Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Physical Activity versus Sclerostin and Interleukin 6 Concentration in Patients Receiving Renal Replacement Therapy by Hemodialysis

Introduction Chronic kidney disease and renal replacement therapy are associated with reduced motor activity, which may result in the presence of mineral bone disorders and an increase in inflammation markers. The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between the performance of daily physical activity, expressed in the number of steps performed by patients undergoing hemodialysis and the concentration of selected biochemical parameters (SCL, IL-6). Patients and Methods The study group (B) involved 33 patients aged 59.8 ± 9.8 years from the dialysis station at the Department of Nephrology, Transplantology and Internal Medicine PUM. In group B, interventions considering an increase in physical activity expressed in the number of steps were introduced. Group C consisted of 30 people aged 54.9 (9.37), with GFR over 60 mL/min/1.73m. Physical activity was measured with pedometers. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were assessed at baseline, after the third and sixth month of the study. Descriptive statistics, intergroup comparisons using Mann–Whitney U test and Spearman correlation analysis were performed. The level of significance was set at p≤0.005. Results A relationship between IL-6 concentration and the number of steps in group B after three months of intervention was demonstrated. In group C, the concentration of SCL and IL-6 decreased with the increase in the number of steps taken. Only in group C the waist circumference decreased with the increase of the number of steps performed. Conclusion Patients receiving renal replacement therapy by hemodialysis showed significantly lower physical activity compared to people without kidney disease. Performing bigger number of steps can lower interleukin 6 levels in hemodialysis patients.
Prognostic Value of the FOXK Family Expression in Patients with Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer Following Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy

Purpose To assess the role of the expression levels of FOXK family members, FOXK1 and FOXK2, in predicting response to neo-chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) and prognosis in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). Methods A total of 256 LARC patients who underwent NCRT and radical resection between 2011 and 2017 were enrolled in the present study. The patients were divided into a training dataset (n=169, 2011–2015) and a validation dataset (n=87, 2016–2017). Tumor tissues were collected before NCRT and post-surgery and were used for immunohistochemical analysis. Results Oncomine database analysis revealed that FOXK1 and FOXK2 were overexpressed in most cancers especially in colorectal cancer. Additionally, overexpression of FOXK1 and FOXK2 was associated with poorer prognosis by the R2 database. In both our training and validation datasets, the expression of FOXK1 and FOXK2 was lower in the pathological complete response (pCR) group compared with the non-pCR group (P<0.05). Cox regression analysis demonstrated that pathological N stage (HR=1.810, 95% CI 1.159–2.827, P=0.009), FOXK1 expression (HR=5.831, 95% CI 2.925–11.625, P<0.001), and FOXK2 expression (HR=2.390, 95% CI 11.272–4.491, P=0.007) were independent predictors of disease-free survival (DFS). Based on the Cox multivariate analysis, we constructed a risk score model that served as a prognostic biomarker and had a powerful ability to predict pCR in LARC patients upon NCRT in both training and validation groups. Conclusion Expression levels of FOXK family members were associated with chemoradiotherapy resistance and prognosis of LARC patients following NCRT and were used to construct a risk score model that is a promising biomarker for LARC.
Patients with Sore Throat: A Survey of Self-Management and Healthcare-Seeking Behavior in 13 Countries Worldwide

Background Acute sore throat is one of the most common problems for which patients consult their general practitioner and is a key area for inappropriate antibiotic prescribing. The objective of this study was to investigate patients’ attitudes related to healthcare-seeking behavior and self-management of sore throat. Methods We conducted an observational, questionnaire-based study across 13 countries (Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Italy, the Philippines, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Thailand, the UK and the USA) on respondents who reported having had a sore throat in the previous 12 months. Data were collected on their experiences, contact with healthcare professionals, treatment practices and opinions about antibiotics. Results A total of 5196 respondents (approximately 400 per country) completed the survey. Over 80% of respondents sought advice for a sore throat, with 30% consulting a general practitioner. The desire to limit the worsening of symptoms was the main reason for seeking treatment. Other reasons concerned resolving persistent symptoms and reducing the impact on daily life/sleep. Self-management for sore throat was mainly medicated sore throat remedies. “Wanting an antibiotic” was rated much lower (55%) than most other reasons for visiting a doctor, but this differed greatly between countries. The percentage of respondents using antibiotics varied widely, for example, 10% in the UK and 45% in Saudi Arabia. There was considerable variation in the proportion of respondents who thought that antibiotics would be effective against sore throat (from 24% in France to 94% in Saudi Arabia). Conclusions Our findings suggest that knowledge of effective treatments for sore throat varied widely. The results of this study should enable healthcare professionals to better anticipate patients’ needs. This will support healthcare professionals in their role as antibiotic stewards, helping to reduce the misuse of antibiotics, and further guiding patients towards symptomatic self-management of sore throat.
Sepsis and cirrhosis in growing animals: description of a new experimental model and its pathological and immunological reliability

