Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The role of vaccination route with an adenovirus-vectored vaccine in protection, viral control, and transmission in the SARS-CoV-2/K18-hACE2 mouse infection model

Introduction Vaccination is the most effective mechanism to prevent severe COVID-19. However, breakthrough infections and subsequent transmission of SARS-CoV-2 remain a significant problem. Intranasal vaccination has the potential to be more effective in preventing disease and limiting transmission between individuals as it induces potent responses at mucosal sites. Methods Utilizing a replication-deficient adenovirus serotype 5-vectored vaccine expressing the SARS-CoV-2 RBD (AdCOVID) in homozygous and heterozygous transgenic K18-hACE2, we investigated the impact of the route of administration on vaccine immunogenicity, SARS-CoV-2 transmission, and survival. Results Mice vaccinated with AdCOVID via the intramuscular or intranasal route and subsequently challenged with SARS-CoV-2 showed that animals vaccinated intranasally had improved cellular and mucosal antibody responses. Additionally, intranasally vaccinated animals had significantly better viremic control, and protection from lethal infection compared to intramuscularly vaccinated animals. Notably, in a novel transmission model, intranasal vaccination reduced viral transmission to naïve co-housed mice compared to intramuscular vaccination. Discussion Our data provide convincing evidence for the use of intranasal vaccination in protecting against SARS-CoV-2 infection and transmission.
Postoperative Outcomes Among Dialysis Patients Undergoing Hip Fracture Repair

Background Geriatric hip fractures are strongly correlated with increased morbidity. Even so, postoperative outcomes following surgical repair of hip fractures for patients with end stage renal disease lack extensive investigation. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses unique risks for surgical procedures as it has been associated with several complications. Little information is available regarding the outcomes of patients whose renal function decline necessitates dialysis usage. The purpose of this study was to compare post-surgical outcomes based on dialysis usage among CKD patients requiring hip fracture repair. Materials and Methods We used the PearlDiver database to identify hip fracture repair patients diagnosed with stages 3, 4, and 5 CKD. We matched the populations according to patient characteristics and comorbidities. We then compared patient complication rates among dialyzed and non-dialyzed CKD patients following hip fracture repair at 30 days, 90 days, and 1 year following the procedure. Results Dialyzed patients were more likely to experience myocardial infarction within 30 days (P = .02) and 90 days (P = .002). Dialyzed patients suffered cardiac arrest at higher rates within the same time intervals (P = .02; P = .002). Furthermore, dialysis patients developed sepsis (P = .005) and pneumonia (P = .005) at higher rates within 30 days of operation. Dialysis patients did not have increased risk of blood transfusion within 30 days of the operation (P = .07). Discussion We found significant increases in myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest, pneumonia, and sepsis risk among dialyzed CKD patients. Blood transfusion risk failed to reach statistical significance. Our findings are consistent with previous research regarding CKD pathophysiology and associated perioperative outcomes. Conclusion Given the drastic decline of renal function among patients on dialysis, our findings may be attributable to decreased glomerular filtration rate in CKD as well as dialysis itself. Regardless, multidisciplinary collaboration should be employed when performing hip fracture repair on a patient who is actively undergoing hemodialysis.
BUILDING INTEGRATED MODELS IN ENVIRONMENTAL AND NATURAL RESOURCE ECONOMICS: THE CASE OF GORDON’S 1954 FISHERY MODEL

Environmental and natural resource economics lies inherently at the interface between economic and natural dynamics (e.g., geological constraints, climate change, biodiversity evolution). Building models in that field often means building integrated models, calling on knowledge and methods from economics and physics, climatology, biology, or ecology. Howard Scott Gordon’s 1954 article on fishery economics is considered to be seminal in the history of bioeconomic modeling, integrating biological and economic variables in a microeconomic model. Yet the precise role played by biology in Gordon’s initial work remains unclear. On the basis of archival material and thorough analysis of Gordon’s early research, this paper examines Gordon’s model building and his persistent oscillation between two objectives—the production of a heuristic economic model with standard assumptions, and the conception of a predictive policy tool relevant from a fishery-biology standpoint—and how he finally favored the first over the second. Moreover, contrary to received wisdom, we show that it was not Gordon but biologist Milner B. Schaefer who transformed Gordon’s model into an integrated model. These results shed new light not only on Gordon’s 1954 contribution but also on a whole tradition of integrated environmental and natural resource economics models, based on his work.
The Role of Stepwise Photoionization in Measurements of the Ionization Potentials in Dense Plasma

