Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Geographic Differences in Lung Transplant Volume and Donor Availability During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Background. Regional variation in lung transplantation practices due to local coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prevalence may cause geographic disparities in access to lung transplantation. Methods. Using the United Network for Organ Sharing registry, we conducted a descriptive analysis of lung transplant volume, donor lung volume, new waitlist activations, and waiting list deaths at high-volume lung transplant centers during the first 3 months of the pandemic (March 1. 2020, to May 30, 2020) and we compared it to the same period in the preceding 5 years. Results. Lung transplant volume decreased by 10% nationally and by a median of 50% in high COVID-19 prevalence centers (range –87% to 80%) compared with a median increase of 10% (range –87% to 80%) in low prevalence centers (P-for-trend 0.006). Donation services areas with high COVID-19 prevalence experienced a greater decrease in organ availability (-28% range, –72% to –11%) compared with low prevalence areas (+7%, range –20% to + 55%, P-for-trend 0.001). Waiting list activations decreased at 18 of 22 centers. Waiting list deaths were similar to the preceding 5 years and independent of local COVID-19 prevalence (P-for-trend 0.36). Conclusions. Regional variation in transplantation and donor availability in the early months of the pandemic varied by local COVID-19 activity.
The effect of cooling and rehydration methods in high moisture meat analogs with pulse proteins-peas, lentils, and faba beans.

Pulse proteins (PLP) can be ideal alternative-sources that produce a meat-like textured product, known as a high moisture meat analog (HMMA). In this research, each commercial PLP: pea (16%), lentil (16%), and faba-bean (20%) was mixed with pea isolate (63%, 63%, and 59%, respectively) and constant ingredients which are canola oil (6%) and wheat gluten (15%) and texturized to produce HMMA using a twin-screw extruder (TX-52) with a cooling die. Soy concentrate and soy isolate were mixed with the constant ingredients and texturized into an HMMA and used as a control. Before freezing for storage, each sample was cooled by air, water, or a brine solution (2% or 4%) for 10 min. Frozen samples were thawed at room temperature (25 °C) for 3 hr and rehydrated by soaking at 25 °C for 2 hr, warm-soaking at 50 °C for 12 hr, or boiling for 2 min. Color, moisture content (MC), specific density (SD), water absorption index (WAI), water solubility index (WSI), and texture were measured. Compared to the control, samples with PLP had less lightness and texture and greater redness, yellowness, MC and WSI. The 2% brine solution used for cooling reduced WSI without textural change compared to other cooling methods. Boiling for rehydration increased lightness while warm-soaking decreased lightness and increased yellowness. In addition, boiling resulted in the least MC, SD, WSI, and WAI following soaking and warm-soaking. Therefore, these PLP can be used as alternative meat sources to soy proteins and a 2% brine solution for cooling and rehydration by boiling are recommended to reduce the WSI. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Pulses are an excellent food ingredient because they are rich in protein and have an exceptional nutritional profile. In this study, high moisture meat analogs containing pea proteins, lentil proteins, faba bean proteins, and pea isolate instead of soy concentrate and soy isolate were produced. According to the results, pulse proteins can be an alternative source to soy proteins. Since they formed relatively well-defined orientation. Further research can be conducted using modified processing conditions for texturization to improve its quality. In addition, this research can help researchers and product developers understand proper handling methods for HMMA products after production such as cooling before freezing for storage and thawing and rehydrating after freezing.
A novel mutation in NF1 gene of patient with Neurofibromatosis type 1: A case report and functional study

Neurofibromatosis type 1 is an autosomal dominant inherited disease and caused by NF1 gene mutation. Its clinical manifestations include multiple cafe´‐au lait (CAL) spots, skinfold freckling, neurofibroma, bone dysplasia, learning disabilities, and an increased risk of malignancy.
Retrospective Study of Salivary Gland Tumor Cases in a Large Italian Public Hospital and Review of the Literature.

ABSTRACT A variety of tumors can develop in the salivary glands. The aim of this retrospective study was to describe the demographic characteristics of salivary gland tumors (SGT) in the population of a large area of the city of Rome, ASL RM1, over a 4-year period and compare these data with other epidemiological studies. Forty-nine cases were diagnosed as SGT; 63.2% were males and 32.6% were females. The mean age range was 62.13 years. Forty SGT (81.6%) were benign and 9 (18.4%) were malignant. Among benign tumors, Warthin' s tumor was the most common tumor, comprising 55.1% all SGTs followed by Pleomorphic Adenoma and other less common types. Among malignant tumors, Non-Hodgkin lymphoma was the most frequent type. The results of this study suggest that benign tumors are most common in parotid gland and are mainly represented by Warthin's Tumor. Males are the most affected, especially for benign lesions. Regarding malignant tumors, the incidence by gender is variable, as the incidence of several types worldwide. The findings of this study contribute to the knowledge regarding the incidence of SGT.
The Differential Effects of Caregiving Intensity on Overnight Hospitalization

