Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Plasma PCSK9 concentrations predict Cardiovascular Events in subjects free of vascular disease and with stable coronary artery disease: Findings from a community-based prospective study and a meta-analysis

Background The secreted protein proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a promising new target for lowering plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and preventing cardiovascular disease. Objective We aimed to determine the relationship between PCSK9 levels and cardiovascular (CV) events using a large cohort and a systematic review with meta-analysis. Methods We analyzed the association of plasma PCSK9 levels with CV events in 1324 subjects (mean age, 61.3 years) from a community-based population in Beijing, China. For the systematic review, we pooled the results of our cohort with other eligible studies in a meta-analysis using a random effects model. Results After a median follow-up interval of 4.8 years, 79 CV events were identified. Cox regression analysis showed that the presence of CV events (HR: 1.83, 95% CI, 1.07-3.17; P=0.046) was related to PCSK9 levels significantly. Combining another 8 prospective cohorts and our findings in a meta-analysis (9 prospective cohorts with a total of 13013 participants were included) showed a positive association between plasma PCSK9 levels and CV events, with a summary HR of 1.26 (95% CI: 1.07-1.50; P=0.007). When pooled estimates were derived for pre-existent and free of coronary artery disease (CAD) populations, baseline PCSK9 levels predicted total CV events only in subjects free of CAD (pooled HR: 1.34, 95% CI, 1.11-1.61; P=0.003). In patients with pre-existent CAD, further subgroup analysis showed that baseline PCSK9 levels predicted CV events only in subjects with stable CAD (pooled HR: 1.58, 95% CI, 1.04-2.38; P=0.030) but not in patients with unstable CAD (pooled HR: 1.02, 95% CI, 0.76-1.35; P=0.908). Conclusion Our findings in the Chinese cohort and the meta-analysis support that high plasma PCSK9 level was a predictive factor for future CV events in subjects free of CAD and with stable CAD but not in patients with established unstable CAD. Keywords PCSK9; cardiovascular events; cohort; meta-analysis.
Orthodontic knowledge and referral patterns: a survey of paediatric specialists and general dental practitioners

Abstract Introduction Early diagnosis and referral is essential in order to provide the best orthodontic care. Paediatric specialists (PSs) and general dental practitioners (GDPs) are usually the first dental professionals to diagnose a malocclusion. Aim To evaluate the knowledge and approach of PSs and GDPs in the management of children in reference to the timing of referral and early orthodontic intervention. Methods A survey assessed referral patterns and the respondents’ orthodontic knowledge regarding treatment timing and indications for early treatment in the early and late mixed dentition. Results One hundred and seventeen dentists participated in the study, of whom 79 were GDPs and 38 were PSs. The average total accuracy score in a 27-knowledge questionnaire was 68.6%, resulting in a statistically significant difference between the PSs and the GDPs. This difference arose from confusion regarding the prevention of maxillary permanent canine impaction and the need for a leeway space maintainer. Conclusions The GDPs and the PSs had a sound knowledge of orthodontics and a reasonable referral pattern, although the knowledge of PSs was significantly higher than that of the GDPs. There is a need for further education regarding orthodontic treatment needs and timing both in undergraduate/postgraduate training as well as in professional continuing education programs.
Effect of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations on endometrial carcinoma survival rates

Background: To evaluate Effect of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations on endometrial carcinoma survival rates. Methods : Data were collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas endometrial cancer database for pathogenic mutations in BRCA1 (58) and BRCA2 (77), coexisting BRCA1 /2 mutations (40), and non-mutations (461). Clinicopathological features and survival rates were compared. Survival time was analyzed using combined data and Cox proportional hazard models, with BRCA1 and BRCA2 as time-varying covariates. Results: Patients with BRCA1 mutations presented with higher risk disease (endometrioid endometrial carcinoma grade 3 and uterine serous carcinoma) than non-carriers and BRCA2 mutation carriers ( p = 0.005 non carriers vs BRCA1 mutation carriers, p = 0.008 BRCA1 mutation carriers vs BRCA2 mutation carriers). BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers tended to have more endometrioid endometrial carcinoma grade 3 than non-carrier group. Overall survival (OS) rates were higher for all patients with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations than non-carriers. Patients with BRCA2 mutations had the most favorable progression-free survival (PFS), followed by patients with BRCA1 and BRCA2 co-mutations, and then BRCA1 alteration carriers ( p = 0.011). BRCA1/2 non-carriers had the worst PFS and OS. Conclusions: Patients with BRCA1 mutations presented with higher risk disease than non-carriers and BRCA2 mutation carriers. BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers had more favorable OS and PFS than non- BRCA mutation carriers in patients with endometrioid endometrial carcinoma and uterine serous carcinoma.
An Upper Bound for the Mosaic Number of (2,q)-Torus Knots

