Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a antibody–associated Guillain‐Barré syndrome with a predominantly distal weakness without cranial nerve impairment and sensory disturbance

The serum antibodies to N‐acetylgalactosaminyl GD1a (GalNAc‐GD1a) and other gangliosides as well as to Campylobacter jejuni were determined in 147 patients with Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS). We found a distinctive clinical pattern in patients with anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a antibodies compared with those without the antibodies, that is, lack of cranial nerve involvement (87% versus 38%), distal‐dominant weakness (80% versus 25%), and no sensory disturbance (73% versus 22%). The frequency of distal‐dominant weakness was significantly higher in patients with both C jejuni infection and anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a positivity (100%) than in C jejuni–negative/anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a–positive (25%), C jejuni–positive/anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a–negative (32%) and C jejuni–negative/anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a–negative patients (20%). Lack of cranial nerve involvement and sensory disturbance were found in most C jejuni–positive/anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a–positive and C jejuni–negative/anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a–positive patients, but not in C jejuni–positive/anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a–negative and C jejuni–negative/anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a–negative patients. Although the anti‐GM1–positive/anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a–negative patients mostly (75%) lacked cranial nerve involvement, distal‐dominant weakness (38%) and lack of sensory disturbance (13%) were infrequent. These results may indicate that (1) the combination of C jejuni infection and anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a antibodies, but not anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a, anti‐GM1, or C jejuni infection alone, is associated with a predominantly distal weakness, (2) the presence of anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a, rather than C jejuni infection or anti‐GM1 antibody, is associated with a lack of sensory disturbance, (3) both anti‐GalNAc‐GD1a and anti‐GM1 antibodies are independently associated with a lack of cranial nerve impairment. Ann Neurol 1999;45:758–768
Phosphoproteomic Study of Human Tubular Epithelial Cell in Response to Transforming Growth Factor-Beta-1-Induced Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition

Background: Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an important role in renal fibrosis and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Phosphorylation of proteins is essential to TGF-β signaling. We applied isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) technology to profile the phosphoproteins in tubular epithelial cells in response to TGF-β-induced EMT in order to further study molecular events. Methods: HK-2 cells were treated with TGF-β1 to induce EMT. The cells were divided into a control group (without TGF-β1 treatment) and a TGF-β1-treated group. Phosphoproteins from two groups were extracted and differentially labeled with iTRAQ reagents and processed by 2D-nano-HPLC-MS/MS. Validating of iTRAQ analysis was performed by western blot. Bioinformatic analysis was performed by on-line databases. Results: By iTRAQ-2D-nano-HPLC-MS/MS, 38 differentially expressed phosphoproteins were identified which included 19 up-regulated phosphoproteins and 19 down-regulated phosphoproteins. Western blot confirmed up-regulation of phosphorylated moesin and HSP90α. Bioinformatic analysis suggested that the majority of proteins were located in the nucleus and endoplasmic reticulum lumen. The phosphoproteins were categorized into 17 molecular function classifications. Nucleic acid binding protein, cytoskeletal protein and chaperone were the major categories of molecular function. A biological network was built to analyze interaction between up-regulated proteins. Conclusion: We demonstrate a TGF-β1-mediated post-transcriptional regulation of EMT in tubular epithelial cells. Phosphorylation of moesin and HSP90α might play a role in TGF-β-induced EMT.
A soft‐cache strategy for pathologist's navigation in virtual microscopy

Navigation through large microscopical images demands special characteristics like flexibility to access image data and progressive recovery or relevant information, i.e., several qualities, magnifications, and random accesses to any desired Window of Interest in the Virtual Slide (VS). Nowadays there exist systems that allow such interaction, but with a certain delay, which is dependent on the application. It has been shown that caching or prefetching policies can speed up interaction with these systems. This article presents an optimal soft‐cache strategy, which improves the navigation times in virtual microscopy. The entire method includes an optimal soft‐cache strategy and a dynamical probabilistic model of a pathologist's navigation. This strategy was implemented as a Client‐Server application, using the JPEG2000‐JPIP standard and evaluated using different navigation patterns, namely, four different pathologists exploring 10 VS, stained with different dyes. The present approach was compared with a conventional soft‐cache method and the cache performance improved, in average, in about a 10%. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Shepherding with robots that do not compute

We examine the problem solving capabilities of swarms of computation- and memory-free agents. Each agent has a single line-of-sight sensor providing two bits of information. The agent maps this information directly onto constant motor commands. In previous work, we showed that such simplistic agents can solve tasks requiring them to organize spatially (multi-robot aggregation and circle formation) and manipulate passive objects (clustering). In the present work, we address the shepherding problem, where the computation- and memory-free agents—the shepherds—are tasked to gather and move a group of dynamic agents—the sheep—towards a pre-defined goal. The shepherds and sheep are modelled as e-puck robots using computer simulations. Our findings show that the shepherding problem does not fundamentally require arithmetic computation or memory to be solved. The obtained controller solution is robust with respect to sensory noise, and copes well with changes in the number of sheep.
Token Economy: A Systematic Review of Procedural Descriptions