This study aims to examine how caregiving for a spouse affects caregivers’ likelihood of overnight hospitalization. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study, we examine the odds of spousal caregivers experiencing an overnight hospitalization in the previous two years according to caregiving status, intensity, and change in caregiving intensity. Caregivers were no more likely to experience an overnight hospitalization than noncaregivers (OR = .92; CI [.84, 1.00]). Effects varied by intensity of care. Compared to noncaregivers, caregivers who reported providing no assistance with activities of daily living were less likely to experience overnight hospitalization (OR = .77; CI [.66, .89]); however, caregivers who provided care to someone living with dementia for 4 to <6 years had 2.11 times the odds of experiencing an overnight hospitalization (CI [1.16, 3.85]). Although caregivers overall experience overnight hospitalization at a similar rate as noncaregivers, there are differences between caregivers by the intensity of care.
School-based relationships and problematic internet use amongst Chinese students

The potential for adolescent mental health problems arising from heavy internet use is significant. There is a need to better understand the risk and protective factors related to problematic internet use (PIU) amongst adolescents. This study examined the role of adolescents’ perceptions of school-based relationships as potential contextual antecedents to problematic internet use. Specifically, 6552 adolescent students (55.9% boys, 13.51 ± 2. 93 years) from 22 primary and middle schools in southern China completed questionnaires to measure the degree of adolescent conflict with peers, teachers and other staff, school connectedness, perceived classroom atmosphere and problematic internet use. Self-reported data was collected using a two-level stratified sampling. Multiple regression analyses showed that conflict with peers and teachers was positively associated with higher levels of PIU, while school connectedness and perceived classroom atmosphere were negatively associated with PIU. An interaction effect was found for conflict with peers and grade level, such that the association between conflict with peers and PIU was stronger for secondary students compared to primary school students. The results support the need for school-based interventions for PIU to include a focus on conflict with peers and teachers, and for a focus on the enhancement of school connectedness and classroom atmosphere.
Next Generation Fecal Microbiota Transplantation

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is considered as an effective treatment for Clostridioides difficile infection. However, the precise mechanism of FMT is yet to be determined. Human stool consists of the gut microbiota, bacterial debris, and metabolic products. Of these, the intestinal microbiota is the most important factor that exerts therapeutic efficacy in FMT. Fresh donor stool, blended with normal saline, has been employed for traditional FMT. Nevertheless, stool processing is a major impediment in FMT. Frozen stool and capsule formulations have similar efficacy to that of fresh stool. In addition, several novel stool products have been identified. A stool bank that provides stool products with pre-screened donor stool has been established to help physicians and thereby facilitate FMT. Recent next-generation sequencing techniques have been key in facilitating the detailed analysis of the microbiota and gut environment of individual donors and recipients.
Seasonality, climate change, and food security during pregnancy among indigenous and non-indigenous women in rural Uganda: Implications for maternal-infant health

Background Climate change is expected to decrease food security globally. Many Indigenous communities have heightened sensitivity to climate change and food insecurity for multifactorial reasons including close relationships with the local environment and socioeconomic inequities which increase exposures and challenge adaptation to climate change. Pregnant women have additional sensitivity to food insecurity, as antenatal undernutrition is linked with poor maternal-infant health. This study examined pathways through which climate change influenced food security during pregnancy among Indigenous and non-Indigenous women in rural Uganda. Specific objectives were to characterize: 1) sensitivities to climate-associated declines in food security for pregnant Indigenous women; 2) women’s perceptions of climate impacts on food security during pregnancy; and 3) changes in food security and maternal-infant health over time, as observed by women. Methods Using a community-based research approach, we conducted eight focus group discussions—four in Indigenous Batwa communities and four in non-Indigenous communities—in Kanungu District, Uganda, on the subject of climate and food security during pregnancy. Thirty-six women with ≥1 pregnancy participated. Data were analysed using a constant comparative method and thematic analysis. Results Women indicated that food insecurity was common during pregnancy and had a bidirectional relationship with antenatal health issues. Food security was thought to be decreasing due to weather changes including extended droughts and unpredictable seasons harming agriculture. Women linked food insecurity with declines in maternal-infant health over time, despite improved antenatal healthcare. While all communities described food security struggles, the challenges Indigenous women identified and described were more severe. Conclusions Programs promoting women’s adaptive capacity to climate change are required to improve food security for pregnant women and maternal-infant health. These interventions are particularly needed in Indigenous communities, which often face underlying health inequities. However, resiliency among mothers was strong and, with supports, they can reduce food security challenges in a changing climate.
Minimal residual disease level determined by flow cytometry provides reliable risk stratification in adults with T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia

Minimal residual disease (MRD) is an important independent prognostic factor for relapse and survival in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). Compared with adult B‐cell ALL, reports of adult T‐cell ALL (T‐ALL) MRD have been scarce and mostly based on molecular methods. We evaluated the prognostic value of multiparameter flow cytometry (FCM)‐based MRD at the end of induction (EOI‐MRD). The present retrospective study included 94 adult patients with T‐ALL. MRD was detected by six‐ to eight‐colour FCM. Patients who were EOI‐MRD positive had a higher cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR) (87·6% vs. 38·8%, P = 0·0020), and a lower relapse‐free survival (RFS) (5·4% vs. 61·0%, P = 0·0005) and overall survival (OS) (32·7% vs. 69·7%, P < 0·0001) than those who were EOI‐MRD negative. Moreover, for patients who received allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) at their first remission, EOI‐MRD positivity was predictive of post‐transplant relapse (2‐year CIR: 68·2% vs. 4·0%, P = 0·0003). Multivariate analysis showed that EOI‐MRD was an independent prognostic factor for CIR [hazard ratio (HR) 2·139, P = 0·046], RFS (HR 2·125, P = 0·048) and OS (HR 2·987, P = 0·017). In conclusion, EOI‐MRD based on FCM was an independent prognostic factor for relapse and survival in adult T‐ALL. For patients who underwent HSCT, EOI‐MRD could be used to identify patients with a high risk of relapse after allo‐HSCT.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Applications for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Other Retinal Dystrophies

ABSTRACT Artificial intelligence (AI), with its subdivisions (machine and deep learning), is a new branch of computer science that has shown impressive results across a variety of domains. The applications of AI to medicine and biology are being widely investigated. Medical specialties that rely heavily on images, including radiology, dermatology, oncology and ophthalmology, were the first to explore AI approaches in analysis and diagnosis. Applications of AI in ophthalmology have concentrated on diseases with high prevalence, such as diabetic retinopathy, retinopathy of prematurity, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and glaucoma. Here we provide an overview of AI applications for diagnosis, classification, and clinical management of AMD and other macular dystrophies.
Phosphoproteomics reveals a distinctive Mec1/ATR signaling response upon DNA end hyper‐resection

The Mec1/ATR kinase is crucial for genome maintenance in response to a range of genotoxic insults, but it remains unclear how it promotes context‐dependent signaling and DNA repair. Using phosphoproteomic analyses, we uncovered a distinctive Mec1/ATR signaling response triggered by extensive nucleolytic processing (resection) of DNA ends. Budding yeast cells lacking Rad9, a checkpoint adaptor and an inhibitor of resection, exhibit a selective increase in Mec1‐dependent phosphorylation of proteins associated with single‐strand DNA (ssDNA) transactions, including the ssDNA‐binding protein Rfa2, the translocase/ubiquitin ligase Uls1, and the Sgs1‐Top3‐Rmi1 (STR) complex that regulates homologous recombination (HR). Extensive Mec1‐dependent phosphorylation of the STR complex, mostly on the Sgs1 helicase subunit, promotes an interaction between STR and the DNA repair scaffolding protein Dpb11. Fusion of Sgs1 to phosphopeptide‐binding domains of Dpb11 strongly impairs HR‐mediated repair, supporting a model whereby Mec1 signaling regulates STR upon hyper‐resection to influence recombination outcomes. Overall, the identification of a distinct Mec1 signaling response triggered by hyper‐resection highlights the multi‐faceted action of this kinase in the coordination of checkpoint signaling and HR‐mediated DNA repair.
Cardiac-Autonomic and Hemodynamic Responses to a Hypertonic, Sugar-Sweetened Sports Beverage in Physically Active Men.

Hydration practices may confound heart rate variability (HRV) measurements when collected in the pre-training period. We aimed to determine the effects of ingesting a hypertonic, sugar-sweetened sports beverage on HRV and hemodynamic parameters in physically active young men. Fifteen subjects consumed 591 ml of Gatorade (6% carbohydrate, ~330 mOsmol/kg), 591 ml water, or 10 ml water (control) in random order on separate days following overnight fasting. HRV and hemodynamics were evaluated in 5-min windows immediately before (T1) and 5-10 min (T2), 25-30 min (T3), 40-45 min (T4), and 55-60 min (T5) post-drinking. Root-mean square of successive differences and the standard deviation of normal RR intervals increased post-water intake at all time-points relative to T1 (P <0.05). No increases were observed post-Gatorade intake, though small effect sizes (ES) were noted at T2 and T3 (P >0.05, ES = 0.27 - 0.32). Systemic vascular resistance increased at T2 post-Gatorade intake and at T2 and T3 post-water intake (P <0.05). No interactions were observed for blood pressure measures, stroke volume, or cardiac output. Gatorade does not evoke cardiovascular adjustments to the same magnitude as water. Practitioners should wait at least 45 min to record HRV post-Gatorade intake and >60 min post-water intake. Key Findings: ● Equal volumes of cold water and Gatorade produce inequivalent cardiac-autonomic and hemodynamic responses. ● HRV responses of greater amplitude and duration were observed following intake of water versus Gatorade. ● Failure to account for recent fluid intake may result in misinterpretation of autonomic status.
How macrophages respond to two-dimensional materials: a critical overview focusing on toxicity