OBJECTIVES: In cirrhotic children, infection events and sepsis are more frequent and more severe due to immune dysfunction. The objectives of the current study were therefore to develop an experimental model of infection and sepsis in cirrhotic weaning growing rats, by the use of bile duct ligation (BDL) and cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Additionally, the correlation of the clinico-histopathological data and serial cytokine levels in septic cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic animals was studied. METHODS: Young Wistar rats of age 21 days and of weight between 70-90 g were divided into 12 groups according to the surgical procedure performed: sham (sacrificed after 2 or 4 weeks), BDL (sacrificed after 2 or 4 weeks), CLP (2- or 4-week old animals sacrificed after 12 or 24 hours), BDL+CLP (2- or 4-week old animals sacrificed after 12 hours). Histopathological studies and determination of serum levels of cytokines IL-1 beta, IL-10, and TNF-alpha, for studies of systemic infection, were performed. Murine sepsis scores (MSS) based on the clinical aspects just before euthanasia were also included. RESULTS: A transitory increase in IL-1, IL-10, and TNF-alpha levels was observed, with different patterns according to the groups. Two-hit groups tended to present with higher values of serum cytokines and histopathological scores than their septic non-cirrhotic counterparts. There was a correlation between mortality rate and MSS (p<0.0001). CONCLUSION: The model is feasible and may be utilized in studies on liver cirrhosis and infection in growing animals.
A Comparative Analysis between Ultrasound-Guided and Conventional Distal Transradial Access for Coronary Angiography and Intervention

Objectives To compare feasibility and safety between ultrasound-guided and conventional distal transradial access (dTRA). Background Distal transradial access, a new technique for coronary angiography (CAG) and percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI), is safe and feasible and will become popular worldwide. Ultrasound-guided dTRA has been advocated to reduce failure rate and access-site complications. However, to date, the comparison of feasibility and safety between ultrasound-guided and conventional dTRA has not been reported. Method Overall, 137 patients (144 procedures) who underwent CAG or PCI using dTRA between September 2018 and February 2019 were investigated. These patients were classified into two groups: C (dTRA with conventional punctures; 76 patients, 79 procedures) and U (dTRA with ultrasound-guided punctures; 61 patients, 65 procedures) groups. Successful procedural rate, procedural outcomes, and complication rate during hospital stays were compared between the two groups. Results The procedural success rate was significantly higher in the U group than in the C group (97% vs. 87%, P=0.0384). However, the rate of PCI, puncture time, total fluoroscopy time, the volume of contrast medium, the rate of access-site ecchymosis, and incidence of nerve disorder were similar between the two groups. Additionally, radial artery occlusion after the procedure did not occur in this study. Conclusion The ultrasound-guided dTRA for CAG or PCI was associated with a lower failure rate than conventional dTRA. However, there were no significant differences in puncture time and complication rate between the two procedures.
Genetic Differentiation and Its Bearing on Migration in North American Populations of the Corn Leaf Aphid, Rhopalosiphum maidis (Fitch) (Homoptera: Aphididae)

A survey of genetic variation at 21 electrophoretic loci in 15 natural populations of the corn leaf aphid Rhopalosiphum maidis reveals 8 loci useful for population comparisons. Within-population polymorphism levels range from 0–19% with Hillsboro, Tex. , the most variable population sampled. Fixed genetic difference between northern (Illinois), Bristow (Oklahoma), and southern (all other) populations suggest regional populations are clonally derived. In addition, the lack of heterozygosity in Illinois indicates that relatively few females may found northern populations. These genetic differences offer a new tool to study annual migration in R. maidis with preliminary evidence suggesting Illinois populations were not founded by aphids from the southern regions sampled. The origins and maintenance of this variation pose questions of evolutionary interest.
Component traits of plant water use are modulated by vapour pressure deficit in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.).

