Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Differences in Healthcare Access, Use, and Experiences Within a Community Sample of Racially Diverse Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning Emerging Adults.

PURPOSE Health services research involving lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) individuals has focused on differences in healthcare access, use, and experiences between cisgender, heterosexual adults and LGBTQ adults. Yet these factors may differ within the LGBTQ community and have not been well-studied among emerging adults (18-29 years), a group with unique barriers to healthcare. We sought to characterize healthcare challenges within a sample of LGBTQ emerging adults. METHODS From 2012 to 2013, 206 participants aged 18-27 (86% racial/ethnic minority, 10% transgender) completed questionnaires assessing healthcare access, use, and experiences during a longitudinal study. Descriptive statistics established patterns of healthcare access, use, and experiences, and nonparametric tests examined differences related to sociodemographic variables, HIV status, sexual orientation identity, and gender identity. RESULTS Overall, 68% of participants reported relatively easy access to care. White and bisexual participants reported higher rates of insurance than racial/ethnic minority (P = 0.01) and gay or lesbian participants (P = 0.005), respectively. Although most participants did not report having negative experiences in healthcare settings related to their LGBTQ identity, transgender participants were more likely to delay care (P < 0.001) and report negative effects of disclosure to their provider (P < 0.001) compared with cisgender participants. Participants who identified as queer or were questioning their sexual orientation identity reported negative healthcare experiences more frequently than LGB-identified participants (P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Although LGBTQ emerging adults experienced fewer barriers to care than observed in previous studies on LGBTQ adults, the results suggest that queer, questioning, and transgender individuals may face additional healthcare challenges compared with their LGB and cisgender counterparts.
Lipid‐Modifying Effects of Chitosan Supplementation in Humans: A Pooled Analysis with Trial Sequential Analysis

SCOPE We performed a pooled analysis with trial sequential analysis (TSA) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of chitosan supplementation on serum lipids in humans. METHODS AND RESULTS Medline, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases were queried. Impact was expressed as a weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Sensitivity analysis was conducted using the leave-one-out method. Statistical heterogeneity, publication bias, TSA, and subgroup analyses were also assessed. Fourteen trials (21 treatment arms) encompassing 1108 participants were suitable for statistical pooling. Chitosan supplementation significantly improved the total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) concentrations in all patients. The WMDs were -0.20 mmol L-1 (95% CI, -0.35 to -0.05; p = 0.009) for TC, and -0.20 mol L-1 (95% CI, -0.26 to -0.15; p = 0.0001) for LDL-C, respectively. TSA demonstrated that the cumulative Z-curve crossed the trial sequential monitoring boundary for benefit providing conclusive evidence for the benefit of chitosan. However, no significant changes were seen with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglycerides. Our findings were robust after sensitivity analyses, and no serious adverse events were reported with chitosan intake. CONCLUSION Supplementation with chitosan effectively reduces plasma concentrations of TC and LDL-C. Current evidence indicates daily chitosan supplementation as a candidate for therapeutic lipid management strategies.
The differential effects of green tea on dose-dependent doxorubicin toxicity

Background Doxorubicin (DOX) is an anticancer drug displaying cardiac and hepatic adverse effects mostly dependent on oxidative stress. Green tea (GT) has been reported to play a protective role in diseases resulting from oxidative stress. Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate if GT protects against DOX-induced oxidative stress, heart and liver morphological changes, and metabolic disorders. Methods Male Wistar rats received intraperitoneal injection of DOX (1.0 or 2.0 mg/kg b.w.) for 7 weeks or concomitantly GT extract soluble in drinking water. Results There were multidirectional effects of GT on blood metabolic parameters changed by DOX. Among all tested biochemical parameters, statistically significant protection of GT against DOX-induced changes was revealed in case of blood fatty acid–binding protein, brain natriuretic peptide, and superoxide dismutase. Conclusion DOX caused oxidative stress in both organs. It was inhibited by GT in the heart but remained unchanged in the liver. DOX-induced general toxicity and histopathological changes in the heart and in the liver were mitigated by GT at a higher dose of DOX and augmented in rats treated with a lower dose of the drug.
Generalized Proca action for an Abelian vector field

We revisit the most general theory for a massive vector field with derivative self-interactions, extending previous works on the subject to account for terms having trivial total derivative interactions for the longitudinal mode. In the flat spacetime (Minkowski) case, we obtain all the possible terms containing products of up to five first-order derivatives of the vector field, and provide a conjecture about higher-order terms. Rendering the metric dynamical, we covariantize the results and add all possible terms implying curvature.
The mitochondrial genome of the bloom-forming green alga Ulva prolifera

