Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Contact Precautions to Prevent Transmission of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci in Intensive Care Units.

BACKGROUND Contact precautions for endemic methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) are under increasing scrutiny, in part due to limited clinical trial evidence. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed data from the Strategies to Reduce Transmission of Antimicrobial Resistant Bacteria in Intensive Care Units (STAR*ICU) trial to model the use of contact precautions in individual intensive care units (ICUs). Data included admission and discharge times and surveillance test results. We used a transmission model to estimate key epidemiological parameters, including the effect of contact precautions on transmission. Finally, we performed multivariate meta-regression to identify ICU-level factors associated with contact precaution effects. RESULTS We found that 21% of admissions (n = 2194) were placed on contact precautions, with most for MRSA and VRE. We found little evidence that contact precautions reduced MRSA transmission. The estimated change in transmission attributed to contact precautions was -16% (95% credible interval, -38% to 15%). VRE transmission was higher than MRSA transmission due to contact precautions, but not significantly. In our meta-regression, we did not identify associations between ICU-level factors and estimated contact precaution effects. Importation and transmission were higher for VRE than for MRSA, but clearance rates were lower for VRE than for MRSA. CONCLUSIONS We found little evidence that contact precautions implemented during the STAR*ICU trial reduced transmission of MRSA or VRE. We did find important differences in the transmission dynamics between MRSA and VRE. Differences in organism and healthcare setting may impact the efficacy of contact precautions.
Non-perfectly matching small RNAs can induce stable and heritable epigenetic modifications and can be used as molecular markers to trace the origin and fate of silencing RNAs

Abstract Short non-coding RNA molecules (sRNAs) play a fundamental role in gene regulation and development in higher organisms. They act as molecular postcodes and guide AGO proteins to target nucleic acids. In plants, sRNA-targeted mRNAs are degraded, reducing gene expression. In contrast, sRNA-targeted DNA sequences undergo cytosine methylation referred to as RNA-directed DNA methylation (RdDM). Cytosine methylation can suppress transcription, thus sRNAs are potent regulators of gene expression. sRNA-mediated RdDM is involved in genome stability through transposon silencing, mobile signalling for epigenetic gene control and hybrid vigour. Since cytosine methylation can be passed on to subsequent generations, RdDM contributes to transgenerational inheritance of the epigenome. Using a novel approach, which can differentiate between primary (inducer) and secondary (amplified) sRNAs, we show that initiation of heritable RdDM does not require complete sequence complementarity between the sRNAs and their nuclear target sequences. sRNAs with up to four regularly interspaced mismatches are potent inducers of RdDM, however, the number and disruptive nature of nucleotide polymorphisms negatively correlate with their efficacy. Our findings contribute to understanding how sRNA can directly shape the epigenome and may be used in designing the next generation of RNA silencing constructs.
Applying Bowen Theory to Psychiatric Assessment and Disposition in the ED

BACKGROUND: A number of variables have been shown to influence whether an individual who experiences an emergency psychiatric assessment is admitted to a psychiatric hospital. This study focused on the theoretical orientation of the assessing clinician as a possibly influential variable. The theoretical orientation being studied was Bowen family systems theory or Bowen theory (Bt). Overall the Bt perspective looks at the family as the primary crucible that generates symptoms but at the same time as the natural unit and the best built-in resource to deal with those symptoms. AIMS: This study examined whether the theoretical orientation of the nurse psychiatric assessor would affect her inpatient admission rate of patients seen for psychiatric evaluation in an emergency department (ED). METHOD: A clinician/researcher with extensive experience applying Bt in clinical practice worked in a Crisis Management Service providing psychiatric evaluation and disposition in a busy community hospital ED. Given Bt’s emphasis on the system rather than individual pathology, the clinician researcher hypothesized that her psychiatric hospitalization rate would be lower than the other clinical nurse specialists. A retrospective chart review analyzed 1 year of cases from all referrals that might have resulted in psychiatric hospitalizations (n = 1,801). RESULTS: The clinician/researcher’s psychiatric hospitalization rate was significantly lower (p = .004) than the other clinicians. CONCLUSION: An approach to psychiatric assessment in the ED applied a Bt perspective in a way that significantly reduced psychiatric hospitalizations.
Exploring the Correspondence Between General Correctional Programming and Inmate Misconduct Using a Time-Course Framework

Inmate misconduct continues to threaten safety and order within correctional institutions. Yet few studies have examined its longitudinal nature. In this paper we explore the correspondence between correctional programming and inmate misconduct. To do this, we draw from Linning et al.’s time-course framework devised to improve the design and evaluation of interventions by considering effects that can occur before, during, and after programming. We provide the first empirical demonstration of their framework using prisoner misconduct data collected from all Ohio prisons between January 2008 and June 2012. A cross-lagged panel analysis provides support for the use of a time-course framework. Results show that misconduct decreased during programming. However, we observed increases in misconduct prior to and following exposure to programming. Our results suggest that future work needs to improve our understanding of causal mechanisms of inmate misconduct and when their effects are expected.
Stromal cell‐derived factor‐1/Exendin‐4 cotherapy facilitates the proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells in vitro and promotes periodontal bone regeneration in vivo

Stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1) actively directs endogenous cell homing. Exendin‐4 (EX‐4) promotes stem cell osteogenic differentiation. Studies revealed that EX‐4 strengthened SDF‐1‐mediated stem cell migration. However, the effects of SDF‐1 and EX‐4 on periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) and bone regeneration have not been investigated. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of SDF‐1/EX‐4 cotherapy on PDLSCs in vitro and periodontal bone regeneration in vivo.
Nanoscale Soft Wetting Observed in Co/Sapphire during Pulsed Laser Irradiation

Liquid drops on deformable soft substrates exhibit quite complicated wetting behavior as compared to those on rigid solid substrates. We report on a soft wetting behavior of Co nanoparticles (NPs) on a sapphire substrate during pulsed laser-induced dewetting (PLID). Co NPs produced by PLID wetted the sapphire substrate with a contact angle near 70°, which is in contrast to typical dewetting behavior of metal thin films exhibiting contact angles greater than 90°. In addition, a nanoscale γ-Al2O3 wetting ridge about 15 nm in size and a thin amorphous Al2O3 interlayer were observed around and beneath the Co NP, respectively. The observed soft wetting behavior strongly indicates that the sapphire substrate became soft and deformable during PLID. Moreover, the soft wetting was augmented under PLID in air due to the formation of a CoO shell, resulting in a smaller contact angle near 30°.
Lattice Dynamics and Phonon Dispersion in the Narrow Gap Semiconductor Bi2Te3 with Sandwich Structure

The extremely anisotropic bonding properties of the narrow gap semiconductor bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) with sandwich structure is studied by inelastic neutron scattering. In combination with lattice dynamical shell model calculations, new information is obtained on the complex bonding forces of this sandwich structured V–VI semiconductor. The sandwich character leads predominantely to three-dimensional bonding behavior. No characteristic two-dimensional lattice properties can be observed. Die extrem anisotropen Bindungseigenschaften des „Narrow-Gap”-Halbleiters Wismuttellurid Bi2Te3, mit Sandwichstruktur werden mittels inelastischer Neutronenstreuung untersucht. In Kombination mit gitterdynamischen Schalenmodellen liefern die Experimente neue Einsichten in die vielfaltigen Bindungseigenschaften des sandwich-strukturierten V–VI-Halbleiters. Aufgrund der Sandwichstruktur wird hauptsachlich dreidimensionales Bindungsverhalten beobachtet. Es konnen keine charakteristischen Eigenschaften quasi-zweidimensionaler Kristallstrukturen beobachtet werden.
Treating anxiety and depression in inflammatory bowel disease: a systematic review

Abstract Objective Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is associated with higher rates of clinically significant anxiety and depression than in healthy populations. Psychosocial interventions targeting anxiety and depression in IBD have variable efficacy and disparate treatment approaches, making treatment recommendations difficult. The current study aimed to identify effective treatment components across psychosocial treatment approaches for anxiety and depression in IBD. Design A systematic review of psychosocial treatments for anxiety and depression in IBD was conducted. Based on the Distillation and Matching Model, treatments were coded and data aggregated by intervention components, or practice elements (PE), to elucidate replicable clinical techniques. Main Outcome The percentage of studies utilizing a given PE was the primary outcome. Measures Among all included studies, as well as among those finding favorable, significant effects on anxiety or depression, the percentage utilizing each PE and number of PEs utilized was determined. Results The most utilized PEs among included interventions were relaxation, IBD psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, distraction, and social skills. Examining only interventions with favorable differences on specified outcomes (HRQoL, Anxiety, Depression, and/or Coping) indicated that relaxation, education, cognitive restructuring, and mindfulness were most utilized. Conclusion Implications for clinical practice are discussed, including the development and dissemination of treatment recommendations.
Purification and biochemical characterization of polyphenol oxidase extracted from Kirmizi Kismis grape (Vitis vinifera L.).

