Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound Elastography: Review of Techniques and Clinical Applications

Elastography-based imaging techniques have received substantial attention in recent years for non-invasive assessment of tissue mechanical properties. These techniques take advantage of changed soft tissue elasticity in various pathologies to yield qualitative and quantitative information that can be used for diagnostic purposes. Measurements are acquired in specialized imaging modes that can detect tissue stiffness in response to an applied mechanical force (compression or shear wave). Ultrasound-based methods are of particular interest due to its many inherent advantages, such as wide availability including at the bedside and relatively low cost. Several ultrasound elastography techniques using different excitation methods have been developed. In general, these can be classified into strain imaging methods that use internal or external compression stimuli, and shear wave imaging that use ultrasound-generated traveling shear wave stimuli. While ultrasound elastography has shown promising results for non-invasive assessment of liver fibrosis, new applications in breast, thyroid, prostate, kidney and lymph node imaging are emerging. Here, we review the basic principles, foundation physics, and limitations of ultrasound elastography and summarize its current clinical use and ongoing developments in various clinical applications.
Immunogenicity of 60 novel latency-related antigens of Mycobacterium tuberculosis

The aim of our work here was to evaluate the immunogenicity of 60 mycobacterial antigens, some of which have not been previously assessed, notably a novel series of in vivo-expressed Mycobacterium tuberculosis (IVE-TB) antigens. We enrolled 505 subjects and separated them in individuals with and without latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) vs. patients with active tuberculosis (TB). Following an overnight and 7 days stimulation of whole blood with purified recombinant M. tuberculosis antigens, interferon-γ (IFN-γ) levels were determined by ELISA. Several antigens could statistically significantly differentiate the groups of individuals. We obtained promising antigens from all studied antigen groups [dormancy survival regulon (DosR regulon) encoded antigens; resuscitation-promoting factors (Rpf) antigens; IVE-TB antigens; reactivation associated antigens]. Rv1733, which is a probable conserved transmembrane protein encoded in DosR regulon, turned out to be very immunogenic and able to discriminate between the three defined TB status, thus considered a candidate biomarker. Rv2389 and Rv2435n, belonging to Rpf family and IVE-TB group of antigens, respectively, also stood out as LTBI biomarkers. Although more studies are needed to support our findings, the combined use of these antigens would be an interesting approach to TB immunodiagnosis candidates.
Functionalization of Scanning Probe Tips with Epitaxial Semiconductor Layers

Functionalized scanning probe tips hold great promise for the controlled delivery of signals from and to selected nanoscale volumes. Here, a new nanotechnological approach for the functionalization of scanning probe tips is presented, targeting the transfer of the optical, electrical, thermal, or chemical properties of precisely characterized epitaxial semiconductor layers to the nanoscale probe tip. Homogeneously doped, strain-relaxed heteroepitaxial germanium layers, several micrometers thick, are first grown on silicon wafers by low-energy plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition and then employed to functionalize the probe apex. This choice of materials and growth technique enables the future scalability of the tip functionalization process toward high production volumes. The fabricated probe tips are investigated in a transmission electron microscope, revealing that the crystal structure and the homogeneous doping level of the epitaxial layers are unchanged after the probe-tip functionalization process. These doped-germanium tips are also tested as nanoemitters of light at telecom wavelengths (1.55 µm) and applied as scattering probes for near-field mid-infrared microscopy. The reported combination of heteroepitaxial growth and a nanofabrication approach can be extended to a variety of epitaxial materials, thus enabling a new generation of scanning probes for the investigation of nanostructured materials and devices.
Implementing Prenatal Diagnosis Based on Cell-Free Fetal DNA: Accurate Identification of Factors Affecting Fetal DNA Yield

Objective Cell-free fetal DNA is a source of fetal genetic material that can be used for non-invasive prenatal diagnosis. Usually constituting less than 10% of the total cell free DNA in maternal plasma, the majority is maternal in origin. Optimizing conditions for maximizing yield of cell-free fetal DNA will be crucial for effective implementation of testing. We explore factors influencing yield of fetal DNA from maternal blood samples, including assessment of collection tubes containing cell-stabilizing agents, storage temperature, interval to sample processing and DNA extraction method used. Methods Microfluidic digital PCR was performed to precisely quantify male (fetal) DNA, total DNA and long DNA fragments (indicative of maternal cellular DNA). Real-time qPCR was used to assay for the presence of male SRY signal in samples. Results Total cell-free DNA quantity increased significantly with time in samples stored in K3EDTA tubes, but only minimally in cell stabilizing tubes. This increase was solely due to the presence of additional long fragment DNA, with no change in quantity of fetal or short DNA, resulting in a significant decrease in proportion of cell-free fetal DNA over time. Storage at 4°C did not prevent these changes. Conclusion When samples can be processed within eight hours of blood draw, K3EDTA tubes can be used. Prolonged transfer times in K3EDTA tubes should be avoided as the proportion of fetal DNA present decreases significantly; in these situations the use of cell stabilising tubes is preferable. The DNA extraction kit used may influence success rate of diagnostic tests.
Simulation of heavy charged particles damage on MEMS

