Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Impact of Isolated Burns on Major Organs: A Large Animal Model Characterized

ABSTRACT Severe burn results in systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and multiple organ dysfunction (MOD). Currently, large-animal models of burn-induced SIRS/MOD mostly use secondary insults resulting in a paucity of knowledge on the effect of burn alone on different organ systems. The objective of the current study was to develop and characterize a large animal model of burn-induced SIRS over the course of 2 weeks. Yorkshire swine (n = 16) were randomized to sham controls (n = 4) or 40% total body surface area contact burns (n = 6 at 2 and 14 days post-burn). Blood chemistry and complete blood count analyses were performed at baseline and post-burn days 1, 2, 3, 7, 10, and 14. Upon euthanasia, tissue samples were taken for histopathology. Burns were found to be full thickness and did not re-epithelialize. SIRS was evidenced by increased body temperature, respiration rate, pulse, and white blood cell count for the duration of the experiment. Both acute liver injury and acute kidney injury were induced as determined biochemically and histologically. Histology also revealed atelectasis of the lungs which was associated with increased myeloperoxidase activity. Intestinal structure as well as enterocyte homeostasis was also disrupted. All of these organ abnormalities recovered to varying degrees by 14 days post-burn. We report a unique reproducible large animal model of burn-induced SIRS that can be tailored to specific organ systems for investigation into potential immunomodulatory interventions that prevent organ failure or promote organ recovery after burn injury.
Assessing the influence of scanner background noise on auditory processing. I. An fMRI study comparing three experimental designs with varying degrees of scanner noise

We compared two experimental designs aimed at minimizing the influence of scanner background noise (SBN) on functional MRI (fMRI) of auditory processes with one conventional fMRI design. Ten subjects listened to a series of four one‐syllable words and had to decide whether two of the words were identical. This was contrasted with a no‐stimulus control condition. All three experimental designs had a duration of ∼17 min: 1) a behavior interleaved gradients (BIG; Eden et al. [1999] J Magn Reson Imaging 41:13–20) design (repetition time, TR, = 6 s), where stimuli were presented during the SBN‐free periods between clustered volume acquisitions (CVA); 2) a sparse temporal sampling technique (STsamp; e.g., Gaab et al., [2003] Neuroimage 19:1417–1426) acquiring only one set of slices following each of the stimulations with a 16‐s TR and jittered delay times between stimulus offset and image acquisition; and 3) an event‐related design with continuous scanning (ERcont) using the stimulation design of STsamp but with a 2‐s TR. The results demonstrated increased signal within Heschl's gyrus for the STsamp and BIG‐CVA design in comparison to ERcont as well as differences in the overall functional anatomy among the designs. The possibility to obtain a time course of activation as well as the full recovery of the stimulus‐ and SBN‐induced hemodynamic response function signal and lack of signal suppression from SBN during the STsamp design makes this technique a powerful approach for conducting auditory experiments using fMRI. Practical strengths and limitations of the three auditory acquisition paradigms are discussed. Hum Brain Mapp, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Randomised Controlled Single-Blind Trial of the Efficacy of Reiki at Benefitting Mood and Well-Being

This is a constructive replication of a previous trial conducted by Bowden et al. (2010), where students who had received Reiki demonstrated greater health and mood benefits than those who received no Reiki. The current study examined impact on anxiety/depression. 40 university students—half with high depression and/or anxiety and half with low depression and/or anxiety—were randomly assigned to receive Reiki or to a non-Reiki control group. Participants experienced six 30-minute sessions over a period of two to eight weeks, where they were blind to whether noncontact Reiki was administered as their attention was absorbed in a guided relaxation. The efficacy of the intervention was assessed pre-post intervention and at five-week follow-up by self-report measures of mood, illness symptoms, and sleep. The participants with high anxiety and/or depression who received Reiki showed a progressive improvement in overall mood, which was significantly better at five-week follow-up, while no change was seen in the controls. While the Reiki group did not demonstrate the comparatively greater reduction in symptoms of illness seen in our earlier study, the findings of both studies suggest that Reiki may benefit mood.
Gaping Displays Reveal and Amplify a Mechanically Based Index of Weapon Performance

Physical prowess, a key determinant of fight outcomes, is contingent on whole‐organism performance traits. The advertisement of performance, via display, is poorly understood because it is unclear how information about performance is encoded into display characteristics. Previous studies have shown that weapon performance (i.e., bite force) predicts dominance and reproductive success in male lizards. We tested the hypothesis that gaping displays by adult male collared lizards (Crotaphytus) can provide an index of weapon performance by exposing the major jaw‐adductor muscle complex and that white patches at the mouth corners amplify this index. For territorial adult males, the breadth of the muscle complex, which is not correlated with body size, was a strong predictor of bite force. For nonterritorial yearling males and females, however, measures of body and head size predicted bite force. The patches are highly conspicuous, exhibit UV‐reflecting properties within the visual range of lizards, and provide size‐independent information about bite force only in adult males. We conclude that exposure of the muscle complex during gaping displays can provide rival males with a reliable, body‐size independent, biomechanically based index of weapon performance, an index that the mouth‐corner patches amplify. Indexes that transmit information through mechanistic links to performance are expected to be widespread among animals.
Heterogeneous Enhancement Patterns of Tumor-adjacent Parenchyma at MR Imaging Are Associated with Dysregulated Signaling Pathways and Poor Survival in Breast Cancer.

