Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Intralesional Bleomycin Injection Treatment for Vascular Birthmarks: A 5-Year Experience at a Single United Kingdom Unit

Background: The authors present their experience using an established chemotherapeutic agent as a scarless treatment for vascular birthmarks. One hundred sixty-four of more than 600 patients seen in the authors' center received intralesional bleomycin injection over 5 years. Methods: Patient demographics, clinical response, treatment, and complication details were recorded prospectively. Respiratory surveillance was provided by adult and pediatric pulmonologists. Eighty-one venous malformations, 39 hemangiomas, 26 lymphatic malformations, 10 mixed malformations, two arteriovenous malformations, two cystic hygromas, two capillary malformations, and two angiokeratomas underwent intralesional bleomycin injection. Results: The authors observed that 45.7 percent of patients completed treatment in a mean of 3.8 sessions and mean duration of 107 days. Complete resolution occurred in 56.0 percent, with a 93.3 percent overall response rate, and 82.7 percent of lesions demonstrated complete response or significant improvement. Three patients developed transient skin hyperpigmentation. One patient each developed skin ulceration, blistering, infection, swelling, headache, bruising, and rash. One patient required intubation following treatment of a panfacial and thoracic lymphatic malformation. A full recovery ensued. No patients developed pulmonary fibrosis. One venous malformation recurred. Conclusions: The authors' single-site multidisciplinary team has successfully treated complex and recurrent vascular anomalies with acceptable complication and recurrence profiles. These findings represent the authors' experience and provide a reference for the management of these challenging lesions.
Mobile Learning Adoption in Saudi Arabia

This paper investigates the use of mobile phones an d tablets for learning purposes among university stud ents in Saudi Arabia. For this purpose, an extended Technology Ac ceptance Model (TAM) is proposed to analyze the adoption of mobi le devices and smart phones by Saudi university students for acces sing course materials, searching the web for information relate d to their discipline, sharing knowledge, conducting assignmen ts tc. Keywords—Saudi Arabia, TAM, Mobile learning, e-learning, smart phones.
Adaptive Extended Kalman Filtering for SINS/GPS Integrated Navigation Systems

An improved Adaptive Extended Kalman filtering algorithm is proposed here to estimate the measurement noise on-line for the SINS/GPS integrated navigation systems. The measurement remnant chi-square method is used to automatically adjust the sliding window basing on the innovation sequence. The experiment result shows that this new approach could improve the accuracy of the integrated navigation system effectively when the measurement noise is unknown.
Hantavirus Transmission in the United States

The public health significance of New World hantaviruses (genus Hantavirus, family Bunya-viridae) was first recognized in 1993 when healthy young adults in the southwestern United States contracted a mysterious pulmonary illness and died. The ensuing investigation identified a novel hantavirus, Sin Nombre virus (SNV), as the cause of a new syndrome, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). A case-control study performed early in the outbreak showed that high density peridomestic rodent populations were a key risk factor for disease (1), a finding consistent with knowledge of Old World hantaviruses (including Puumala, Seoul, Hantaan, and Dobrava viruses), which can cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in humans who inhale aero-solized excreta from infected rodents (2). Thousands of episodes of HFRS occur in Eurasia each year, yet person-to-person transmission has never been reported. When person-to-person transmission of a hantavirus was suggested by the results of an HPS outbreak investigation in southern Argentina (3), we reviewed the epidemiology of HPS in the United States for evidence of nosocomial or secondary transmission. Since 1993, a U.S. HPS registry has been maintained that includes surveillance case reports, environmental and epidemiologic case investigations , patients' medical records, and laboratory databases. This registry was used to identify the clusters of hantaviral infections shown in the Figure. A cluster was defined as the association of a patient with confirmed HPS with one or more contacts who had both laboratory evidence of SNV infection and a history of a febrile illness within 8 weeks of the onset of symptoms. Presence of serum immunoglobulin M (IgM) or IgG reacting with SNV antigen or immuno-histochemical detection of SNV antigen in autopsy specimens was accepted as laboratory evidence of In 1996, investigation of a hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) outbreak in southern Argentina found evidence of person-to-person transmission of a hantavirus. The infection control ramifications of this finding led to this review of hantavirus epidemiology in the United States; the review suggests that Sin Nombre virus infection is rarely, if ever, transmitted from person to person and that existing guidelines for prevention of HPS remain appropriate for North America. SNV infection. Eight weeks was selected as a conservative estimate of the incubation period on the basis of HFRS occurrence among United Nations (U.N.) military personnel within 7 days of arrival in (and as long as 46 days after departure from) a hantavirus-endemic area (4). We identified five clusters (involving 12 patients) of hantaviral infections …
Is HbA1c <7% a Marker of Poor Performance in Individuals >65 Years Old?

