Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Full Analysis of Lung Cancer Mortality/Radon Relationship with Simple Nonlinear Concepts

We analyze the relationship between the lung cancer mortality and the indoor radon intensity from the viewpoint of nonlinear mathematics. We conclude that their relationship is governed by the proportionality law where the cumulative lung cancer mortality Y is negatively proportional to the cumulative radon intensity X; or specifically, the nonlinear change of nonlinear face value (qYu – qY) is negatively proportional to the nonlinear change of nonlinear face value (X – Xb). The author obtained a set of data from late Professor Cohen on the lung-cancer mortality rate versus indoor radon level collected from 1,597 counties and territory of the USA. We initially presented the data as various primitive elementary graphs; then extended them to the primary graphs, leading graphs, and the proportionality graphs. The article emphasizes the building of a straight-line proportionality relationship for the dose-response data in a log-linear and/or log-log graphs. It demonstrates a straightforward methodology for solving the key upper asymptotes (Yu) for the proportionality equation using the Microsoft Excel via determining the “coefficient of determination”. (Note: q = log, Yu = upper asymptote of Y, Xb = bottom asymptote of X)
The Rise of ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction in Women of Northeast China

The women of China’s Liaoning province display some morbidities in ways that defy medical explanation. Women have higher rates of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and metabolic syndrome than men, an anomaly for all three conditions. Most of these patients also suffer from Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) while there was a negative association between being female and T2DM for the rest of China. Each of these conditions can exist independently, but the increase in both their rates and congruence is a recent phenomenon. Stranger still is that Liaoning women are now presenting in hospital emergency departments with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI), while diabetics predominantly suffer more benign Non-STEMI (NSTEMI) events. Confounding factors in any attempt to study this phenomenon include trace metals like manganese that have been shown to reduce systolic blood pressure in Asian men and raise it in Asian women. Some of the phenomenon may also be associated with the gene for Apolipoprotein 5, but its recent nature suggests other factors besides lipid profiles. Trace metals in the air, water, and diet of Liaoning province, or any urban environment, could play a role.
Smoking and COVID-19: A Scoping Review

Smoking affects a person’s overall health and damages nearly every organ of the body. Since smoking tobacco affects and damages the lungs, it increases the risk of respiratory infections and makes it easier for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) to invade the lung tissue, causing more severe symptoms and increasing the risk of death. However, debates are still ongoing as to the effect of cigarette smoking on vulnerability to COVID-19. Some studies, where active smokers were underrepresented among patients with COVID-19, claimed that a “smoker’s paradox” may exist in COVID-19 and that smokers are protected from infection and severe complications of COVID-19. However, other studies reported the opposite trend. The objective of this study is to review the findings of epidemiological and in vitro studies about the association between smoking and the risk of contracting COVID-19, taking into account disease severity. Several epidemiological studies have found a higher smoking prevalence among COVID-19 infected patients. Also, studies had shown that people with respiratory diseases caused by tobacco use are at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms. Studies have shown that in vitro, the acute exposure allows for more severe proximal airway epithelial disease from SARS-CoV-2 by reducing the mucosal innate immune response and the proliferation of airway basal stem cells and has implications for disease spread and severity in people exposed to cigarette smoke, with a more severe viral infection and cell death. Smoker patients with different comorbidities are at higher risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus and have a worse prognosis for the virus as well as for their comorbidities. Further investigations of the interaction between smoking and COVID-19 are warranted to accurately assess the risk of contracting COVID-19 among smokers, and the progression to mechanical ventilation or death in patients who suffer from it.
Triple Aim and the Hospital Readmission Reduction Program

Objectives: Despite substantial attention on hospital readmission rates, the impact of the Hospital Readmission Reduction Program (HRRP) on a comprehensive set of Triple Aim goals has not been studied: improve hospital quality, reduce cost, and improve patient experience. Methods: We analyze inpatient claims data from 2006 to 2015 from the Dallas Fort Worth Hospital Council Foundation with a panel of 27,397 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and congestive heart failure. We deploy a quasi-natural experiment using a difference-in-difference specification to estimate the effect of HRRP effect on readmission rates, length of stay (LOS), and hospital satisfaction. Results: We find that the likelihood of 30-day readmissions declined by 2.6%, average LOS decreased by 7.9%, and overall hospital rating increased by 2.1% among hospitals that fell under the scope of the HRRP, compared to non-HRRP hospitals. Our results provide evidence of a spillover effect of the HRRP in terms of its impact not only on Medicare patients, but across all insurance types, and other performance measures such as cost and patient experience. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that HRRP hospitals do not trade-off reductions in readmission rates with lower quality across other patient health outcomes. Rather, we find evidence that the HRRP has affected all 3 dimensions of the Triple Aim with respect to patient and hospital outcomes.
Mental health among elite athletes in Norway during a selected period of the COVID-19 pandemic

