Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Presentation, Treatment Response and Short-Term Outcomes in Paediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome Temporally Associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS)

The novel Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the pathogen responsible for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Whilst most children and young people develop mild symptoms, recent reports suggest a novel paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS). Case definition and classification are preliminary, treatment is empiric and disease-associated outcomes are unclear. Here, we report 29 patients with PIMS-TS who were diagnosed, admitted and treated in the English North West between March and June 2020. Consistent with patterns observed internationally, cases peaked approximately 4 weeks after the initial surge of COVID-19-like symptoms in the UK population. Clinical symptoms included fever (100%), skin rashes (72%), cardiovascular involvement (86%), conjunctivitis (62%) and respiratory involvement (21%). Some patients had clinical features partially resembling Kawasaki disease (KD), toxic shock syndrome and cytokine storm syndrome. Male gender (69%), black, Asian and other minority ethnicities (BAME, 59%) were over-represented. Immune modulating treatment was used in all, including intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), corticosteroids and cytokine blockers. Notably, 32% of patients treated with IVIG alone went into remission. The rest required additional treatment, usually corticosteroids, with the exception of two patients who were treated with TNF inhibition and IL-1 blockade, respectively. Another patient received IL-1 inhibition as primary therapy, with associated rapid and sustained remission. Randomized and prospective studies are needed to investigate efficacy and safety of treatment, especially as resources of IVIG may be depleted secondary to high demand during future waves of COVID-19.
Diversity Guided Adaptive Evolutionary Algorithm

Parameter tuning in Evolutionary Algorithms (EA) generally result in suboptimal choices of values because of the complex dependencies between the parameters. Furthermore, different scenarios during a run of the EA often have different optimal parameter values. This thesis aims to better the understanding of how information about previously successful applications of genetic operators can be used to improve the quality of the search by using derandomised self-adaptive parameter control; We utilise the genetic differences between an offspring its parent to adapt a mutation vector. It also explores two different selection strategies that maintains diversity in the population, and the general effect that diversity has on the exploration and exploitation of the solution space. The adaptive mutation scheme proposed in this thesis has shown to improve the speed of the EA significantly while still being able to solve a wide range of mathematical functions as well as practical problems. Supplemented with a simple scheme that maintains diversity it becomes a more robust implementation well suited for multiple types of problems; especially for problems with computationally expensive fitness tests.
A Survey of Mycoviral Infection in Fusarium spp. Isolated from Maize and Sorghum in Argentina Identifies the First Mycovirus from Fusarium verticillioides

Mycoviruses appear to be widespread in Fusarium species worldwide. The aim of this work was to identify mycoviral infections in Fusarium spp. , isolated from maize and sorghum grown in Argentina, and to estimate their potential effects on the pathogenicity and toxigenesis of the host fungus towards maize. Mycoviruses were identified in 2 out of 105 isolates analyzed; Fusarium verticillioides strain Sec505 and Fusarium andiyazi strain 162. They were characterized as members of the genus Mitovirus by high-throughput sequencing and sequence analysis. The F. verticillioides mitovirus was a novel mycovirus whereas the F. andiyazi mitovirus was found to be a new strain of a previously identified mitovirus. We have named these mitoviruses, Fusarium verticillioides mitovirus 1 (FvMV1) and Fusarium andiyazi mitovirus 1 strain 162 (FaMV1-162). To our knowledge, FvMV1 is the first mycovirus reported as naturally infecting F. verticillioides, the major causal agent of ear rot and fumonisin producer in corn. Both mitoviruses exhibited 100% vertical transmission rate to microconidia. The Fa162 strain infected with FaMV1-162 did not show phenotypic alterations. In contract, F. verticillioides Sec505 infected with FvMV1 showed increased virulence as well as microconidia and fumonisin-B1 production, compared with two uninfected strains. These results suggest that FvMV1 could have a role in modulating F. verticillioides pathogenicity and toxin production worth further exploring.
Associations between Changes in Health Behaviours and Body Weight during the COVID-19 Quarantine in Lithuania: The Lithuanian COVIDiet Study

