Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Urine Protein NGAL Predicts Renal Replacement Therapy, but Not Acute Kidney Injury or 90-Day Mortality in Critically Ill Adult Patients

BACKGROUND:Urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL) is increasingly used as a biomarker for acute kidney injury (AKI). However, the clinical value of uNGAL with respect to AKI, renal replacement therapy (RRT), or 90-day mortality in critically ill patients is unclear. Accordingly, we tested the hypothesis that uNGAL is a clinically relevant biomarker for these end points in a large, nonselected cohort of critically ill adult patients. METHODS:We prospectively obtained urine samples from 1042 adult patients admitted to 15 Finnish intensive care units. We analyzed 3 samples (on admission, at 12 hours, and at 24 hours) with NGAL ELISA Rapid Kits (BioPorto® Diagnostics, Gentofte, Denmark). We chose the highest uNGAL (uNGAL24) for statistical analyses. We calculated the areas under receiver operating characteristics curves (AUC) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs), the best cutoff points with the Youden index, positive likelihood ratios (LR+), continuous net reclassification improvement (NRI), and the integrated discrimination improvement (IDI). We performed sensitivity analyses excluding patients with AKI or RRT on day 1, sepsis, or with missing baseline serum creatinine concentration. RESULTS:In this study population, the AUC of uNGAL24 (95% CI) for development of AKI (defined by the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes [KDIGO] criteria) was 0.733 (0.701–0.765), and the continuous NRI for AKI was 56.9%. For RRT, the AUC of uNGAL24 (95% CI) was 0.839 (0.797–0.880), and NRI 56.3%. For 90-day mortality, the AUC of uNGAL24 (95% CI) was 0.634 (0.593 to 0.675), and NRI 15.3%. The LR+ (95% CI) for RRT was 3.81 (3.26–4.47). CONCLUSION:In this study, we found that uNGAL associated well with the initiation of RRT but did not provide additional predictive value regarding AKI or 90-day mortality in critically ill patients.
Integrating e-government public transactional services into public authority workflows

Documents submitted by citizens through electronic services, deployed in the context of e-government, must usually undergo processing by some organisational information system in order to complete the citizens' requests and for the reply to be returned to the citizen. The integration, however, of the e-service delivery platform and the organisational information system is often hindered for a number of reasons, including security considerations, platform diversity or idiosyncrasies of legacy information systems. In this paper, we present a generic method for providing seamless communication between the two platforms, enabling the full integration of documents submitted through electronic services into the organisational workflow, thus leveraging the quality of services offered to citizens and facilitating e-service development and operation.
Quality of Information Available Via the Internet for Patients With Otological Conditions

Objective: Evaluate the type, content, and quality of information available via the Internet for patients with common otological conditions. Methods: The Google search engine was used to generate responses for the following search terms: glue ear, otitis media, otosclerosis, Ménière's disease, cholesteatoma, and ear perforation. The first 10 websites for each search term were selected for analysis. Websites were evaluated with the validated DISCERN instrument (Institute of Health Sciences, University of Oxford, UK), the LIDA tool (Minervation Ltd, Oxford, UK), the Flesch Readability Formula, the Simple Measure Of Gobbledygook (SMOG) readability score, and against the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) criteria. Comparisons were made with a similar study assessing quality of information in nonotological conditions. Results: Mean SMOG score was 12.19 years of education (range, 6.2–22.8). The health on the net (HON) symbol appeared on 15 of 49 websites (30.61%). Pearson's r was used to identify interactions between variables and demonstrated a significant correlation between LIDA score and Google ranking (R2 = −0.1195, p = 0.002); between university/hospital affiliation and JAMA score (R2 = −1.7889, p = 0.0182) and commercial affiliation and JAMA score (R2 = 1.0561; p = 0.01). Multivariate linear regression analysis showed LIDA to be the strongest predictor of Google ranking (Page rank decreasing by 0.10572 per LIDA score; p = 0.01). Conclusion: As websites with better Google ranking were only weakly associated with higher quality rankings patients would benefit from being directed to reliable websites by clinicians. There is currently a gap in the available resources for a high quality repository of otological information aimed at patients.
A Correctness Proof of Parallel Scan

