Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Metabolic syndrome among apparently healthy adults residing in Delhi: Do vegetarian diets have a protective effect?

ABSTRACT Background and Aims: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) has reached epidemic levels, mainly attributed to sedentary lifestyles, poor diets, and obesity. Improved health is one of the reasons why people adopt a vegetarian diet. There are now sufficient data to support the health benefits of a vegetarian diet. However, the presumed beneficial health effects of a vegetarian diet are still unclear, particularly in the Indian context. This study assesses MetS among healthy urban adults following vegetarian and nonvegetarian diets and explores the protective role of vegetarian diets if any. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 healthy adults (35–60 years). An equal number of vegetarian and nonvegetarian male and female subjects were enrolled as per operational definitions. The prevalence of MetS was based on the NCEP-ATP III criteria. Results: The prevalence of MetS was the same among vegetarians (47.5%) and nonvegetarians (47%, P = 1). Regression analysis showed that the MetS score was significantly associated with age (β: 0.04, CI: 0.02–0.05, P < 0.001), gender (β: 0.51, CI: 0.29–0.74, P < 0.001), and physical activity (β: −0.27, CI: −0.55 to 0.01, P < 0.05). However, there was no significant association found between the prevalence of MetS and the type of diet (β: 0.13, CI: −0.10 to 0.36, P = 0.261). Conclusions: The study highlights a high prevalence of MetS among healthy urban adults residing in Delhi, India. The data, thus, show that a vegetarian diet did not have any protective impact against MetS, thus highlighting that it is important to consider the variations and quality of the vegetarian diets that negatively affect the body composition and contribute to the development of subsequent risk of developing MetS.
Quantitative Trait Inheritance in a Forty-Year-Old Longleaf Pine Partial Diallel Test

‘School of Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries, Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 2USDA Forest Service, Southern Research Station, Southern Institute of Forest Genetics, 23332 Hwy. 67, Saucier, MS 39574 31nternational Paper Inc., 719 Southlands Rd., Bainbridge, GA 31717 4Texas Forest Service, Forest Science Laboratory, Texas A & M University, College Station, Texas 77843 5USDA Forest Service, Southern Research Station, 2500 Shreveport Hwy. , Pineville, LA 71360
Hereditary Ataxias: From Bench to Clinic, Where Do We Stand?

Cerebellar ataxias are a wide heterogeneous group of movement disorders. Within this broad umbrella of diseases, there are both genetics and sporadic forms. The clinical presentation of these conditions can exhibit a diverse range of symptoms across different age groups, spanning from pure cerebellar manifestations to sensory ataxia and multisystemic diseases. Over the last few decades, advancements in our understanding of genetics and molecular pathophysiology related to both dominant and recessive ataxias have propelled the field forward, paving the way for innovative therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing and arresting the progression of these diseases. Nevertheless, the rarity of certain forms of ataxia continues to pose challenges, leading to limited insights into the etiology of the disease and the identification of target pathways. Additionally, the lack of suitable models hampers efforts to comprehensively understand the molecular foundations of disease’s pathophysiology and test novel therapeutic interventions. In the following review, we describe the epidemiology, symptomatology, and pathological progression of hereditary ataxia, including both the prevalent and less common forms of these diseases. Furthermore, we illustrate the diverse molecular pathways and therapeutic approaches currently undergoing investigation in both pre-clinical studies and clinical trials. Finally, we address the existing and anticipated challenges within this field, encompassing both basic research and clinical endeavors.
Wafer-Scale Al Junction Technology for Superconducting Quantum Circuits

Josephson tunnel junctions represent a key element in superconducting electronics and quantum circuits. For many years, shadow evaporation by means of Dolan-type bridges has been the state-of-the-art for deep sub- micrometer sized structures. Increasing demand in the number of Josephson junctions, e.g., in qubit circuits and travelling wave parametric amplifiers, requests for a wafer-scale fabrication process with precise control of junction parameters and have led to an advanced lift-off technique called Manhattan-type junction technology in recent years. Herein, we report on the development of a 100 mm wafer-scale fabrication technology for deep sub-micrometer sized Al Josephson junctions with linear dimensions down to 180 nm. The critical current IC of the junctions ranges from about 10 to 120 nA scaling with their linear dimensions. Low temperature transport measurements as well as room-temperature characterization has been used for IC and process homogeneity determination of series arrays of up to 50 Josephson junctions. We discuss technology parameters such as yield, on-chip and on-wafer reproducibility of the junction's critical currents as well as main process limitations. Moreover, we present experimental results on the characterization of first transmon-type qubits fabricated using this technology.
Knowledge transfer and exchange in health and safety: a rapid review

