Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cytokeratin-19 positivity is acquired along cancer progression and does not predict cell origin in rat hepatocarcinogenesis

Although the expression of the stem/progenitor cell marker cytokeratin-19 (CK-19) has been associated with the worst clinical prognosis among all HCC subclasses, it is yet unknown whether its presence in HCC is the result of clonal expansion of hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) or of de-differentiation of mature hepatocytes towards a progenitor-like cell phenotype. We addressed this question by using two rat models of hepatocarcinogenesis: the Resistant-Hepatocyte (R-H) and the Choline-methionine deficient (CMD) models. Our data indicate that the expression of CK-19 is not the result of a clonal expansion of HPCs (oval cells in rodents), but rather of a further step of preneoplastic hepatocytes towards a less differentiated phenotype and a more aggressive behavior. Indeed, although HCCs were positive for CK-19, very early preneoplastic foci (EPFs) were completely negative for this marker. While a few weeks later the vast majority of preneoplastic nodules remained CK-19 negative, a minority became positive, suggesting that CK-19 expression is the result of de-differentiation of a subset of EPFs, rather than a marker of stem/progenitor cells. Moreover, the gene expression profile of CK-19-negative EPFs clustered together with CK-19-positive nodules, but was clearly distinct from CK-19 negative nodules and oval cells. Conclusion i) CK-19-positive cells are not involved in the early clonal expansion observed in rat hepatocarcinogenesis; ii) CK-19 expression arises in preneoplastic hepatocyte lesions undergoing malignant transformation; iii) CK-19 positivity in HCCs does not necessarily reflect the cell of origin of the tumor, but rather the plasticity of preneoplastic cells during the tumorigenic process.
Noninvasive Measures of Reproductive Function and Disturbance in the Barred Owl, Great Horned Owl, and Northern Spotted Owl

Abstract: There is an urgent need for noninvasive methods to study reproduction and environmental stress in at‐risk species such as the northern spotted owl (Strix occidentalis caurina). Two related owl species (barred owl and great horned owl) were used as surrogates to validate hormone assays for fecal metabolites of progesterone, 17β‐estradiol, testosterone, and corticosterone. Infusions of radiolabeled hormones showed that the owls excreted most hormone within 6 h. Feces and urine contained roughly equal amounts of hormone, and most fecal hormone metabolites were quite polar. The testosterone and corticosterone assays in this study bound to the major excreted metabolites of these hormones, but two progesterone assays did not appreciably bind to the major progesterone metabolites. All assays showed excellent parallelism with hydrolyzed and unhydrolyzed samples and with previously dried or undried fecal samples. Thus, samples do not require hydrolysis or prior drying. Samples from a female barred owl had significantly higher fecal estrogen, lower fecal testosterone, and higher fecal estrogen/testosterone ratio than samples from two male barred owls. The fecal estrogen/testosterone ratio was the most accurate predictor of owl gender, particularly if two or more samples are available from the same individual. Fecal corticosterone metabolites also demonstrated considerable utility for wild northern spotted owls. Fecal glucocorticoid levels varied by gender and breeding stage, being highest in male northern spotted owls early in the breeding season and highest in females when nestlings were fledging. Collectively, these studies show that noninvasive fecal hormone measurements show great promise for noninvasive assessment of reproduction and stress in wild owls.
Satisfaction level among Diploma in Medical Electronic students on the sustainability of physical facilities in Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah

Sustainability of physical facilities is very important for every public higher education institution in Malaysia. Each year budget is allocated for the improvement of these facilities. However, limited financial aid besides the need to diversify the programs in the institution has resulted in most to operate in poor conditions. These demands have resulted in many institutions to observe the phenomenon of sustainability hence bringing about the solution to this problem. In line with this, CMET and PSA have taken the measure to conduct a survey of customer satisfaction on the perspectives of Diploma in Electronic Engineering (Medical) students of semester three, five and six on the physical facilities provided by PSA. The physical facilities include classrooms, laboratories, lecture halls, library, hostels and cafeteria along with furniture, space, ICT, lighting, indoor air quality and safety equipment, all accessible in their physical environment. Subsequently, this has led to a higher sense of awareness inculcated among students in the use of physical facilities in ensuring its sustainability alongside improvements and additions made to the number of facilities which are found insufficient.
Clinical evaluation and characterisation of corneal vascularisation

