Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Preterm low birthweight and the role of oral bacteria

Preterm and low birthweight (PTLBW) continues to be a major cause of mortality and morbidity across the world. In recent years, maternal periodontal disease has been implicated as a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes. There is conflicting evidence to support such an outcome as illustrated by descriptive, case control and randomised controlled trials involving pregnant women from across the world, using different measurement tools to determine the level of periodontal disease. Whilst considering the literature, there is evidence for both arguments, based on the effect of periodontal inflammatory by products. Bacteria associated with periodontal disease are not dissimilar to those known to be associated with genito-urinary bacterial infections and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Several groups have demonstrated the apparent translocation of Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella nigrescens, Prevotella intermedia, Porphyromonus gingivalis, Treponema denticola to the foetal placental unit whereby a maternal or foetal response has been detected resulting in premature birth or low birthweight. The normal process of parturition involves a cascade of events including a build-up of inflammatory mediators as linked to inflammation, whereby the maternal environment becomes hostile and threatens the well-being of the infant, and the foetus expelled. The question remains therefore, is there a greater risk of delivering a PTLBW infant when the mother has detectable periodontal disease, or is the release of inflammatory mediators and their translocation via the haematogenous route sufficient to induce a poor pregnancy outcome? The data investigated would suggest that there is a positive outcome when certain oral gram-negative bacteria create a cumulative effect sufficient to trigger early delivery, which represents the final straw to result in preterm or low birthweight delivery. There is equally sufficient epidemiological evidence that does not support this outcome, but it is agreed that maintaining oral health during pregnancy is beneficial to the mother and her infant.
A Geometric Algorithm for Scalable Multiple Kernel Learning

We present a geometric formulation of the Multiple Kernel Learning (MKL) problem. To do so, we reinterpret the problem of learning kernel weights as searching for a kernel that maximizes the minimum (kernel) distance between two convex polytopes. This interpretation combined with novel structural insights from our geometric formulation allows us to reduce the MKL problem to a simple optimization routine that yields provable convergence as well as quality guarantees. As a result our method scales efficiently to much larger data sets than most prior methods can handle. Empirical evaluation on eleven datasets shows that we are significantly faster and even compare favorably with a uniform unweighted combination of kernels.
Pretreatment With P2Y12 Inhibitors in Non–ST-Segment–Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome Is Clinically Justified

> My advice is to never do tomorrow what you can do today. Procrastination is the thief of time.1 > > Charles Dickens (1812–1870) The modulation of the P2Y12 receptor, carried out in the late 1990s with ticlopidine in patients with recent transient or focal cerebral or retinal ischemia2 or with clopidogrel in patients with recent ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction (MI), or symptomatic peripheral arterial disease3 resulted in a significant reduction in ischemic fatal or nonfatal end points compared with aspirin monotherapy. Response by Collet et al on p 1903 P2Y12 inhibitors have subsequently become the reference therapy in addition to aspirin for the prevention of acute and subacute stent thrombosis in patients undergoing coronary stent-based intervention. This dual-pathway antiplatelet therapy was shown to be more effective than aspirin alone and more effective and safer than aspirin and vitamin K antagonists.4–6 In this context, the achievement of more potent and consistent inhibition of the target receptor through prasugrel7 or ticagrelor8 has resulted in further improvements of the ischemic outcomes. Finally, clopidogrel9 and ticagrelor,8 but not prasugrel,7,10 have been shown to provide additional ischemic benefit on top of aspirin in patients with acute coronary syndromes, regardless of the final revascularization strategy. In light of the multiple chemical and pharmacological differences existing between the 3 currently available oral P2Y12 inhibitors, including potency,11 consistency and reversibility of the P2Y12 inhibition,12 binding site in the target receptor, and off-target effects,13,14 caution should be used in interpreting the value of these compounds as class effects. This concern is further corroborated by apparent discrepancies in study results noted throughout head-to-head comparisons.7,8 Because the clinical value of antithrombotic relies largely on the balance between ischemic …
Evaluating the benefits of an extended memory hierarchy for parallel streamline algorithms

The increasing cost of achieving sufficient I/O bandwidth for high end supercomputers is leading to architectural evolutions in the I/O subsystem space. Currently popular designs create a staging area on each compute node for data output via solid state drives (SSDs), local hard drives, or both. In this paper, we investigate whether these extensions to the memory hierarchy, primarily intended for computer simulations that produce data, can also benefit visualization and analysis programs that consume data. Some algorithms, such as those that read the data only once and store the data in primary memory, can not draw obvious benefit from the presence of a deeper memory hierarchy. However, algorithms that read data repeatedly from disk are excellent candidates, since the repeated reads can be accelerated by caching the first read of a block on the new resources (i.e. SSDs or hard drives). We study such an algorithm, streamline computation, and quantify the benefits it can derive.
Stochastic Variance Reduction for Nonconvex Optimization

