The American journal of medicine
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Reduced lung function has been linked to cardiovascular disease, but population-based evidence on the relationship between lung function decline and coronary artery calcium (CAC) progression is rare. ⋯ A faster decline in FVC or FEV1 during young adulthood is independently associated with an increased risk of CAC progression in midlife. Maintaining optimal lung function during young adulthood may improve future cardiovascular health.
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Imported fire ants aggressively sting humans, leading to a variety of local and systemic effects. Fire ants display a behavioral adaptation to survive flooding, called "rafting," bringing humans into even more contact with fire ants. ⋯ These results confirm that fire ant rafts formed during flooding present a potential hazard to persons walking, wading, or boating in those areas. We suggest that these rafts are an under-appreciated health hazard. It is reasonable to assume that people in flooded areas occasionally contact these floating rafts and are stung multiple times. We provide preliminary prevention/protection recommendations for health professionals, to be shared with their patients and the general public.