Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Could long-term dialysis vintage and abnormal calcium, phosphorus and iPTH control accelerate aging among the maintenance hemodialysis population?

Abstract Objective Aging is a complex process of physiological dysregulation of the body system and is common in hemodialysis patients. However, limited studies have investigated the links between dialysis vintage, calcium, phosphorus, and iPTH control and aging. The purpose of the current study was to examine these associations. Methods During 2020, a cross-sectional study was conducted in 3025 hemodialysis patients from 27 centers in Anhui Province, China. Biological age was calculated by a formula using chronological age and clinical indicators. The absence of the target range for serum phosphorus (0.87–1.45 mmol/L), corrected calcium (2.1–2.5 mmol/L) and iPTH (130–585 pg/mL) were identified as abnormal calcium, phosphorus, and iPTH control. Results A total of 1131 hemodialysis patients were included, 59.2% of whom were males (669/1131). The mean (standard deviation) of actual age and biological age were 56.07 (12.79) years and 66.94 (25.88), respectively. The median of dialysis vintage was 4.3 years. After adjusting for the confounders, linear regression models showed patients with abnormal calcium, phosphorus, and iPTH control and on hemodialysis for less than 4.3 years (B = 0.211, p = .002) or on hemodialysis for 4.3 years or more (B = 0.302, p < .001), patients with normal calcium, phosphorus, and iPTH control and on hemodialysis for 4.3 years or more (B = 0.087, p = .013) had a higher biological age. Conclusion Our findings support the hypothesis that long-term hemodialysis and abnormal calcium, phosphorus, and iPTH control may accelerate aging in the hemodialysis population. Further studies are warrant to verify the significance of maintaining normal calcium-phosphorus metabolism in aging.
Dioxin Registry report of the Dow Chemical Company, Midland, Michigan

The report included a description and history of the processes, personnel, and records systems found during an evaluation of the operations at the Dow Chemical Company (SIC-2865, SIC-2869), Midland, Michigan. From 1935 to 1983, the company produced several chemicals including, 2,4,5-trichlorophenol (2,4,5-TCP), several derivatives of 2,4,5-TCP, pentachlorophenol (PCP), and several derivatives of PCP. The company records for general personnel, medical, workers' compensation, industrial hygiene and analytical dioxin data provide an excellent base from which work histories can be constructed and potential exposures to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (1746016) (TCDD) and hexachlorodibenzo-p-dioxins can be estimated. Area and personal air samples showed that workers involved in the production of these chemicals were exposed to the raw materials, intermediates, products, and more than likely waste materials. Surface wipe samples indicated the potential for skin exposure as well. Workers who worked in one or more of the processes with potential exposures were considered suitable for inclusion in the Dioxin Registry.
Obesity alters immunopathology in cancers and inflammatory diseases

Obesity is characterized by chronic low‐grade inflammation and is strongly associated with multiple immunological diseases, including cancer and inflammatory diseases. Recent animal studies revealed that obesity‐induced immunological changes worsen immune‐driven diseases and cause resistance to immunotherapy. Here, we discuss the role of obesity in the immunopathology and treatment responses of cancers, respiratory and allergic diseases, and IL‐17‐mediated inflammatory diseases. We summarize the unique features of the inflammatory state of these diseases, which are orchestrated by obesity. In particular, obesity alters the immune landscape in cancers with a reprogrammed metabolic profile of tumor‐infiltrating immune cells. Obesity exacerbates airway inflammation by dysregulating multiple immune‐cell subsets. Obesity also dysregulates Th17, IL‐17‐producing mucosal‐associated invariant T (MAIT), and γδ T cells, which contribute to IL‐17‐mediated inflammatory response in multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and rheumatoid arthritis. By identifying the effects of obesity on immunological diseases, new strategies could be devised to target immune dysregulation caused by obesity.
Efisiensi Relatif Usahatani Bawang Merah di Kabupaten Bantul dengan Pendekatan Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA)

Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui tingkat efisiensi teknis usahatani bawang merah di Kabupaten Bantul dan faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi. Metode penelitian menggunakan analisis DEA ( Data Envelopment Analysis ) dengan asumsi output oriented digunakan untuk mengukur skor efisiensi dari masing-masing usahatani yang diamati. Selanjutnya menggunakan analisis regresi Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) untuk menganalisis faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi tingkat efisiensi teknis usahatani bawang merah di Kabupaten Bantul. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa sebagian besar usahatani bawang merah di Kabupaten Bantul masuk dalam kategori inefisien. Berdasarkan perhitungan DEA-CRS, sebanyak 11 (18,33%) usahatani bawang merah telah efisien, sedangkan dengan perhitungan DEA VRS sebanyak 18 (30%) usahatani bawang merah telah efisien. Luas lahan, umur petani, pendidikan, dan pengalaman usahatani memiliki pengaruh dan signifikan terhadap tingkat efisiensi teknis Kata Kunci : Efisiensi Relatif, DEA
Morphometry and topography of the coronary ostia in the dog