The interaction of high-contrast high-intensity laser radiation with solids allows us to create hot or warm plasma of solid or even over-solid density, such as in the case of inertial fusion particularly. The multicharged ions contained in it can no longer be considered isolated. As a result, this leads to a decrease in the ionization potentials and to the disappearance of a number of bound ionic states. To describe the ionization potential depression, two major approaches are now used predominantly, where the key parameter is either average interelectronic or interionic distance. Since neither of the approaches can be substantiated purely theoretically, their applicability can only be established by comparison with experimental results. In recent experiments with X-ray free-electron lasers, it was concluded that the ionization potential depression rather depends on the interelectronic distance. However, when measuring ionization potentials, it was assumed that the main role in ionization processes is played by the direct photoionization of the ion ground state. In the present paper, we show that stepwise photoionization processes should play a significant role in dense plasma, disrupting a straight correspondence between the threshold in direct photoionization by X-ray laser photons and the actual ionization potential of multicharged ions. It means that the measurement results mentioned above are not correct, and the main conclusion about the importance of the interelectronic distance for depression of the ionization potential is not correct.
Independent component thermography for non-destructive testing of defects in polymer composites

Thermographic data processing and analysis is critical for effective infrared thermography non-destructive testing of defects in composite materials. In this research work, the concept of blind source separation is introduced into this field for facilitating subsurface defect detection in polymer composites. In detail, a thermal image generated by infrared thermography is viewed as a linear mixture of several independent and non-Gaussian sources, which can be decomposed by adopting the proposed independent component thermography (ICT) technique. After the decomposition, the non-Gaussian sources are extracted and plotted as a number of images with the same size as the original thermograms. Eventually, the defect signals can be separated from the non-uniform backgrounds which are usually caused by uneven heating. As a result, the location and shape information of the subsurface defective regions is highlighted. The feasibility of the ICT method is illustrated with its application to a carbon fiber reinforced polymer specimen.
Non-planar strike-slip Gnieździska – Brzeziny fault (SW Mesozoic margin of the Holy Cross Mountains, central Poland)

Based on the analysis of detailed geological maps, air photos, radar images and tectonic mesostructures the geometry and mechanism of formation of the Gnieździska-Brzeziny fault have been determined. The fault represents a typical example of a dextral strike-slip fault occurring in the SW margin of the Holy Cross Mountains. The trace of the fault is curvilinear-sinusoidal, which produced restraining and releasing bends as well as restraining stepovers.
Determinants of municipal tax rates: empirical evidence in the portuguese context

The municipality is the circumscription of the territory in which citizens, associated by common relations (locality, work and traditions) live under an autonomous organisation, for economic, administrative and cultural purposes. The powers to define the tax burden in each municipality raise the question of municipal competitiveness. This study aims to analyse the determinants of municipalities' tax policy options, at the level of municipal tax attractiveness. Presently, the attribution of tax powers has extended to the sphere of local power, where municipalities can decide, in relation to their taxes, to grant tax benefits and reduce the municipal tax burden, that is, tax policy has become a general policy instrument of local authorities. In this context, supported by an international dogma favourable to the increasing attribution of administrative and financial autonomy, the fiscal competence of Portuguese municipalities has been extended. In this exploratory study, we analysed the impact of the municipal competence of annual differentiation of the tax burden as a way to observe the ability of local actors to increase municipal competitiveness and local development.
The perceptual consequences and neurophysiology of eye blinks

A hand passing in front of a camera produces a large and obvious disruption of a video. Yet the closure of the eyelid during a blink, which lasts for hundreds of milliseconds and occurs thousands of times per day, typically goes unnoticed. What are the neural mechanisms that mediate our uninterrupted visual experience despite frequent occlusion of the eyes? Here, we review the existing literature on the neurophysiology, perceptual consequences, and behavioral dynamics of blinks. We begin by detailing the kinematics of the eyelid that define a blink. We next discuss the ways in which blinks alter visual function by occluding the pupil, decreasing visual sensitivity, and moving the eyes. Then, to anchor our understanding, we review the similarities between blinks and other actions that lead to reductions in visual sensitivity, such as saccadic eye movements. The similarity between these two actions has led to suggestions that they share a common neural substrate. We consider the extent of overlap in their neural circuits and go on to explain how recent findings regarding saccade suppression cast doubt on the strong version of the shared mechanism hypothesis. We also evaluate alternative explanations of how blink-related processes modulate neural activity to maintain visual stability: a reverberating corticothalamic loop to maintain information in the face of lid closure; and a suppression of visual transients related to lid closure. Next, we survey the many areas throughout the brain that contribute to the execution of, regulation of, or response to blinks. Regardless of the underlying mechanisms, blinks drastically attenuate our visual abilities, yet these perturbations fail to reach awareness. We conclude by outlining opportunities for future work to better understand how the brain maintains visual perception in the face of eye blinks. Future work will likely benefit from incorporating theories of perceptual stability, neurophysiology, and novel behavior paradigms to address issues central to our understanding of natural visual behavior and for the clinical rehabilitation of active vision.
Risk Assessment of Outdoor Gamma Radiation in Some Coastal Communities of Delta State, Nigeria

