Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
OCT-Angiography Changes in Patients with Diabetic Macular Edema Treated with Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant

Purpose To evaluate, using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), the impact of intravitreal dexamethasone (DEX) implant on quantitative vascular measurements in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME). Methods Prospective, randomized, and open-label study. Primary endpoints were mean changes in vessel density (VD) and vascular perfusion (VP) in superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and VP in deep capillary plexus (DCP) and peripapillary capillary plexus (PCP). Results Thirty-four eyes from 19 patients were included. Mean age was 67.4±7.3 years and 24 (76.5%) were men. VD in SCP in the 6 mm × 6 mm perifoveal ring was significantly decreased from 15.2±2.7 mm/mm2 at baseline to 13.5±3.1 at month-2, p, 0.0029. VP in SCP in the 6 mm × 6 mm perifoveal ring decreased significantly from baseline to month-2 (mean change −3.8%; 95% confidence-interval: −7.7% to −1.7%, p, 0.0028). Compared to baseline, the VP in DCP was significantly reduced at month 2 in the perifoveal ring of the 6 mm × 6 mm scan (p, 0.0063), and in the parafoveal ring of the 6 mm × 6 mm scan (p, 0.0048). Foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area did not change throughout the study. Central macular thickness significantly decreased from baseline in 210.3 µm (149.9–270.8 µm) and 201.8 µm (140.4–263.3 µm), p < 0.0001 each at month-2 and month-3, respectively. Conclusions Besides functional and anatomical improvements, DEX implant significantly reduced VD and VP in DME patients.
Is There a Role for [18F]FDG PET-CT in Staging MALT Lymphoma?

Simple Summary MALT lymphoma represents a relatively rare lymphoma subtype that arises in different extranodal anatomic locations. In the current paper we summarize our experience in assessing disease extent and metabolic characteristics of MALT lymphomas with [18F]FDG PET-CT at staging, and aim to highlight the strengths and challenges this imaging modality poses. In our data, all extranodal lesions located in subcutaneous-tissue, lung and liver were detected on PET, while some of those located in other tissues (such as along the digestive tract) were not detected on PET. We also evaluated the predictive role of PET in these patients, and found that increased [18F]FDG-uptake in extranodal lesions was associated with worse disease progression. Abstract The role of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) positron emission tomography—computed tomography (PET-CT) in assessing mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma is debatable. We retrospectively explored the role of [18F]FDG PET-CT in staging and predicting progression-free-survival (PFS) of patients with newly-diagnosed MALT lymphoma. Sixty-six studies were included. The maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) were documented in the “hottest” extranodal and nodal lesions. Extranodal lesions and accompanying nodal disease were detected on PET in 38/66 (57.6%) and 13/66 (19.7%) studies, respectively. Detection rate of extranodal lesions differed significantly between those located in tissues with high/heterogeneous (e.g., stomach) vs low/homogenous (e.g., subcutaneous-tissue, lung) physiologic [18F]FDG-uptake (40.4% vs. 100%, p < 0.01). Nodal lesions had significantly lower SUVmax, MTV and TLG compared with extrandodal lesions in the same patients. Detection and [18F]FDG-avidity of extranodal lesions were higher in patients with advanced, bulky disease and concomitant marrow/nodal involvement. Increased SUVmax of extranodal lesions predicted shorter PFS (HR 1.10, 95% CI 1.01–1.19, p = 0.02). Higher SUVmax and TLG showed trends towards shorter PFS in patients with localized disease. In conclusion, detection rate of extranodal MALT lymphoma lesions located in tissues with low/homogeneous physiologic [18F]FDG-uptake is excellent on [18F]FDG PET-CT. When detected, SUVmax of extranodal lesions may predict PFS.
Imagining robots of the future: Examining sixth-graders’ perceptions of robots through their literary products

Abstract With the popularity of robotics education, attention has been drawn to students’ perceptions of robots. This study provides a framework to understand students’ imagination about and perceptions of robots from four dimensions of robot identity—nature, social, emotional, and evolutionary. We applied the framework on 80 literary products generated by 16 sixth-grade students in a course that integrated robotics programming and literacy, such as writing and drawing about their imagination of future robots, and digital comics developed from their stories about robot. The analyses revealed a wide range of variation in terms of robot identity and the robot’s overall resemblance to human.
Laboratory investigation of pheromone pre‐exposure in Lobesia botrana males indicates minor role of desensitization in the field

