Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Association between spectral electroencephalography power and autism risk and diagnosis in early development

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has its origins in the atypical development of brain networks. Infants who are at high familial risk for, and later diagnosed with ASD, show atypical activity in multiple electroencephalography (EEG) oscillatory measures. However, infant‐sibling studies are often constrained by small sample sizes. We used the International Infant EEG Data Integration Platform, a multi‐site dataset with 432 participants, including 222 at high‐risk for ASD, from whom repeated measurements of EEG were collected between the ages of 3–36 months. We applied a latent growth curve model to test whether familial risk status predicts developmental trajectories of spectral power across the first 3 years of life, and whether these trajectories predict ASD outcome. Change in spectral EEG power in all frequency bands occurred during the first 3 years of life. Familial risk, but not a later diagnosis of ASD, was associated with reduced power at 3 months, and a steeper developmental change between 3 and 36 months in nearly all absolute power bands. ASD outcome was not associated with absolute power intercept or slope. No associations were found between risk or outcome and relative power. This study applied an analytic approach not used in previous prospective biomarker studies of ASD, which was modeled to reflect the temporal relationship between genetic susceptibility, brain development, and ASD diagnosis. Trajectories of spectral power appear to be predicted by familial risk; however, spectral power does not predict diagnostic outcome above and beyond familial risk status. Discrepancies between current results and previous studies are discussed.
A needless but interesting controversy

that the bending modulus κ of bilayers of 1,2-dioleoyl- sn -glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC), unlike other standard lipids, with addition of cholesterol. tube pulling (1, 2) shape analysis (SA) and electro-deformation (ED) of giant vesicles (3), X-ray (XDS)
Impaired cerebral vascular and metabolic responses to parametric N-back tasks in subjective cognitive decline

Previous studies reported abnormally increased and/or decreased blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) activations during functional tasks in subjective cognitive decline (SCD). The neurophysiological basis underlying these functional aberrations remains debated. This study aims to investigate vascular and metabolic responses and their dependence on cognitive processing loads during functional tasks in SCD. Twenty-one SCD and 18 control subjects performed parametric N-back working-memory tasks during MRI scans. Task-evoked percentage changes (denoted as δ) in cerebral blood volume (δCBV), cerebral blood flow (δCBF), BOLD signal (δBOLD) and cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (δCMRO2) were evaluated. In the frontal lobe, trends of decreased δCBV, δCBF and δCMRO2 and increased δBOLD were observed in SCD compared with control subjects under lower loads, and these trends increased to significant differences under the 3-back load. δCBF was significantly correlated with δCMRO2 in controls, but not in SCD subjects. As N-back loads increased, the differences between SCD and control subjects in δCBF and δCMRO2 tended to enlarge. In the parietal lobe, no significant between-group difference was observed. Our findings suggested that impaired vascular and metabolic responses to functional tasks occurred in the frontal lobe of SCD, which contributed to unusual BOLD hyperactivation and was modulated by cognitive processing loads.
T cell numbers correlate with neuronal loss rather than with seizure activity in medial temporal lobe epilepsy

Medial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) is a drug‐resistant focal epilepsy that can be caused by a broad spectrum of different inciting events, including tumors, febrile seizures, and viral infections. In human epilepsy surgical resections as well as in animal models, an involvement of the adaptive immune system was observed. We here analyzed the presence of T cells in various subgroups of MTLE. We aimed to answer the question of how much inflammation was present and whether the presence of T cells was associated with seizures or associated with hippocampal neurodegeneration.
How happenings do (not) turn into events: A typology and an application to the case of 9/11 in the American and Dutch public spheres

Abstract Why do some happenings become incentives for cultural or political transformation (that is: turn into events), whereas others remain ordinary occurrences? The theoretical perspectives of cultural repertoires, cleavage structures, and discursive opportunities are prominent and fruitful approaches for explaining cultural or political behavior and attitudes, yet they do not have a satisfactory answer to this question. To fill in this gap, I introduce a typology that indicates how certain happenings merely reproduce existing trends, whereas other ones turn into motives to change them. This can be either because they are “focus events,” which confirm dominant cultural or political patterns, or because they are “shock events,” which form a break from them. I illustrate this typology by investigating the distinct meanings that 9/11 were accorded in the American and Dutch public spheres. This analysis shows that this happening became a “shock event” on the issue of safety in the American case, as it broke with the cultural repertoire of viewing the United States as a safe, militarily impenetrable nation. In contrast, 9/11 turned into a “focus event” concerning the issue of Islam in the Dutch case because it confirmed the discursive opportunities to problematize Muslims, which public actors in the Netherlands had already developed in the years leading up to 2001.
The improvement in cryogenic mechanical properties of nano-ZrO2/epoxy composites via surface modification of nano-ZrO2