The paper presents computer simulation results of heavy charged particles radiation effect on elements of electrostatic microelectromechanical systems. Modeling methods of heavy charged particles impact on MEMS elements were envisaged. The radiation sensitivity of different types of fractal electrostatic MEMS were evaluated. Methods of reduction of radiation impact on electrostatic MEMS based on fractal theory were discussed. Conclusions about fractal electrostatic MEMS features were outlined.
Discretization schemes for Lyapunov-Krasovskii functionals in time-delay systems

This article gives an overview of discretized Lyapunov functional methods for time-delay systems. Quadratic Lyapunov–Krasovskii functionals are discretized by choosing the kernel to be piecewise linear. As a result, the stability conditions may be written in the form of linear matrix inequalities. Conservatism may be reduced by choosing a finer mesh. Simplification techniques, including elimination of variables and using integral inequalities are also discussed. Systems with multiple delays and distributed delays are also treated. Finally, the treatment of uncertainties and input-output performance requirements are discussed.
Photoactive and interface layers in polymer solar cells

Polymer solar cells are believed to offer a cheap and environmentally friendly solution to the world’s energy crisis. In this chapter an overview is given of the working principles, photoactive layers, interface layers, and different device architectures. For the most efficient solar cells a blend of two semiconducting organic materials is processed from solution to create a phase separated network. Electron and hole transport layers are used to enhance the efficiency. Different architectures of the device can be used to increase light absorption, efficiency, and stability. These topics are explained in this chapter, followed by an outline of the thesis based on these topics.
Linear combination of transformations

Geometric transformations are most commonly represented as square matrices in computer graphics. Following simple geometric arguments we derive a natural and geometrically meaningful definition of scalar multiples and a commutative addition of transformations based on the matrix representation, given that the matrices have no negative real eigenvalues. Together, these operations allow the linear combination of transformations. This provides the ability to create weighted combination of transformations, interpolate between transformations, and to construct or use arbitrary transformations in a structure similar to a basis of a vector space. These basic techniques are useful for synthesis and analysis of motions or animations. Animations through a set of key transformations are generated using standard techniques such as subdivision curves. For analysis and progressive compression a PCA can be applied to sequences of transformations. We describe an implementation of the techniques that enables an easy-to-use and transparent way of dealing with geometric transformations in graphics software. We compare and relate our approach to other techniques such as matrix decomposition and quaternion interpolation.
Digital Repetitive Control of a Three-Phase Four-Wire Shunt Active Filter

Shunt active power filters have been proved as useful elements to correct distorted currents caused by nonlinear loads in power distribution systems. This paper presents an all-digital approach based on a particular repetitive control technique for their control. Specifically, a digital repetitive plug-in controller for odd-harmonic discrete-time periodic references and disturbances is used for the current control loops of the active filter. This approach does not introduce a high gain at those frequencies for which it is not needed and, thus, improves robustness of the controlled system. The active power balance of the whole system is assured by an outer control loop, which is designed from an energy-balancing perspective. The design is performed for a three-phase four-wire shunt active filter with a full-bridge boost topology. Several experimental results are also presented to show the good behavior of the closed-loop system
Residual stress assessment in human facial tissue due to isotropic gradual growth

Growth and remodeling are among the main features of living tissues. Within the growth mechanics, living systems can be formulated by mechanical phenomena and continuum mechanics. As shown by Fung’s experiments, biological tissues are not stress-free even when entirely unloaded. Moreover ignoring the residual stress and its effects may lead to erroneous results. The exact origin of residual stresses in living tissues is not clear, but one of their main causes is tissue growth. In this research, we have implemented the concept of fictitious configuration for growth mechanics in order to determine the residual stresses due to growth in the tissues. Tissue growth itself occurs in response of the changes in the stress state, but at the same time growth under loading changes the equilibrium state of stress. Hence determining the residual stresses due to growth requires an iterative method. We propose a gradual growth method together with a loading-growth-unloading procedure to estimate tissues residual stresses. The method is applied to a model of healthy human facial tissues.
Cost Minimizing Online Algorithms for Energy Storage Management With Worst-Case Guarantee