In 2014, Hwa Jeong Lee, Kyungpyo Hong, Ho Lee, and Seungsang Oh provided and proved an upper bound for the mosaic number of torus knots in their article Mosaic Number of Knots [2]. In this paper, we will provide a new upper bound for the family of (2,q)-torus knots. Rather than approach this from a grid diagram standpoint, such as the proof in Mosaic Number of Knots, we will approach it in the general knot mosaic standpoint by analyzing the structure of an n × n grid. We will determine the mosaic number of (2,q)-torus knots up to the (2,12)-torus knot and establish an upper bound for the family’s mosaic number. Additionally, although earlier this year, in February 2016, Ludwig published the article Knot Mosaic Tabulation [4] with a proof for the mosaic number of the 63 prime knot, an original though similar proof will be covered as we formulated one independently while searching for the mosaic number of the (2,6)-torus link.
Manual Action Metaphors in Chinese
 A Usage-Based Constructionist Study

This article examines Chinese manual motor metaphors involving manual object manipulation as the source domain. Specifically, we use corpus data to investigate two transitive constructions, [抓紧 zhuājǐn ‘grab tightly, clutch’ NP] and [把住 bǎzhù ‘grasp firmly’ NP], and a causative construction, [把 bǎ NP 捧 pěng COMPL] ‘lift NP with deliberation’, where the referent of the np does not lend itself to manual manipulation in the literal sense and must be interpreted as metaphoric in the unity of semantic domains. Results from both quantitative and qualitative analyses show that the two transitive grasping actions are systematically used to abstract actions requiring a keen sense of urgency and/or importance, and that the causative action of lifting systematically conceptualises over-promotion of an undeserving entity. The findings point to the bodily origin of social cognition and the embodiment of conceptualisation.
Spillover Effects of Peer-to-Peer Lending on the Loan Losses of Commercial Banks

Financial technology (FinTech) companies are increasingly important in the financial system. We investigate the effect of peer-to-peer (P2P) lending on traditional banks’ loan losses by examining whether and how P2P lending activity in a state affects loan loss provisions of that state’s commercial banks. If P2P lending helps borrowers repay their bank loans, banks might report lower loan loss provisions. However, if P2P lending results in higher leveraged borrowers, banks might accrue higher loan loss provisions. Using a large sample of US single-state banks during 2009-2017, we find that banks in states where P2P lending volume is higher report higher loan loss provisions. This positive relation is stronger for banks with greater exposure to the consumer loan market and for banks whose consumer borrowers are already more leveraged. These findings support the overleveraging effect of P2P lending on banks’ consumer borrowers. We also find that P2P lending is associated with higher future loan charge-offs, which capture realized loan losses. Overall, our study offers new insights into the interaction between FinTech firms and traditional financial institutions.
Is comparison with experimental data a reasonable method of validating computational models?

In the case of laminar flow, once all property variations are included, properly modelled and correctly solved a good agreement with experimental data means that numerical model has been validated. However, for turbulent flows the difference between experimental and numerical results could be the effect of an inadequate model or the use of inappropriate boundary conditions. A better agreement with the experiment, might be obtained by “improving” the model, or by obtaining “better” boundary conditions or a combination of the two. This issue is explored in the paper using the example of LES of buoyancy-driven flow in a tall rectangular cavity. Based on comparison with experimental data, it is shown that introducing heat losses through the top wall in simulations brings the numerical results closer to the experimental data. However, an improved subgrid model with all non-isothermal walls being adiabatic also brings numerical results and experimental data closer, at least near the hot wall. Therefore, experimental results cannot be used to validate numerical model of turbulent flows with heat transfer unless thermal boundary conditions can be established with reasonable accuracy.
Tapping your way to success: using Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) to reduce anxiety and improve communication skills in social work students

Abstract By the nature of their professional training and practice placements, social work students are prone to situations provoking the onset of anxiety. A programme of academic and placement support, termed the ‘Skills Lab’, provides help and support for students to develop their communication skills and prepare for their practice placements and transition into professional social work practice. Skills Lab evaluations indicated a high level of appreciation, linked with a strong sense of apprehension and anxiety, which some students report has negatively affected their performance. To address student anxiety, a pilot study using Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) was developed. EFT is an intervention, which may potentially be effective in reducing academic anxiety and enhancing public speaking. This mixed-methods pilot study measured participants’ (n = 45) subjective distress and anxiety before and after using EFT. Subjective distress/anxiety was invoked through a 15-min assignment lecture. Twelve of the 45 students also participated in one-one interviews to elaborate on their experiences of EFT. Quantitative findings indicated participants reported significantly less subjective distress and anxiety after using EFT. Qualitative findings indicated three themes whereby participants found EFT calming, relaxing and helpful; considered the transferability of EFT in other settings; and proposed some of the mechanisms of EFT’s action.
Readiness, Access, Preparation, and Support for Foster Care Alumni in Higher Education: A Review of the Literature

