Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Genetic variants in RUNX3, AMD1 and MSRA in the methionine metabolic pathway and survival in nonsmall cell lung cancer patients

Abnormal methionine dependence in cancer cells has led to methionine restriction as a potential therapeutic strategy. We hypothesized that genetic variants involved in methionine‐metabolic genes are associated with survival in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Therefore, we investigated associations of 16,378 common single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 97 methionine‐metabolic pathway genes with overall survival (OS) in NSCLC patients using genotyping data from two published genome‐wide association study (GWAS) datasets. In the single‐locus analysis, 1,005 SNPs were significantly associated with NSCLC OS (p < 0.05 and false‐positive report probability < 0.2) in the discovery dataset. Three SNPs (RUNX3 rs7553295 G > T, AMD1 rs1279590 G > A and MSRA rs73534533 C > A) were replicated in the validation dataset, and their meta‐analysis showed an adjusted hazards ratio [HR] of 0.82 [95% confidence interval (CI) =0.75–0.89] and pmeta = 2.86 × 10−6, 0.81 (0.73–0.91) and pmeta = 4.63 × 10−4, and 0.77 (0.68–0.89) and pmeta = 2.07 × 10−4, respectively). A genetic score of protective genotypes of these three SNPs revealed an increased OS in a dose–response manner (ptrend < 0.0001). Further expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis showed significant associations between these genotypes and mRNA expression levels. Moreover, differential expression analysis further supported a tumor‐suppressive effect of MSRA, with lower mRNA levels in both lung squamous carcinoma and adenocarcinoma (p < 0.0001 and < 0.0001, respectively) than in adjacent normal tissues. Additionally, low mutation rates of these three genes indicated the critical roles of these functional SNPs in cancer progression. Taken together, these genetic variants of methionine‐metabolic pathway genes may be promising predictors of survival in NSCLC patients.
Frequency of occurrence of four- and five-factor WAIS-IV profiles

Abstract Interpretive strategies for the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV) include Wechsler’s four-factor structure and the five-factor Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) model. The frequency of profile occurrence and the contribution of demographic- and ability-related variables to their incidence are unknown. Current participants were 291 referrals (males = 134; female = 157) for neuropsychological evaluation with mean years for age and education of 34.94 (SD = 13.53) and 12.74 (SD = 2.46), respectively. Lichtenberger and Kaufman’s guidelines for selecting each model were applied. Of the total, 67.3% were four-factor and 32.6% were five-factor profiles. The same pattern emerged when participants were subdivided by gender, education, ethnicity, IQ, and diagnosis. A noteworthy association between IQ and profile type emerged. When IQ increased, four-factor profiles declined and five-factors increased. A logistic regression, using demographics, IQ, and diagnosis as predictors, correctly classified 64.8% of participants. The average subtest intercorrelations and g saturations in the four-factor group were substantially larger than those for five-factor participants. These findings were consistent with Spearman’s differentiation by ability hypothesis.
Lead concentrations in the blood and eggs of backyard laying hens

