Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Mefloquine tolerability during chemoprophylaxis: focus on adverse event assessments, stereochemistry and compliance

This longitudinal study of travellers to Africa taking mefloquine (MQ) chemoprophylaxis aimed to quantify and assess non‐serious adverse events (AE) occurring during short‐term prophylaxis and relate these to concentrations of racemic MQ, its enantiomers and metabolite. A total of 420 volunteers (52% F) participated. AEs with some impact on activities were reported by 11.2% of participants including 7.9% of neurological/psychiatric symptoms. Women were more likely to report AEs (P=0.02). The standardized questionnaires used showed more pathological indicators in travellers who reported subjective AE with significantly more dizziness, distress, sleep disturbances and a high total mood disturbance (TMD) in the AE group. There was, however, no significant performance deficit in computerized psychomotor tests in those experiencing AE. Furthermore, no significant differences were observed in enantiomer ratios, metabolite concentrations, or racemic MQ levels in participants with or without AEs suggesting that these factors are not the main predictors of mefloquine intolerability.
Diverse Strategies Engaged in Establishing Stereotypic Wiring Patterns among Neurons Sharing a Common Input at the Visual System's First Synapse

Sensory circuits use common strategies, such as convergence and divergence, typically at different synapses, to pool or distribute inputs. Inputs from different presynaptic cell types converge onto a common postsynaptic cell, acting together to shape neuronal output (Klausberger and Somogyi, 2008). Also, individual presynaptic cells contact several postsynaptic cell types, generating divergence of signals. Attaining such complex wiring patterns relies on the orchestration of many events across development, including axonal and dendritic growth and synapse formation and elimination (reviewed by Waites et al., 2005; Sanes and Yamagata, 2009). Recent work has focused on how distinct presynaptic cell types form stereotypic connections with an individual postsynaptic cell (Morgan et al., 2011; Williams et al., 2011), but how a single presynaptic cell type diverges to form distinct wiring patterns with multiple postsynaptic cell types during development remains unexplored. Here we take advantage of the compactness of the visual system's first synapse to observe development of such a circuit in mouse retina. By imaging three types of postsynaptic bipolar cells and their common photoreceptor targets across development, we found that distinct bipolar cell types engage in disparate dendritic growth behaviors, exhibit targeted or exploratory approaches to contact photoreceptors, and adhere differently to the synaptotropic model of establishing synaptic territories. Furthermore each type establishes its final connectivity patterns with the same afferents on separate time scales. We propose that such differences in strategy and timeline could facilitate the division of common inputs among multiple postsynaptic cell types to create parallel circuits with diverse function.
Fifty Years of MIMO Detection: The Road to Large-Scale MIMOs

The emerging massive/large-scale multiple-input multiple-output (LS-MIMO) systems that rely on very large antenna arrays have become a hot topic of wireless communications. Compared to multi-antenna aided systems being built at the time of this writing, such as the long-term evolution (LTE) based fourth generation (4G) mobile communication system which allows for up to eight antenna elements at the base station (BS), the LS-MIMO system entails an unprecedented number of antennas, say 100 or more, at the BS. The huge leap in the number of BS antennas opens the door to a new research field in communication theory, propagation and electronics, where random matrix theory begins to play a dominant role. Interestingly, LS-MIMOs also constitute a perfect example of one of the key philosophical principles of the Hegelian Dialectics, namely, that “quantitative change leads to qualitative change. ” In this treatise, we provide a recital on the historic heritages and novel challenges facing LS-MIMOs from a detection perspective. First, we highlight the fundamentals of MIMO detection, including the nature of co-channel interference (CCI), the generality of the MIMO detection problem, the received signal models of both linear memoryless MIMO channels and dispersive MIMO channels exhibiting memory, as well as the complex-valued versus real-valued MIMO system models. Then, an extensive review of the representative MIMO detection methods conceived during the past 50 years (1965-2015) is presented, and relevant insights as well as lessons are inferred for the sake of designing complexity-scalable MIMO detection algorithms that are potentially applicable to LS-MIMO systems. Furthermore, we divide the LS-MIMO systems into two types, and elaborate on the distinct detection strategies suitable for each of them. The type-I LS-MIMO corresponds to the case where the number of active users is much smaller than the number of BS antennas, which is currently the mainstream definition of LS-MIMO. The type-II LS-MIMO corresponds to the case where the number of active users is comparable to the number of BS antennas. Finally, we discuss the applicability of existing MIMO detection algorithms in LS-MIMO systems, and review some of the recent advances in LS-MIMO detection.
Development of a Bi-National Great Lakes Coastal Wetland and Land Use Map Using Three-Season PALSAR and Landsat Imagery