An assessment of background ionization radiation and associated health risk in some coastal communities of Delta State, Nigeria was carried out using a well calibrated portable radiation detector (Radalert-200) and GPS (Garmin GPS 72H) for the measurement of the geographical locations. The study covered Abiteye and Anotech Jetty water ways with nine notable communities assessed, where marine transportation and equipment haulage are predominant. The exposure rates ranged from 0.011 to 0.019 mRh−1 with overall mean value of 0.015 ± 0.002 mRh−1. The computed absorbed dose rates ranged from 95.70 to 165.30 nGyh-1 with overall mean value of 132.46 ± 19.05 nGyh-1. The estimated overall mean annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE) for the studied communities was 0.203±0.03 mSvy-1, while the overall mean excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) was (0.710±0.10) x10-3. The dose received by organs was highest in the testes (18%), the ovaries received 13%, while the liver had the lowest dose values (10%). Among all the estimated risk parameters, only the overall mean AEDE was found to be below the safe world recommended standard value while others were higher than their respective safe world average values. Hence the exposure may not constitute any immediate health risk to the resident of the study area.
Assessing Confidence Levels in Endodontic Procedures Among Senior Undergraduate Dental Students at Qassim University, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Background This study aimed to determine the confidence of senior dental students in Qassim University’s undergraduate dentistry program in Saudi Arabia regarding their capacity to perform endodontic procedures. The study’s objective was to pinpoint areas of weakness and offer suggestions for potential improvement of endodontic and clinical training for dental students. Methodology Using anonymous survey forms, 120 senior dental students were surveyed. Students’ self-reported levels of confidence in performing various endodontic procedures, such as periapical radiographs, rubber dam placement, endodontically treated tooth restoration, anesthesia, broken instrument removal, and endodontic retreatment, were studied in this survey. A Likert-style rating scale of 1 to 5 was used in the survey, with 1 denoting high confidence and 5 denoting low confidence. Results The majority of senior dental students at Qassim University reported high levels of confidence in taking periapical radiographs, with 64.04% indicating a high level of confidence. The second most assured field was rubber dam installation, with 47.6% of students expressing high levels of assurance. Confidence levels were noticeably lower during more difficult procedures such as endodontic retreatment and the removal of broken instruments. While 12% of students expressed high confidence in endodontic retreatment, only 3.46% of students expressed high confidence in removing broken instruments. According to Pearson’s correlation (r = 0.352, p = 0.001), there was a significant and favorable correlation between competency level and confidence in performing various endodontic procedure-related steps. Conclusions The study’s findings suggest that senior dentistry students at Qassim University might benefit from additional training and assistance in some endodontic treatment areas. The lack of confidence displayed during more challenging procedures, such as the removal of broken instruments and endodontic retreatment, demonstrates the need for additional training and supervision in such cases. The results of this study may be useful for educators in other dental colleges who wish to consider developing new teaching techniques, utilizing simulators and digital learning tools, and increasing opportunities for hands-on training and supervision to improve dental students’ self-confidence and skills.
Randomized Trial Comparing Prediction Accuracy of Two Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography Biometers

Purpose To compare the prediction accuracy of the Argos biometer using standard keratometry to the prediction accuracy of the IOLMaster 700 biometer using Total Keratometry. Methods This was a randomized, prospective, single surgeon study of 80 right eyes of 80 patients that had preoperative biometry with both the Argos and IOLMaster 700 devices, followed by cataract surgery and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Prediction errors (directional and absolute) for each device were determined from the 1 month postoperative manifest refraction. Results The directional prediction error was 0.07 ± 0.32 D for the Argos and 0.08 ± 0.34 D for the IOLMaster 700. The mean of the difference in prediction error (directional) was 0.02 D, which was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The absolute prediction error was 0.21 ± 0.25 D for the Argos and 0.25 ± 0.24 D for the IOLMaster 700. The mean of the difference in absolute prediction error was 0.04 D, which was statistically significant (p < 0.004) but not clinically significant. The percentage of eyes with absolute prediction error ≤ 0.5 D was 91% (73 eyes) for the Argos and 88% (70 eyes) for the IOLMaster 700. This difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion The prediction accuracies were similar between the Argos and IOLMaster 700 in eyes with normal axial length. There was a significant difference in mean absolute prediction error between devices; however, this was not clinically meaningful.
Effectiveness of Near-Peer-Taught Case Reviews on Students' Confidence in National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) Exams