AIMS: To investigate the prevalence of lead exposure in hens and eggs from backyard poultry in a sample of Auckland households, the relationship between concentrations of lead in the blood of the hens and in the shells and yolks of eggs from the same household, and to examine associations with measures of hen health, environment and husbandry factors. METHODS: Thirty households participated in the study from August to November 2016, each providing one adult hen for sampling, an egg from the household if available, and completing a questionnaire on hen husbandry. Concentrations of lead in blood were determined using a portable lead analyser. Eggs were analysed for concentrations of lead in the yolk and shell using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry after biological digestion with a mixture of nitric and hydrochloric acid. RESULTS: Twenty three of 30 hens (77%) showed evidence of lead exposure, with median concentrations of lead in blood of 0.77 (min <0.16, max 8.02) μmol/L. All eggs showed evidence of lead exposure, with concentrations of lead in the yolk ranging from 0.003–1.07 mg/kg, and concentrations of lead in the eggshell ranging from <0.1–0.82 mg/kg. A positive correlation existed between concentrations of lead in the blood of a hen and concentrations of lead in egg yolk from the same hen (R2=0.97), and both the yolk (R2=0.58) and shell (R2=0.30) of an egg from her flock. No association was found between concentrations of lead in blood and hen health indices measured in this study. Concentrations of lead in blood were higher in hens from properties with homes built before 1941 than between 1941–1960 (p=0.03), and in hens from properties with weatherboard homes than brick homes (p=0.049). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: There was a high prevalence of lead exposure in this sample of Auckland backyard chickens, with the majority of hens being sub-clinically affected. Associations were found between concentrations of lead in the blood of the hens, and properties with homes built before 1941 and clad in weatherboard. Concentrations of lead in over half the egg yolks sampled were at levels sufficient to warrant human health concern. The assessment of concentrations of lead in backyard poultry and eggs intended for human consumption is recommended to protect human and bird health.
Promotion of TRAIL/Apo2L‐induced apoptosis by low‐dose interferon‐β in human malignant melanoma cells

Interferon β (IFN‐β) is considered a signaling molecule with important therapeutic potential in cancer since IFN‐β‐induced gene transcription mediates antiproliferation and cell death induction. Whereas, TNF‐related apoptosis inducing ligand/Apo2 ligand (TRAIL/Apo2L) has emerged as a promising anticancer agent because it induces apoptosis specifically in cancer cells. In this study, we elucidated that IFN‐β augments TRAIL‐induced apoptosis synergistically using five human malignant melanoma cells. All of these cells were induced apoptosis by TRAIL. Whereas, the response against IFN‐β was different in amelanotic cells (A375 and CRL1579) and melanotic cells (G361, SK‐MEL‐28, and MeWo). The responsibility of amelanotic cells against IFN‐β was higher than those of melanotic cells. The synergism of IFN‐β and TRAIL were correlated with the responsibilities of the cells against IFN‐β. The synergistic interaction was confirmed by a combination index based on the Chou‐Talalay method. The upregulation of apoptosis in amelanotic cells was caused by very low doses of IFN‐β (over 0.1 IU/ml). Both of p53‐mediated intrinsic pathway and Fas‐related extrinsic pathway were activated by IFN‐β alone and combination with TRAIL. Further, TRAIL death receptors (DR4 and DR5) were upregulated by a low‐dose IFN‐β (over 0.1 IU/ml) and the expression was more promoted by the combination with TRAIL. It was clarified that the upregulation of DR5 is associated with the declination of viability.
Personality profiles of divers: integrating results across studies.

BACKGROUND There are numerous reports on diver personality, spanning across five decades, across national boundaries, and using a range of measures to describe diver profiles. However, the range of reports poses challenges to interpreting new studies, particularly when having to compare findings across generations, measurements, and national/cultural contexts. This paper aimed to review and integrate diver personality descriptions, drawing on the available studies that reported trait theory based data for naval and sport divers. MATERIALS AND METHODS Available studies on diver personality - associated with trait theory - were tabulated and the specific traits associated with divers described. Their findings were then integrated into a synthesised description of personality traits. RESULTS The results suggest remarkably stable military diver profiles across generations, measures, and navies, with some unique differences observed due to national-cultural variables. It was of particular interest that different measures of personality appeared to present related constructions of diver profiles. Navy divers share, among others, a propensity for adventurousness, a strong sense of self-agency, and low trait anxiety. Unsurprisingly, personality profiling could not be generalised across military-civilian diving contexts, and the same clear profile differentiation of navy divers was not visible among sport divers. CONCLUSIONS Contemporary local data - in the context of military diving - could productively be compared to the body of existing reports, at least where similar theoretical models are used.
Brief Report: Comparing Sexual Risk Behavior in a High-Risk Group of Men Who Have Sex With Men and Transgender Women in Lima, Peru