We study nonconvex finite-sum problems and analyze stochastic variance reduced gradient (SVRG) methods for them. SVRG and related methods have recently surged into prominence for convex optimization given their edge over stochastic gradient descent (SGD); but their theoretical analysis almost exclusively assumes convexity. In contrast, we prove non-asymptotic rates of convergence (to stationary points) of SVRG for nonconvex optimization, and show that it is provably faster than SGD and gradient descent. We also analyze a subclass of nonconvex problems on which SVRG attains linear convergence to the global optimum. We extend our analysis to mini-batch variants of SVRG, showing (theoretical) linear speedup due to mini-batching in parallel settings.
Color Demosaicing in Plenoptic Cameras

A plenoptic camera captures the 4D radiance about a scene. Recent practical solutions mount a microlens array on top of a commodity SLR to directly acquire these rays. However, they suffer from low resolution as hundreds of thousands of views need to be captured in a single shot. In this paper, we develop a simple but effective technique for improving the image resolution of the plenoptic camera by maneuvering the demosaicing process. We first show that the traditional solution by demosaicing each individual microlens image and then blending them for view synthesis is suboptimal. In particular, this demosaicing process often suffers from aliasing artifacts, and it damages high frequency information recorded by each microlens image hence degrades the image quality. We instead propose to demosaic the synthesized view at the rendering stage. Specifically, we first transform the radiance to the desired focal plane and then apply frequency domain plenoptic resampling. A full resolution color filtered image is then created by performing a 2D integral projection from the reparameterized radiance. Finally, we conduct demosacing to obtain the color result. We show that our solution can achieve visible resolution enhancement on dynamic refocusing and depth-assisted deep focus rendering.
The spleen and skin wound healing in Xenopus adults

In most vertebrates, the regenerative capacity to restore lost/damage tissues to original structure and functionality decreases at some time during ontogenesis. To evaluate the role of the acquired immunity in the decline of regenerative potential, we examined the cellular responses elicited in the spleen during skin repair in Xenopus adults. Modifications in the architecture were found to be induced and were remarkable 14 days postinjury when the spleen increased significantly in size. In white pulp, the periarteriolar lymphoid sheaths were associated with follicles having central light zones, morphologically similar to germinal centers. With the progress of healing, pigment‐containing cells were seen to accumulate in both white and red pulp regions. Moreover, compared to controls, the cells immunoreactive to anti‐cytokines (TNF‐α, TGF‐β1) and ‐iNOS increased from the first days after wounding. The 14th day, the positive cells formed a dense network of reticular cells in central regions of lymphoid follicles and more frequent reactive leukocytes were detected within the red pulp. A higher number of lymphoid cells immunostained with anti‐CD3ε were also observed in the perifollicular zone. The results suggest that the spleen of adult frogs is involved in skin wound healing with the expansion of lymphoid compartments. J. Morphol. 277:888–895, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Shortening baroreflex delay in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients -- an unknown effect of β-blockers.

AIMS Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy and impaired diastolic and systolic function. Abnormal sympathetic-parasympathetic balance is a potential stimulus for left ventricular hypertrophy in HCM patients. β-Blockers are routinely used in HCM for their strong negative inotropic effect; however, these drugs also influence the sympathetic-parasympathetic balance. This study aimed to determine the autonomic control of the cardiovascular system and the autonomic effects of β-blockers in HCM patients treated or untreated with β-blockers. METHODS Among 51 HCM outpatients (18-70 years old; 29 men) there were 19 individuals with no medication and 32 subjects treated with a β-blocker. Fourteen age- and gender-matched (23-70 years old; nine men) healthy volunteers were enrolled in the control group. Continuous, non-invasive finger blood pressure was recorded during supine rest for 30 min. Autonomic regulation of the cardiovascular system was measured by heart rate variability and spontaneous baroreflex function (cross-correlation sequence method). RESULTS The mean pulse interval, time domain and spectral measures of heart rate variability and baroreflex sensitivity were comparable between HCM patients, treated or not with β-blockers, and the control group. However, the delay of the baroreflex was significantly longer in HCM patients who were not treated with β-blockers [2.0 (1.6-2.3) s] in comparison with HCM patients receiving β-blockers [1.4 (1.1-1.8) s; P = 0.0072] or control subjects [1.2 (0.8-1.8) s; P = 0.0025]. This delay did not differ between HCM patients treated with β-blockers and the control group. CONCLUSIONS Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy not treated with β-blockers is accompanied by prolonged baroreflex delay. The use of β-blockers normalizes this delay.
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist Trigger: The Way to Eliminate Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome—A 20-Year Experience