Methods using extensive field data and three-season Landsat TM and PALSAR imagery were developed to map wetland type and identify potential wetland stressors (i.e., adjacent land use) for the United States and Canadian Laurentian coastal Great Lakes. The mapped area included the coastline to 10 km inland to capture the region hydrologically connected to the Great Lakes. Maps were developed in cooperation with the overarching Great Lakes Consortium plan to provide a comprehensive regional baseline map suitable for coastal wetland assessment and management by agencies at the local, tribal, state, and federal levels. The goal was to provide not only land use and land cover (LULC) baseline data at moderate spatial resolution (20–30 m), but a repeatable methodology to monitor change into the future. The prime focus was on mapping wetland ecosystem types, such as emergent wetland and forested wetland, as well as to delineate wetland monocultures (Typha, Phragmites, Schoenoplectus) and differentiate peatlands (fens and bogs) from other wetland types. The overall accuracy for the coastal Great Lakes map of all five lake basins was 94%, with a range of 86% to 96% by individual lake basin (Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie and Superior).
Optimizing Small-Cell Range in Heterogeneous and Load-Coupled LTE Networks

We address small-cell range optimization in heterogeneous long-term evolution networks with the performance target of maximizing the scaling-up factor of traffic demand that can be served while accounting for load coupling between cells. We prove the problem's complexity and develop a solution approach consisting of two complementary modules. We also demonstrate how to gauge the deviation from global optimality. Performance results show the effectiveness of the approach and highlight the benefit of range optimization.
Reducing the iron burden and improving survival in transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients: current perspectives

Hypertransfusion regimens for thalassemic patients revolutionized the management of severe thalassemia; transforming a disease which previously led to early infant death into a chronic condition. The devastating effect of the accrued iron from chronic blood transfusions necessitates a more finely tuned approach to limit the complications of the disease, as well as its treatment. A comprehensive approach including carefully tailored transfusion protocol, continuous monitoring and assessment of total body iron levels, and iron chelation are currently the mainstay in treating iron overload. There are also indications for ancillary treatments, such as splenectomy and fetal hemoglobin induction. The main cause of death in iron overload continues to be related to cardiac complications. However, since the widespread use of iron chelation started in the 1970s, there has been a general improvement in survival in these patients.
Narrow band imaging for the diagnosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A systematic review

Narrow band imaging (NBI) is reported to improve the diagnostic accuracy of head and neck cancers. The purpose of this review was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of NBI in the literature. A systematic review was performed in PubMed, Web of Knowledge, and the Cochrane Library until March 2015. Two reviewers independently assessed articles and extracted data. Meta‐analyses were performed in MetaDisc 1.6. Five hundred seventeen studies were identified and 17 were included in this study. Combined use of NBI and white light imaging (WLI) showed high diagnostic accuracies for primary, recurrent, and nasopharyngeal lesions. Methodological heterogeneity exists and meta‐analyses were only appropriate for cancers of unknown primary (CUP) in which NBI performed on 115 patients across 4 studies demonstrated high sensitivity (74.1%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 52.5% to 100%) and specificity (94.1%; 95% CI = 23.7% to 100%). NBI may further help identify lesions in CUP not seen by positron emission tomography (PET)‐CT. NBI offers a high level of diagnostic accuracy for head and neck cancers. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E2358–E2367, 2016
Mannose-Binding Lectin Binds to a Range of Clinically Relevant Microorganisms and Promotes Complement Deposition

ABSTRACT Mannose-binding lectin (MBL) is a collagenous serum lectin believed to be of importance in innate immunity. Genetically determined low levels of the protein are known to predispose to infections. In this study the binding of purified MBL to pathogens isolated from immunocompromised children was investigated by flow cytometry. DiverseCandida species, Aspergillus fumigatus,Staphylococcus aureus, and beta-hemolytic group A streptococci exhibited strong binding of MBL, whereas Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species, and Haemophilus influenzae type b were characterized by heterogeneous binding patterns. In contrast, beta-hemolytic group B streptococci,Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus epidermidis showed low levels of binding. Bound MBL was able to promote C4 deposition in a concentration-dependent manner. We conclude that MBL may be of importance in first-line immune defense against several important pathogens.
Continuity and change

It is with both trepidation and enthusiasm that I assume, with this issue, the editorship of Injury Prevention . The trepidation is engendered by the unenviable task of trying to follow Dr Barry Pless in this role. As the founding editor, he set and maintained high standards for the scientific quality and editorial integrity of the journal. The skills and perspective required to uphold those standards seem to come effortlessly to him after 13 years at the helm. For me, it is a daunting prospect to learn these skills “on the job” while continuing to ensure that that the journal remains relevant and timely for our readers and welcoming to the authors who submit their work. Fortunately, I don’t need to do this alone. I have the able assistance of five associate editors, most of whom have been involved with Injury Prevention for many years in various capacities: Shanthi Ameratunga (New Zealand), Danilo Blank (Brazil), Denise …
The Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis and Its Severity Instrument: Development and Validation

