Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Investigations on copper and phosphorus deficiency associated post-parturient hemoglobinuria in dairy animals and clinical management with antioxidants

Post-parturient hemoglobinuria (PPH), is reported as one of the important metabolic condition in high yielding cattle and buffaloes cA total of 40 dairy animals which were affected with hemoglobinuria were selected from field cases. Clinical examination and color of urine before and after treatment in animals were used as evaluation criteria for recovery in affected dairy animals. In group A, sodium acid phosphate (Inj.Alphos-40TM) 200-250 and 120g of dicalcium phosphate were given i/v and orally b.i. d, respectively, for seven days. In group B, N-acetyl cysteine (Mucolator) was given IV @ 8 mg bid and vitamin C (Tab C-Cone 10g) were given intravenously and orally, respectively. The body temperature was subnormal to normal in post parturient hemoglobinuria affected animals in the present study. There were significant differences in TPR values in group A and Group B after treatment. Serum Ca level (7.41±0.99) increased with a significant difference after the treatment (11.0280±0.44081) in group A. In group B, a significant rise was found in mean serum P level before (2.90±0.73) and after (5.67±0.06) the treatment. Serum Ca level (5.6740±0.06142) increased with a significant difference after (9.84±0.17) the treatment in group B. Mean serum P level displayed significant difference (6.19±0.19) in group A and group B (5.67±0.06). Mean serum cu concentration in positive cases (0.584±0.114)μg/dl showed significant deficiency of the trace mineral in the study area. In group A, RBCs, platelet count, Hb and PCV showed a significant improvement (P˂0.05) after treatment. Similarly, a significant difference (P˂0.05) was found in hematological values after the treatment in group B. Hypophosphatemia and hypocupremia was a constant feature in all cases of hemoglobinuria in the present study. It is worth mentioning that both treatment protocols corrected hypophosphatemia adequately in PPH affected animals, but treatment with Sodium acid phosphate and DCP was successful in restoring serum phosphorus level and hematological values in haemoglobinuria cases followed by treatment with Mucolator combined with Tab. C-Cone.
Women's perceptions of pharmacist‐prescribed hormonal contraception

Unintended pregnancy is a public health issue, with young women in their late teens and early 20s at highest risk. Multiple approaches to increasing contraception access have been implemented, including adoption of statewide pharmacist prescribing legislation in multiple states. Indiana does not currently have such legislation in place. The objective of this study was to identify how women at risk for unintended pregnancy in central Indiana perceive pharmacist prescribing of contraception.
Methodological standards, quality of reporting and regulatory compliance in animal research on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review

Objectives The amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) research community was one of the first to adopt methodology guidelines to improve preclinical research reproducibility. We here present the results of a systematic review to investigate how the standards in this field changed over the 10-year period during which the guidelines were first published (2007) and updated (2010). Methods We searched for papers reporting ALS research on SOD1 (superoxide dismutase 1) mice published between 2005 and 2015 on the ISI Web of Science database, resulting in a sample of 569 papers to review, after triage. Two scores—one for methodological quality, one for regulatory compliance—were built from weighted sums of separate sets of items, and subjected to multivariable regression analysis, to assess how these related to publication year, type of study, country of origin and journal. Results Reporting standards improved over time. Of papers published after the first ALS guidelines were made public, fewer than 9% referred specifically to these. Of key research parameters, only three (genetic background, number of transgenes and group size) were reported in >50% of the papers. Information on housing conditions, randomisation and blinding was absent in over two-thirds of the papers. Group size was among the best reported parameters, but the majority reported using fewer than the recommended sample size and only two studies clearly justified group size. Conclusions General methodological standards improved gradually over a period of 8–10 years, but remained generally comparable with related fields with no specific guidelines, except with regard to severity. Only 11% of ALS studies were classified in the highest severity level (animals allowed to reach death or moribund stages), substantially below the proportion in studies of comparable neurodegenerative diseases such as Huntington’s. The existence of field-specific guidelines, although a welcome indication of concern, seems insufficient to ensure adherence to high methodological standards. Other mechanisms may be required to improve methodological and welfare standards.
Maintenance of pegylated liposomal doxorubicin/carboplatin in patients with advanced ovarian cancer: randomized study of an Asian Gynecologic Oncology Group