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) trigger instead of human chorionic gonadotropin in the context of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) prevention has been used for >20 years. In its first decade it did not gain popularity because it cannot work in GnRHa-based ovarian stimulation protocols. The introduction of GnRH antagonists has revolutionized our ability to eliminate OHSS completely because patients at high risk for OHSS can be triggered with GnRHa. This has been documented in randomized prospective studies, in which none of the patients randomized to the agonist trigger arm developed OHSS. In other words, GnRHa proved to be a potent tool that, truly remarkably, never fails. Although there is some debate concerning the clinical outcome of these cycles, data so far indicate that aggressive luteal support can ensure a good outcome. Moreover, the large number of frozen embryos in these cycles results in excellent per-oocyte retrieval pregnancy rates. In summary, GnRHa ovulatory trigger is the ultimate tool for complete OHSS prevention. GnRH antagonist-based ovarian stimulation protocols should be considered in OHSS high-risk patients so GnRHa trigger can be used if needed.
The effects of Cetraria islandica and Pseudevernia furfuracea extracts in normal and diabetic rats

Lichens are symbiotic organisms composed of a fungus joined to a photosynthesizing partner that can be either an alga or a cyanobacterium. They can be used as a novel bioresource for natural antioxidants. However, there is also a need for further studies to validate the lichens used in medicinal remedies. This study covers a previously unrecognized effects of Cetraria islandica (CIAE) and Pseudevernia furfuracea (PFAE) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. In experimental design, control or diabetic rats were either untreated or treated with aqueous lichen extracts (250–500 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks starting at 72 h after STZ injection. On day 14, animals were anesthetized, metabolic and biochemical parameters were appreciated between control and treatment groups. The histopathology of kidney was examined using four different staining methods: hematoxylin–eosin (H&E), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), Masson trichrome and Congo red. Our experimental data showed that increasing doses of CIAE and PFAE did not have any detrimental effects on the studied parameters and the malondialdehyde level of kidney. CIAE extract showed prominent results compared to doses of PFAE extract for antioxidant capacity. However, the protective effect of CIAE extract was inadequate on diabetes-induced disorders and kidney damages. Moreover, animals subjected to diabetes mellitus (DM) therapy did not benefit unfortunately from the usage of increasing lichen doses due to their unchanged antioxidant activity to tissue. The results obtained in present study suggested that CIAE and PFAE are safe but the power of these is limited because of the intensive oxidative stress in kidney of type 1 diabetic rats. It is also implied that CIAE extract is especially suitable for different administration routes in DM.
Processing of Pheromone Information in Related Species of Heliothine Moths

In heliothine moths, the male-specific olfactory system is activated by a few odor molecules, each of which is associated with an easily identifiable glomerulus in the primary olfactory center of the brain. This arrangement is linked to two well-defined behavioral responses, one ensuring attraction and mating behavior by carrying information about pheromones released by conspecific females and the other inhibition of attraction via signal information emitted from heterospecifics. The chance of comparing the characteristic properties of pheromone receptor proteins, male-specific sensory neurons and macroglomerular complex (MGC)-units in closely-related species is especially intriguing. Here, we review studies on the male-specific olfactory system of heliothine moths with particular emphasis on five closely related species, i.e., Heliothis virescens, Heliothis subflexa, Helicoverpa zea, Helicoverpa assulta and Helicoverpa armigera.
Dual identity among gay Asian Pacific Islander men

This paper examines the complexity associated with having two potentially conflicting social identities in the USA: being Asian Pacific Islander and being gay. Twenty‐five gay Asian Pacific Islander men completed individual interviews regarding their racial and sexual identities and the intersection between the two. Data analysis revealed diversity in ways by which individuals integrated their dual identities and expressed themselves to others; pathways by which individuals combined their race and sexuality into a coherent self‐concept; and strategies for maintaining harmony and balance in self understanding. Findings emphasized the role of situational factors in determining the salience and relevance of each component of identity. Their experiences are discussed in the light of theoretical models of psychosocial development and frameworks for understanding self‐concept complexity.
Beta-thalassemia intermedia: an overview.

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Image Clustering and Retrieval using Image Mining Techniques

Image retrieval is the basic requirement task in the present scenario. Content Based Image Retrieval is the popular image retrieval system by which the target image to be retrieved based on the useful features of the given image. In other end, image mining is the arising concept which can be used to extract potential information from the general collection of images. Target or close Images can be retrieved in a little fast if it is clustered in a right manner. In this paper, the concepts of CBIR and Image mining have been combined and a new clustering technique has been introduced in order to increase the speed of the image retrieval system.
Field-scale monitoring of the long-term impact and sustainability of drainage water reuse on the west side of California's San Joaquin Valley.

