Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Enantiospecific Three‐Component Alkylation of Furan and Indole

Abstract Furan‐ and indole‐derived boronate complexes react with alkyl iodides under radical (photoredox) or polar (SN2) conditions to generate three‐component alkylation products with high efficiency and complete stereospecificity. The methodology allows the incorporation of versatile functional groups such as nitriles, ketones, esters, sulfones, and amides, providing rapid access to complex chiral heteroaromatic molecules in enantioenriched form. Interestingly, while indolyl boronate complexes react directly with alkyl halides in a polar pathway, furyl boronates require photoredox catalysis. Careful mechanistic analysis revealed that the boronate complex not only serves as a substrate in the reaction but also acts as a reductive quencher for the excited state of the photocatalyst.
Guanine Nucleotide Effects on 8‐Cyclopentyl‐1,3‐[3H]Dipropylxanthine Binding to Membrane‐Bound and Solubilized A1 Adenosine Receptors of Rat Brain

Abstract: The effects of guanine nucleotides on binding of 8‐cyclopentyl‐1,3‐[3H]dipropylxanthine ([3H]DPCPX), a highly selective A1 adenosine receptor antagonist, have been investigated in rat brain membranes and solubilized A1 receptors. GTP, which induces uncoupling of receptors from guanine nucleotide binding proteins, increased binding of [3H]DPCPX in a concentration‐dependent manner. The rank order of potency for different guanine nucleotides for increasing [3H]DPCPX binding was the same as for guanine nucleotide‐induced inhibition of agonist binding. Therefore, a role for a guanine nucleotide binding protein, e.g., Gi, in the regulation of antagonist binding is suggested. This was confirmed by inactivation of Gi by N‐ethylmaleimide (NEM) treatment of membranes, which resulted in an increase in [3H]DPCPX binding similar to that seen with addition of GTP. Kinetic and equilibrium binding studies showed that the GTP‐ or NEM‐induced increase in antagonist binding was not caused by an affinity change of A1 receptors for [3H]DPCPX but by an increased Bmax value. Guanine nucleotides had similar effects on membrane‐bound and solubilized receptors, with the effects in the solubilized system being more pronounced. In the absence of GTP, when most receptors are in a high‐affinity state for agonists, only a few receptors are labeled by [3H]DPCPX. It is suggested that [3H]DPCPX binding is inhibited when receptors are coupled to Gi. Therefore, uncoupling of A1 receptors from Gi by guanine nucleotides or by inactivation of Gi with NEM results in an increased antagonist binding.
Race affects SVR12 in a large and ethnically diverse hepatitis C‐infected patient population following treatment with direct‐acting antivirals: Analysis of a single‐center Department of Veterans Affairs cohort

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major cause of chronic liver disease. HCV cure has been linked to improved patient outcomes. In the era of direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs), HCV cure has become the goal, as defined by sustained virological response 12 weeks (SVR12) after completion of therapy. Historically, African‐Americans have had lower SVR12 rates compared to White people in the interferon era, which had been attributed to the high prevalence of non‐CC interleukin 28B (IL28B) type. Less is known about the association between race/ethnicity and SVR12 in DAA‐treated era. The aim of the study is to evaluate the predictors of SVR12 in a diverse, single‐center Veterans Affairs population. We conducted a retrospective study of patients undergoing HCV therapy with DAAs from 2014 to 2016 at the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System. We performed a multivariable logistic regression analysis to determine predictors of SVR12, adjusting for age, HCV genotype, DAA regimen and duration, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status, fibrosis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) fibrosis score, homelessness, mental health, and adherence. Our cohort included 1068 patients, out of which 401 (37.5%) were White people and 400 (37.5%) were African‐American. Genotype 1 was the most common genotype (83.9%, N = 896). In the adjusted models, race/ethnicity and the presence of fibrosis were statistically significant predictors of non‐SVR. African‐Americans had 57% lower odds for reaching SVR12 (adj.OR = 0.43, 95% CI = 1.5‐4.1) compared to White people. Advanced fibrosis (adj.OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.26‐0.68) was also a significant predictor of non‐SVR. In a single‐center VA population on DAAs, African‐Americans were less likely than White people to reach SVR12 when adjusting for covariates.
Model-Based Identification and Control of a One-Legged Hopping Robot