Objectives An Asian Gynecologic Oncology Group phase III randomized trial was conducted to determine whether maintenance chemotherapy could improve progression-free survival (PFS) in stages III/IV ovarian cancer. Methods Between 2007 and 2014, 45 newly-diagnosed ovarian cancer patients were enrolled after complete remission and randomized (1:1) to arm A (4-weekly carboplatin area under the curve 4 and pegylated liposomal doxorubicin [PLD] 30 mg/m2, n=24) for 6 cycles or arm B (observation, n=21). The primary end-point was PFS. A post hoc translational study was conducted to deep sequence BRCA/homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) genes, because BRCA/HRD mutations (BRCA/HRDm) are known to be associated with better prognosis. Results Enrollment was slow, accrual was closed when 7+ years had passed. With a median follow-up of 88.9 months, the median PFS was significantly better in arm A (55.5 months) than arm B (9.2 months) (hazard ratio [HR]=0.40; 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.19–0.87; p=0.020), yet the median overall survival was not significantly different in arm A (not reached) than arm B (95.1 months) (p=0.148). Overall grade 3/4 adverse events were more frequent in arm A than arm B (60.9% vs 0.0%) (p<0.001). Quality of life was generally not significantly different. Distribution of BRCA1/2m or BRCA/HRDm was not significantly biased between the two arms. Wild-type BRCA/non-HRD subgroup seemed to fare better with maintenance therapy (HR=0.35; 95% CI=0.11–1.18; p=0.091). Conclusions Despite limitations in small sample size, it suggests that maintenance carboplatin-PLD chemotherapy could improve PFS in advanced ovarian cancer.
Effects of the glial modulator palmitoylethanolamide on chronic pain intensity and brain function

Background: Chronic neuropathic pain (NP) is a complex disease that results from damage or presumed damage to the somatosensory nervous system. Current treatment regimens are often ineffective. The major impediment in developing effective treatments is our limited understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Preclinical evidence suggests that glial changes are crucial for the development of NP and a recent study reported oscillatory activity differences within the ascending pain pathway at frequencies similar to that of cyclic gliotransmission in NP. Furthermore, there is evidence that glial modifying medications may be effective in treating NP. The aim of this Phase I open-label clinical trial is to determine whether glial modifying medication palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) will reduce NP and whether this is associated with reductions in oscillatory activity within the pain pathway. Methods: We investigated whether 6 weeks of PEA treatment would reduce pain and infra-slow oscillatory activity within the ascending trigeminal pathway in 22 individuals (17 females) with chronic orofacial NP. Results: PEA reduced pain in 16 (73%) of the 22 subjects, 11 subjects showed pain reduction of over 20%. Whilst both the responders and non-responders showed reductions in infra-slow oscillatory activity where orofacial nociceptor afferents terminate in the brainstem, only responders displayed reductions in the thalamus. Furthermore, functional connections between the brainstem and thalamus were altered only in responders. Conclusion: PEA is effective at relieving NP. This reduction is coupled to a reduction in resting oscillations along the ascending pain pathway that are likely driven by rhythmic astrocytic gliotransmission.
Orthostatic hypotension and dementia incidence: links and implications

