Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
References to Netflix’ “13 Reasons Why” at clinical presentation among 31 pediatric patients

ABSTRACT The popular Netflix show 13 Reasons Why graphically depicts the story of a teenager who commits suicide. As media and fictional portrayals of suicide are known to influence suicidal behaviors, professional organizations expressed concern that the show would lead to a spike in suicidality among its viewers. We wished to understand the context to any documented references to 13 Reasons Why among pediatric patients in a large healthcare system. We searched all clinical documentation for patients under 18 for the terms “13 (or Thirteen) Reasons Why” for the six months surroundings the show’s release, recording demographics, location, and clinical context for each reference. This search yielded 63 separate clinical notes of 31 unique patients where 13 Reasons Why was explicitly documented. All but one reference took place during an encounter related primarily to the patient’s mental health, with most patients making these references during an encounter related to suicide (71%; 22). The most common context of the reference (55%; 17) was the patient or guardian reporting that the show contributed to their worsening mental health symptoms. Analysis of references to 13 Reasons Why among pediatric patients in our health system raises concerns about the show’s potential impact on vulnerable youth.
Framework and optimisation procedure for flexible parametric survival models

We have read with great interest a recent article by Crowther and Lambert [1]. In this article, the authors cited one of our previous works [2] and wrote (Section 2.2): Previous work by Remontet et al. used numerical integration, but used quadratic splines, limited to only two knots, with no restriction on the splines. Herein, we would like to draw the attention of the reader to this incorrect reading of our method. Indeed, the method we proposed ([2], pages 2216–2217) enables the use of any type of regression spline including restricted splines (of any order and with any number of knots). For example, throughout the article, we used cubic splines (e.g., Equation 6, Figure 2, Table II or Figure 3). We used quadratic splines for comparison with the RSurv function [3], which handles only quadratic splines ([2] page 2218). In fact, in our approach, any parametric function, which is linear with respect to the parameters, could be used: this is the case of regression splines, restricted splines, fractional polynomials and so on. Thus, all these functions may be used to describe the log excess mortality baseline rate as well as the functional forms and the time-dependent effects of the covariates. When one moves from splines to fractional polynomials, for example, only the basis functions change and our approach applies exactly in the same way. Furthermore, taking advantage of the data splitting, we obtained maximum likelihood estimates using an elementary method of integration that improved substantially the computing efficiency compared with Gaussian quadrature (without the need for the analytic/numerical complex procedure described by Crowther and Lambert in Section 3.2). In our article ([2], page 2225), we underlined this point by writing our function is about seven times faster than the user-friendly RSurv function, the integration in RSurv being based on Gauss–Legendre numerical integration (as indicated in [2] page 2216). We also mentioned that our work confirms the easier implementation of approaches based on split data ([2], page 2225). Since its publication, our method was used in several studies where it showed to be computationally very efficient even with very large datasets [4–10]. The article of Crowther and Lambert added a refinement to the methodology of modelling of net survival by introducing robust variance in case of clusters [1]. Besides, these authors wrote a userfriendly STATA software, which is a useful addition to the already existing algorithms in STATA and R (e.g., relsurv [11] and flexrsurv [12]). However, after several years supporting the modelling on the log cumulative hazard scale [13–15] (which has several important advantages but a major difficulty when multiple time-dependent effects are present), Crowther and Lambert switched to the log hazard scale and, ultimately, recognised that an approach proposed 25 years ago [16] is probably the most appropriate framework to the multivariate modelling of net survival. This seminal framework has been refined thereafter by numerous authors 3376
Use of calcium channel blockers is associated with better cognitive performance in older hypertensive patients with subjective memory complaints