Background/aims To clinically characterise corneal neovascularisation (CVas) with a view to elaborate clinical presentations and to standardise descriptors for clinical evaluation and research. Methods Corneas of 165 patients with CVas due to a variety of corneal pathologies were observed clinically with the slit lamp biomicroscope and photography at different time points over the course of their disease. Parameters assessed included location, depth, length, branching pattern, colour, lipid leakage, nature of blood flow and presence of haemorrhage. A clinical grading of CVas was applied. Results CVas can arise from the limbus, conjunctiva and iris. CVas preferentially travels along planes created by corneal incisions, suture tracks and lamellar keratoplasty, both deep lamellar and endothelial keratoplasty. CVas also principally follows the depth of pathology. CVas can be classified into active young, active old, mature, partially regressed and regressed. Herpetic infection was the most common cause of lipid keratopathy. Acanthamoeba keratitis induced the least amount of vascularisation. A simple and efficient clinical grading system for ascertaining the severity of CVas was developed and validated. Conclusions The various clinical characteristics of CVas described in this study can be used to standardise the nomenclature and description of CVas and clinically grade its severity. As modern, effective methods of treating CVas are being introduced, it is important that there is uniformity in the descriptors used to establish baseline values and evaluate outcomes of treatment. The parameters established in this study can help in this regard.
Dignity-preserving dementia care

Research indicates the essentiality of dignity as a vital component for quality of life, reconfirming the emphasis on dignity preservation in the international code of nursing ethics. Applying Noblit and Hare’s meta-ethnography, the aim of the study was to develop a theory model by synthesizing 10 qualitative articles from various cultural contexts, exploring nurse and allied healthcare professional perception/practice concerning dignity-preserving dementia care. “Advocating the person’s autonomy and integrity,” which involves “having compassion for the person,” “confirming the person’s worthiness and sense of self,” and “creating a humane and purposeful environment,” was identified as a primary foundation for dignity-preserving dementia care. “Balancing individual choices among persons no longer able to make sound decisions, against the duty of making choices on behalf of the person,” which involves “persuasion” and/or “mild restraint,” was considered a crucial aspect in certain situations. “Sheltering human worth—remembering those who forget” was identified as a comprehensive motive and core value within dignity-preserving dementia care.
Laminar recordings in frontal cortex suggest distinct layers for maintenance and control of working memory

Significance The anatomy and dynamics of different layers of the cerebral cortex are distinct. Physiological work in the sensory cortex has investigated how different layers process sensory inputs, and how they are engaged during attention tasks. In the frontal and prefrontal cortices, where lamination is present, very few studies have investigated the role of distinct layers for cognition. We studied frontal cortex laminar neuronal activity as monkeys performed working memory tasks. Spiking and gamma-band activity (50–150 Hz) in the superficial layers reflected active maintenance of working memories. Alpha/beta frequencies (4–22 Hz) in the deep layers modulated the gamma activity in the superficial layers. This might serve a control function, allowing information to enter or exit active storage in superficial layers. All of the cerebral cortex has some degree of laminar organization. These different layers are composed of neurons with distinct connectivity patterns, embryonic origins, and molecular profiles. There are little data on the laminar specificity of cognitive functions in the frontal cortex, however. We recorded neuronal spiking/local field potentials (LFPs) using laminar probes in the frontal cortex (PMd, 8A, 8B, SMA/ACC, DLPFC, and VLPFC) of monkeys performing working memory (WM) tasks. LFP power in the gamma band (50–250 Hz) was strongest in superficial layers, and LFP power in the alpha/beta band (4–22 Hz) was strongest in deep layers. Memory delay activity, including spiking and stimulus-specific gamma bursting, was predominately in superficial layers. LFPs from superficial and deep layers were synchronized in the alpha/beta bands. This was primarily unidirectional, with alpha/beta bands in deep layers driving superficial layer activity. The phase of deep layer alpha/beta modulated superficial gamma bursting associated with WM encoding. Thus, alpha/beta rhythms in deep layers may regulate the superficial layer gamma bands and hence maintenance of the contents of WM.
A Broadband Noise-Canceling CMOS LNA for 3.1–10.6-GHz UWB Receivers