Purpose To identify the molecular basis of quantitative imaging characteristics of tumor-adjacent parenchyma at dynamic contrast material-enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and to evaluate their prognostic value in breast cancer. Materials and Methods In this institutional review board-approved, HIPAA-compliant study, 10 quantitative imaging features depicting tumor-adjacent parenchymal enhancement patterns were extracted and screened for prognostic features in a discovery cohort of 60 patients. By using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), a radiogenomic map for the tumor-adjacent parenchymal tissue was created and molecular pathways associated with prognostic parenchymal imaging features were identified. Furthermore, a multigene signature of the parenchymal imaging feature was built in a training cohort (n = 126), and its prognostic relevance was evaluated in two independent cohorts (n = 879 and 159). Results One image feature measuring heterogeneity (ie, information measure of correlation) was significantly associated with prognosis (false-discovery rate < 0.1), and at a cutoff of 0.57 stratified patients into two groups with different recurrence-free survival rates (log-rank P = .024). The tumor necrosis factor signaling pathway was identified as the top enriched pathway (hypergeometric P < .0001) among genes associated with the image feature. A 73-gene signature based on the tumor profiles in TCGA achieved good association with the tumor-adjacent parenchymal image feature (R2 = 0.873), which stratified patients into groups regarding recurrence-free survival (log-rank P = .029) and overall survival (log-rank P = .042) in an independent TCGA cohort. The prognostic value was confirmed in another independent cohort (Gene Expression Omnibus GSE 1456), with log-rank P = . 00058 for recurrence-free survival and log-rank P = . 0026 for overall survival. Conclusion Heterogeneous enhancement patterns of tumor-adjacent parenchyma at MR imaging are associated with the tumor necrosis signaling pathway and poor survival in breast cancer. © RSNA, 2017 Online supplemental material is available for this article.
Implantable Left Ventricular Assist Devices

The first bridge to transplant with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) was preformed over 20 years ago. Since that time, the devices have continued to evolve and now patients are being supported with devices as an alternative to transplantation. The primary indication of end-stage heart failure remains the same but increased knowledge about patient selection, the timing of implant, and patient management have contributed to improved outcomes with decreasing adverse events. Multiorgan failure, right ventricular failure, bleeding, infection, thromboembolism, and device malfunction continue to be the most serious threats to long-term survival in these patients. Despite that, patients who do well are now able to be discharged from the hospital and resume relatively normal lives with the devices. The article reviews 3 of the most widely used LVADs for bridge to transplant therapy: the Thoratec; HeartMate vented electric; and the Novacor Left Ventricular Assist System. Indications, mechanism of operation, clinical problems, and out-of-hospital preparation are outlined.
Modeling of Corrosion-Induced Damage in Reinforced Concrete Considering Electro-Mechanical Coupling

This paper presents an electro-mechanical model for evaluating the corrosion-induced damage in reinforced concrete under accelerated conditions. The model consists of structural analysis of concrete and the rebar using the Rigid Body Spring Method and corrosion current analysis with the truss networks model. The electric corrosion process is coupled with concrete cracking conditions by relating current efficiency to local crack width; the predicted radius losses of rebars are used to evaluate concrete crack propagation and residual tensile performance of corroded rebars. The model is validated with the results of accelerated corrosion tests using impressed current and a sodium chloride pond on the concrete cover. Good agreement with the test data is obtained with the proposed model, in terms of corrosion degree and profile, concrete crack pattern, and tensile behavior of corroded rebars. The model offers a corroborative tool with the accelerated corrosion technique to study the mechanical behavior of corroded concrete structures.
An efficient evolutionary programming algorithm using mixed mutation operators for numerical optimization

Evolutionary algorithms often suffer from premature convergence when dealing with complex multi-modal function optimization problems as the fitness landscape may contain numerous local optima. To avoid premature convergence, sufficient amount of genetic diversity within the evolving population needs to be preserved. In this paper we investigate the impact of two different categories of mutation operators on evolutionary programming in an attempt to preserve genetic diversity. Participation of the mutation operators on the evolutionary process is guided by fitness stagnation and localization information of the individuals. A simple experimental analysis has been shown to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme over a test-suite of five classical benchmark functions
Environmental and spatial characterisation of an unknown fauna using DNA sequencing – an example with Himalayan Hydropsychidae (Insecta: Trichoptera)