Background: Transgender women (TW) and men who have sex with men (MSM) are often conflated in HIV research and prevention programs, despite clear differences that exist in culture and behavior. Methods: We examined baseline data from a large treatment-as-prevention study among TW and MSM in Lima, Peru, to assess differences in risk behavior. Baseline assessment included HIV testing and a questionnaire including sociodemographics, sexual behavior, social venue attendance, and drug and alcohol use. Poisson regression with robust standard errors was used to calculate prevalence ratios adjusted for confounding variables [adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR)] and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) comparing the prevalence of covariates related to HIV risk in MSM and TW. Results: Overall, 310 TW and 2807 MSM participated between July 2013 and September 2015 and were included in this analysis. TW engaged in some protective sexual health practices more than MSM, including HIV testing in the last year (aPR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.42 to 1.84) and condom use at the last sexual encounter (aPR = 1.20; 95% CI: 1.06 to 1.36). TW were more likely to have sex while using alcohol (aPR 1.15, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.31) or drugs (aPR 2.24, 95% CI: 1.47 to 3.41), have alcohol dependency (aPR 1.38, 95% CI: 1.15 to 1.66), engage in receptive anal sex (aPR 1.31, 95% CI: 1.26 to 1.36), and have received money, gifts, or favors in exchange of anal sex (1.96, 95% CI: 1.74 to 2.20). Conclusions: TW and MSM exhibited distinct risk profiles, suggesting that interventions specifically targeted to each group may provide new opportunities for more effective HIV prevention programs.
Quality of Life (QOL) and Its Associated Factors among Rungus Elderly Population in the Rural Areas of Kudat, Sabah

Aging population will be an inevitable phenomenon around the globe. This study aimed to assess the quality of life and its associated factors among the elderly population in rural areas of Kudat, Sabah. A community based cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly aged 60 and above living in Tambuluran Area of Kudat. Quality of life was assessed using WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires. Socio-demographic data of the elderly, perceived morbidities and utilization of health services were collected. Independent sample t-test was used for data analysis. A total of 165 respondents participated in this study with a mean age of 71. 42Â±6.50. The mean WHOQOL-BREF score was 65.20 Â±11.49. Mean scores for physical and psychological domains were lower than average. Age, marital status, educational level and perceived morbidity were associated significantly with QOL. In conclusion, QOL was generally average among elderly in rural areas of Kudat. Therefore, interventions should place emphasis on physical and psychological aspects of life among these aged population.
miR‐15a/15b Cluster Modulates Survival of Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Improve Its Therapeutic Efficacy of Myocardial Infarction

Background The poor viability of transplanted mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hampers their therapeutic efficacy for ischemic heart disease. MicroRNAs are involved in regulation of MSC survival and function. The present study was designed to investigate the molecular effects of miR‐15a/15b on MSC survival, focusing on the role of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2. Methods and Results We first harvested donor luc(Luciferase)‐MSCs (5×105) isolated from the luciferase transgenic mice with FVB background. Luc‐MSCs were transfected with miR‐15a/15b mimics or inhibitors and cultured under oxygen glucose deprivation condition for 12 hours to mimics the harsh microenvironment in infarcted heart; they were subjected to MTT (3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐2‐thiazolyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2‐H‐tetrazolium bromide? Thiazolyl Blue Tetrazolium Bromide) assay, bioluminescence imaging, quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, transferase‐mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate–digoxigenin nick‐end labeling assay, and flow cytometry. Furthermore, the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2, protein kinase B, p(Phosphorylate)‐protein kinase B, Bcl‐2, Bax, and caspase‐3 proteins were available by Western blotting assay. In vivo, acute myocardial infarction was induced in 24 mice by coronary ligation, with subsequent receipt of Luc‐MSCs, Luc‐MSCs+miR‐15a/15b inhibitors, or PBS treatment. The therapeutic procedure and treatment effects were tracked and assessed using bioluminescence imaging and echocardiographic measurement. Next, ex vivo imaging and immunohistochemistry were conducted to verify the distribution of MSCs. We demonstrated that miR‐15a/15b targeted vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 to modulate MSC survival, possibly via phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathway, which was proved by bioluminescence imaging, immunohistochemistry analysis, and echocardiographic measurement. Conclusions Luc‐MSCs could be followed dynamically in vitro and in vivo by bioluminescence imaging, and the role of miR‐15a/b could be inferred from the loss of signals from luc‐MSCs. This finding may have practical clinical implications in miR‐15a/15b–modified MSC transplantation in treating myocardial infarction.
Cerumen auris in Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University teaching hospital Bauchi, North-eastern Nigeria

