In solid organ transplantation, hyperammonemia syndrome has been reported as a potentially fatal complication secondary to Ureaplasma infection ( Ureaplasma urealyticum or parvum). We present a patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who underwent allogeneic stem cell transplant (HSCT) and developed hyperammonemia syndrome during systemic infection with Ureaplasma urealyticum. A 32-year-old female with B-ALL received a haploidentical HSCT complicated by stage II acute GvHD of the gut and skin. During her hospital course, on Day +43, cellulitis of the right arm was diagnosed and treated empirically with amoxicillin-clavulanate on discharge. She presented back to the hospital on Day +53 with bilateral elbow pain and cellulitis. She had no focal neurological deficits initially but became increasing drowsy with dilated pupils. She had no episodes of sustained fever throughout her hospitalization. Empiric antimicrobial coverage with Meropenem and Vancomycin was given, and she was intubated and admitted to the ICU all on the same day. CT head was normal, and blood cultures and lumbar puncture were negative. She developed status epilepticus and her ammonia level increased to &amp;gt;1500 μmol/L on Day +57. Liver function, renal function and extended electrolytes remained within normal limits. MRI was consistent with hyperammonemic encephalopathy, prompting initiation of intermittent hemodialysis, lactulose, Rifaximin, and L-carnitine. EEG revealed no discernible rhythms, and intensive life support was discontinued on Day +61. PCR testing of preserved lung tissue confirmed Ureaplasma urealyticum as the likely cause. Ureaplasma infections can be a serious complication of HSCT. The hydrolysis of urea by U reaplasma leads to elevated serum ammonia levels when systemic infections occur in immunocompromised patients. HSCT patients often have hypogammaglobulinemia due to conditioning and immunosuppressive therapies with a reduced ability to neutralize Ureaplasma. The role of neutrophil in controlling Ureaplasma is limited, as antibody-mediated defence is the sole mechanism of protection. Other contributing factors that can exacerbate hyperammonemia include Valproic acid, severe liver disease, and TPN. Ureaplasma is challenging to diagnose due to limited growth on standard culture medium PCR testing is required for diagnosis and was the method of detection in our reported case. Numerous cases in non-HSCT immunocompromised populations have reported soft tissue infections involving Ureaplasma species, indicating a possible source for infection in the current case. Although there are no other reported cases of cellulitis and Ureaplasma infection in HSCT, a previous case with polyarthritic involvement may be mechanistically similar. A literature review was completed with results presented in Table 1 outlining details of reported cases with confirmed Ureaplasma infection post-HSCT. The cases were quite heterogenous although two of the cases were treated for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma where they were heavily pretreated with agents targeting B-Cells and immunoglobulin production. Empirical doxycycline should be considered first line due to the Ureaplasma resistance to other agents such as Azathioprine. Beta-lactam antibiotics and vancomycin have limited efficacy as Ureaplasma's does not have a cell wall. Adjunct therapies to reduce ammonia production and increase elimination should also be considered. Ureaplasma should be considered in immunocompromised patients in the context of fever of unknown origin and altered level of consciousness, especially if rising serum ammonia levels and soft tissue infections is present. The overall 50% mortality associated with the six cases presented demonstrates the significant risk associated with the infection.

Is There a Convergence between the Food Classification Adopted by Food-Based Dietary Guidelines and Food Science and Technology?

The World Health Organization (WHO) proposed the dietary guidelines presented as the Food-based Dietary Guidelines (FBDG). The FBDG classify foods according to their origin, nature, nutrient source, food group, and processing level. Food science and technology (FST) ranks food according to its origin, perishability, nutrient source, processing, food group, and formulation. This paper aimed to compare the convergence points for food classification according to the FBDG and FST. This study was carried out in two phases. The first step was identifying the Food-Based Dietary Guidelines (FBDG). For each of the FBDG, food items were grouped as fruits, vegetables, cereals, sugars, fat and oils, legumes, foods from animals, dairy products, and others. The second step aimed to identify and describe the different food classification systems. The search was performed on PubMed®, Science Direct, and Web of Science and websites of international organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Codex Alimentarius. Our results show that the points of convergence between the classifications were the classification in terms of origin (animal and vegetable), nutrient sources, and food groups. However, inconsistencies were observed for the distribution of food items in each group in the 98 surveyed FBDG. As for nature, there was a convergence for in natura, minimally processed, and processed foods. However, the criteria adopted for minimally processed and processed foods described in the FBDG differ from those considered by the FST. FST also does not recognize the classification of foods concerning the level of processing.