Abstract Workplace injury and illness can be burdensome for workers and workplaces regardless of jurisdiction. The notion of research to practice is important in health and safety research. The objective of this article is to describe and synthesize the literature describing knowledge transfer and exchange (KTE) approaches relevant to workplaces. A rapid review of the literature was done. Search strategies were run in eight electronic databases. Documents describing a KTE approach for workplaces were reviewed. Data related to key aspects of the KTE approach as well as conceptual guidance were extracted and synthesized. Literature searches revealed 34 documents that described 23 different KTE approaches designed to reach workplace audiences. Many KTE approaches were guided by conceptual frameworks. Common elements related to audience, activities and impact were found to guide future KTE approaches. Including workplace parties as an audience in a multi-faceted approach are important principles of KTE for health and safety.
The Association between Diagnosis-to-Ablation Time and the Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background: Catheter ablation (CA) for atrial fibrillation (AF) is superior to antiarrhythmic drugs in maintaining sinus rhythm. Novel evidence suggests that increasing the time between the first diagnosis of AF and ablation, or diagnosis-to-ablation time (DAT), is a predictor for AF recurrence post-ablation. Purpose: Our primary objective was to investigate the relationship between DAT and AF recurrence after a first ablation. Methods: Patients with AF who underwent CA in our center were enrolled consecutively, and a retrospective analysis was performed. DAT was treated as a continuous variable and reported as a median for the group with recurrence and the group without recurrence. DAT was also considered as a categorical variable and patients were stratified into three categories: DAT < 1 year, DAT < 2 years, and DAT < 4 years. Results: The cohort included 107 patients, with a mean age of 54.3 ± 11.7 years. Mean DAT was significantly longer in those with AF recurrence: 4.9(3.06) years versus 3.99(3.5) (p = 0.04). The Kaplan–Meier curve revealed a higher likelihood of AF-free status over time for patients with DAT < 2 years compared to those with DAT > 2 years (p = 0.04). Cox multivariate analysis indicated that left atrial volume index (LAVI), obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), and DAT > 2 years were independently associated with AF recurrence after a single AF ablation procedure (p = 0.007, p = 0.02, and p = 0.03, respectively). Conclusion: A shorter duration between the first AF diagnosis and AF ablation is associated with an increased likelihood of procedural success after a single AF ablation procedure.
The mRNA-LNP vaccines – the good, the bad and the ugly?

The mRNA-LNP vaccine has received much attention during the COVID-19 pandemic since it served as the basis of the most widely used SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in Western countries. Based on early clinical trial data, these vaccines were deemed safe and effective for all demographics. However, the latest data raise serious concerns about the safety and effectiveness of these vaccines. Here, we review some of the safety and efficacy concerns identified to date. We also discuss the potential mechanism of observed adverse events related to the use of these vaccines and whether they can be mitigated by alterations of this vaccine mechanism approach.
Whole-Body MRI at Initial Presentation of Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis, Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, Their Overlapping Syndrome, and Non-Specific Arthropathy

(1) Background: Whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (WB-MRI) is central to defining total inflammatory burden in juveniles with arthritis. Our aim was to determine and compare the initial distribution of lesions in the WB-MRI in patients with chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), their overlapping syndrome (OS), and with Non-specific Arthropathy (NA). (2) Methods: This retrospective single center study was performed on an Avanto 1.5-T MRI scanner with a dedicated multichannel surface coil system. A total of 173 pediatric patients were included with the following final diagnoses: CRMO (15.0%), JIA (29.5%), OS (4.6%), and NA (50.9%). (3) Results: Bone marrow edema (BME) was the most common abnormality, being seen in 100% patients with CRMO, 88% with OS, 55% with JIA, and 11% with NA. The bones of the lower extremities were the most affected in all compared entities. Effusion was seen in 62.5% children with OS, and in 52.9% with JIA, and in CRMO and NA, the exudate was sporadic. Enthesitis was found in 7.8% of patients with JIA and 3.8% with CRMO, and myositis was seen in 12.5% of patients with OS and in 3.9% with JIA. (4) Conclusions: The most frequent indication for WB-MRI in our center was JIA. The most common pathology in all rheumatic entities was BME, followed by effusion mainly seen in in OS and JIA. Enthesitis and myositis were less common; no case was observed in NA.
Development of a Simultaneous Quantification Method for Multiple Modes of Nitrogen in Leaf Models Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopic Measurement