Background Hypertension is strongly associated with cognitive decline and a promising target for dementia prevention. Our aim was to investigate the association between different antihypertensive treatments and cognitive performance in elderly hypertensive patients presenting with subjective memory complaints. Patients and methods Three hundred and seventy-eight elderly hypertensive patients more than 60 years (mean age 70.4 ± 6.3 years) treated with at least one antihypertensive agent and presenting with subjective memory complaints but without dementia were prospectively recruited and underwent a combination of neuropsychological tests, brain magnetic resonance imaging with semiquantification of white matter hyperintensities, carotid echotracking, brachial endothelial function, and ambulatory blood pressure assessments. Results None of the three composite scores (memory score, verbal fluency, and visual memory capacity) was found associated with blood pressure levels. On the other hand, age-adjusted and sex-adjusted analyses showed a significant and positive association between memory score and use of calcium channel blockers (CCBs) (users: +0.14 ± 0.09 versus nonusers: −0.12 ± 0.06; P = 0.016). Multivariate analyses also revealed that CCB use was significantly associated with a better memory score, independently of age, male sex, white matter hyperintensities, and carotid wall cross-sectional area, all of which were associated with worse memory scores. Conclusion In elderly hypertensive treated patients with subjective memory complaints, CCB use was associated with better memory performance independently of blood pressure level and macrovascular and microvascular alterations, suggesting a specific neuroprotective effect of this pharmacological class. Interventional controlled trials are required to confirm the specific protective effect of CCBs on cognitive decline.
Role of Dietary Factors in the Development of Basal Cell Cancer and Squamous Cell Cancer of the Skin

The role of dietary factors in the development of skin cancer has been investigated for many years; however, the results of epidemiologic studies have not been systematically reviewed. This article reviews human studies of basal cell cancer (BCC) and squamous cell cancer (SCC) and includes all studies identified in the published scientific literature investigating dietary exposure to fats, retinol, carotenoids, vitamin E, vitamin C, and selenium. A total of 26 studies were critically reviewed according to study design and quality of the epidemiologic evidence. Overall, the evidence suggests a positive relationship between fat intake and BCC and SCC, an inconsistent association for retinol, and little relation between β-carotene and BCC or SCC development. There is insufficient evidence on which to make a judgment about an association of other carotenoids with skin cancer. The evidence for associations between vitamin E, vitamin C, and selenium and both BCC and SCC is weak. Many of the existing studies contain limitations, however, and further well-designed and implemented studies are required to clarify the role of diet in skin cancer. Additionally, the role of other dietary factors, such as flavonoids and other polyphenols, which have been implicated in skin cancer development in animal models, needs to be investigated.
Characteristics of PRD1, a Plasmid-Dependent Broad Host Range DNA Bacteriophage

Several distinctive properties of PRD1, an icosahedral plasmid-dependent phage, are described. The drug-resistance plasmid-dependent host range of PRD1 extends beyond the P incompatibility group and includes gram-negative bacteria containing plasmids of incompatibility groups N and W. PRD1 phage will infect pseudomonads and Enterobacteriaceae containing either a P or W incompatibility group plasmid. PRD1 adsorbs to the cell wall of R+ bacteria and thus its infectivity indicates cell wall alterations by these drug-resistance plasmid groups. PRD1 nucleic acid is duplex DNA with an estimated molecular weight of 24 × 106. The appearance of PRD1 in electron micrographs is suggestive of lipid content in addition to its buoyant density of 1.348 in CsCl and its sensitivity to chloroform. The latent period of PRD1 varies with the R+ host bacterial strain used for growth of the phage.
Fibroblast growth factor 10 is critical for liver growth during embryogenesis and controls hepatoblast survival via β‐catenin activation