In this issue of Diabetes Care , Pogach et al. (1) raise reasonable concepts of the dangers of hypoglycemia as a criterion for assessing glycemic control, but the authors suggest a performance measure pertaining to glycemic control of persons with diabetes with which we disagree. They propose an out-of-range measure of having either HbA1c 9.0%, “for patients aged ≥65 years with diabetes and significant comorbid conditions taking antihyperglycemic agents other than metformin alone. ” The presence of a “significant comorbid condition” was primarily driven by cardiovascular disease but also included persons with serum creatinine >1.7 mg/dL, cognitive impairment, diabetic retinopathy, major depression, and/or substance abuse. This out-of-range concept certainly merits discussion. Indeed, the notion has recently been put forward that HbA1c 9%, but 35.7% had HbA1c <7.0%; those deemed by Pogach et al. to be …
Anatomically Detailed and Large-Scale Simulations Studying Synapse Loss and Synchrony Using NeuroBox

The morphology of neurons and networks plays an important role in processing electrical and biochemical signals. Based on neuronal reconstructions, which are becoming abundantly available through databases such as NeuroMorpho.org, numerical simulations of Hodgkin-Huxley-type equations, coupled to biochemical models, can be performed in order to systematically investigate the influence of cellular morphology and the connectivity pattern in networks on the underlying function. Development in the area of synthetic neural network generation and morphology reconstruction from microscopy data has brought forth the software tool NeuGen. Coupling this morphology data (either from databases, synthetic, or reconstruction) to the simulation platform UG 4 (which harbors a neuroscientific portfolio) and VRL-Studio, has brought forth the extendible toolbox NeuroBox. NeuroBox allows users to perform numerical simulations on hybrid-dimensional morphology representations. The code basis is designed in a modular way, such that e.g., new channel or synapse types can be added to the library. Workflows can be specified through scripts or through the VRL-Studio graphical workflow representation. Third-party tools, such as ImageJ, can be added to NeuroBox workflows. In this paper, NeuroBox is used to study the electrical and biochemical effects of synapse loss vs. synchrony in neurons, to investigate large morphology data sets within detailed biophysical simulations, and used to demonstrate the capability of utilizing high-performance computing infrastructure for large scale network simulations. Using new synapse distribution methods and Finite Volume based numerical solvers for compartment-type models, our results demonstrate how an increase in synaptic synchronization can compensate synapse loss at the electrical and calcium level, and how detailed neuronal morphology can be integrated in large-scale network simulations.
Hidden object detection: security applications of terahertz technology

Recent events have led to dramatic changes to the methods employed in security screening. For example, following the failed shoe bombing, it is now common for shoes to be removed and X-rayed at airport checkpoints. There is therefore an increasing focus on new Recent events have led to dramatic changes to the methods employed in security screening. For example, following the failed shoe bombing, it is now common for shoes to be removed and X-rayed at airport checkpoints. There is therefore an increasing focus on new technologies that can be applied to security screening, either to simplify or speed up the checking process, or to provide additional functionality. Terahertz (THz) technology is a promising, emerging candidate. In previous publications we have shown how our THz pulsed imaging systems can be used to image threat items, and have demonstrated that explosive materials have characteristic THz spectra. We have also demonstrated that nonmetallic weaponry can be imaged when concealed beneath clothing. In this work we examine more closely the properties of barrier and potential confusion materials. We demonstrate that barrier materials have smooth spectra with relatively low attenuation. We further demonstrate that the terahertz spectra of several common chemicals and medicines are distinct from those of threat materials.
Setting evolutionary‐based conservation priorities for a phylogenetically data‐poor taxonomic group (Scleractinia)

