Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effect of Time Since Smoking Cessation on Lung Cancer Incidence: An Occupational Cohort With 27 Follow-Up Years

Background This special cohort reveals the effect of smoking cessation in occupational miners exposed to radon and arsenic. Methods A total of 9,134 tin miners with at least 10 years of underground radon and arsenic exposure were enrolled beginning in 1992 and followed for up to 27 years. Detailed smoking information was collected at baseline, and information on smoking status was consecutively collected from 1992 to 1996. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to explore the relationship between time since smoking cessation and lung cancer. Results A total of 1,324 lung cancer cases occurred in this cohort over 167,776 person-years of follow-up. Among populations exposed to radon and arsenic, miners after quitting smoking for 10 years or more had almost halved their lung cancer risk [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.38–0.79], compared with current smokers. Among miners after quitting smoking for 5 years or more, lung cancer incidence approximately halved (HR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.30–0.92) for squamous cell lung carcinoma, while it showed no significant decline for adenocarcinoma (HR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.34–1.85). Conclusion Smoking cessation for 10 years or more halved lung cancer incidence among miners exposed to radon and arsenic, and the benefit was more pronounced among squamous cell lung carcinoma.
Are Situation Models Embodied?

Researchers have proposed that readers construct situation models when reading texts. According to Zwaan’s eventindexing model, a situation model can be analyzed in five dimensions: space, time, entity, causation, and motivation. There is robust behavioral evidence showing the existence of situation models from these five dimensions. However, the representational format of situational models, i.e. whether they are embodied or disembodied, is still controversial. Behavioral evidence is unable to answer this question, and only neural evidence testing both situation model construction and modality-specific activation can solve this problem. Three promising paradigms are sorted out, but not all of them give out expected results. We suggest that future experiments could focus on situated conceptualization, application of TMS, and depth of understanding.
Inference of Onset Age of Preclinical State and Sojourn Time for Breast Cancer.

Aims Accurate estimation of the three key parameters (sensitivity, time duration in disease-free state and sojourn time in preclinical state) in cancer screening are critical. Likelihood method with a new link function was applied to the Health Insurance Plan of Greater New York (HIP) breast cancer screening data, to estimate the onset age of preclinical state and the sojourn time in the preclinical state for breast cancer. Materials and Methods A new link function to model sensitivity as a function of time in the preclinical state and the sojourn time was adopted. Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulations were used to obtain posterior samples and make inference on the three key parameters. Maximum likelihood estimate was also used for comparison. Results The onset age of the preclinical state has a wide range for breast cancer; the peak onset age was 65.07 years (95% credible interval [C.I.], 55.76 to 73.02). The mean sojourn time was 2.00 years (95% C.I., 0.85 to 2.95). The 95 % C.I. for the sojourn time was 0.16 to 5.53 years. Sensitivity at onset of the preclinical state was 0.75 (95% C.I., 0.54 to 0.88); and sensitivity at the end of the preclinical state was 0.84 (95% C.I., 0.67 to 0.88). Conclusion The HIP study was the oldest breast cancer mass screening. The estimates reflect key parameters in those days with lower screening sensitivity. However, it is helpful to know other parameters in the planning for future breast cancer screening.
Sorption of cadmium, zinc and copper in dominant soils of the Zagreb aquifer system, Croatia

