Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Pediatric Paradox: Heterogeneity in the Birth Cohort

Comparisons of birth-weight-specific infant mortality indicate that low-birth-weight African American infants have lower mortality than low-birth-weight European American infants despite higher infant mortality overall—the "pediatric paradox. " One explanation is heterogeneity in birth weight. Analyses of African American and European American births suggest that birth cohorts consist of two heterogeneous subpopulations. One appears to account for normal births, whereas the other may consist of compromised births. Estimates of infant mortality indicate that the compromised subpopulation has higher overall mortality but lower birth-weight-specific mortality. We attribute lower birth-weight-specific infant mortality in the compromised subpopulation to higher rates of fetal loss. Compared to European American birth cohorts, African American birth cohorts have (1) higher birth-weight-specific mortality in the normal subpopulation, (2) larger compromised subpopulations, and (3) lower birth-weight-specific mortality in the compromised subpopulation. Consequently, the pediatric paradox is attributable to greater rates of compromised pregnancies and higher fetal losses among African Americans.
Low-Dose Hyper-radiosensitivity: A Consequence of Ineffective Cell Cycle Arrest of Radiation-Damaged G2-Phase Cells

Abstract Marples, B. , Wouters, B. G. , Collis, S. J., Chalmers, A. J. and Joiner, M. C. Low-Dose Hyper-radiosensitivity: A Consequence of Ineffective Cell Cycle Arrest of Radiation-Damaged G2-Phase Cells. Radiat. Res. 161, 247–255 (2004). This review highlights the phenomenon of low-dose hyper- radiosensitivity (HRS), an effect in which cells die from excessive sensitivity to small single doses of ionizing radiation but become more resistant (per unit dose) to larger single doses. Established and new data pertaining to HRS are discussed with respect to its possible underlying molecular mechanisms. To explain HRS, a three-component model is proposed that consists of damage recognition, signal transduction and damage repair. The foundation of the model is a rapidly occurring dose-dependent pre-mitotic cell cycle checkpoint that is specific to cells irradiated in the G2phase. This checkpoint exhibits a dose expression profile that is identical to the cell survival pattern that characterizes HRS and is probably the key control element of low-dose radiosensitivity. This premise is strengthened by the recent observation coupling low- dose radiosensitivity of G2-phase cells directly to HRS. The putative role of known damage response factors such as ATM, PARP, H2AX, 53BP1 and HDAC4 is also included within the framework of the HRS model.
Idiopathic dystonia musculorum deformans

FORME FRUSTE is a term variously applied to diseases that display [l] short-lived and generally mild manifestations, [2] absent or incompletely developed clinical signs and symptoms deemed characteristic of the condition, or [3] arrest and even remission in the case of notoriously progressive diseases. Obviously, one can speak of formes frustes only in reference to well delineated entities. The first definition is often applied to mild forms of infectious diseases. Here, the alternative term, “abortive form,” is probably more pertinent. In hereditary conditions, the second difinition is considered to be the equivalent of low or variable expressivity of the pathogenic genes. Gunther and Penrosel have proposed an interesting hypothesis for explanation of such variability of expressivity which might be applicable to the cases of the present study. The third definition applies specifically to the arrested forms of those heredodegenerative diseases in which progression is one of the main diagnostic hallmarks. Before the existence of formes frustes of dystonia musculorum deformans can be discussed, consideration should be given to whether this condition represents a distinct clinical entity. Wimmer2 in his report to the Tenth Annual International Neurologic Reunion (1929) argued eloquently against such an assumption. His argument was based chiefly on the consideration that many different pathologic factors such as vascular, traumatic, inflammatory, degenerative, and neoplastic lesions might lead to the syndrome of dystonia. Since then, observation of nonsecondary forms of dystonia permitted the delineation of idiopathic dystonia musculorum deformans as a disease entity.3 In a previous report,* the authors presented evidence for dominant inheritance with variable expressivity and complete penetrance of
Long term follow up of spinal trabecular bone mineral density in women with non-steroid treated rheumatoid arthritis.