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling and β‐catenin activation have been shown to be crucial for early embryonic liver development. This study determined the significance of FGF10‐mediated signaling in a murine embryonic liver progenitor cell population as well as its relation to β‐catenin activation. We observed that Fgf10−/− and Fgfr2b−/− mouse embryonic livers are smaller than wild‐type livers; Fgf10−/− livers exhibit diminished proliferation of hepatoblasts. A comparison of β‐galactosidase activity as a readout of Fgf10 expression in Fgf10+/LacZ mice and of β‐catenin activation in TOPGAL mice, demonstrated peak Fgf10 expression from E9 to E13.5 coinciding with peak β‐catenin activation. Flow cytometric isolation and marker gene expression analysis of LacZ+ cells from E13.5 Fgf10+/LacZ and TOPGAL livers, respectively, revealed that Fgf10 expression and β‐catenin signaling occur distinctly in stellate/myofibroblastic cells and hepatoblasts, respectively. Moreover, hepatoblasts express Fgfr2b, which strongly suggests they can respond to recombinant FGF10 produced by stellate cells. Fgfr2b−/−/TOPGAL+/+ embryonic livers displayed less β‐galactosidase activity than livers of Fgfr2b+/+/TOPGAL+/+ littermates. In addition, cultures of whole liver explants in Matrigel or cell in suspension from E12.5 TOPGAL+/+mice displayed a marked increase in β‐galactosidase activity and cell survival upon treatment with recombinant FGF10, indicating that FGFR (most likely FGFR2B) activation is upstream of β‐catenin signaling and promote hepatoblast survival. Conclusion: Embryonic stellate/myofibroblastic cells promote β‐catenin activation in and survival of hepatoblasts via FGF10‐mediated signaling. We suggest a role for stellate/myofibroblastic FGF10 within the liver stem cell niche in supporting the proliferating hepatoblast. (HEPATOLOGY 2007.)
Bone Marrow Stromal Cells Combined with a Honeycomb Collagen Sponge Facilitate Neurite Elongation in Vitro and Neural Restoration in the Hemisected Rat Spinal Cord

In the last decade, researchers and clinicians have reported that transplantation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) promotes functional recovery after brain or spinal cord injury (SCI). However, an appropriate scaffold designed for the injured spinal cord is needed to enhance the survival of transplanted BMSCs and to promote nerve regeneration. We previously tested a honeycomb collagen sponge (HC), which when applied to the transected spinal cord allowed bridging of the gap with nerve fibers. In this study, we examined whether the HC implant combined with rat BMSCs increases nerve regeneration in vitro and enhances functional recovery in vivo. We first evaluated the neurite outgrowth of rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) explants cultured on HC with or without BMSCs in vitro. Regeneration of neurites from the DRGs was increased by BMSCs combined with HC scaffolds. In the in vivo study, 3-mm-long HC scaffolds with or without BMSCs were implanted into the hemisected rat thoracic spinal cord. Four weeks after the procedure, rats implanted with HC scaffolds containing BMSCs displayed better motor and sensory recovery than those implanted with HC scaffolds only. Histologically, more CGRP-positive sensory fibers at the implanted site and 5-HT-positive serotonergic fibers contralateral to the implanted site were observed in spinal cords receiving BMSCs. Furthermore, more rubrospinal neurons projected distally to the HC implant containing BMSCs. Our study indicates that the application of BMSCs in a HC scaffold in the injured spinal cord directly promoted sensory nerve and rubrospinal tract regeneration, thus resulting in functional recovery.
Second-order reciprocally convex approach for stability of neural networks with interval time-varying delays

This paper investigates the asymptotical stability problems for neural networks with interval time-varying delays. The second-order reciprocally convex approach is introduced in the Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional combined with the triple integral terms. By using the second-order reciprocally convex approach to handle the linear combination of positive functions arising from the manipulation of the triple terms, several novel asymptotical stability criteria with less conservatism are proposed. Finally, two numerical examples are given to demonstrate the improvement of the proposed methods.
Antinutritional factor content and hydrochloric acid extractability of minerals in pearl millet cultivars as affected by germination