Contamination of soils with potentially toxic metals (PTMs) is an environmental problem. In this study, sorption of cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) in four soil profiles (two Fluvisols, one Gleysol, and one Cambisol), representing the dominant soils of the Zagreb aquifer system, were studied using a multi element laboratory batch test. Mathematical expressions were applied to establish the relationship between the concentration of the adsorbent in the liquid phase and the solid phaSe at equilibrium and in laboratory conditions. The study revealed that the investigated soils have a higher capacity to sorb Cu than Zn and Cd. The most significant physicochemical characteristics of soils, influencing sorption, are pH, carbonate content (minerals) and organic matter. Although all PTMs in all analyzed soils had a similar sorption capacity, the variation of sorption was higher in the siltic soils (Fluvisols) compared with the texturally finer (loamic) Gleysol and Cambisol soils, as well as in the subsoil horizons compared with the topsoils. Results indicate that sorption of PTMs is more influenced by physicochemical characteristics at different soil depths than by soil type, which is confirmed with a higher affinity for Zn and Cd bonding in the topsoil horizons. Also, it has been shown that Cd may pose more of a threat to soils and groundwater due to its toxicity and relatively high mobility in comparison with Zn and Cu.
Extensive Diversity and Prevalent Fluconazole Resistance among Environmental Yeasts from Tropical China

Yeasts play important roles in both the environment and in human welfare. While some environmental yeasts positively contribute to nutrient cycling and food production, a significant number of yeast species are opportunistic human pathogens, including several that are tolerant/resistant to commonly used antifungal drugs. At present, most of our understanding of environmental yeasts has come from a few terrestrial environments in selected geographic regions. Relatively little is known about yeast diversity in tropical environments and their potential impacts on human health. Here, we characterize culturable yeasts in 968 environmental samples from eight regions in tropical China. Among the 516 soil, 273 freshwater, and 179 seawater samples, 71.5%, 85.7%, and 43.6% contained yeasts, respectively. A total of 984 yeast isolates were analyzed for their DNA barcode sequences and their susceptibilities to fluconazole. DNA sequence comparisons revealed that the 984 yeast isolates likely belonged to 144 species, including 106 known species and 38 putative novel species. About 38% of the 984 isolates belonged to known human pathogens and the most common species was Candida tropicalis, accounting for 21% (207/984) of all isolates. Further analyses based on multi-locus sequence typing revealed that some of these environmental C. tropicalis shared identical genotypes with clinical isolates previously reported from tropical China and elsewhere. Importantly, 374 of the 984 (38%) yeast isolates showed intermediate susceptibility or resistance to fluconazole. Our results suggest that these environmental yeasts could have significant negative impacts on human health.
Insights into the Divergence of Chinese Ips Bark Beetles during Evolutionary Adaptation

Simple Summary Bark beetle species of the genus Ips are among the major pests of Chinese conifer forests. Based on mitochondrial genome and SNP, we investigated the phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary trends of 19 populations of six Ips species that had serious outbreaks in recent years. Our results demonstrated the relationships between Ips evolution and host plants, pheromones, and altitudinal differences, and provided new insights into the mechanism of adaptive evolution of Ips bark beetles. Abstract Many bark beetles of the genus Ips are economically important insect pests that cause severe damage to conifer forests worldwide. In this study, sequencing the mitochondrial genome and restriction site-associated DNA of Ips bark beetles helps us understand their phylogenetic relationships, biogeographic history, and evolution of ecological traits (e.g., pheromones and host plants). Our results show that the same topology in phylogenetic trees constructed in different ways (ML/MP/BI) and with different data (mtDNA/SNP) helps us to clarify the phylogenetic relationships between Chinese Ips bark beetle populations and Euramerican species and their higher order clades; Ips bark beetles are polyphyletic. The structure of the mitochondrial genome of Ips bark beetles is similar and conserved to some extent, especially in the sibling species Ips typographus and Ips nitidus. Genetic differences among Ips species are mainly related to their geographic distribution and different hosts. The evolutionary pattern of aggregation pheromones of Ips species reflects their adaptations to the environment and differences among hosts in their evolutionary process. The evolution of Ips species is closely related to the uplift of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and host switching. Our study addresses the evolutionary trend and phylogenetic relationships of Ips bark beetles in China, and also provides a new perspective on the evolution of bark beetles and their relationships with host plants and pheromones.
EFFICACY OF LIVE ATTENUATED FOWL ADENOVIRUS SEROTYPE 8B ISOLATE OF MALAYSIA IN SPECIFIC PATHOGEN-FREE CHICKENS

