Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
137Cs content in the fruit bodies of various Tuber species.

In this research, the concentration of 137Cs in the fruit bodies of the Tuber species T. magnatum Pico, T. borchii Vitt. , T. aestivum Vitt. , and T. excavatum Vitt. collected in three different regions of Italy was determined. The values obtained have been compared to the soil concentration of 137Cs, and the transfer factor was determined. The radiocesium content of the examined fruit bodies ranged from 2.5 Bq kg(-1) to 33.3 Bq kg(-1) fresh weight; the median transfer factor values of the four species ranged between 0.06 and 0.6. Our findings indicate that the radiocesium level in truffles from these regions of Italy is generally low, and, thus, their consumption is not of radiological concern. The results may suggest certain hypotheses as to the mechanisms involved in radiocesium uptake in these fungi.
Time course of radiometric detection of positive blood cultures in childhood.

We have determined the time course of radiometric detection of microbial growth in 2348 positive blood culture specimens obtained at Wyler Children's Hospital during a 5-year interval. Overall 72 and 88% of isolates were detected within 48 and 72 hours after sampling, respectively. For pathogenic organisms aerobic detection was generally more rapid and more inclusive than anaerobic detection. At 48 hours of incubation the detection of six potential pathogens (Salmonella sp., Haemophilus influenzae, Group D streptococci, Neisseria meningitidis, coagulase-negative staphylococci, Candida sp.) was significantly delayed compared with detection of other pathogenic organisms recovered from blood. At 72 hours of incubation the detection rates remained less than 95% for H. influenzae, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella sp. , coagulase-negative staphylococci, Group D streptococci and Candida sp. These data should assist clinical decisions regarding duration of antibiotic therapy for the presumptive diagnosis of bacteremia in children.
A candidate for a Tibeto-Burman innovation

Based on a survey of 21 languages chosen to represent the diversity of Sino-Tibetan, this paper proposes that all Sino-Tibetan languages except Chinese have lost a phonological distinction between two Proto-Sino-Tibetan codas, *-q (Old Chinese *-ʔ, dialectally *-k) and *-k (Old Chinese *-k): the two codas merged as *-k in Proto-Tibeto-Burman. It is shown that the Proto-Sino-Tibetan *-q/*-k distinction as reflected in Old Chinese is correlated with the same distinction in Proto-Austronesian.
Downlink coverage analysis of n-tier heterogeneous cellular networks based on clustered stochastic geometry

Assuming a connected base station at the point of reference (or origin) in the tier of interest, we derive an expression for the downlink probability of coverage over a heterogeneous network, wherein the base station locations result from different point processes, such as Poisson point and Poisson cluster processes. Numerical results show increasing the base station density in each tier lowers the coverage probability, but not as much as increasing the coverage threshold does. We also provide lower and upper bounds for the coverage probability in a two-tier heterogeneous network modeled with Poisson point and cluster processes, and evaluate the effect on those bounds when changing the various parameter values. These results are of potential use for future cellular heterogeneous network designs.
Capsaicin‐sensitive neurogenic sensory vasodilatation in the dura mater of the rat

The neurogenic sensory vascular responses of the dura mater encephali are considered to contribute significantly to the mechanisms of meningeal nociception and headache. Although the fundamental role of capsaicin‐sensitive afferent nerves in the development of the neurogenic inflammatory responses of a variety of tissues is well established, their participation in meningeal vascular reactions is unclear. In the present study, the effects of the topical application of capsaicin on the dural blood flow and on the morphology of the dural nerve fibres were examined in control and capsaicin‐pretreated rats by means of laser Doppler flowmetry and electron microscopy, respectively. In the control rats, the dural application of capsaicin at concentrations of 50 and 100 nm induced significant increases in blood flow in the branches of the medial meningeal artery. This capsaicin‐induced vasodilatation was abolished by capsazepine, a transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) receptor antagonist, and by hCGRP8–37, a calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist. Administration of capsaicin at higher concentrations (1 and 10 μm) resulted in marked, dose‐dependent decreases in dural blood flow. The capsaicin‐induced vasodilatation was abolished, whereas vasoconstriction was augmented, by systemic pretreatment of the animals with capsaicin. Electron microscopy revealed degenerating unmyelinated axons in the dura mater after an acute exposure to capsaicin (10 μm), providing support for the existence and possible functional role of capsaicin‐sensitive dural afferent nerves. The results indicate that capsaicin‐induced vasodilatation in the rat dura mater is mediated by the release of CGRP from the sensory nerves, whereas the vasoconstrictor response may be attributed to a direct action of capsaicin on the vascular smooth muscle. The present study demonstrates for the first time that capsaicin‐sensitive nociceptive afferent nerves contribute significantly to the dural vasodilatory responses and suggests an important role in meningeal nociception.
Quantitative Label-Free Animal Sperm Imaging by Means of Digital Holographic Microscopy

A digital holographic microscope (DHM) has been employed in the retrieval and analysis of morphological images of bovine's sperm cells. Digital holography is a noncontact technique capable of investigating the shape of the sample without altering its characteristics and has been used for the first time in retrieving quantitative morphological information of sperm cells. Different spermatozoa have been analyzed by means of this technique allowing us to obtain 3-D images with precise topographical details and valuable information about morphological defects, provided with biological considerations. Moreover, by making use of a microfluidic system, the digital holographic technique has been employed to analyze unstained spermatozoa in their natural physiological surroundings. Detailed information on morphological images of spermatozoa acquired by DHM is expected to provide a better understanding of various reproductive pathways, which, in turn, can help in improving infertility management. This could constitute the basis of an alternative method for the zoothecnic industry aimed at the investigation of morphological features and the sorting of the motile sperm cells.
On the performance of adaptive modulation in cellular systems

Adaptive modulation techniques have the potential to substantially increase the spectrum efficiency and to provide different levels of service to users, both of which are considered important for third-generation cellular systems. In this work, we propose a general framework to quantify the potential gains of such techniques. Specifically, we study the throughput performance gain that may be achieved by combining adaptive modulation and power control. Our results show that: (1) using adaptive modulation even without any power control provides a significant throughput advantage over using signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) balancing power control and (2) combining adaptive modulation and a suitable power control scheme leads to a significantly higher throughput as compared to no power control or using SINR-balancing power control. The first observation is especially important from an implementation point of view. Adjusting the modulation level without changing the transmission power requires far fewer measurements and feedback as compared to the SINR-balancing power control or the optimal power control. Hence, it is significantly easier to implement. Although presented in the context of adaptive modulation, the results also apply to other variable rate transmission techniques, e.g., rate adaptive coding schemes, coded modulation schemes, etc. This work provides valuable insight into the performance of variable rate transmission techniques in multi-user environments.
Over-the-scope clip to close a fistula after removing a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube

(PEG) feeding is indicated in patients with increased nutritional requirements, such as patients with cystic fibrosis [1]. Refractory gastrocutaneous fistulas are a recognised complication following PEG tube removal. We describe the case of a patient with a nonhealing gastrocutaneous fistula that was successfully closed using an over-the-scope clip (OTSC). Following PEG tube removal, a patient with cystic fibrosis had a persistent discharge and discomfort from a nonhealing gastrocutaneous fistula for 4 months (●" Fig. 1). An endoscopy was performed, and the gastric aspect of the fistula was successfully closed using three Resolution endoscopic clips (Boston Scientific, USA) (●" Fig. 2). After 2 weeks of symptomatic relief, the patient’s symptoms recurred. Follow-up endoscopy revealed the absence of the initial clips, and so an alternative OTSC (Ovesco Endoscopy GmbH, Tübingen, Germany) was used (●" Fig. 3). The margins of the fistula were apposed with graspers, and the clip then deployed by using the external hand wheel, with the patient under conscious sedation with midazolam (●" Fig. 4 and 5). Immediate closure of the fistula was confirmed by the inability to flush water through the tract into the stomach. The patient was asymptomatic for 18 weeks, after which he developed further symptoms requiring elective surgical intervention. Several methods have been described for closing nonhealing gastrocutaneous fistulas, including endoscopic clips, fibrin sealant, sutures, and a combination of these techniques [2,3]. Clip retention is a desirable property of endoscopic clips in this setting. Resolution clips have been reported to have significantly higher long-term retention than other commercially available clips [4], but despite their use in this patient, his symptoms recurred. However, wound healing was likely to be affected by the patient’s underlying disease. The OTSC has been described for use in natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery [5]. OTSCs appear to be effective for closing acute perforations and fistulas in the short to medium term. This is the first report of the use of OTSCs to treat a nonhealing gastrocutaneous fistula following PEG removal.
Platelet-rich plasma injection is more effective than hyaluronic acid in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY There is increasing use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in orthopaedics as it is a simple, cheap and minimally invasive technique. This study aimed to compare the effects of the use of PRP and hyaluronic acid (HA) injections in the knee of patients diagnosed with and being followed-up for degenerative arthritis. MATERIALS AND METHODS This prospective study included 90 patients with complaints of knee pain with findings of mild or moderate degenerative arthritis. In the PRP group (n=45), one intra-articular injection was applied and in the HA group (n=45), three doses of intra-articular injection were applied. Clinical evaluation was made by Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and a visual pain scale. RESULTS No severe adverse events was observed. Statistically significant better results in the KOOS score and visual pain scale was determined in PRP group than HA group at 3 months and 6 months follow up. The cost of the application for the PRP group was lower than that of the HA group. CONCLUSION The results of this study have shown the application of single dose PRP to be a safe, effective and low-cost method for treating OA. However, further studies are required for a more clear result.
[Ex vivo assessment of coronary lesions by optical coherence tomography and intravascular ultrasound in comparison with histology results].