Given the current extinction crisis coupled with the shortfall in funding, there is a pressing need to establish species conservation priorities. The prioritization of phylogenetic diversity and evolutionary distinctiveness is one approach; however, taking such an approach requires more phylogenetic data than are currently available for most taxa. Here, we investigate the effects of increased phylogenetic knowledge on the accuracy of evolutionary distinctiveness (ED) scores over time using scleractinian corals as a case study. ED scores were calculated from four molecular‐based phylogenies from 2008 to 2013, each one representing a chronological step of increased phylogenetic knowledge for scleractinian corals, finally resulting in a full species‐level phylogeny which is used here as the reference dataset. As expected, the most complete and up‐to‐date phylogenies performed well at predicting scores taken from a recent, full‐coverage species‐level phylogeny of scleractinian corals. Surprisingly, however, older phylogenies and scores derived from expert opinion also performed well. More unexpectedly, the expert opinion‐led scores, when used as a basis for imputing scores for missing species, achieved a close second in terms of prediction accuracy compared with the most recent and largest tree, which had nearly 10 times more taxonomic coverage. We recommend, once tested further, that ED score imputation be considered for assessing the conservation priorities for other poorly studied groups.
Parental history of depression or anxiety and the cortisol awakening response.

BACKGROUND It is unclear whether altered hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulation, which frequently accompanies depression and anxiety disorders, represents a trait rather than a state factor. AIMS To examine whether HPA axis dysregulation represents a biological vulnerability for these disorders, we compared cortisol levels in unaffected people with and without a parental history of depressive or anxiety disorders. We additionally examined whether possible HPA axis dysregulations resemble those observed in participants with depression or anxiety disorders. METHOD Data were from the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety. Within the participants without a lifetime diagnoses of depression or anxiety disorders, three groups were distinguished: 180 people without parental history, 114 with self-reported parental history and 74 with CIDI-diagnosed parental history. These groups were additionally compared with people with major depressive disorder or panic disorder with agoraphobia (n = 1262). Salivary cortisol samples were obtained upon awakening, and 30, 45 and 60 min later. RESULTS As compared with unaffected participants without parental history, unaffected individuals with diagnosed parental history of depression or anxiety showed a significantly higher cortisol awakening curve (effect size (d) = 0.50), which was similar to that observed in the participants with depression or anxiety disorders. Unaffected people with self-reported parental history did not differ in awakening cortisol levels from unaffected people without parental history. CONCLUSIONS Unaffected individuals with parental history of depression or anxiety showed a higher cortisol awakening curve, similar to that of the participants with depression or anxiety disorders. This suggests that a higher cortisol awakening curve reflects a trait marker, indicating an underlying biological vulnerability for the development of depressive and anxiety disorders.
Enhanced Symmetry Breaking in Cost-Optimal Planning as Forward Search