ABSTRACT Research has shown that foster care alumni have poor educational outcomes and many do not enroll and/or graduate from a postsecondary institution. Many factors have been shown to promote and hinder a youth’s success in higher education and several programs and policies have been developed to address these issues. A literature review was conducted to identify and evaluate publications related to foster care alumni and higher education. A total of 51 scholarly reports and publications related to foster care alumni and higher education were reviewed, and the following three overarching themes emerged following the review: (1) college readiness, access, preparation, and support; (2) postsecondary programs and support for foster care alumni; and (3) outcomes and experiences of foster care alumni in higher education. This article reports on the first two themes, which included 22 articles/reports. Implications for social work and child welfare practice, future research, and policy are discussed.
Perception of abortion and associated female rights: use of behavior change communication strategies

Background: Developing and delivering tailored, context-specific messages could be beneficial, if delivered through acceptable and feasible channels of communication. Change in abortion-related behavior, being a sensitive and ethical issue, is difficult in developing countries like Pakistan. This study was conducted to change perceptions about abortion and associated female rights through behavior change communication strategies using religion-based elements in female attendees of Basic Health Units of District Lahore, Pakistan. Method: An Interventional study with Quasi-experimental design was carried out at basic health units (BHUs) of District Lahore, Pakistan during 2011-12. Total 100 eligible females were included in the study after taking written informed consent. 10 out of 37 BHUs were randomly selected for imparting religion-based, tailored messages using behavior change communication (BCC) strategies. 10 females at each BHU were conveniently recruited. Knowledge and perceptions about abortion and abortion-associated rights was assessed specifically on fate of unwanted pregnancy, decision-making, health seeking, health utilization, informed choices for prevention of abortion, abortion rights and fetal rights. Knowledge and perceptions before and after BCC were assessed to measure change on a structured, self-constructed, interviewer-administered questionnaire (local language). Data was analyzed in SPSS Version 20. Results: Mean age of 100 participants was 28.15+ 5.35 SD. 72.0 % females were between 21-30 years of age. Pre-BCC and post-BCC knowledge and perceptions were significantly different in what should be the fate of unwanted pregnancy, female should take decision about the fate of unwanted pregnancy, female has a right to decide about fate of unwanted pregnancy, why female should or should not decide about fate of unwanted pregnancy, female’s rights about seeking services of skilled personnel for delivery & termination of pregnancy, why female should or should not decide for seeking advice from skilled person for delivery & termination of pregnancy and decision about selecting place of delivery. The present study revealed that the intervention brought an observable percent point change in knowledge from 7.5% to more than 5 times. Conclusion: Specifically designed, tailored and contextualized messages using behavior change communication strategies can bring a significant improvement in abortion-related knowledge and perceptions of females.
Quantitative Evaluation of Chromosomal Rearrangements in Primary Gene-Edited Human Stem Cells by Preclinical CAST-Seq

Genome editing with programmable nucleases has shown great promise for clinical translation but also revealed the risk of genotoxicity caused by chromosomal translocations or the insertion of mutations at off-target sites. Here, we describe CAST-Seq, an innovative assay to identify and quantify chromosomal aberrations derived from on-and off-target activities of CRISPR-Cas nucleases or TALENs. CAST-Seq also detected novel types of chromosomal rearrangements, including homology-mediated translocations that are mediated by homologous recombination. Depending on the employed designer nuclease, translocations occurred in 0–0.5% of gene-edited human stem cells and some 20% of target loci harbored gross aberrations. In conclusion, CAST-Seq analyses are particularly relevant for therapeutic editing of stem cells to enable a thorough risk assessment before clinical application of gene editing products.
Comparison between anthropometry and multi-frequency bioimpedance for body composition evaluation in Brazilian elite U-20 soccer athletes

Young soccer players undertake anthropometric measurements for directing the effectiveness of training programs. However, the use of the eight-electrode electrical bioimpedance method is increasingly being used for the body composition evaluation. The purpose of this study was to compare and correlate body composition, using anthropometric predictive equations, with the use of electrical bioimpedance. Thirty Brazilian high-performance men, players of the U-20 category, participated in the study, while their position in the field was recorded. Anthropometrics were assessed using the predictive equations of Faulkner, Yuhasz, Carter, and Slaughter and electrical bioimpedance. There were no significant differences between methods for anthropometric evaluation, while traditional body composition analysis and bioimpedance showed moderate correlations with respect to the anthropometric protocols, Faulkner (r = 0.63, p<0.01), Yuhasz (r = 0.64, p<0.01), Carter (r = 0.64, p<0.01) and Slaughter (r = 0.53, p<0.01). According to the present investigation, bioimpedance with eight electrodes can be a reliable tool for the assessment of body composition in young soccer players.
Saliva viral load is a dynamic unifying correlate of COVID-19 severity and mortality

