Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Auditory Late Potentials in Normal-Hearing Adult Subjects With Down’s Syndrome

Objective Several studies have demonstrated that adult subjects with Down’s syndrome (DS) and hearing impairments show significantly delayed latencies in auditory late potentials (ALPs). The aim of this study was to investigate whether the differences were still present in ALPs in an adult DS population with normal hearing, taking into consideration sex, handedness, and head size. Study Design Prospective study. Setting Audiology unit of the hospital Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy. Patients Sixteen normal-hearing adult DS subjects referred to the health monitoring program for DS patients of Vivi Down Onlus Association in Milan, Italy (7 male subjects with a mean age of 26 ± 7.74 yr and 9 female subjects with a mean age of 28 ± 8.63 yr) and 16 controls (7 male subjects with a mean age of 26 ± 7.74 yr and 9 female subjects with a mean age of 28 ± 8.86 yr) matched for sex, age, and handedness. Main Outcome Measure The 2 negative peaks, N1 and N2, and the 2 positive peaks, P1 and P2, of ALP. Results ALP N1 and P2 components were well defined in all subjects. The P1 and N2 components were less evident than the others. There were significant delayed latencies in the DS group with respect to the control subjects for P1, N1, P2, and N2 components. Conclusion Our study demonstrated that ALP longer latencies are present in adult DS participants even when they have a normal hearing threshold, regardless of handedness and head size.
Disordered aldosterone-volume relationship in end-stage kidney disease

Introduction. Sodium loading, and subsequent volume expansion, suppresses aldosterone levels in individuals with normal renal function. We hypothesised that loss of renal function impairs this volume-aldosterone relationship. Materials and methods. With multifrequency bioimpedance spectroscopy, we measured total body water (TBW), extracellular volume (ECV), and intracellular volume in five haemodialysis patients at varied states of hydration and in five healthy volunteers during low-, normal-, and high-salt diets. Serum aldosterone, potassium, and C-reactive protein were measured simultaneously. Scatterplots and general estimating equations were used to examine the relationship among these variables. Results. In healthy volunteers with salt loading, and in haemodialysis subjects with increased inter-dialytic weight gain, expansion of ECV led to reciprocal declines in serum aldosterone concentrations. The relationship was more profound in healthy volunteers (p<0.001) than in haemodialysis subjects (p=0.1). Notably, haemodialysis subjects posted consistently higher levels of ECV (median 49.6% TBW, IQR 43.9—51.8% compared to 41.1%, 39.9—42.8% in volunteers) and serum aldosterone (median 26.7 ng/dl, IQR 19.8—29.6 compared to 12.4 ng/dl, 8.8—16.0 in volunteers). Serum potassium did not appear to influence aldosterone concentration (p=0.9). Conclusions. The shift of the volume-aldosterone curve in haemodialysis subjects suggests that end-stage kidney disease is a state of high volume and inappropriately high aldosterone. These data have important clinical implications, as dialysis patients may benefit from both volume reduction and mineralocorticoid receptor blockade.
Decreased basal fMRI functional connectivity in epileptogenic networks and contralateral compensatory mechanisms

A better understanding of interstructure relationship sustaining drug‐resistant epileptogenic networks is crucial for surgical perspective and to better understand the consequences of epileptic processes on cognitive functions. We used resting‐state fMRI to study basal functional connectivity within temporal lobes in medial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) during interictal period. Two hundred consecutive single‐shot GE‐EPI acquisitions were acquired in 37 right‐handed subjects (26 controls, eight patients presenting with left and three patients with right MTLE). For each hemisphere, normalized correlation coefficients were computed between pairs of time‐course signals extracted from five regions involved in MTLE epileptogenic networks (Brodmann area 38, amygdala, entorhinal cortex (EC), anterior hippocampus (AntHip), and posterior hippocampus (PostHip)). In controls, an asymmetry was present with a global higher connectivity in the left temporal lobe. Relative to controls, the left MTLE group showed disruption of the left EC‐AntHip link, and a trend of decreased connectivity of the left AntHip‐PostHip link. In contrast, a trend of increased connectivity of the right AntHip‐PostHip link was observed and was positively correlated to memory performance. At the individual level, seven out of the eight left MTLE patients showed decreased or disrupted functional connectivity. In this group, four patients with left TLE showed increased basal functional connectivity restricted to the right temporal lobe spared by seizures onset. A reverse pattern was observed at the individual level for patients with right TLE. This is the first demonstration of decreased basal functional connectivity within epileptogenic networks with concomitant contralateral increased connectivity possibly reflecting compensatory mechanisms. Hum Brain Mapp 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Approximation schemes for Metric Bisection and partitioning