The token economy is a well-established and widely used behavioral intervention. A token economy is comprised of six procedural components: the target response(s), a token that functions as a conditioned reinforcer, backup reinforcers, and three interconnected schedules of reinforcement. Despite decades of applied research, the extent to which the procedures of a token economy are described in complete and replicable detail has not been evaluated. Given the inherent complexity of a token economy, an analysis of the procedural descriptions may benefit future token economy research and practice. Articles published between 2000 and 2015 that included implementation of a token economy within an applied setting were identified and reviewed with a focus on evaluating the thoroughness of procedural descriptions. The results show that token economy components are regularly omitted or described in vague terms. Of the articles included in this analysis, only 19% (18 of 96 articles reviewed) included replicable and complete descriptions of all primary components. Missing or vague component descriptions could negatively affect future research or applied practice. Recommendations are provided to improve component descriptions.
Effect of diluents on storage of ram semen

Semen collection and sperm evaluation and addition of preservatives for increasing storage of sperm are essential for successful artificial insemination. This study was conducted on 4 rams (2 Ghezel Merinos and 2 Merinos Moghani) rams to evaluate the effect of 2 liquid diluters (1-egg yolkcitrate, 2milk) in Khalat poshan research station. Average age of rams was 2-3 years. After rams were trained to serve the artificial insemination, semen samples were collected weekly. It was started from October 2011 to June 2012. After collected semen was mixed with liquid diluents and was stored in a refrigerator for 8 days. Semen after diluting and storage were assessed for pH, viability and progressive motion. Effect of diluent and storage day on pH, viability and progressive motion of sperm were significant (P< 0.01). With the increasing storage day pH, viability and motility progressive of sperm decreased. The success of diluent of milk has been attributed to its protein fraction, which may act as a buffer against changes in pH and as a chelating agent against any heavy metals present. The success of citrate has been attributed that may act as a buffer against changes in pH. The eggyolk providing protection of sperm against cold shock. This study showed Diluent of citrate-egg yolk had a better sperm protection ability than milk based extenders following 8 day of storage – according to sperm motility, pH and sperm viability
Antifungal Activity of the essential oils of Plectranthus neochilus (Lamiaceae) and Tagetes erecta (Asteraceae) cultivated in Brazil

In recent years, the occurrence of clinical infections has increased dramatically. The considerable use of antifungal agents, there has been a remarkable increase in drug resistance among infections species [1]. The diseases most common caused by fungi are dermatomycoses and aspergillosis, where the dermatomycoses result from superficial fungal infections of the skin, hair, or nails, which could affect the human health and quality of life [2,3] not only in underdeveloped countries but also in elderly and immunocompromised patients worldwide [4]. Over the years, the dermatomycosis has had a considerable increase, being that their treatment is still based on the use of triazoles (fluconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole), imidazoles (ketoconazole), allylamines (terbinafine), and griseofulvin [5]. However, due to the increase in the number of individuals immunocompromised by HIV, transplanted individuals and individuals undergoing cancer treatment, there was a reduction in the number of effective drugs against many dermatopathogens [6]. In Brazil, human fungal infections are prevalent, but these diseases caused by fungi are not officially reportable [7]. About 80% of the cases of infectious pneumonic mortality in immunocompromised patients are caused by invasive aspergillosis (IA), where the health problems caused by Aspergillus include allergic reactions, lung infections, and infections in other organs [8]. Amphotericin is most frequently employed in conventional therapy, but its limited efficacy and poor patient tolerance to side effects culminates in response rates of only about 35% and high mortality [9]. Although the synthetic fungicides are effective, the development of fungal resistance, toxicity to non-target organisms and environmental problems is due to its continuous or repeated application [10]. The search for antifungal compounds from natural sources has increased over the last decade, and plants continue to be a major source of biologically active compounds that may provide lead structures for the development of new drugs [11]. In this scenario, essential oils constitute a rich source of bioactive chemicals and have been recently pointed out as a promising alternative against the pathogenic fungi [12-15].
Regulated nucleocytoplasmic transport in spermatogenesis: a driver of cellular differentiation?

