Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Clinical Profile of Pediatric COVID-19 Testing in the Emergency Department, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Background The COVID-19 pandemic marked a health and economic crisis of massive proportions. In its early months, literature was centered on adult medical and critical care. As time progressed, international reports of COVID-19 infection in children steadily grew; however, data on disease features in the United Arab Emirates' pediatric population was noticeably lagging. Method The presented research was conducted at Latifa Women and Children Hospital Emergency Department to ascertain an association between a child's presenting features and basic investigations to a subsequent positive COVID-19 test result. Data was collected via electronic medical records and statistical analysis performed with SPSS version 22.0. Results A total of four hundred and five (405) patients were analyzed, with 32 (8%) being COVID-19 positive on initial testing in emergency department. There is a statistically significant correlation (p < 0.05) between testing positive for COVID-19 infection and history of exposure to COVID-19-positive individuals; the presence of runny nose, cough, poor feeding, and abdominal pain with reassuring physical examination findings; and predominantly normal reports of basic blood investigations and chest X-ray images. Conclusion This research demonstrates that a minority of children tested for COVID-19 in the initial wave of the pandemic tested positive. A significant proportion of COVID-19-positive pediatric patients exhibit history of exposure to COVID-19-positive individuals; the presence of runny nose, cough, poor feeding, and abdominal pain; normal physical examination; normal basic blood investigations and chest X-ray findings.
Inefficient Induction of Neutralizing Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 Variants in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease on Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor Therapy after Receiving a Third mRNA Vaccine Dose

Management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often relies on biological and immunomodulatory agents for remission through immunosuppression, raising concerns regarding the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine’s effectiveness. The emergent variants have hindered the vaccine neutralization capacity, and whether the third vaccine dose can neutralize SARS-CoV-2 variants in this population remains unknown. This study aims to evaluate the humoral response of SARS-CoV-2 variants in patients with IBD 60 days after the third vaccine dose [BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) or mRNA-1273 (Moderna)]. Fifty-six subjects with IBD and 12 healthy subjects were recruited. Ninety percent of patients with IBD (49/56) received biologics and/or immunomodulatory therapy. Twenty-four subjects with IBD did not develop effective neutralizing capability against the Omicron variant. Seventy percent (17/24) of those subjects received anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy [10 = adalimumab, 7 = infliximab], two of which had a history of COVID-19 infection, and one subject did not develop immune neutralization against three other variants: Gamma, Epsilon, and Kappa. All subjects in the control group developed detectable antibodies and effective neutralization against all seven SARS-CoV-2 variants. Our study shows that patients with IBD might not be protected against SARS-CoV-2 variants, and more extensive studies are needed to evaluate optimal immunity.
Changes in the adrenal gland and cortisol secretions in experimental acute Trypanosoma brucei brucei infection in Sahel bucks

The effects of experimental acute Trypanosoma brucei brucei infection on the function and structure of the adrenal gland of Sahel bucks were studied for forty days. Eight Sahel bucks aged between 8 and 15 months were used. They were divided into two groups of five (infected) and three (uninfected) bucks. Group I were inoculated with 1ml containing about 1×10⁶ trypanosomes (Trypanosoma brucei brucei, Federe strain) via the jugular vein. Group II was uninfected control. Parasitaemia in the infected bucks appeared 3-4 days post-infection. The mean serum cortisol concentrations of the uninfected control and the infected groups at day 0 were 3.33 ± 0.44 μg/dl and 2.4 ± 0. 29μg/dl, respectively. By day 4 post-infection, the mean serum cortisol concentration of the infected group increased to its peak value of 21.8 ± 6. 25μg/dl compared to 3.0 ± 0.86 μg/dl of the uninfected control on the day all infected bucks became parasitaemic. Grossly, the adrenal glands of the infected group were enlarged. Histopathologically, there was adrenal cortical hypertrophy in the infected group. The results indicate that acute trypanosomosis due to experimental T. brucei brucei infection in Sahel buck caused hypertrophy of the adrenal gland and a significant increase in the circulatory cortisol concentration of the infected bucks at the onset of parasitaemia followed by a decrease to pre-infection cortisol concentration till the end of the 40 days duration of the experiment. Further study on the long-term effect of experimental Trypanosoma brucei brucei infection on the adrenal gland of Sahel bucks is recommended.
The psychological and cognitive factors causing college students’ demotivation to learn English in China