An ultra-wideband 3.1-10.6-GHz low-noise amplifier employing a broadband noise-canceling technique is presented. By using the proposed circuit and design methodology, the noise from the matching device is greatly suppressed over the desired UWB band, while the noise from other devices performing noise cancellation is minimized by the systematic approach. Fabricated in a 0.18-mum CMOS process, the IC prototype achieves a power gain of 9.7 dB over a -3 dB bandwidth of 1.2-11.9-GHz and a noise figure of 4.5-5.1 dB in the entire UWB band. It consumes 20 mW from a 1.8-V supply and occupies an area of only 0.59 mm2
Assessment of clinical and metabolic status, and subjective well-being, in schizophrenic patients switched from typical and atypical antipsychotics to ziprasidone

The objective of this paper was to assess the effects of switching from typical and/or atypical antipsychotics to ziprasidone, owing to inadequate response or intolerance, in chronic schizophrenic patients. A total of 312 patients were switched to an 8-week, open-label, flexible dose (40–160 mg/day) of ziprasidone. Psychiatric status was evaluated by Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale and Clinical Global Impression Severity scale. Other measures included functioning, subjective response and attitude toward therapy, and cognition. Laboratory tests and electrocardiography with QTc interval were carried out. Extrapyramidal symptoms and sexual dysfunction symptoms were also assessed. Of the 312 enrolled patients, 73.1% completed the study. Olanzapine, risperidone, and haloperidol were the most common psychotropic drugs taken before entry. Poor efficacy was the main reason for change in therapy. Significant improvements from baseline to endpoint were reported for mean Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale scores (P<0.0001), Clinical Global Impression Severity (P<0.0001), Global Assessment of Functioning (P<0.0001), Subjective Well-being scores (P<0.0001), and Trail Making Test (P<0.05). Significant improvements were also found for mean Simpson–Angus scale score (P<0.0001), sexual dysfunction, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides. In addition, mean body weight significantly decreased from baseline (P<0.0001). A favorable profile for ziprasidone was found with regard to improved subjective tolerability, quality of life, and medication adherence behavior.
Species distribution of coagulase-negative staphylococcal isolates at a community hospital and implications for selection of staphylococcal identification procedures

A total of 499 coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) were isolated from a variety of clinical specimens at a community hospital. Ten different species and many strains of CoNS were identified. Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most common isolate. The species distribution suggests that S. saprophyticus and, to a lesser extent, S. haemolyticus may be important in urinary tract infections. S. lugdunensis may be a significant isolate from wound infections. Frequently, mixed cultures were found with either multiple species or multiple strains of the same species of CoNS. These mixed cultures could not be detected by colony morphology upon initial overnight incubation of the cultures but could be distinguished following colony development for several days. In addition, sequential positive cultures from an individual patient often yielded different species or different strains of the same species which again could not be detected upon initial observations of colony morphology. Procedures for the identification of the CoNS need to be improved, and microbiology laboratories should consider the use of more definitive identification procedures for the CoNS.
The use of cognitive behavioural therapy techniques for anxiety and depression in hospice patients: a feasibility study

