Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Experimental infection of cynomolgus monkeys with simian parvovirus

Simian parvovirus is a recently discovered parvovirus that was first isolated from cynomolgus monkeys. It is similar to human B19 parvovirus in terms of virus genome, tropism for erythroid cells, and characteristic pathology in natural infections. Cynomolgus monkeys were infected with simian parvovirus to investigate their potential usefulness as an animal model of human B19 parvovirus. Six adult female cynomolgus monkeys were inoculated with purified simian parvovirus by the intravenous or intranasal route and monitored for evidence of clinical abnormalities; this included the preparation of complete hematological profiles. Viremia and simian parvovirus-specific antibody were determined in infected monkeys by dot blot and Western blot assays, respectively. Bone marrow was examined at necropsy 6, 10, or 15 days postinfection. All of the monkeys developed a smoldering, low-grade viremia that peaked approximately 10 to 12 days after inoculation. Peak viremia coincided with the appearance of specific antibody and was followed by sudden clearance of the virus and complete, but transient, absence of reticulocytes from the peripheral blood. Clinical signs were mild and involved mainly anorexia and slight weight loss. Infection was associated with a mild decrease in hemoglobin, hematocrit, and erythrocyte numbers. Bone marrow showed marked destruction of erythroid cells coincident with peak viremia. Our findings indicate that infection of healthy monkeys by simian parvovirus is self-limited and mild, with transient cessation of erythropoiesis. Our study has reproduced Koch's postulates and further shown that simian parvovirus infection of monkeys is almost identical to human B19 parvovirus infection of humans. Accordingly, this animal model may prove valuable in the study of the pathogenesis of B19 virus infection.
Maximum likelihood clustering of Gaussians for speech recognition

Describes a method for clustering multivariate Gaussian distributions using a maximum likelihood criterion. The authors point out possible applications of model clustering, and then use the approach to determine classes of shared covariances for contest modeling in speech recognition, achieving an order of magnitude reduction in the number of covariance parameters, with no loss in recognition performance. >
FUNCTIONAL CHARACTERIZATION OF THE SERINE/THREONINE PROTEIN PHOSPHATASE 5 FROM TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI

PP5 is a member of the PPP family of serine/threonine protein phosphatases and is present in all eukaryotes. We previously cloned and characterized a PP5 homologue from Trypanosoma brucei. Here, we synchronized the T. brucei procyclic form by hydroxyurea treatment and showed that TbPP5 expression is regulated during cell cycle progression. TbPP5 transcript and protein levels were maximal in the G1 phase of the cell cycle, and reduced about 3-fold in the G2/M phase. To further evaluate its function, TbPP5 expression was depleted in both procyclic and bloodstream forms of T. brucei by RNA interference. In the procyclic form, TbPP5 knockdown resulted in a moderate reduction in cell growth. However, in the bloodstream form, ablation of TbPP5 caused an 8-fold decrease in cell growth. Furthermore, TbPP5 overexpression conferred the ability of procyclic cells to grow in serum-deprived conditions suggesting that TbPP5 acts downstream of serum factor–induced growth in T. brucei. Taken together; these findings suggest that a serum factor (or factors) induces up-regulation of TbPP5 expression during the G1 phase, which is required for proper cell growth.
Small bowel motility in primary biliary cirrhosis

Objective:Previous studies have shown small bowel motor activity abnormalities in patients with liver cirrhosis of different etiologies, but motility has not been studied in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. Our aim was to investigate proximal small bowel motility in these patients.Methods:Twenty-five female patients presenting clinical, biochemical, serological, and histological findings compatible with primary biliary cirrhosis, 10 female patients with nonalcoholic liver cirrhosis, and 10 normal female controls were studied. Motility of the upper small bowel was measured in the fasted state by means of perfused manometric catheters, connected to external transducers and positioned in the small bowel under fluoroscopy.Results:The average amplitude of contractions was significantly decreased in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis compared with other liver cirrhosis (20.2 ± 1.0 vs 32 ± 2.9 mm Hg). Also, a significantly increased frequency of cluster of contractions and an increased duration of phase II of the migrating motor complex as seen in liver cirrhosis was observed when compared with normals.Conclusions:We conclude that primary biliary cirrhosis patients present motor abnormalities of the small intestine similar to those of patients with liver cirrhosis of other etiologies. In addition, a decrease in the amplitude of small bowel contractions was also found in these patients, suggesting a myogenic involvement.
A Layered Vegetation Model for GPR Full-Wave Inversion