Abstract From 2007 to 2015, massive green tides formed by Ulva prolifera O.F. Müller have broken out for nine consecutive years in the Yellow Sea of China. Here, we determined the complete mitochondrial genome sequence of U. prolifera. The circular U. prolifera mitogenome is 63 845 bp in size, with the overall A + T content of 66.04% which is similar to the other three ulvophyceans (60.66%–67.83%). The mitogenome encodes 74 genes and the coding sequences account for 77.3% of the genome. Nine introns are identified in five genes and each of these introns contains an ORF. Two long tandem repeats identified have a period of 11 bp with a copy number of 62.5 and 19.5, respectively. The genome organization of U. prolifera is similar to that in Ulva sp. , and its reduced spacer region makes it more compact than the latter. The present data will provide important information on phylogenetics and molecular evolution of Ulva species.
Influence of 6% Hydroxyethyl Starch 130/0.4 Versus Crystalloid Solution on Structural Renal Damage Markers After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: A Post Hoc Subgroup Analysis of a Prospective Trial.

OBJECTIVE The restriction of hydroxyethyl starch (HES) has mandated changes in volume management based on data of critically ill patients. Reliable data of structural renal damage after HES treatment in cardiac surgical patients are lacking. The influence of 6% HES 130/0.4 was investigated in this study. DESIGN An exploratory post hoc subgroup analysis of a prospective trial was performed. SETTING The study was carried out at a university hospital. PARTICIPANTS Forty-four low-risk cardiac surgical patients were examined. INTERVENTIONS Twenty-two patients received only crystalloid solutions, and 22 were treated with balanced 6% HES 130/0.4. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Functional renal parameters and the structural biomarkers α-glutathione S-transferase, kidney injury molecule-1, liver fatty acid-binding protein, and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin were investigated. Volume balances, vasopressor dosages, blood losses, and coagulation parameters were compared. Most functional and structural renal parameters did not differ between the groups (serum creatinine p = 0.8380). Liver fatty acid-binding protein was transiently higher in the HES group only at 24 hours postoperatively (p = 0.0002). No differences in mortality, acute kidney injury, and need for renal replacement therapy were observed. Blood coagulation was significantly more compromised in the HES group at intensive care unit arrival (factor II, p = 0.0012; factor X, p = 0.0031; thrombocytes, p = 0.0010). Blood losses, and vasopressor dosages tended to be higher in HES-treated patients without significance. CONCLUSION Overall, the values and time courses of the biomarkers used did not indicate evidence of a mechanism for tubular injury caused by HES.
Overexpression of ZRF1 is related to tumor malignant potential and a poor outcome of gastric carcinoma

Zuotin-related factor 1 (ZRF1) is a recently characterized epigenetic factor involved in transcriptional regulation and is highly overexpressed in several malignancies, but it is not known whether it plays a role in gastric cancer (GC). In this study, we investigated whether ZRF1 acts as a cancer-promoting gene through its activation/overexpression in GC. We analyzed five GC cell lines and 133 primary tumors, which had been curatively resected in our hospital between 2001 and 2003. Overexpression of ZRF1 was detected in GC cell lines (four out of five lines, 80.0%) and was detected in primary tumor samples of GC (52 out of 133 cases, 39.1%) and significantly correlated with differentiated histological type, venous invasion, lymphatic invasion, advanced stage and a higher recurrence rate. ZRF1-overexpressing tumors had a worse survival rate than those with non-expressing tumors (P < 0.01, log-rank test). ZRF1 positivity was independently associated with a worse outcome in the multivariate analysis (P < 0.01; hazard ratio 4.92; 95% confidence interval: 1.6-21.1). In ZRF1-overexpressing GC cells, knockdown of ZRF1 using specific siRNAs inhibited the cell proliferation, migration and invasion and induced apoptosis in a p53-dependent manner. These findings suggest that ZRF1 plays a crucial role in tumor malignant potential through its overexpression and highlight its usefulness as a prognostic factor and potential therapeutic target in GC.
Time spent by patients in a pre-anaesthetic clinic and the factors affecting it: An audit from a tertiary care teaching hospital

Background and Aims: Patient satisfaction from a pre-anaesthetic clinic (PAC) visit is greatly influenced by time spent there. We aimed to determine time spent in a PAC without an appointment system and the factors affecting the same. Methods: Four hundred and eight patients coming to PAC were tracked using a time-motion study model. Time spent in waiting and consultation was recorded. Independent variables potentially affecting time spent were documented. Patients were grouped based on independent variables, and the groups were compared for significant differences using appropriate statistical tests. Workload pending on physicians was calculated on an hourly basis by counting number of patients waiting and number of physicians in PAC. Results: Non-parametric statistical tests were used for analysis because the data were not normally distributed. The median and inter-quartile range for waiting time, consultation time and total time were 60 (30–90) minutes, 17 (12–26) minutes and 79 (53–111) minutes, respectively. There was considerable variation in all three. Waiting time was significantly lower in patients posted for same-day surgery or those arriving on a stretcher or wheelchair. Consultation time was correlated with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status and grade of surgery. Most patients arrived in the morning rather than at equal intervals. Waiting time and workload were therefore maximum in the midmorning and dropped rapidly in the afternoon. Conclusion: Large variability in waiting time is linked to lack of an appointment system, and to patients being seen out of turn.
Correlates and importance of neglect-like symptoms in complex regional pain syndrome

