Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Mice with humanized immune system as novel models to study HIV-associated pulmonary hypertension

People living with HIV and who receive antiretroviral therapy have a significantly improved lifespan, compared to the early days without therapy. Unfortunately, persisting viral replication in the lungs sustains chronic inflammation, which may cause pulmonary vascular dysfunction and ultimate life-threatening Pulmonary Hypertension (PH). The mechanisms involved in the progression of HIV and PH remain unclear. The study of HIV-PH is limited due to the lack of tractable animal models that recapitulate infection and pathobiological aspects of PH. On one hand, mice with humanized immune systems (hu-mice) are highly relevant to HIV research but their suitability for HIV-PH research deserves investigation. On another hand, the Hypoxia-Sugen is a well-established model for experimental PH that combines hypoxia with the VEGF antagonist SU5416. To test the suitability of hu-mice, we combined HIV with either SU5416 or hypoxia. Using right heart catheterization, we found that combining HIV+SU5416 exacerbated PH. HIV infection increases human pro-inflammatory cytokines in the lungs, compared to uninfected mice. Histopathological examinations showed pulmonary vascular inflammation with arterial muscularization in HIV-PH. We also found an increase in endothelial-monocyte activating polypeptide II (EMAP II) when combining HIV+SU5416. Therefore, combinations of HIV with SU5416 or hypoxia recapitulate PH in hu-mice, creating well-suited models for infectious mechanistic pulmonary vascular research in small animals.
Lipopolysaccharide-induced interferon response networks at birth are predictive of severe viral lower respiratory infections in the first year of life

Appropriate innate immune function is essential to limit pathogenesis and severity of severe lower respiratory infections (sLRI) during infancy, a leading cause of hospitalization and risk factor for subsequent asthma in this age group. Employing a systems biology approach to analysis of multi-omic profiles generated from a high-risk cohort (n=50), we found that the intensity of activation of an LPS-induced interferon gene network at birth was predictive of sLRI risk in infancy (AUC=0.724). Connectivity patterns within this network were stronger among susceptible individuals, and a systems biology approach identified IRF1 as a putative master regulator of this response. These findings were specific to the LPS-induced interferon response and were not observed following activation of viral nucleic acid sensing pathways. Comparison of responses at birth versus age 5 demonstrated that LPS-induced interferon responses but not responses triggered by viral nucleic acid sensing pathways may be subject to strong developmental regulation. These data suggest that the risk of sLRI in early life is in part already determined at birth, and additionally that the developmental status of LPS-induced interferon responses may be a key determinant of susceptibility. Our findings provide a rationale for the identification of at-risk infants for early intervention aimed at sLRI prevention and identifies targets which may be relevant for drug development.
Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation for Mixed or Overlap Myelodysplastic/Myeloproliferative Disorders

Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) and the remaining, less frequent hybrid, mixed, or overlap myelodysplastic syndromes/myeloproliferative neoplasms (MDSs/MPNs) are difficult to treat neoplastic hematological disorders, exhibiting substantial clinical and prognostic heterogeneity, for which clear therapeutic guidelines or effective treatment options are still missing. CMML has an overall survival ranging from a few months to several years. Although patients with proliferative or dysplastic features may benefit from hydroxyurea and hypomethylating agent treatment, respectively, none of these treatments can establish long-term remission and prevent the inevitable transformation to acute leukemia. Novel targeted treatment approaches are emerging but are still under investigation. Therefore, currently, allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) remains the only treatment modality with a curative potential, but its widespread application is limited, due to significant morbidity and mortality associated with the procedure, especially in the elderly and in patients with comorbidities. Recognition of patient eligibility for allo-SCT is crucial, and the procedure should be addressed to patients with a good performance status without severe comorbidities and mainly to those in intermediate- to high-risk category, with a suitable stem cell donor available. The issues of best timing for performing transplantation, patient and donor eligibility, the type of conditioning regimen, and the outcomes after various allo-SCT procedures are the topics of this review.
The multiple indicator multiple cause model for cognitive neuroscience: An analytic tool which emphasizes the behavior in brain–behavior relationships