Demotivation is one of the important factors causing students’ failure in learning a language. To explore the psychological and cognitive factors causing college students’ demotivation to learn English in China’s universities and to investigate the relations among these internal factors, this study constructed a shopping cart model by applying grounded theory method and tested the model by using structural equation modeling. This study found three paths underlying students’ demotivation to learn English, originating from large discrepancy between students’ actual and required positioning of English learning, low required positioning of English learning and low value of English learning in students’ minds. Based on these findings, this study gave some pedagogical implications for English teaching.
A multidimensional Eulerian-Lagrangian model to predict organism distribution

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The author wishes to thank several individuals who made the completion of this research possible. First and foremost, I would like to thank my advisor Dr. Larry Weber and co-advisor Dr. Marcela Politano. I would not be where I am today without their assistance and support. Thanks, moreover, are due to Dr. Politano for her kindness, patience and guidance in my research and thesis. Secondly I would like to thank Dr. Jacob Odgaard and my thesis committee. I greatly appreciate all of the committee's constrictive criticism and comments. A special thank is due to my parents and family for always believing in me and encouraging my research and study. I also want to thank my girlfriend Yue; she has been there to motivate and support me through the entire process.
Universal Markers for hiPSCs Residue Detection.

BACKGROUND Residual undifferentiated induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) detection is essential for both Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs) and iPSCs application in final cell therapy products. However, specific differentiated cells require specific genes for residual detection; identifying the suitable marker is costly and time-consuming. Thus, a universal marker for iPSCs residue detection for all three germline cells would greatly benefit PSC-derived cellular therapies. METHODS Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was performed on total RNAs isolated from the iPSC cell lines and embryonic stem cells (H9), the top 30 expressed genes were selected as candidates. By analysis expression fold change comparing iPSC cells to the differentiated cells, seven genes were highly expressed in iPSCs but showed minimal background expression in differentiated cells. Tissue expression pattern of the candidate genes were explored in the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project database, candidate genes were narrowed down to two genes. Spike-in experiments were performed to determine the detection limit and correlation with the number of iPSCs and gene expression by ddPCR. RESULTS By next-generation sequencing (NGS), we identified two marker genes (ESRG and ZSCAN10) suitable for universal undifferentiated iPSC detection. Both ESRG and ZSCAN10 are highly expressed in iPSCs. ZSCAN10 is slightly expressed in the testis, pituitary, and cerebellum; ESRG is highly expressed in the vagina and scarcely expressed in the other tissues. Furthermore, the ddPCR method with a probe and primers for ESRG and ZSCAN10 detected a trace of undifferentiated hiPSCs to a spiked level of 0.0001%. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that targeting ESRG/ZSCAN10 transcripts is highly sensitive, quantitative, and could be broadly applied to quality control of almost all iPSC-derived cell therapy products.
Fractionally sampled decorrelating detectors for time-varying rayleigh fading CDMA channels

FRACTIONALLY SAMPLED DECORRELATING DETECTORS FOR TIME-VARYING RAYLEIGH FADING CDMA CHANNELS by Huaping Liu In this dissertation, we propose novel decorrelating multiuser detectors in DSCDMA time-varying frequency-nonselective and frequency-selective fading channels and analyze their performance. We address the common shortcomings of existing multiuser detectors in a mobile environment, such as detector complexity and the error floor. An analytical approach is employed almost exclusively and Monte Carlo simulation is used to confirm the theoretical results. Practical channel models, such as Jakes' and Markovian, are adopted in the numerical examples. The proposed detectors are of the decorrelating type and utilize fractional sampling to simultaneously achieve two goals: (1) the novel realization of a decorrelator with lower computational complexity and shorter processing latency; and (2) the significant reduction of the probability of error floor associated with time-varying fading. The analysis of the impact of imperfect power control on IS-95 multiple access interference is carried out first and the ineffectiveness of IS-95 power control in a mobile radio environment is demonstrated. Fractionally-spaced bit-by-bit decorrelator structures for the frequency-nonselective and frequency-selective channels are then proposed. The matrix singularity problem associated with decorrelation is also addressed, and its solution is suggested. A decorrelating receiver employing differentially coherent detection for an asynchronous CDMA, frequency-nonselective time-varying Rayleigh fading channel is proposed. A maximum likelihood detection principle is applied at the fractionallyspaced decorrelator output, resulting in a significantly reduced error floor. For coherent detection, a novel single-stage and two-stage decision feedback (DF) maximum a posteriori (MAP) channel estimator is proposed. These estimators are applicable to a channel with an arbitrary spaced-time correlation function. The fractionally-spaced decorrelating detector is then modified and extended to a frequency-selective time-varying fading channel, and is shown to be capable of simultaneously eliminating MAI, ISI, and path cross-correlation interference. The implicit equivalent frequency diversity is exploited through multipath combining, and the effective time diversity is achieved by fractional sampling for significant performance improvement. The significance of the outcome of this research is in the design of new lower complexity multiuser detectors that do not exhibit the usual deficiencies and limitations associated with a time-varying fading and multipath CDMA mobile environment. FRACTIONALLY SAMPLED DECORRELATING DETECTORS FOR TIME-VARYING RAYLEIGH FADING CDMA CHANNELS
School-Based Exercise Programs for Promoting Musculoskeletal Fitness in Children Aged 6 to 10