The parallel scan algorithm plays an important role in parallel programming, but previous explanations of it generally rely on informal methods that fail to establish its correctness. Equational reasoning in a pure functional language provides a formal vehicle for stating the parallel scan algorithm and proving that a parallel architecture executes it correctly. The two key ideas in the proof are (1) a collection of lemmas that show how folds and scans can be decomposed into smaller problems, supporting a divide-and-conquer strategy, and (2) a formal specification of the abstract parallel architecture in the same language used to specify the problem, making it possible to reason formally about how the architecture executes the algorithm.
Acute moderate hyponatraemia and its rapid correction: effects on striatal and pontine ultrastructure in an animal model of the TURP syndrome

Background and objective: To investigate the effects of moderate hyponatraemia, induced by intravenous application of an electrolyte-free irrigation fluid, as a model of the human transurethral prostate resection syndrome and of its rapid correction by hypertonic saline infusion in rats. Methods: Experimental animals received irrigation fluid (Purisole SM®) 20 mL kg−1 body weight, intravenously. In one group, hyponatraemia was subsequently rapidly corrected by infusion of hypertonic saline (NaCl 5.85%), while rats of group two were 'sham-corrected' by infusion of a balanced salt crystalloid solution. Plasma sodium concentrations were analysed during and at the end of the experiments. After 10 days, experimental and untreated control animals were killed humanely, fixed by perfusion and the brains were prepared for electron microscopic investigation of myelin sheets and glial cell numbers in the striatum and pons. Results: The myelin appearance was unaltered in experimental groups compared to controls, but glial cell numbers were distinctly altered in the pons but not in the striatum. In the pons, oligodendrocytes were significantly reduced in number upon rapid correction of hyponatraemia, while astrocyte numbers were increased in rats with uncorrected hyponatraemia. Conclusions: Our electron microscopic data demonstrate that the effects of hyponatraemia and of its rapid correction are multifarious in animals. This may also apply for human patients during transurethral prostate resection.
An equivalent circuit model for meander-line monopole antenna attached to metallic plate

A lumped equivalent circuit model for a meander-line antenna attached to a metallic plate is successfully constructed. An approximation is proposed and the parameters of the circuit elements are derived from the geometry of the antenna. Reasonable agreement is obtained between calculated and measured resonant frequencies and the model can be used for rough estimation of the resonances for meander-line antennas.
Mobile units of DNA in phytoplasma genomes

Phytoplasmas are obligate symbionts of plants and insects that are responsible for significant yield losses in diverse crops. Genome sequencing has revealed that many phytoplasma genomes appear to contain repeated genes organized in units of approximately 20 kb. These 'potential mobile units' (PMUs) resemble composite replicative transposons. PMUs contain several genes for recombination and some also contain putative 'virulence genes'. Genome alignments suggest that PMUs are involved in phytoplasma genome instability and recombination. In this edition of Molecular Microbiology, Hogenhout and colleagues report that one PMU from the aster yellows phytoplasma strain Witches' Broom (AY-WB) can exist as both a linear PMU within the chromosome and as an extrachromosomal circular form. The copy number of the circular form is much higher in the insect vector compared with the plant, and expression levels of genes present on the PMU are also higher in the insect. These observations suggest not only that this PMU could be a mobile element, but that it could also be involved in a phase-variation mechanism that allows the phytoplasma to adapt to its different hosts.
Matrix-based memory efficient symmetric key generation and pre-distribution scheme for wireless sensor networks