The purification of the polyphenol oxidase (PPO) enzyme from Kirmizi Kismis grape (Vitis vinifera L.) was performed 61.23 times using affinity chromatography. The molecular weight of the enzyme was found to be about 38.1 kDa by SDS-PAGE as a single band. The optimum pH and temperature values were revealed to be 5.0 and 30°C, respectively, in the presence of 4-methyl catechol substrate. The thermal stability of PPO was examined and it was observed to maintain its activity at 20°C for 1 hr. Km and Vmax values were determined to be 4.8 mM and 2000,0 EU/ml for 4-methyl catechol as a substrate. IC50 and Ki values and inhibition types were found for various browning agents and ascorbic acid had the strongest inhibitory impact on PPO. The inhibitory impact of Na+ , K+ , Mg2+ , Cu2+ , and Al3+ metal ions on the enzyme activity at final concentrations of 1 mM and 10 mM was examined. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Grapes grown and processed take a significant place in our life. The grape has antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic and protective properties against bacteria and viruses. Furthermore, it takes an important position in the country's economy and social life due to providing raw materials to the food industry and having high export potential. Polyphenol oxidase, which is the leading actor of enzymatic browning reactions causing serious economic losses every year, was purified and characterized from Kirmizi Kismis grape (Vitis vinifera L.). This ancient grape variety has industrial processing and export potential due to its long storage life and resistance to oxidation. Therefore, the purification and biochemical characterization of polyphenol oxidase from Kirmizi Kismis grape are of great importance.
Mineral and Organic Matter Controls on the Sorption of Macronutrient Anions in Variable-Charge Soils

Partitioning ions between the solid and solution phase is one of the most important processes controlling nutrient mobility and bioavailability. Despite this, less research has focused on the interactions of nutrient anions at soil interfaces, although variable-charge components are present to some extent in nearly all soils. The objective of this study was to develop equations using commonly measured soil properties (particle size analysis, organic matter content, and extractable Fe and Al fractions) to predict sorption isotherms for NO 3 -, SO 4 2 -, and H 2 PO 4 -. Six subsurface soils, ranging spatially and temporally from heavily weathered Oxisols of the tropics to a recendy glaciated Entisol from the U.S. Pacific Northwest, were used to generate sorption isot herms of the three macronutrient anions using initial solution concentrations from 0.1 to 5 mmol L -1 . Before batch sorption experiments, soils were saturated with KCl, rinsed free of excess salts, and adjusted to pH = 4.0 ± 0.1 to eliminate the confounding effects of competing ions or differing pH regimes. Almost all soils from temperate latitudes had a greater capacity to sorb anions than the Oxisols included in this study for comparison. This was particularly true for the soils with volcanic parent materials from the U.S. Pacific Northwest. For any given soil, the capacity to sorb the macronutrient anions was in the order H 2 PO 4 - > SO 4 2- > NO 3 . Multiple regression analyses generally suggest that the electrostatic sorption of NO 3 - and SO 4 2- is positively related to the presence of active Al fractions and negatively correlated with organic C content.
What factors influence clinicians' use of technology in neurorehabilitation? A multisite qualitative study.

OBJECTIVE Technology is being increasingly used for physical assessment and interventions in health care settings. However, clinical adoption is relatively slow, and the factors affecting use remain underexplored. This study aimed to investigate factors influencing technology use by clinicians working in neurorehabilitation. METHODS In this qualitative study, 9 physical therapists and 9 occupational therapists (n = 18) were recruited from urban and regional locations in Australia and in Singapore. Three 60-minute focus groups were conducted via video conferencing. Each group comprised 3 physical therapists and 3 occupational therapists working across different neurorehabilitation settings. Participants were asked to discuss which technologies they used in their workplace for physical assessment and treatment, and barriers, motivators and future desires for technology use. Transcripts were analysed independently using an inductive approach to generate codes and themes. RESULTS Our results comprised 3 themes and 7 categories. These were encompassed by a single overarching theme, namely 'Technology use is influenced by the benefits and challenges of the technology itself, users and organisational context'. Themes showed that technology should promote effective interventions, was preferred if easy to use, and should be dependable. Furthermore, clinical reasoning is important, and users have varying levels of receptivity and confidence in technology use. Also, organisational resources are required, along with supportive cultures and processes to facilitate technology use. CONCLUSIONS The themes identified multiple and interlinking factors influencing clinicians' use of technology in neurorehabilitation settings. Clinicians often consider context-specific benefits and challenges when deciding whether to use technology. While our study found that clinicians generally perceived technology as having a beneficial role in improving health outcomes, there were several challenges raised. Therefore, the characteristics of the technology itself, individual users, and organisational context should be considered. IMPACT These findings will guide successful technology implementation and future developments.
Lysine and Methionine Supplementation for Dairy Calves Is More Accurate through the Liquid than the Solid Diet