Diminishing freshwater resources have brought attention to the reuse of degraded water as a water resource rather than a disposal problem. Drainage water from tile-drained, irrigated agricultural land is degraded water that is often in large supply, but the long-term impact and sustainability of its reuse on soil is unknown. Similarly, nothing is known of the ramifications of terminating drainage water reuse. The objective of this study is (i) to monitor the long-term impact on soil chemical properties and thereby the sustainability of drainage water reuse on a marginally productive, saline-sodic, 32.4 ha field located on the west side of California's productive San Joaquin Valley and (ii) to assess spatially what happens to soil when drainage water reuse is terminated. The monitoring and assessment were based on spatial chemical data for soil collected during 10 years of irrigation with drainage water followed by 2 years of no applied irrigation water (only rainfall). Geo-referenced measurements of apparent soil electrical conductivity (EC(a)) were used to direct the soil sampling design to characterize spatial variability of impacted soil properties. Chemical analyses of soil samples were used (i) to characterize the spatial variability of salinity, Na, B, and Mo, which were previously identified as critical to the yield and quality of Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon (l.) Pers. ) grown for livestock consumption and (ii) to monitor their change during the 12 year study. Soil samples were taken at 0.3 m increments to a depth of 1.2 m at each of 40 sample sites on five occasions: August 1999, April 2002, November 2004, August 2009, and May 2011. Drainage water varying in salinity (1.8-16.3 dS m(-1)), SAR (5.2-52.4), Mo (80-400 μg L(-1)), and B (0.4-15.1 mg L(-1)) was applied from July 2000 to June 2009. Results indicate that salts, Na, Mo, and B were leached from the root zone causing a significant improvement in soil quality from 1999 to 2009. Salinity and SAR returned to original levels or higher in less than two years after termination of irrigation. Boron and Mo showed significant increases. Long-term sustainability of drainage water reuse was supported by the results, but once application of irrigation water was terminated, the field quickly returned to its original saline-sodic condition.
Reduction of X-Ray Induced DNA Double-Strand Breaks in Blood Lymphocytes During Coronary CT Angiography Using High-Pitch Spiral Data Acquisition With Prospective ECG-Triggering

Objectives:Purpose of this study was to compare the effect of high-pitch spiral data acquisition with prospective electrocardiography (ECG)-triggering on the x-ray induced DNA damages to blood lymphocytes with commonly used low-pitch spiral scans. Materials and Methods:Thirty four patients underwent coronary computed tomography angiography either using high-pitch spiral data acquisition (n = 15; dual-source computed tomography (CT) scanner, 38.4 mm collimation, 100–120 kV, 320–456 mAs/rotation, pitch value 3.2–3.4) or using a low-pitch protocol (n = 19; dual-source CT scanner, 19.2 mm collimation, 120 kV, 330–438 mAs/rotation, pitch 0.2–0.39, ECG-based tube current modulation). Blood samples were obtained before and 30 minutes after CT. Lymphocytes were isolated, stained against the phosphorylated histone variant &ggr;H2AX, and DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) were visualized using fluorescence microscopy. Radiation dose to the blood was estimated by relating in vivo DSB levels to values of in vitro irradiated blood samples (50 mGy). Dose length product was registered as provided by the patient protocol. Results:Total dose length product ranged from 101 to 237 (median 112) mGy cm in high-pitch and from 524 to 1283 (median 1025) mGy cm in low-pitch scans (P < 0.0001). The median CT induced DSB level 30 minutes after exposure was significantly lower after high-pitch (0.04 DSBs/cell, range 0.02–0.10 DSBs/cell) compared with low-pitch scans (0.39 DSBs/cell, 0.22–0.71 DSBs/cell, P < 0.0001). Both DSB levels and radiation dose to the blood showed a significant correlation to the dose length product (r = 0.82, P < 0.0001). The radiation dose to the blood was significantly reduced in the high-pitch (median 3.1, range 2.0–8.1 mGy) compared with the low-pitch group (median 26.9; range 14.2–44.9 mGy, P < 0.0001). Conclusions:Prospectively ECG-triggered high-pitch spiral data acquisition can considerably reduce the radiation dose to the blood in coronary CT angiography as compared with low pitch protocols.
A Revisit to Support Vector Data Description ( SVDD )

Support vector data description (SVDD), proposed by [1], is a useful method for outlier detection. Its model is obtained by solving the dual optimization problem. In this paper, we point out some issues in their derivations. For example, they formulate SVDD as a non-convex problem and derive the dual problem only under some parameter settings. Given the wide use of SVDD, it is important to address these issues. In this paper, we consider a convex equivalent of SVDD, rigorously derive the dual problem, discuss additional properties, and investigate some novel extensions of SVDD.