As wireless sensor networks (WSN) have gained popularity due to their broader applications areas, so does the need for effective security mechanisms. Encryption can be used to protect data communication, but severe resource constraints in WSN make necessary key distribution very difficult. This study addresses the problem of key establishment in WSN using a key pre-distribution scheme. In this study, the authors have proposed a symmetric key generation and pre-distribution scheme, using a symmetric matrix and generator matrix of maximum rank distance (MRD) codes. Sensor nodes are divided into groups and some information is stored at each node to enable it to generate link keys. This node division substantially improves the memory required at each node, which is approximately equal to the group size. The proposed scheme also reduces the communication overhead to setup a link key. It requires only two messages to setup a link key between any two nodes. Furthermore this scheme also provides the highest level of network connectivity and scalability. Any two nodes in the network can establish a link key and new nodes can be added at any time without changing any information on previously deployed nodes.
Presurgical integrated MRI/SPECT localization of the sensorimotor cortex in a patient with a low-grade astrocytoma in the rolandic area

We describe the case of a young man who, despite the presence of a tumour in the left sensorimotor cortex, exhibited no motor deficit. Integrated MRI/SPECT-CBF study during motor activation was aimed at determining which cerebral areas were involved in movement execution in this patient and their relationship with the tumour. CBF changes during motor activation were located in two motor areas: anteriorly and medially to the tumour in the left frontal lobe (+29%) and in the right medial frontal cortex (+43%). Integrated MRI/SPECT images provided both an anatomical and functional definition of the motor areas in a patient with a rolandic tumour and could prove useful in determining preoperatively an appropriate surgical strategy.
Molecular cloning of the chicken myelomonocytic growth factor (cMGF) reveals relationship to interleukin 6 and granulocyte colony stimulating factor.

Normal as well as retrovirally transformed avian myeloid precursor cells require the colony stimulating factor cMGF for their survival, proliferation and colony formation in vitro. cMGF has been shown to be a glycoprotein which is active in the picomolar concentration range. Co‐expression of kinase type oncogenes in v‐myb or v‐myc transformed myeloid cells induces cMGF expression and confers factor independence via an autocrine mechanism. Here we describe the molecular cloning of cMGF from a myeloblast cDNA library and show that it is a 201 amino acid residue secretory protein which is modified by signal peptide cleavage and glycosylation during translocation into the lumen of membrane vesicles. A bacterially expressed trpE‐cMGF fusion protein induces proliferation of E26 transformed myeloblasts in a cMGF bioassay suggesting that glycosylation is not absolutely necessary for biological activity. Sequence comparison reveals that cMGF is distantly related to G‐CSF and IL‐6.
Telomerase immortalization upregulates Rab9 expression and restores LDL cholesterol egress from Niemann-Pick C1 late endosomes Published, JLR Papers in Press, November 4, 2002. DOI 10.1194/jlr.M200230-JLR200

Niemann-Pick C (NPC) disease is a rare recessive lipidosis marked by excessive accumulation of LDL-derived free cholesterol and glycosphingolipids in the late endosomal-lysosomal (E-L) system. Here we report that ectopic expression of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTeRT) in human cells leads to an upregulation of the small GTPase Rab9 and its effector p40. Expression of hTeRT in NPC1 cells results in a correction of their cellular phenotype, including clearance of accumulated cholesterol from their E-L system. Specifically, in NPC1-TeRT cells, the transport of cholesterol from the E-L system to the plasma membrane is restored with a concomitant increase in cholesterol esterification. This effect is Rab9-specific since expression of Rab9 in untransformed NPC1 cells also leads to a reversal of their disease phenotype. These effects are also seen in normal TeRT-immortalized cells and it appears that TeRT expression leads to an increase in the transport of molecules, including cholesterol, from the E-L system, and may play a role in increasing cellular proliferation. These results suggest the existence of alternative endogenous therapeutic targets that can be modulated to reverse the NPC1 disease phenotype.
Simulated and measured dose response characteristics of detectors used for CT dosimetry