years (range 2-28). Twenty two were still taking DMARDs but five were off all treatment apart from non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Four patients had started low dose prednisolone (<6 mg/day). Three women had been treated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for up to 12 months immediately preceeding repeat measurement, two were taking thyroxine. Eleven patients smoked an average of 15 cigarettes a day (range 10-30). The degree of functional impairment was assessed according to the Steinbroker classification;2 four patients were in class I, 15 in class II and eight in class III. Spinal trabecular BMD in the middle of the anterior part of the first three lumbar vertebrae was measured with an in vivo precision of 2-8%. Lateral radiographs of the lower spine were obtained and examined for fractures. Comparisons between the measurements
Exercise-induced anaphylaxis: an update

Summary Exercise-induced anaphylaxis (EIAn) is a rare and potentially fatal syndrome associated with exercise. It is the most serious and potentially life-threatening hypersensitivity phenomenon for athletes of all sports. Food-dependent EIAn (FDEIAn) shares the same symptoms, but ingestion of foods 2–3 h prior to exercise is crucial for its presentation. Attacks may seldom occur also if food ingestion is made 2–3 hours after exercise. Concomitant use of drugs, particularly aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can worsen the clinical presentation. Clinical manifestations cover a wide range of symptoms, from pruritus to dyspnoea to vascular collapse. Differential diagnoses must be investigated when symptoms are unusual. Several pathogenetic theories have been formulated but the rarity of EIAn has not facilitated the efforts of scientists to find pathophysiological and immunological mechanisms that may account for these conditions. Diagnosis is mainly clinical and can be difficult. Validated protocols including skin prick testing together with food–exercise challenges, laboratory investigations looking for specific immunoglobulin E or through allergy molecular diagnostics are often required. Preventative measures are of fundamental importance, in particular regarding education of patients, family/carers, trainers and teammates. Use of adrenaline autoinjectors is also fundamental and their correct use must be taught to patients, doctors and nurses. Pharmacological preventative measures are not supported by sufficiently powered studies. Further research will be needed to investigate deeper the complexities of EIAn.
Effect of referral strategies on access to cardiac rehabilitation among women

Background Despite its proven benefits and need, women's access to cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is suboptimal. Referral strategies, such as systematic referral, have been advocated to improve access to CR. This study examined sex differences in CR referral and enrollment by referral strategies; and the impact of referral strategies for referral and enrollment concordance among women. Design Prospective cohort study. Methods This prospective study included 2635 coronary artery disease inpatients from 11 Ontario hospitals that utilized one of four referral strategies. Participants completed a sociodemographic survey, and clinical data were extracted from charts. One year later, 1809 participants (452 (25%) women) completed a mailed survey that assessed CR utilization. Referral strategies were compared among women using generalized estimating equations to control for the effect of hospital. Results Overall, significantly more men than women were referred (67.2% and 57.8% respectively, p < 0.001), and enrolled in CR (58.6% and 49.3% respectively, p = 0.001). Of the retained women, combined systematic and liaison-facilitated referral resulted in significantly greater CR referral (OR 10.3, 95% CI 4.11–25.58) and enrollment (OR 6.6, 95% CI 4.34–9.92) among women when compared with usual referral. Conversely, concordance between referral and enrollment was greatest following usual referral (K = 0.85), and decreased with referral intensity. Conclusions While a lower proportion of referred patients enroll, systematic and liaison-facilitated inpatient referral strategies result in the greatest CR enrolment rates among women. Such strategies have the potential to improve access among women, and reduce ‘cherry picking’ of patients for referral.
Improving Metabolic Health Through Precision Dietetics in Mice