The vegetation cover strongly affects microwave remote sensing backscattered signals and makes difficulties in retrieving the surface soil water content (SWC). In this paper, we developed a vegetation cover model for full-wave inversion of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) data assuming multiple layers with effective electrical properties. Measurements were performed in laboratory conditions over spelt wheat grown in a sandy soil. A stepped-frequency continuous-wave (SFCW) GPR system was set up using a vector network analyzer and a horn antenna operating in 1-4 GHz range in far-field conditions with different incidence angles and both VV and HH polarizations. In order to control the sand surface water content, a water table was fixed at 20 cm depth and 6 time-domain reflectometry (TDR) probes were horizontally placed at 2 and 20 cm depth. Measurements were performed and recorded hourly for about 1 month and the canopy height was measured daily. The effective electromagnetic properties of the vegetation layer were modeled using a complex refractive index model (CRIM) combined with a single Debye relaxation model. A scattering loss parameter was included in the electromagnetic full-wave GPR model for the vegetation layer. The proposed method was also applied in a ~7 ha agricultural field with a vegetation canopy height of ~27 cm (spring wheat). The laboratory measurements resulted in a strong link between the vegetation scattering losses parameter and canopy height (generally, the biomass structure), which cannot be retrieved directly from the GPR measurements. Applying this vegetation model to the GPR full-wave inversion led to a significant correction on GPR-derived SWC values from the field measurements.
ISDN-Oriented Modular VLSI Chip Set for Central-Office and PABX Applications

This paper describes a new ISDN-oriented modular (IOM®) architecture developed to establish the subscriber basic access to an Integrated Services Digital Network in a central-office or PABX environment with a minimum number of VLSI circuits. A four-component VLSI chip set is presented, consisting of the S-bus interface circuit (SBC), the ISDN burst transceiver circuit (IBC), and the ISDN echo cancellation circuit (IEC) for layer 1 data transmission at the fourwire S and the two-wire U interface, respectively, and the ISDN communication controller for layer 2 link access protocol control. The development strategy, the functions of the IC's, and examples for their application in the subscriber terminal and digital subscriber line board are emphasized.
An update on PCR use for minimal residual disease monitoring in acute lymphoblastic leukemia

ABSTRACT Introduction: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the first neoplasm where the assessment of early response to therapy by minimal residual disease (MRD) monitoring has proven to be a fundamental tool for guiding therapeutic choices. In recent years, thanks to real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR), MRD monitoring has further achieved higher levels of sensitivity and standardization. However, some outstanding issues still remain to be addressed and emerging technologies hold the promise of improving MRD detection in ALL patients. Areas covered: Through a comprehensive review of the literature, we analyze the state-of-the-art of molecular MRD assessment in ALL to better understand how, in the upcoming years, some of its limitations could be tackled by emerging molecular technologies. Furthermore, we highlight the future role of molecular MRD monitoring in the context of personalized protocols, taking into account the growing genetic complexity in ALL. Expert commentary: Although new molecular technologies are promising tools for MRD assessment, qPCR still remains the gold standard for evaluating MRD in ALL. High-throughput sequencing and droplet digital PCR allow to identify new prognostic factors and/or MRD targets at diagnosis and to perform earlier MRD evaluations, thereby optimizing patient stratification and earlier MRD-based clinical intervention to improve ALL patient outcomes.
Nipah Virus: Vaccination and Passive Protection Studies in a Hamster Model