A CT-SD16 semiconductor detector was calibrated in terms of the computed tomography (CT) air kerma index for the integration length L = 100 mm, CK,PMMA,100, in the cylindrical CT head and body dosimetry phantoms using a DCT10 pencil ionization chamber as a reference instrument. Using IEC RQT 9 120-kV x-ray radiation quality and 25–62.5 mm nominal beam widths free in air, a CK,PMMA,100(DCT10)/CK,PMMA,100(CT-SD16) ratio of 0.97 was observed, while in the centre of 300 mm long CT head and body dosimetry phantoms, CK,PMMA,100(DCT10)/CK,PMMA,100(CT-SD16) ratios ranged from 1.02 to 1.09. Using IEC RQT 8–10 radiation qualities free in air, Monte Carlo simulated dose response characteristics of CT-SD16 and DCT10 were comparable with those obtained from the measurements. Simulations were also used to determine CK,PMMA,100(DCT10) in the centre of the CT head and body phantoms. At IEC RQT 9 and 25–62.5 mm nominal beam widths, the relative values of the simulated dose agreed with the measured values within 2–10% for the head and body phantoms, respectively. A kq correction factor between dose measurements in the phantom and free in air was determined for the model of DCT10 and for the real detectors using measured CK,PMMA,100 data. Simulations were performed using the EGSnrc CAVRZ code.
Manufacturer and Retailer Strategies to Impact Store Brand Share: Global Integration, Local Adaptation, and Worldwide Learning

Although store brands SBs are becoming increasingly important across the world, their success varies dramatically across consumer packaged goods categories and countries. The purpose of this paper is to provide insight into how such differences in SB success originate. Using a unique data set that combines scanner data for a three-to five-year period with consumer survey data n = 20,987 for scores of food, household care, and personal care categories from 23 countries around the world, we identify cross-national regularities as to the role of nine manufacturer and retailer factors in explaining SB market share. For each manufacturer and retailer factor, we determine whether it can be part of a global integration strategy, whether it can be included in a local adaptation strategy, or whether it is a candidate for worldwide learning. Our findings have important implications for national brand manufacturers and retailers.
The Structure of the Insect Egg-shell In Relation to the Respiration of the Embryo.

1. The site of gaseous exchange in the eggs of Rhodnius prolixus (Stahl) is shown to be the rim of the cap which covers the anterior end of the egg. Most of the oxygen consumed by the embryo enters the egg through the micropyles and pseudomicropyles which penetrate the shell in this region. 2. The physical conditions necessary for the passage of sufficient oxygen through these pores is discussed. A continuous gas space under the shell--the presence of which can be deduced on theoretical grounds--is shown to exist in the Rhodnius egg. 3. The relationship between waterproofing and the permeability of the shell to oxygen is discussed.
Identification and Functional Expression of a Receptor Selectively Recognizing Parathyroid Hormone, the PTH2 Receptor (*)

We have identified a G-protein-coupled receptor specifically activated by parathyroid hormone, which we refer to as the PTH2 receptor. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) and parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP, hypercalcemia of malignancy factor) activate a previously identified PTH/PTHrP receptor, which has a widespread tissue distribution. The PTH2 receptor is much more selective in ligand recognition and appears to have a more specific tissue distribution. It is activated by PTH and not by PTHrP and is particularly abundant in the brain and pancreas.
Rapid placement of transpyloric feeding tubes: a comparison of pH-assisted and standard insertion techniques in children.