Spring-mass models are well established tools for the analysis and control of legged locomotion. Among the alternatives, spring-loaded inverted pendulum (SLIP) model has shown to be a very accurate descriptor of animal locomotion. Despite its wide use, the SLIP model includes non-integrable stance dynamics that prevent analytical solutions for its equations of motion. Fortunately, there are approximate analytical solutions for different SLIP variants. However, the practicality of such approximations are mostly tested on simulation studies with a few notable exceptions. This thesis extends upon a recent approximation to a hip torque actuated dissipative SLIP (TD-SLIP) model that uses torque actuation to compensate for energy losses. Systematic experiments for careful assessment of the predictive performance of the approximate analytical solution is presented on a well-instrumented one-legged hopping robot which is revised to enhance compatibility and accuracy of the system. Electronic structure of the robot is modified according to TD-SLIP model such that robot uses a real-time operating system to increase processing speed. Using the parameters and results generated by the predictive performance of the approximate analytical solution, a model-based controller is designed and implemented on the robot platform to generate a stable closed-loop running behaviour on the one legged hoping robot platform. In addition, ground reaction forces during the stance phase on the experimental platform is investigated and compared with the human running and the traditional SLIP model data to understand if torque-actuated models approximate natural locomotion better than traditional model.
Gynecologic Surgery: Preoperative Assessment With Ultrasound

Ultrasonography, especially 3D, is essential in the diagnosis and preoperative evaluation of gynecologic surgeries and is important in surgical planning and counseling of patients. In addition, it is useful during hysteroscopic procedures, particularly difficult Asherman syndrome cases, resection of transverse vaginal septum, and treatment of hematometria. 3D ultrasound is especially helpful for fibroid mapping as the simultaneous visualization of the endometrium and myometrium with the coronal view is possible, it can be done by the gynecologist and at a lower cost than an magnetic resonance imaging. The ability to visualize with ultrasound during surgery may reduce complications and eliminate the use of laparoscopy.
Childhood Stuttering: Where Are We and Where Are We Going?

Abstract Remarkable progress has been made over the past two decades in expanding our understanding of the behavioral, peripheral physiologic, and central neurophysiologic bases of stuttering in early childhood. It is clear that stuttering is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by atypical development of speech motor planning and execution networks. The speech motor system must interact in complex ways with neural systems mediating language and other cognitive and emotional processes. During the time when stuttering typically appears and follows its path to either recovery or persistence, all of these neurobehavioral systems are undergoing rapid and dramatic developmental changes. We summarize our current understanding of the various developmental trajectories relevant for the understanding of stuttering in early childhood. We also present theoretical and experimental approaches that we believe will be optimal for even more rapid progress toward developing better and more targeted treatment for stuttering in the preschool children who are more likely to persist in stuttering.
Heightened circulating levels of antimicrobial peptides in tuberculosis—Diabetes co-morbidity and reversal upon treatment