Summary Ecological studies of freshwater biota in understudied regions are often obstructed by poor taxonomic knowledge. We posit that molecular tools can help alleviate this issue and present an example where we combined molecular tools, environmental data and ecological statistics to investigate the distribution and community ecology of an unknown fauna of hydropsychid caddisflies along altitudinal gradients in four Himalayan river systems of Central and Eastern Nepal. A total of 484 larval specimens from 34 tributaries were examined. Phylogenetic analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) and the nuclear ribosomal RNA 28S were used to delineate molecular operational taxonomic units (MOTUs) applying three analytical methods: general mixed Yule-coalescent (GMYC) model, Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery (ABGD) and Bayesian Phylogenetics and Phylogeography (BPP). Spatial distributional patterns and potential differences in ecological niches among MOTUs were statistically tested using regression and correlation approaches. Further, we examined the data for signs of non-random structure in MOTU communities. MOTU diversity within the family of Hydropsychidae was generally high but varied across evaluated gene fragments and slightly among delineation methods. Yet, the subsequent evaluation of environmental and spatial drivers and resulting distributional patterns were highly consistent among the different MOTU estimates. Within each river system, we found community composition varied greatly along the altitudinal gradients, with many MOTUs associated with specific altitudinal ranges. Prevalent MOTU turnover at the river system scale indicated high β-diversity in the hydropsychid community leading to high degrees of regional endemism. In the Langtang river system, we found fewer MOTU co-occurrences than expected by chance. These results highlight the utility of DNA-based approaches using variable genetic markers (mitochondrial or ribosomal nuclear) for primary biodiversity assessment of poorly studied groups or regions. Our study further shows that DNA-based biodiversity measures are suitable for downstream applications, such as exploring fundamental questions in stream ecology.
Deficiency of the Complement Component 3 but Not Factor B Aggravates Staphylococcus aureus Septic Arthritis in Mice

ABSTRACT The complement system plays an essential role in the innate immune response and protection against bacterial infections. However, detailed knowledge regarding the role of complement in Staphylococcus aureus septic arthritis is still largely missing. In this study, we elucidated the roles of selected complement proteins in S. aureus septic arthritis. Mice lacking the complement component 3 (C3 −/−), complement factor B (fB −/−), and receptor for C3-derived anaphylatoxin C3a (C3aR −/−) and wild-type (WT) control mice were intravenously or intra-articularly inoculated with S. aureus strain Newman. The clinical course of septic arthritis, as well as histopathological and radiological changes in joints, was assessed. After intravenous inoculation, arthritis severity and frequency were significantly higher in C3 −/− mice than in WT controls, whereas fB −/− mice displayed intermediate arthritis severity and frequency. This was in accordance with both histopathological and radiological findings. C3, but not fB, deficiency was associated with greater weight loss, more frequent kidney abscesses, and higher bacterial burden in kidneys. S. aureus opsonized with C3 −/− sera displayed decreased uptake by mouse peritoneal macrophages compared with bacteria opsonized with WT or fB −/− sera. C3aR deficiency had no effect on the course of hematogenous S. aureus septic arthritis. We conclude that C3 deficiency increases susceptibility to hematogenous S. aureus septic arthritis and impairs host bacterial clearance, conceivably due to diminished opsonization and phagocytosis of S. aureus.
Individual and work-related risk factors for musculoskeletal pain among computer workers in Nigeria

ABSTRACT We investigated the prevalence of musculoskeletal pain (MSP) and the association of 1-month prevalence with individual and work-related factors among commercial typists in Enugu. Participants responded to a questionnaire about occurrences of MSP and a 75.6% (242/320) response rate was achieved. Prevalence was summarized in frequencies and percentages while associations between MSPs and risk factors were explored using chi-square. MSP was most common in the low back (58.3%), and low back pain limited 51.7% from activities between 1 and 30 days. Advancing age was significantly associated with MSP in the low back (x2 = 19.885; p = .001), neck (x2 = 28.309; p < .001), shoulder (x2 = 13.122; p = .011), but not wrist/hand (p = .075). Working 1–5 years in this job was associated with increasing prevalence of MSP in all body regions studied. Lesser job control was associated with increased prevalence of wrist/hand pain. Prevalence of MSDs among computer operators in Enugu, Nigeria, is high and highlights the importance of workplace intervention.
Relation between the Level of Soluble Endothelial Protein C Receptor and the Risk of Deep Venous Thrombosis in Sudanese