Abstract Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a common condition, particularly in patients with α-synucleinopathies such as Parkinson’s disease, and has a significant impact on activities of daily living and quality of life. Recent data suggest an association with cognitive impairment. Herein, we review the evidence that OH increases the odds of incident mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Potential mechanisms underlying the putative relationship are discussed, including cerebral hypoperfusion, supine hypertension, white matter hyperintensities, and neurodegeneration. Finally, we highlight the challenges with respect to treatment and the negative impact on the quality of life and long-term prognosis presented by the coexistence of OH and dementia. Large population-based studies have reported that OH is associated with about a 20% increased risk of dementia in the general population, while smaller cohort studies suggest an even greater effect in patients with α-synucleinopathies (3- to 7-fold higher than controls). Ultimately, OH exposure is difficult to quantify, predominantly limited to pressure regulation during a one-time orthostatic challenge, and the causative association with dementia may turn out to be bidirectional, especially in α-synucleinopathies. Early diagnosis and treatment of OH may improve long-term prognosis.
APR-246 alone and in combination with a phosphatidylserine-targeting antibody inhibits lung metastasis of human triple-negative breast cancer cells in nude mice

Background Approximately 15–20% of all human breast cancers are classified as triple-negative because they lack estrogen and progesterone receptors and Her-2-neu, which are commonly targeted by chemotherapeutic drugs. New treatment strategies are therefore urgently needed to combat triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs). Almost 80% of the triple-negative tumors express mutant p53 (mtp5), a functionally defective tumor suppressor protein. Whereas wild-type p53 (wtp53) promotes cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis and inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor-dependent angiogenesis, mtp53 fails to regulate these functions, resulting in tumor vascularization, growth, resistance to chemotherapy, and metastasis. Restoration of p53 function is therefore a promising drug-targeted strategy for suppressing TNBC metastasis. Methods APR-246 is a small-molecule drug that reactivates mtp53, thereby restoring p53 function. In this study, we sought to determine whether administration of APR-246, either alone or in combination with 2aG4, an antibody that targets phosphatidylserine residues on tumor blood vessels and disrupts tumor vasculature, effectively inhibits stem cell-like characteristics of tumor cells and migration in vitro, and metastasis of human mtp53-expressing TNBC cells to the lungs in mouse models. Results APR-246 reduced both the stem cell-like properties and migration of TNBC cells in vitro. In mouse models, administration of either APR-246 or 2aG4 reduced metastasis of TNBC cells to the lungs; a combination of the two diminished lung metastasis to the same extent as either agent alone. Combination treatment significantly reduced the incidence of lung metastasis compared either single agent alone. Conclusion Metastasis of human mtp53-expressing TNBC cells to the lungs of nude mice is inhibited by the treatment that combines activation of mtp53 with targeting of phosphatidylserine residues on tumor blood vessels. We contend therefore that our findings strongly support the use of combination treatment involving mtp53 activation and immunotherapy in patients with TNBC.
An Assessment of Handover Culture and Preferred Information in the Transitions of Care of Elderly Patients

Introduction Transitions of care for elderly patients in long term care (LTC) to the emergency department (ED) is fraught with communication challenges. Information preferred during these transitions has not been agreed upon. We sought to understand our local handover culture and identify what information is preferred in the transitions of care of these patients. Methods We performed a cross-sectional electronic survey that was distributed to 1470 healthcare providers (HCPs) and 82 patient and family advocates (PFAs) in two Canadian cities. The HCP group consisted of physicians and nurses in ED and LTC settings as well as paramedics. The survey was open for a period of one month with formal reminders sent weekly. Results A total of 12.9% of HCPs and 26.8% of PFAs responded to the survey. Only 41.3% of HCP respondents were aware of existing handover protocols and 83.2% indicated a desire for a single page handover form. HCPs identified concerns over handover culture surrounding workplace inefficiencies and increased demands to their time. Several preferred items of information in the transitions of care for the institutionalized elderly patient were also identified across both HCP and PFA groups. Conclusions Our study identified a need for improved local handover culture in transitions of care for the institutionalized elderly patient. We also identified the preferred elements of information during bilateral communication between LTC and the ED. Our results will be used to design a patient-centred handover form for future use in this population.
Dynamics of endothelial dysfunction indices before and after operation in patients with varicose disease of the lower extremities