PURPOSE: To develop and test the validity and interrater reliability of the Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis and its Severity Instrument, a novel tool describing incontinence-associated dermatitis and its severity. METHODS: Investigators consulted 2 certified WOC nurse experts to determine face validity of the instrument. Seven additional certified WOC nurses evaluated the tool for content validity. The instrument was tested for interrater reliability by attendees at the 2007 WOCN Society National Conference and employees at a health care system in Minnesota. Criterion validity was determined by comparing IAD severity scores of testers with those of the 2 WOC experts and PI. RESULTS: Consultants determined that the instrument had face and content validity. Two hundred forty-seven attendees at the WOCN Society's National Conference (mean nursing experience 25 ± 9 years [mean ± SD]), 100 nursing staff in Minnesota: 84 staff nurses (mean nursing experience 17 ± 12 years), and 16 nursing assistants (mean nursing experience 7 ± 7 years) determined that the instrument has content validity. There were no significant differences in scores of IAD severity for the 4 cases among the 3 types of testers (P > .05). Overall agreement between the 347 raters and the experts using intraclass correlation was 0.98 (P [SUPERSCRIPT EQUALS SIGN] .006). CONCLUSION: The Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis and its Severity Instrument demonstrated good validity and interrater reliability and its development fulfills an unmet need in both research and clinical practice settings.
Local Structure of Singular Profiles for a Derivative Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation

The Derivative Nonlinear Schrodinger equation is an $L^2$-critical nonlinear dispersive equation model for Alfven waves in space plasmas. Recent numerical studies on an $L^2$-supercritical extension of this equation provide evidence of finite time singularities. Near the singular point, the solution is described by a universal profile that solves a nonlinear elliptic eigenvalue problem depending only on the strength of the nonlinearity. In the present work, we describe the deformation of the profile and its parameters near criticality, combining asymptotic analysis and numerical simulations.
Minimum-time control of Boolean networks: An algebraic approach

We consider the problem of steering a Boolean control network (BCN) between two given states in minimal time. Using the algebraic state-space representation (ASSR) of BCNs, we derive several necessary conditions for a control to be time-optimal. In the ASSR, every state and input vector is a canonical vector. Using this special structure yields an explicit state-feedback formula for all time-optimal controls.
Severe pulmonary hypertension in idiopathic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common complication of interstitial lung disease (ILD), particularly in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and ILD associated with connective tissue disease, where the underlying pathology is often a nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) pattern. The degree of PH in ILD is typically mild to moderate and radiographic changes of ILD are usually prominent. We describe four patients with idiopathic NSIP and severe PH (mPAP > 40 mmHg). The average mean pulmonary artery pressure was 51±7 mmHg and pulmonary vascular resistance was 13±4 Wood's units. Pulmonary function was characterized by mild restriction (total lung capacity 63–94% predicted) and profound reductions in DLCO (19–53% predicted). Computed tomographic imaging revealed minimal to moderate interstitial thickening without honeycombing. In two of the cases, an initial clinical diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension was made. Both were treated with intravenous epoprostenol, which was associated with worsening of hypoxemia. All four patients died or underwent lung transplant within 4 years of PH diagnonsis. Lung pathology in all four demonstrated fibrotic NSIP with medial thickening of the small and medium pulmonary arteries, and proliferative intimal lesions that stained negative for endothelial markers (CD31 and CD34) and positive for smooth muscle actin. There were no plexiform lesions. Severe pulmonary hypertension can therefore occur in idiopathic NSIP, even in the absence of advanced radiographic changes. Clinicians should suspect underlying ILD as the basis for PH when DLCO is severely reduced or gas exchange deteriorates with pulmonary vasodilator therapy.
Knockdown of surviving expression by RNAi induces apoptosis in HeLa cells

Evasion of apoptosis is a hallmark of cancer, but the molecular mechanisms of this process are not fully understood. Survivin, a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis gene family, is overexpressed in most human tumors, particularly in those resistant to therapy. This quality makes it attractive as a potential target in cancer therapy. In this study, RNA interference (RNAi), a novel technique, was employed to knockdown target gene levels and protein expression to reduce survivin expression in HeLa cells. The pSUPER RNAi system, which provides a mammalian expression vector that directs intracellular synthesis of siRNA-like transcripts, was used. Three targeting sequences-SUR1, SUR2, and SUR3-were selected. These sequences successfully knocked down survivin mRNA levels in HeLa cells, which in turn experienced increased apoptosis. To determine the effect of knocking down survivin on apoptosis, the p53 gene, which is the correlative gene of apoptosis, was studied. RT-PCR assays show that as survivin expression diminished, the level of p53 increased. This result demonstrates that survivin RNAi influences the apoptosis of HeLa cells. Given that survivin plays such a significant role in cancer, knocking down its expression efficiently can have an important therapeutic benefit.
A study of a multimedia web annotation system and its effect on the EFL writing and speaking performance of junior high school students