By focusing our attention on nitrogen components in plants, which are important for cultivation management in data-driven agriculture, we developed a simple, rapid, non-chemical and simultaneous quantification method for proteinic and nitrate nitrogen in a leaf model based on near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopic information obtained using a compact Fourier Transform NIR (FT-NIR) spectrometer. The NIR spectra of wet leaf models impregnated with a protein–nitric acid mixed solution and a dry leaf model obtained by drying filter paper were acquired. For spectral acquisition, a compact MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) FT-NIR spectrometer equipped with a diffuse reflectance probe accessory was used. Partial least square regression analysis was performed using the spectral information of the extracted absorption bands based on the determination coefficients between the spectral absorption intensities and the contents of the two-dimensional spectral analysis between NIR and mid-infrared spectral information. Proteinic nitrogen content in the dry leaf model was well predicted using the MEMS FT-NIR spectroscopic method. Additionally, nitrate nitrogen in the dry leaf model was also determined by the provided method, but the necessity of adding the data for a wider range of nitric acid concentrations was experimentally indicated for the prediction of nitrate nitrogen content in the wet leaf model. Consequently, these results experimentally suggest the possibility of the application of the compact MEMS FT-NIR for obtaining the bioinformation of crops at agricultural on-sites.
A SIR Epidemic Model Allowing Recovery

The deterministic SIR model for disease spread in a closed population is extended to allow infected individuals to recover to the susceptible state. This extension preserves the second constant of motion, i.e., a functional relationship of susceptible and removed numbers, S(t) and R(t), respectively. This feature allows a substantially complete elucidation of qualitative properties. The model exhibits three modes of behaviour classified in terms of the sign of −S′(0), the initial value of the epidemic curve. Model behaviour is similar to that of the SIS model if S′(0)>0 and to the SIR model if S′(0)<0. The separating case is completely soluble and S(t) is constant-valued. Long-term outcomes are determined for all cases, together with determination of the rate of convergence. Determining the shape of the epidemic curve motivates an investigation of curvature properties of all three state functions and quite complete results are obtained that are new, even for the SIR model. Finally, the second threshold theorem for the SIR model is extended in refined and generalised forms.
Effect of vaginal douching with normal saline before insertion of dinoprostone vaginal insert for labor induction

ABSTRACT Objective: Vaginal pH has been suggested to be one of the causative factors, responsible for variation in prostaglandin efficacy for induction of labour. The purpose of this study was to analyse the effect of vaginal douching with normal saline before insertion of dinoprostone vaginal insert for induction of labour. Methods: This randomised controlled study was done in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology for a period of 1 year. Using a computer-generated random number table, subjects were allocated in two groups. In group A (study group), vaginal douching was done with 20 cc of sterile 0.9% NaCl and vaginal pH was again measured with pH paper strips just before inserting dinoprostone pessary. Dinoprostone pessary was inserted without douching in group B (control group). Results: There was a significant increase in the vaginal pH after douching with normal saline (4.91 vs 5.52, P < 0.001). Mean intrinsic vaginal pH (pH before inserting dinoprostone insert) in women who delivered vaginally was significantly higher than that of the women who had a caesarean section (5.10 vs 4.63, P < 0.001). Time interval between dinoprostone insertion to active phase of labour, duration of active phase of labour, time interval between dinoprostone insertion, and complete cervical dilatation and mode of delivery were not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion: Although douching with normal saline increases vaginal pH, douching does not help in increasing the chances of vaginal delivery because it gives a transient effect. Rather, it is intrinsic vaginal pH, which is a better decisive factor for successful vaginal delivery.
Excessive Oxygen Administration in High-Risk Patients Admitted to Medical and Surgical Wards Monitored by Wireless Pulse Oximeter

The monitoring of oxygen therapy when patients are admitted to medical and surgical wards could be important because exposure to excessive oxygen administration (EOA) may have fatal consequences. We aimed to investigate the association between EOA, monitored by wireless pulse oximeter, and nonfatal serious adverse events (SAEs) and mortality within 30 days. We included patients in the Capital Region of Copenhagen between 2017 and 2018. Patients were hospitalized due to acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) or after major elective abdominal cancer surgery, and all were treated with oxygen supply. Patients were divided into groups by their exposure to EOA: no exposure, exposure for 1–59 min or exposure over 60 min. The primary outcome was SAEs or mortality within 30 days. We retrieved data from 567 patients for a total of 43,833 h, of whom, 63% were not exposed to EOA, 26% had EOA for 1–59 min and 11% had EOA for ≥60 min. Nonfatal SAEs or mortality within 30 days developed in 24%, 12% and 22%, respectively, and the adjusted odds ratio for this was 0.98 (95% CI, 0.96–1.01) for every 10 min. increase in EOA, without any subgroup effects. In conclusion, we did not observe higher frequencies of nonfatal SAEs or mortality within 30 days in patients exposed to excessive oxygen administration.
Does Viewing Cats and Dogs Influence People’s Mood, Optimism, and the Desire to Have Children?