The COVID-19 quarantine has caused significant changes in everyday life. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the quarantine on dietary, physical activity and alcohol consumption habits of Lithuanians and the association between health behaviours and weight changes. An online cross-sectional survey was carried out among individuals older than 18 years in April 2020. The self-administered questionnaire included health behaviour and weight change data. Altogether 2447 subjects participated in the survey. Almost half of the respondents (49.4%) ate more than usual, 45.1% increased snacking, and 62.1% cooked at home more often. Intake of carbonated or sugary drinks, fast food and commercial pastries decreased, while consumption of homemade pastries and fried food increased. A decrease in physical activity was reported by 60.6% of respondents. Every third (31.5%) respondent, more often those already with overweight, gained weight. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the higher odds of weight gain were associated with females, older age, increased consumption of sugary drinks, homemade pastries and fried food, eating more than usual, increased snacking, decreased physical activity and increased alcohol consumption. Our data highlighted the need for dietary and physical activity guidelines to prevent weight gain during the period of self-isolation, especially targeting those with overweight and obesity.
The Coffee–Acrylamide Apparent Paradox: An Example of Why the Health Impact of a Specific Compound in a Complex Mixture Should Not Be Evaluated in Isolation

The health implications of acrylamide in food are a matter of concern based on toxicological studies in rodents, which showed that doses of acrylamide more than 100 times higher than those estimated to result from dietary exposure in humans are carcinogenic; however, the cancer types reported in rodents are species-specific, and whether these results can be extrapolated to humans is still in question. In fact, human epidemiological studies revealed a general lack of association between dietary acrylamide exposure and the incidence of different cancer types. Even occupational exposure to acrylamide, resulting in acrylamide exposure nearly 10 times higher than dietary exposure, did not increase tumor occurrence. Furthermore, the consumption of coffee, which is a main contributor of dietary acrylamide exposure, actually decreases the overall incidence of cancer in humans and afford global health benefits, increasing both lifespan and healthspan on ageing. This paradox clearly illustrates the risk of evaluating an individual molecule independently of its complete food matrix, which may have other components that completely override the effects of the considered molecule.
Identification and characterization of a novel capsule-like complex surface antigen of Francisella tularensis

Francisella tularensis is a highly virulent zoonotic pathogen that is the causative agent of tularemia in humans. Two subspecies of F. tularensis are the most virulent in humans: tularensis (type A) and holarctica (type B), with less than 10 organisms via aerosol of a type A strain having the ability to cause fatal infection. Over the last decade much research has been done on the pathogenesis of this unique intracellular bacterium and many different virulence factors have been identified. The goal of this dissertation has been to identify and characterize the capsulelike complex (CLC) surface antigen of F. tularensis, and to determine its role in virulence and immunoprotection in a mouse model. In addition, I have investigated the role of CLC in biofilm formation. The CLC appears as a negatively staining material surrounding F. tularensis cells during transmission electron microscopy (TEM). I found that the CLC in the type B live vaccine strain (LVS) could be significantly diminished by deleting two glycosyl transferase genes (LVSΔ142322) in the putative polysaccharide locus, FTL_1432-FTL_1421. In addition, I determined that the CLC was not a typical polysaccharide capsule, but was in fact composed of over 50 proteins and glycoproteins including known virulence determinants, such as GroEL, DnaK, and ClpB. Upon further evaluation of the CLC, I determined that it was composed of an increase in production of outer membrane vesicles and tubules (OMV/T). These OMV/T appeared to be
Germination and Seedling Development of Bigroot Morningglory (Ipomoea pandurata)