Barrington et al. examined the effect of four human diets (American, Mediterranean, Japanese, and Maasai/ketogenic) on metabolic health across four mouse. The incidence of diet-induced metabolic disease has soared over the last half-century, despite national efforts to improve health through universal dietary recommendations. Studies comparing dietary patterns of populations with health outcomes have historically provided the basis for healthy diet recommendations. However, evidence that population-level diet responses are reliable indicators of responses across individuals is lacking. This study investigated how genetic differences influence health responses to several popular diets in mice, which are similar to humans in genetic composition and the propensity to develop metabolic disease, but enable precise genetic and environmental control. We designed four human-comparable mouse diets that are representative of those eaten by historical human populations. Across four genetically distinct inbred mouse strains, we compared the American diet’s impact on metabolic health to three alternative diets (Mediterranean, Japanese, and Maasai/ketogenic). Furthermore, we investigated metabolomic and epigenetic alterations associated with diet response. Health effects of the diets were highly dependent on genetic background, demonstrating that individualized diet strategies improve health outcomes in mice. If similar genetic-dependent diet responses exist in humans, then a personalized, or “precision dietetics,” approach to dietary recommendations may yield better health outcomes than the traditional one-size-fits-all approach.
Breast Density and Parenchymal Patterns as Markers of Breast Cancer Risk: A Meta-analysis

Mammographic features are associated with breast cancer risk, but estimates of the strength of the association vary markedly between studies, and it is uncertain whether the association is modified by other risk factors. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of publications on mammographic patterns in relation to breast cancer risk. Random effects models were used to combine study-specific relative risks. Aggregate data for >14,000 cases and 226,000 noncases from 42 studies were included. Associations were consistent in studies conducted in the general population but were highly heterogeneous in symptomatic populations. They were much stronger for percentage density than for Wolfe grade or Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System classification and were 20% to 30% stronger in studies of incident than of prevalent cancer. No differences were observed by age/menopausal status at mammography or by ethnicity. For percentage density measured using prediagnostic mammograms, combined relative risks of incident breast cancer in the general population were 1.79 (95% confidence interval, 1.48-2.16), 2.11 (1.70-2.63), 2.92 (2.49-3.42), and 4.64 (3.64-5.91) for categories 5% to 24%, 25% to 49%, 50% to 74%, and ≥75% relative to <5%. This association remained strong after excluding cancers diagnosed in the first-year postmammography. This review explains some of the heterogeneity in associations of breast density with breast cancer risk and shows that, in well-conducted studies, this is one of the strongest risk factors for breast cancer. It also refutes the suggestion that the association is an artifact of masking bias or that it is only present in a restricted age range. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(6):1159–69)
Risk Factors for Comorbidity in ADHD and GTS: Looking Beyond a Single-Deficit Model

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) are commonly co-occurring neurodevelopmental conditions. This article explores the mechanism of co-occurrence by describing shared biogenetic, neural, and cognitive risk factors between the two disorders. Neuroanatomical risk factors underlie atypical neuropsychological profiles of motor control and inhibition. Features of inhibition (impulsivity in ADHD and tics in GTS) may be a disadvantage in ADHD but may present as a protective factor in GTS. The application of cognitive manifestations for assessment and behavioral management in GTS is considered.
CRUMBS: A cyber security framework browser

In the last years, several standards and frameworks have been developed to help organizations to increase the security of their Information Technology (IT) systems. In order to deal with the continuous evolution of the cyberattacks complexity, such solutions have to cope with an overwhelming set of concepts, and are perceived as complex and hard to implement. This paper presents a visual analytics solution targeted at dealing with the Italian Adaptation of the Cyber Security Framework (IACSF), derived by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) proposal, adaptation that, in its full complexity, presents the security managers with hundreds of scattered concepts, like functions, categories, subcategories, priorities, maturity levels, current and target profiles, and controls, making its adoption a complex activity. The system has been designed together with the security experts of one of the largest Italian public organization and has the goal of providing a continuous overview of the adoption process, providing a prioritizing view that helps in effectively planning the required activities. A prototype is available at: http://awareserver.dis. uniroma1.it:11768/crumbs/
Five‐year follow‐up of substantia nigra echogenicity in idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder

Hyperechogenicity of the substantia nigra visualized by transcranial sonography occurs in most Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. Idiopathic rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (IRBD) subjects eventually develop PD and other synucleinopathies. This study was undertaken to evaluate whether in IRBD, transcranial sonography identifies subjects who convert to PD and other synucleinopathies, and whether substantia nigra echogenic size changes with time. It was a prospective study in which 55 IRBD patients underwent transcranial sonography at baseline and were invited to follow‐up after 5 years. Patients were assessed by the same experienced sonographer who was blinded to clinical data and baseline transcranial sonography results, and used the same equipment and adjustments. Twenty‐one (38.2%) subjects were diagnosed with a synucleinopathy (PD in 11, dementia with Lewy bodies in nine, and multiple system atrophy in one). Sensitivity of baseline substantia nigra hyperechogenicity for the development of a synucleinopathy was 42.1%, specificity 67.7%, positive predictive value 44.4%, negative predictive value 65.6%, and relative risk 1.29. No differences were detected between the first and second examination in mean size of the substantia nigra (0.20 ± 0.09 cm2 vs. 0.19 ± 0.07 cm2; P = 0.777) and in percentage of patients with substantia nigra hyperechogenicity (33.3% vs. 42.8%, P = 0.125). Transcranial sonography of the substantia nigra alone is not a useful tool to identify IRBD subjects at risk for the development of PD or a synucleinopathy after 5 years of follow‐up. In IRBD, transcranial sonography cannot be used to monitor the degenerative process in the substantia nigra, because echogenicity size remains stable over time. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
A test of alternative models for increased tissue nitrogen isotope ratios during fasting in hibernating arctic ground squirrels

SUMMARY We describe two models explaining the increase in tissue nitrogen isotope ratios (δ15N) that occurs during fasting in animals. The catabolic model posits that protein breakdown selectively removes the lighter isotope of nitrogen (14N) from catabolized tissues, causing an increase in the proportion of heavy nitrogen isotope (15N). The anabolic model posits that protein synthesis during fasting results in elevated δ15N values, as the unreplaced loss of 14N to urea results in a higher proportion of 15N in plasma amino acids used for protein synthesis. We effected a range of lean mass loss in arctic ground squirrels (Urocitellus parryii) fasting during hibernation and then collected organ and muscle tissues for analysis of δ15N values. The catabolic model predicts increased δ15N values in both liver and muscle, as these tissues undergo significant catabolism during hibernation. The anabolic model predicts no change in muscle, but an increase in δ15N values in liver, which has high levels of protein synthesis during euthermic phases of hibernation. We found a significant increase in liver δ15N values and no change in muscle δ15N values with lean mass loss, which supports the anabolic model. Heart, small intestine and brown adipose tissue also showed an increase in δ15N values, indicating protein synthesis in these organ tissues during hibernation. Urine was 3.8% lighter than plasma, and both urine and plasma increased in δ15N values with lean mass loss. This study helps clarify the mechanisms causing δ15N change during nutritional stress, thus increasing its utility for physiological research and reconciling previously contradictory results.
FAMILIAL RISK FOR LUNG CANCER BY HISTOLOGY AND AGE OF ONSET: EVIDENCE FOR RECESSIVE INHERITANCE

The authors used the Swedish Family-Cancer Database to search for evidence for a genetic predisposition in lung cancer. Familial risks in offspring were increased for all lung cancer to 1.77 when a parent was affected with any lung cancers; the comparable risk among siblings was 2.15. At young age, risks between siblings were higher than those between offspring and parents for all histological types of lung cancer. The present data suggest that 1.7% of lung cancers up to age 68 years are heritable and probably due to a high-penetrant recessive gene or genes that predispose to tobacco carcinogens.
Compliance with contraceptive regimens.