We design polynomial time approximation schemes (PTASs) for Metric BISECTION, i.e. dividing a given finite metric space into two halves so as to minimize or maximize the sum of distances across the cut. The method extends to partitioning problems with arbitrary size constraints. Our approximation schemes depend on a hybrid placement method and on a new application of linearized quadratic programs.
The Category-Theoretic Arithmetic of Information

AbstractWe highlight the underlying category-theoretic structure of mea-sures of information ﬂow. We present an axiomatic framework inwhich communication systems are represented as morphisms, and in-formation ﬂow is characterized by its behavior when communicationsystems are combined. Our framework includes a variety of discrete,continuous, and, conjecturally, quantum information measures. It alsoincludes some familiar mathematical constructs not normally associ-ated with information, such as vector space dimension. We discussthese examples and prove basic results from the axioms. 1 Introduction Information theory characterizes the transmission ofinformation using a vari-ety of measures, including discrete and continuous versions ofentropy, mutualinformation, and channel capacity. Quantum information theory has addedto this list by introducing notions of quantum channel capacity.In this work we identify a category-theoretic structure underlying thesemeasures. We show that communication systems have a natural represen-tation as morphisms, and using this representation, we give axioms that1
A Clinicopathological Study of Cutaneous Tuberculosis at Dibrugarh District, Assam

Background: Cutaneous tuberculosis forms a small subset of extra pulmonary tuberculosis and has a worldwide distribution. Aims: The present study is an attempt to find out the incidence, clinical spectrum, and histopathological features of cutaneous tuberculosis. Materials and Methods: A total of 42 cases of newly diagnosed patients of cutaneous tuberculosis attending dermatology out patient department over a period of 1 year were included in the study. A detailed clinical examination and investigations including histopathological examination were carried out. Results: Scrofuloderma was the most common form seen in 50% cases followed by lupus vulgaris in 42.86%, tuberculosis verrucosa cutis in 4.76%, and lichen scrofulosorum in 2.38% cases. The Mantoux test was positive in 83.33% cases. Characteristic tuberculoid granulomas were seen in 72.22% cases of lupus vulgaris, 42.86% cases of scrofuloderma and all cases of tuberculosis verrucosa cutis and lichen scrofulosorum. Conclusion: Cutaneous tuberculosis is still highly prevalent in upper Assam. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent its complications.
Pancreatic stone protein is highly increased during posttraumatic sepsis and activates neutrophil granulocytes*

Objectives:The level of pancreatic stone protein/regenerating protein (PSP/reg), a secretory protein produced in the pancreas, increases dramatically during pancreatic disease. However, after stress (e.g., anesthesia), PSP/reg levels are increased transiently in animals without pancreatic injury. Therefore, we aimed to determine whether PSP/reg is an acute-phase protein after nonpancreatic trauma. Patients:Eighty-three polytraumatic patients without pancreatic damage. Measurements and Main Results:We compared serum PSP/reg levels from polytraumatic patients without pancreatic damage with those in healthy controls (n = 38). C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, procalcitonin, and leukocyte numbers were also compared. The expression of CD62L and CD11b on neutrophils after exposure to PSP/reg was analyzed by flow cytometry. Thirty-three patients (39%) developed sepsis, 32 (38%) had local infections, and 18 (21%) had no infections. At admission, PSP/reg serum levels (10.2 [6.2–14.5] ng/mL; median [interquartile range]) were comparable with those in healthy controls (10.4 [7.5–12.3] ng/mL). During hospital stay, PSP/reg levels were elevated significantly in patients with sepsis (146.4 ng/mL) and in patients with infections (111.4 ng/mL) compared with patients without infections (22.8 ng/mL). Furthermore, binding of fluorescein isothiocyanate–labeled recombinant PSP/reg to human neutrophils was demonstrated. Recombinant PSP/reg elicited a dose-dependent shedding of L-selectin (CD62L) and upregulation of &bgr;2-integrin (CD11b) in neutrophils, which indicates that PSP/reg activates neutrophils. Conclusions:We conclude that PSP/reg is up-regulated in blood after trauma, and the PSP/reg level is related to the severity of inflammation. Furthermore, PSP/reg binds to and activates neutrophils. Therefore, PSP/reg might be an acute-phase protein that could serve as a marker for posttraumatic complications.
Patterns of vegetation change and the recovery potential of degraded areas in a coastal marsh system of the Hudson Bay lowlands