OBJECTIVE To compare transpyloric feeding tube placement using a pH-assisted placement technique versus a standard placement technique in pediatric patients requiring enteral nutrition. METHODS Critically ill children younger than 4 years were prospectively and randomly assigned to either a pH-assisted or a standard feeding tube placement group. Identical pH-assisted feeding tubes were used in both groups; however, feeding tubes in the standard group were not attached to a portable pH meter. Successful transpyloric placement was confirmed by radiography before beginning feedings. If placement was not successful, a second placement attempt was made after metoclopramide administration. Information regarding tube placement success, number of radiographs, time to initiation of feedings, and daily caloric intake was collected. A cost comparison between the two groups was performed. RESULTS Thirty-four patients were enrolled in the pH-assisted group, and 34 were enrolled in the standard feeding tube group. Ninety-seven percent of patients in the pH-assisted group had successful placement after the first attempt, compared with 53% of patients in the standard group. The average time to successful placement of pH-assisted feeding tubes was 6 minutes. All patients in the pH-assisted group had successful placement after the second attempt, compared with 78% of patients in the standard group. A pH of greater than 5.6 accurately predicted transpyloric placement in 97% (33 of 34) of individuals in the pH-assisted group. Children in the pH-assisted group required significantly fewer radiographs than those in the standard group. Hospital costs were $114 per patient in the pH-assisted group and $135 per patient in the standard group. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that bedside transpyloric placement of pH-assisted feeding tubes can be accomplished rapidly and with a high success rate. This method is associated with decreased radiation exposure and economic savings when compared with a standard placement technique.
Modulation of Host Cell Gene Expression through Activation of STAT Transcription Factors by Pasteurella multocida Toxin*

The Pasteurella multocida toxin (PMT) is highly mitogenic and has potential carcinogenic properties. PMT causes porcine atrophic rhinitis that is characterized by bone resorption and loss of nasal turbinates, but experimental nasal infection also leads to excess proliferation of bladder epithelial cells. PMT acts intracellularly and activates phospholipase C-linked signals and MAPK pathways via the heterotrimeric Gαq and Gα12/13 proteins. We found that PMT induces activation of STAT proteins, and we identified STAT1, STAT3, and STAT5 as new targets of PMT-induced Gαq signaling. Inhibition of Janus kinases completely abolished STAT activation. PMT-dependent STAT phosphorylation remained constitutive for at least 18 h. PMT caused down-regulation of the expression of the suppressor of cytokine signaling-3, indicating a novel mechanism to maintain activation of STATs. Moreover, stimulation of Swiss 3T3 cells with PMT increased transcription of the cancer-associated STAT-dependent gene cyclooxygenase-2. Because constitutive activation of STATs has been found in a number of cancers, our findings offer a new mechanism for a carcinogenic role of PMT.
Effects of Long-Term Use of Nonoxynol-9 on VaginalFlora

OBJECTIVE: Products containing nonoxynol-9 have been used as spermicidal contraceptives for many years, but limited data have been published describing the long-term effects of nonoxynol-9 use on the vaginal microbial ecosystem. This longitudinal study was conducted to examine the effects of nonoxynol-9 on the vaginal ecology. METHODS: Vaginal swabs were obtained from 235 women enrolled in a randomized clinical trial before initiation of use of 1 of 5 different formulations of nonoxynol-9 for contraception, and up to 3 more samples were gathered over 7 months of use. The swab samples were evaluated in a single laboratory. The prevalence of several constituents of the normal vaginal flora was evaluated. The associations between nonoxynol-9 dosage, formulation, average product use per week, and number of sex acts per week were calculated. RESULTS: The changes in prevalence of vaginal microbes after nonoxynol-9 use were minimal for each of the different nonoxynol-9 formulations. However, when both nonoxynol-9 concentration and number of product uses are taken into account, nonoxynol-9 did have dose-dependant effects on the increased prevalence of anaerobic gram-negative rods (odds ratio [OR] 2.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–5.3), H2O2-negative lactobacilli (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.0–4.1), and bacterial vaginosis (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.1–4.7). CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that most nonoxynol-9 users experienced minimal disruptions in their vaginal ecology. There were no differences between the different formulations evaluated with respect to changes in vaginal microflora. However, independent of the nonoxynol-9 formulation, there was a dose-dependent effect with increased exposure to nonoxynol-9 on the risk of bacterial vaginosis and its associated flora. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II-2