This study investigated the cryogenic mechanical properties of modified nano-ZrO2 reinforced epoxy composites. Nano-ZrO2 was surface modified by (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) and results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) verified that APTES was successfully grafted onto the surface of nano-ZrO2. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations indicated that APTES modification was favorable to the dispersion of nano-ZrO2 in an epoxy matrix. Glass transition temperatures of the modified nano-ZrO2/epoxy composites were also improved compared with those of the neat epoxy resin and the unmodified nano-ZrO2/epoxy composite. Results of the mechanical tests showed that the modified nano-ZrO2 could improve the mechanical properties of the epoxy composites more effectively than unmodified ones. Tensile strength and failure strain of the modified nano-ZrO2/epoxy composites were at most increased by 30.2% and 49.7% at room temperature (RT), while their highest enhancements at 90 K were 26.4% and 21.1%, respectively, compared with those of the neat epoxy resin. Besides, fracture toughness at RT and 90 K were at most increased by 53.3% and 39.4%, respectively. These enhancements were mainly attributed to the strong modified nano-ZrO2/epoxy interfacial bonding and the better dispersion of the modified nano-ZrO2 in the epoxy matrix. Summarily, it could be concluded that APTES modified nano-ZrO2 is a promising filler for enhancing cryogenic mechanical properties of epoxy resins.
A grounded theory of clinical nurses’ process of coping during COVID‐19

Abstract Aims and Objectives To explore clinical nurses’ process of coping during COVID‐19 and develop a grounded theory that can be used by leaders to support clinical nurses during a disaster. Background The COVID‐19 pandemic has provoked widespread disruption to clinical nurses’ work. It is important to understand clinical nurses’ processes of coping during disasters to support the nursing workforce during events such as global pandemics. Design We employed the Corbin and Strauss variant of grounded theory methodology, informed by symbolic interactionism, and applied the EQUATOR guidelines for qualitative research publication (COREQ). Methods Data collection entailed semi‐structured interviews with experienced clinical nurses (n =20) across diverse settings. We analysed data by identifying key points in the nurses’ coping processes inductively building concepts around these points. Results The predictor of nurses’ outcomes in this grounded theory was their confidence in their ability to cope during the pandemic. When nurses lacked confidence, they experienced working in the context of acute COVID—a state of chaos and anxiety, with negative consequences for nurses. However, when nurses were confident in their abilities to cope with the pandemic, they experienced working in the context of chronic COVID, a calmer state of acceptance. There were many workplace factors that influenced nurses’ confidence, including adequacy of personal protective equipment, clear information and guidance, supportive leadership, teamwork and adequate staffing. Conclusions Understanding clinical nurses’ experience of coping during COVID‐19 is essential to maintain the nursing workforce during similar disasters. Relevance to clinical practice Nurse leaders can target areas that support nurses’ confidence, such as adequate PPE and staffing. In turn, increased confidence enables clinical nurses to cope during disasters such as a global pandemic.
Plasma lipid metabolites associate with diabetic polyneuropathy in a cohort with type 2 diabetes

The global rise in type 2 diabetes is associated with a concomitant increase in diabetic complications. Diabetic polyneuropathy is the most frequent type 2 diabetes complication and is associated with poor outcomes. The metabolic syndrome has emerged as a major risk factor for diabetic polyneuropathy; however, the metabolites associated with the metabolic syndrome that correlate with diabetic polyneuropathy are unknown.
Relationship between a novel learning slope metric and Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers

ABSTRACT The Learning Ratio (LR) is a novel learning score examining the proportion of information learned over successive learning trials relative to information available to be learned. Validation is warranted to understand LR’s sensitivity to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology. One-hundred twenty-three participants across the AD continuum underwent memory assessment, quantitative brain imaging, and genetic analysis. LR scores were calculated from the HVLT-R, BVMT-R, RBANS List Learning, and RBANS Story Memory, and compared to total hippocampal volumes,18F-Flutemetamol composite SUVR uptake, and APOE ε4 status. Lower LR scores were consistently associated with smaller total hippocampal volumes, greater cerebral β-amyloid deposition, and APOE ε4 positivity. This LR score outperformed a traditional learning slope calculation in all analyses. LR is sensitive to AD pathology along the AD continuum – more so than a traditional raw learning score – and reducing the competition between the first trial and subsequent trials can better depict learning capacity.
Association of Functional Dyspepsia with Depression and Anxiety: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS Functional dyspepsia (FD) symptoms may lead to depression or anxiety in affected individuals and vice versa. These individuals often have more serious somatic symptoms, longer disease recovery time, and tend to consume more medical resources and health care costs. Therefore, recognition of depression and anxiety is crucial to improve clinical outcome in FD patients. The aim of this study is to systematically review the association of functional dyspepsia with depression and anxiety. METHODS This systematic review was reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria. A Literature search was carried out with PubMed and ProQuest databases from 1 January 2010 to 5 October 2020. The outcomes of interest were association of functional dyspepsia with depression and anxiety. The quality of each study was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool. RESULTS A total of 13 studies involving 14,076 subjects were included in this review. Almost all of the studies showed that prevalence of depression or anxiety is higher in patients with FD compared to controls. This is implied by a higher mean score on the depression and anxiety questionnaire assessment tools or a positive correlation in the odds ratio. FD is known to affect more females than males, but psychological links were stronger in males. Moreover, prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms in patients with refractory FD (63.3% and 61.5%) was higher compared to non-refractory FD (20.9% and 23.3%) and healthy patients (10% and 10%). CONCLUSION There is a significant association of FD with depression and anxiety. Thus, identifying psychological factors in FD patients is essential to help clinicians determine the best choice of treatment and improve the prognosis and quality of life of the patients.
Transfusion management of severe anaemia in African children: a consensus algorithm