1 In recent decades, foraging by increasing numbers of lesser snow geese has led to loss of vegetation and changes in soil conditions in marshes on the Hudson Bay coast. 2 Changes in species composition were recorded in areas unprotected from goose foraging and in exclosures of varying age (5–15 years) erected in intact swards and on bare sediments where foraging had occurred at La Pérouse Bay, Manitoba. 3 In the supratidal marsh, plants failed to establish naturally in either open or exclosed (15 years) plots in bare areas. In moist intertidal soils, vegetative fragments of the asexual species Puccinellia phryganodes readily established and formed a mat in exclosures (5 years). 4 Changes in species assemblages occurred over 11 years in exclosed and adjacent open plots in intertidal and supratidal marshes. Loss of vegetation cover and species richness, particularly dicotyledonous species, and the reversion of later successional plant assemblages to earlier successional assemblages occurred in open plots. In the absence of foraging, late successional graminoids and willow species replaced early successional graminoids. 5 Late successional grasses of the upper intertidal marsh died when transplanted into degraded soils but still survived after one season in control plots, suggesting that an early successional template is needed for establishment. 6 In the absence of goose foraging, natural re‐vegetation by clonal propagation can occur only where edaphic conditions are suitable. Within exclosures, vegetation changes resemble those in undamaged areas where goose foraging pressure is still moderate. We propose a state and transition model for vegetation change in the system based on succession patterns, alternative vegetation states and geomorphological events.
Antimicrobial Resistance in Escherichia coli Isolates from Swine and Wild Small Mammals in the Proximity of Swine Farms and in Natural Environments in Ontario, Canada

ABSTRACT Wild animals not normally exposed to antimicrobial agents can acquire antimicrobial agent-resistant bacteria through contact with humans and domestic animals and through the environment. In this study we assessed the frequency of antimicrobial resistance in generic Escherichia coli isolates from wild small mammals (mice, voles, and shrews) and the effect of their habitat (farm or natural area) on antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, we compared the types and frequency of antimicrobial resistance in E. coli isolates from swine on the same farms from which wild small mammals were collected. Animals residing in the vicinity of farms were five times more likely to carry E. coli isolates with tetracycline resistance determinants than animals living in natural areas; resistance to tetracycline was also the most frequently observed resistance in isolates recovered from swine (83%). Our results suggest that E. coli isolates from wild small mammals living on farms have higher rates of resistance and are more frequently multiresistant than E. coli isolates from environments, such as natural areas, that are less impacted by human and agricultural activities. No Salmonella isolates were recovered from any of the wild small mammal feces. This study suggests that close proximity to food animal agriculture increases the likelihood that E. coli isolates from wild animals are resistant to some antimicrobials, possibly due to exposure to resistant E. coli isolates from livestock, to the resistance genes of these isolates, or to antimicrobials through contact with animal feed.
Effects of joint geometry and material on stress distribution, strength and failure of bonded composite joints: an overview