Traits influencing plant water use eventually define the fitness of genotypes for specific rainfall environments. We assessed the response of several water use traits to vapour pressure deficit (VPD) in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br. ) genotypes known to differ in drought adaptation mechanisms: PRLT 2/89-33 (terminal drought-adapted parent), H 77/833-2 (terminal drought-sensitive parent) and four near-isogenic lines introgressed with a terminal drought tolerance quantitative trait locus (QTL) from PRLT 2/89-33 (ICMR01029, ICMR01031, ICMR02042, and ICMR02044). Plant water use traits at various levels of plant organisation were evaluated in seven experiments in plants exposed either transiently or over the long term to different VPD regimes: biomass components, transpiration (water usage per time unit) and transpiration rate (TR) upon transient VPD increase (gH2Ocm-2h-1)), transpiration efficiency (g dry biomass per kg H2O transpired), leaf expansion rate (cm per thermal time unit) and root anatomy (endodermis dimensions)). High VPD decreased biomass accumulation by reducing tillering, the leaf expansion rate and the duration of leaf expansion; decreased root endodermis cell size; and increased TR and the rate of TR increase upon gradual short-term VPD increases. Such changes may allow plants to increase their water transport capacity in a high VPD environment and are genotype-specific. Some variation in water use components was associated with terminal drought adaptation QTL. Knowledge of water use traits' plasticity in growth environments that varied in evaporative demand, and on their genetic determinacy, is necessary to develop trait-based breeding approaches to complex constraints.
Telephone CPR: Current Status, Challenges, and Future Perspectives

Abstract With each successive update of the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) guidelines, the role of dispatchers in sudden cardiac arrest (CA) has grown. Dispatchers instruct callers in how to perform CPR until the arrival of emergency medical service (EMS) professionals. This is widely known as telephone CPR (TCPR) or dispatch-assisted CPR (DACPR). Studies have shown the efficacy of TCPR in increasing the survival rate of sudden CA. The TCPR process, however, is challenging and needs to be constantly evaluated and refined in order to improve the survival rate of sudden CA victims throughout the world. In this review article, the current status, challenges, and future perspectives of TCPR are discussed with a view to providing a research foundation from which to launch further studies into the effective role of dispatchers in sudden CA.
Perceived Safety and Travel Preferences of Cyclists in a Multi-Modal Transportation Network in Dublin City

In recent years, cycling has been recognized as a sustainable mode of travel to improve the transport energy efficiency of a city. The perception of cycling as an unsafe mode of travel is a significant obstacle in increasing the mode share of bicycles in a city. Hence, it is important to identify and analyze the factors which influence the safety experiences of the cyclists in an urban signalized mixed-mode transport network. A survey of existing cyclists in Dublin was conducted to gain an insight into the different aspects related to the safety experience of cyclists. Nearly 70% of the cyclists expressed that they perceive cycling to be less safe than driving. The survey responses were analyzed, using Principal Component Analysis and Ordered Logistic Regression, in three main categories: the current cycling behavior, the perception of safety and the interaction with the elements of the network. The analysis found that the attitude of car drivers, sharing of road space with buses and taxis, lack of familiarity with the network, usage of cycle lanes on footpaths, poor quality road surfaces and certain weather conditions were perceived as barriers to the safety of cyclists. Use of safety accessories and access to cycling facilities, factors typically assumed to be important to safety, were found not to be of great importance in contributing to the safety experience of existing cyclists. The policy implications of the analysis are discussed, which may provide essential information to the transport authorities not only in Dublin or Ireland but also in the countries where the bicycle mode share has been targeted to be increased. Formatted: Heading 1
Diversity and Age Relationships in Recent and Miocene Bivalves

Hecht, A. D. and B. Agan (Dept. of Geology, West Georgia College, Carrollton, Georgia 30117) 1972. Diversity and age relationships in Recent and Miocene bivalves. Syst. Zool. 21:308-312. -Data for diversity and average ages of first occurrence of Recent and Miocene bivalve genera along the east coast of the United States show that tropical areas of high diversity are characterized by a fauna that is geologically younger tlhan that of high latitude areas of low diversity. For Recent bivalves, average ages expressed as a mlodified survivorship curve indicate higher rates of evolution in the tropics than elsewhere. Diversity and average age of Miocene bivalve genera show a weaker gradient against latitude than modern ones and may reflect the fact that Miocene-Recent evolution in the tropics has not yet been distributed to higher latitudes. [Diversity; evolutioni; bivalves; Miocene. ]
Determinants of Acute Diarrhea Among Children Under-Five in Northeast Ethiopia: Unmatched Case–Control Study

Background Diarrheal disease is the second leading causes of death among under-five children. Most of the death due to diarrhea is reporting in developing countries. To prevent this highly prevalent problem, identifying the contributing factors across different settings is necessary. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the determinants of acute diarrhea among under-five children in the Northeast part of Ethiopia. Methods An institution-based unmatched case–control study was conducted among 306 under-five children from March to April 2019. A systematic random sampling technique was employed to select study participants. Data were collected by face to face interviews using a pretested structured questionnaire. Data were entered using Epi-info 7 and analyzed with SPSS version 20.0. We applied logistic regression analysis. Those variables with p-value <0.05 were significant determinants of acute diarrhea. Results Improper child’s stool disposal [AOR=4.12; 95% CI (1.25,13.5)], absence of home-based water treatment [AOR=2.85; 95% CI (1.27,6.42)], did not wash hand at critical times [AOR=5.47; 95% CI (1.68,17.8)], did not practice exclusive breastfeed [AOR=3.32; 95% CI (1.21,9.14], unable to get counseling from health professionals [AOR= 3.23; 95%,CI (1.15,13.5)], provide left over food to the child [AOR=2.96; 95% CI (1.19,7.32)], and maternal diarrhea [AOR=6.06; 95% CI (2.42,15.22)] were determinants of acute diarrhea among under five children. Conclusion Most of the determinants of acute diarrhea could be preventable. Thus, collaborative intervention by emphasizing health education about the importance of personal and environmental hygiene, safe food handling, exclusive breastfeeding practice, and home-based water treatment are essential.
Predictive Factors Affecting the Maxillary Alveolar Bone Thickness: A Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Study