The phase III Transfusion and Treatment of severe anaemia in African Children Trial (TRACT) found that conservative management of uncomplicated severe anaemia [haemoglobin (Hb) 40–60 g/l] was safe, and that transfusion volume (20 vs. 30 ml/kg whole blood equivalent) for children with severe anaemia (Hb <60 g/l) had strong but opposing effects on mortality, depending on fever status (>37·5°C). In 2020 a stakeholder meeting of paediatric and blood transfusion groups from Africa reviewed the results and additional analyses. Among all 3196 children receiving an initial transfusion there was no evidence that nutritional status, presence of shock, malaria parasite burden or sickle cell disease status influenced outcomes or modified the interaction with fever status on volume required. Fever status at the time of ordering blood was a reliable determinant of volume required for optimal outcome. Elevated heart and respiratory rates normalised irrespective of transfusion volume and without diuretics. By consensus, a transfusion management algorithm was developed, incorporating three additional measurements of Hb post‐admission, alongside clinical monitoring. The proposed algorithm should help clinicians safely implement findings from TRACT. Further research should assess its implementation in routine clinical practice.
Effect of Subcutaneous Anti-CD20 Antibody-Mediated B Cell Depletion on Susceptibility to Pneumocystis Infection in Mice

Anti-CD20 antibody therapy is used for both cancer and autoimmune disease but has been shown to be associated with Pneumocystis pneumonia in humans. This study shows that low-dose subcutaneous anti-CD20 can modulate B cell populations without grossly perturbing fungal immunity against Pneumocystis lung infection. ABSTRACT Prior work has shown that parenterally administered anti-CD20 (5D2) inhibits CD4+ T cell priming in response to challenge with Pneumocystis murina and predisposes to pneumonia. In this study, we investigated the effect of subcutaneous anti-CD20 antibody and Pneumocystis infection. In mice with primary infection, anti-CD20 antibody treatment depleted both CD19+ and CD27+ CD19+ cells but not T cells in the lung at days 14 and 28 after Pneumocystis inoculation. Although anti-CD20 antibody treatment impaired fungal clearance at day 14 postinfection, fungal burden in the lungs was substantially reduced at day 28 in both depleted and control mice in the low-dose group. Subcutaneous anti-CD20 antibody treatment did not alter antigen-specific serum immunoglobulin levels in mice compared with control mice, and there were no significant differences in the numbers of lung gamma interferon-positive (IFN-γ+) CD4+, interleukin 4-positive (IL-4+) CD4+, IL-5+ CD4+, and IL-17A+ CD4+ cells between depleted and control mice after infection. In mice with secondary infection, the lung fungal burden was comparable between depleted and control mice 14 days after reinfection. Low-dose subcutaneous anti-CD20 antibody treatment may delay fungal clearance, but it did not impair the ability of the host to clear Pneumocystis infection, irrespective of primary or secondary infection. IMPORTANCE Anti-CD20 antibody therapy is used for both cancer and autoimmune disease but has been shown to be associated with Pneumocystis pneumonia in humans. This study shows that low-dose subcutaneous anti-CD20 can modulate B cell populations without grossly perturbing fungal immunity against Pneumocystis lung infection.
Association between Sarcopenic Obesity and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Fibrosis detected by Fibroscan.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and sarcopenic obesity share several pathophysiologic backgrounds. No prior studies have determined a plausible association between sarcopenic obesity and NAFLD and NAFLD-associated fibrosis. We aim to investigate the association between sarcopenic obesity and NAFLD, and NAFLD-associated fibrosis detected by transient elastography. METHODS In a cross-sectional study from the 2017-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1,925 participants were identified. NAFLD was defined by controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) scores and significant fibrosis (≥F2)/cirrhosis by liver stiffness measurements on transient elastography. Sarcopenic obesity was defined by appendicular lean mass and body fat. RESULTS Individuals with sarcopenic obesity had a significantly higher odds of having NAFLD [CAP score ≥263 dB/m, odds ratio (OR): 2.88, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.82-4.57, and CAP score ≥285, OR: 3.71, 95%CI: 2.24-6.14] after adjusting for age, gender, and race/ethnicity. The association remained statistically significant after adjustment for socioeconomic status, lifestyle and behavioral risk factors, and metabolic conditions (CAP score ≥263, OR: 2.61, 95%CI: 1.51-4.50, and CAP score ≥285, OR: 3.31, 95%CI: 1.85-5.96). Sarcopenic obesity was also associated with higher odds of having NAFLD-associated significant fibrosis (OR 2.22, 95% CI: 1.03-4.80) in the multivariate model. While those with sarcopenic obesity had a higher prevalence of NAFLD-associated cirrhosis, this association did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS Sarcopenic obesity was independently associated with an increased risk of NAFLD and NAFLD- associated significant fibrosis independent of well-defined risk factors. Targeted interventions to improve sarcopenic obesity may reduce the risk of NAFLD and NAFLD-associated siginificant fibrosis.
Parenteral high-dose ascorbate - A possible approach for the treatment of glioblastoma (Review)