The fluctuations of electricity prices in demand response schemes and intermittency of renewable energy supplies necessitate the adoption of energy storage in microgrids. However, it is challenging to design effective real-time energy storage management strategies that can deliver assured optimality, without being hampered by the uncertainty of volatile electricity prices and renewable energy supplies. This paper presents a simple effective online algorithm for the charging and discharging decisions of energy storage that minimizes the electricity cost in the presence of electricity price fluctuations and renewable energy supplies, without relying on the future information of prices, demands, or renewable energy supplies. The proposed algorithm is supported by a near-best worst-case guarantee (i.e., competitive ratio), as compared with the offline optimal decisions based on full future information. Furthermore, the algorithm can be adapted to take advantage of limited future information, if available. By simulations on real-world data, it is observed that the proposed algorithms can achieve satisfactory outcomes in practice.
Gamma frequency oscillation in the hippocampus of the rat: intracellular analysis in vivo

Gamma frequency field oscillations reflect synchronized synaptic potentials in neuronal populations within the ≈ 10–40 ms range. The generation of gamma activity in the hippocampus was investigated by intracellular recording from principal cells and basket cells in urethane anaesthetized rats. The recorded neurones were verified by intracellular injection of biocytin. Gamma frequency field oscillations were nested within the slower theta waves. The phase and amplitude of intracellular gamma were voltage dependent with an almost complete phase reversal at Cl– equilibrium potential in pyramidal cells. Basket cells fired at gamma frequency and were phase‐locked to the same phase of the gamma oscillation as pyramidal cells. Current‐induced depolarization coupled with synaptically induced inhibition resulted in gamma frequency discharge (30–80 Hz) of pyramidal cells without accommodation. These observations suggest that at least part of the gamma frequency field oscillation reflects rhythmic hyperpolarization of principal cells, brought about by the rhythmically discharging basket neurones. Resonant properties of pyramidal cells might facilitate network synchrony in the gamma frequency range.
The influence of thread geometry on biomechanical load transfer to bone: A finite element analysis comparing two implant thread designs

Background: The success of dental implants depends on the manner in which stresses are transferred to the surrounding bone. An important consideration is to design an implant with a geometry that will minimize the peak bone stresses caused by standard loading. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of implant thread geometry on biomechanical load transfer and to compare the difference between two different thread designs. Materials and Methods: A three-dimensional finite element model of D2 bone representing mandibular premolar region was constructed. Two implants of differing thread geometries, 13-mm length, and 4-mm diameter along with superstructures were simulated. One design featured fourfold microthread of 0.4-mm pitch, 0.25-mm depth in the crestal one-third; 0.8-mm pitch, 0.5-mm depth in the apical two-third. The other design had a single-pitch microthread of 0.8-mm pitch, 0.25-mm depth in the crestal one-third; 0.8-mm pitch, 0.5-mm depth in the apical two-third. A static axial load of 100-N was applied to the occlusal surface of the prosthesis. ANSYS CLASSIC 9.0 (PA,USA)software was used for stress analysis as von Mises stresses. Results: A comparison of von Mises stresses between two thread designs revealed that fourfold microthread allows better stress distribution within the implant body by 43.85%, abutment by 15.68%, its superstructure by 39.70% and 36.30% within cancellous bone as compared to single-pitch microthread. The effective stress transfer to the cortical bone is lowered by 60.47% with single-pitch microthread. Conclusion: Single-pitch microthread dissipates lesser stresses to cortical bone while the implant body, abutment, and superstructure absorb more stress. This will have a positive influence on the bone-implant contact and contribute to preservation of crestal bone. Implant with single pitch microthread will thus be preferable to be used in areas where the amount of cortical bone available is less.
Cognitive Loading Affects Motor Awareness and Movement Kinematics but Not Locomotor Trajectories during Goal-Directed Walking in a Virtual Reality Environment