Fowl adenovirus (FAdV) is the primary agent of inclusion body hepatitis (IBH) in poultry and caused serious economic impact due to high mortality and poor productivity. To date, clinical cases of IBH in chickens increases over the years in Malaysia, thus, an effective local vaccine to control the disease outbreak is in dire need. The objective of the study was to determine the efficacy of live attenuated FAdV serotype 8b isolate, UPM1137CEL35, in specific-pathogen-free chickens. Attenuated isolate UPM1137CEL35 conferred full protection against the virulent FAdV isolate, UPM11134 in the vaccinated chickens. Neither clinical signs nor mortality were recorded in all vaccinated groups. However, in the challenged unvaccinated group, chickens showed clinical signs of weakness, reduced feed consumption, and lateral recumbency at day 4 to 7 postchallenge. Additionally, the body weight was low significantly (p<0.05) compared to the challenged vaccinated groups. Upon necropsy, the liver from the challenged unvaccinated group was pale at peripheral bilateral lobes with the presence of focal lymphoid aggregation microscopically, while, challenged vaccinated groups were normal without significant changes. All vaccinated chickens were protected from disease manifestations with antibody response compared to the challenged unvaccinated group. It was concluded that the attenuated FAdV isolate, UPM1137CEL35, has a high potential to be used as a vaccine against the FAdV serotype 8b of Malaysian isolates.
From Bat Mitzvah to the Bar: Religious Habitus, Self-Concept, and Women’s Educational Outcomes

This study considers the role of religious habitus and self-concept in educational stratification. We follow 3,238 adolescents for 13 years by linking the National Study of Youth and Religion to the National Student Clearinghouse. Survey data reveal that girls with a Jewish upbringing have two distinct postsecondary patterns compared to girls with a non-Jewish upbringing, even after controlling for social origins: (1) they are 23 percentage points more likely to graduate college, and (2) they graduate from much more selective colleges. We then analyze 107 interviews with 33 girls from comparable social origins interviewed repeatedly between adolescence and emerging adulthood. Girls raised by Jewish parents articulate a self-concept marked by ambitious career goals and an eagerness to have new experiences. For these girls, elite higher education and graduate school are central to attaining self-concept congruence. In contrast, girls raised by non-Jewish parents tend to prioritize motherhood and have humbler employment aims. For them, graduating from college, regardless of its prestige, is sufficient for self-concept congruence. We conclude that religious subculture is a key factor in educational stratification, and divergent paths to self-concept congruence can help explain why educational outcomes vary by religion in gendered ways.
Spectroscopic Analysis of CdO: Fe Plasma Generated by Nd: YAG Laser

In this work, the optical emission spectrum technique was used to analyze the optical emission spectrum of (CdO: Fe) plasma produced by laser Nd: YAG with a wavelength of (532) nm, a period of 10 ns, and a focal length of 10 cm in the energy range of (200-500) mJ. The electron temperature (Te) was determined using the method of line intensities ratio. Using the Saha-Boltzmann equation, the electron density (ne) was determined. Other plasma parameters such as plasma frequency (fp), Debye length (λD) and Debye number (ND) were also measured. The CdO: Fe (at a mixing ratio of X= 0.5.) plasma spectrum was observed for different energies. As a function of the laser energies, the changes in electron temperature and densities were studied. The value of the electron temperature, at X=0.5, was (0.420 - 1.160) eV for laser energy (200-500) mJ, respectively.
The Clinical, Microbiological, and Immunological Effects of Probiotic Supplementation on Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