OBJECTIVE To explore the diagnostic accuracy of optical coherence tomography (OCT) and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) in the detection of ex vivo coronary plaques with different compositions compared with histology results. METHODS OCT and IVUS were performed in 15 autopsied heart specimens and the isolated coronary artery was assessed by routine histological processing thereafter. Coronary plaques were classified into 3 types (lipid-rich plaque, calcified plaque and fibrous plaque) according to standard criteria respectively. Sensitivity and specificity for detection of different types of plaque by OCT and IVUS were calculated according histology results. RESULTS Seventy seven coronary plaques were analyzed. OCT demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of 69% and 88% for lipid-rich plaque, 93% and 92% for calcified plaque, 88% and 98% for fibrous plaque. IVUS demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of 61% and 92%, 98% and 97%, 68% and 90% respectively. The agreement between OCT and IVUS in assessment of coronary plaque was 0.831 (Kappa = 0.72, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Both OCT and IVUS correctly detected ex vivo coronary plaques and there was a good agreement in assessment of coronary plaques between OCT and IVUS. OCT is superior to IVUS in assessment of fibrous plaque and is similar as IVUS in assessment of calcified plaque.
A 1.8V low-jitter CMOS ring oscillator with supply regulation

This paper presents a low-jitter VCO with on-chip supply regulation. Implemented in a digital 0.18/spl mu/m CMOS process, the design uses only the nominal 1.8V supply. The VCO has a tuning range from 72 MHz to 143 MHz and dissipates 11mW. At 140MHz, the VCO has an measured rms cycle jitter of 7.3ps with no supply noise. The benefits of on-chip regulation are demonstrated by superimposing a 200mVpp, 70MHz sine wave on top of the 1.8V power-supply. Without regulation, the jitter increases to 123 ps; with regulation, however, the measured rms cycle jitter is only 9.4ps.
What is outside? The Early Years Foundation Stage in England: Outdoor Facilities, Organisation and Staff Attitudes

The purpose of this paper is to report on the facilities available, organisation of, and staff attitudes to early years outdoor education from schools within the south east of England, focusing on provision for children aged three to five. One component of the successful education of the child involves providing an ‘environment for learning’, including the facilities, layout and routines. This paper presents findings concerning the type and variety of facilities available outside; the various styles of organisation of the space; staff attitudes about: their roles, their aims for the environment, children’s behaviour and learning, and perceived drawbacks to practice. This paper draws on empirical data collected from schools within the University of Reading partnership. The findings suggest that although all early years settings must adhere to the statutory framework there are a range of facilities available, and there are a number of ways this environment is organised. Further there appears to be uncertainty about the adult role outside and the aims for activities. The conclusions drawn indicate that staff do not appear to be linking their aims for outdoor education to the facilities provided or to their actions outside. This means there is not a clear link between what staff provide outside and the declared ambitions for learning. This study is important as all educators need to be certain about their aims for education to ensure best outcomes for children. The implications of these findings for early years teachers are that they need to be able to articulate their aims for outdoor education and to provide the correct facilities to achieve these aims. Finally this study was undertaken to raise debate, posit questions and to ascertain the parameters for further research about the early years outdoor environment.
“Just Say It Like It Is!” Use of a Community-Based Participatory Approach to Develop a Technology-Driven Food Literacy Program for Adolescents

FuelUp&Go! is a technology-driven food literacy program consisting of six in-person skill building sessions as well as fitness trackers, text messages, and a companion website. A community-based participatory research approach was used with adolescents who were recruited to participate in a Kid Council. Qualitative data were collected about the use of surveys, program activities, recipes, technology and text messages, and music and incentives. Changes suggested by Kid Councilmembers informed the design and development of a pilot program. Participants were recruited for the pilot program and completed pre- and postintervention surveys. The results indicated food-related knowledge remained low but increased from baseline to follow-up. Attitudes toward vegetables and physical activity increased slightly. Self-reported participation in physical activity and consumption of sugar-added beverages moved in positive directions. These findings suggest that community-based participatory research approach is an effective approach to engage adolescents in the development of a technology-driven food literacy program.
Comparative activity and functional ecology of permafrost soils and lithic niches in a hyper‐arid polar desert