This review explores the hypothesis that regulation of nucleocytoplasmic shuttling is a means of driving differentiation, using spermatogenesis as a model. The transition from undifferentiated spermatogonial stem cell to terminally differentiated spermatozoon is, at its most basic, a change in the repertoire of expressed genes. To effect this, the complement of nuclear proteins, such as transcription factors and chromatin remodelling components must change. Current knowledge of the nuclear proteins and nucleocytoplasmic transport machinery relevant to spermatogenesis is consolidated in this review, and their functional linkages are highlighted not only as a means of regulating nuclear protein composition, but also as a key mechanism regulating gene transcription and hence cell fate. Through this, we hypothesize that male germ cell differentiation is mediated through regulation of nuclear transport machinery components, and thereby of the access of critical factors to the nucleus. The importance of nucleocytoplasmic trafficking to male germ cell differentiation is discussed, using the sex‐determining factors Sry and SOX9, cell cycle regulators, CREM and cofactors and the Smads as specific examples, together with the roles in gametogenesis for particular nuclear transport factors in Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila. BioEssays 27:1011–1025, 2005. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Caries prevalence, oral hygiene and orthodontic status of Saudi Bedouin children.

The objectives of the study were to determine caries prevalence, oral hygiene and orthodontic status of Bedouin children in a desert around Al-Qasseem Region of Saudi Arabia. One hundred and fifty three children were examined for caries, oral hygiene and orthodontic status with mirror and explorer utilizing natural light. These children were divided into two groups for analyses. The primary dentition group consisted of 77 children, 39 (50.6%) male and 38 (49.4%) female with a mean age of 4.0 (+/- 1.4) years. The mixed dentition group consisted of 76 children, 67 (88.2%) male and 9 (11.8%) female with a mean age of 9.7 (+/- 2.9) years. In Primary dentition group, 16 (20.8%) children were caries positive and mean DMFT was 0.91 (+/- 2.42). There was a highly significant relation (p < .001) between oral hygiene and caries. In the mixed dentition group, 15 (19.7%) children were caries positive. The mean DMFT and DMFT scores for these children were 0.72 (+/- 1.96) and 0.74 (+/- 1.48) respectively. There was a significant relation (P > .01) between oral hygiene and caries. One hundred and fifty one (98.6%) children had class I molar relation and 2 (1.4%) children had class II molar relation. Anterior open bite, anterior crossbite and posterior crossbite were found in one case (0.7%) each. The caries experience of these Bedouin children was low both in terms of prevalence and severity. There was a significant relation between oral hygiene and caries. The orthodontic problems were almost nonexistent in the study population.
Male hypogonadism: More than just a low testosterone

Confronted with a low serum testosterone level, physicians should not jump to the diagnosis of hypogonadism, as confirmation and thorough evaluation are warranted before making the diagnosis or starting therapy. This review discusses how to approach the finding of a low testosterone value, stressing the need to confirm the finding, the underlying pathophysiologic processes, drugs that can be responsible, and the importance of determining whether the cause is primary (testicular) or secondary (hypothalamic-pituitary). Confronted with a low serum testosterone level, physicians should not jump to the diagnosis of hypogonadism. Confirmation and thorough evaluation are warranted.
Low Level Laser Therapy: A Panacea for oral maladies.

AIM To review the applications of low level laser therapy on various soft and hard oral tissues. A variety of therapeutic effects of Low Level Laser Therapy have been reported on a broad range of disorders. It has been found amenably practical in dental applications including soft as well as hard tissues of the oral cavity. LLLT has been found to be efficient in acceleration of wound healing, enhanced remodelling and bone repair, regeneration of neural cells following injury, pain attenuation, endorphin release stimulation and modulation of immune system. The aforementioned biological processes induced by Low level lasers have been effectively applied in treating various pathological conditions in the oral cavity. With is article, we attempt to review the possible application of Low Laser Therapy in the field of dentistry.
Assessing angulation on digital images of radiographs of fractures of the distal radius: visual estimation versus computer software measurement

We assessed the reliability of visual estimation of angles on computer images of radiographs, and compared their accuracy with the measurement of angles using computer software for ten distal radius fractures. We asked 73 clinicians to visually estimate the dorsal angulation on ten computerized radiographs of fractures of the distal radius. The reliability of these estimations was calculated. Their accuracy was compared to a ‘gold standard’ obtained by consensus agreement between three consultants measuring these angles using the software. Inter-observer reliability was calculated as ICC = 0.51 and intra-observer reliability as r = 0.76. The visual estimations were less accurate with a mean percentage error of 31% (range, 7–83%). As angulation increased the estimation accuracy improved. Although reliability and accuracy of such estimation was better for clinicians with greater experience, actual measurement was more reliable and accurate.
Ground Fault Overvoltage With Inverter-Interfaced Distributed Energy Resources