Background The association of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with tuberculosis—diabetes comorbidity (PTB-DM) is not well understood. Methods To study the association of AMPs with PTB-DM, we examined the systemic levels of cathelicidin (LL37), human beta defensin– 2 (HBD2), human neutrophil peptides 1–3, (HNP1-3) and granulysin in individuals with either PTB-DM, PTB, latent TB (LTB) or no TB infection (NTB). Results Circulating levels of cathelicidin and HBD2 were significantly higher and granulysin levels were significantly lower in PTB-DM compared to PTB, LTB or NTB, while the levels of HNP1-3 were significantly higher in PTB-DM compared to LTB or NTB individuals. Moreover, the levels of cathelicidin and/or HBD2 were significantly higher in PTB-DM or PTB individuals with bilateral and cavitary disease and also exhibited a significant positive relationship with bacterial burden. Cathelidin, HBD2 and HNP1-3 levels exhibited a positive relationship with HbA1c and/or fasting blood glucose levels. Finally, anti-tuberculosis therapy resulted in significantly diminished levels of cathelicidin, HBD2, granulysin and significantly enhanced levels of HNP1-3 and granulysin in PTB-DM and/or PTB individuals. Conclusion Therefore, our data demonstrate that PTB-DM is associated with markedly enhanced levels of AMPs and diminished levels of granulysin.
Reinforcing the Functionality of Mononuclear Phagocyte System to Control Tuberculosis

The mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS) constitutes dendritic cells, monocytes, and macrophages. This system contributes to various functions that are essential for maintaining homeostasis, activation of innate immunity, and bridging it with the adaptive immunity. Consequently, MPS is highly important in bolstering immunity against the pathogens. However, MPS is the frontline cells in destroying Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), yet the bacterium prefers to reside in the hostile environment of macrophages. Therefore, it may be very interesting to study the struggle between Mtb and MPS to understand the outcome of the disease. In an event when MPS predominates Mtb, the host remains protected. By contrast, the situation becomes devastating when the pathogen tames and tunes the host MPS, which ultimately culminates into tuberculosis (TB). Hence, it becomes extremely crucial to reinvigorate MPS functionality to overwhelm Mtb and eliminate it. In this article, we discuss the strategies to bolster the function of MPS by exploiting the molecules associated with the innate immunity and highlight the mechanisms involved to overcome the Mtb-induced suppression of host immunity. In future, such approaches may provide an insight to develop immunotherapeutics to treat TB.
Mycobacterioses in dogs and cats from Buenos Aires, Argentina

Mycobacterioses can produce nonspecific clinical signs in dogs and cats that make diagnosis difficult. Furthermore, the full characterization of mycobacterial agents is not always possible or practical. We characterized mycobacteria detected through cytology in 12 dogs and 7 cats with generalized clinical signs from the province of Buenos Aires in Argentina. In dogs, molecular testing confirmed the presence of Mycobacterium avium subsp. hominissuis (MAH) in 8 cases and M. fortuitum in 1 case. All dogs were Miniature Schnauzers, suggesting that this breed may be more susceptible to M. avium than other dog breeds. The cat isolates were 2 M. bovis, 1 M. fortuitum, and 1 MAH. Mycobacterial interspersed repetitive unit–variable-number tandem repeat patterns suggested possible links with cattle, swine, and humans studied previously in Argentina. The results show that pets may act as susceptible hosts with the potential risk of transmitting the infection to humans and other animals.
Concepts and experiments for characterizing plastic anisotropy of round bars, wires and tubes

Starting from axial and radial anisotropy defined in previous publications, concepts for the description of plastic anisotropy of materials having axisymmetric properties (round bars, tubes, wires) are defined. A maximum of three - in most cases even less - independent parameters are needed. For solid materials like round bars it is recommended to use the axial-radial and the axial-tangential anisotropy as independent quantities for obtaining the yield locus according to Hill's quadratic yield criterion. Experiments for determining these parameters are described. For tubes, however, in most cases only the radial-tangential anisotropy can be determined from the transverse contraction in tensile tests. Hence the yield locus can only be obtained in the approximation of the Hosford-Backofen yield criterion. Effects of the anisotropy parameters on metal forming processes are discussed.
Meta-analysis: effectiveness of forced-air warming for prevention of perioperative hypothermia in surgical patients.