ABSTRACT Nipah virus, a member of the paramyxovirus family, was first isolated and identified in 1999 when the virus crossed the species barrier from fruit bats to pigs and then infected humans, inducing an encephalitis with up to 40% mortality. At present there is no prophylaxis for Nipah virus. We investigated the possibility of vaccination and passive transfer of antibodies as interventions against this disease. We show that both of the Nipah virus glycoproteins (G and F) when expressed as vaccinia virus recombinants induced an immune response in hamsters which protected against a lethal challenge by Nipah virus. Similarly, passive transfer of antibody induced by either of the glycoproteins protected the animals. In both the active and passive immunization studies, however, the challenge virus was capable of hyperimmunizing the vaccinated animals, suggesting that although the virus replicates under these conditions, the immune system can eventually control the infection.
Immuno‐qPCR detection of the tandem affinity purification (TAP)‐tag as a sensitive and accurate tool suitable for large‐scale protein quantification

The tandem affinity purification (TAP)‐tag has rapidly gained a wide popularity, mostly in studies on protein interactions, but lately also in large‐scale protein quantification studies. We have developed an immuno‐quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) method to achieve rapid, sensitive and accurate quantification of TAP‐tagged (and protein A‐tagged) proteins in yeast with a detection range between 107 and 1010 molecules. The immuno‐qPCR protein quantification showed an excellent correlation to the published in vivo fluorescent protein (GFP)‐based large‐scale protein quantifications, but allowed for a much higher sensitivity. The correlation with published data from the large‐scale Western blotting‐based quantification of the TAP‐tag was lower, but the sensitivity of detection was on roughly the same level. The practical use of the immuno‐qPCR approach was demonstrated by analysis of osmo‐regulated proteins, where the 2000‐fold increase in expression of Catalase (Ctt1p), from an extremely low basal expression, could be accurately quantified. All steps of the method, from cell growth, to protein extraction and determination and the immuno‐qPCR reaction itself are potentially amenable to automatization. Therefore, since the TAP‐tag and protein A are useful in most model organisms, the immuno‐qPCR method is both generic and suitable for large‐scale studies.
New ESC/EAS Guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias − any controversies behind the consensus?

As it is with all the other guidelines, no matter whether everybody will agree with all the statements in these guidelines or not (it has to be stressed once again that they are based on evaluation of all available scientific evidence at the time od the writing and reviewing preocess), the most important will be their implementation.
Cell density impacts on Candida glabrata survival in hypo-osmotic stress.

Candida glabrata cells suspended in water are under hypo-osmotic stress and undergo cell death in 1-2 days, unless they are at a density of more than 10(5 ) CFU mL(-1) . The dying cells exhibit FITC-annexin V staining, indicative of programmed cell death (apoptosis). In a higher cell density, cells are protected and survive at least for 4 days. Filtrates from cells at high density can protect those at lower density, indicating that cells release substances, amounting to c. 5 mg L(-1) of cell suspension, that protect each other against hypo-osmotic stress. In a concentrated form, the released materials can support growth, indicating that the protective material includes carbon and nitrogen sources, as well as vitamins that are required by C. glabrata for growth. We conclude that cell death from hypo-osmotic stress can be alleviated by small amounts of nutrients.
DBMS meets DSMS - Towards a Federated Solution

In this paper, we describe the requirements and benefits for integrating data stream processing with database management systems. Currently, these technologies focus on very different tasks; streams systems extract instances of patterns from streams of transient data, while database systems store, manage, provide access to, and analyze persistent data. Many applications, e.g., patient care, program trading, or flight supervision, however, depend on the functionality and operational characteristics of both types of systems. We discuss how to design a federated system which provides the benefits of both approaches.
IFRS and value relevance: evidence based on Canadian adoption

