Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A cross-sectional study to show Eperythrozoon ovis infection is prevalent in Western Australian sheep farms.

A serological survey and risk factor study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of Eperythrozoon ovis infection in Western Australian weaner sheep, the prevalence of farms with infected sheep, and to identify factors affecting initiation and maintenance of infection on the farm. The study was conducted on 91 farms, purposively chosen from 41 randomly selected regional shires stratified by sheep number and rainfall zones. Twenty sheep were selected systematically from a mixed-sex flock on each farm and tested for serum antibody to E ovis using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Information on putative risk factors was collected using an interview questionnaire. Antibody to E ovis was detected in 4.5% of sheep on 47% of the farms sampled. The prevalence of E ovis infection in sheep was estimated at the 95% confidence level to be between 3.6 and 5.5%, and the prevalence of farms with infected sheep was estimated to be between 37.5 and 56.5%. Most farms with serological evidence of infection occurred in the Great Southern agricultural region (79.5%), south-east of Perth through to Albany (latitude 32 to 34 degrees S, longitude 116 to 120 degrees E), and in the Northern region (12.8%) surrounding Geraldton (latitude 29 degrees S, longitude 114 degrees E). There were significantly more farms (P less than 0.05) with evidence of infection in the Great Southern region compared to the Central region between Geraldton and Perth, and on farms in the region south compared to north of latitude 32 degrees S. None of the putative risk factors examined in the questionnaire were associated with serological evidence of infection on the farm. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Narcissism and Object Relations

Questionnaire measures of the narcissistic personality disorder can predict healthy and unhealthy self-functioning. That this outcome might support Heinz Kohut's psychoanalytic psychology of the self was tested in a sample of 354 undergraduates. In canonical correlations, factors from the Narcissistic Personality Inventory were associated more strongly with grandiose than with idealizing immaturities in Kohut's bipolar self, while difficulties in interpersonal relationships (i.e., poor object relations) were associated more strongly with idealizing deficits. Zero-order and partial correlational data were congruent with Kohut's hypothesis that self-grandiosity can include elements of both “pathology” and relative mental health, but canonical correlations did not support Kohut's claim that narcissism can be described in a bidimensional self-structure.
A metagenomic β-glucuronidase uncovers a core adaptive function of the human intestinal microbiome

In the human gastrointestinal tract, bacterial β-D-glucuronidases (BG; E.C. 3.2.1.31) are involved both in xenobiotic metabolism and in some of the beneficial effects of dietary compounds. Despite their biological significance, investigations are hampered by the fact that only a few BGs have so far been studied. A functional metagenomic approach was therefore performed on intestinal metagenomic libraries using chromogenic glucuronides as probes. Using this strategy, 19 positive metagenomic clones were identified but only one exhibited strong β-D-glucuronidase activity when subcloned into an expression vector. The cloned gene encoded a β-D-glucuronidase (called H11G11-BG) that had distant amino acid sequence homologies and an additional C terminus domain compared with known β-D-glucuronidases. Fifteen homologs were identified in public bacterial genome databases (38–57% identity with H11G11-BG) in the Firmicutes phylum. The genomes identified derived from strains from Ruminococcaceae, Lachnospiraceae, and Clostridiaceae. The genetic context diversity, with closely related symporters and gene duplication, argued for functional diversity and contribution to adaptive mechanisms. In contrast to the previously known β-D-glucuronidases, this previously undescribed type was present in the published microbiome of each healthy adult/child investigated (n = 11) and was specific to the human gut ecosystem. In conclusion, our functional metagenomic approach revealed a class of BGs that may be part of a functional core specifically evolved to adapt to the human gut environment with major health implications. We propose consensus motifs for this unique Firmicutes β-D-glucuronidase subfamily and for the glycosyl hydrolase family 2.
Prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection in non‐Hodgkin lymphoma: a systematic review and meta‐analysis

Background and aim: A recent meta‐analysis has demonstrated an association between hepatitis C virus and non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). There is also evidence on the association between hepatitis B virus (HBV) and NHL. The aim of this study was to evaluate this evidence using a meta‐analytic approach.
Analyzing the suitability of relevant classification techniques on medical data set for better prediction

With the upcoming trend of online transaction in all sectors amount of newly created information increases every year. The huge amount of information has made it unfeasible for data analysts to achieve a deeper understanding of their data without at least some form of computer-aid. Data mining can be used to mechanize the process of knowledge discovery from databases. One of the techniques used in data mining is classification. Data mining classification algorithms can follow three special learning approaches: semi-supervised learning, supervised learning and unsupervised learning. In this paper we apply and analyze the commonly used classification algorithms on medical data set that helps to predict heart disease that accounts to be the primary cause of death worldwide. It is complex for medical practitioners to envisage the heart attack as it requires experience and knowledge. The health sector today contains concealed yet significant information for making decisions. Experiments conducted reveal that algorithm such as J48, SIMPLE CART and REPTREE provides more predictive accuracy than other algorithms.
Exercise to improve gait velocity in older persons.