Background: Cerumen Auris (Ear Wax) is a naturally occurring normally extruded product of the External Auditory Canal (EAC). Despite lots of work on cerumen auris in other parts of Nigeria and the world at large, there was no documented prevalence study in North-eastern Nigeria. Objective: The study aimed to determine the prevalence of cerumen auris, evaluate the methods of its removal and to evaluate the possible complications of methods of cerumen removal in Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital Bauchi Northeastern Nigeria. Design: A 1-year retrospective study of all patients seen with cerumen auris at the study center. Materials and Methods: Patients case files were retrieved, and data on demography, clinical presentation, examination, intervention, as well as complications, were extracted. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 16. Results: A total of 442 patients′ case notes was reviewed, consisting 218 males and 224 females, age ranges from 1-month to 93 years, mean age was 18.76 ± 1.78, most frequent affected age group was 0-9 years accounting for 43.7%. The calculated hospital prevalence was 4.6%. Ninety-five percent of the patients had their cerumen auris removed via ear syringing. Twenty-one (4.8%) of the patients had canal abrasion, 2.3% had bleeding in the EAC, 1.4% of the patients had vertigo. Conclusion: Cerumen auris, when untreated, can lead to hearing loss and loss of concentration hence its removal using a safe and effective method is paramount. Ear syringing is found to be safe and effective method of cerumen auris removal.
Endovascular glue embolization for control of massive hemoptysis caused by peripheral pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysms: Report of 7 cases

Purpose: Pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysms are a rare cause of massive hemoptysis and need to be considered as a differential with prompt recognition preventing mortality from life-threatening hemorrhage. We report the clinical details and imaging findings for a series of patients presenting with massive haemoptysis due to peripheral pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm, managed by endovascular glue embolization. Methods: Hospital based retrospective study wherein records and image database of patients presenting with massive hemoptysis between January 2014 and March 2016 were studied. The immediate technical success, reintervention rate, and recurrence of massive hemoptysis were recorded. Results: Among patients with massive hemoptysis who underwent endovascular management in our department, seven patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 54.3 years; mean lesion diameter was 10.8 mm (range 6–14 mm); underlying pathology being infective (tuberculosis) in all cases (n = 7). All lesions were treated with endovascular glue embolization. The technical success was 100%. Mean follow-up was 11.7 months. There was no case of recurrence of massive hemoptysis. There were no major complications with a single case of minor complication (in the form of chest pain and discomfort) which resolved with medical management. Conclusion: The endovascular approach using glue (N-butyl cyanoacrylate) is a minimally invasive and technically feasible, effective technique for emergent management of pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysms presenting as massive hemoptysis.
Relation between processing facial identity and emotional expression in typically developing school-age children and those with Down syndrome

