Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Indirect Effect of Child Maltreatment Severity on Adult PTSD Symptoms through Anxiety Sensitivity

ABSTRACT Although the rate of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among survivors of child maltreatment is high, individuals differ in symptom severity and many do not experience clinically significant levels of psychopathology. The present study tested the indirect effects of child maltreatment severity on adult PTSD, suicidal ideations, and alcohol dependence via anxiety sensitivity. A sample of 336 participants (mean age of 22.81 years, SD = 8.93; 70.2% female) completed an online survey of child abuse and neglect, anxiety sensitivity, PTSD symptom severity, suicidal ideation severity, and alcohol dependence severity. The results revealed significant indirect effects of child maltreatment on PTSD symptom severity through cognitive and social concerns, but not physical concerns. No direct or indirect effects were demonstrated for suicidal ideations or alcohol dependence severity. These findings elucidate mechanisms in the robust relationship between child maltreatment and adult PTSD symptoms and can potentially inform future research on mechanisms of change in psychotherapy.
Advances in computational modeling approaches of pituitary gonadotropin signaling

ABSTRACT Introduction: Pituitary gonadotropins play an essential and pivotal role in the control of human and animal reproduction within the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis. The computational modeling of pituitary gonadotropin signaling encompasses phenomena of different natures such as the dynamic encoding of gonadotropin secretion, and the intracellular cascades triggered by gonadotropin binding to their cognate receptors, resulting in a variety of biological outcomes. Areas covered: The authors provide an overview of the historical and ongoing issues in modeling and data analysis related to gonadotropin secretion in the field of both physiology and neuroendocrinology. They mention the different mathematical formalisms involved, their interest and limits. They also discuss open statistical questions in signal analysis associated with key endocrine issues and review recent advances in the modeling of the intracellular pathways activated by gonadotropins, which yields promising development for innovative approaches in drug discovery. Expert opinion: The greatest challenge to be tackled in computational modeling of pituitary gonadotropin signaling is the embedding of gonadotropin signaling within its natural multi-scale environment, from the single cell level, to the organic and whole HPG level. The development of modeling approaches of G protein-coupled receptor signaling, together with multicellular systems biology may lead to unexampled mechanistic understanding with critical expected fallouts in the therapeutic management of reproduction.
Designing Brains for Pain: Human to Mollusc

There is compelling evidence that the “what it feels like” subjective experience of sensory stimuli arises in the cerebral cortex in both humans as well as mammalian experimental animal models. Humans are alone in their ability to verbally communicate their experience of the external environment. In other species, sensory awareness is extrapolated on the basis of behavioral indicators. For instance, cephalopods have been claimed to be sentient on the basis of their complex behavior and anecdotal reports of human-like intelligence. We have interrogated the findings of avoidance learning behavioral paradigms and classical brain lesion studies and conclude that there is no evidence for cephalopods feeling pain. This analysis highlighted the questionable nature of anthropometric assumptions about sensory experience with increased phylogenetic distance from humans. We contend that understanding whether invertebrates such as molluscs are sentient should first begin with defining the computational processes and neural circuitries underpinning subjective awareness. Using fundamental design principles, we advance the notion that subjective awareness is dependent on observer neural networks (networks that in some sense introspect the neural processing generating neural representations of sensory stimuli). This introspective process allows the observer network to create an internal model that predicts the neural processing taking place in the network being surveyed. Predictions arising from the internal model form the basis of a rudimentary form of awareness. We develop an algorithm built on parallel observer networks that generates multiple levels of sensory awareness. A network of cortical regions in the human brain has the appropriate functional properties and neural interconnectivity that is consistent with the predicted circuitry of the algorithm generating pain awareness. By contrast, the cephalopod brain lacks the necessary neural circuitry to implement such an algorithm. In conclusion, we find no compelling behavioral, functional, or neuroanatomical evidence to indicate that cephalopods feel pain.
Online Adaptative Curriculum Learning for GANs

Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) can successfully approximate a probability distribution and produce realistic samples. However, open questions such as sufficient convergence conditions and mode collapse still persist. In this paper, we build on existing work in the area by proposing a novel framework for training the generator against an ensemble of discriminator networks, which can be seen as a one-student/multiple-teachers setting. We formalize this problem within the full-information adversarial bandit framework, where we evaluate the capability of an algorithm to select mixtures of discriminators for providing the generator with feedback during learning. To this end, we propose a reward function which reflects the progress made by the generator and dynamically update the mixture weights allocated to each discriminator. We also draw connections between our algorithm and stochastic optimization methods and then show that existing approaches using multiple discriminators in literature can be recovered from our framework. We argue that less expressive discriminators are smoother and have a general coarse grained view of the modes map, which enforces the generator to cover a wide portion of the data distribution support. On the other hand, highly expressive discriminators ensure samples quality. Finally, experimental results show that our approach improves samples quality and diversity over existing baselines by effectively learning a curriculum. These results also support the claim that weaker discriminators have higher entropy improving modes coverage.
A Case of Relapsing Peritoneal Dialysis-Associated Peritonitis by Dokdonella koreensis

Peritonitis is a common and serious complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD) with significant morbidity. We report the first case of relapsing Dokdonella koreensis peritonitis in a patient on peritoneal dialysis. A 63-year-old Chinese man, with history of renal failure on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, presented with cloudy peritoneal effluent and abdominal pain. There was no sign or symptom suggestive of exit-site/tunnel tract infection. Peritoneal effluent cultures yielded Dokdonella koreensis which was initially misidentified as Weeksella virosa and Brevundimonas species by the API® 20 NE and VITEK® 2 GN ID card, respectively. He was treated with intraperitoneal amikacin, but the infection relapsed within a few days upon completing each antibiotic course. He eventually required removal of catheter and was transferred to hemodialysis. Infections due to unusual organisms may pose a diagnostic issue as currently available commercial tests will not be able to identify them. There is a role for using 16S rRNA sequencing to help identify these organisms and guide patient management.
Metabolic and lifestyle risk factors for acute pancreatitis in Chinese adults: A prospective cohort study of 0.5 million people

Background Little prospective evidence exists about risk factors and prognosis of acute pancreatitis in China. We examined the associations of certain metabolic and lifestyle factors with risk of acute pancreatitis in Chinese adults. Methods and findings The prospective China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB) recruited 512,891 adults aged 30 to 79 years from 5 urban and 5 rural areas between 25 June 2004 and 15 July 2008. During 9.2 years of follow-up (to 1 January 2015), 1,079 cases of acute pancreatitis were recorded. Cox regression was used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for acute pancreatitis associated with various metabolic and lifestyle factors among all or male (for smoking and alcohol drinking) participants. Overall, the mean waist circumference (WC) was 82.1 cm (SD 9.8) cm in men and 79.0 cm (SD 9.5) cm in women, 6% had diabetes, and 6% had gallbladder disease at baseline. WC was positively associated with risk of acute pancreatitis, with an adjusted HR of 1.35 (95% CI 1.27–1.43; p < 0.001) per 1-SD-higher WC. Individuals with diabetes or gallbladder disease had HRs of 1.34 (1.07–1.69; p = 0.01) and 2.42 (2.03–2.88; p < 0.001), respectively. Physical activity was inversely associated with risk of acute pancreatitis, with each 4 metabolic equivalent of task (MET) hours per day (MET-h/day) higher physical activity associated with an adjusted HR of 0.95 (0.91–0.99; p = 0.03). Compared with those without any metabolic risk factors (i.e., obesity, diabetes, gallbladder disease, and physical inactivity), the HRs of acute pancreatitis for those with 1, 2, or ≥3 risk factors were 1.61 (1.47–1.76), 2.36 (2.01–2.78), and 3.41 (2.46–4.72), respectively (p < 0.001). Among men, heavy alcohol drinkers (≥420 g/week) had an HR of 1.52 (1.11–2.09; p = 0.04, compared with abstainers), and current regular smokers had an HR of 1.45 (1.28–1.64; p = 0.02, compared with never smokers). Following a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis, there were higher risks of pancreatic cancer (HR = 8.26 [3.42–19.98]; p < 0.001; 13 pancreatic cancer cases) and death (1.53 [1.17–2.01]; p = 0.002; 89 deaths). Other diseases of the pancreas had similar risk factor profiles and prognosis to acute pancreatitis. The main study limitations are ascertainment of pancreatitis using hospital records and residual confounding. Conclusions In this relatively lean Chinese population, several modifiable metabolic and lifestyle factors were associated with higher risks of acute pancreatitis, and individuals with acute pancreatitis had higher risks of pancreatic cancer and death.
Functional miRNA variants affect lung cancer susceptibility and platinum-based chemotherapy response.