ABSTRACT A comprehensive literature review on the existing analytical models based on different material and geometry behaviors for both single and double-lap joints (as well as others) has been made to assist a designer to select the proper model for a particular application. The effects of environmental conditions on the joint performance are also included. The survey shows that the analytic models selected for the adhesively bonded lap joints (single or double), as well as other types of joints (i.e. butt, scarf, and stepped), with linear material properties are mostly two dimensional where the solutions for stress distribution and/or failure of the joint are investigated either analytically or by finite element method. The results seem to be generally accurate and adequate, since in most joints under unidirectional loading, stresses in the width direction are significantly lower than those in the loading direction. Although the inclusion of material non-linearity in such joints, as well as T and hybrid joints, renders the solution too complex, yet, there are many models which have included the non-linear behavior of the adhesive layer into their formulation to predict stress distribution, as well as strength and/or failure of the composite joint. This includes the viscoelastic behavior of the adhesive as well as its creep behavior. In addition, a summary of the main analyses is presented to show the applicability of different solution methods in both complex and semi-complex problems, dealing with either a simple or a composite joint with laminated adherend layers. Results show that cohesive zone models (CZM) appear to be a powerful tool for failure analysis of such joints. Moreover, a comprehensive study of various models based on either linear or non-linear material behavior of the adherend and/or adhesive (including its viscoelastic behavior) is performed on tubular joints to show the effect of material behavior on the joint failure.
Clinical evaluation of a fully implantable hearing device in six patients with mixed and sensorineural hearing loss: Our experience

Speech Lang. Hear. Res. 40, 1352–1357 8 Georgalas C. , Sandhu G. , Trosh A. et al. (2005) Cophenylcaine spray vs. placebo in flexible nasendoscopy: a prospective double-blind randomised controlled trial. Int. J. Clin. Pract. 59, 130–133 9 Cain A.J., Murray D.P. & Mc Clymont L.G. (2002) The use of topical nasal anaesthesia before flexible nasendoscopy: a doubleblind, randomized controlled trial comparing cophenylcaine with placebo. Clin. Otolaryngol. Allied Sci. 27, 485–488 10 Machin D. , Campbell M.J., Fayers P.M. et al. (1997) Sample Size Tables for Clinical Studies, 2nd Edn. Blackwell Sci., Oxford, p. 7
Paraquat-and Rotenone-Induced Models of Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder mainly characterized by a loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. In recent years, several new genes and environmental factors have been implicated in PD, and their impact on DA neuronal cell death is slowly emerging. However, PD etiology remains unknown, whereas its pathogenesis begins to be clarified as a multifactorial cascade of deleterious factors. Recent epidemiological studies have linked exposure to environmental agents, including pesticides, with an increased risk of developing the disease. As a result, over the last two decades the ‘environmental hypothesis’ of PD has gained considerable interest. This speculates that agricultural chemicals in the environment, by producing selective dopaminergic cell death, can contribute to the development of the disease. However, a causal role for pesticides in the etiology of PD has yet to be definitively established. Importantly, most insights into PD pathogenesis came from investigations performed in experimental models of PD, especially those produced by neurotoxins. This review presents data obtained in our laboratories along with current views on the neurotoxic actions induced by the two most popular parkinsonian pesticide neurotoxins, namely paraquat and rotenone. Although confined to these two chemicals, mechanistic studies underlying dopaminergic cell death are of the utmost importance to identify new drug targets for the treatment of PD.
Identification of duck HSP70 gene, polymorphism analysis and tissue expression under control and heat stress conditions

Abstract 1. This study was designed to characterise the duck heat shock protein 70 gene (HSP70) and identify sequence variation. 2. Chicken HSP70 sequence (GenBank: AY143693) was used as a template to design a primer pair to amplify partial duck HSP70 gene. Primers were subsequently designed with the duck HSP70 gene as a template to amplify the complete duck HSP70 sequence. 3. Twelve commercial Sanshui White ducklings were subjected to a heat stress experiment. Tissue samples were collected for RNA extraction and real-time PCR to analyse the expression mechanism of duck HSP70. 4. A DNA pool was constructed from three different species for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) screening. The genotypes of the identified SNPs were detected in 145 Sanshui White ducklings. 5. Duck HSP70 gene was identified and characterised (GenBank: EU678246) and shown to contain no introns. Fifteen variations were identified within the open reading frame. Quantitative real-time PCR results showed that the expression of duck HSP70 gene was tissue specific and the highest expression level was seen in pectoral muscle.
Examining data quality