Abstract Neglect-like symptoms (NLS) are frequently observed in complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). The clinical meaning of NLS, however, is largely unknown. Therefore, this study sets out to assess the importance of NLS for patient outcome and to explore their clinical correlates. We assessed NLS in a group of 53 patients with CRPS and compared the results to 28 healthy volunteers. To define the origin of the NLS reports, we tested the subjective visual midline, performed a limb-laterality recognition test, and quantitative sensory testing. In addition, psychological and pain assessment scales were completed. Tests were analyzed with univariate and multivariate approaches. After 6 months, patients were reassessed and the influence of NLS on pain outcome was determined. Most patients reported NLS in the questionnaire, whereas subjective visual midline and limb-laterality recognition test in contrast to previous studies did not reveal perceptual disturbances. Neglect-like symptom scores were associated with pain and pain catastrophizing in acute CRPS and anxiety and thermal sensory loss in chronic CRPS. Furthermore, high NLS scores had a negative impact on pain outcome after 6 months. Our results indicate that NLS have a different meaning in acute and chronic CRPS and might be of prognostic value. Possibly, treatment should focus on reducing NLS.
Age Affects the Mitigating Efficacy of Riboflavin Against Cisplatin-Induced Toxicity In Vivo

ABSTRACT Cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (CP), a prominent anticancer drug, exerts toxic insults that are functional to various factors that compromise its antineoplastic activity. Riboflavin (RF) is an essential vitamin and photosensitizer that ameliorates CP-induced toxic insults in vivo in a dose-dependent manner. The aim of the present study is to investigate how age can influence the ameliorative effect of RF against CP-induced toxicity. Ninety male mice were divided into three age groups: young, adult, and old for the present investigation under an established treatment strategy with CP, RF, and their combinations under photoillumination for 1 mo. Their kidneys and serum samples were assessed for redox status [superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde (MDA), carbonyl contents, and glutathione-S-transferase], biochemical analysis (renal function markers—nitric oxide), comet assay, and histopathology. The adult group showed not only the strongest resistance against the CP-induced toxicity but also the better ameliorative effect of RF followed by the young and old groups, respectively, with well-maintained redox status concomitant with the level of renal function markers, MDA, and carbonyl contents near the control values. Furthermore, comet assay and histopathological evaluation confirmed the results in a dose-dependent manner. Hence, age is an important patient-related factor that can influence the final clinical outcome under personalized chemoradiotherapy.
The association between smoking and psychopathology adjusted for body mass index and gender

Objective: This study examined the correlation between smoking habits and psychopathology status, as well as the impact of confounders such as body mass index and gender. Method: A total of 134 non-smokers and 152 smokers were enrolled in this study. We measured psychopathology features using Symptom Checklist 90-Revised. We ran logistic regression models testing the smoking–psychopathology association, controlling for body mass index and gender. Results: Smoking was positively correlated with depression, interpersonal sensitivity, hostility, somatization, paranoid ideation and psychoticism (P<0.05). Adjusting for body mass index and gender, the results remained largely unchanged, with a slight independent effect of body mass index. Conclusions: Our data suggest that smoking is a stronger predictor of psychopathology than body mass index and gender.
Ultrastructural Study of the Conjunctival Epithelium in the Mongolian Gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus)

The conjunctival epithelium of the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) was studied using the transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The superficial cells of the conjunctival epithelium were isoprismatic in shape and were covered, on their luminal surface, with microplicae. They were connected with the adjacent cells by junctional complexes and desmosomes. Some of the superficial cells were partially or completely detached from the underlying intermediate cells: this morphological pattern was interpreted as an expression of cellular renewal of the conjunctival surface. Goblet cells were either isolated or gathered in clusters: in any case, they were firmly connected with the adjacent epithelial cells. The apical part of the goblet cells was covered with a great number of long microvilli: they showed a variety of morphological aspects, which were interpreted as occurring in a sequential pattern during the secretory process. The Mongolian gerbil can be considered among the laboratory animals used for ophthalmic research.
Do preventive interventions for children of mentally ill parents work? Results of a systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose of review The transgenerational transmission of mental disorders is one of the most significant causes of psychiatric morbidity. Several risk factors for children of parents with mental illness (COPMI) have been identified in numerous studies and meta-analyses. Recent findings Many interventions have been developed for this high-risk group, but data about their efficacy are heterogeneous. Summary The current meta-analysis reports on 96 articles including 50 independent samples from randomized controlled trials quantifying effects of preventive interventions for COPMI. Random effect models resulted in small, though significant Effect Sizes (ES) for programs enhancing the mother-infant interaction (ES = 0.26) as well as mothers’ (ES = 0.33) and children's (ES = 0.31) behavior that proved to be stable over the 12-month follow-up, except for infants’ behavior. Interventions for children/adolescents resulted in significant small effects for global psychopathology (ES = 0.13), as well as internalizing symptoms (ES = 0.17), and increased significantly over time, with externalizing symptoms reaching significance in the follow-up assessments as well (ES = 0.17). Interventions addressing parents and children jointly produced overall larger effects. Higher study quality was associated with smaller effects. There is a dearth of high quality studies that effectively reduce the high risk of COPMI for the development of mental disorders.
Solid-Solution Alloy Nanoparticles of the Immiscible Iridium-Copper System with a Wide Composition Range for Enhanced Electrocatalytic Applications.