Purpose Many important structures are associated with the maxillary alveolar bone and should be considered during orthodontic tooth movement. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between the anterior maxillary alveolar bone thickness (AMABT), inclination of the central incisors, and the incisive canal (IC), as well as changes in the thickness based on age and sex of the patients. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted using archived cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) records categorized according to age and sex. The parameters measured were; AMABT at three levels: alveolar crest, mid-root, and apex; incisor to palatal plane (Inc/PP) angle and IC width at palatal opening. OnDemand 3D Imaging software was utilized for image reconstruction and measurement. Data were analyzed using linear regression analysis and Mann–Whitney test. A P-value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results Out of the 300 CBCT images assessed, only 135 images (70 males and 65 females; age range=17–63 years) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The Inc/PP angle had a significant effect on the AMABT at the alveolar crest and mid-root levels (P<0.01). Width of the IC at palatal opening had a significant effect on AMABT at the mid-root and apex level (P<0.01). Age had a significant effect on AMABT at three levels (P<0.05). Males demonstrated significantly greater AMABT at all levels than females (P<0.01). Conclusion There was an association between AMABT and the Inc/PP angle, width of the IC at palatal opening, age, and sex of the patients.
Treatment of Recurrent Clostridioides difficile Infection Using Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Iranian Patients with Underlying Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Purpose Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an effective treatment option for patients with recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection (rCDI). However, there is a paucity of evidence regarding its efficacy and safety in patients with rCDI and concurrent inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Here, we present a single-center experience of FMT for treatment of rCDI in Iranian patients with IBD. Patients and Methods Eight patients with established IBD (7 with ulcerative colitis and 1 with Crohn’s disease) who underwent at least one FMT via colonoscopy for treatment of rCDI were enrolled in this study. Demographics, pre-FMT and post-FMT IBD activity, efficacy for rCDI and adverse events (AEs) were assessed during a 6-month follow-up period. All patients had experienced 3 episodes of rCDI and were refractory to conventional therapies with metronidazole and vancomycin. Primary cure and secondary cure rates were assessed after FMT treatments. Results A total of 10 FMTs were performed via colonoscopy in 8 patients (6/8; 75% men) with a median age of 35 years (range: 22–60). Two patients received a second FMT. Overall, the primary and secondary cure rates were 75% and 100%, respectively. Two patients developed CPE-producing C. perfringens diagnoses after second FMTs. There were no other AEs, and no patient experienced IBD flare. Conclusion We demonstrated that FMT appears to be an effective, safe and rational therapeutic alternative for resolution of rCDI in patients with underlying IBD. Furthermore, we suggest implementing the CPE-producing C. perfringens testing in the screening of FMT donors.
Assessment and Comparison of Patient Safety Culture Among Health-Care Providers in Shenzhen Hospitals

Purpose To investigate the health-care providers’ perceptions of patient safety culture in Shenzhen hospitals and to compare 2019 with 2015 data. Methods This cross-sectional study adopted a questionnaire survey and targeted hospital staff fitting the sampling criteria (physicians, nurses, technicians, and managers). A total of 5490 staff from 13 Shenzhen hospitals were surveyed using the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC). Results The average positive response rates of this study were generally higher than the data from the 2018 Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) survey and the 2015 HSOPSC Shenzhen survey. Bivariate and multivariate regression showed that respondents who had direct contact with patients were less likely to report high overall patient safety grade. The probability of high overall patient safety grade was rated higher by men than by women. Compared with nurses, the probability of high overall patient safety grade was higher for both physicians and technicians. Conclusion The overall results of the patient safety culture in Shenzhen hospitals were relatively good and have improved significantly in recent years, but some areas of weakness still need improvement. Our recommendations are to develop training programs for various positions, recruit more employees, provide management support, and establish a just culture to promote a strong patient safety culture. Regular assessment is also needed to provide valuable information to hospital leaders on areas requiring improvement and to evaluate the quality improvement plan that has been implemented.