Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Accuracy and precision of measurements performed on three-dimensional printed pelvises when compared to computed tomography measurements

The preoperative contouring of plates decreases the duration of surgery and improves the quality of the reduction of pelvic fractures. Patient-tailored three-dimensionally printed pelvises might be an interesting tool for achieving that purpose. Currently, no study has evaluated the accuracy of measurements performed on three-dimensional printed models in comparison with computed tomography data for complex bones, such as the pelvis. This study examined whether the measurements obtained on pelvises printed using dual-material fused deposition modeling technology are not significantly different from those obtained on computed tomography images. The computed tomography images of the pelvic region from 10 dogs were used to produce three-dimensionally printed models with a dual-material fused deposition-modeling process. Four segments were measured on both three-dimensionally printed models and computed tomography images. The measurements were performed by three observers and repeated twice. Concordance correlation coefficients were used to assess the precision and accuracy of the measurements as well as evaluate the agreement between the methods. The accuracy of measurements between the methods was > 0.99 for all measurements. The precision was almost perfect for AE (0.996), substantial for BD and BC (0.963 and 0.958, respectively), and moderate for CD (0.912). These results indicate that, despite some minor variations, the measurements performed on printed models reproduced the computed tomography data reliably.
Black Hole Masses in Three Seyfert Galaxies

We analyze published reverberation mapping data for three Seyfert galaxies (NGC 3227, NGC 3516, and NGC 4593) to refine the mass estimate for the supermassive black hole in the center of each object. Treatment of the data in a manner more consistent with other large compilations of such masses allows us to more securely compare our results to wider samples of data, e.g., in the investigation of the Mbh-σ* relationship for active and quiescent galaxies.
Pharmacological dissection of calcium channel subtype‐related components of strontium inflow in large mossy fiber boutons of mouse hippocampus

Several subtypes of voltage‐dependent calcium channels (VDCCs) are present in the presynaptic terminals. In the mammalian hippocampus, P/Q‐, N‐, and R‐ but not L‐type VDCCs are involved in the fast transmitter release from large mossy fiber (MF) boutons, which are associated with CA3 pyramidal cell dendrites. We investigated whether L‐type VDCCs are indeed absent in these large MF boutons. With the use of Sr2+ as the Ca2+ substitute, the stimulus‐evoked Sr2+ increment (Δ[Sr2+]pre) was evaluated fluorometrically. Δ[Sr2+]pre appeared to be proportional to Sr2+ inflow through VDCCs and was specifically attenuated by conventional VDCC subtype‐selective antagonists. The P/Q‐type selective ω‐agatoxin IVA (AgTxIVA) blocked Δ[Sr2+]pre with an IC50 of 28 nM and by 30–35% at its maximum effective concentration of 0.5 μM. The N‐type selective ω‐conotoxin GVIA (CgTxGVIA) blocked Δ[Sr2+]pre with an IC50 of 15 nM and by 20–25% at its maximum effective concentration of 1 μM. The R‐type selective SNX‐482 blocked Δ[Sr2+]pre with an IC50 of 79 nM and by 20–25% at its maximum effective concentration of 1 μM. The effects of these toxins did not overlap at their maximum effective concentrations and about 70–80% of Δ[Sr2+]pre was blocked by the simultaneous exposure to these toxins. Δ[Sr2+]pre component that is resistant to AgTxIVA, CgTxGVIA, and SNX‐482 was significantly potentiated by an L‐type agonist, (S)‐(−)‐Bay K8644, and attenuated by an L‐type antagonist, nimodipine, suggesting that L‐type VDCCs are present in large MF terminals. The L‐type agonist, (±)‐Bay K8644, also potentiated Sr2+ inflow into individual boutons identified as large MF boutons under confocal microscopy. Almost similar results were observed for Ca2+ inflow‐dependent fluorescence increments. L‐type VDCCs appear to be present in large MF boutons and mediate a substantial Ca2+ inflow into presynaptic terminals during action potentials. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Predictive model for estimating the extent of petroleum hydrocarbon biodegradation in contaminated soils.