Abstract Introduction The purpose of this study was to perform a morphometric examination of the coronary ostia, including their location in the area of the aortic sinuses, and to describe variations in ostia structure in the domestic dog. Material and Methods The study was conducted on the hearts of 91 pedigree dogs of both sexes, aged 1 to 18 years (median 9 years), with a body weight from 1.2 to 65 kg (median 20.7 kg). Morphometric examinations of the coronary ostia were performed in the studied individuals, and the location of the structures in relation to the intercommissural lines was determined. Results Three types of location of the coronary ostia were distinguished, i.e. below the intercommissural line (type I), on the intercommissural line (type II), and above the intercommissural line (type III). In the studied dogs, the most common location of the ostia was type I – found in the left coronary artery of 74/91 dogs (81%) and in the right coronary artery of 42/91 dogs (46%). Morphological variations were shown in 36/91 dogs (40%) in the structure of the coronary ostia, including the presence of accessory ostia. The most common variation was the presence of an accessory ostium near the ostium of the right coronary artery, which was found in 28/91 dogs (31%). Conclusion The results may be useful in developing standards for procedures to replace the whole or part of the aortic valve and repair the coronary artery.
Benchmarks for Pirá 2.0, a Reading Comprehension Dataset about the Ocean, the Brazilian Coast, and Climate Change

Pirá is a reading comprehension dataset focused on the ocean, the Brazilian coast, and climate change, built from a collection of scientific abstracts and reports on these topics. This dataset represents a versatile language resource, particularly useful for testing the ability of current machine learning models to acquire expert scientific knowledge. Despite its potential, a detailed set of baselines has not yet been developed for Pirá. By creating these baselines, researchers can more easily utilize Pirá as a resource for testing machine learning models across a wide range of question answering tasks. In this paper, we define six benchmarks over the Pirá dataset, covering closed generative question answering, machine reading comprehension, information retrieval, open question answering, answer triggering, and multiple choice question answering. As part of this effort, we have also produced a curated version of the original dataset, where we fixed a number of grammar issues, repetitions, and other shortcomings. Furthermore, the dataset has been extended in several new directions, so as to face the aforementioned benchmarks: translation of supporting texts from English into Portuguese, classification labels for answerability, automatic paraphrases of questions and answers, and multiple choice candidates. The results described in this paper provide several points of reference for researchers interested in exploring the challenges provided by the Pirá dataset.
Autoreactive B cells in rheumatoid arthritis include mainly activated CXCR3+ memory B cells and plasmablasts

Many autoimmune diseases (AIDs) are characterized by the persistence of autoreactive B cell responses, which have been directly implicated in disease pathogenesis. How and why these cells are generated or how they are maintained for years is largely unknown. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is among the most common AIDs and is characterized by autoantibodies recognizing proteins with posttranslational modifications (PTMs). This PTM-directed autoreactive B cell compartment is ill defined. Here, we visualized the B cell response against the three main types of PTM antigens implicated in RA by spectral flow cytometry. Our results showed extensive cross-reactivity of PTM-directed B cells against all three PTM antigens (citrulline, homocitrulline, and acetyllysine). Unsupervised clustering revealed several distinct memory B cell (mBC) populations. PTM-directed cells clustered with the most recently activated class-switched mBC phenotype, with high CD80, low CD24, and low CD21 expression. Notably, patients also harbored large fractions of PTM-directed plasmablasts (PBs). Both PTM-directed mBCs and PBs showed high expression of CXCR3, a receptor for chemokines present in abundance in arthritic joints. Together, our data provide detailed insight into the biology of B cell autoreactivity and its remarkable, seemingly exhaustless persistence in a prominent human AID.
Sample size optimization for clinical trials using graphical approaches for multiplicity adjustment

Graphical approach provides a useful framework for multiplicity adjustment in clinical trials with multiple endpoints. When designing a graphical approach, initial weight and transition probability for the endpoints are often assigned based on clinical importance. For example, practitioners may prefer putting more weights on some primary endpoints. The clinical preference can be formulated as a constrain in the sample size optimization problem. However, there has been a lack of theoretical guidance on how to specify initial weight and transition probability in a graphical approach to meet the clinical preference but at the same time to minimize the sample size needed for a power requirement. To fill this gap, we propose statistical methods to optimize sample size over initial weight and transition probability in a graphical approach under a common setting, which is to use marginal power for each endpoint in a trial design. Importantly, we prove that some of the commonly used graphical approaches such as putting all initial weights on one endpoint are suboptimal. Our methods are flexible, which can be used for both single‐arm trials and randomized controlled trials with either continuous or binary or mixed types of endpoints. Additionally, we prove the existence of optimal solution where all marginal powers are placed exactly at the prespecified values, assuming continuity. Two hypothetical clinical trial designs are presented to illustrate the application of our methods under different scenarios. Results are first presented for a design with two endpoints and are further generalized to three or more endpoints. Our findings are helpful to guide the design of a graphical approach and the sample size calculation in clinical trials.
The effects of physical exercise on axial spondyloarthritis - a systematic review.