The aim of the study is to examine the correlation between the endothelial dysfunction indices and the clinical class of the disease before and after the operation in patients with varicose disease of the lower extremities. Materials and methods. In total, 69 patients with varicose disease of the lower extremities were examined, with preoperative and long-term postoperative measurements of homocysteine, nitrotyrosine and eNOS by the immunoassay analysis. Results. The results of dynamic changes in endothelial dysfunction indices in 69 patients with varicose disease of the lower extremities, examined before and after an operation, were analyzed. A significant correlation between the mean values of homocysteine, nitrotyrosine and eNOS with the clinical class of lower extremity varicose vein disease (LEVVD) has been determined. Conclusions. A significant decrease in the indices of homocysteine, nitrotyrosine and increased eNOS was observed long term following operation compared to the initial values before it. It has been established that the homocysteine values were relatively stronger correlated with the patient's age than with the LEVVD clinical class, and nitrotyrosine and eNOS were relatively higher correlated with the LEVVD class than with the patients’ age.
Efficacy and Safety of Atlantoaxial Fluoroscopy-guided Pedicle Screw Fixation in Patients Younger Than 12 Years: A Radiographic and Clinical Assessment.

STUDY DESIGN A retrospective clinical study. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fluoroscopy-guided atlantoaxial pedicle screw fixation in patients younger than 12 years. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA C1-C2 pedicle screw fixation is a widely accepted treatment method for atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD). However, data regarding its use for atlantoaxial fusion (AAF) in children are limited. METHODS Thirty-six consecutive patients younger than 12 years underwent C1-C2 pedicle screw fixation for AAD between 2007 and 2017. Anatomical parameters of the C1 pedicle were measured on preoperative computed tomography (CT). Accuracy of pedicle screw fixation was assessed on postoperative CT using the following definitions: Type I, screw threads completely within the bone; Type II, less than half the diameter of the screw violating the surrounding cortex; and Type III, clear violation of the transverse foramen or spinal canal. Demographic, surgical, radiation dose, and clinical data were recorded. RESULTS Patients underwent 144 screw fixations (67 C1 pedicle screws, 68 C2 pedicle screws, 5 C1 lateral mass screws, and 4 C-2 laminar screws) for a variety of pediatric AADs, with 36.5 ± 8.5 months of follow-up. Among the 135 pedicle screws, 96.3% were deemed "safe" (Type I or II) and 80.7% (109/135) of the screws were rated as being ideal (Type I); five screws (3.7%) were identified as unacceptable (Type III). Average estimated blood loss (EBL) was 92 mL, and the average total radiation exposure during the operation was 6.2 mGy (in the final 26 cases). There were no neurovascular injuries. All patients showed radiographic stability and symptom resolution. CONCLUSION C1-C2 pedicle screw fixation under fluoroscopy is safe and effective for the treatment of AAD in children younger than 12 years. However, it may be technically challenging owing to the special anatomical features of children and should be performed by experienced surgeons. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3.
Dietary practices in type 2 diabetes patients at Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh: a cross-sectional study

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a rapidly growing health problem in India. Diet and physical activity are important modifiable risk factors affecting the incidence, severity and management of DM. The aim of the study was to assess diet of diabetes mellitus patients. 87 adults from a cohort of diabetic patients attending the Medical Clinics at the Hamidia Hospital Bhopal were invited for the study.Methods: Information about their nutritional status & food consumption pattern was taken by 24-hour dietary recall and food frequency questionnaire. Data was analysed using Epi Info and MS Excel. Frequency counts and percentages were used to describe the demographic characteristics of the participants while the significance difference in between male and female participants. The significance level was set at P <0.05 and 0.01. Statistical analysis used: MS Excel and Epi Info.Results: The study sample was 87 out of which 56 were females and 31 were males; mean age of DM patients was 48.21±12.98. The mean energy intake was 1386.52 kcal and 1125.79 kcal among male and female. The mean protein intake was 68.71 g and 50.50 among male and female diabetics. There was significant difference between male and female age. There were no significant difference in body mass index and waist hip ratio between male and female. 30 (34.5%) & 16 (18.4%) were overweight and obese respectively.Conclusions: Based on these findings, the dietary practices of diabetic patients are inadequate and require improvement. Education and counselling about diet of a diabetes patient is needed.
A prospective study on response to treatment of patients with temporomandibular dysfunction: A clinical study