Anxiety and depression are common in palliative care patients. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been recommended as one possible treatment, and it has been suggested that non-mental health professionals may be able to treat milder disorders with CBT. The aim of this study was to assess whether the use of CBT techniques in hospice patients is an acceptable intervention, and whether a palliative care professional with short CBT training can usefully apply such techniques. A feasibility study of a brief CBT intervention following training was conducted. Qualitative analysis was carried out on patient feedback from semi-structured interviews. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale scores pre-and post-intervention were analysed statistically. Eleven patients completed a short course using CBT techniques. The intervention was acceptable for 10 patients. One patient found it unacceptable due to advanced disease, lethargy and severe depression. Anxiety or depression symptoms were helped in eight patients. This study showed that a palliative care professional with short training in CBT was usefully able to apply CBT techniques to hospice patients with mild-to-moderate anxiety or depression.
INCIDENCE OF ACUTE AND CHRONIC FORMS OF LEUKEMIA IN HARYANA

Objective: The prevalence of leukemia is known to vary throughout the India. The observed geographic variation in incidence remains unexplained as yet. Previous studies have shown important differences in geographic, racial/ ethnic, age and trend patterns for different leukemia subtypes. Thus, suggesting that subtypes may have different etiologic factors. So, an attempt was made to find out geographic pattern of leukemia and its distribution throughout the Haryana. Methods: Study of 650 cases of leukemia, with cooperation from the Department of Pathology, during 2008-12 was done. We analyzed the pattern by morphological subtype, gender, age at diagnosis, distribution according to prevalence, risk factors, laboratory parameters and clinical features of leukemia. Results: In present study, 51% patients were suffering from acute forms of leukemia while 49% suffered from chronic type. Leukemia was more frequently observed in adults. Male to female ratio was 2:1 and majority of the patients (88.92%) belonged to six districts (i.e. Rohtak, Jind, Bhiwani, Sonipat, Jhajjar, Hissar). Conclusion: Low grade fever, progressive pallor, weakness and body aches were the commonest symptoms (70% cases) while pallor was the frequently observed sign.
Serum Macrophage Inhibitory Cytokine-1 (MIC-1/GDF15): A Potential Screening Tool for the Prevention of Colon Cancer?

Background: Macrophage inhibitory cytokine-1 (MIC-1/GDF15) mediates nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) protection from colonic polyps in mice and is linked to the development of colorectal carcinoma in humans. Therefore, changes in serum MIC-1/GDF15 levels could predict the presence of premalignant colonic polyposis and assist in population screening strategies. Methods: Serum MIC-1/GDF15 levels were measured in subjects in the Polyp Prevention Trial, in which NSAID use and colon cancer risk factors were defined. Subjects had an initial adenoma removed, a repeat colonoscopy removing previously unidentified polyps, and serum MIC-1/GDF15 estimation. Three years later recurrent adenomas were identified and serum MIC-1/GDF15 levels reestimated. The relationship between serum MIC-1/GDF15 levels and adenoma presence or recurrence was examined. Results: Serum MIC-1/GDF15 levels differed by adenoma status and were significantly related to colon cancer risk factors. In addition, mean serum MIC-1/GDF15 levels rose with increasing numbers of adenomas present and high-risk adenoma recurrence. NSAID users had higher serum MIC-1/GDF15 concentrations, which were related to protection from adenoma recurrence. Furthermore, adjusted serum MIC-1/GDF15 levels at final follow-up were related to adenoma recurrence (highest quartile MIC-1/GDF15; OR = 14.7, 95% CI: 3.0–73). Conclusions: These data suggest that MIC-1/GDF15 mediates at least some of the protection afforded by NSAIDs against human colonic polyposis. Furthermore, serum MIC-1/GDF15 levels vary with the development of adnenomatous colonic polyps. Impact: Serum MIC-1/GDF15 determination may hold promise as the first serum screening test to assist the detection of premalignant adenomatous colonic polyposis. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 21(2); 337–46. ©2011 AACR.
Expectations of rehabilitation following lower limb amputation: a qualitative study