Introduction A key element to a first-year medical student's (MS1) education is guidance and practice in applying anatomy, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment concepts to clinical vignettes. One potential solution to providing effective clinical reasoning training is the involvement of second-year medical students (MS2s) in small group sessions as teachers to provide more personalized instruction via case-based learning sessions. Near-peer teaching has been shown to benefit students' confidence in learning and improve test scores. Similarly, case-based learning is heavily associated with an improved understanding of complex topics. As such, this study assessed the efficacy of near-peer teaching with concomitant case-based style presentations on improving the comfort of MS1s with their understanding of the curriculum content and their comfort with applying their knowledge to clinical scenarios. Methods This randomized controlled crossover trial included several small-group study sessions, each consisting of five MS1s and led by an MS2 who reviewed selected clinical cases in a standardized slide decks. The control arm was provided the same slide decks but did not participate in the MS2-led sessions. During the first course, students were assigned to either the control or intervention group and then crossed over to the opposite group (control to intervention and vice versa) in every subsequent course. Comfort with the curriculum material was then assessed through pre and post surveys, with the post surveys administered after the MS1s took their final NBME examination for that course. Results The study was cut short due to COVID-19 precautions limiting in-person sessions. Nevertheless, the post survey demonstrated an increased understanding of pathological concepts for the intervention group compared to the control group. Conclusions Future work on near-peer group study sessions should enroll a larger sample size with measures to improve the response rate to better test whether near-peer-led case reviews had a significant effect on students' understanding of anatomical concepts and confidence during NBME examinations.
NITROGEN AND WATER EFFECTS ON CANOPY SENSOR MEASUREMENTS FOR SITE-SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT OF CROPS

Active optical sensors (AOS) have demonstrated their ability to make nondestructive assessments of crop nitrogen (N) status. Since their introduction to production agriculture, fertilizer equipment and monitor capabilities have advanced making new algorithm approaches available. The objective of this study was to compare reference strategies for normalizing reflectance data across multiple vegetation indices. A study was conducted from 2011 to 2013 with corn (Zea mays L.) at two sites in Nebraska. Treatments consisted of irrigation (Full, 75% of Full, and rain fed) and N fertilizer rate (0, 84, 140, 196, and 252 kg N ha -1 ). Crop canopy reflectance was measured at multiple growth stages by a three band (670, 720, and 760 nm) sensor. The virtual reference concept helped reduce variation of calculated reference and placed sufficiency index values in a range that corresponds to plant N status. Of the three vegetation indices used, the DATT and CIRE index most often showed significant responses to applied N fertilizer. The NDVI index was the least responsive of the indices tested and would cause the highest variability when calculating reference values.
The Architecture of Cognitive Control in the Human Prefrontal Cortex

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) subserves cognitive control: the ability to coordinate thoughts or actions in relation with internal goals. Its functional architecture, however, remains poorly understood. Using brain imaging in humans, we showed that the lateral PFC is organized as a cascade of executive processes from premotor to anterior PFC regions that control behavior according to stimuli, the present perceptual context, and the temporal episode in which stimuli occur, respectively. The results support an unified modular model of cognitive control that describes the overall functional organization of the human lateral PFC and has basic methodological and theoretical implications.
A Qualitative Study on the Policy Process and Development of the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance in Singapore

The global public health threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been accelerated by many interrelated factors spanning across One Health—human health, animal health, and the environment. Singapore launched its own National Strategic Action Plan (NSAP) on AMR in November 2017 with the aim of tackling the growing threat of AMR in Singapore through coordinated approaches. However, little is known about the policy process and development of the NSAP in Singapore. In this study, we analysed these aspects using an AMR governance framework. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 participants across the One Health spectrum. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Areas that were well executed included (1) good coordination across various agencies, (2) a dedicated office to coordinate the work on the NSAP, and (3) a high level of governmental support. Areas that were lacking included (1) a lack of participation from certain sectors, (2) insufficient awareness around the AMR issue, (3) constraints in information sharing, and (4) a lack of ideal indicators to track the progress in addressing AMR. Improvements in these areas will provide a more holistic One Health engagement in support of the effective planning and implementation of the NSAP.