Photos of cats and dogs are among the most popular kinds of material on the internet. Our large-scale study (N = 8,865) tested the influence of viewing cat and dog images on the desire to have children, mood, and optimism. The main effects of priming on these three variables were insignificant, both in the general population and subpopulations of cat and dog lovers. Nevertheless, a priming–gender interaction had a slight influence on optimism in the general population. Additionally, liking of companion animals was associated with a lower number of children, whereas keeping of animals was associated with a higher number of children. This may indicate that animals do not decrease the fertility of their keepers as previously suggested, but that having children decreases liking for these animals. Our results showed that the effect of watching cats and dogs might be much weaker than previous studies suggest.
Rates of Compliance in South Indian American Communities of Southern California Regarding Cancer Screening

Background: Studies have shown lower rates of cancer screening and high mortality rates among all Asian Americans than among non-Hispanic White populations. However, most of these studies often confound diverse Asian American subgroups with limited data on cancer screening for Indian Americans, with this group being particularly interesting because of their counterintuitive socioeconomic status. For this reason, the objective of this study is to evaluate knowledge of the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) cancer screening guidelines and compliance among South Indian Americans residing in Southern California. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study gathering community responses through an electronic survey. The survey reports knowledge of USPSTF screening guidelines and participant compliance rates. Rates were further compared to non-Hispanic White populations from official sources. Results: South Indian Americans residing in California had lower rates of compliance for colorectal, lung, and breast cancer screening when compared to that of non-Hispanic White populations in the same region, with the exception of cervical cancer screening rates. Conclusion: Understanding the cultural characteristics of special populations, such as Indian Americans, can help communities adhere to more effective screening practices that can improve outcomes.
Caracterización del co-encapsulamiento de Lactobacillus plantarum y ácidos grasos omega-3 en una matriz de alginato-pectina

Los alimentos funcionales producen un efecto benéfico en la salud de quien los consume. Algunos de ellos se desarrollan adicionando probióticos o compuestos bioactivos, que son sensibles a condiciones adversas presentes durante la vida de anaquel del alimento o al pasar por el tracto gastrointestinal. En ambos casos, una alternativa para protegerlos, es encapsularlos en matrices grado alimenticio. Se co-encapsularon Lactobacillus plantarum y ácidos grasos omega-3 (Ω3) en una matriz de alginato-pectina. Los Ω3 se obtuvieron por extracción en frío de aceite de linaza; su análisis cuantitativo por cromatografía de gases mostro un contenido del 58 %. La relación de matriz polimérica que produjo mejores cápsulas fue 2:1, usando concentraciones de 1.5 % y 2.0 %, de alginato y pectina, respectivamente. La mejor relación matriz-probiótico-linaza fue de 5.0:1.0:1.0 (suspensión celular conteniendo aproximadamente 2.8 x 108 UFC/mL). Se obtuvieron cápsulas esféricas con carga superficial, negativa (- 4.6± 0.41 mV) y diámetros entre 150 y 200 μm. La eficiencia de encapsulamiento de L. plantarum fue del 85 %, observándose una disminución de 0.7±0.14 Log UFC/g, después de liofilizar las microcápsulas para mejorar su estabilidad durante el almacenamiento. Después de 30 días a -20 °C, no se observaron diferencias (p > 0.05) en la sobrevivencia del probiótico, ni cambios en la concentración de peróxidos del aceite co-encapsulados, indicando que el encapsulamiento protegió tanto a L. plantarum como a los Ω3. Estos micro-encapsulados podrían utilizarse en la formulación de productos funcionales debido a su bajo costo de producción y fácil estabilización.
Scenarios of giant tsunamis of tectonic origin in the mediterranean

Scenarios represent a very useful technique for the definition and evaluation of tsunami hazard and risk for any given region, and a basic step in the frame of tsunami mitigation and preparedness and of sustainable coastal zone development. With the exception of very few countries, like Japan and the United States, emergency plans in the rest of the world have never taken serious care of tsunamis until the occurrence of the giant Indian Ocean tsunami on December 26, 2004. That event dramatically brought the problem of tsunami hazard and risk assessment to the general attention and showed the urgent need for implementation of tsunami early warning systems (TEWSs). The problem is particularly urgent for the Mediterranean countries that are known to have been attacked by numerous tsunamis in the past, several of which had catastrophic size and impact. This paper is an attempt to develop some simple scenarios of earthquake-generated tsunamis in the Mediterranean. We identify four different seismogenic areas in the western, central and eastern sectors of the basin. For each of them, we take into account a seismic fault capable of generating an earthquake with magnitude equal or larger than the highest magnitude registered in that region in historical times. Then we simulate numerically the ensuing tsunamis, highlighting the basic features of the wave propagation and roughly identifying the coastal sectors that are expected to suffer the heaviest tsunami effects. One of the most important outcomes is that these scenario tsunamis attack the nearest coasts within at most 15 minutes, which poses serious constraints for designing appropriate TEWS for the Mediterranean.