Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Heat storage in unsaturated soils: initial theoretical analysis of storage design and operational methods

Unsaturated soil beneath a greenhouse serves as a seasonal storage medium for low temperature heat obtained from solar collectors. The storage configuration consists of an array of vertical helical storage ducts. The computer code PT, developed at Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, calculates the axisymmetric temperature distribution for a single duct system. Presently heat transfer in the soil is considered to be purely by conduction, but the effect of unsaturated flow will be included in future work. The results of these calculations will guide the construction of an optimal storage system currently being planned.
Changes in Retinol Binding Protein 4 Level in Undernourished Children After a Nutrition Intervention Are Positively Associated With Mother’s Weight but Negatively With Mother’s Height, Intake of Whole Milk, and Markers of Systemic Inflammation: Results From a Community-Based Intervention Study

Background: The changes of plasma retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) level after a nutrition intervention can indicate the metabolic changes associated with the delivered intervention. Objective: We investigated the changes in plasma RBP4 level among 12- to 18-month-old children after a nutrition intervention and measured its association with subcutaneous adiposity, maternal characteristics, and inflammation. Methods: Data of 520 undernourished children (250 of them had length-for-age Z score [LAZ] <−1 to −2 and 270 had LAZ score <−2) were collected from the Bangladesh Environmental Enteric Dysfunction study conducted in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Multivariable linear regression and generalized estimation equations (GEE) modeling techniques were used to measure the association. Results: At baseline, median RBP4 level was 19.9 mg/L (interquartile range [IQR]: 7.96), and at the end of the intervention, it was 20.6 mg/L (IQR: 9.06). Percentage changes in plasma RBP4 level were not significantly associated (P > .05) with the percentage changes in child’s height, weight, and subcutaneous adiposity. But maternal height (regression coefficient, β = −1.62, P = .002) and milk intake (β = −0.05, P = .01) were negatively and maternal weight was positively associated (β = 0.56, P = .03) with the changes in RBP4 levels. The GEE models revealed negative association of RBP4 levels with C-reactive protein (CRP; β = −0.14, P < .05) and α-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP; β = −0.03, P < .05). Conclusion: Children whose mothers were taller experienced less increase in plasma RBP4 level, and children whose mothers had a higher weight experienced more increase in the RBP4 level from baseline. We have also found that CRP and AGP levels and intake of whole milk were negatively associated with the plasma RBP4 level.
Inhibition of clathrin‐mediated endocytosis by knockdown of AP‐2 leads to alterations in the plasma membrane proteome

In eukaryotic cells, clathrin‐mediated endocytosis (CME) is a central pathway for the internalization of proteins from the cell surface, thereby contributing to the maintenance of the plasma membrane protein composition. A key component for the formation of endocytic clathrin‐coated vesicles (CCVs) is AP‐2, as it sequesters cargo membrane proteins, recruits a multitude of other endocytic factors and initiates clathrin polymerization. Here, we inhibited CME by depletion of AP‐2 and explored the consequences for the plasma membrane proteome. Quantitative analysis revealed accumulation of major constituents of the endosomal‐lysosomal system reflecting a block in retrieval by compensatory CME. The noticeable enrichment of integrins and blockage of their turnover resulted in severely impaired cell migration. Rare proteins such as the anti‐cancer drug target CA9 and tumor markers (CD73, CD164, CD302) were significantly enriched. The AP‐2 knockdown attenuated the global endocytic capacity, but clathrin‐independent entry pathways were still operating, as indicated by persistent internalization of specific membrane‐spanning and GPI‐anchored receptors (PVR, IGF1R, CD55, TNAP). We hypothesize that blocking AP‐2 function and thus inhibiting CME may be a novel approach to identify new druggable targets, or to increase their residence time at the plasma membrane, thereby increasing the probability for efficient therapeutic intervention.
“While You’re Down There”: The Unexplored Role of Estheticians in the Health of Their Clients

ABSTRACT Young women (18–25 years) are more likely to engage in pubic hair removal and experience higher rates of negative sexual health outcomes (e.g., sexually transmitted infections [STIs]). Hair removal salons may serve as novel environments for health interventions. The Sexual Health and Esthetician (SHE) Study aimed to better understand the pubic hair removal profession, explore the esthetician–client relationship, and assess potential for esthetician offices/salons serving as health promotion/sexual health promotion intervention settings. Using an exploratory qualitative design, in-depth interviews (N = 28) were conducted with licensed estheticians who provided pubic waxing services. In a large urban area in Southern California, the catchment area of salons included five unique neighborhoods, each with high reported STI rates. Data were analyzed using a social constructivist perspective and emergent themes from interviews. Synthesis of data showed estheticians provide a variety of waxing services for young women; during appointments, sex-related discussions occur, creating “sexy spaces” where otherwise taboo conversations happen with ease; they notice clients’ possible health concerns, including STIs, but have no protocols/procedures for handling these occurrences; and interactions with clients often result in the development of an intimate bond. Results indicate estheticians may be effective conveyors of sexual health promotion and risk reduction interventions.
Lichenoid Proliferative Leukoplakia, Lichenoid lesions with evolution to Proliferative Leukoplakia or a continuum of the same precancerous condition? A revised hypothesis.

BACKGROUND Multiple white plaques of the oral mucosa are usually associated with potentially malignant disorders such as Oral Lichen Planus, Oral Lichenoid Lesions, and Proliferative Verrucous Leukoplakia. Previous studies in the current literature describe a potential clinical overlap in these entities. The aim of this study is to review clinicopathological and evolutive features of these Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders highlighting the dynamic changes of diagnoses. DISCUSSION It was previously hypothesized that a subset of patients with Oral Lichen Planus or Oral Lichenoid diagnosis, could develop multiple white plaques during the natural history of the disease, fulfilling diagnostic criteria for Proliferative Verrucous Leukoplakia. Consequently, these entities could, under certain conditions, obey a continuum of the same precancerous condition in the context of the field cancerization theory, increasing the risk of malignant transformation. Nevertheless, there is limited scientific evidence concerning this issue. CONCLUSION Further studies are needed to understand the biological and evolutive features of the link between these Oral Potentially Malignant disorders. Regardless of its diagnosis, these patients with multifocal white lesions must be carefully monitored to detect early malignant transformation.
Laminar distribution of cortical projection neurons to the pulvinar: A comparative study in cats and mice

The cortical processing of visual information is thought to follow a hierarchical framework. This framework of connections between visual areas is based on the laminar patterns of direct feedforward and feedback cortico‐cortical projections. However, this view ignores the cortico‐thalamo‐cortical projections to the pulvinar nucleus in the thalamus, which provides an alternative transthalamic information transfer between cortical areas. It was proposed that corticothalamic (CT) pathways follow a similar hierarchical pattern as cortico‐cortical connections. Two main types of CT projections have been recognized: drivers and modulators. Drivers originate mainly in Layer 5 whereas modulators are from Layer 6. Little is known about the laminar distribution of these projections to the pulvinar across visual cortical areas. Here, we analyzed the distribution of CT neurons projecting to the lateral posterior (LP) thalamus in two species: cats and mice. Injections of the retrograde tracer fragment B of cholera toxin (CTb) were performed in the LP. The morphology and cortical laminar distribution of CTb‐labeled neurons was assessed. In cats, neurons were mostly found in Layer 6 except in Area 17, where they were mostly in Layer 5. In contrast, CT neurons in mice were mostly located in Layer 6 across all areas. Thus, our results demonstrate that CT projections in mice do not follow the same organization as cats suggesting that the transthalamic pathways play distinct roles in these species.
Baricitinib improves symptoms in patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis and inadequate response to topical corticosteroids: patient-reported outcomes from two randomized monotherapy phase III trials

Abstract Background Itch, skin pain, and sleep disturbance are burdensome symptoms in atopic dermatitis (AD) that negatively influence a patient’s quality of life (QoL). Objective To evaluate the impact of baricitinib on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in adult patients with moderate-to-severe AD, and explore the association between improvement in key signs and symptoms of AD with improvements in QoL and patient’s assessment of disease severity. Methods Data were analyzed from two phase III monotherapy trials (BREEZE-AD1/BREEZE-AD2) in which patients were randomized 2:1:1:1 to once-daily placebo, baricitinib 1-mg, 2-mg, or 4-mg for 16 weeks and assessed using PRO measures. Results At week 16, baricitinib 4-mg and 2-mg significantly reduced itch severity (Itch Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) (BREEZE-AD1: percent change from baseline −36.6% and −29.4% vs. placebo (–12.0%), p≤. 001 and p≤. 05; BREEZE-AD2: −47.2% and −46.9% vs. placebo (–16.6%), p≤. 001). Baricitinib significantly reduced SCORing AD (SCORAD) pruritus (4-mg in BREEZE-AD1 and 2-mg in BREEZE-AD2) and Patient Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM) itch (both doses). Improvements in skin pain severity and sleep disturbance were also observed. Improvements in AD symptoms showed higher correlations with patients’ assessment of AD severity and QoL than improvements in skin inflammation. Conclusions Baricitinib significantly improved symptoms in patients with moderate-to-severe AD. ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers NCT03334396 (BREEZE-AD1) and NCT03334422 (BREEZE-AD2).
Pregnant women's knowledge of, and adherence to, New Zealand Food Safety in Pregnancy guidelines.

AIM Pregnant women are at increased risk for contracting foodborne illness. Simple food safety precautions can prevent illness. The aim of this study was to examine pregnant women's knowledge of, and adherence to, the New Zealand Food Safety in Pregnancy guidelines. METHOD Participants were recruited when attending antenatal clinics, and via online pregnancy support groups. Knowledge and behaviours were assessed by way of a self-administered questionnaire. RESULTS In total, 205 women participated in this study; 100 from antenatal clinics, 105 via Facebook. The median knowledge score was 95% (interquartile range (IQR) 83-100%, minimum = 17.4%). Only 25% of participants answered all questions correctly. The median adherence score was 77% (IQR = 62-92%, minimum = 8%); 13% of participants reported complete adherence to the food safety guidelines. Mean knowledge scores in participants of Māori ethnicity (76.6%) were lower than in participants of European/other ethnicity (91.7%, p=0.004). Māori participants had the lowest mean adherence scores (63.2%) and this requires further investigation. CONCLUSIONS The majority of participants reported continuing to consume foods considered unsafe in pregnancy. This study highlights the need for improved food safety education during pregnancy. The results also suggest a need for food safety guidance to be made more accessible and relevant to the needs of Māori women.
Phosphorylation state of pyruvate dehydrogenase and metabolite levels in turkey skeletal muscle in normal and pale, soft, exudative meats

ABSTRACT 1. Turkey production has increased dramatically as genetic selection has succeeded in increasing body weight and muscle yield to fulfil increasing consumer demand. However, producing fast-growing, heavily muscled birds is linked to increased heat stress susceptibility and can result in pale, soft, exudative (PSE) meat. Previous studies indicated that pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4) is significantly reduced in PSE samples, suggesting this as a candidate gene associated with the development of this problem. 2. The objective of this study was to determine whether pre-market thermal challenge results in PSE meat as a result of differential expression of PDK4. Two genetic lines of turkeys were used in this study; the Randombred Control Line 2 (RBC2) and a commercial line. Turkeys were exposed to a pre-market thermal challenge of 12 h at 35°C followed by 12 h at 27°C for 5 d. Birds were slaughtered and processed according to industry standards. Pectoralis major samples were categorised as PSE or normal based on marinade uptake and cook loss indicators. In the first experiment, the relative expression of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) and the phosphorylation state of PDH in normal and PSE turkey meat were analysed by western blotting. In the second experiment, the same samples were used to measure metabolite levels at 5 min post-mortem, comparing the normal to the PSE samples. 3. The results of the first experiment showed that PSE samples had significantly lower total PDH (P = 0.029) compared to normal meat. However, there was no significant difference in the degree of phosphorylation of sites 1, 2 or 3. In the second experiment, there were no significant differences in glycogen, lactate, glycolytic potential or ATP when comparing PSE to control samples. 4. These results suggested that a reduction in PDK4 expression alone does not explain the development of PSE meat.
Ethnicity, nativity, and the effects of stereotypes on cardiovascular health among people of African ancestry in the United States: internal versus external sources of racism

ABSTRACT Objective The present study tests the hypothesis that ethnicity and nativity moderate the association of negative racial stereotypes versus perceived discrimination to cardiovascular health among Black respondents to the National Survey of American Life (NSAL). It is also hypothesized that the relationship is strongest in African Americans and weakest in foreign-born Caribbean Blacks with U.S.-born Caribbean Blacks falling in the middle. The same pattern of results is expected to occur for the correlation between perceived discrimination and cardiovascular health. Method A representative sample of 3570 (100%) African American and 1419 (87.4%) of 1623 Caribbean Black respondents to the NSAL had complete data for use in this study. The Caribbean subsample was divided by nativity into 373 (26.3%) U.S.-born and 1044 (73.7%) foreign-born participants. Structural equation modeling (SEM) tested the measurement model for effects of internalized racism and perceived racism on cardiovascular health mediated by perceived mastery and performance apprehension. Results SEM analyses revealed that perceived discrimination had a much stronger effect on cardiovascular health than internalized racism for African Americans and foreign-born Caribbean Blacks, but the diametrically opposite pattern was the case for U.S.-born Caribbean Blacks who reported greater effects for internalized racism than perceived discrimination. Conclusion Interventions and policies to eliminate disparities in cardiovascular health for the U.S. Black population must address internal and external sources of racism by ethnicity and nativity.
Causal association of adipokines with osteoarthritis: a Mendelian randomization study.

OBJECTIVE This two-sample Mendelian randomization study aimed to delve into the effects of genetically predicted adipokine levels on OA. METHODS Summary statistic data for OA originated from a meta-analysis of a genome-wide association study with an overall 50 508 subjects of European ancestry. Publicly available summary data from four genome-wide association studies were exploited to respectively identify instrumental variables of adiponectin, leptin, resistin, chemerin and retinol-blinding protein 4. Subsequently, Mendelian randomization analyses were conducted with inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median and Mendelian randomization-Egger regression. Furthermore, sensitivity analyses were then conducted to assess the robustness of our results. RESULTS The positive causality between genetically predicted leptin level and risk of total OA was indicated by IVW [odds ratio (OR): 2.40, 95% CI: 1.13-5.09] and weighted median (OR: 2.94, 95% CI: 1.23-6.99). In subgroup analyses, evidence of potential harmful effects of higher level of adiponectin (OR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.01-1.61 using IVW), leptin (OR: 3.44, 95% CI: 1.18-10.03 using IVW) and resistin (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.03-1.36 using IVW) on risk of knee OA were acquired. However, the mentioned effects on risk of hip OA were not statistically significant. Slight evidence was identified supporting causality of chemerin and retinol-blinding protein 4 for OA. The findings of this study were verified by the results from sensitivity analysis. CONCLUSIONS An association between genetically predicted leptin level and risk of total OA was identified. Furthermore, association of genetically predicted levels of adiponectin, leptin and resistin with risk of knee OA were reported.
Metabolic profiles of socio-economic position: a multi-cohort analysis