A series of solid- and slurry-phase soil bioremediation experiments involving different crude oils and refined petroleum products were performed in order to investigate the factors which affect the maximum extent of total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) biodegradation. Utilizing a comprehensive petroleum hydrocarbon characterization procedure involving group type separation analyses, boiling point distributions, and hydrocarbon typing by field desorption mass spectroscopy, initial and final concentrations of specified hydrocarbon classes were determined in each of the seven bioremediation treatments
Transforming growth factor beta and its receptors: their role in breast cancer

Transforming growth factors beta (TGFb) are part of a superfamily which includes activin, inhibin and bone morphogenic protein. There are three mammalian isoforms (1–3) which are the products of different genes. They have similar biological activities in vitro but knockout mice studies suggest that there are isoformspecific activities in vivo. TGFbs exert a wide range of effects on a large variety of cells, including growth suppression and regulation, differentiation, stromal production and immune modulation. They are particularly important in embryogenesis and wound healing, and because of their different functions they have been considered to have a pivotal role in carcinogenesis. For example, in a mouse model TGFb1 has been shown to act as a tumour suppressor with haploid insufficiency. As with all growth factors and hormones, TGFbs exert their effects on cells by binding to receptors. These are then activated and interact with signal transducer proteins that translocate to the nucleus and direct transcription to effect the cell’s response to TGFb. Many of the studies concerned with the role of TGFb in breast cancer have focused on altered expression of the growth factor and its relationship to growth and tumour behaviour. However, the increased knowledge about the signalling pathways indicates that analysis of TGFb receptors and signal transducer proteins may be equally important. This is clearly demonstrated in the paper by Gobbi et al. in this issue of Histopathology.
Model‐based control of neuromuscular block using mivacurium: design and clinical verification

Background: Short‐acting agents for neuromuscular block (NMB) require frequent dosing adjustments for individual patient's needs. In this study, we verified a new closed‐loop controller for mivacurium dosing in clinical trials. Methods: Fifteen patients were studied. T1% measured with electromyography was used as input signal for the model‐based controller. After induction of propofol/opiate anaesthesia, stabilization of baseline electromyography signal was awaited and a bolus of 0.3 mg kg−1 mivacurium was then administered to facilitate endotracheal intubation. Closed‐loop infusion was started thereafter, targeting a neuromuscular block of 90%. Setpoint deviation, the number of manual interventions and surgeon's complaints were recorded. Drug use and its variability between and within patients were evaluated. Results: Median time of closed‐loop control for the 11 patients included in the data processing was 135 [89–336] min (median [range]). Four patients had to be excluded because of sensor problems. Mean absolute deviation from setpoint was 1.8 ± 0.9 T1%. Neither manual interventions nor complaints from the surgeons were recorded. Mean necessary mivacurium infusion rate was 7.0 ± 2.2 μg kg−1 min−1. Intrapatient variability of mean infusion rates over 30‐min interval showed high differences up to a factor of 1.8 between highest and lowest requirement in the same patient. Conclusions: Neuromuscular block can precisely be controlled with mivacurium using our model‐based controller. The amount of mivacurium needed to maintain T1% at defined constant levels differed largely between and within patients. Closed‐loop control seems therefore advantageous to automatically maintain neuromuscular block at constant levels.
Summary Mouse Disp 1 is required in sonic hedgehog-expressing cells for paracrine activity of the cholesterol-modified ligand

We have repeated the facial analysis reported in Fig. 2 to provide the data required to support some of the original findings of this study (see Publisher’s note). Our findings substantiate the original conclusions drawn from Fig. 2 of a dose-related genetic interaction between Disp1 and Shh alleles, and of the function of Disp1 within Shh-producing cells. Some differences are reported below, which might reflect slight differences in embryonic staging or increased sensitivity of the whole-mount in situ hybridization procedure here. Importantly, they do not alter the key conclusion that reducing Disp1 levels in Shh-producing cells results in a phenotype similar to that of genetically matched embryos with reduced Disp1 activity throughout the embryo. These data support the overall conclusions of the paper, and, together with other data in the same report, support a model in which the principal requirement for Disp1 activity is in Shh-producing cells.
Aqueous shunt implantation in glaucoma