Abstract The aim of this study was to improve students’ English as Foreign Language (EFL) writing and speaking performance with appropriate learning activity design supported by Virtual Pen (VPen), a multimedia web annotation system. Students’ perceptions toward using VPen and learningactivities, attitude toward using VPen, actual VPen usage and their relationships were also investigated. After the experiment the students perceived that VPen was easy to use and useful during learning activities, and generally had a positive attitude toward using VPen. Furthermore, the students believed that learning activities were ‘playful’ and useful for improving writing and speaking performance. Further investigation revealed that the students’ actual VPen usage had a significant correlation with speaking and writing performance and that students’ speaking and writing performance significantly correlated with learning achievement. Based on our findings, we conclude that designed learning activities supported by the VPen system could facilitate students’ writing and speaking performance and therefore improve their learning achievement.
[1,3-Bis(diphenylphosphino)pentane-κ2 P,P′]tetracarbonylchromium(0)

In the title compound, [Cr(C29H30P2)(CO)4], the Cr atom is octahedrally coordinated by four carbonyl ligands and one bidentate phosphine ligand, which is bounded as a chelate in a cis position. The average Cr—P and Cr—C bond lengths are 2.377 and 1.865 Å, respectively.
The L279P Mutation of Nuclear Distribution Gene C (NudC) Influences Its Chaperone Activity and Lissencephaly Protein 1 (LIS1) Stability*

LIS1, a gene mutated in classical lissencephaly, plays essential roles in cytoplasmic dynein regulation, mitosis and cell migration. However, the regulation of LIS1 (lissencephaly protein 1) protein remains largely unknown. Genetic studies in Aspergillus nidulans have uncovered that the Nud (nuclear distribution) pathway is involved in the regulation of cytoplasmic dynein complex and a temperature-sensitive mutation in the nudC gene (L146P) greatly reduces the protein levels of NudF, an Aspergillus ortholog of LIS1. Here, we showed that L146 in Aspergillus NudC and its flanking region were highly conservative during evolution. The similar mutation in human NudC (L279P) obviously led to reduced LIS1 and cellular phenotypes similar to those of LIS1 down-regulation. To explore the underlying mechanism, we found that the p23 domain-containing protein NudC bound to the molecular chaperone Hsp90, which is also associated with LIS1. Inhibition of Hsp90 chaperone function by either geldanamycin or radicicol resulted in a decrease in LIS1 levels. Ectopic expression of Hsp90 partially reversed the degradation of LIS1 caused by overexpression of NudC-L279P. Furthermore, NudC was found to regulate the ATPase activity of Hsp90, which was repressed by the mutation of L279P. Interestingly, NudC itself was shown to possess a chaperone function, which also was suppressed by the L279P mutation. Together, these data suggest that NudC may be involved in the regulation of LIS1 stability by its chaperone function.
Influence of partial replacement of soya bean meal by faba beans or peas in heavy pigs diet on meat quality, residual anti-nutritional factors and phytoestrogen content

The study evaluated the partial substitution of soybean meal by faba beans (18%) or peas (20%) as additional protein sources in diets destined for typical Italian heavy pig production. It compared animal performances, meat quality, the presence of residual anti-nutritional factors (ANF) and phytoestrogens in plasma and meat and the possible effects on pig health, by evaluating oxidative, inflammatory and pro-atherogenic markers. The results showed that the productive performances, expressed as body weight and feed conversion ratio, of pigs fed with faba bean and pea diets were similar to those of pigs fed only the soybean meal. Meat quality of pigs fed with the three diets was similar in colour, water-holding capacity, tenderness and chemical composition. Despite the higher levels of phytoestrogen in the plasma of pigs fed only the soybean meal, phytoestrogen concentration in the muscle was equivalent to that of animals fed diets with faba beans, whereas pigs fed a diet with peas showed a lower concentration. Inflammation and pro-atherogenic parameters did not show significant differences among the three diets. Overall, the partial substitution of soybean meal by faba beans appears more interesting than with peas, particularly in relation to the higher amount of polyphenols in the diet and the highest concentration of phytoestrogens found in the plasma and muscle of animals, while the pyrimidine anti-nutritional compounds present in the diet did not appear to accumulate and had no effect on the growth performance of animals.