The role of desensitization in mating disruption (MD) of European Grapevine Moth (EGVM), Lobesia botrana (Dennis and Schiffermüller) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is studied by exposing males to different airborne pheromone concentrations for various time intervals prior to evaluate their behavioural response. By using different types of dispensers, male moths are exposed to three decreasing pheromone concentrations (up to the minimum concentration able to desensitize them) for 1, 3, and 24 h. The airborne pheromone concentration present in all treatments is accurately quantified using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry equipment to compare these data with actual airborne pheromone concentrations under field conditions. The effect of pheromone exposure on L. botrana males is studied in wind tunnel and electroantennogram assays, immediately and 24 h after the exposure period. Results show that the reduction of response to the pheromone depended on the dose and the duration of the treatment, but the lowest dose tested did not produce desensitization. These results support that the most important mechanisms of MD acting in fields treated against EGVM are the competitive ones and that the non‐competitive ones only may become relevant very close to pheromone dispensers. Our results support the hypothesis of cross‐adaptation to other chemical stimuli in the pre‐exposed moths to their pheromone although more studies are needed to draw stronger conclusions.
Respiratory and Peripheral Muscle Weakness and Body Composition Abnormalities in Non-Cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis Patients: Gender Differences

As demonstrated in COPD, bronchiectasis patients may experience respiratory and peripheral muscle dysfunction. We hypothesized that respiratory and peripheral (upper and lower limbs) muscle function and nutritional status may be more significantly altered in female than in males for identical age and disease severity. In mild-to-moderate bronchiectasis patients (n = 150, 114 females) and 37 controls (n = 37, 21 females), radiological extension, maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures (MIP and MEP), sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP), hand grip and quadriceps muscle strengths, body composition, and blood analytical biomarkers were explored. Compared to the controls, in all bronchiectasis patients (males and females), BMI, fat-free mass index (FFMI), fat tissue, upper and lower limb muscle strength, and respiratory muscle strength significantly declined, and FFMI, fat tissue, and quadriceps muscle function were significantly lower in female than male patients. In patients with mild-to-moderate bronchiectasis, respiratory and peripheral muscle function is significantly impaired and only partly related to lung disease status. Quadriceps muscle strength was particularly weakened in the female patients and was negatively associated with their exercise tolerance. Muscle weakness should be therapeutically targeted in bronchiectasis patients. Body composition and peripheral muscle function determination should be part of the comprehensive clinical assessment of these patients.
The Preliminary Evaluation of Epigenetic Modifications Regulating the Expression of IL10 in Insulin-Resistant Adipocytes

A higher level of IL10 expression in obesity and insulin resistance was observed in both human and mouse WAT. In our research, we analyzed the influence of insulin resistance on epigenetic modification within the promoter region IL10 gene and the potential influence of these modifications on its expression. Studies were performed using two cell models for the analysis: human, preadipocytes derived from adipose (visceral and subcutaneous) tissues and murine 3T3-L1 fibroblasts. We demonstrated a significant increase in the IL10 expression level, IL10 promoter region methylation, and histone 3 epigenetic modifications: H3K4me and H3K9/14ac, in insulin resistance cells (IR) from SAT cell culture. In IR cells from VAT cell culture, we observed decreased IL10 expression with a simultaneous increase of IL10 promoter region methylation. In IR cells from 3T3L1 cell culture, we observed the increased expression of IL10 as well as the decreased levels of methylation in the IL10 promoter region and histone methylation (H3K4me) and acetylation (H3K9/14ac). The presented analyses suggest a potential impact of epigenetic modifications on gene expression and a potential mutual influence of epigenetic modifications on each other or the activation of specific epigenetic regulation at a different stage of the development of insulin resistance in cells.
Can advertising enhance consumers' desirable COVID‐19 health behavioral intentions? The role of brand‐pandemic fit

Abstract This article explores the fit between the advertised brand and the pandemic as a potential influence on consumers' intentions to engage in socially responsible health behaviors (social distancing, mask wearing, and getting tested when exposed). In an advanced and emerging market setting we find that advertisements for brands that are perceived as high on brand‐pandemic fit enhance consumers' socially desirable COVID‐19 health behavioral intentions and changes in brand credibility is the mechanism that drives such intentions. Fit is especially beneficial on the intentions of consumers whose health beliefs reflect only low to moderate concern about COVID‐19. Consumers with low or moderate (vs. high) COVID‐19 health beliefs exhibit an increased susceptibility to the fit—desirable health behavioral intentions relationship. The results are also corroborated in an emerging market context. Together, the results establish links between brand‐pandemic fit of advertisements, brand credibility, health beliefs, and consumers' intentions to engage in socially desirable health behaviors. The results suggest that advertising can play a role in encouraging desirable health behaviors and can promote consumer welfare via ads of high fit products and services that provide benefits during the pandemic in both advanced and emerging markets.
Long-Term Pavement Performance Program Determination of In-Place Elastic Layer Modulus: Backcalculation Methodology and Procedures