While several clinical and immunological parameters correlate with disease severity and mortality in SARS-CoV-2 infection, work remains in identifying unifying correlates of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) that can be used to guide clinical practice. Here, we examine saliva and nasopharyngeal (NP) viral load over time and correlate them with patient demographics, and cellular and immune profiling. We found that saliva viral load was significantly higher in those with COVID-19 risk factors; that it correlated with increasing levels of disease severity and showed a superior ability over nasopharyngeal viral load as a predictor of mortality over time (AUC=0.90). A comprehensive analysis of immune factors and cell subsets revealed strong predictors of high and low saliva viral load, which were associated with increased disease severity or better overall outcomes, respectively. Saliva viral load was positively associated with many known COVID-19 inflammatory markers such as IL-6, IL-18, IL-10, and CXCL10, as well as type 1 immune response cytokines. Higher saliva viral loads strongly correlated with the progressive depletion of platelets, lymphocytes, and effector T cell subsets including circulating follicular CD4 T cells (cTfh). Anti-spike (S) and anti-receptor binding domain (RBD) IgG levels were negatively correlated with saliva viral load showing a strong temporal association that could help distinguish severity and mortality in COVID-19. Finally, patients with fatal COVID-19 exhibited higher viral loads, which correlated with the depletion of cTfh cells, and lower production of anti-RBD and anti-S IgG levels. Together these results demonstrated that viral load, as measured by saliva but not nasopharyngeal, is a dynamic unifying correlate of disease presentation, severity, and mortality over time.
Comparative efficacy and safety of various mechanical thrombectomy strategies for patients with acute ischemic stroke: a Bayesian network meta-analysis

Background: Stent retriever, contact aspiration, and combined treatment are crucial mechanical thrombectomy strategies for patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare and rank three different mechanical thrombectomy strategies for AIS due to large vessel occlusion by means of a Bayesian network meta-analysis. Design: A systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis based on PRISMA guidelines. Data sources and methods: Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified in Embase, MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library database, and Clinicaltrials.gov from inception to 15 March 2022. We used random effect models to estimate corresponding odds ratios (ORs) and rank probabilities using pairwise and Bayesian network meta-analysis. We applied the grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) methodology to rate the certainty of evidence. Results: We identified 10 RCTs enrolling 2098 participants. As for modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0–2, moderate certainty evidence established all mechanical thrombectomy strategies that were more effective than standard medical treatment [combined: log OR 0.9288, 95% credibility intervals (CrI) 0.1268–1.7246; contact aspiration: log OR 0.9507, 95% CrI 0.3361–1.5688; stent retriever: log OR 1.0919, 95% CrI 0.6127–1.5702]. The same applied to mRS 0–3 (combined: log OR 0.9603, 95% CrI 0.2122–1.7157; contact aspiration: log OR 0.7554, 95% CrI 0.1769–1.3279; stent retriever: log OR 1.0046, 95% CrI 0.6001–1.4789). Combined treatment was superior to stent retriever in substantial reperfusion (log OR 0.8921, 95% CrI 0.2105–1.5907, high certainty). Stent retriever had the highest probability of being optimal for mRS 0–2 and mRS 0–3. Standard medical treatment had the lowest risk of subarachnoid hemorrhage. For all other outcomes, combined treatment was most likely the best treatment. Conclusion: Our results indicated that, with the exception of functional outcome, combined treatment might be the outstanding strategy. Apart from subarachnoid hemorrhage, all three mechanical thrombectomy strategies proved better strategies than standard medical treatment. Registration: PROSPERO (CRD42022351878).
Long-distance transequatorial navigation using sequential measurements of magnetic inclination angle

Diverse taxa use Earth’s magnetic field in combination with other sensory modalities to accomplish navigation tasks ranging from local homing to long-distance migration across continents and ocean basins. Several animals have the ability to use the inclination or tilt of magnetic field lines as a component of a magnetic compass sense that can be used to maintain migratory headings. In addition, a few animals are able to distinguish among different inclination angles and, in effect, exploit inclination as a surrogate for latitude. Little is known, however, about the role that magnetic inclination plays in guiding long-distance migrations. In this paper, we use an agent-based modelling approach to investigate whether an artificial agent can successfully execute a series of transequatorial migrations by using sequential measurements of magnetic inclination. The agent was tested with multiple navigation strategies in both present-day and reversed magnetic fields. The findings (i) demonstrate that sequential inclination measurements can enable migrations between the northern and southern hemispheres, and (ii) demonstrate that an inclination-based strategy can tolerate a reversed magnetic field, which could be useful in the development of autonomous engineered systems that must be robust to magnetic field changes. The findings also appear to be consistent with the results of some animal navigation experiments, although whether any animal exploits a strategy of using sequential measurements of inclination remains unknown.