Background Platinum-based chemotherapy is widely used as the first-line treatment of lung cancer. MicroRNAs have an important role in lung carcinogenesis and progression. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in miRNA involved in miRNA biogenesis and structural alteration may affect miRNA expression. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association of functional miRNA variants with the lung cancer susceptibility and platinum-based chemotherapy response. Methods Nine genetic polymorphisms in miR-605, 146a, 149, 196a-2, 27a, 499, 30c-1, 5197 and let-7a-2 were selected with comprehensive collection strategy and genotyped by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry in a total of 215 health control and 507 lung cancer patients (386 patients received at least two consecutive cycles of platinum-based chemotherapy). Results We found that an allele carriers of miR-146a rs2910164 (P=0.022, OR=1.315) and C allele carriers of miR-149 rs71428439 (P=0.042, OR=1.372) performance a high risk of lung cancer. Mir-30c-1 rs928508 (P=0.005, in recessive model) and let-7a-2 rs629367 (P=0.030 and P=0.021, in additive and dominant models, respectively) showed strong relationship with lung cancer risk in age under 57 years. The rs11614913 (miR-196a-2) C allele or rs9280508 (miR-30c-1) G allele carriers shown more sensitive to platinum both in additive (P=0.010, P=0.022, respectively) and dominant models (P=0.001, P=0.018, respectively). Conclusions These findings suggested that SNPs rs71428439 (miR-149), rs2910164 (miR-146a), rs928508 (mir-30c-1) and rs629367 (let-7a-2) were associated with the lung cancer prevalence, polymorphisms of rs11614913 (miR-196a-2) and rs9280508 (miR-30c-1) significantly influenced the patients' response to platinum-based chemotherapy, which may serve as potential clinical biomarkers to predict lung cancer risk and platinum-based chemotherapy response.
Post-operative drain use in patients undergoing decompression and fusion: incidence of complications and symptomatic hematoma.

Background Surgical drains are commonly used after spine surgery to minimize infection and hematoma formation. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of post-operative complications after spinal decompression and fusion with and without a subfascial drain. Methods The medical records of 139 adult (≥18 years old) spinal deformity patients undergoing elective spinal decompression and fusion at a major academic institution were reviewed. We identified 116 (83.5%) who had a post-operative drain and 23 (16.5%) who did not have a postoperative drain (No-Drain: n=23; Drain-Use: n=116). Patient demographics, comorbidities, intra- and post-operative complication rates were collected for each patient. The primary outcome investigated in this study was the rate of post-operative complications, specifically surgical site infections (SSI) and hematoma formation. Results Patient demographics and comorbidities were similar between both cohorts, with the body mass index (BMI) slightly higher in the Drain-Use cohort (No-Drain: 26.1 kg/m2vs. Drain-Use: 29.1 kg/m2, P=0.02). Operative time and the median number of levels fused were similar between the cohorts. The postoperative complications profile was similar between both cohorts, including deep and superficial SSIs (P=0.52 and P=0.66, respectively), and incidence of hematoma formation (P=0.66). Length of hospital stay (LOS) was significantly higher for the Drain-use cohort compared to the No-Drain cohort (5.0 vs. 2.8 days, P<0.0001). There were no significant differences in the 30-day hospital readmission rate or incidence of 30-day wound dehiscence, draining wound, incision & drainage (I & D), or bleeding between both patient groups. Conclusions Our study suggests that the use of postoperative subfascial drains in patients undergoing spinal decompression with fusion may not be associated with a reduction in SSIs or hematoma formation.
Young Mothers’ and Fathers’ Perceptions of Relationship Violence: A Focus Group Study