Cognitive neuroscience has inspired a number of methodological advances to extract the highest signal-to-noise ratio from neuroimaging data. Popular techniques used to summarize behavioral data include sum-scores and item response theory (IRT). While these techniques can be useful when applied appropriately, item dimensionality and the quality of information are often left unexplored allowing poor performing items to be included in an itemset. The purpose of this study is to highlight how the application of two-stage approaches introduces parameter bias, differential item functioning (DIF) can manifest in cognitive neuroscience data and how techniques such as the multiple indicator multiple cause (MIMIC) model can identify and remove items with DIF and model these data with greater sensitivity for brain–behavior relationships. This was performed using a simulation and an empirical study. The simulation explores parameter bias across two separate techniques used to summarize behavioral data: sum-scores and IRT and formative relationships with those estimated from a MIMIC model. In an empirical study participants performed an emotional identification task while concurrent electroencephalogram data were acquired across 384 trials. Participants were asked to identify the emotion presented by a static face of a child across four categories: happy, neutral, discomfort, and distress. The primary outcomes of interest were P200 event-related potential (ERP) amplitude and latency within each emotion category. Instances of DIF related to correct emotion identification were explored with respect to an individual’s neurophysiology; specifically an item’s difficulty and discrimination were explored with respect to an individual’s average P200 amplitude and latency using a MIMIC model. The MIMIC model’s sensitivity was then compared to popular two-stage approaches for cognitive performance summary scores, including sum-scores and an IRT model framework and then regressing these onto the ERP characteristics. Here sensitivity refers to the magnitude and significance of coefficients relating the brain to these behavioral outcomes. The first set of analyses displayed instances of DIF within all four emotions which were then removed from all further models. The next set of analyses compared the two-stage approaches with the MIMIC model. Only the MIMIC model identified any significant brain–behavior relationships. Taken together, these results indicate that item performance can be gleaned from subject-specific biomarkers, and that techniques such as the MIMIC model may be useful tools to derive complex item-level brain–behavior relationships.
Malay youth entrepreneurship in Malaysia: an empirical update / Chan Kim Ling @ Geraldine and Sivapalan Selvadurai, Bahiyah Abdul Hamid

Youth entrepreneurship figures prominently in the development agendas of many developing countries including Malaysia. This paper offers a glimpse into what empirically constitutes contemporary Malaysian youth entrepreneurship through an analysis of the findings of a field research involving 531 youth entrepreneurs located in the country’s Klang Valley. The aim is to arrive at a general profiling of the youths in terms of personality traits, socio-economic background, nature of business activities and level of enterprise development. The study found that Malaysian youth entrepreneurs were mostly Malay males, aged between 25 and 40, had an upper secondary and university education, married, and possessed the normal business attributes of willingness to take risk, to work hard, to continually learn, and to be undaunted by challenges. They had participated in at least a business course and were running enterprises they built rather than inherited. Their enterprises, mainly of the sole proprietorship type and set more for selling goods than services , had been running for the past one to ten years. They started with less than RM50,000 (USD 15,000) initial capital, employed up to seven male and female employees, and were at a moderate development stage at the time of the study. The paper concludes that the insights this study had furnished qualify, if not contradict, the stereotype long held about the relative inability of Malays to participate in competitive modern business, and may thus help agencies concerned with the economic development of the nation’s youths to finetune their intervention strategies.
Low-field inverse magnetocaloric effect in Ni50−xMn39+xSn11 Heusler alloys