The paper illustrates a novel approach to conformant planning using classical planners. The approach relies on two core ideas developed to deal with incomplete information in the initial situation: the use of a classical planner to solve non-classical planning problems, and the reduction of the size of the initial belief state. Differently from previous uses of classical planners to solve non-classical planning problems, the approach proposed in this paper creates a valid plan from a possible plan---by inserting actions into the possible plan and maintaining only one level of non-deterministic choice (i.e., the initial plan being modified). The algorithm can be instantiated with different classical planners---the paper presents the GC[LAMA] implementation, whose classical planner is LAMA. We investigate properties of the approach, including conditions for completeness. GC[LAMA] is empirically evaluated against state-of-the-art conformant planners, using benchmarks from the literature. The experimental results show that GC[LAMA] is superior to other planners, in both performance and scalability. GC[LAMA] is the only planner that can solve the largest instances from several domains. The paper investigates the reasons behind the good performance and the challenges encountered in GC[LAMA].
Virtual Exploration of the Chemical Universe up to 11 Atoms of C, N, O, F: Assembly of 26.4 Million Structures (110.9 Million Stereoisomers) and Analysis for New Ring Systems, Stereochemistry, Physicochemical Properties, Compound Classes, and Drug Discovery

All molecules of up to 11 atoms of C, N, O, and F possible under consideration of simple valency, chemical stability, and synthetic feasibility rules were generated and collected in a database (GDB). GDB contains 26.4 million molecules (110.9 million stereoisomers), including three- and four-membered rings and triple bonds. By comparison, only 63 857 compounds of up to 11 atoms were found in public databases (a combination of PubChem, ChemACX, ChemSCX, NCI open database, and the Merck Index). A total of 538 of the 1208 ring systems in GDB are currently unknown in the CAS Registry and Beilstein databases in any carbon/heteroatom/multiple-bond combination or as a substructure. Over 70% of GDB molecules are chiral. Because of their small size, all compounds obey Lipinski's bioavailability rule. A total of 13.2 million compounds also follow Congreve's "Rule of 3" for lead-likeness. A Kohonen map trained with autocorrelation descriptors organizes GDB according to compound classes and shows that leadlike compounds are most abundant in chiral regions of fused carbocycles and fused heterocycles. The projection of known compounds into this map indicates large uncharted areas of chemical space. The potential of GDB for drug discovery is illustrated by virtual screening for kinase inhibitors, G-protein coupled receptor ligands, and ion-channel modulators. The database is available from the author's Web page.
CT-Guided Percutaneous Biopsy of Intrathoracic Lesions

Percutaneous CT-guided needle biopsy of mediastinal and pulmonary lesions is a minimally invasive approach for obtaining tissue for histopathological examination. Although it is a widely accepted procedure with relatively few complications, precise planning and detailed knowledge of various aspects of the biopsy procedure is mandatory to avert complications. In this pictorial review, we reviewed important anatomical approaches, technical aspects of the procedure, and its associated complications.
Confirming the Chlamydia trachomatis status of referred rectal specimens

Objectives: To assess the reliability of different laboratory methods for the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis in rectal specimens Methods: 1782 rectal specimens confirmed as C trachomatis positive using a standard laboratory method, were forwarded to the Sexually Transmitted Bacteria Reference Laboratory (STBRL). All specimens were retested using a C trachomatis specific independent in-house real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). If this test was negative, a second test (Artus Real-Art PCR Kit) was employed as a confirmation. A correlation between real time PCR results obtained at the reference centre (STBRL), and the method of C trachomatis detection used in the primary laboratory was undertaken. Results: The percentage of specimens that could be confirmed as positive, compared with primary method of detection was as follows: C trachomatis culture 87.5%, strand displacement assay (SDA: Becton Dickinson) 93.4%, Cobas Amplicor (Roche) 89.2%, Aptima Combo Two assay (Genprobe) 83.3%, and enzyme immunoassays (EIA) 35.4%. Conclusions: High rates of confirmation can be achieved using an independent real time PCR assay to examine rectal specimens which had initially tested C trachomatis positive using nucleic acid amplification tests and chlamydia tissue culture. This is not possible for specimens that had been screened using EIA tests, which reflects the low specificity of this test when used for rectal specimens. Laboratories currently using EIA based assays to test rectal specimens should review this approach.
The effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation integration pattern exercise program on the fall efficacy and gait ability of the elders with experienced fall