The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of cognitive loading on movement kinematics and trajectory formation during goal-directed walking in a virtual reality (VR) environment. The secondary objective was to measure how participants corrected their trajectories for perturbed feedback and how participants' awareness of such perturbations changed under cognitive loading. We asked 14 healthy young adults to walk towards four different target locations in a VR environment while their movements were tracked and played back in real-time on a large projection screen. In 75% of all trials we introduced angular deviations of ±5° to ±30° between the veridical walking trajectory and the visual feedback. Participants performed a second experimental block under cognitive load (serial-7 subtraction, counter-balanced across participants). We measured walking kinematics (joint-angles, velocity profiles) and motor performance (end-point-compensation, trajectory-deviations). Motor awareness was determined by asking participants to rate the veracity of the feedback after every trial. In-line with previous findings in natural settings, participants displayed stereotypical walking trajectories in a VR environment. Our results extend these findings as they demonstrate that taxing cognitive resources did not affect trajectory formation and deviations although it interfered with the participants' movement kinematics, in particular walking velocity. Additionally, we report that motor awareness was selectively impaired by the secondary task in trials with high perceptual uncertainty. Compared with data on eye and arm movements our findings lend support to the hypothesis that the central nervous system (CNS) uses common mechanisms to govern goal-directed movements, including locomotion. We discuss our results with respect to the use of VR methods in gait control and rehabilitation.
Effects of walking on coronary heart disease in elderly men: the Honolulu Heart Program.

BACKGROUND Effects of walking on the risk of coronary heart disease morbidity and mortality have not been identified in the elderly. The purpose of this study was to determine whether walking is associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease in a sample of elderly men. METHODS AND RESULTS For this study, distance walked (mile/d) was examined at a baseline examination that occurred from 1991 to 1993 in the Honolulu Heart Program. Incident coronary heart disease from all causes was observed over a 2- to 4-year follow-up period. Subjects followed up were 2678 physically capable elderly men aged 71 to 93 years. During the course of follow-up, 109 men developed coronary heart disease. Men who walked <0.25 mile/d had a 2-fold increased risk of coronary heart disease versus those who walked >1. 5 mile/d (5.1% versus 2.5%; P<0.01). Men who walked 0.25 to 1.5 mile/d were also at a significantly higher risk of coronary heart disease than men who walked longer distances (4.5% versus 2.5%; P<0. 05). Adjustment for age and other risk factors failed to alter these findings. CONCLUSIONS Findings from the Honolulu Heart Program, which targeted physically capable elderly men, suggest that the risk of coronary heart disease is reduced with increases in distance walked. Combined with evidence that suggests that an active lifestyle reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease in younger and more diverse groups, this suggests that important health benefits could be derived by encouraging the elderly to walk.
Ordinal Measures for Image Correspondence

We present ordinal measures of association for image correspondence in the context of stereo. Linear correspondence measures like correlation and the sum of squared difference between intensity distributions are known to be fragile. Ordinal measures which are based on relative ordering of intensity values in windows-rank permutations-have demonstrable robustness. By using distance metrics between two rank permutations, ordinal measures are defined. These measures are independent of absolute intensity scale and invariant to monotone transformations of intensity values like gamma variation between images. We have developed simple algorithms for their efficient implementation. Experiments suggest the superiority of ordinal measures over existing techniques under nonideal conditions. These measures serve as a general tool for image matching that are applicable to other vision problems such as motion estimation and texture-based image retrieval.
Cas1p is a membrane protein necessary for the O‐acetylation of the Cryptococcus neoformans capsular polysaccharide

The capsule is certainly the most obvious virulence factor for Cryptococcus neoformans. The main capsule constituents are glucuronoxylomannans (GXM). Several studies have focused on the structure and chemistry of the GXM component of the capsule, yet little is known about the genetic basis of the capsule construction. Using a monoclonal antibody specific to a sugar epitope, we isolated a capsule‐structure mutant strain and cloned by complementation a gene named CAS1 that codes for a putative membrane protein. Although no sequence homology was found with any known protein in the different databases, protein analysis using the Propsearch software classified Cas1p as a putative glycosyltransferase. Cas1p is a well‐conserved evolutionary protein, as we identified one orthologue in the human genome, one in the drosophila genome and four in the plant Arabidopsis thaliana genome. Analysis of the capsule structure after CAS1 deletion showed that it is required for GXM O‐acetylation.
An Optimization Strategy Based on the Maximization of Matching-Targets' Probability for Unevaluated Results

The Maximization of Matching-Targets’ Probability for Unevaluated Results (MMTPUR), technique presented in this paper, is based on the classical probabilistic optimization framework. The numerical function values that have not been evaluated are considered as stochastic functions. Thus, a Gaussian process uncertainty model is built for each required numerical function result (i.e., associated with each specified target) and is used to estimate probability density functions for unevaluated results. Parameter posterior distributions, used within the optimization process, then take into account these probabilities. This approach is particularly adapted when, getting one evaluation of the numerical function is very time consuming. In this paper, we provide a detailed outline of this technique. Finally, several test cases are developed to stress its potential.