Studies were undertaken to determine effects of scarification, temperature, stratification, pH, and osmotic potential on seed germination; to determine the effect of planting depth on emergence; to describe the emergence sequence; and to quantify seedling development of bigroot morningglory. Mechanical and chemical scarification caused increased germination but cool, moist stratification did not break dormancy. Optimum germination occurred at 20 and 25 C and with alternating temperatures of 20/10 and 30/20 C. The optimum pH range for germination was between 6 and 8.5. Increasing the solution osmotic potential decreased germination linearly from 90% at −0.08 MPa to 0% at −0.8 MPa. Plant establishment was best at 2 to 4 cm and decreased at greater seeding depths. Seedling emergence was observed and recorded and found not to fit the classical models of hypogeal or epigeal emergence. Only 3% of 5-day-old seedlings sprouted after being clipped to the root crown. When seedlings were 11 days old at clipping, over 85% of the plants sprouted. These results indicate that bigroot morningglory has the potential to successfully reproduce by seed and that the rapid development of the plant should be considered when designing control programs.
Phenotypic Differentiation of Two Morphologically Similar Aflatoxin-Producing Fungi from West Africa

Aflatoxins (AF) are hepatocarcinogenic metabolites produced by several Aspergillus species. Crop infection by these species results in aflatoxin contamination of cereals, nuts, and spices. Etiology of aflatoxin contamination is complicated by mixed infections of multiple species with similar morphology and aflatoxin profiles. The current study investigates variation in aflatoxin production between two morphologically similar species that co-exist in West Africa, A. aflatoxiformans and A. minisclerotigenes. Consistent distinctions in aflatoxin production during liquid fermentation were discovered between these species. The two species produced similar concentrations of AFB1 in defined media with either urea or ammonium as the sole nitrogen source. However, production of both AFB1 and AFG1 were inhibited (p < 0.001) for A. aflatoxiformans in a yeast extract medium with sucrose. Although production of AFG1 by both species was similar in urea, A. minisclerotigenes produced greater concentrations of AFG1 in ammonium (p = 0.039). Based on these differences, a reliable and convenient assay for differentiating the two species was designed. This assay will be useful for identifying specific etiologic agents of aflatoxin contamination episodes in West Africa and other regions where the two species are sympatric, especially when phylogenetic analyses based on multiple gene segments are not practical.
Stage-Specific Value of Carbohydrate Antigen 19-9 and Carcinoembryonic Antigen Serum Levels on Survival and Recurrence in Pancreatic Cancer: A Single Center Study and Meta-Analysis

Simple Summary Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers with a poor survival. Only the minority of patients can be treated by extensive surgery, which is associated with high morbidity. Therefore it could be helpful to identify which patients are at risk of early recurrence and associated poor survival in order to optimize treatment strategies for individual patients. Serum tumor markers, which are readily available and easily implicated in the clinical workflow, are such additional tools. In this study, tumor markers carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) have been studied and results have been compared with existing literature by performing a systematic literature search, as current literature is lacking a complete overview of the prognostic value of both markers. Elevated CA19-9 serum level appear to be an independent prognostic factor for poor survival and early recurrence in pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients, whereas the prognostic value of CEA is disputable. Abstract This study aimed to determine the stage-specific prognostic value of carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) serum levels at diagnosis on overall survival (OS) and time to local recurrence or distant metastases in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Consecutive PDAC patients, discussed at multidisciplinary team meetings from 2013 through 2017, were reviewed. Prognostic factors were stage-specific (resection vs. advanced PDAC) evaluated in Cox proportional hazard models. Additionally, a systematic literature search and meta-analysis was performed, as current literature is lacking a complete overview of used cut-off values and the added value of CEA as prognostic marker. In the retrospective cohort, elevated CA19-9 (>305 kU/L) level was independently associated with poor OS (Hazard ratio (HR): 1.72(1.31–2.26)) and early recurrence (HR: 1.74(1.06–2.86)), whereas CEA was not significantly associated. The meta-analysis showed that both elevated CA19-9 and CEA serum levels were predictors for poor OS (pooled HR: 1.29(1.17–1.42) and HR: 1.51(1.33–1.73), respectively). In the resected cohort, elevated CA19-9 level was significantly associated with early recurrence (pooled HR: 2.41(1.77–3.29)), whereas CEA was not. Elevated CA19-9 serum level appear to be an independent prognostic factor for poor OS and early recurrence in PDAC patients, whereas the prognostic value of CEA is disputable.
From 1957 to Nowadays: A Brief History of Epigenetics