Abstract Purpose: To explore the expectations of patients about to undergo prosthetic rehabilitation following a lower limb amputation. Method: Design: Qualitative study using semi structured interviews. Setting: Interviews were conducted at two district general hospitals. Participants: Eight patients who had undergone a major lower limb amputation due to vascular insufficiency were interviewed within two weeks of their amputation. All patients had been referred for prosthetic rehabilitation. Results: Five key themes emerged from the interviews: uncertainty, expectations in relation to the rehabilitation service, personal challenges, the prosthesis and returning to normality. These findings illustrate how participants faced uncertainty both pre- and postoperatively and often looked towards established amputees for the provision of accurate information. Conclusions: As no previous research has specifically explored patients’ expectations following an amputation, this study adds valuable insight into the patient experience. Patient expectations following lower limb amputation appeared to be vague and uninformed which may lead to uncertainty and passivity. It was found that patients did not know what to expect in relation to the rehabilitation process. They expected to return to a normal life following an amputation and this expectation appeared to be an important coping mechanism. Patient information and discussions should form an important part of the rehabilitation process before as well as during prosthetic rehabilitation, to help shape realistic expectations. This will allow patients to take a more active, informed role in the process. Psychoeducation interventions (talking) appears to be as important as “walking” within prosthetic rehabilitation services. Implications for Rehabilitation Patients’ expectations following lower limb amputation need to be informed by the rehabilitation team and established amputees from an early stage as part of the short- and long-term process of adjustment following amputation. Patient expectations of a return to normality appear to be an important part of coping following lower limb amputation, exploration of a new normal, both physically and psychosocially should be addressed as part of the rehabilitation process.
Poly-β-Hydroxybutyrate Turnover inAzorhizobium caulinodans Is Required for Growth and AffectsnifA Expression

ABSTRACT Azorhizobium caulinodans is able to fix nitrogen in the free-living state and in symbiosis with the tropical legumeSesbania rostrata. The bacteria accumulate poly-β-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) under both conditions. The structural gene for PHB synthase, phbC, was inactivated by insertion of an interposon. The mutant strains obtained were devoid of PHB, impaired in their growth properties, totally devoid of nitrogenase activity ex planta (Nif−), and affected in nucleotide pools and induced Fix− nodules devoid of bacteria. The Nif− phenotype was the consequence of the lack ofnifA transcription. Nitrogenase activity was partially restored to a phbC mutant by constitutive expression of thenifA gene. However, this constitutive nifAexpression had no effect on the nucleotide content or on growth of thephbC mutant. It is suggested that PHB is required for maintaining the reducing power of the cell and therefore the bacterial growth. These observations also suggest a new control ofnifA expression to adapt nitrogen fixation to the availability of carbon and reducing equivalents.
Rifampicin Resistant Tuberculosis in a Secondary Health Institution in Nigeria, West Africa

Background: Rifampicin-dependent tuberculosis is an unrecognized and potentially serious treatment issue. Rifampicin resistance is a risk factor for poor outcome in tuberculosis. It is prevalent in Nigeria. Therefore, we sought to examine the pattern of rifampicin resistance tuberculosis in Nigeria, West Africa. Method: One hundred and forty tuberculosis cases were referred to the chest clinic of Sobi Specialist Hospital from January to December 2013. Sputum samples were obtained from them, smeared on glass slides, stained using Ziehl Neelsen Stain and later observed under light microscopy. The GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay was used to simultaneously detect TB and rifampicin resistance. Result: The minimum age of the patients was 18years, while the maximum was 83. The mean age was 38.39± 13.75. There was male preponderance 84(60%), compared to 56(40%) female. The secondary health institution made the highest referral. Forty eight (34.3%) had smear-positive TB, while 92(65.7%) were sputum negative. Thirty two (38.1%) male out of 84 and 12(21.4%) female out of 56 were sensitive to Rifampicin, while 6(7.1) male out of 84 and 4 (7.1%) female out of 56 were resistant to it. Forty four (31.4%) were MD-TB positive with a prevalence of 31.4%. Ten (7.2%) were Rifampicin resistant; this included 6 males and females. This was statically significant. Conclusion: Our study highlights that physicians should have high index of suspicion for rifampicin resistant tuberculosis in patients refractory to anti-TB treatment. The MTB/RIF test is a useful method for rapid diagnosis of TB and detection of RIF-resistance strains. There is need for increasing effort to interrupt the transmission of RIF-TB.