Current level of knowledge about compliance with contraceptive regimens is discussed. Contraceptive regimens are unique when compared with other medical therapy because 1) of their prophylactic nature rather than curative 2) of a feeling of ambivalence relating to pregnancy 3) a choice must be made among methods 4) choice is affected by sexual partners and social mores and 5) a continued motivation is essential (which may cover 10 or more years). Measuring contraceptive compliance is difficult since one must rely on client reporting. 2 methods of indirect measurement are extrapolation from data on breakthrough bleeding during use of oral contraceptives and extrapolation and estimation of the probability of conception form a single unprotected coitus. The clients purpose in using a contraceptive her educational status and her psychological orientation to sex and contraception are factors which influence compliance. Means of administration timing of contraceptive regimen (threat to spontainity) side effects and the type of instruction and support by the physician are method-related factors which affect compliance. It was concluded that more knowledge of noncompliance would make possible more realistic advances in the development of a drug or device that would allow some margin for irregularity of use.
Needs of Relatives and Helpfulness of Support Groups in Severe Head Injury

&NA; The purpose of this study was to assess the perceived needs of relatives living with head‐injured individuals and the helpfulness of family support groups in meeting these needs. Questionnaires were distributed at five separate support meetings. The respondents were mostly mothers of head‐injured males. Situational influences perceived as being most stressful to family members were behavior changes, decreased memory, and decision‐making problems of the head‐injured person. Most of the mothers reported that their largest concern was what would happen to their injured sons if something happened to them. Educational needs of the subjects were identified as information on the effects of head injuries, community resources and financial assistance, and honest answers to questions. Psychological needs expressed were to feel that there was hope, to know what the future held, to have emotional support, and to talk about feelings. Support groups were helpful in meeting these needs. Areas for future development of family support groups were identified.
A Practical Tool for Mass-Customising Configurable Products

Configurable products are an important way to achieve mass-customisation to satisfy individual customer requirements. We describe a novel configurator prototype that supports tailoring, i.e. configuring, such a product. It contains a semi-visual modelling tool based on a high-level objectand product structure-oriented modelling language with a clear formal semantics. The main functionality is delivered by a configuration support tool aimed at e-commerce. This tool provides intelligent support for configuring a product by applying a state-of-the-art inference engine for the form of logic programs on which the formal semantics is based. The user interface of the tool is generated almost automatically. We have modelled four real products from two domains and tested the efficiency of the inference engine on them. For this, we use a modelling-language-independent method for systematic testing. For these products, the modelling language is suitable and the inference engine efficient enough for practical use.
Metabolism of methyl methacrylate: evidence for metabolism by the valine pathway of catabolism in rat and in man.

1. Evidence to support the suggestion that methyl methacrylate is metabolized by the normal pathway of valine catabolism has been obtained by the administration of methyl [Me-14C]methacrylate to rats. 2. Of the administered dose, 80% was respired as 14CO2 as predicted, and methylmalonic acid, specifically labelled with 14C in a manner consistent with the proposed pathway of metabolism, was excreted (0.22%) dose). 3. Following administration of sodium [Me-2H3]methacrylate to a human subject, [Me-2H3]methylmalonic acid was detected in the urine by g.l. c. -mass spectrometry.
The community structure of word association graphs

One of the defining characteristics of small-world networks is that their edge distribution is globally and locally inhomogeneous: nodes form dense groups inside the networks. These groups are called communities. In this paper we will use the hub percolation community detection method of Bota et al. to examine and compare the community structure of two word association graphs based on two dierent languages: English and Hungarian. The English network was created from the University of South Florida word association norms. The Hungarian network was constructed by Laszlo Kovacs using data collected from Internet users. We examine around which words are communities formed ‐ for example category names or collective nouns. We will also examine if these specific words and their associated groups are similar in the English and Hungarian networks.