Due to the spectacular number of studies focusing on epigenetics in the last few decades, and particularly for the last few years, the availability of a chronology of epigenetics appears essential. Indeed, our review places epigenetic events and the identification of the main epigenetic writers, readers and erasers on a historic scale. This review helps to understand the increasing knowledge in molecular and cellular biology, the development of new biochemical techniques and advances in epigenetics and, more importantly, the roles played by epigenetics in many physiological and pathological situations.
Effects of mindfulness‐based intervention on glycemic control and psychological outcomes in people with diabetes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Psychological therapies have showed benefits for both glycemic control and psychological outcomes in people with diabetes. However, the effects of mindfulness‐based intervention (MBI) on glycemic control and psychological outcomes are inconsistent across studies, and the evidence for MBI has not been summarized. We aimed to identify the effects of MBI on glycemic control and psychological outcomes in people with diabetes by carrying out a systematic review and meta‐analysis.
Spontaneous Biloma Resulting from Intrahepatic Bile Duct Perforation Coexisting with Intrahepatic Cholelithiasis and Cholangiocarcinoma: A Case Report and Literature Review

Patient: Female, 74-year-old Final Diagnosis: Biloma Symptoms: Epigastralgia • fever • nausea Medication: — Clinical Procedure: — Specialty: Surgery Objective: Rare co-existance of disease or pathology Background: Spontaneous biloma is a rare non-traumatic disease in which an extrahepatic or intrahepatic bile duct perforates spontaneously with no discernable cause. We present the details of a patient with spontaneous biloma resulting from intrahepatic bile duct perforation with concurrent intrahepatic cholelithiasis and cholangiocarcinoma. Case Report: A 74-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with symptoms of abrupt epigastralgia, nausea, and fever. Physical examination revealed epigastric tenderness, guarding, and rebound tenderness. Laboratory test results were normal, except for elevated leukocytes, and C-reactive protein, total bilirubin, and blood urea nitrogen concentrations. Carcinoembryonic antigen and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 concentrations were also elevated. Abdominal computed tomography revealed perihepatic fluid and ascites, with common bile duct dilatation and localized cholangiectasia of B2 with areas of slight high density, which indicated an intraabdominal abscess and intrahepatic cholelithiasis. Spontaneous intrahepatic bile duct perforation was subsequently diagnosed by cholangiography via endoscopic nasobiliary drainage. Left hepatic lobectomy was performed to treat the intrahepatic cholelithiasis and spontaneous biloma. Intraoperatively, a perforation was identified at the edge of the lateral segment of the left triangular ligament, through which bile had been leaking. Histopathology revealed intraductal cholangiocellular carcinoma with intrahepatic cholangiolithiasis. The patient’s postoperative course was excellent, and she was discharged on postoperative day 16. However, cancer dissemination to the peritoneum was identified 8 months after surgery. Conclusions: Treatment for patients with intrahepatic cholelithiasis should involve aggressive surgery because of the associated carcinogenicity. This approach reduces the risk of dissemination secondary to intrahepatic bile duct perforation.
Mouse-ear of Pecan: A Nickel Deficiency

Mouse-ear (ME) is a potentially severe anomalous growth disorder affecting pecan [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch] trees. It is especially severe in second generation sites throughout much of the Gulf Coast Coastal Plain of the southeastern U.S., but can also occur in potted nursery trees. Orchard and greenhouse studies on trees treated with either Cu or Ni indicated that foliar applied Ni corrects ME. ME symptoms were prevented, in both orchard and greenhouse trees, by a single mid-October foliar spray of Ni (nickel sulfate), whereas nontreated control trees exhibited severe ME. Similarly, post budbreak spring spray applications of Ni to foliage of shoots of orchard trees exhibiting severe ME prevented ME symptoms on subsequent growth, but did not correct morphological distortions of foliage developed before Ni treatment. Foliar application of Cu in mid-October to greenhouse seedling trees increased ME severity the following spring. Post budbreak application of Ni to these Cu treated MEed seedling trees prevented ME symptoms in post Ni application growth, but did not alter morphology of foliage exhibiting ME before Ni treatment. Thus, high leaf Cu concentrations appear to be capable of disrupting Ni dependent physiological processes. Foliar application ofNi to ME prone trees in mid-October or soon after budbreak, is an effective means of preventing or minimizing ME. These studies indicate that ME in pecan is due to a Ni deficiency at budbreak. It also supports the role of Ni as an essential plant nutrient element.
Behavior of alcids with tail-mounted radio transmitters

-We compared the length and number of absences from the colony/day and the prey delivered to the young of Common Murres (Uria aalge) and Razorbills (Alca torda) which carried radio transmitters, and controls of these species without transmitters. The transmitters were mounted on the upper side of the tail. Birds with transmitters tended to make fewer trips/day, make fewer short trips and return more often without a fish for their chick than controls. These results indicate possible adverse impacts of transmitters on the energetics and foraging behavior of alcids. The various merits of tail and back-mounted transmitters for alcids are discussed. Received 2 February 1989, accepted 4 April 1989.
LOCAL AND GEOGRAPHIC VARIATION IN THE REPRODUCTIVE BIOLOGY OF THE SNAPPING TURTLE (CHELYDRA SERPENTINA)

We studied female snapping turtles at two shallow lakes on the Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge from 1990-1994, most intensively during the nesting seasons of 1993 and 1994. Females matured at 28-29 cm carapace length (CL), 22-23 cm plastron length (PL), 5.5- 6.5 kg body mass, and 10-12 winters of age. Nesting was recorded from 1-28 June, but in a given year season length was 13-18 days and its start may be inversely related to spring temperatures. Nesting began between 0400 and 0930 h and between 1800 and 0100 h. During the warm June of 1994, nesting was equally divided between morning and evening, but during the relatively cold June of 1993, smaller females apparently shifted predominately to evening nesting. It was not determined whether all females reproduced every year. Reproducing females produced one clutch per year of 20-73 eggs (x = 46.8) weighing 6.4-19.1 g each (x = 11.4). Egg size, clutch size, and clutch mass were each positively correlated with female size. However, relative to female body size, large females produce smaller eggs and smaller clutches, but the same total clutch mass, as small females. No differences in reproductive output were detectable between 1993 and 1994. Geographic variation in female size across the species range is significant. In temperate regions, mean female size is correlated with latitude, longitude, and elevation, with the largest females found in Nebraska and South Dakota. Females in the tropics are as large as the largest temperate females. Egg size does not vary with average female body size across populations or with latitude. Eggs in the tropics average nearly twice the mass of those in temperate regions, but relative to female body size, egg size in the tropics is not significantly different. Clutch size is positively correlated with female body size within and among populations, as well as with latitude. However, relative to body size, clutch size does not vary among temperate populations, although it is larger there than in the tropics. No trade-off between average egg size and clutch size was evident among populations. Clutch mass was correlated with female body size and varied geographically along with body size. However, relative to body size, there was no significant geographic variation in clutch mass. Variation in growth rate to maturity among temperate populations suggests that at northern, western, and high elevation locations a greater selective advantage accrues from maturing at a larger body size than from maturing at an earlier age, perhaps because of the strong body size-clutch size correlation.