The low-field magnetic entropy changes in Ni50−xMn39+xSn11 alloys (x=5, 6, and 7) were investigated. The martensitic transition shifts to lower temperature with the increase of Mn concentration. Under an applied magnetic field of 10kOe, the magnetic entropy changes are 6.8, 10.1, and 10.4J∕kgK, for x=5, 6, and 7, respectively. The large entropy change in Ni50−xMn39+xSn11 can be attributed to the sharp magnetization change associated with the martensitic transition from a ferromagnetic parent phase to a weak-magnetic martensitic phase. The large low-field magnetic entropy change and low cost suggest Ni50−xMn39+xSn11 alloy as the promising magnetic refrigerant.
Kummer function and High energy String Scatterings

Based on a summation algorithm for Stirling number identity developed recently, we discover that the ratios calculated previously among high energy string scattering amplitudes in the Gross regime (GR) can be extracted from the Kummer function of the second kind. This function naturally shows up in the leading order of high energy string scattering amplitudes in the Regge regime (RR). As a result, the identity suggested by string theory calculation can be rigorously proved by a totally different but sophisticated mathematical method. We conjecture and give evidences that the existence of these ratios in the RR persists to all orders in the Regge expansion of high energy string scattering amplitudes.
A Case of a Thoracic Arteriovenous Fistula Between an Intercostal Artery and a Pulmonary Vein

Arteriovenous (AV) fistulas are irregular connections between arteries and veins, and thoracic AV fistulas are rarely identified in clinical practice. We report a case of a 56-year-old female with a history of esophageal adenocarcinoma treated with radiation and resection who presented to the hospital due to hemoptysis. She underwent bronchoscopy revealing a tracheobronchial fistula, and esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealing active arterial bleed. Subsequent angiography uncovered an AV fistula between her right T8 intercostal artery and pulmonary vein with a pseudoaneurysm. She underwent coiling of her T8 and T9 intercostal arteries with resolution of her symptoms.
Predicting Dyslexia in Adolescents from Eye Movements during Free Painting Viewing

It is known that dyslexics present eye movement abnormalities. Previously, we have shown that eye movement abnormalities during reading or during saccade and vergence testing can predict dyslexia successfully. The current study further examines this issue focusing on eye movements during free exploration of paintings; the dataset was provided by a study in our laboratory carried by Ward and Kapoula. Machine learning (ML) classifiers were applied to eye movement features extracted by the software AIDEAL: a velocity threshold analysis reporting amplitude speed and disconjugacy of horizontal saccades. In addition, a new feature was introduced that concerns only the very short periods during which the eyes were moving, one to the left the other to the right; such periods occurred mostly during fixations between saccades; we calculated a global index of the frequency of such disconjugacy segments, of their duration and their amplitude. Such continuous evaluation of disconjugacy throughout the time series of eye movements differs from the disconjugacy feature that describes inequality of the saccade amplitude between the two eyes. The results show that both AIDEAL features, and the Disconjugacy Global Index (DGI) enable successful categorization of dyslexics from non-dyslexics, at least when applying this analysis to the specific paintings used in the present study. We suggest that this high power of predictability arises from both the content of the paintings selected and the physiologic relevance of eye movement features extracted by the AIDEAL and the DGI.
Effect of Anatomical Location of Dental Implants in the Mandible on Generation of Metal Artifacts on Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Scans

Background: Metal artifacts are the major weak points of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. This study aimed to quantify the amount of metal artifacts generated by dental implants placed in different anatomical locations in the mandible on CBCT scans. Methods: In this study, 98 CBCT scans of mandibular dental implants with prosthetic crowns were randomly selected irrespective of the age and gender of the patients. Of all 98 implants, 42 were placed in the anterior mandible and 56 were placed in the posterior mandible. The samples were divided into two groups of single and multiple implants. The CBCT scans of each implant were evaluated in apical and cervical cross-sections. The amount of metal artifacts generated around the implants was calculated. Data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test at 0.05 level of significance. Results: Higher amounts of artifacts were noted in the anterior mandible compared to the posterior mandible. Additionally, the amount of artifacts was higher in the cervical cross-section than in the apical cross-section. The difference in the amount of artifacts generated in the cervical cross-section was significant between single and multiple implants (P<0.05). However, this difference was not significant in the apical cross-section (P>0.05). Conclusions: Dental implants always generate metal artifacts on CBCT scans, and the amount of generated artifacts is influenced by the anatomical location of implants in the mandibular arch.
Hematotoxicity and nephrotoxicity of long-term administration of Guiera senegalensis (J.F. Gme), Cassia occidentalis (Linn), and Ziziphus mauritiana (Lam) leaves obtained in Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria

Introduction: Previously, we established the phytochemical composition and short-term administration safety of Guiera senegalensis (sabara), Cassia occidentalis (coffee senna), and Ziziphus mauritiana (jujube) leaves, which are common medicinal plants in Northern Nigeria. In the current study, heavy metal contents and long-term administration effects of the plants’ leaf extracts on hematological parameters and the kidneys of albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) were investigated. The heavy metals analyzed were copper, lead, cadmium, nickel, and manganese, while the hematological parameters evaluated were packed cell volume, hemoglobin, red blood cells, white blood cells, lymphocytes, and monocytes. Methods: Twenty-four mixed-sex rats were distributed into four groups of six rats each. Group 1 was made the control, while groups 2, 3, and 4 were administered 1000 mg kg-1 one of the plants extracts for 90 days. Blood and kidney samples were collected across the groups for hematological and histopathological examinations. Results: The heavy metals were present in the extracts within the World Health Organization’s acceptable limits. The treated rats were anemic compared to the control. However, on average, only the C. occidentalis group showed significant differences (P<0.05) in hematological parameters. Unlike the control, the kidneys of the rats fed with Z. mauritiana and G. senegalensis showed vacuolation of cytoplasm and tubular degeneration, while the C. occidentalis-fed rats had inflammation and dilated Bowman’s capsules. Conclusion: These findings reveal that constant administration of high doses of the extracts for a long time may cause health hazards. People are advised to seek an expert’s advice before using the plants.
Effect of Nitrogen Form on Growth and Composition of Tomato and Pea Tissue1

Ammonium nutrition reduced Ca and Mg composition of tomatoes but not peas in a study of NH4 and NO3-N influence at different Ca and Mg levels in solution and media pH adjustment. Growth of shoot and root tissue of tomatoes and peas was reduced with NH4-N when pH of the medium was not buffered. Addition of dolomite increased growth of tomatoes with NH4-N equal to that with NO3-N. The competitive effect of Ca and Mg in uptake by tomato plants with NO3-N was absent with NH4-N. Ammonium nutrition also eliminated competition uptake between Ca and Mg when pH was regulated with dolomite or with the addition of CaSO4. The Ca and Mg composition of the tomato tops was reduced by NH4-N and was directly related to root composition. The Ca and Mg composition of the pea tops was the same with NO3-N or NH4-N while NH4-N reduced the Ca and Mg composition of the root tissue.
Palliative Endoscopic Salvage of a Functionally Obstructed Gastrojejunostomy – Report of Technique

Background: Gastric outlet obstruction secondary to foregut gastrointestinal malignancies can be managed with a variety of medical, endoscopic, and surgical options. Laparoscopic gastrojejunostomy is an option for those patients who are able to tolerate an operation as a long-term palliative option. This operation may be associated with some significant postoperative technical and nontechnical complications, including delayed gastric emptying. This paper describes an incision-less, endoscopic option that we propose can be used to salvage a functionally obstructed gastrojejunostomy. Case Description: A 57-year old male patient had a history of pancreatic adenocarcinoma causing gastric outlet obstruction and underwent a previously created surgical gastrojejunostomy at an outside hospital. His procedure was complicated by anastomotic leak and essentially persistent obstructive symptoms secondary to delayed gastric emptying. Though his anastomosis was demonstrably patent, these symptoms were thought to be secondary to a functional obstruction at the gastrojejunostomy. After repeated workups and many failed attempts to treat these symptoms, he ultimately underwent endoscopic placement of an uncovered colonic stent into the efferent limb of his gastrojejunostomy. This allowed for preferential drainage of gastric contents down the efferent limb, and improvement of his delayed gastric emptying. Conclusions: In a select group of patients with advanced foregut malignancy, and with high re-operative risks, salvage endoscopic stenting may be useful in the palliation of symptoms from a functionally obstructed gastrojejunostomy.
Performance of ‘Hamlin’ Orange on 30 Citrus Rootstocks in Southern Florida