Practice Patterns and Disparities of Fractionation Schemes for Post-Mastectomy Comprehensive Nodal Irradiation

Hypofractionated (HF) radiotherapy is the established standard of care for whole breast irradiation and is being investigated for comprehensive nodal irradiation, but appropriate patient selection for the latter is currently undefined. This study aims to report national practice patterns and patient selection for HF comprehensive nodal irradiation compared to conventional fractionation (CF). The hypothesis is that the rate of HF for comprehensive nodal irradiation in breast cancer has been increasing over time and is more likely to be offered to disparate demographic populations. We queried the National Cancer Database and identified 128,693 patients who received comprehensive nodal irradiation between 2008-2016 in the United States. No patient who underwent lumpectomy received HF nodal irradiation; therefore, only post-mastectomy patients were included in this study. After the exclusion, 29,053 post-mastectomy patients with adjuvant comprehensive nodal irradiation remained. A multivariable binomial regression analysis between HF and CF patients was performed. Of the patients identified, 1,910 received HF (6.57%), and 27,143 received CF (93.43%) radiotherapy. All patients had locally advanced breast cancer treated with mastectomy, lymph node dissection, adjuvant radiation, and +/- chemotherapy. The median dose in the HF group was 4,256 cGy in 16 fractions, and in the CF group was 6,040 cGy in 33 fractions. HF rate grew from 3.56% in 2004-2007, 5.29% in 2008-2011, 7.42% in 2012-2013, and 12.05% in 2014-2016. HF was favored in older patients (median age 66 vs. 51, OR = 1.16, 95% Cl 1.11-1.22) and those who lived in suburban or rural regions compared to urban or metropolitan regions (OR = 9.48, 95% CI 1.17-76.9). However, there was no correlation when distance from treatment site was evaluated as a continuous variable. A "boost" dose was used in only 10.58% of HF patients compared to 54.6% of CF patients (OR = 0.17, 95% Cl 0.14-0.21). Chemotherapy was delivered in 36.91% of HF patients compared to 78.14% of CF patients (OR = 0.77, 95% Cl 0.59-0.99). There were no statistically significant correlates of either fractionation scheme for breast laterality, stage, grade, or receptor status. Notably, other than population density and age, demographic factors including race, Hispanic origin, insurance type, median income, and education level demonstrated no correlation with radiation fractionation scheme. HF for comprehensive nodal irradiation in breast cancer is still uncommon but growing in popularity. Currently, HF is more likely to be used in elderly patients and lower population density centers and less likely to be used in those determined to benefit from receipt of a boost or chemotherapy.

Occupational health assessment summary designed for semantic interoperability

BackgroundGeopolitical and economic crises force a growing number of people to leave their countries and search better employment opportunities abroad. Meanwhile, the highly competitive labor market provides opportunities for employees to change workplaces and job positions. Health assessment data collected during the occupational history is an essential resource for developing efficient occupational disease prevention strategies as well as for ensuring the physical and psychological well-being of newly appointed workers. The diversity in data representation is source for interoperability problems that are insufficiently explored in the existing literature. ObjectivesThis research aims to design a worker’s occupational health assessment summary (OHAS) dataset that satisfies the requirements of an international standard for semantic interoperability in the use case for exchanging extracts of such data. The focus is on the need for a common OHAS standard at EU level allowing seamless exchange of OHAS at both cross-border and at the worker’s country of origin level. ResultsThis paper proposes a novelty systematic approach ensuring semantic interoperability in the exchange of OHAS. Two use cases are explored in terms of UML sequence diagram. The OHAS dataset reflects common data requirements established in the national legislation of EU countries. Finally, an EN 13606 archetype of OHAS is designed by satisfying the requirements for semantic interoperability in the exchange of clinical data. Semantic interoperability of OHAS is demonstrated with realistic use case data. ConclusionsThe designed static, non-volatile and reusable information model of OHAS developed in this paper allows to create EN 13606 archetype instances that are valid with respect to the Reference model and the datatypes of this standard. Thus, basic activities in the OHAS use case can be implemented in software, for example, by means of a native XML database as well as integrated into existing information systems.