Musculoskeletal fitness (MF) is a multidimensional construct that combines muscle strength, endurance, and power to allow for the performance of tasks against one’s own body weight or an external resistance. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of school-based programs on promoting MF in children aged 6 to 10. PubMed and Web of Science databases were used as searching tools. A total of 16 studies were included in a systematic review with primary school-based program interventions measuring at least one variable related to musculoskeletal fitness. Parameters for measuring explosive power, especially standing broad jump (SBJ), have a large potential for development throughout school-based programs. Long-lasting interventions did not necessarily improve MF; however, there were shorter interventions that caused the improvement in a larger number of parameters. Our findings imply that increased physical activity during a school week, together with improved lesson content, is crucial for MF development in this age group.
An epidemiological overview of the equine influenza epidemic in Great Britain during 2019

Abstract Background During 2019, an epidemic of equine influenza (EI) occurred in Europe. Objectives To describe the epidemiology of the 2019 EI epidemic within Great Britain (GB). Study design Retrospective descriptive study of laboratory confirmed EI cases. Methods Epidemiological data were obtained from veterinary surgeons referring samples for EI virus testing. Where available, data on confirmed cases and their wider resident population on EI‐infected premises were collated and described. On a national level, spatial and temporal representations, consisting of choropleth maps and epidemic curves, described the spread of EI. EI‐infected premises‐level factors associated with the first of two epidemic phases were investigated using ordinary logistic regression analysis. Results There were 412 confirmed cases and 234 EI‐infected premises, with the first of two epidemic phases occurring between January and April, followed by a second phase through to August. The median age of confirmed cases was 5 years and Sports horses (24%) and Cobs (16%) made up the highest proportions by general horse type and breed. Among confirmed cases 72% were unvaccinated and 18% were vaccinated against EI. New horses arriving within 2 weeks of a confirmed case were reported by 42% of EI‐infected premises. Investigation of EI‐infected premises biosecurity measures indicated that 23% quarantined new arrivals, 37% had isolation facilities and 57% of resident horses were vaccinated. EI‐infected premises were more likely in the first than second epidemic phase to be classified as professional, have a vaccinated confirmed case and EI confirmed in a newly arrived animal. Main limitations Data were collected at a single time point for each EI‐infected premises with no follow ups performed. Conclusions During 2019, EI‐infected premises generally had low levels of population vaccine coverage and implemented limited preventive biosecurity measures, particularly linked to horse movements. Without substantial improvements in infectious disease prevention and control, the GB equine population remains at risk of future EI epidemics.
All Quiet on the TE Front? The Role of Chromatin in Transposable Element Silencing

Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile genetic elements that constitute a sizeable portion of many eukaryotic genomes. Through their mobility, they represent a major source of genetic variation, and their activation can cause genetic instability and has been linked to aging, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Accordingly, tight regulation of TE transcription is necessary for normal development. Chromatin is at the heart of TE regulation; however, we still lack a comprehensive understanding of the precise role of chromatin marks in TE silencing and how chromatin marks are established and maintained at TE loci. In this review, I discuss evidence documenting the contribution of chromatin-associated proteins and histone marks in TE regulation across different species with an emphasis on Drosophila and mammalian systems.
Quantifying relative contributions of source waters from a subalpine wetland to downstream water bodies

Subalpine regions of the Canadian Rocky Mountains are expected to experience continued changes in hydrometeorological processes due to anthropogenically mediated climate warming. As a result, fresh water supplies are at risk as snowmelt periods occur earlier in the year, and glaciers contribute less annual meltwater, resulting in longer growing seasons and greater reliance on rainfall to generate runoff. In such environments, wetlands are potentially important components that control runoff processes, but due to their location and harsh climates their hydrology is not well studied. We used stable water isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen (δ2H and δ18O), coupled with MixSIAR, a Bayesian mixing model, to understand relative source water contributions and mixing within Burstall Wetland, a subalpine wetland (1900 m a.s.l.), and the larger Burstall Valley. These results were combined with climate data from the Burstall Valley to understand hydrometeorological controls on Burstall Wetland source water dynamics over spatiotemporal timescales. Our results show that the seasonal isotopic patterns within Burstall Wetland reflect greater reliance on snowmelt in spring and rainfall in the peak and post‐growing season periods. We found a substantial degree of mixing between precipitation (rain and snow) and stored waters in the landscape, especially during the pre‐growing season. These findings suggest that longer growing seasons in subalpine snow‐dominated landscapes put wetlands at risk of significant water loss and increased evaporation rates potentially leading to periods of reduced runoff during the peak‐ growing season and in extreme cases, wetland dry out.
Salivary cortisol levels and temporomandibular disorders – A systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 case-control studies