Abstract With wider use of graphene-based materials and other two-dimensional (2 D) materials in various fields, including electronics, composites, biomedicine, etc., 2 D materials can trigger undesired effects at cellular, tissue and organ level. Macrophages can be found in many organs. They are one of the most important cells in the immune system and they are relevant in the study of nanomaterials as they phagocytose them. Nanomaterials have multi-faceted effects on phagocytic immune cells like macrophages, showing signs of inflammation in the form of pro-inflammatory cytokine or reactive oxidation species production, or upregulation of activation markers due to the presence of these foreign bodies. This review is catered to researchers interested in the potential impact and toxicity of 2 D materials, particularly in macrophages, focusing on few-layer graphene, graphene oxide, graphene quantum dots, as well as other promising 2 D materials containing molybdenum, manganese, boron, phosphorus and tungsten. We describe applications relevant to the growing area of 2 D materials research, and the possible risks of ions and molecules used in the production of these promising 2 D materials, or those produced by the degradation and dissolution of 2 D materials.
An exploration of factors related to service utilization in emerging adults: Loneliness and psychosocial supports

Abstract Objective: To examine the relationships between loneliness and psychosocial supports, emerging adult service utilization, and barriers to utilization. Participants: 18 to 29-year-old students enrolled in a large Midwestern University (n = 292). Methods: Online surveys were administered to all participants involving information on loneliness, social supports, basic need satisfactions, community/university service utilization, and barriers to service use. Logistic and linear regressions, analysis of variance were conducted. Results: Emerging adults were found to have a greater likelihood of service utilization when higher in social support from friends and less likely to utilize services when high in relatedness and competence need satisfaction, specifically in regard to community services. Group differences in greater barriers to service utilization were found among the highest levels of loneliness and the lowest levels of need satisfaction. Conclusion: Overall, this study indicates psychosocial supports and loneliness are related to service utilization in a nuanced manner.
Single Treatment Protocol With Microneedle Fractional Radiofrequency for Treatment of Body Skin Laxity and Fat Deposits

Treatment modalities have been developed to address patient concerns with skin laxity and focal adipose excess. A previously published multicenter clinical trial reported improvement in cellulite severity after a single dermal and subcutaneous treatment on the upper thigh with a microneedle radiofrequency device. In the current study, this device was used to improve the esthetic appearance of body skin laxity and localized fat deposits above the knee, upper arms, and upper‐mid back/axillary region (“bra‐line”).
Reduction of Severe Exacerbations of COPD during COVID-19 Pandemic in Portugal: A Protective Role of Face Masks?

Abstract Viral infections are known to be the main trigger for Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations. Face masks are acknowledged for effective viral aerosol shedding reduction. COVID-19 pandemic generated an opportunity to study the impact of face masks and confinement on droplet transmission diseases, usually implicated in acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD). We aimed to evaluate the variation on severe AECOPD (sAECOPD) rate in a Portuguese COPD cohort during the first COVID-19 lockdown and following months. This retrospective self-controlled study enrolled 322 adult patients followed at COPD-specialized consultation in a tertiary hospital from February 2016 to July 2020, of whom 286 met inclusion criteria. Severe AECOPD events were registered from March 2020 (beginning of state of emergency) until July 2020. From 2016 to 2019 there was a mean of 38 patients per year with sAECOPD. During 2020, 11 patients experienced sAECOPD. Over the course of 2020 there was a 73.4% (p < 0.001) decrease in sAECOPD events comparing with previous years’ average. After the end of State of Emergency, the rate of sAECOPD events also declined by 74.6% (p < 0.001) comparing with the same timeline of previous years. Results were consistent and statistically significant when comparing 2020 with each of previous years for every period of analysis. Our findings suggest a sustained decrease in the rate of sAECOPD during confinement and in the following months. The widespread use of face mask and social distancing during COVID-19 pandemic may play an important role in preventing the transmission of respiratory infections and consequently reducing sAECOPD.