AIM The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of forced-air warming for preventing perioperative hypothermia. BACKGROUND Perioperative hypothermia commonly occurs in patients receiving anaesthesia during surgeries. However, the effectiveness of warming systems requires verification. DESIGN Systematic review incorporating meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES We searched OVID, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Medline, CINAHL, CETD and CEPS databases (2001-2015) for randomized controlled trials published in English and Chinese. Outcome measures of interests were body temperature and thermal comfort. REVIEW METHODS Cochrane methods, Quality of evidence (GRADE) assessments and Jadad Quality Score were used. RESULTS Twenty-nine trials (1875 patients) met inclusion criteria, including seven trials (502 patients) related to thermal comfort. Results showed that: (1) forced-air warming was more effective than passive insulation and circulating-water mattresses; (2) there was no statistically significant difference among forced-air warming, resistive heating blankets, radiant warming systems and circulating-water garments; and (3) that thermal comfort provided by forced-air warming was superior to that of passive insulation, resistive heating blankets and radiant warming systems, but inferior to that of circulating-water mattresses. CONCLUSIONS Forced-air warming prevents perioperative hypothermia more effectively than passive insulation and circulating-water mattresses, whereas there is no statistically significant difference in its effectiveness compared with circulating-water garments, resistive heating blankets and radiant warming systems.
Novel microsatellite markers suggest the mechanism of parthenogenesis in Extatosoma tiaratum is automixis with terminal fusion

Parthenogenetic reproduction is taxonomically widespread and occurs through various cytological mechanisms, which have different impact on the genetic variation of the offspring. Extatosoma tiaratum is a facultatively parthenogenetic Australian insect (Phasmatodea), in which females oviposit continuously throughout their adult lifespan irrespective of mating. Fertilized eggs produce sons and daughters through sexual reproduction and unfertilized eggs produce female offspring via parthenogenesis. Here, we developed novel microsatellite markers for E. tiaratum and characterized them by genotyping individuals from a natural population. We then used the microsatellite markers to infer the cytological mechanism of parthenogenesis in this species. We found evidence suggesting parthenogenesis in E. tiaratum occurs through automixis with terminal fusion, resulting in substantial loss of microsatellite heterozygosity in the offspring. Loss of microsatellite heterozygosity may be associated with loss of heterozygosity in fitness related loci. The mechanism of parthenogenetic reproduction can therefore affect fitness outcomes and needs to be considered when comparing costs and benefits of sex versus parthenogenesis.
Decentration and Tilt of Intraocular Lens after Posterior Capsulotomy

ABSTRACT Purpose: To assess the effect of posterior capsular opacification (PCO) and Neodymium-doped:Yttrium Aluminium Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy on tilt and decentration of intraocular lens (IOL) at vertical and horizontal meridians. Methods: The study included 64 eyes of 64 patients. IOL decentration and tilt were measured using a Scheimpflug camera before and 1 month after Nd:YAG capsulotomy. Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) and manifest refraction were also determined. Between-group differences of IOL position change and the effect of Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy were analyzed. Results: In the PCO group, before capsulotomy, CDVA was significantly lower than that after capsulotomy and of the control group values (p = 0.001 for both). No significant difference was observed in CDVA between the control group and the PCO group after capsulotomy (p = 0.854). Before capsulotomy, the angle of tilt and decentration at both meridians was significantly higher than that in the control group (tilt: p < 0.001; for both decentrations: p = 0.001, p = 0.003, respectively). A significant decrease was observed in the angle of tilt at both meridians (horizontal p = 0.001, vertical p = 0.001) from before to after capsulotomy in the PCO group. Although decentration was increased after capsulotomy, no significant position change was observed (horizontal p = 0.350, vertical p = 0.107). The angle of tilt and decentration at both meridians was significantly higher in the PCO group after capsulotomy compared to the control group (p < 0.001 for all). Conclusions: PCO is associated with not only axial displacement, but also tilt and decentration of IOL at the vertical and horizontal meridians. Laser capsulotomy decreased IOL tilt but had no effect on decentration. However, these changes did not significantly change the visual acuity between the control group and the PCO group after capsulotomy.
Alternating logistic regressions with improved finite sample properties