Ground fault overvoltage can occur in situations in which a four-wire distribution circuit is energized by an ungrounded voltage source during a single-phase-to-ground fault. The phenomenon is well documented with ungrounded synchronous machines, but there is considerable discussion about whether inverters cause this phenomenon and, consequently, whether inverters require effective grounding. This paper examines the overvoltages that can be supported by inverters during single-phase-to ground faults via theory, simulation, and experiment. It identifies the relevant physical mechanisms, quantifies expected levels of overvoltage, and makes recommendations for optimal mitigation. It concludes that under many circumstances, effective grounding of inverters is not necessary to prevent ground fault overvoltage.
IgAN Superimposed on MCD ; A Case of Dual Glomerulopathy

Minimal Change Disease (MCD) is the most common cause of nephritic syndrome (NS) in children, while IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common form of glomerulo nephritis (GN) worldwide, comprising 45% of all primary GN cases. Patients with IgA nephropathy typically present with hematuria and sub nephritic proteinuria. Nephritic syndrome is uncommon in IgA nephropathy. MCD is responsive to glucocorticoids, while the role of steroids in IgA nephropathy remains unclear. We are presenting this case report of a young patient having unusual clinical presentation & histomorphology of overlapping features of both the disease entities. Un common cases of MCD with nephritic range proteinuria & mesangial IgA deposits exhibit a clinical presentation, biopsy findings and outcome more typical of minimal change disease with superimposed IgA nephropathy . The observed syndrome can be considered a separate entity or subgroup belonging either to IgA nephropathy or MCD.
The Washback Effect of the English National Examination (ENE) on English Teachers’ Classroom Teaching and Students’ Learning

Since 2005, Indonesia has administered the National Examination (NE), from which the result is used as a basis to decide the students’ exit from secondary schools. As a high stake testing, the NE has caused various washback effects, both positive and negative. Consequently, the existence of the NE has been accompanied by heated debates and controversies. The pros believe that the NE may improve secondary education standards, while the cons argue that the NE will create injustice and unnecessary anxiety among the students. However, both the pros and cons base their arguments on common sense not supported by a sound reasoning. The present study tries to explore the washback effects of the English National Examination (ENE) in Indonesian secondary education context, involving three Secondary Schools categorized based on their NE achievement. The results of the study indicate that English teachers and students from the schools involved have different perceptions on the ENE. The English National Examination has an influential impact on teachers’ teaching in the aspect of: activity/time arrangement, teaching materials, teaching contents, teaching methods, teaching strategies, ways of assessing, and on the feelings and attitudes of the students. The ENE also affects the students’ learning in the classroom in which teachers mainly teach to test, practice the test and develop test-taking strategies. The dimensions of the washback effect of the ENE on both English teachers and students are negative and positive, strong, specific and for a short period time.
Confirmation of the Luminous Blue Variable Status of MWC 930

We present spectroscopic and photometric observations of the emission-line star MWC 930 (V446 Sct) during its long-term optical brightening in 2006–2013. Based on our earlier data we suggested that the object has features found in Luminous Blue Variables (LBV), such as a high luminosity (~3 105 ), a low wind terminal velocity (~140 km s−1), and a tendency to show strong brightness variations (1 mag over 20 years). For the last 7 years it has been exhibiting a continuous optical and near-IR brightening along with a change of the emission-line spectrum appearance and cooling of the star’s photosphere. We present the object’s -band light curve, analyze the spectral variations, and compare the observed properties with those of other recognized Galactic LBVs, such as AG Car and HR Car. Overall we conclude the MWC 930 is a bona fide Galactic LBV that is currently in the middle of an S Dor cycle.
The Effects of Latanoprost With Benzalkonium Chloride Versus Travoprost With SofZia on the Ocular Surface

Purpose: To assess ocular surface changes in participants using latanoprost with benzalkonium chloride (Xalatan) and travoprost with SofZia (Travatan Z). Methods: In this prospective, open-label, nonrandomized cohort study, participants were classified into two groups: group 1 (n=28) naive to glaucoma therapy, group 2 (n=27) on previous Xalatan monotherapy in both eyes. Both groups started (or continued) Xalatan in the right eye and Travatan Z in the left eye. Baseline, 1-, and 2-month measurements of tear breakup time (TBUT), corneal staining score, conjunctival staining score, conjunctival hyperemia score, tear production, and intraocular pressure were obtained. The Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire measured participants' comfort and dryness symptoms. Medication preference was recorded. Results: Data were collected from 55 participants. Tear breakup time at baseline and 1-month follow-up in group 1 was significantly longer than that of group 2 (P=0.005). At 2 months, there was no significant difference in TBUT between the two groups (P=0.779). Tear production in group 1 at all three time points was significantly higher than group 2 (P<0.05). Conjunctival staining score at 2 months in group 1 was significantly higher than group 2 (P=0.031). There was no significant difference in other parameters between the groups at any other time point. No significant difference in any parameter was found between Xalatan and Travatan Z (intragroup comparison). Conclusions: Significant differences in ocular surface characteristics were detected between groups, but no significant difference was detected between participants treated with Xalatan and Travatan Z.