defined as “fitness for use,” which implies the concept of data quality is relative. Thus data with quality considered appropriate for one use may not possess sufficient quality for another use. The trend toward multiple uses of data, exemplified by the popularity of data warehouses, has highlighted the need to address data quality concerns. Furthermore, fitness for use implies that one needs to look beyond traditional concerns with the accuracy of the data. Data found in accounting-type systems may be accurate but unfit for use if that data is not sufficiently timely. Also, personnel databases situated in different divisions of a company may be correct but unfit for use if the desire is to combine the two and they have incompatible formats. A related problem with multiple users of data is that of semantics. The data gatherer and initial user may be fully aware of the nuances regarding the meaning of the various data items, but that will not be true for all of the other users. Thus, although the value may be correct, it can easily be misinterpreted. Also, the capability of judging the reasonableness of the data is lost when users have no responsibility for the data’s integrity and when they are removed from the gatherers. Such problems are becoming increasingly critical as organizations implement data warehouses. Another trend that explains the heightened aware-
Orbitofacial masses in children: an endoscopic approach.

OBJECTIVE To describe an endoscopic approach for pediatric orbitofacial masses. DESIGN A retrospective medical chart review. SETTING Tertiary-care children's hospital. PARTICIPANTS Patients (4 boys, 7 girls) ranged in age from 6 months to 11 years. All children underwent endoscopic excision of an orbitofacial mass. INTERVENTION A single port approach was used in all but the initial case. The scalp incision was placed approximately 2.0 cm behind the frontal hairline. A subgaleal dissection was performed to minimize risk of nerve injury. Under endoscopic visualization, the mass was resected. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Ability to successfully excise the mass endoscopically, and the incidence of complication. RESULTS All lesions were successfully resected endoscopically. The surgical time varied from 30 to 105 minutes (mean, 50.5 minutes). Pathologic examination revealed 10 dermoid cysts and 1 neurofibroma. Two children had transient frontalis branch palsies that resolved spontaneously. There was 1 unilateral frontal hypoesthesia in the patient with the neurofibroma (an expected result). There were no other complications. CONCLUSIONS An endoscopic approach to pediatric orbitofacial tumors is safe and effective. Although the risk of nerve injury may be higher, a thorough knowledge of frontotemporal anatomy and careful dissection will minimize this risk. The distinct advantage of an endoscopic approach is the absence of any facial scar in these young patients.
Porcine Circovirus Type 2 Induces Autophagy via the AMPK/ERK/TSC2/mTOR Signaling Pathway in PK-15 Cells

ABSTRACT Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) uses autophagy machinery to enhance its replication in PK-15 cells. However, the underlying mechanisms are unknown. By the use of specific inhibitors, RNA interference, and coimmunoprecipitation, we show that PCV2 induces autophagy in PK-15 cells through a pathway involving the kinases AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), the tumor suppressor protein TSC2, and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). AMPK and ERK1/2 positively regulate autophagy through negative control of the mTOR pathway by phosphorylating TSC2 in PCV2-infected PK-15 cells. Thus, PCV2 might induce autophagy via the AMPK/ERK/TSC2/mTOR signaling pathway in the host cells, representing a pivotal mechanism for PCV2 pathogenesis.
Probiotics: A New Era of Biotherapy

Probiotics or health-beneficial bacteria have only recently been introduced in dentistry after years of successful use in mainly gastrointestinal disorders. The concept of bacteriotherapy was first introduced in the beginning of 20th century. They are administered in different quantities that allow for colon colonization. These products help in stimulating health promoting flora and also suppressing the pathologic colonization and disease spread. The use of probiotic plays an important aspect in dentistry too, ever since the oral infections occupied the prime spot among the other infections affecting the humans. Probiotics strengthen the immune system to combat allergies, stress, exposure to toxic substances, and other diseases. This review is an attempt to discuss briefly the role of probiotics in oral health.