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of exercising program utilizing proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation integration pattern (PIP), which is effective in improvement of the physical function, on the fall efficacy and gait ability of the elders who experienced injuries from falls. Also, this study aims to investigate he applicability of exercise program as methods for fall reoccurrence prevention and physical functions enhancement. The subjects of the study were 30 elders in the local community with experience of injuries from falls. The period of the study was 4 weeks with 12 exercise sessions. The subjects were randomly allocated to 2 groups where 15 elders were allocated to PIP and the rest 15 elders were allocated to general exercise (GE) group. Fall efficacy scale (FES) and GAITRite were used for the measurements in this study. Paired t-test was used to analyze the differences within the group while independent t-test was used to analyze the difference between two groups. In the comparison of measurements before and after exercise program, FES, velocity, cadence, and stride length were shown to be significantly increased in both PIP group and GE group. Also, in the comparison between two groups after the exercise program, the measurements of FES, cadence, stride length, and step length in PIP group were shown to be significantly increased compared to the GE group. Therefore, the PNF combined pattern is judged to be applicable to as methods for fall reoccurrence prevention and physical functions enhancement of the elders with experience of being fallen.
Making Set-Constraint Program Analyses Scale

Constraint-based program analyses are appealing because elaborate analyses can be described with a concise and simple set of constraint generation rules. Constraint resolution algorithms have been developed for many kinds of constraints, conceptually allowing an implementation of a constraint-based program analysis to reuse large pieces of existing code. In practice, however, new analyses often involve re-implementing new, complex constraint solving frameworks, tuned for the particular analysis in question. This approach wastes development time and interferes with the desire to experiment quickly with a number of different analyses. We believe that implementing an analysis should require writing only the code to generate the constraints, and that a well engineered-library can take care of constraint representation, resolution, and transformation. Writing such a library capable of handling small programs is not too difficult, but scaling to large programs is hard. Toward this goal, we are developing a scalable, expressive framework for solving a class of set constraints. Scalability is achieved through four techniques: polymorphism, simplification, separation, and sparse representation of constraints.
Advanced glycation endproduct (AGE) accumulation and AGE receptor (RAGE) up‐regulation contribute to the onset of diabetic cardiomyopathy

Diabetic cardiomyopathy is manifested by compromised systolic and diastolic function. This study was designed to examine the role of advanced glycation endproduct (AGE) and AGE receptor (RAGE) in diabetic cardiomyopathy. Heart function was assessed in isolated control and streptozotocin‐induced diabetic hearts following in vivo RAGE gene knockdown using RNA interference. Cardiomyocyte mechanical properties were evaluated including peak shortening (PS), time‐to‐PS (TPS) and time‐to‐90% relengthening (TR90). RAGE was assayed by RT‐PCR and immunoblot. Diabetes significantly enhanced cardiac MG, AGE and RAGE levels accompanied with colocalization of AGE and RAGE in cardiomyocytes. Diabetes‐elicited increase in RAGE was inhibited by in vivo siRNA interference. The AGE formation inhibitor benfotiamine significantly attenuated diabetes‐induced elevation in MG, AGE, RAGE and collagen cross‐linking without affecting hypertriglyceridaemia and hypercholesterolaemia in diabetes. Diabetes markedly decreased LV contractility, as evidenced by reduced ±dP/dt and LV developed pressure (LVDP), which were protected by RAGE gene knockdown. In addition, MG‐derived AGE (MG‐AGE) up‐regulated cardiac RAGE mRNA and triggered cardiomyocyte contractile dysfunction reminiscent of diabetic cardiomyopathy. The MG‐AGE‐elicited prolongation of TPS and TR90 was ablated by an anti‐RAGE antibody in cardiomyocytes. Interestingly, MG‐AGE‐induced cardiomyocyte dysfunction was associated with mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) depolarization and reduced GSK‐3β inactivation in control cardiomyocytes, similar to those from in vivo diabetes. Treatment with siRNA‐RAGE ablated diabetes‐induced MMP depolarization and GSK‐3β inactivation. Collectively, our result implicated a role of AGE‐RAGE in the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy.