Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of bipolar androgen therapy in castration-resistant prostate cancer following abiraterone or enzalutamide resistance: A systematic review

Bipolar androgen therapy (BAT) is a new endocrinologic treatment for castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) that can restore some patients’ sensitivity to drugs such as abiraterone (Abi) and enzalutamide (Enz). We performed a meta-analysis using STATA16. Sensitivity analyses were performed by examining the effects of individual studies using different effect models and detecting any publication bias using the Harbord test. In a total of 108 unique records, ten studies were included in the final meta-analysis. Participants who underwent BAT achieved a PSA50 response rate of 27% (95%CI [0.22,0.31], I2=17.98%), ORR of 34% (95%CI [0.24,0.43], I2=0), and incidence of AEs (grade≥3) of 14% (95%CI [0.09,0.19], I2=0). Patients who completed BAT proceeded to AR-targeted therapy (Abi or Enz) and achieved a PSA50 response rate of 57% (95% CI [0.36,0.78], I2=0). Patients with prior Enz resistance had a stronger impact on the PSA50 of AR-target therapy rechallenge. The results of this meta-analysis indicate that BAT is a safe and effective treatment for patients who have progressed after Abi or Enz. BAT can trigger the resensitization of patients with CRPC to subsequent endocrine therapy and improve the overall survival of patients and their quality of life.
Linking dietary intake, circadian biomarkers, and clock genes on obesity: A study protocol

Background The prevalence of obesity continues to rise, and although this is a complex disease, the screening is made simply with the value of the Body Mass Index. This index only considers weight and height, being limited in portraying the multiple existing obesity phenotypes. The characterization of the chronotype and circadian system as an innovative phenotype of a patient’s form of obesity is gaining increasing importance for the development of novel and pinpointed nutritional interventions. Objective The present study is a prospective observational controlled study conducted in Portugal, aiming to characterize the chronotype and determine its relation to the phenotype and dietary patterns of patients with obesity and healthy participants. Methods Adults with obesity (study group) and healthy adults (control group), aged between 18 and 75, will be enrolled in this study. Data will be collected to characterize the chronotype, dietary intake, and sleep quality through validated questionnaires. Body composition will also be assessed, and blood samples will be collected to quantify circadian and metabolic biomarkers. Discussion This study is expected to contribute to a better understanding of the impact of obesity and dietary intake on circadian biomarkers and, therefore, increase scientific evidence to help future therapeutic interventions based on chronobiology, with a particular focus on nutritional interventions.
The effect of acupuncture on pain and swelling of arthritis animal models: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Arthritis, the inflammation of joints, attributes to the patient’s pain, joint deformation, and limited range of motion. Emerging studies have shown the effects of acupuncture on different types of arthritis. We aimed to assess the effects of acupuncture on arthritis animal models and summarize the related mechanisms. We retrieved studies that met our criteria from PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Research Information Service System. The quality assessment was evaluated by using the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation’s risk of bias tool. The pain withdrawal latency, pain withdrawal threshold, and paw volume data were digitized using Engauge Digitizer software. The meta-analysis was performed, and the figures were generated using RevMan software. The meta-analysis of data from 21 animal studies revealed that acupuncture increased tolerance to pain stimuli, and reduced swelling in arthritis animals. Although the number of included studies is insufficient, the results suggest acupuncture to be effective in improving arthritis-induced inflammation and pain by regulating the nervous and immune system.
In-vivo characterization of macro- and microstructural injury of the subventricular zone in relapsing-remitting and progressive multiple sclerosis

Introduction The subventricular zone (SVZ) represents one of the main adult brain neurogenesis niche. In-vivo imaging of SVZ is very challenging and little is known about MRI correlates of SVZ macro- and micro-structural injury in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Methods The aim of the present study is to evaluate differences in terms of volume and microstructural changes [as assessed with the novel Spherical Mean Technique (SMT) model, evaluating: Neurite Signal fraction (INTRA); Extra-neurite transverse (EXTRATRANS) and mean diffusivity (EXTRAMD)] in SVZ between relapsing-remitting (RR) or progressive (P) MS patients and healthy controls (HC). We are also going to explore whether SVZ microstructural injury correlate with caudate (a nucleus that is in the vicinity of the SVZ) or thalamus (another well-defined grey matter area which is further from SVZ than caudate) volume and clinical disability. Clinical and brain MRI data were prospectively acquired from 20 HC, 101 RRMS, and 50 PMS patients. Structural and diffusion metrics inside the global SVZ, normal appearing (NA-) SVZ, caudate and thalamus were collected. Results We found a statistically significant difference between groups in terms of NA-SVZ EXTRAMD (PMS>RRMS>HC; p = 0.002), EXTRATRANS (PMS>RRMS>HC; p<0.0001), and INTRA (HC>RRMS>PMS; p = 0.009). Multivariable models showed that NA-SVZ metrics significantly predicted caudate (R2 = 0.21, p < 0.0001), but not thalamus, atrophy. A statistically significant correlation between EXTRAMD and EXTRATRANS of the NA-SVZ and EDSS (r=0.25, p=0.003 and r=0.24, p = 0.003, respectively) was found. These findings were confirmed in analyses restricted to RRMS, but not to PMS patients. Discussion In conclusion, the microstructural damage we observed within the NA-SVZ of MS patients – reflecting higher free water content (higher EXTRAMD), cytoarchitecture disruption and astrogliosis (higher EXTRATRANS and lower INTRA) - was more evident in the progressive as compared to the relapsing phases of MS. These abnormalities were significantly associated with a more pronounced caudate atrophy and higher clinical disability scores. Our findings may support the neuroprotective role of SVZ in MS patients.
High-THC Cannabis smoke impairs working memory capacity in spontaneous tests of novelty preference for objects and odors in rats

Working memory (WM) is an executive function that orchestrates the use of a limited amount of information, referred to as working memory capacity (WMC), in cognitive functions. In humans, Cannabis exposure impairs WM; however, it is unclear if Cannabis facilitates or impairs rodent WM. Existing literature also fails to address the effects of Cannabis exposure on rodent WMC using exposure paradigms that closely mirror patterns of human use. In the present study, WMC of rats was inferred by novelty preference after a short delay in spontaneous recognition-based tests. Either object or odor-based stimuli were used in different variations of the tests that present identical (IOT) and different (DOT) sets of stimuli (3 or 6) for low-and high-cognitive loads, respectively. Additionally, we present a human-machine hybrid (HYB) behavioral quantification approach which supplements stopwatch-based scoring with supervised machine learning (SML)-based classification, enabling behavioral data to be made publicly available. After validating the spontaneous tests, 6-item IOT and DOT tests with the HYB method were used to evaluate the impact of acute exposure to high-THC or high-CBD Cannabis smoke on novelty preference. Under control conditions, rats showed novelty preference in all test variations. We found that high-THC, but not high-CBD, Cannabis smoke exposure impaired novelty preference for objects under a high-cognitive load. Odor-based recognition deficits were seen under both low-, and high-cognitive loads only following high-THC smoke exposure. Ultimately, these data show that Cannabis smoke exposure impacts novelty preference in a load-dependent, and stimuli-specific manner. Significance Statement Working memory (WM) capacity is the limited amount of information that can be utilized by WM to orchestrate processes like learning and memory. Using object-and odor-based spontaneous recognition tests, the impact of high-THC or high-CBD Cannabis smoke on novelty preference was evaluated. Behavioral measurements were generated using a combination of open-source analysis software and traditional stopwatch scoring to form a human-machine hybrid (HYB) scoring method. We show novelty preference deficits under high-cognitive loads in object-based tests, while impacting novelty preference under both high-and low-cognitive loads in the odor-based tests. Ultimately, we show that Cannabis smoke exposure affects cognitive functions that underly WM in rats, which has broad implications for human use.
An Investigation of Large-Scale Climate Indices with the influence on Temperature and Precipitation Variation in Korea

In this study we have investigated the preceding eighteen large-scale climate indices with a lead time from zero to twelve months that have an influence on the variability of temperature and precipitation in Korea in order to understand which climate indices are overall available as predictors for long-range forecasting. We also have studied the dynamic link between preceding large-scale climate indices and regional climate using singular value decomposition analysis (SVDA) and correlation analysis (CA). Based on the coupled mode between large-scale circulation and regional climate, and correlation pattern between the preceding large-scale climate indices and large-scale circulation, the level of significance on climate indices as a predictor for monthly mean temperature and precipitation was evaluated for 5 and 1% level.
On Spreads Admitting Projective Linear Groups

In [8] Jha raised the following problem. (*) Let Γ be a spread whose components are subspaces of V 2n (GF(q)). Suppose G ≦ Aut Γ leaves a set of q + 1 components invariant while acting transitively on Γ\Δ. Find the possibilities for Γ or, more generally, the possibilities for (G, Γ, n, q). Many special cases of (*) have been settled. For instance, Cohen et al [1] have shown that if G fixes two non-zero points of V, that do not both lie in the same component of Γ, then Γ is the spread associated with either a Hall plane or the Lorimer-Rahilly plane of order 16 (LR-16) [14], [18]. Another such result is given in [8]; there it is shown that if q is a prime number and G is a one-dimensional projective unimodular group then Γ is the spread associated with one of the following translation planes: (1) the Desarguesian planes of order 4, 8, or 9; (2) the nearfield plane of order 9; (3) LR-16; (4) the translation plane JW-16, obtained by transposing the slope maps of LR-16 [19].
Research Statement: Statistical Game Theory

Game theory and statistics are two huge scientific disciplines that have played a significant role in the development of a wide variety of fields, including computer science, natural sciences, and social sciences. Traditionally, game theory has been used for decision making in strategic environments. For example, in economics, it is often used for designing auctions and for decision making in competitive markets. In computer science, it has found applications in numerous sub-fields such as distributed computing, network security, robotics, multi-agent systems, where multiple self-interested parties interact with each other. Unlike game theory, statistics has traditionally been used for reasoning in non-strategic and non-adversarial environments. In particular, statistics is concerned with the analysis and interpretation of data generated by some stationary non-reactive source. For example, in numerous fields such as astronomy, biostatistics, business analytics, epidemology, finance, statistical analysis and estimation is often performed on data generated from non-reactive sources. Due to the contrasting settings in which game theory and statistics are often studied, these two disciplines have traditionally been regarded as disparate research areas. However, there is a great degree of commonality between the two fields. A surprising range of developments in classical and modern statistics have a game theoretic component to them:
Higher-Order Techniques in Computational Electromagnetics

Improvements in the accuracy, computational cost, and reliability of computational techniques for high-frequency electromagnetics (including antennas, microwave devices and radar scattering applications) can be achieved through the use of 'high-order' techniques. This book outlines these techniques by presenting high-order basis functions, explaining their use, and illustrating their performance. The specific basis functions under consideration were developed by the authors, and include scalar and vector functions for use with equations such as the vector Helmholtz equation and the electric field integral equation. The book starts by considering the approximation of scalar functions, and explores the error in some of those representations. Singular functions (those that are unbounded) are also considered, since these often arise in practical EM problems. The authors then discuss the approximation of vector functions, and summarize the various classes of vector basis functions that have been used by the professional community. Following this, they present higher-order basis functions for the most common cell shapes used in finite element analysis procedures. Finally, they consider some of the implementation details associated with the use of these functions for integral equation/method of moments formulations and differential equation/finite element method approaches. This book provides an essential introduction to these techniques for researchers, graduate students and practicing professionals in the discipline of computational electromagnetics.
CFD Methods Derived from Simplified Variational Principles

In previous papers 1–4 we have described how by minimizing the fluid action numerically one can obtain a solution of the fluid steady state equations. The action which was used was the four function action of Seliger & Whitham. 5 In a recent paper 6 we describe how one can improve upon previous art by reducing the number of variables in the action. Three independent functions variational formalism for stationary and non-stationary barotropic flows is introduced. This is less than the four variables which appear in the standard equations of fluid dynamics which are the velocity field ~ v and the density ρ. In this paper we will discuss some issues related to the usage of the new action principles as basis for CFD algorithms.
Correlation Between CD4, Hemoglobin, and Body Mass Index Levels on The Success of Intensive Phase Therapy among Positive Bacteriological Tuberculosis Patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus Co-infection

Background: Tuberculosis and HIV infections are still a combination of diseases with high mortality rates. The success of intensive phase therapy of positive bacteriological TB patients with HIV co-infection can reduce morbidity and mortality rates. This study aims to determine the relationship between CD4 levels, HB, and BMI on the success of intensive phase therapy among positive bacteriological TB patients with HIV co-infection. Method: This research was an observational analytic study using a retrospective cohort study design conducted in Bali over 5 years (January 2016 to December 2021). Of 120 subjects, 118 subjects met the research requirements. The data was analyzed by Univariate analysis, Bivariate analysis was carried out using Chi-Square, and multivariate analysis was performed using multiple logistic regression. Results: a significant correlation was found between CD4 levels (RR=3,03, p= 0,004), HB (RR= 1,92, p= 0,006), BMI (RR= 5,91 p< 0,001) with successful intensive phase therapy in Bacteriologically Confirmed TB patients with HIV co-infection. All independent variables simultaneously affected sputum conversion (p<0,001; R Square = 0,479; CI: 95%). This study also found that BMI was the dominant predictor that affected the success of intensive phase therapy in Bacteriologically Confirmed TB patients with HIV co-infection (p<0,001; OR: 5,193; CI 95%). Conclusion: CD4, HB, and BMI levels are significantly related to the success of intensive phase therapy in Bacteriologically Confirmed TB patients with HIV co-infection.
ASPECTS OF MASS TRANSPORTATION IN DISCRETE CONCENTRATION INEQUALITIES

To Marla, who never let me give up. iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I first want to thank my advisor, Prasad Tetali, who worked harder for me than I deserved. He inspired me with his excitement about our work, and he saw me through to the end. I would like to thank my other thesis defense committee members: Wilfrid Gangbo, for acting as my co-advisor while Prasad was out of town; Ellis Johnson, for his input and serving on my oral exam committee; Tom Morley, whose ideas are always interesting; and Michael Loss, for filling in when I needed someone. And I would like to thank Eric Carlen for serving on my oral exam committee and for the helpful discussions throughout my research. I am indebted to many other wonderful professors at Georgia Tech, but I'm especially grateful for Alfred Andrew and Robert Ghrist who spent hours of their own time preparing me for the comprehensive exam. and Larry Hanson, who inspired me to study math in the first place. I will always appreciate the friendship of my office mate for three years, Sean Curran, without whom school would have been much less fun. Also, I thank Max von Renesse for his friendship and positive outlook on my work. I would like to thank my parents, Christine Sammer and Edwin Sammer, for their love and support throughout my education. Doug Sammer and Julie Sammer deserve thanks for being my favorite brother and sister. I will always remember my grandfather, Cecil Davis, who taught me about math at a young age. In addition, Marla's family has been great sources of support (and entertainment). More than anything I want to thank my wife, Marla Sammer, who has encouraged me, pushed me, and put up with me. SUMMARY During the last half century there has been a resurgence of interest in Monge's 18th century mass transportation problem, with most of the activity limited to continuous spaces. This thesis, consequently, looks at the role of mass transportation in the context of the measure concentration phenomenon in a discrete setting. Inequalities capturing such concentration on n-fold products of graphs, equipped with product measures, have been well investigated using combinatorial and probabilistic techniques, the most notable being martingale techniques. The emphasis here, is instead on the analytic viewpoint. Of particular relevance and focus is the so-called subgaussian constant, which is an optimal constant in a transportation inequality on a …
Pediatric and Family Physicians' Attitudes Regarding Childhood Optional Vaccines During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Introduction: To maintain high vaccination rates, vaccination interventions should be targeted according to interests such as parents' knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and vaccine hesitancy. Methods: This research was conducted between June 2020 and April 2021 using a questionnaire about optional vaccines (OVs) in Turkey. Results: A total of 241 physicians participated and 14 physicians were excluded due to insufficient data. Finally, a total of 227 physicians, including 115 pediatricians and 112 family physicians, were included in the study. The mean age of pediatricians and family physicians was 33.42 ± 8.25 years and 35.46 ± 11.09 years, respectively. There was no significant difference between pediatricians and family physicians in terms of age and gender (p > 0.05). Nearly half of all physicians (49%) stated that they do not have sufficient knowledge about OVs. Pediatricians (64%) stated that they have sufficient knowledge at a higher rate than family physicians (37%) (p = 0.000). Physicians who declared having sufficient knowledge informed families about OVs more frequently than those with insufficient knowledge (p = 0.000). Pediatricians provide information about OVs more frequently than family physicians (p = 0.001). Rotavirus and meningococcal vaccines were the most frequently recommended vaccines. Conclusions: Rotavirus and meningococcal B were the most recommended OVs. About half of the physicians participating in the study stated that they did not have sufficient knowledge about OVs. Physicians with sufficient knowledge of OVs recommend OVs more frequently.
Matching pseudocounts for interval estimation of binomial and Poisson parameters

ABSTRACT For interval estimation of a binomial proportion and a Poisson mean, matching pseudocounts are derived, which give the one-sided Wald confidence intervals with second-order accuracy. The confidence intervals remove the bias of coverage probabilities given by the score confidence intervals. Partial poor behavior of the confidence intervals by the matching pseudocounts is corrected by hybrid methods using the score confidence interval depending on sample values.
Functions of silicon and phytolith in higher plants

ABSTRACT Silicon (Si) is abundant in the lithosphere, and previous studies have confirmed that silicon plays an important role in plant growth. Higher plants absorb soluble silicon from soil through roots which is deposited in plant tissues mainly in the form of phytoliths. Based on previous studies, the research progress in silicon and phytoliths in the structural protection, enhancement on photosynthesis and transpiration of plants and plant growth and stress resistance was reviewed. Meanwhile, gaps in phytolith research, including phytolith morphology and function, impact of diverse environmental factors coupling with phytoliths, phytolith characteristics at different stages of plant development and phytoliths in regional vegetation are identified. The paper intends to promote the wider application of phytolith research findings and provides reference for further research on phytoliths.
A Review of Robotic Surgery in Colorectal Surgery

Colorectal surgery is a treatment for colorectal lesions. Technological advancements have given the rise to robotic colorectal surgery, a procedure that limits excessive blood loss via 3D pin-point precision capabilities during surgeries. The aim of this study is to review robotic surgery in colorectal treatment procedures in order to dictate its ultimate merits. This is a literature review utilising PubMed and Google Scholar; it only includes case studies and case reviews related to robotic colorectal surgeries. Literature reviews are excluded. We incorporated abstracts from all articles and full publications were examined to compare the benefits of robotic surgery in colorectal treatments. The number of articles reviewed was 41 literature spanning from 2003 to 2022. We found that robotic surgeries yielded finer marginal resections, greater amounts of lymph node resections and earlier recovery of bowel functions. The patients also spent less time in hospital after surgery. The obstacles on the other hand are it costs longer operative hours and further training, which is expensive. Studies show robotic approach is a choice for treating rectal cancer. However further studies would be needed to conclude the best approach. This is especially true with patients treated for anterior colorectal resections. Based on the evidence it's safe to say that the upsides outweigh the downsides, but advancements and further research in robotic colorectal surgeries are still necessary to reduce operative hours and cost. Surgical societies should also take the initiative and set up effective training programmes for colorectal robotic surgeries, as trained physicians result in better treatment outcomes.