Deflection data have been measured at periodic intervals with a falling weight deflectometer on all rigid, flexible, semi-rigid, and rehabilitated pavement test sections included in the Long-Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) program. A common use of deflection data is to backcalculate in-place layered elastic modulus values. The Federal Highway Administration sponsored earlier studies to backcalculate elastic layer modulus values from deflection basins measured on all LTPP test sections and included those computed values in the LTPP database. While the earlier studies focus on the use of nonlinear methods and were considered to have minimal success, some of the methods used have advanced within the past decade. As such, there was a need to revisit the methods used to improve on the results. This report summarizes all activities completed to backcalculate the elastic layered modulus from deflection basins measured on all test sections included in the LTPP program. Specifically, the report documents the tools, data analyses, backcalculation and forward calculation packages, and procedures used to calculate, on a production basis, the in-place elastic layer modulus of the LTPP test sections. Multiple packages (including BAKFAA, EVERCALC©, MICHBACK©, MODULUS, MODCOMP©, and the area and best fit methods) were considered and evaluated for estimating layered elastic modulus values on a production basis. The methods used in production for backcalculating elastic layer moduli include a combination of EVERCALC© and MODCOMP© for all types of pavements and the best fit method for rigid pavements. The methods and procedures, including the pre- and post-processing tools, have been automated so the results can be recreated by others not directly involved in development of the tools and procedures. The report also summarizes the results from the production runs to calculate the elastic layered modulus of flexible and rigid pavements (new construction and rehabilitation) as well as demonstrate the application and use of the results.
Diagnostic Policies Optimization for Chronic Diseases Based on POMDP Model

During the process of disease diagnosis, overdiagnosis can lead to potential health loss and unnecessary anxiety for patients as well as increased medical costs, while underdiagnosis can result in patients not being treated on time. To deal with these problems, we construct a partially observable Markov decision process (POMDP) model of chronic diseases to study optimal diagnostic policies, which takes into account individual characteristics of patients. The objective of our model is to maximize a patient’s total expected quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). We also derive some structural properties, including the existence of the diagnostic threshold and the optimal diagnosis age for chronic diseases. The resulting optimization is applied to the management of coronary heart disease (CHD). Based on clinical data, we validate our model, demonstrate how the quantitative tool can provide actionable insights for physicians and decision makers in health-related fields, and compare optimal policies with actual clinical decisions. The results indicate that the diagnostic threshold first decreases and then increases as the patient’s age increases, which contradicts the intuitive non-decreasing thresholds. Moreover, diagnostic thresholds were higher for women than for men, especially at younger ages.
Occupational Health and Safety Statistics as an Indicator of Worker Physical Health in South African Industry

Operations in general industry, including manufacturing, expose employees to a myriad of occupational health hazards. To prevent exposure, occupational health and safety regulations were enacted, with both employers and workers instituting various risk reduction measures. The analysis of available occupational disease and injury statistics (indicators of worker physical health) can be used to infer the effectiveness of risk reduction measures and regulations in preventing exposure. Thus, using the READ approach, analyses of occupational disease and injury statistics from South African industry, derived from annual reports of the Compensation Fund, were conducted. The publicly available database of occupational disease and injury statistics from the South African general industry is unstructured, and the data are inconsistently reported. This data scarcity, symptomatic of an absence of a functional occupational disease surveillance system, complicates judgement making regarding the effectiveness of implemented risk reduction measures, enacted occupational health and safety regulations and the status of worker physical health from exposure to workplace hazards. The statistics, where available, indicate that workers continue to be exposed to occupational health impacts within general industry, notwithstanding risk reduction measures and enacted regulations. In particular, worker physical health continues to be impacted by occupational injuries and noise-induced hearing loss. This is suggestive of shortcomings and inefficiencies in industry-implemented preventive measures and the regulatory state. A robust national occupational disease surveillance system is a regulatory tool that should detect and direct policy responses to identified occupational health hazards.
Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index is Associated with Prevalence and New-Appearance of Atrial Fibrillation in Japanese Urban Residents: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional and Cohort Study

Aim Physiological tests to assess systemic vascular function are not included in the risk score for atrial fibrillation (AF). We aimed to examine whether cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI), a systemic arterial stiffness parameter, is associated with the presence of AF in Japanese general population. Methods A cross-sectional study (N = 47,687) and a cohort study (N = 5418, four consecutive years) in Japanese urban residents who participated in annual health screening were conducted. Results A total of 164 subjects (0.34%) had AF in the cross-sectional data. After propensity score matching for age and gender, logistic regression analysis revealed that CAVI is independently associated with AF, as are body mass index and estimated glomerular filtration rate. In a 4-year cohort study, 22 subjects (0.41%) with new-appearance of AF showed higher CAVI at baseline than those without. In the receiver-operating-characteristic curve analysis, the area under the curve, which is a measure of predictability, of CAVI for the new-appearance of AF was 0.747, and the cut-off value of CAVI was 8.0. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that the cumulative incidence of new-appearance of AF was higher in subjects with CAVI ≥8.0 compared to those with CAVI <8.0. In Cox-proportional hazards analysis, CAVI ≥8.0 as well as gender were identified as independent predictors for the new-appearance of AF, whereas age ≥65 years was not. Conclusion Increased CAVI may represent a major modifiable risk factor for the development of AF. Studies are needed to confirm that CAVI is a predictor of AF independent of various AF risk factors and that CAVI-lowering interventions can prevent new-appearance or recurrence of AF.
Deposit insurance, banking stability and banking indicators

Abstract The deposit insurance system is a form of banking regulation that protects depositors and provides stability in the banking system. It is an important part of the financial safety net, especially in times of economic turmoil, as it provides explicit depositor protection and prevents a ‘bank run’. However, there are some negative effects on banking stability associated with the increase in bank risk, i.e., moral hazard, adverse selection and the principal-agent problem. The functioning of the deposit insurance system depends on its determinants, but also on the characteristics of the national banking system, supervision, legal and cultural framework and the general development of the country. Considering that the banking systems in EU and especially in comparison to Southeast European countries are very different, the aim of this paper is to study the impact of the deposit insurance system on bank stability depending on the characteristics of banks. Bank stability is analysed using bank risk variables: z-score and ratio of non-performing loans to total loans. By applying a dynamic panel analysis using the GMM Arellano–Bond (AB) estimator to a sample of EU countries and selected Southeast European countries, we provide further evidence on the deposit insurance system over the period from 2005 to 2014. The results provide evidence that large and systemically important banks behave in a riskier way, distorting the purpose of the deposit insurance scheme and jeopardising the safety of banking systems.
Social Media and COVID-19 News Sharing: Keeping Political Antecedents in Perspective

COVID-19 pandemic has piqued the research interest of medical professionals and social scientists. In social sciences COVID-19 based political campaigns and trends on social media have extended their implications in the domain of political communication. The dissemination of COVID-19 news on social media is widespread, however, the political factors influencing the spread of such news are less discussed. To explore these factors, we evaluated empirical data from 390 social media users in Pakistan by applying PLS-SEM modeling. Snowball sampling was implied to collect the data. Political interest, partisanship, political knowledge, and political efficacy were incorporated as antecedents of COVID-19 news sharing on social media. Major findings show political interest as the most significant antecedent of COVID-19 news sharing followed by political knowledge and partisanship. However, political efficacy did not display any significant influence on participants’ intentions of sharing COVID-19 news via social media. Based on the findings, theoretical and policy implications are suggested. Keywords: Social Media; COVID-19 News Sharing; Political Interest; Partisanship; Political Knowledge; Political Efficacy
Origanum vulgare L. essential oil effects on microbial pathogens causing vaginitis

Multidrug resistance of human isolates of bacteria that cause vaginal infections is one of most recent topics in scientific investigations along with the search for novel antimicrobial drugs originating from nature. Monitoring of antimicrobial activity of traditionally used herbal essential oils may give us basic perspective and directions for future studies design. Antimicrobial activity of commercial essential oil (EO) of Origanum vulgare against human clinical isolates of bacteria and Candida was determined by microdilution method, obtaining minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal/fungicidal concentration (MBC/MFC) (CLSI protocol). Both investigated strains of Candida as well as all bacterial strains, except P. aeruginosa, showed susceptibility to investigated EO. The most susceptible strain was Gram positive S. aureus1 strain unlike S. aureus2 which indicates strain specificity. Both Gram negative E. coli isolates (E. coli1 and E. coli2) showed resistance to all tested antibiotics in this study, and susceptibility to oregano EO at 12.5 ? l/ml. GC/MS analysis identified a total of 35 components (96.13%) in commercial oregano EO, with the most dominant phenol carvacrol (64.12%). Our data suggest that oregano EO possess potent antimicrobial activity and that human vaginal isolates shows strain specificity in antimicrobial susceptibility.