Objective To investigate the prevalence of mental health problems and satisfaction with life among different groups of elite athletes during a selected period of the COVID-19 pandemic and examine how COVID-19 related consequences were associated with these variables. Design Cross-sectional data collection during a selected period of the COVID-19 pandemic in Norway. Participants 378 elite athletes, mean age 26.86 (range 18–59), 159 females and 219 males, divided into Olympic-level and Paralympic-level athletes (n=194) and elite and semielite athletes (n=184). Main outcome measures Hopkins Symptoms Check List − 10; symptoms of anxiety and depression; Bergen Insomnia Scale; Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire Short; Canadian Problem Gambling Index and Satisfaction with Life Scale. In addition, we included specific COVID-19 questions (eg, financial concern, keeping daily routines, perceived coping and motivation). Results Symptoms of insomnia (38.3%) and depression (22.3%) were most prevalent within the sample. Symptoms of eating disorders more prevalent among female athletes (8.8% vs 1.4%) while symptoms of gambling problems were higher among male athletes (8.6% vs 1.3%). Olympic and Paralympic athletes reported lower levels of anxiety and depression symptoms than elite and semielite athletes. Financial concerns were associated with an increased risk of mental health problems, while daily routines and perception of coping were associated with less mental health problems and higher satisfaction with life. Conclusion Symptoms of insomnia and depression were the two most common mental health problems reported during this selected phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Elite and semielite athletes reported financial concerns as a risk factor for mental health problems at a larger degree than Olympic and Paralympic athletes.
The Effect of Test Distance on Visual Contrast Sensitivity Measured Using the Pelli-Robson Chart

Purpose The Pelli-Robson (PR) chart is widely used to measure clinical contrast sensitivity (CS). It is generally believed that PR testing distance is not critical. Here, we examine whether a closer test distance than the usual 1 meter might be better for patients with low vision. Methods PR CS was measured on two groups: low-vision students (<20 years old) and elder patients (>65 years old). Student PR was measured at 1 meter and at a closer distance d = visual acuity in log10cy/deg (d = 1.5–logMAR). Elder PR was measured at 1 and 3 meters. Grating CS was also measured using the Ohio Contrast Cards (OCCs). Results Average CS was 0.398 log10 units (over one line on the PR chart) higher at the closer distance than at 1 meter for the students, but there was no effect of 1 vs. 3 meters test distance for the elders. The equivalent spatial frequencies of the PR letters at 1 meter were near the acuity limits of students with low vision, but were near the peak of the elders’ CS functions. Especially for students with low vision, PR CS was below OCC CS, even when PR was tested at a closer distance. Conclusions PR CS should be measured at a distance in meters that is equal to the patient's letter acuity in cy/deg, or 1.5–logMAR. Translational Relevance Contrast sensitivity is highly associated with quality of life, and it is important to measure it accurately. Using a closer distance, or measuring grating CS, can reveal visual abilities missed when patients with low vision are tested using PR at 1 meter.
Formation of Highly Crystallized β‐PbO Thin Films by Cathodic Electrodeposition of Pb and Its Rapid Oxidation in Air

The process of electrodeposition of β‐PbO thin films from aqueous solutions of PbII salts has been studied in detail. Contrary to the mechanism assumed in previous studies, thin films of crystalline β‐PbO are obtained after cathodic electrolysis in aqueous solutions of various soluble salts of PbII (Pb(NO3)2, Pb(ClO4)2, and Pb(CH3COO)2), and in both the presence and the absence of O2, thus indicating no contribution of OH– generation by electroreduction of NO3– and/or O2 to the formation of β‐PbO. A gradual color change is noted: a freshly electrodeposited gray film turns yellow as it dries in air. Drying of the films under controlled atmosphere (Ar or O2), combined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) measurement, has revealed that freshly deposited films are of metallic Pb, which are oxidized and converted into β‐PbO. Such a reaction is operative only when a freshly electrodeposited activated wet Pb film is in contact with gaseous O2. Despite the rapid conversion of a solid material, the resultant β‐PbO thin films are highly crystallized and possess highly ordered internal nanostructure. Elongated nanoparticles (30 nm × 100 nm) are assembled in a regular alignment to compose a large platelet (greater than 10 μm in size) with single‐crystalline character, as revealed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation and selected‐area electron diffraction (SAED) measurement.
Tuberculosis care cascade for the indigenous population in Colombia: an operational research study*