(1) Background: Periodontal diseases are a global health concern. They are multi-stage, progressive inflammatory diseases triggered by the inflammation of the gums in response to periodontopathogens and may lead to the destruction of tooth-supporting structures, tooth loss, and systemic health problems. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of probiotic supplementation on the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease based on the assessment of clinical, microbiological, and immunological outcomes. (2) Methods: This study was registered under PROSPERO (CRD42021249120). Six databases were searched: PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Dentistry and Oral Science Source. The meta-analysis assessed the effects of probiotic supplementation on the prevention and treatment of periodontal diseases and reported them using Hedge’s g standardized mean difference (SMD). (3) Results: Of the 1883 articles initially identified, 64 randomized clinical trials were included in this study. The results of this meta-analysis indicated statistically significant improvements after probiotic supplementation in the majority of the clinical outcomes in periodontal disease patients, including the plaque index (SMD = 0.557, 95% CI: 0.228, 0.885), gingival index, SMD = 0.920, 95% CI: 0.426, 1.414), probing pocket depth (SMD = 0.578, 95% CI: 0.365, 0.790), clinical attachment level (SMD = 0.413, 95% CI: 0.262, 0.563), bleeding on probing (SMD = 0.841, 95% CI: 0.479, 1.20), gingival crevicular fluid volume (SMD = 0.568, 95% CI: 0.235, 0.902), reduction in the subgingival periodontopathogen count of P. gingivalis (SMD = 0.402, 95% CI: 0.120, 0.685), F. nucleatum (SMD = 0.392, 95% CI: 0.127, 0.658), and T. forsythia (SMD = 0.341, 95% CI: 0.050, 0.633), and immunological markers MMP-8 (SMD = 0.819, 95% CI: 0.417, 1.221) and IL-6 (SMD = 0.361, 95% CI: 0.079, 0.644). (4) Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that probiotic supplementation improves clinical parameters, and reduces the periodontopathogen load and pro-inflammatory markers in periodontal disease patients. However, we were unable to assess the preventive role of probiotic supplementation due to the paucity of studies. Further clinical studies are needed to determine the efficacy of probiotic supplementation in the prevention of periodontal diseases.
Real-World Evidence of Systemic Therapy Sequencing on Overall Survival for Patients with Metastatic BRAF-Mutated Cutaneous Melanoma

Aim: To evaluate optimal systemic therapy sequencing (first-line targeted therapy (1L-TT) vs. first-line immunotherapy (1L-IO)) in patients with BRAF-mutated metastatic melanoma. Methods: Nation-wide prospective data of patients with newly diagnosed BRAF-mutated metastatic melanoma were retrieved from the Canadian Melanoma Research Network. Results: Our study included 79 and 107 patients in the 1L-IO and 1L-TT groups, respectively. There were more patients with ECOG 0–1 (91% vs. 72%, p = 0.023) in the 1L-IO group compared to the 1L-TT group. Multivariable Cox analysis suggested no OS differences between the two groups (HR 0.838, 95%CI 0.502–1.400, p = 0.500). However, patients who received 1L-TT then 2L-IO had the longest OS compared to 1L-IO without 2L therapy, 1L-IO then 2L-TT, and 1L-TT without 2L therapy (38.3 vs. 32.2 vs. 16.9 vs. 6.3 months, p < 0.001). For patients who received 2L therapy, those who received 2L-IO had a trend towards OS improvement compared with the 2L-TT group (21.7 vs. 8.9 months, p = 0.053). Conclusions: Our nation-wide prospective study failed to establish any optimal systemic therapy sequencing in advanced BRAF-mutant melanoma patients. Nevertheless, we provided evidence that immunotherapy has durable efficacy in advanced BRAF-mutant melanoma patients, regardless of treatment line, and that Canadian medical oncologists were selecting the appropriate treatment sequences in a real-world setting, based on patients’ clinical and tumour characteristics.
Process evaluation protocol for the BeST? Services trial