Four pearl millet cultivars of two different species—Kordofani and Ugandi (Pennisetum typhoideum) and Madelkawaya and Shambat (Pennisetum glaucum)—were germinated for 6 days. The germinated grains were dried and milled. Phytic acid and polyphenol contents and hydrochloric acid (HCl) extractability of minerals from the malt flours were determined at intervals of 2 days during germination. Phytic acid and polyphenol contents decreased significantly (P≤0.01) with an increase in germination time, with a concomitant increase in HCl extractable minerals. However, the major mineral content was significantly decreased while that of trace minerals was increased with germination time. When the grains were germinated for 6 days, Madelkawaya had higher extractable calcium while Ugandi had higher extractable phosphorus, whereas iron and manganese recorded high levels in Shambat and Madelkawaya, respectively. There was good correlation between antinutritional factors reduction and the increment in extractable minerals with germination time.
Using Primary Sources

Many students recognize history as a series of facts, dates, and events usually packaged as a textbook. The use of primary sources can change this view. As students use primary sources they begin to view their textbook as only one historical interpretation and its author as an interpreter of evidence, not the complete content expert. Primary sources will fascinate students because they are real and they are personal; history is humanized through them. Using primary/original sources, students are able to connect with the lives of the people about whom history is written and reflect the individual viewpoint of a participant or observer of an historical event. They participate in human emotions and in the values and attitudes of the past. Primary sources enable the student to get as close as possible to what actually happened during an historical event or time period. Primary sources provide first-hand testimony or direct evidence concerning a topic under investigation. Students become historians as they read the accounts of others, especially when there is a contradiction between a textbook account and the actual person interviewed. A student recognizes that what is in the textbook might not be an accurate account, especially when you hear something different from the person who did the research. (It is always a major accomplishment when students find mistakes in text and are able to prove their content is correct and render the content correction), also demonstrating the need to use more than one source when doing good research. Interpreting historical sources helps students to analyze and evaluate contemporary sources--newspaper reports, television and radio programs, and advertising, and learn to recognize how a point of view and a bias affect evidence, what contradictions and other limitations exist within a given source, and to what extent sources are reliable. Essential among these skills is the ability to understand and make appropriate use of many sources of information. By reading primary sources, students can learn to draw conclusions and better understand a historical period. The use of primary source documents in your teaching can present a challenge, but the benefits your students will gain in basic skill building and in critical analysis make the challenge well worthwhile.
Tube-Gel Digestion

This study describes a new protein digestion protocol in which a variety of detergents can be used to solubilize membrane proteins and facilitate trypsin digestion with higher efficiency. In this protocol, proteins are dissolved in solutions containing various detergents and directly incorporated into a polyacrylamide gel matrix without electrophoresis. Detergents are subsequently eliminated from the gel matrix while proteins are still immobilized in the gel matrix. After in-gel digestion of proteins, LC-MS/MS is used to analyze the extracted peptides for protein identification. The uniqueness of the protocol is that it allows usage of a variety of detergents in the starting solution without interfering with LC-MS/MS analysis. We hereby demonstrate that different detergents, including ionic SDS, non-ionic Triton X-100 and n-octyl β-d-glucopyranoside, and zwitterionic CHAPS, can be used to achieve maximum solubilization of membrane proteins with minimal interference with LC-MS/MS analysis. Enhanced digestions, i.e. improved number and intensity of detected peptides, are also demonstrated for digestion-resistant proteins such as myoglobin, ubiquitin, and bacteriorhodopsin. An additional advantage of the Tube-Gel digestion protocol is that, even without electrophoresis separation, it allows high throughput analysis of complex protein mixtures when coupled with LC-MS/MS. The protocol was used to analyze a complex membrane protein mixture prepared from prostate cancer cells. The protocol involves only a single digestion and 2.5 h of LC-MS/MS analysis and identified 178 membrane proteins. In comparison, the same membrane fraction was resolved by SDS-PAGE, and 20 gel slices were excised and individually digested and analyzed by LC-MS/MS. The more elaborate effort demanded more than 50 h of LC-MS/MS analysis and identified 268 proteins. The new Tube-Gel digestion protocol is an alternative method for high throughput analysis of membrane proteins.
Information retrieval models for recommender systems