ABSTRACT Objective. Construct and evaluate the care cascade for pulmonary tuberculosis in the indigenous population of the department of Cauca (Colombia) and identify existing gaps. Methods. Mixed-methods sequential explanatory design. In the first phase, the pulmonary tuberculosis care cascade for the indigenous population of Cauca was evaluated. Data were obtained from secondary sources and all cases diagnosed from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2017 were included. In the second phase, semi-structured interviews were done with nine program coordinators and 11 nursing auxiliaries to explain identified gaps. Absolute and percentage values were estimated for each of the steps and gaps in the care cascade. Quantitative and qualitative results were triangulated. Results. In 2016 and 2017, an estimated 202 patients with respiratory symptoms were expected to be positive and 106 cases of pulmonary tuberculosis were reported among the indigenous population of the department of Cauca. A gap of 47.5% was found for diagnosis, since only 52.5% of subjects were diagnosed in health services. This gap was explained by poor quality of samples and flawed smear techniques; flaws in correct identification of patients with respiratory symptoms; limited access to diagnostic methods, such as culture and molecular tests; and limited training and high turnover of personnel in health service provider institutions. Conclusions. The tuberculosis control program should focus actions on bridging the gap in case detection in the indigenous population.
Effect of Fe–N Codoping on the Optical Properties of TiO2 for Use in Photoelectrolysis of Water

TiO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by green chemistry where organic solvents are replaced by an aqueous extract solution of lemongrass leaves that act as a reducer and growth-stopper agent. The nanoparticles were codoped with N–Fe to modify the absorption range in the electromagnetic spectrum and were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), and UV–vis/diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). The modified samples with Fe and N resulted in smaller nanoparticle size values than pure TiO2. Similarly, the band-gap energy for doped nanoparticles decreased to 2.22 eV in relation to the value of 3.09 eV for pure TiO2, due to the introduction of new energy levels.
Retinoic Acid Induced Protein 14 (Rai14) is dispensable for mouse spermatogenesis

Background Retinoic Acid Induced Protein 14 (Rai14) is an evolutionarily conserved gene that is highly expressed in the testis. Previous experiments have reported that small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated gene knockdown (KD) of Rai14 in rat testis disrupted spermatid polarity and transport. Of note, a gene knockout (KO) model is considered the “gold standard” for in vivo assessment of crucial gene functions. Herein, we used CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing to investigate the in vivo role of Rai14 in mouse testis. Methods Sperm concentration and motility were assayed using a computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) system. Histological and immunofluorescence (IF) staining and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to visualize the effects of Rai14 KO in the testes and epididymides. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) was used to determine apoptotic cells. Gene transcript levels were calculated by real-time quantitative PCR. Results Rai14 KO in mice depicted normal fertility and complete spermatogenesis, which is in sharp contrast with the results reported previously in a Rai14 KD rat model. Sperm parameters and cellular apoptosis did not appear to differ between wild-type (WT) and KO group. Mechanistically, in contrast to the well-known role of Rai14 in modulating the dynamics of F-actin at the ectoplasmic specialization (ES) junction in the testis, morphological changes of ES junction exhibited no differences between Rai14 KO and WT testes. Moreover, the F-actin surrounded at the ES junction was also comparable between the two groups. Conclusion In summary, our study demonstrates that Rai14 is dispensable for mouse spermatogenesis and fertility. Although the results of this study were negative, the phenotypic information obtained herein provide an enhanced understanding of the role of Rai14 in the testis, and researchers may refer to these results to avoid conducting redundant experiments.
Flash CGM Is Associated With Reduced Diabetes Events and Hospitalizations in Insulin-Treated Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract Purpose Suboptimal glycemic control among individuals with diabetes is a leading cause of hospitalizations and emergency department utilization. Use of flash continuous glucose monitoring (flash CGM) improves glycemic control in type 1 and type 2 diabetes, which may result in lower risk for acute and chronic complications that require emergency services and/or hospitalizations. Methods In this retrospective, real-world study, we analyzed IBM MarketScan Commercial Claims and Medicare Supplemental databases to assess the impact of flash CGM on diabetes-related events and hospitalizations in a cohort of 2463 individuals with type 2 diabetes who were on short- or rapid-acting insulin therapy. Outcomes were changes in acute diabetes-related events (ADE) and all-cause inpatient hospitalizations (ACH), occurring during the first 6 months after acquiring the flash CGM system compared with event rates during the 6 months prior to system acquisition. ICD-10 codes were used to identify ADE for hypoglycemia, hypoglycemic coma, hyperglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and hyperosmolarity. Results ADE rates decreased from 0.180 to 0.072 events/patient-year (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.39 [0.30, 0.51]; P < 0.001) and ACH rates decreased from 0.420 to 0.283 events/patient-year (HR: 0.68 [0.59 0.78]; P < 0.001). ADE reduction occurred regardless of age or gender. Conclusions Acquisition of the flash CGM system was associated with reductions in ADE and ACH. These findings provide support for the use of flash CGM in type 2 diabetes patients treated with short- or rapid-acting insulin therapy to improve clinical outcomes and potentially reduce costs.
The impact of feeding experiences during infancy on later child eating behaviours