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) affect a big proportion of the population. It is multifactorial in origin. The clarification of its associated factors is crucial. Early determination of TMD accompanied with suitable treatment may give good response. The aim of this study is to identify the relationship between demographic parameters, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, detection and treatment with review outcomes. Study sample consists of 71 patients attended Oral Medicine and Oral Pathology clinic. Demographic parameters (age, gender, and profession) were recorded. TMD staging was done based on Wilkes system. Treatment including self-education, occlusal splint, and medication were proposed to patients based on their signs and symptoms. Prosthetic rehabilitation was indicated for free-end extension ridge. Treatment outcomes measure recommended by the International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (IAOMS) was used. Age shows significant relationship with the signs and symptoms of TMD (p <0.05). Association between signs and symptoms, diagnosis and stage of detection with the given treatment (p < 0.05) was acquired. Significant correlation existed between signs and symptoms before and after treatment (r = - 0.452). The stage of detection exhibited significant relationship with review outcome. It was worth noted that the outcome during review visit depended on the treatment given according to the signs and symptoms, which were influenced by demographic parameters (p < 0.05). This study had successfully manifested the relationship between demographic parameters, the signs and symptoms complained by TMD patients, the diagnosis, the detection, treatment proposed with findings during review.
Converging and Differential Brain Phospholipid Dysregulation in the Pathogenesis of Repetitive Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Alzheimer’s Disease

Repetitive mild traumatic brain injury (rmTBI) is a major epigenetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The precise nature of how rmTBI leads to or precipitates AD pathology is currently unknown. Numerous neurological conditions have shown an important role for dysfunctional phospholipid metabolism as a driving factor for the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. However, the precise role in rmTBI and AD remains elusive. We hypothesized that a detailed phospholipid characterization would reveal profiles of response to injury in TBI that overlap with age-dependent changes in AD and thus provide insights into the TBI-AD relationship. We employed a lipidomic approach examining brain phospholipid profiles from mouse models of rmTBI and AD. Cortex and hippocampal tissue were collected at 24 h, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months post-rmTBI, and at ages representing ‘pre’, ‘peri’ and ‘post’ onset of amyloid pathology (i.e., 3, 9, 15 months-old). Total levels of phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), LysoPE, and phosphatidylinositol (PI), including their monounsaturated, polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acid (FA) containing species were significantly increased at acute and/or chronic time points post-injury in both brain regions. However, levels of most phospholipid species in PS1/APP mice were nominal in the hippocampus, while in the cortex, levels were significantly decreased at ages post-onset of amyloid pathology. Sphingomyelin and LysoPC levels showed coincidental trends in our rmTBI and AD models within the hippocampus, an increase at acute and/or chronic time points examined. The ratio of arachidonic acid (omega-6 FA) to docosahexaenoic acid (omega-3 FA)-containing PE species was increased at early time points in the hippocampus of injured versus sham mice, and in PS1/APP mice there was a coincidental increase compared to wild type littermates at all time points. This study demonstrates some overlapping and diverse phospholipid profiles in rmTBI and AD models. Future studies are required to corroborate our findings in human post-mortem tissue. Investigation of secondary mechanisms triggered by aberrant downstream alterations in bioactive metabolites of these phospholipids, and their modulation at the appropriate time-windows of opportunity could help facilitate development of novel therapeutic strategies to ameliorate the neurodegenerative consequences of rmTBI or the potential triggering of AD pathogenesis by rmTBI.