The effect of 12 weeks of resistance and balance training on strength and gait measures in older persons was tested in a randomized control trial. Thirty-one residents of two life-care communities volunteered (mean age, 82.1 years). The exercise group (E) trained three times per week, performing resistance training to fatigue for knee extension, hip abduction, ankle dorsiflexion, hip extension, and knee flexion, and postural control exercises. The control group (C) met weekly for flexibility exercises performed sitting in a chair. The exercise group achieved significant improvements in muscle strength and gait velocity (p < .05). Knee extension one maximum repetition increased 32% (24% to 40%, 95% confidence interval [CI]), from 55 +/- to 72 +/- 4N.m. Isokinetic knee extension torque increased 25% (3% to 47%) from 40 +/- 5 to 50 +/- 5N.m at 120 degrees s-1. Usual gait velocity increased 8% (3% to 13%) in E from 1.04 +/- . 07 to 1.12 +/- . 06m/s. There was a trend of improvement in maximal gait speed 4% (0 to 8%) from 1.43 +/- 0.1 to 1.49 +/- 0.1m/s, p = 0.054. Gait and strength measures in C were unchanged. A short-term exercise program that trained strength and balance achieved a clinically significant improvement in gait velocity.
Vitamin D deficiency at the Arctic Circle – a study in food‐allergic adolescents and controls

At the extremes of latitude, UVB intensity is insufficient for adequate vitamin D synthesis in winter. Fatty fish, vitamin D enriched milk, margarine and eggs are main dietary sources of vitamin D. Their elimination may increase the risk of vitamin D deficiency. The aim was to assess vitamin D status in food‐allergic adolescents eliminating milk, egg and/or fish compared with adolescents on normal diets.
Is intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) safe for use in patients over 80 years old with acute ischaemic stroke? - The Calgary experience.

BACKGROUND Acute ischaemic stroke is common in older people. There is one licensed acute treatment, intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator, but little information is available on its safety in over 80 year olds. DESIGN Review of prospectively collected data on 62 consecutive patients, aged 80 years and over, treated with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator in a tertiary centre. METHODS Admission demographic data, clinical and CT stroke severity, symptomatic haemorrhage rate and other complications were compared between patients who were dead at 3 months and those who survived. Discharge location and functional scores outcome were reviewed. The results were compared to those of other studies. RESULTS The in-hospital death rate was 24.2% and 3 month mortality 32.8%. Patients that died had higher stroke severity scores at presentation (NIHSS 20 versus 16, P = 0.04). Six patients (9.7%) suffered symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (SICH), three were classified as fatal (4.8%). SICH was significantly associated with death by 3 months (P = 0.02). There were no other serious bleeding complications. The SICH rate is similar to that from other thrombolytic studies and the mortality rate is similar to the natural history of stroke in older populations. CONCLUSION Older patients have high mortality and morbidity from stroke. Older patients should not be excluded from recombinant tissue plasminogen activator treatment on the basis of age alone.
Collaboration Through Open Superposition: A Theory of the Open Source Way

This paper develops and illustrates the theory of collaboration through open superposition: the process of depositing motivationally independent layers of work on top of each other over time. The theory is developed in a study of community-based free and open source software (FLOSS) development, through a research arc of discovery (participant observation), replication (two archival case studies), and theorization. The theory explains two key findings: (1) the overwhelming majority of work is accomplished with only a single programmer working on any one task, and (2) tasks that appear too large for any one individual are more likely to be deferred until they are easier rather than being undertaken through structured team work. Moreover, the theory explains how working through open superposition can lead to the discovery of a work breakdown that results in complex, functionally interdependent, work being accomplished without crippling search costs. We identify a set of socio-technical contingencies under which collaboration through open superposition is likely to be effective, including characteristics of artifacts made from information as the objects being worked on. We demonstrate the usefulness of the theory by using it to analyze difficulties in learning from FLOSS in other domains of work and in the IS function of for-profit organizations.
Design and Validation of Switchable Tracks for Superconducting Levitation Systems