Alternating logistic regressions is an estimating equations procedure used to model marginal means of correlated binary outcomes while simultaneously specifying a within‐cluster association model for log odds ratios of outcome pairs. A recent generalization of alternating logistic regressions, known as orthogonalized residuals, is extended to incorporate finite sample adjustments in the estimation of the log odds ratio model parameters for when there is a moderately small number of clusters. Bias adjustments are made both in the sandwich variance estimators and in the estimating equations for the association parameters. The proposed methods are demonstrated in a repeated cross‐sectional cluster trial to reduce underage drinking in the United States, and in an analysis of dental caries incidence in a cluster randomized trial of 30 aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory of Australia. A simulation study demonstrates improved performance with respect to bias and coverage of their estimators relative to those based on the uncorrected orthogonalized residuals procedure.
Fundamental Gap of Convex Domains in the Spheres

abstract:S. Seto, L. Wang, and G. Wei proved that the gap between the first two Dirichlet eigenvalues of a convex domain in the unit sphere is at least as large as that for an associated operator on an interval with the same diameter, provided that the domain has the diameter at most $\pi/2$. In this paper, we extend Seto-Wang-Wei's result to convex domains in the unit sphere with diameter less than $\pi$.
Fabrication of Circuits on Flexible Substrates Using Conductive SU-8 for Sensing Applications

This article describes a new low-cost rapid microfabrication technology for high-density interconnects and passive devices on flexible substrates for sensing applications. Silver nanoparticles with an average size of 80 nm were used to create a conductive SU-8 mixture with a concentration of wt 25%. The patterned structures after hard baking have a sheet resistance of 11.17 Ω/☐. This conductive SU-8 was used to pattern planar inductors, capacitors and interconnection lines on flexible Kapton film. The conductive SU-8 structures were used as a seed layer for a subsequent electroplating process to increase the conductivity of the devices. Examples of inductors, resistor-capacitor (RC) and inductor-capacitor (LC) circuits, interconnection lines and a near-field communication (NFC) antenna are presented as a demonstration. As an example of high-resolution miniaturization, we fabricated microinductors having line widths of 5 μm. Mechanical bending tests were successful down to a 5 mm radius. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of conductive SU-8 used to fabricate such planar devices and the first on flexible substrates. This is a proof of concept that this fabrication approach can be used as an alternative for microfabrication of planar passive devices on flexible substrates.
Clinical variability of chromosome 22q11.2 deletion syndrome

22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2 DS) is a disorder that has multiple symptoms and affects various organs and systems. Despite the great variability of clinical manifestations, common 22q11.2 DS includes congenital heart defect, immunodeficiency, characteristic facial features, palatal defects, developmental and/or learning disabilities, and hypocalcaemia. We present the cases of three patients with 22q11.2 DS that we have observed. Heart defects were revealed in all cases, and tetralogy of Fallot in one of them. Immune system disorders in these cases were highly variable and did not correlate with aplasia or hypoplasia of the thymus. Cleft palate was diagnosed only in one case. Characteristic facial features were presented in all cases but they were not significant and varied from subtle to mild. Developmental disability was presented by motor delays in two cases. Hypocalcaemia was revealed in one patient, and seizures were absent. Only one case completely fit CATCH-22 syndrome (cardiac defects, abnormal facies, thymic hypoplasia, cleft palate, and hypocalcaemia caused by22q11.2 deletion). The other cases had three out of the five main features, with some other, less significant signs also presented. In some cases, even just a few signs should be the reason for further examination to exclude 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Currently, immunological disorders are not a significant determinant in the diagnosis of this syndrome, and timely correction of heart defects can reduce the number of recurrent respiratory infections. A multidisciplinary approach to the management of these patients and providing timely, complex medical care will prevent serious complications.