Aqueous shunts or glaucoma drainage devices are increasingly utilized in the management of refractory glaucoma. The general design of the most commonly-used shunts is based on the principles of the Molteno implant: ie. a permanent sclerostomy (tube), a predetermined bleb area (plate) and diversion of aqueous humour to the equatorial region and away from the limbal subconjunctival space. These three factors make aqueous shunts more resistant to scarring as compared to trabeculectomy. The two most commonly used shunts are the Ahmed Glaucoma Valve, which contains a flow-restrictor, and the non-valved Baervedlt Glaucoma Implant. While the valved implants have a lower tendency to hypotony and related complications, the non-valved implants with larger, more-biocompatible end plate design, achieve lower intraocular pressures with less encapsulation. Non-valved implants require additional suturing techniques to prevent early hypotony and a number of these methods will be described. Although serious shunt-related infection is rare, corneal decompensation and diplopia are small but significant risks.
Barking up the wrong perch: Why we should stop ignoring non dietary routes of pesticide exposure in birds

Intent. The intent of Learned Discourses is to provide a forum for open discussion. These articles reflect the professional opinions of the authors regarding scientific issues. They do not represent SETAC positions or policies. And, although they are subject to editorial review for clarity, consistency, and brevity, these articles are not peer reviewed. The Learned Discourses date from 1996 in the North America SETAC News and, when that publication was replaced by the SETAC Globe, continued there through 2005. The continued success of Learned Discourses depends on our contributors. We encourage timely submissions that will inform and stimulate discussion. We expect that many of the articles will address controversial topics, and promise to give dissenting opinions a chance to be heard. Rules. All submissions must be succinct: no longer than 1000 words, no more than 6 references, and at most one table or figure. Reference format must follow the journal requirement found on the Internet at http://www.setacjournals. org. Topics must fall within IEAM’s sphere of interest. Submissions. All manuscripts should be sent via email as Word attachments to Peter M Chapman (peter_chapman@golder.com).
MERLIN: A French-German Space Lidar Mission Dedicated to Atmospheric Methane

The MEthane Remote sensing Lidar missioN (MERLIN) aims at demonstrating the spaceborne active measurement of atmospheric methane, a potent greenhouse gas, based on an Integrated Path Differential Absorption (IPDA) nadir-viewing LIght Detecting and Ranging (Lidar) instrument. MERLIN is a joint French and German space mission, with a launch currently scheduled for the timeframe 2021/22. The German Space Agency (DLR) is responsible for the payload, while the platform (MYRIADE Evolutions product line) is developed by the French Space Agency (CNES). The main scientific objective of MERLIN is the delivery of weighted atmospheric columns of methane dry-air mole fractions for all latitudes throughout the year with systematic errors small enough (<3.7 ppb) to significantly improve our knowledge of methane sources from global to regional scales, with emphasis on poorly accessible regions in the tropics and at high latitudes. This paper presents the MERLIN objectives, describes the methodology and the main characteristics of the payload and of the platform, and proposes a first assessment of the error budget and its translation into expected uncertainty reduction of methane surface emissions.
Long-term histopathologic changes in canine aneurysms embolized with Guglielmi detachable coils.

PURPOSE To evaluate the long-term histologic changes, including those in the ultrastructure of the neoendothelium, occurring in experimental canine aneurysms obliterated with Guglielmi detachable coils. METHODS Ten experimental aneurysms were surgically created in mongrel dogs using side-to-side jugular carotid fistulas that were subsequently ligated to form blind pouch venous aneurysms dependent on the carotid circulation. The aneurysms were obliterated with Guglielmi detachable coils, and the animals were kept in observation. Six months after the endovascular obliteration of the aneurysms, repeat carotid arteriography was performed to assess for potential recanalization of the aneurysms. The animals were then killed and submitted for autopsy. The carotid artery and the embolized aneurysm were resected and studied with light and electron microscopy. RESULTS Both completely obliterated and recanalized aneurysms were excluded from the parent circulation by an endothelialized layer of connective tissue. The fundus of the aneurysm was completely obliterated by heavy reactive fibrous tissue surrounding the coils with very minimal, if any, inflammatory reaction. The neointima is composed of three well-identifiable layers, the most superficial of which is formed of new endothelial cells positioned next to each other in a cobblestone fashion over a basal membrane. CONCLUSION In the absence of histologic data in human aneurysms obliterated with Guglielmi detachable coils, several observations made in our experimental study help in the understanding of the long-term results expected from this endovascular technique.
Visualising space time patterns in crime: the hotspot plot