In the past years, different superconducting levitation systems were developed around the world. Most projects focused on optimizing the flux density in the working space of the superconductor in order to maximize the levitation force of the system. In general, these systems use tracks with permanent magnetic Halbach arrays or combine permanent magnets with steel yokes to maximize the usable flux density. Therefore, none of these tracks can easily be switched off to allow a safe crossing or to build a fast turnout switch without moving parts. A new track was designed containing permanent magnets and a YBCO-tape-coil to realize a fast switchable track. In this concept, the permanent magnets provide the flux used for levitation, whereas the coil controls the flux in the space above the track, where levitation usually takes place. The magnetic behavior of this new design was studied and improved with two-dimensional (2-D) and 3-D simulations. Afterwards, a demonstrator was built on which the induced magnetic field was measured in the different operation modes. The results of the measurements and the simulations indicate that the flux density above of the track might be controlled by the coil current. It was proven that the new track design generates magnetic fields comparable to the standard permanent magnetic track, whereas only residual fields are measured in inactive mode, which can be further reduced with negative coil currents.
Vascularization of the Gray Whale Palate (Cetacea, Mysticeti, Eschrichtius robustus): Soft Tissue Evidence for an Alveolar Source of Blood to Baleen

The origin of baleen in mysticetes heralded a major transition during cetacean evolution. Extant mysticetes are edentulous in adulthood, but rudimentary teeth develop in utero within open maxillary and mandibular alveolar grooves. The teeth are resorbed prenatally and the alveolar grooves close as baleen germ develops. Arteries supplying blood to highly vascularized epithelial tissue from which baleen develops pass through lateral nutrient foramina in the area of the embryonic alveolar grooves and rudimentary teeth. Those vessels are hypothesized to be branches of the superior alveolar artery, but branches of the greater palatine arteries may play a role in the baleen vascularization. Through a combination of latex injection, CT, and traditional dissection of the palate of a neonatal gray whale (Eschrichtius robustus), we confirm that the baleen receives blood from vessels within the superior alveolar canal via the lateral foramina. The greater palatine artery is restricted to its own passage with no connections to the baleen. This study has implications for the presence of baleen in extinct taxa by identifying the vessels and bony canals that supply blood to the epithelium from which baleen develops. The results indicate that the lateral foramina in edentulous mysticete fossils are bony correlates for the presence of baleen, and the results can be used to help identify bony canals and foramina that have been used to reconstruct baleen in extinct mysticetes that retained teeth in adulthood. Further comparisons are made with mammals that also possess oral keratin structures, including ruminants, ornithorhynchid monotremes, and sirenians. Anat Rec, 298:691–702, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Validity of Brief Screening Instrument for Adolescent Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drug Use

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism developed an alcohol screening instrument for youth based on epidemiologic data. This study examines the concurrent validity of this instrument, expanded to include tobacco and drugs, among pediatric patients, as well as the acceptability of its self-administration on an iPad. METHODS: Five hundred and twenty-five patients (54.5% female; 92.8% African American) aged 12 to 17 completed the Brief Screener for Tobacco, Alcohol, and other Drugs (BSTAD) via interviewer-administration or self-administration using an iPad. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition substance use disorders (SUDs) were identified using a modified Composite International Diagnostic Interview-2 Substance Abuse Module. Receiver operating characteristic curves, sensitivities, and specificities were obtained to determine optimal cut points on the BSTAD in relation to SUDs. RESULTS: One hundred fifty-nine (30.3%) adolescents reported past-year use of ≥1 substances on the BSTAD: 113 (21.5%) used alcohol, 84 (16.0%) used marijuana, and 50 (9.5%) used tobacco. Optimal cut points for past-year frequency of use items on the BSTAD to identify SUDs were ≥6 days of tobacco use (sensitivity = 0.95; specificity = 0.97); ≥2 days of alcohol use (sensitivity = 0.96; specificity = 0.85); and ≥2 days of marijuana use (sensitivity = 0.80; specificity = 0.93). iPad self-administration was preferred over interviewer administration (z = 5.8; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: The BSTAD is a promising screening tool for identifying problematic tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana use in pediatric settings. Even low frequency of substance use among adolescents may indicate need for intervention.
Purification and characterization of eosinophil cationic protein from normal human eosinophils