Permafrost in the high elevation McMurdo Dry Valleys of Antarctica ranks among the driest and coldest on Earth. Permafrost soils appear to be largely inhospitable to active microbial life, but sandstone lithic microhabitats contain a trophically simple but functional cryptoendolithic community. We used metagenomic sequencing and activity assays to examine the functional capacity of permafrost soils and cryptoendolithic communities in University Valley, one of the most extreme regions in the Dry Valleys. We found metagenomic evidence that cryptoendolithic microorganisms are adapted to the harsh environment and capable of metabolic activity at in situ temperatures, possessing a suite of stress response and nutrient cycling genes to fix carbon under the fluctuating conditions that the sandstone rock would experience during the summer months. We additionally identified genes involved in microbial competition and cooperation within the cryptoendolithic habitat. In contrast, permafrost soils have a lower richness of stress response genes, and instead the metagenome is enriched in genes involved with dormancy and sporulation. The permafrost soils also have a large presence of phage genes and genes involved in the recycling of cellular material. Our results underlie two different habitability conditions under extreme cold and dryness: the permafrost soil which is enriched in traits which emphasize survival and dormancy, rather than growth and activity; and the cryptoendolithic environment that selects for organisms capable of growth under extremely oligotrophic, arid and cold conditions. This study represents the first metagenomic interrogation of Antarctic permafrost and polar cryptoendolithic microbial communities.
A Qualitative Study about Cervical Cancer Screening among Latinas Living in a Rural Area of California: Lessons for Health Educators

Abstract Cervical cancer is a major health concern for Latinas, who are also less likely to undergo a Pap smear exam than the general population. This study identifies alterable determinants of Pap smear screening for Latino women living in a rural area of California. It involved the design and pilot testing of a culturally appropriate instrument and the development of semi-structured interviews with 51 Latinas. Qualitative data were analyzed using NUD*IST. Results from this study indicate that the main factors identified by participants as hindering their decision to seek Pap smear exams were long waiting periods, a lack of continuity of care, a perceived lack of quality of care, language differences, and a lack of knowledge regarding how to access the health system. This article provides health educators working in health care settings with an analysis of the cultural and logistic factors influencing health-related decisions in immigrant and rural Latino populations. It also presents some of the lessons that health educators can learn to enhance their professional practice when working with disadvantaged populations.
Tea consumption and the risk for pancreatic cancer.

To the Editor: Iread with great interest the recent article by Lin et al. The authors have reported that green tea consumption does not decrease the risk for pancreatic cancer in Japanese adults. These findings are in sharp contrast to previous retrospective and prospective studies that support a pancreatico-protective effect of tea. For instance, Shibata et al and Whittemore et al in 2 separate studies have shown that increased tea consumption is associated with a corresponding decline in the risk for pancreatic cancer. In fact, Whittemore et al showed that the relative risk for pancreatic cancer was 0.5 among tea drinkers in comparison with non-tea consumers. Similarly, Zatonski et al conducted a case-control study that reported an inverse relationship between tea consumption and pancreatic cancer risk. One possible explanation for the contrary results noted by Lin et al is the possible impact and role of confounding factors such as geography and race. For instance, the study by Whittemore et al included data from students enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania and the Harvard University in the United States, whereas Zatonski et al conducted their study in a European population from the town of Opole in Poland. On the other hand, the study by Lin et al was conducted in a Japanese population. The results of Lin et al are also in sharp contrast to recent in vitro studies by Shankar et al and McMillan et al that show inhibition of pancreatic tumor growth after catechin exposure. One possible explanation for this might be that the daily consumption of catechins in the cohort studied by Lin et al might have been far less than that used in these in vitro studies. This is further corroborated by the findings of Whittemore et al who showed that the relative risk for pancreatic cancer was 0.6 among those who consumed more than 2 cups of tea a day in comparison with those who consumed less than 2 cups of tea daily. Given these contrary results noted by Lin et al, there is a clear need for further larger, transcontinental studies involving different populations and different races to further elucidate and elaborate the exact relationship between pancreatic cancer and tea consumption.
Psoriasis‐Associated Aseptic Pneumonitis: Another Cause of Lung Involvement in Psoriasis

current World Health Organization/ European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (WHO/EORTC) classification. Although CSMTCL is known to have a favourable prognosis, in our patient, lung and lymph nodes involvement with CD30-positive large cells developed more than 10 years after the onset of the disease. To our knowledge, CSMTCL with CD30-positive large-cell transformation has never been reported. Although we believe that there is a high possibility that the CSMTCL were transformed into CD30-positive large-cell lymphoma in our patient, we were unable to exclude another possibility that CD30-positive anaplastic large-cell lymphoma accidentally developed, complicated by CSMTCL. Garcia-Herrera and colleagues have reported five cases of CSMTCL with an aggressive outcome. However, the expression of CD30 in any of these patients was not examined. Additional case reports, especially with a long-term follow up, should be accumulated in order to evaluate the biological behaviour of CSMTCL.