AIM To collect and summarize the available scientific evidence that evaluates the effects of physical exercise interventions on axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). METHODS A systematic review was conducted in accordance to the guidance of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) to collect randomized controlled trials on the PubMed, Embase and Web of Science Core Collection databases. The search strategy included terms regarding physical exercise interventions targeted to axSpA participants and all of its variants in multiple combinations adapted to each one of the databases regarding its own special requirements. Several outcomes were defined: Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), Bath ankylosing spondylitis functional index (BASFI), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index (BASMI), ASDAS (Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score), C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), the 36-item short form health survey (SF-36) and the Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life questionnaire (ASQoL). Two independent researchers screened the titles and abstracts followed by full-text analysis when suitable, using EndnoteTM online. Selected articles, according to exclusion/inclusion criteria defined, were submitted to data extraction and bias assessment was performed for each study's outcomes using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials. RESULTS A total of 2063 articles were identified through the electronic databases search. After removal of duplicates, 1435 were eligible for screening, of which 45 articles went through full text evaluation. Only 24 articles met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Physical exercise contributes for a statistically significant improvement of BASDAI in 13 studies, BASFI in 10, BASMI in 6, ASDAS in 3, CRP in 2, ESR in 1, SF-36 in 2 and ASQoL in 3.No major adverse effects were reported and an overall benefit was noted with the implementation of physical exercise as a treatment modality for axSpA. CONCLUSION Physical exercise seems to be an effective non-pharmacological therapy for axSpA, with positive effects in disease activity, physical function, and quality of life.
Animal and their products used for treatment and prevention of disease practiced by traditional healers in Jimma Arjo district, East Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia

Abstract Background Ethiopia is one of the countries with richest fauna used for medicinal purpose. The Jimma Arjo community has knowledge and practice of utilizing this medicinal animal for treatment of human and animal ailments. Objective The objective of this research is to assess animals and their products used for treatment of human and animal ailment Methods A cross‐sectional ethnozoological survey was conducted using a semi structured questionnaire among purposively selected traditional healers resided in Jimma Arjo district. The data collected was entered in Microsoft excel spread sheet and analysed using SPSS statistical software. Fidelity level (FL), use value and informant consensus factor was determined. Results A total of 33 animal species was found to be used for treating 40 human ailments and different livestock disease confirmed by 36 informants of different ages, sexes and educational backgrounds. The majority of animals (63.63%) were mammals followed by birds (15.15%). Most of the respondents were male, married and aged 55 years and above. Most of the healers learn ethnozoological practice from the father (36.11%) followed by mother (19.44%). The traditional practice is accepted by (72.22%) of the community where 61.11% of the healers are not willing to transfer their knowledge to other. For most of the healers, the reason to practice traditional healing was for treating one's own family or animals (41.67%). The FL was found 100% for honey from Apis mellifera and Trigona spp. for asthma, Cynopterus sphinx for viral skin disease and Crocuta crocuta for bad sprit treatment. In this study, honey from A. mellifera, Hystrix cristata and Sus scrofa domesticus were reported to cure different ailments. Conclusion This study indicated wide use of medicinal animals and their products which could be used as an alternative and complementary medicine or a basis for in developing new drugs because the existing drugs especially antimicrobials are under threat due to the development of resistance by microbes.
Compaction homogène et compaction localisée des roches poreuses. Etude expérimentale et théorique

Pour de nombreux problemes de sismo-tectonique et d'ingenierie de reservoir, la capacite a prevoir l'ampleur de la deformation inelastique et les ruptures repose sur une comprehension de la phenomenologie et de la micromecanique de la dilatance et de la compaction dans les roches. Pour les roches poreuses, la compaction inelastique peut etre diffuse ou localisee dans la roche. La compaction d'une roche sous une pression isotrope est le resultat de la destruction du reseau poreux. Pour quantifier l'evolution de l'endommagement pendant la compaction, nous utilisons un modele de milieu effectif. Nous montrons ainsi comment le broyage des grains transforme la roche en un milieu granulaire, ou, meme a sec, le rapport Vp/Vs croit, ce qui n'avait jamais ete observe. Lorsque la roche est soumise a champ de contrainte deviatorique, la compaction inelastique est localisee. Sous certaines pressions moyennes effectives, la deformation inelastique se developpe sous forme de bandes de compaction. Pour comprendre la formation des bandes de compaction, nous avons enregistre, puis re-localise les emissions acoustiques au cours de plusieurs experiences.
Alignment in the registration, selection, procurement and reimbursement of essential medicines for childhood cancers in South Africa