Teens and young adults who are pregnant or parenting are important targets for efforts to prevent intimate partner violence (IPV). To intervene appropriately and effectively, we need to fully understand the unique issues and contexts for IPV in this population. This focus group study examined young parents’ (N = 28) perceptions of their relationships, stressors and sources of conflict, forms of IPV, and help-seeking behaviors. We examined data using template, content, thematic, and framework analyses. Findings about relationships and violence between young parents provide valuable insights for future intervention programs designed to prevent or address IPV among teen parents.
A Novel qPCR Method for Simultaneous Detection and Quantification of Viable Pathogenic and Non-pathogenic Vibrio parahaemolyticus (tlh+, tdh+, and ureR+)

Pathogenic and non-pathogenic Vibrio parahaemolyticus strains were simultaneously detected and quantified using a novel viable multiplex real-time PCR (novel qPCR). We used a new PCR primer and probe, ureR, as a surrogate for detection of the toxin trh gene as the primer was better at identifying variant V. parahaemolyticus trh strains. The specificity of all primers and probes used in this study were validated on three standard strains of V. parahaemolyticus, 42 clinical strains, 12 wild strains, 4 strains of Vibrio spp. , and 4 strains of other bacteria. Then, propidium monoazide (PMA) was applied to inhibit DNA of dead cell, and the results of PMA optimized treatments were 15 μM concentration, 5 min incubation periods, 15 min light exposure periods and 30 RPM rotational speed, which resulted in time and cost savings. Pathogenic and non-pathogenic strains were quantified using a two-reaction tube method where the tlh, tdh, and ureR genes were amplified. Additionally, standard curves with a 7-log dynamic range were generated for quantifying viable V. parahaemolyticus and the amplification efficiencies were 108.68, 105.17, and 115.61% for tlh+, tdh+, and ureR+. This novel qPCR accurately monitored V. parahaemolyticus contamination rates in shrimps (Penaeus vannamei) and clams (Ruditapes philippinarum) sampled from retail stores located in a major district in Shanghai. In conclusion, our assay can prioritize the detection and quantification of viable pathogenic V. parahaemolyticus and can prove to be a more effective tool for reducing infection risks from consumption of seafood in Shanghai.
Measuring the impact of genetic knowledge on intentions and attitudes of the community towards expanded preconception carrier screening

Background Preconception carrier screening (PCS) provides the potential to empower couples to make reproductive choices before having an affected child. An important question is what factors influence the decision to use or not use PCS. Methods We analysed the relationship between knowledge, attitudes and intentions to participate in PCS using logistic regression in 832 participants in Western Australia. Results Two-thirds of participants said they would take the test, with 92% of these supporting screening for diseases reducing the lifespan of children and infants. Those who had good genetic knowledge were seven times more likely to intend to use PCS (p≤0.001), while those with high genetic knowledge were four times more likely to (p=0.002) and raised concerns such as insurance and confidentiality. Decreasing genetic knowledge correlated positively with religiosity and apprehension (p≤0.001), which correlated negatively with intention to use PCS (p≤0.001). Increasing genetic knowledge correlated positively with factors representing positive attitudes (p≤0.001), which correlated positively with intention to use PCS (p≤0.001). Many participants with good genetic knowledge nevertheless answered questions that tested understanding incorrectly. 80% of participants stated they would prefer to access the test through their general practitioners and 30% would pay up to $A200. Conclusions Knowledge is instrumental in influencing participation. Having good genetic knowledge may not be enough to understand core concepts of PCS and may impact informed decision-making. This study recommends that continuous education of health professionals and thus the community, in PCS is crucial to reduce misconceptions.
Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment: Nurses Helping Colorado Training Program.