Background: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) may lead to serious complication; the pulmonary embolism; one of the most serious conditions that cause morbidity and mortality worldwide. sEPCR circulates in the plasma and has high affinity to bind protein C and activated protein C (APC). This binding interferes with the anticoagulant function of APC and results in increased risk for DVT. The aim of this study is to explore the role of sEPCR as a risk factor for DVT in Sudanese individuals. Methods: A total of 100 Sudanese DVT patients and 100 apparently healthy individuals were recruited for this study. EDTA-anticoagulated venous blood samples were collected from all participants. Plasma sEPCR levels were measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). All results were analyzed using SPSS. Results: The plasma level of sEPCR was higher in DVT group than in healthy individuals, while male patients showed higher level when compared to females. Age correlates positively with sEPCR, whilst BMI and ethnicity showed no effect on the level of sEPCR. Individuals in the top quartiles of showed to increased risk of DVT when compared to those in the lower quartile. Conclusion: It can be concluded that elevated sEPCR level increases the risk to develop DVT in Sudanese. The level of the soluble receptor is influenced by the gender of individual more than by his/her ethnicity or body mass index. Results are also indicative of a much higher risk in those with sEPCR level more than 120 ng/ml when compared to those with lower levels.
Maternal diabetes impairs the initiation of meiosis in murine female germ cells

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is characterized by an initial diagnosis of glucose intolerance during pregnancy. There is increasing evidence supporting the association between GDM and the inhibited development of several organs in offspring. In the present study, a murine GDM model was established in mice by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin to evaluate the effect of maternal diabetes on the initiation of meiosis in female germ cells of offspring. The effect of GDM on the initiation of meiosis in the offspring was evaluated by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, flow cytometry and hematoxylin and eosin staining. The results showed that, compared with the control group, fetal ovary growth was inhibited, the expression levels of meiosis-specific genes, stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8, synaptonemal complex protein, and DNA meiotic recombinase were inhibited, and the number of primordial/primary follicles was reduced in the GDM group. These may have been induced by an increase of apoptosis and inhibition of growth, as the mRNA levels of p21, a vital G1 cell cycle inhibitor, and apoptotic genes were upregulated, whereas the expression levels of genes important in folliculogenesis were decreased in the GDM group. In conclusion, the data obtained in the present study suggested that maternal diabetes may impair the initiation of meiosis and ovarian growth via growth inhibition, cell cycle arrest and the induction of apoptosis.
Acute-Phase Inflammatory Response to Single-Bout HIIT and Endurance Training: A Comparative Study

Objective. This study compared acute and late effect of single-bout endurance training (ET) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on the plasma levels of four inflammatory cytokines and C-reactive protein and insulin-like growth factor 1. Design. Cohort study with repeated-measures design. Methods. Seven healthy untrained volunteers completed a single bout of ET and HIIT on a cycle ergometer. ET and HIIT sessions were held in random order and at least 7 days apart. Blood was drawn before the interventions and 30 min and 2 days after the training sessions. Plasma samples were analyzed with ELISA for the interleukins (IL), IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Statistical analysis was with Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Results. ET led to both a significant acute and long-term inflammatory response with a significant decrease at 30 minutes after exercise in the IL-6/IL-10 ratio (−20%; p = 0.047) and a decrease of MCP-1 (−17.9%; p = 0.03). Conclusion. This study demonstrates that ET affects the inflammatory response more adversely at 30 minutes after exercise compared to HIIT. However, this is compensated by a significant decrease in MCP-1 at two days associated with a reduced risk of atherosclerosis.
Analysis of alkaloids from different chemical groups by different liquid chromatography methods

AbstractAlkaloids are biologically active compounds widely used as pharmaceuticals and synthesised as secondary methabolites in plants. Many of these compounds are strongly toxic. Therefore, they are often subject of scientific interests and analysis. Since alkaloids — basic compounds appear in aqueous solutions as ionized and unionized forms, they are difficult for chromatographic separation for peak tailing, poor systems efficiency, poor separation and poor column-to-column reproducibility. For this reason it is necessity searching of more suitable chromatographic systems for analysis of the compounds.In this article we present an overview on the separation of selected alkaloids from different chemical groups by liquid chromatography thus indicating the range of useful methods now available for alkaloid analysis. Different selectivity, system efficiency and peaks shape may be achieved in different LC methods separations by use of alternative stationary phases: silica, alumina, chemically bonded stationary phases, cation exchange phases, or by varying nonaqueous or aqueous mobile phase (containing different modifier, different buffers at different pH, ion-pairing or silanol blocker reagents). Developments in TLC (NP and RP systems), HPLC (NP, RP, HILIC, ion-exchange) are presented and the advantages of each method for alkaloids analysis are discussed.