Purpose - – The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether financial information prepared and disclosed under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) has incremental value relevance vs information prepared under generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) in Canada. Design/methodology/approach - – The authors employ a difference in differences methodology and estimate value relevance using: first, the adjusted Findings - – The authors provide empirical evidence, based on unique Canadian environment, that accounting information prepared and disclosed under IFRS exhibits higher price and returns value relevance than accounting information prepared previously under local GAAP. Sensitivity analyses and yearly trends regressions produce collaborating evidence. Originality/value - – The study provides early empirical evidence that value relevance increases in mandatory IFRS adoption, based on unique Canadian adoption. The Canadian adoption is unique because Canada: first, is the first G7 non-European country to adopt IFRS; second, had pursued a dual strategy of harmonizing with the US GAAP while supporting IFRS convergence; third, provided information environment that mitigates the problems associated with measuring the effects of IFRS adoption in the European countries where IFRS or its predecessor – international accounting standards – had permeated the reporting environment prior to the mandatory adoption in 2005; and fourth, allowed firms listed on the US exchanges to continue to use or adopt the US GAAP for financial reporting and thus, provided a group of benchmark firms drawn from the same social-political and economic environment as the treatment firms. The study clarifies prior inconsistent results from European samples.
Rapid Assessment of Perfusion–Diffusion Mismatch

Background and Purpose— For MR perfusion–diffusion (PWI-DWI) mismatch to become routine in thrombolysis patient selection, rapid and reliable assessment tools are required. We examined interrater variability in PWI/DWI volume measurements and developed a rapid assessment tool based on the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Scores (ASPECTS) system. Methods— DWI and PWI were performed in 35 patients with stroke <6 hours after symptom onset. DWI lesion and PWI (time to peak) volumes were measured with planimetric techniques by 4 raters and the 95% limits of agreement calculated. ASPECT scores were assessed separately by 4 investigators (2 experienced and 2 inexperienced) for DWI (MR DWI scores) and PWI (MR time to peak scores). MR mismatch scores were calculated as MR DWI-MR time to peak scores. Results— Interobserver variability was much greater for PWI (95% limit of agreement=±72.3 mL) than for DWI (95% limit of agreement=±12.6 mL). A semiautomated PWI volume (time to peak+2 s) was therefore used to calculate mismatch volume. MR mismatch scores ≥2 predicted 20% PWI-DWI mismatch by volume with mean 78% sensitivity (range, 72% to 84%) and 88% specificity (range, 83% to 90%). There was excellent agreement on mismatch classification using MR mismatch scores between experienced raters (weighted kappa scores of 0.94) with agreement in 34 of 35 cases. Agreement was less consistent between inexperienced raters (weighted kappa=0.49, 28 of 35 cases). Conclusions— Variability in planimetric mismatch measurements arises primarily from differences in PWI volume assessment. High specificity and interrater reliability may make MR mismatch scores an ideal rapid screening tool for potential thrombolysis patients.
Planar eleven antenna as a wideband MIMO micro-base station antenna

A new low-profile planar eleven antenna is designed as a wideband MIMO antenna for micro-base stations in future wireless communication systems. The design criterion is to minimize both the reflection coefficient and the ratio of the required average received power over the threshold for 95% of the total probability of detection (PoD) in the Rich Isotropic Multipath (RIMP) and random Line-of-Sight (RLOS) scenarios of both one-bit stream and two-bit stream. The design is performed via optimization with a genetic algorithm.
Prevention and Management of Poststroke Complications

ABSTRACT Purpose of Review: This article provides a synopsis of the immediate and delayed medical complications of stroke, with an emphasis on prevention and management of these complications. Recent Findings: Meta-analysis of the trials for endovascular treatment of acute stroke shows no significant increase in hemorrhagic events. Rehabilitation guidelines published by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association in 2016 aid in providing the best clinical practice for patients with stroke, from the time of their initial hospitalization to their return to the community. Summary: Medical complications from stroke are common and are associated with poor clinical outcomes, increased length of hospital stays and higher rates of readmission, increased cost of care, delayed time to rehabilitation, and increased mortality. Being cognizant of the common complications encountered, taking appropriate measures to prevent them, and knowing how to manage them when they do occur are essential to the continued care of patients with stroke.
The effect of trade policy on firm productivity in Thai manufacturing