Information retrieval addresses the information needs of users by delivering relevant pieces of information but requires users to convey their information needs explicitly. In contrast, recommender systems offer personalized suggestions of items automatically. Ultimately, both fields help users cope with information overload by providing them with relevant items of information. This thesis aims to explore the connections between information retrieval and recommender systems. Our objective is to devise recommendation models inspired in information retrieval techniques. We begin by borrowing ideas from the information retrieval evaluation literature to analyze evaluation metrics in recommender systems [2]. Second, we study the applicability of pseudo-relevance feedback models to different recommendation tasks [1]. We investigate the conventional top-N recommendation task [5, 4, 6, 7], but we also explore the recently formulated user-item group formation problem [3] and propose a novel task based on the liquidation of long tail items [8]. Third, we exploit ad hoc retrieval models to compute neighborhoods in a collaborative filtering scenario [9, 10, 12]. Fourth, we explore the opposite direction by adapting an effective recommendation framework to pseudo-relevance feedback [13, 11]. Finally, we discuss the results and present our conclusions. In summary, this doctoral thesis adapts a series of information retrieval models to recommender systems. Our investigation shows that many retrieval models can be accommodated to deal with different recommendation tasks. Moreover, we find that taking the opposite path is also possible. Exhaustive experimentation confirms that the proposed models are competitive. Finally, we also perform a theoretical analysis of some models to explain their effectiveness. Advisors: Álvaro Barreiro and Javier Parapar. Committee members: Gabriella Pasi, Pablo Castells and Fidel Cacheda. The dissertation is available at: https://www.dc. fi.udc. es/~dvalcarce/thesis.pdf.
Does cryotherapy before drainage increase the risk of intraocular haemorrhage and affect outcome?

AIMS/BACKGROUND A prospective, randomised, controlled clinical trial was conducted to investigate the effect of performing cryotherapy before drainage of subretinal fluid (SRF) on the incidence of intraocular haemorrhage (IOH) in the management of retinal detachment. METHODS Eighty eyes of 80 patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment requiring SRF drainage were recruited. Thirty four cases were randomised to receive drainage before cryotherapy (drainage, air injection, cryotherapy, and explant = DACE group) while 46 cases had drainage after cryotherapy (cryotherapy, drainage, air injection, and explant = CDAE group). All cases had trans-scleral drainage of SRF using a 27 gauge hypodermic needle combined with prolonged, intraocular hypertension. RESULTS There was a low incidence of IOH associated with drainage in both groups with no statistically significant difference between the groups (DACE group = 2.9%; CDAE group = 4.3%; p = 0.43). There was no significant difference between the groups in the rate of anatomical success with a single operation (DACE group = 82.4%; CDAE group = 86.9%; p = 0.38). There was no significant difference between the groups in the visual outcome. An improvement of two Snellen lines or more occurred in 52.9% of the DACE group and in 56.5% of the CDAE group (p = 0.93). CONCLUSION It was concluded that the surgical sequence of applying cryotherapy before drainage of SRF can be safely and effectively performed. The sequences CDAE and CDE, when air injection is not required, along with DACE should all be part of the surgical repertoire for the management of retinal detachments.
Connecting people digitally - a semantic web based approach to linking heterogeneous data sets

In this paper we present a semantic enrichment approach for linking two distinct data sets: the ÖBL (Austrian Biographical Dictionary) and the DBÖ (Database of Bavarian Dialects in Austria). Although the data sets are different in their content and in the structuring of data, they contain similar common “entities” such as names of persons. Here we describe the semantic enrichment process of how these data sets can be inter-linked through URIs (Uniform Resource Identifiers) taking person names as a concrete example. Moreover, we also point to societal benefits of applying such semantic enrichment methods in order to open and connect our resources to various services.