BACKGROUND Nurses Helping Colorado was a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration-funded program to train nurses on Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT), a research-based strategy for preventing substance use disorders. METHOD Trainees were 678 undergraduate nursing students and 480 graduate advanced practice nursing students at an academic medical center. Training included classroom lectures, role-play simulation, and supervised practice. The program was evaluated using participant self-reports immediately posttraining, 3 to 12 months later, and postgraduation. RESULTS Trainees reported high satisfaction, increased knowledge, and willingness to use SBIRT. Gains were maintained after training. After students graduated, 52% used screening, 52% offered brief interventions, and 37% used referral to treatment. Results were higher than those for past graduates, and most were higher than community benchmarks. CONCLUSION When SBIRT training was woven through nursing curricula, students demonstrated learning and used these methods in practice after graduation. SBIRT education is appropriate across the lifespan and across settings in nursing. [J Nurs Educ. 2018;57(8):476-482. ].
Elucidation of the synergistic action of Mentha Piperita essential oil with common antimicrobials

Mentha piperita L. essential oil (EO) is employed for external use as antipruritic, astringent, rubefacient and antiseptic. Several studies demonstrated its significant antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties. The aim of this work is the study of the synergistic effects of M. piperita EO with antibacterials and antifungals that are widely available and currently prescribed in therapies against infections. The observed strong synergy may constitute a potential new approach to counter the increasing phenomenon of multidrug resistant bacteria and fungi. In vitro efficacy of the association M. piperita EO/drugs was evaluated against a large panel of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and yeast strains. The antimicrobial effects were studied by checkerboard microdilution method. The synergistic effect of M. piperita EO with gentamicin resulted in a strong growth inhibition for all the bacterial species under study. The synergistic effect observed for M. piperita EO and antifungals was less pronounced.
An experimental test of the fetal programming hypothesis: Can we reduce child ontogenetic vulnerability to psychopathology by decreasing maternal depression?

Abstract Maternal depression is one of the most common prenatal complications, and prenatal maternal depression predicts many child psychopathologies. Here, we apply the fetal programming hypothesis as an organizational framework to address the possibility that fetal exposure to maternal depressive symptoms during pregnancy affects fetal development of vulnerabilities and risk mechanisms, which enhance risk for subsequent psychopathology. We consider four candidate pathways through which maternal prenatal depression may affect the propensity of offspring to develop later psychopathology across the life span: brain development, physiological stress regulation (hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenocortical axis), negative emotionality, and cognitive (effortful) control. The majority of past research has been correlational, so potential causal conclusions have been limited. We describe an ongoing experimental test of the fetal programming influence of prenatal maternal depressive symptoms using a randomized controlled trial design. In this randomized controlled trial, interpersonal psychotherapy is compared to enhanced usual care among distressed pregnant women to evaluate whether reducing prenatal maternal depressive symptoms has a salutary impact on child ontogenetic vulnerabilities and thereby reduces offspring's risk for emergence of later psychopathology.
CYP2D6 allele frequencies, copy number variants, and tandems in the population of Hong Kong

CYP2D6 plays a crucial role in drug metabolism of several drugs. It is known to be highly polymorphic with enzymatic activity ranging from poor to ultrarapid metabolic rates. While the frequencies of CYP2D6 alleles are generally known in different Asian populations, data on frequencies of the copy number variations (CNV) and tandems in CYP2D6 in which they occur are less well studied in these populations.