The paper examines the effect of trade policy on firm productivity using two recent industrial censuses of Thai manufacturing (i.e., 2006 and 2011). Trade policy and global participation are treated as two different variables in our analysis. Controlling for firms’ global participation, which is defined as export-sale ratio and the extent to which raw materials are imported, our study finds that trade liberalization could induce firms to commit to activities that improve productivity. The effective rate of protection, where output and input tariffs are taken into consideration together, matters in improving firm productivity. Thus, it would be risky to continue tariff reform by focusing solely on a reduction in input tariffs while leaving output tariffs untouched. In fact, both input and output tariffs must be taken into consideration to neutralize incentives in trade policy reform.
Taste Mask, Design and Evaluation of an Oral Formulation Using Ion Exchange Resin as Drug Carrier

The purpose of this research was to mask the bitter taste of Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride (DPH) using cation exchange resins. Indion 234 and Tulsion 343 that contained crosslinked polyacrylic backbone were used. The drug resin complexes (DRC) were prepared by batch process by taking drug: resin ratios 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3. The optimum drug: resin ratio and the time required for maximum complexation was determined. The drug resinates were evaluated for the drug content, taste, micromeritic properties drug release and X-ray diffraction (PXRD). Effervescent and dispersible tablets were developed from optimum drug: resin ratios of 1:2 and 1:1. The formulations were evaluated for uniformity of dispersion, disintegration time, and in vitro dissolution. The X-ray diffraction study confirmed the monomolecularity of entrapped drug in the resin beads. The taste evaluation depicted the successful taste masking of DPH with drug resin complexes. The drug release of 95% in 15 min was observed for effervescent and dispersible tablets.
Combining UAV-based hyperspectral imagery and machine learning algorithms for soil moisture content monitoring

Soil moisture content (SMC) is an important factor that affects agricultural development in arid regions. Compared with the space-borne remote sensing system, the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has been widely used because of its stronger controllability and higher resolution. It also provides a more convenient method for monitoring SMC than normal measurement methods that includes field sampling and oven-drying techniques. However, research based on UAV hyperspectral data has not yet formed a standard procedure in arid regions. Therefore, a universal processing scheme is required. We hypothesized that combining pretreatments of UAV hyperspectral imagery under optimal indices and a set of field observations within a machine learning framework will yield a highly accurate estimate of SMC. Optimal 2D spectral indices act as indispensable variables and allow us to characterize a model’s SMC performance and spatial distribution. For this purpose, we used hyperspectral imagery and a total of 70 topsoil samples (0–10 cm) from the farmland (2.5 × 104 m2) of Fukang City, Xinjiang Uygur AutonomousRegion, China. The random forest (RF) method and extreme learning machine (ELM) were used to estimate the SMC using six methods of pretreatments combined with four optimal spectral indices. The validation accuracy of the estimated method clearly increased compared with that of linear models. The combination of pretreatments and indices by our assessment effectively eliminated the interference and the noises. Comparing two machine learning algorithms showed that the RF models were superior to the ELM models, and the best model was PIR (R2val = 0.907, RMSEP = 1.477, and RPD = 3.396). The SMC map predicted via the best scheme was highly similar to the SMC map measured. We conclude that combining preprocessed spectral indices and machine learning algorithms allows estimation of SMC with high accuracy (R2val = 0.907) via UAV hyperspectral imagery on a regional scale. Ultimately, our program might improve management and conservation strategies for agroecosystem systems in arid regions.
You are One of Us Now! How Do Share Prices of Rivals React to Privatization?

By using a unique data set from the Turkish cement industry, we analyze the impact of privatization on the market value of rival firms. Privatization increases efficiency, which is bad news for rivals. But if an incumbent buys a state owned firm, this leads to a higher market concentration which is good news for rivals. We show that privatization leads to overall positive abnormal returns for rivals because the concentration effect outweighs the efficiency effect. Consistent with our theory, this effect is reinforced when the initial market concentration is high.