Background: Outcomes for children who have been received into state care due to maltreatment or neglect are very poor in comparison to the general population. A mental health focussed intervention is being trialled in the UK which seeks to improve outcomes for such children. Although the main study is concerned with outcome evaluation (child mental health measures), a robust process evaluation adds nuance to the findings by examining the relationship between the interventions, the participants and the context-thereby determining what works, for whom and in what context. This paper sets out the protocol for that process evaluation. Methods: The process evaluation is embedded within a Randomised Control Trial and uses Realist Evaluation as its theoretical framework. It sets out the mechanisms of change that are used to effect positive outcomes and outlines the various aspects of the context (including service provision and the legal system that provides the statutory basis for involvement with families). Data collection is primarily qualitative and takes place with a large group of stakeholders. The analysis of the interplay between context, mechanisms and outcomes will provide a richer understanding of the main trial outcomes. Discussion: The nature of the interaction between the social, legal and practice context is complex. The use of a variety of methods including case studies, focus groups and analysis of routine data are justified and it is argued that they will provide for greater understanding of the nature of the interactions within such a challenging context.
Effectiveness of Video Games as Physical Treatment in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis: Systematic Review

Physical training at home by making individuals play active video games is a new therapeutic strategy to improve the condition of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). We reviewed studies on the use of video games and their benefits in the treatment of CF. We conducted a systematic review with data from six databases (PubMed, Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro, and Cochrane library plus) since 2010, according to PRISMA standards. The descriptors were: “Cystic Fibrosis”, “Video Game”, “Gaming Console”, “Pulmonary Rehabilitation”, “Physiotherapy”, and “Physical Therapy”. Nine articles with 320 participants met the inclusion criteria and the study objective. Patients who played active video games showed a high intensity of exercise and higher ventilatory and aerobic capacity compared to the values of these parameters in tests such as the cardiopulmonary stress test or the six-minute walk test. Adequate values of metabolic demand in these patients were recorded after playing certain video games. A high level of treatment adherence and satisfaction was observed in both children and adults. Although the quality of the included studies was moderate, the evidence to confirm these results was insufficient. More robust studies are needed, including those on evaluation and health economics, to determine the effectiveness of the treatment.
Lactic Acid Bacterial Fermentation Feed as Basal Ration: Addition Effect of Protein and Carbohydrate Protection on Rumen Fermentation of Bligon Goat

This study aims to examine the influence of feed heating on the volatile fatty acid (VFA), microbial protein, and ammonia concentrations in rumen fluid. The feed ingredients are a carbohydrate supply (corn), and a protein source (soybean meal) added to the basal ration through lactic acid bacteria fermentation. The livestock employed were Bligon goats weighing 25–29 kg and aged 1.5–2 years, fed by a combination of grass, concentrate (70:40), and additive feed. The present study was based on an in vivo examination of ruminal digestibility. The data were analyzed statistically using a split-plot design with two components. The first factor was feed treatment, which includes heating (soaking feed in 90°C water for five minutes under ambient air pressure) and non-heating. The second factor was ruminal fermentation time, consisting of 0 hours before and five hours after feeding. Sampling was done after treatment for two months. Each treatment was carried out with three replications. The results showed that heating did not significantly affect the total levels of VFA, acetate, propionate, butyrate, ammonia, and microbial proteins production. The fermentation time significantly affected the increase in propionate and butyrate fractions, but not for the total VFA levels, acetate fraction, ammonia, and microbial proteins. Propionate tended to increase by 55.52% for heated feed and 37.84% for non-heating feed. Butyrate tended to increase by 56.77% for heated feed and 26.32% for non-heating feed. Meanwhile, feed heating (non-heating) tended to cause a lower total VFA of 36.51% (60.54%), acetate of 23.43% (73.32%), ammonia of 17.98% (60.10%), and microbial protein of 4.17% (10.74 %). This study concluded that heating carbohydrate and protein as additive feed sources had not significantly affected changes in VFA, microbial protein, and ammonia levels. However, the heating effect tended to reduce the increase in total VFA levels, microbial protein acetate, and ammonia levels of rumen fermentation.