‘Hamlin’ orange, Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck, was grown on 30 rootstocks for 8 years in an area between Florida's east coast and Lake Okeechobee. There were eight five-tree replications in randomized blocks, with 3×6-m spacing. Yield and fruit quality were determined at four harvests and tree size (trunk cross sectional area) and tree losses were recorded. In general, tree on trifoliate orange [Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf. ], trifoliate hybrids, and tangelo (C. paradisi Macf. × C. reticulata Blanco) rootstocks survived better than trees on mandarin, C. reticulata, and sour orange (C. aurantium L.) rootstocks. Most of the losses were due to tristeza virus and phytophthora root rot. The largest trees were on Volkamer and rough lemon (C. limon L. Burm. f.), F 80-18 citrumelo, C. paradisi × P. trifoliata, Troyer citrange, C. sinensis × P. trifoliata, and Sampson tangelo. Fruit production (kg/tree) was best on Volkamer lemon, Swingle, and F 80-18 citrumelo, and hybrid FF 1-131-20 (C. reticulata × P. trifoliata). In terms of kilograms of solids/tree, trees on Swingle and F 80-18 citrumelo, on hybrid FF 1-131-20, and on Sunshine tangelo were the most productive. Average juice content was low because of two late harvests, but other fruit characteristics were normal. Rind color was exceptionally good on Alamoen shaddock (C. paradisi).
Clinical Value of Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing in Immunocompromised Patients with Sepsis

Background Sepsis is a serious threat to human life, particularly in immunocompromised patients; hence, early diagnosis and targeted treatment are important. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (NGS) has significant advantages over traditional diagnostic methods. This study investigated the clinical value of NGS for pathogen identification in immunocompromised patients with sepsis. Material/Methods From July 2020 to September 2021, 90 consecutive patients with sepsis were enrolled in this prospective study. The patients were divided into 2 groups: an immunocompromised group (n=30) and an immunocompetent group (n=60). The pathogens causing sepsis were concurrently identified using NGS and traditional diagnostic methods. The pathogen detection rates and the spectrum of pathogens identified were compared according to the method of detection and between the immunocompromised and immunocompetent groups. Results Of the 90 patients, 77 (86%) were positive for 1 or more pathogens using NGS, and 50 (56%) were positive using traditional detection methods. The positivity rate of sputum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was higher than that of blood samples. Pneumocystis jirovecii and cytomegalovirus infections were more common in the immunocompromised group than in the immunocompetent group. Conclusions The performance of NGS in identifying pathogens for patients with sepsis is better than that of traditional detection methods, especially in immunocompromised patients. Pneumocystis jirovecii and cytomegalovirus infections are more common in immunocompromised patients.
A Single-Run Dynamic-Based Approach for Pushover Analysis of Structures Subjected to Near-Fault Pulse-Like Ground Motions

ABSTRACT In this paper, a fairly effective procedure called dynamic load pattern (DLP), is proposed to account for the effects of near-fault ground motions in estimating the seismic demands of structures from pushover analyses. The seismic demands are obtained by enveloping the results of single-run conventional first-mode and single-run DLP pushover analyses. Improving the estimation of target displacement is another objective, implemented by performing response-spectrum analysis. Three special steel moment-resisting frames are considered and the seismic demands resulting from DLP are compared to those from the nonlinear time-history analysis as a benchmark solution, as well as to those predicted from modal pushover analysis.