Introduction The effectiveness of a health system in providing access to medicines is in part determined by the alignment of several core pharmaceutical processes. For South Africa’s public health sector, these include the registration of medicines, selection and subsequent procurement through national tenders. Registration, selection and reimbursement are key processes in the private sector. This study assessed the alignment of forementioned processes for essential paediatric oncology medicines in South Africa. Methods A selection of priority chemotherapeutics, antiemetics and analgesics in the treatment of five prevalent childhood cancers in South Africa was compared with those listed in 1) the WHO Essential Medicines List for Children (WHO EMLc) 2021, 2) the registered health products database of South Africa, 3) the relevant South African National Essential Medicines Lists (NEML), 4) bid packs and awarded tenders for oncology medicines for 2020 and 2022 and 5) oncology formularies from the leading Independent Clinical Oncology Network (ICON) and two private sector medical aid schemes. Consistency between these sources was assessed descriptively. Results There was full alignment for 25 priority chemotherapeutics for children between the NEML, the products registered in South Africa and those included on tender. Due to unsuccessful procurement, access to seven chemotherapeutics was potentially constrained. For antiemetics and analgesics, eight of nine active ingredients included on the WHO EMLc were also registered in South Africa and on its NEML. An exploratory assessment of private sector formularies showed many gaps in ICON’s formulary and two medical scheme formularies (listing 33% and 24% of the chemotherapeutics, respectively). Conclusion Despite good alignment in public sector pharmaceutical processes, access constraints to essential chemotherapeutics for children may stem from unsuccessful tenders. Private sector formularies show major gaps; however, it is unclear how this translates to access in clinical practice.
Should we be screening for COPD? – looking through the lens of lung cancer screening

ABSTRACT Introduction In May 2022, the US Preventive Services Task Force published their recommendation against screening for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in asymptomatic adults. However, we argue the routine use of spirometry in both asymptomatic and symptomatic high-risk smokers has utility. Areas covered We provide published and unpublished observations from a secondary analyses of the American College of Radiology Imaging Network (ACRIN), arm of the National Lung Screening Trial, including 18,463 high-risk current or former smokers who underwent pre-bronchodilator spirometry at baseline. According to history alone, 20% reported a prior diagnosis of ‘COPD,’ although only 11% (about one half), actually had airflow limitation (Diagnosed COPD) and 9% had Global Initiative for Obstructive Pulmonary Disease GOLD 0 Pre-COPD. Of the remaining 80% of ‘asymptomatic’ screening participants, 23% had airflow limitation (Screen-detected COPD) and 13% had preserved ratio impaired spirometry (PRISm). This means 45% of this high-risk cohort were reclassified by spirometry, and together with comorbid disease, identified subgroups where lung cancer screening efficacy could be optimized by between 2–6 fold. Expert opinion Our preliminary findings suggest lung cancer screening outcomes vary according to ‘new’ COPD-related spirometric-defined subgroups and that screening spirometry, together with comorbid disease, identifies those for whom lung cancer screening is mostly beneficial or potentially harmful.
Effect of the fermented total mixed ration on in-vitro gas production and digestibility in cattle

In this study, Experiments were conducted to evaluate the fermented total mixed ration (FTMR) and total mixed ration (TMR) by rumen in in vitro fermentation technique and their effects on methane (CH4) emission and digestibility measurement. Ruminal samples were collected from ruminal digesta and grind TMR feed used as a substrate. There were four diets, one was without molasses-yeast mixture (control), another was in addition of molasses at 0.1% inclusion rate (T1) and the other two were in addition of molasses-yeast mixture at 0.1% (T2) and 0.3% (T3) inclusion rate. The present study indicated that there was significant (p
Disassembly of bundled F-actin and cellular remodeling via an interplay of Mical, cofilin, and F-actin crosslinkers

Significance Organism form and behavior is governed by the basic building blocks of cellular structure, the actin cytoskeleton. Namely, actin proteins assemble into polymers (F-actin)—which are often transformed into complex bundled F-actin structures to enhance cellular stability. Yet, while we have an in-depth understanding of how actin polymerizes and is organized into bundled F-actin networks, how these stable bundles are rapidly pruned/disassembled to trigger changes to cellular form and function is less clear. Here, we uncover specific mechanisms of rapid disassembly of bundled F-actin to drive cellular shape and behavioral changes. Our observations also reveal a fine-tuned coordination between the building and breaking down of bundled F-actin networks with ramifications for governing normal to disease-state transitions.