For the first time, we synthesize solid-solution alloy nanoparticles of Ir and Cu with a size of ca. 2 nm, despite Ir and Cu being immiscible in the bulk up to their melting over the whole composition range. We performed a systematic characterization on the nature of the Irx Cu1-x solid-solution alloys using powder X-ray diffraction, scanning transmission electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results showed that the Irx Cu1-x alloys had a face-centered-cubic structure; charge transfer from Cu to Ir occurred in the alloy nanoparticles, as the core-level Ir 4f peaks shifted to lower energy region with the increase in Cu content. Furthermore, we observed that the alloying of Ir with Cu enhanced both the electrocatalytic oxygen evolution and oxygen reduction reactions. The enhanced activities could be attributed to the electronic interaction between Ir and Cu arising from the alloying effect at atomic-level.
Gender Differences in the Response to Impaired Sleep in Adults with Diabetes

This study analyzed cross-sectional data to examine gender differences in the association of sleep quality and daytime sleepiness with mood and functional outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Measures included demographic and clinical data as well as scales that measured subjective daytime sleepiness, sleep quality, mood disturbances, and functional outcomes. The majority of the sample (N = 116) had poor sleep quality and was subjectively sleepy. We observed in males and females significantly different associative patterns between the predictor variables of daytime sleepiness and sleep quality and the outcome variables of mood and functional outcome. There was no significant difference in daytime sleepiness or impaired sleep quality between men and women with T2DM; however, there was a difference in the expression of impaired sleep on mood and functional outcomes between genders.
Utility of Photochemical Traits as Diagnostics of Thermal Tolerance amongst Great Barrier Reef Corals

Light availability is considered a key factor regulating the thermal sensitivity of reef building corals, where excessive excitation of photosystem II (PSII) further exacerbates pressure on photochemical pathways already compromised by heat stress. Coral symbionts acclimate to changes in light availability (photoacclimation) by continually fine-tuning the photochemical operating efficiency of PSII. However, how this process adjusts throughout the warmest months in naturally heat-tolerant or sensitive species is unknown, and whether this influences the capacity to tolerate transient heat stress is untested. We therefore examined the PSII photophysiology of 10 coral species (with known thermal tolerances) from shallow reef environments at Heron Island (Great Barrier Reef, Australia), in spring (October-November, 2015) versus summer (February-March, 2016). Corals were maintained in flow-through aquaria and rapid light curve (RLC) protocols using pulse amplitude modulated (PAM) fluorometry captured changes in the PSII photoacclimation strategy, characterised as the minimum saturating irradiance (Ek), and the extent of photochemical ([1 – C], operating efficiency) versus non-photochemical ([1 – Q]) energy dissipation. Values of Ek across species were >2-fold higher in all coral species in spring, consistent with a climate of higher overall light exposure (i.e. higher PAR from lower cloud cover, rainfall and wind speed) compared with summer. Summer decreases in Ek were combined with a shift towards preferential photochemical quenching in all species. All coral species were subsequently subjected to thermal stress assays. An equivalent temperature-ramping profile of 1°C increase per day and then maintenance at 32°C was applied in each season. Despite the significant seasonal photoacclimation, the species hierarchy of thermal tolerance (maximum quantum yields of PSII (Fv/Fm), monitored at dawn and dusk) did not shift between seasons, except for P. damicornis (faster declines in summer) and Stylophora pistillata (total mortality in spring). Furthermore, the strategy for dealing with light energy (i.e. preferential photochemical versus non-photochemical quenching) was unchanged for thermally tolerant species across seasons, whereas thermally sensitive species switched between preferential [1 – Q] and [1 – C] from spring to summer. We discuss how such traits can potentially be used as diagnostic of thermal tolerance under non-stressed conditions.