Purpose: To compare salivary cortisol levels between patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and healthy controls.Methods: Pubmed, EMBASE, Web of Science and PsycINFO databases were employed to screen for the included studies. RevMan 5.3 software and RStudio software were used for meta-analysis, while a random-effect model was selected to synthesize the effect with the mean difference (MD). Results: Thirteen studies were eligible and a total of 504 TMD patients and 410 controls were included. The pooled MD of salivary cortisol levels in TMD patients compared to controls was 0.05 (95 %CI = 0.01 - 0.09, p = 0.02), indicating a significantly higher level of salivary cortisol in TMD patients than in the controls. Subgroup analysis suggested studies published later than 2014 showed significant increase of salivary cortisol level in TMD patients when compared to controls (MD = 0.07, 95 % CI = 0.01-0.13, p = 0.03). Besides, high-quality studies presented significant differences with regard to the cortisol level in saliva among individuals with or without TMD (MD = 0.04, 95 %CI = 0.03-0.05, p < 0.01). However, the instability of the results showed by the sensitivity analysis was a hindrance to reaching a definitive conclusion.Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that salivary cortisol level in TMD patients is significantly higher than in controls. Consequently, supportive psychological treatment is recommended to prevent TMD patients from mood disorders. More high-quality studies are, however, needed to confirm the relationship, considering the high degree of heterogeneity among the studies.
The preventive effect of internet‐based cognitive behavioral therapy for prevention of depression during pregnancy and in the postpartum period (iPDP): a large scale randomized controlled trial

Prevention of perinatal depression beginning from the antenatal period is essential. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of recently developed internet‐delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) for preventing the onset of a major depressive episode (MDE) in the third trimester and at 3 months postpartum.
Comparison of haematological changes associated with coccidiosis in commercial layer chickens at different production stages in Zaria, Nigeria

Avian coccidiosis remains an economically important disease affecting the poultry industry worldwide. The dearth of information on haematological changes resulting from field cases of coccidiosis in commercial layer chickens necessitated this research. One hundred and twenty commercial layer chickens sampled from different farms in Zaria, diagnosed of coccidiosis at early, mid/peak and late production stages were used for this study. Results showed a significant (p < 0.05) decline in almost all haematological parameters (except for elevated MCV) of commercial layer chickens which were diagnosed of coccidiosis at the different production stages when compared to corresponding values of other apparently healthy layers that served as controls. The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) values in the layers diagnosed of coccidiosis at all production stages were significantly higher than the values obtained from the corresponding apparently healthy ones that served as control, whereas the MCHC showed significant decreases across all layer chickens diagnosed of coccidiosis at different production stages when compared to the corresponding values of the apparently healthy control layers. Thus, the erythrocytic indices of the layer chickens with coccidiosis showed the RBCs were macrocytic and hypochromic. On the basis of mean PCV, layer chickens at early production stage (PCV: 24.51 ± 3.17%) were most severely affected by coccidiosis, following closely by the layers at mid/peak production stage (PCV: 24.66 ± 1.64%). The highest mean WBC (19.15 ± 2.99 x109/L) was recorded in layers with coccidiosis at mid/peak production stage, which showed they were better in mounting inflammatory response when compared to the mean values of layers at early (14.92 ± 2.85 x109/L) and late (17.99 ± 2.70 x109/L) stages of production. In conclusion, coccidiosis in commercial layer chickens caused significant haematological alterations which could necessitate dietary supplementation to prevent occurrence of anaemia and decline in egg production.
Impact of Emergency Remote Teaching on University Students at a Public Institution in the United States

The educational experiences of university students participating in Emergency Remote Teaching (ERT) during the COVID-19 pandemic were evaluated using a survey instrument. Students found ERT stressful (89%) and indicated challenges from inadequate internet (91%), lack of privacy (45%), and increased amount of studying (3 hours more per week). Academic rank correlated with stress level during ERT, with freshmen (42%) reporting the highest stress level and seniors (48%) reporting minimal stress. Lack of face-to-face instruction, missing peer interaction and having to teach the course material to themselves were the top issues that students disliked with ERT. Respondents recognized the need for organization, self-motivati1on, and increased interaction with other students and instructors as key factors for effectiveness and satisfaction of ERT instruction.