Abstract Background Low socio-economic position (SEP) is a risk factor for multiple health outcomes, but its molecular imprints in the body remain unclear. Methods We examined SEP as a determinant of serum nuclear magnetic resonance metabolic profiles in ∼30 000 adults and 4000 children across 10 UK and Finnish cohort studies. Results In risk-factor-adjusted analysis of 233 metabolic measures, low educational attainment was associated with 37 measures including higher levels of triglycerides in small high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and lower levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), omega-3 fatty acids, apolipoprotein A1, large and very large HDL particles (including levels of their respective lipid constituents) and cholesterol measures across different density lipoproteins. Among adults whose father worked in manual occupations, associations with apolipoprotein A1, large and very large HDL particles and HDL-2 cholesterol remained after adjustment for SEP in later life. Among manual workers, levels of glutamine were higher compared with non-manual workers. All three indicators of low SEP were associated with lower DHA, omega-3 fatty acids and HDL diameter. At all ages, children of manual workers had lower levels of DHA as a proportion of total fatty acids. Conclusions Our work indicates that social and economic factors have a measurable impact on human physiology. Lower SEP was independently associated with a generally unfavourable metabolic profile, consistent across ages and cohorts. The metabolites we found to be associated with SEP, including DHA, are known to predict cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline in later life and may contribute to health inequalities.
Chronic lymphoproliferative disorders and secondary cancers in the era of purine analogues and beyond

Abstract The low grade chronic lymphoproliferative disorders include chronic lymphocytic leukemia, Waldenstroms macroglobulinemia, follicular lymphoma and hairy cell leukemia. Traditionally considered incurable, these disorders have been associated with a risk of haematological and solid organ malignancies secondary to both the underlying disease and the associated treatment. The introduction of purine analogues into treatment paradigms has seen increased rates of therapy related myelodysplasia reported and it remains unclear yet on the impact the targeted novel therapies play in the development of secondary cancers. We review the rates of secondary malignancy in the chronic lymphoproliferative disorders with a particular focus on the role of the purine analogues in the development of therapy related MDS.
A tale of two leeches: Toward the understanding of the evolution and development of behavioral neural circuits

In the animal kingdom, behavioral traits encompass a broad spectrum of biological phenotypes that have critical roles in adaptive evolution, but an EvoDevo approach has not been broadly used to study behavior evolution. Here, we propose that, by integrating two leech model systems, each of which has already attained some success in its respective field, it is possible to take on behavioral traits with an EvoDevo approach. We first identify the developmental changes that may theoretically lead to behavioral evolution and explain why an EvoDevo study of behavior is challenging. Next, we discuss the pros and cons of the two leech model species, Hirudo, a classic model for invertebrate neurobiology, and Helobdella, an emerging model for clitellate developmental biology, as models for behavioral EvoDevo research. Given the limitations of each leech system, neither is particularly strong for behavioral EvoDevo. However, the two leech systems are complementary in their technical accessibilities, and they do exhibit some behavioral similarities and differences. By studying them in parallel and together with additional leech species such as Haementeria, it is possible to explore the different levels of behavioral development and evolution.
Tardive neurotoxicity of anticholinergic drugs: A review

The cholinergic system is a complex neurotransmitter system with functional involvement at multiple levels of the nervous system including the cerebral cortex, spinal cord, autonomic nervous system, and neuromuscular junction. Anticholinergic medications are among the most prescribed medications, making up one‐third to one‐half of all medications prescribed for seniors. Recent evidence has linked long‐term use of anticholinergic medications and dementia. Emerging evidence implicates the cholinergic system in the regulation of cerebral vasculature as well as neuroinflammation, suggesting that anticholinergic medications may contribute to absolute risk and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we explore the involvement of the cholinergic system in various neurodegenerative diseases and the possible detrimental effects of anticholinergic medications on the onset and progression of these disorders. We identified references by searching the PubMed and Cochrane database between January 1990 and September 2019 for English‐language animal and human studies including randomized clinical trials (RCTs), meta‐analyses, systematic reviews, and observational studies. In addition, we conducted a manual search of reference lists from retrieved studies. Long‐term anticholinergic medication exposure may have detrimental consequences beyond well‐documented short‐term cognitive effects, through a variety of mechanisms either directly impacting cholinergic neurotransmission or through receptors expressed on the vasculature or immune cells, providing a pathophysiological framework for complex interactions across the entire neuroaxis.