Simple Summary Amino acids (AA) are known to be a factor limiting animals’ growth when requirements are not achieved, specially lysine (Lys) and methionine (Met). However, requirements of these AA are not well established for dairy calves. This study aimed to evaluate the performance and metabolic changes in dairy calves supplemented with Lys and Met in milk replacer (MR) or starter concentrate (SC) according to doses recommended in the literature. The supplementation with Lys and Met did not benefit dairy calves’ performance nor metabolism. However, supplementation through the MR was more efficient than SC to result in adequate daily intakes of AA. Further studies are needed to understand the negative effects of AA on calf starter intake. Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the performance and metabolic changes in dairy calves supplemented with lysine and methionine in milk replacer (MR) or starter concentrate (SC). Male Holstein calves (n = 45) were blocked and distributed in Control without supplementation (1) and; Lysine and Methionine supplementation to achieve an intake of 17 and 5.3 g/d in the SC (2) and to achieve of 17 and 5.3 g/d in the MR (3). MR was fed (6 L/d) until the 8th week of life when weaning occurred. Calves were followed until the 10th week of age. Feed intake was measured daily. Weight and body measurements were registered weekly. Blood samples were collected biweekly to evaluate the intermediate metabolism. The AA supplementation resulted in lower body weight at weaning and week 10. Calves fed SC Lys:Met had lower SC intake and lower total feed intake at weaning when compared to control. Calves fed control had higher heart girth, hip-width, and plasma glucose concentration. The supplementation with Lys and Met did not benefit dairy calves’ performance nor metabolism in this study. Supplementation through the MR was more efficient than SC to result in adequate daily intakes of AA. Further studies are needed to understand the negative effects of AA on calf starter intake.
Effects of Air Dilution on Highly Preheated Air Combustion in a Regenerative Furnace

Air dilution in highly preheated air combustion has been found to be effective in controlling the NOx emission and improving the temperature uniformity. In this study, the effects of air dilution with different diluents on highly preheated air combustion have been numerically investigated. A regenerative furnace was simulated, where nitrogen, carbon dioxide, helium, argon, and flue gas were adopted as air diluents. It was found that the flame temperature, the temperature uniformity, and the NOx emission are different when different air diluents were adopted under the same preheated air temperature and oxygen concentration. On the basis of the analysis and comparison, it is deduced that the heat capacity of the diluted air, represented by the product of the density and specific heat, plays a main role in the effect of air dilution on the combustion process. The turbulent intensity, represented by the kinetic energy, also plays a role but less significant compared with the heat capacity. The difference in t.
Hypothalamic Norepinephrine Concentration and Heart Mass in Hypertensive ISIAH Rats Are Associated with a Genetic Locus on Chromosome 18

The relationship between activation of the sympathetic nervous system and cardiac hypertrophy has long been known. However, the molecular genetic basis of this association is poorly understood. Given the known role of hypothalamic norepinephrine in the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, the aim of the work was to carry out genetic mapping using Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) analysis and determine the loci associated both with an increase in the concentration of norepinephrine in the hypothalamus and with an increase in heart mass in Inherited Stress-Induced Arterial Hypertension (ISIAH) rats simulating the stress-sensitive form of arterial hypertension. The work describes a genetic locus on chromosome 18, in which there are genes that control the development of cardiac hypertrophy associated with an increase in the concentration of norepinephrine in the hypothalamus, i.e., genes involved in enhanced sympathetic myocardial stimulation. No association of this locus with the blood pressure was found. Taking into consideration previously obtained results, it was concluded that the contribution to the development of heart hypertrophy in the ISIAH rats is controlled by different genetic loci, one of which is associated with the concentration of norepinephrine in the hypothalamus (on chromosome 18) and the other is associated with high blood pressure (on chromosome 1). Nucleotide substitutions that may be involved in the formation or absence of association with blood pressure in different rat strains are discussed.
Kangaroo father care: A pilot feasibility study of physiologic, biologic, and psychosocial measures to capture the effects of father-infant and mother-infant skin-to-skin contact in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Robust literature supports the positive effects of kangaroo mother care (KMC) on infant physiologic stability and parent-infant bonding in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Comparatively little is known about kangaroo father care (KFC) in the NICU, and KFC implementation has been limited. Our pilot feasibility study objective was to examine KFC effects on premature infants and fathers as compared to KMC. Parents of preterm NICU infants independently completed a 90-min Kangaroo Care (KC) session on consecutive days. Infant heart rate variability (HRV) and apnea/periodicity measures were compared (pre-KC to KC; KFC to KMC). Additionally, we assessed the feasibility of administering three psychosocial questionnaires to fathers and mothers in the NICU and after discharge. Ten preterm infants completed 20 KC sessions (334/7 -374/7 weeks post-menstrual age). Results demonstrated similar infant physiologic responses between KMC and KFC, including significant differences in measures of HRV (p < .05) between KC and non-KC periods. Eighty-eight percentage of questionnaires administered were completed, supporting the utilization of these instruments in future research of this population. If confirmed, these preliminary results identify an opportunity to objectively assess KFC effects, supporting the development of empirically based KFC programs benefitting NICU families.