Part of the interest in crime mapping may be due to the relevance of geography in explaining patterns of crime. There is, however, a danger in missing other patterns (temporal patterns most notably) if the spatial domain is given disproportionate focus. A number of recent academic studies have shown reliable and meaningful spatio-temporal patterns of crime; yet their representation remains rather abstract. This article proposes a systematic method of displaying crime hot spots. It combines temporal and spatial information in an effective manner that allows the viewer to intuitively: assess temporal profiles of individual hot spots at the micro and macro levels (i.e. day and year); compare the importance and temporal signature of different hot spots; and relate the results of the first two to baseline measures.
Color Trails Test: A New Set of Data on Cognitive Flexibility and Processing Speed in Schizophrenia

Background Although schizophrenia patients have been reported to manifest deficits in cognitive flexibility and lower processing speed (measured with i.a., the Color Trails Test, CTT), there still remain a few matters that require further investigation. We have therefore formulated three research aims: 1) to examine the factor structure of CTT in schizophrenia patients and healthy controls, 2) to compare different CTT performance measures in the two groups, 3) to investigate the relationship between these measures and selected psychopathological symptoms in the patient group. Methods Sixty-seven patients with paranoid schizophrenia and 67 healthy controls, matched for gender, age, number of years of education, and overall cognitive functioning underwent assessment of cognitive flexibility and processing speed with the CTT. Results Factor analysis of CTT variables based on the principal component method revealed a four-factor solution in both groups. Compared with healthy controls, the patients performed poorer on CTT 1 time, CTT 2 time, 2-1 difference, prompts in CTT 2, and had higher regression factor scores for Factor 1 (reflecting the slower speed of perceptual tracking). Furthermore, significant links were found between some CTT measures, and negative and disorganization symptoms. Conclusions Schizophrenia patients exhibit problems with speed of perceptual tracking and executive processes dependent on processing speed. Our results may be useful for the development of neuropsychological diagnostic methods for schizophrenia patients. It seems that, compared to other CTT indices, CTT 1 time, CTT 2 time, and 2-1 difference are more appropriate measures of cognitive performance in schizophrenia patients.
RESEARCH ON FACTORS AFFECTING ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE, OPERATING MECHANISM AND AUDIT QUALITY: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY IN VIETNAM

This research aims to determine factors affecting and the level of their influence on or-ganizational structure, operating mechanism and audit quality in the Vietnamese market. In this paper, the methodology used by the authors is mixed method.Combination of the qualitative re-search method and the quantitative research method on the basis of meta-analysis and synthesis of existing information from various sources and results of interviews carried out in early 2018 using a questionnaire for 270 auditors who now work at audit firms in Vietnam. The results of the research showed that factors affecting the operating mechanism of audit firms include the legal system, quality control and internal corporate governance. Factors affecting the audit quality are the organizational structure and the operating mechanism of audit firms. Among these factors, the operating mechanism has the greatest impact on and plays a decisive role in the audit quality. In addition, the research showed that factors affecting the organizational structure of audit firms in Vietnam are unobvious
A validated description of age and growth of western Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus)

Current stock assessments of western Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) use age-structured population analyses, but the age assignment in the population model is made using an age–length relationship derived from mark and recapture studies largely completed during the 1970s. In our study, the deposition of bomb radiocarbon was used as a dated mark to validate age inferences of bluefin tuna and to compare the validated ages with those predicted from the age–length relationship. The results support the view that the age–length relationship currently in use for the assessment overestimates growth rate and the ultimate size of the fish. These findings have implications for the estimation of stock productivity and may negatively impact the rebuilding schedules established by fisheries managers.
Even a Pooled Analysis Does Not Resolve the Debate of Electrophysiology Testing in Brugada Syndrome.