Purpose of review Individual differences in appetite and eating behaviours appear early in infancy. This review synthesizes recent research investigating the impact of feeding experiences during infancy on later appetite and energy intake regulation, and appraises the consistency and longevity of any effects. Recent findings Three themes of early feeding experiences were identified; breastfeeding, infants’ first foods and caregivers’ feeding practices. Recent findings suggest that breastfeeding alone is unlikely to promote better regulation of food intake later in childhood. It remains unclear whether the method of first food introduction (e.g., baby-led weaning vs traditional spoon feeding), or types of food introduced (e.g. ultra-processed foods), affect later child eating self-regulation. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on receiving guidance for responsive feeding showed some benefits; lower child body mass index z-scores in toddlerhood, parents reported less likelihood to pressure their child to eat or use food as a reward and lower emotional eating in the child. Summary There is little consistent new evidence for the lasting impact of any one specific infant feeding experience on later eating self-regulation. More RCTs using observed and measured behaviours, with longer follow-ups of children's eating behaviours, and those conducted across different populations are warranted.
Maternal lipid levels in pregnant women without complications in developing risk of large for gestational age newborns: a study of meta-analysis

Background: Circulating into foetal circulation across the placental barrier, abnormal maternal serum lipids predispose neonates to metabolic dysfunction and thereafter affect the steroid metabolism and functions of extra-embryonic foetal tissues. Methods: A systematic review was conducted by searching PubMed–MEDLINE and the Cochrane library between January 2010 and January 2020. The included studies were English case control studies that described original data on at least one raw lipid measurement during pregnancy in healthy women who delivered large for gestational age (LGA) newborns and in healthy women with non-LGA newborns. The data extracted from 12 studies were pooled, and the weighted mean difference (WMD) in lipid levels was calculated using random effects models. A meta-analysis was performed to identify sources of heterogeneity and to describe the significant value of the collected studies. Results: Of 649 published articles identified, a total of 12 met the inclusion criteria . Compared with women who had non-LGA newborns, those who had LGA newborns had significantly higher triglyceride (TG) levels (WMD = 0.28, 95% CI −0.02 to 0.54) and lower high density lipoprotein cholestrol (HDL-C) levels (WMD = 0.08, 95% CI −0.13 to −0.03), but not have significantly lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Moreover, the levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) were inconsistent between both groups. Conclusions: High levels of TG and low levels of HDL-C could cause births of LGA newborns whereas maternal serum of TC, LDL-C and VLDL-C cannot be used as predictor of LGA.
Guidelines for the use and interpretation of assays for monitoring autophagy (4th edition)1

ABSTRACT In 2008, we published the first set of guidelines for standardizing research in autophagy. Since then, this topic has received increasing attention, and many scientists have entered the field. Our knowledge base and relevant new technologies have also been expanding. Thus, it is important to formulate on a regular basis updated guidelines for monitoring autophagy in different organisms. Despite numerous reviews, there continues to be confusion regarding acceptable methods to evaluate autophagy, especially in multicellular eukaryotes. Here, we present a set of guidelines for investigators to select and interpret methods to examine autophagy and related processes, and for reviewers to provide realistic and reasonable critiques of reports that are focused on these processes. These guidelines are not meant to be a dogmatic set of rules, because the appropriateness of any assay largely depends on the question being asked and the system being used. Moreover, no individual assay is perfect for every situation, calling for the use of multiple techniques to properly monitor autophagy in each experimental setting. Finally, several core components of the autophagy machinery have been implicated in distinct autophagic processes (canonical and noncanonical autophagy), implying that genetic approaches to block autophagy should rely on targeting two or more autophagy-related genes that ideally participate in distinct steps of the pathway. Along similar lines, because multiple proteins involved in autophagy also regulate other cellular pathways including apoptosis, not all of them can be used as a specific marker for bona fide autophagic responses. Here, we critically discuss current methods of assessing autophagy and the information they can, or cannot, provide. Our ultimate goal is to encourage intellectual and technical innovation in the field.