ECP (eosinophil cationic protein) was purified in high yield from the granules of human buffy coat eosinophils obtained from healthy individuals. The separation procedure included gel filtration on Sephadex G‐75, ion‐exchange chromatography on Bio Rex 70, and chelating chromatography on zinc‐chelate Sepharose 6B. The normal ECP is a single‐chain, highly cationic glycoprotein which separates on SDS‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis into at least 3 molecular weight forms, with molecular weights of 18.5, 20 and 22 kDa. A heterogeneity in charge was also observed, with the 18.5 kDa form being the most cationic one. The various molecular species of ECP exhibited antigenic identity, identical amino acid compositions, and identical aminoterminal amino acid sequences. The molecular heterogeneity was shown to be caused by differences in glycosylation of the protein.
Reduced Vitamin D in Acute Stroke

Background and Purpose— Stroke leads to a reduction in bone mineral density, altered calcium homeostasis, and an increase in hip fractures. Vitamin D deficiency is well documented in long-term stroke survivors and is associated with post-stroke hip fractures. Less is known regarding levels in acute stroke. Methods— We compared the serum 25-dihydroxyvitamin D levels of 44 patients admitted to an acute stroke unit with first-ever stroke with results obtained by measuring 96 healthy ambulant elderly subjects every 2 months for 1 year. Statistical Z scores of serum vitamin D were then calculated after seasonal adjustment for the month of sampling. Results— The mean Z score of vitamin D in acute stroke was −1.4 SD units (95% CI, −1.7, −1.1), with 77% of patients falling in the insufficient range. Conclusions— Reduced vitamin D was identified in the majority of patients with acute stroke throughout the year and may have preceded stroke. Vitamin D is a potential risk marker for stroke, and the role of vitamin D repletion in enhancing musculoskeletal health after stroke needs to be explored.
Broader implications of SILAC-based proteomics for dissecting signaling dynamics in cancer

Large-scale transcriptome and epigenome analyses have been widely utilized to discover gene alterations implicated in cancer development at the genetic level. However, mapping of signaling dynamics at the protein level is likely to be more insightful and needed to complement massive genomic data. Stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture (SILAC)-based proteomic analysis represents one of the most promising comparative quantitative methods that has been extensively employed in proteomic research. This technology allows for global, robust and confident identification and quantification of signal perturbations important for the progress of human diseases, particularly malignancies. The present review summarizes the latest applications of in vitro and in vivo SILAC-based proteomics in identifying global proteome/phosphoproteome and genome-wide protein–protein interactions that contribute to oncogenesis, highlighting the recent advances in dissecting signaling dynamics in cancer.
Farm adjustment strategies to water-related challenges in the Murray-Darling Basin

ABSTRACT The paper examines how Murray-Darling Basin (MDB) farmers respond to water-related challenges such as induced by climate change and environmental policy. This is a critical and ongoing aspect of farming operations in Australia’s largest watershed. Using the 2013 Regional Wellbeing Survey data, we show that irrigators and dryland farmers adjust their production processes and business models using a wide range of strategies, with irrigators adopting more strategies than dryland farmers and investment-related strategies being the most prevalent form of adjustment. The extent of adjustment depends on farm characteristics: large, intensive-farming units, on-farm income-dependent and annual cropping farmers were more likely to adapt among irrigators. Irrigators also generally place more importance on water-related strategies than output- and input-related strategies. Amongst dryland farmers, hobby farming, non-intensive-farming and perennial cropping units were more likely to adjust than other dryland farms. These empirical findings inform the important debate about developing and targeting adequate policy support for structural adjustment of farming operations in the MDB.
Is there a difference in metabolic burden between men and women?

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Pugnacious Presidents: Democratic Constitutional Systems and International Conflict

How do domestic political institutions affect international conflict? Democratic peace theorists argue that jointly-democratic dyads are less likely to engage in war than other types of states, but these explanations cannot account for the large number of militarized conflicts that fall short of full-scale war among democratic states. We hypothesize that presidential democracies place fewer constraints on the executive’s ability to use force and are, therefore, more likely to engage in international conflict than other types of democratic states. Using standard international relations datasets on conflict, we demonstrate that jointly-presidential democratic dyads are over two times more likely to become involved in militarized interstate disputes than other jointly-democratic dyads. Moreover, we find that when it comes to lower-level conflicts, jointly-presidential dyads are statistically indistinguishable from nondemocratic dyads. These results have important implications for our understanding of democratic peace theory and the causes of international conflict.