Since the first description,1 investigative work into the pathophysiology and clinical management of Brugada syndrome (BrS) has been active. Like other channelopathies, BrS is a cause of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in young, otherwise healthy, individuals. Initially attributed to the loss of sodium channel function, BrS has also been attributed to the loss of calcium channel function. Thus, the disease is not solely a sodium channelopathy, but rather related to an imbalance between inward and outward currents during phase 1 of the action potential. The hallmark ECG feature is a type 1 pattern of a coved ST-segment elevation of ≥2 mm followed by a negative T wave, present in >1 right precordial lead (V1 through V3), occurring either spontaneously or provoked with a sodium channel antagonist. However, the ECG in BrS can demonstrate type 1, 2, or 3 patterns, or be normal; and these changes can occur either spontaneously or be related to autonomic tone, physiological parameters (eg, fever), and ECG lead position. BrS, therefore, is a dynamic disease, influenced by ethnicity, sex, genotype, autonomic tone, regionally abnormal myocardium,2 and varied physiological and pharmacological stimuli. With this interplay of pathophysiology, risk stratification of patients with BrS ECG pattern is challenging. Programmed electric stimulation (PES) has been reported to be a useful tool for risk stratification; however, this recommendation is controversial.3–11 Article see p 622 In this issue of Circulation , Sroubek et al12 report on the relationship between inducible malignant ventricular arrhythmias with PES and future occurrence of the primary outcome, defined as SCA or appropriate implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) shock therapy. The database consists of multicenter pooled participant-level data from prospective studies identified from a literature search. Included patients were those who underwent PES, who had a spontaneous or sodium channel …
Effect of superdosing phytase on productive performance and egg quality in laying hens

Objective An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of superdosing phytase on productive performance and egg quality in laying hens. Methods A total of 200 42-wk-old Hy-Line Brown laying hens were allotted into 1 of 5 dietary treatments with 5 replicates consisting of 8 hens per replicate. The positive control (PC) and negative control diets (NC) were prepared based on the recommended P levels in layer diets. Supplemental phytase was added to the negative control diet at 10,000 (SD10), 20,000 (SD20), or 30,000 (SD30) fytase units (FTU)/kg. Productive performance was summarized for 6 weeks from 42 weeks to 47 weeks of age. Egg quality was assessed from 4 eggs per replicate randomly collected at the conclusion of the experiment. Results The SD20 treatment had greater (p<0.05) hen-day egg production than PC, NC, and SD10 treatment groups. There was no difference in hen-day egg production between SD20 and SD30 treatment groups. However, SD30 treatment had greater (p<0.05) hen-day egg production than PC treatment, but showed no difference in hen-day egg production as compared to NC and SD10 treatment groups. However, egg weight, egg mass, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio were not affected by dietary treatments. Egg quality including eggshell strength, eggshell color, egg yolk color, and haugh unit was not influenced by dietary treatments. Conclusion Superdosing level of 20,000 FTU/kg phytase in diets has a positive effect on egg production rate, but no beneficial effect on egg quality in laying hens.
Condylar asymmetry in bilateral posterior crossbite patients.

OBJECTIVE To investigate whether patients with bilateral posterior crossbite have asymmetrically developed condyles. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study group consisted of 75 patients with bilateral posterior crossbite, and a control group of 75 subjects with normal occlusion. Condylar, ramal, and condylar plus ramal asymmetry values were computed for all of the subjects on orthopantomograms. Data were analyzed statistically by means of paired t-test and Student's t-test. RESULTS The patients with bilateral posterior crossbite had more asymmetrical condyles relative to the controls. However, there were no statistically significant differences in condylar, ramal, or condylar plus ramal heights between left and right sides in both the control and crossbite groups. CONCLUSION Patients with bilateral posterior crossbite can have asymmetrical condyles and might be at risk for the development of future skeletal mandibular asymmetries.