Abstract The main purposes of this research were to examine the relation between the processing of face identity and emotion expressions and then discern the significance of emotional expressions using Bruce et al. tasks. Two studies were conducted. Study 1 examined 225 typically developing (TD) children age 4 to 12. Results suggested that early recognition of complete faces and interpretation of emotional expression might depend on local processing abilities, while the recognition of masked faces and emotion expression matching seemed to share configural processing. Study 2 compared 22 children with Down syndrome (DS) to two TD groups matched on mental age (MA group) and chronological age (CA group). Results showed that children with DS processed the identity of complete faces (local processing) similarly to the MA and CA groups. In contrast, their performances for masked faces (configural processing) indicated a developmental delay as they were only comparable to the MA group. Children with DS were also able to identify the emotion expressions according to labels as well as the two control groups, while they had more difficulties on the matching condition. Furthermore, specific difficulties in processing the surprise expression were observed, rather than general difficulties in encoding emotion expressions. Finally, their performances on emotion matching tasks seemed to be supported by local information processing, which might explain their lower scores compared to CA controls that mainly used configural information. These results could aid in the development of targeted interventions for DS to improve their social skills.
Combination Therapy with an SGLT2 Inhibitor as Initial Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Guidelines differ with regard to indications for initial combination pharmacotherapy for type 2 diabetes. Aims: To compare the efficacy and safety of (i) sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor combination therapy in treatment-naïve type 2 diabetes adults; (ii) initial high and low dose SGLT2 inhibitor combination therapy. Methods: PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library were searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of initial SGLT2 combination therapy. Mean difference (MD) for changes from baseline (HbA1c, weight, blood pressure) after 24–26 weeks of treatment and relative risks (RR, safety) were calculated using a random-effects model. Risk of bias and quality of evidence was assessed. Results: In 4 RCTs (n = 3749) there was moderate quality evidence that SGLT2 inhibitor/metformin combination therapy resulted in a greater reduction in HbA1c (MD (95% CI); −0.55% (−0.67, −0.43)) and weight (−2.00 kg (−2.34, −1.66)) compared with metformin monotherapy, and a greater reduction in HbA1c (−0.59% (−0.72, −0.46)) and weight (−0.57 kg (−0.89, −0.25)) compared with SGLT2 inhibitor monotherapy. The high dose SGLT2 inhibitor/metformin combination resulted in a similar HbA1c but greater weight reduction; −0.47 kg (−0.88, −0.06) than the low dose combination therapy. The RR of genital infection with combination therapy was 2.22 (95% CI 1.33, 3.72) and 0.69 (95% CI 0.50, 0.96) compared with metformin and SGLT2 inhibitor monotherapy, respectively. The RR of diarrhoea was 2.23 (95% CI 1.46, 3.40) with combination therapy compared with SGLT2 inhibitor monotherapy. Conclusions: Initial SGLT2 inhibitor/metformin combination therapy has glycaemic and weight benefits compared with either agent alone and appears relatively safe. High dose SGLT2 inhibitor/metformin combination therapy appears to have modest weight, but no glycaemic benefits compared with the low dose combination therapy.
Prevention of Corneal Neovascularization by Adenovirus Encoding Human Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Soluble Receptor (s-VEGFR1) in Lacrimal Gland.

Purpose The aims of this study were (1) to determine the efficacy of adenovirus vector serotype 5 (Ad) encoding human soluble VEGF receptor 1 (s-VEGFR1) gene transfer to the lacrimal gland (LG); (2) to investigate whether expression of s-VEGFR1 prevents corneal neovascularization (CNV) induced by alkali burns; and (3) to evaluate the safety of the procedure. Methods AdVEGFR1 vectors (25 μL, 1 × 1010 pfu/mL) were injected in the right LGs of rats and were compared with AdNull vector (25 μL, 1 × 1010 pfu/mL) or 25 μL of saline (Control) before cornea alkali burns with 1 M NaOH. After 7 days, CNV was documented at the slit lamp. Tear secretion was measured with phenol red threads. The animals were tested for s-VEGFR1 mRNA and protein in the LG by quantitative (q)PCR and immunohistochemistry staining, respectively. qPCR was used to compare the mRNA levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in the LG and ipsilateral trigeminal ganglion (TG). Results Ad-VEGFR1 transfected 83% (10/12) of the rats. VEGFR1 was present in LG acinar cells. CNV was prevented in 9 of 12 animals in the Ad-VEGFR1 group, compared with the Ad-Null (3:10) and Control groups (1:10) (P = 0.0317). The tear secretion and cytokine mRNA levels in the LG and TG were similar in all three groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions Adenoviral vector gene transfer was safe for LG structure and function. The LG as the target tissue showed local expression of human s-VEGFR1, and CNV was prevented in most of the eyes exposed to alkali burns.