For glioblastoma, the treatment with standard of care therapy comprising resection, radiation, and temozolomide results in overall survival of approximately 14-18 months after initial diagnosis. Even though several new therapy approaches are under investigation, it is difficult to achieve life prolongation and/or improvement of patient's quality of life. The aggressiveness and progression of glioblastoma is initially orchestrated by the biological complexity of its genetic phenotype and ability to respond to cancer therapy via changing its molecular patterns, thereby developing resistance. Recent clinical studies of pharmacological ascorbate have demonstrated its safety and potential efficacy in different cancer entities regarding patient's quality of life and prolongation of survival. In this review article, the actual glioblastoma treatment possibilities are summarized, the evidence for pharmacological ascorbate in glioblastoma treatment is examined and questions are posed to identify current gaps of knowledge regarding accessibility of ascorbate to the tumor area. Experiments with glioblastoma cell lines and tumor xenografts have demonstrated that high-dose ascorbate induces cytotoxicity and oxidative stress largely selectively in malignant cells compared to normal cells suggesting ascorbate as a potential therapeutic agent. Further investigations in larger cohorts and randomized placebo-controlled trials should be performed to confirm these findings as well as to improve delivery strategies to the brain, through the inherent barriers and ultimately to the malignant cells.
Discharge processes in a skilled nursing facility affected by COVID‐19

Transitions across acute and post-acute settings are complex processes that became more challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prolonged hospital stays may result in deconditioning, necessitating patient discharge to skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) for rehabilitation when discharge home is deemed unsafe. Although return home from SNF is the goal for these patients, a safe SNF discharge often requires additional support from home health care (HHC) or from patients' families. Prior work has examined hospital discharge practices for COVID-19 patients, but has not investigated post-acute SNF discharge patterns. Understanding the challenges to safe discharge at every healthcare transition is necessary for systems planning. To understand how post-acute SNF discharge was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, we studied discharge processes for SNF patients with COVID-19. METHODS
“I feel I have no voice”: hospital doctors' workplace silence in Ireland

Purpose Workplace silence impedes productivity, job satisfaction and retention, key issues for the hospital workforce worldwide. It can have a negative effect on patient outcomes and safety and human resources in healthcare organisations. This study aims to examine factors that influence workplace silence among hospital doctors in Ireland. Design/methodology/approach A national, cross-sectional, online survey of hospital doctors in Ireland was conducted in October–November 2019; 1,070 hospital doctors responded. This paper focuses on responses to the question “If you had concerns about your working conditions, would you raise them? ”. In total, 227 hospital doctor respondents (25%) stated that they would not raise concerns about their working conditions. Qualitative thematic analysis was carried out on free-text responses to explore why these doctors choose to opt for silence regarding their working conditions. Findings Reputational risk, lack of energy and time, a perceived inability to effect change and cultural norms all discourage doctors from raising concerns about working conditions. Apathy arose as change to working conditions was perceived as highly unlikely. In turn, this had scope to lead to neglect and exit. Voice was seen as risky for some respondents, who feared that complaining could damage their career prospects and workplace relationships. Originality/value This study highlights the systemic, cultural and practical issues that pressure hospital doctors in Ireland to opt for silence around working conditions. It adds to the literature on workplace silence and voice within the medical profession and provides a framework for comparative analysis of doctors' silence and voice in other settings.