Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Priorities in offloading the diabetic foot

Biomechanical factors play an important role in diabetic foot disease. Reducing high foot pressures (i.e. offloading) is one of the main goals in healing and preventing foot ulceration. Evidence‐based guidelines show the strong association between the efficacy to offload the foot and clinical outcome. However, several aspects related to offloading are underexposed. First, in the management of foot complications, offloading is mostly studied as a single entity, whereas it should be analysed in a broader perspective of contributing factors to better predict clinical outcome. This includes assessment of patient behavioural factors such as type and intensity of daily physical activity and adherence to prescribed treatment. Second, a large gap exists between evidence‐based recommendations and clinical practice in the use of offloading for ulcer treatment, and this gap needs to be bridged. Possible ways to achieve this are discussed in this article. Third, our knowledge about the efficacy and role of offloading in treating complicated and non‐plantar neuropathic foot ulcers needs to be expanded because these ulcers currently dominate presentation in multidisciplinary foot practice. Finally, foot ulcer prevention is underexposed when compared with ulcer treatment. Prevention requires a larger focus, in particular regarding the efficacy of therapeutic footwear and its relative role in comparison with other preventative strategies. These priorities need the attention of clinicians, scientists and professional societies to improve our understanding of offloading and to improve clinical outcome in the management of the diabetic foot. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of McInnes solution on enamel and the effect of Tooth mousse on bleached enamel: An in vitro study

Aims: To evaluate the effect of McInnes bleaching agent on the micro hardness of enamel before and after bleaching and to evaluate the effect of G C Tooth Mousse on the bleached enamel surface for its microhardness. Materials and Methods: McInnes bleaching solution, Casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate CCP-ACP (G C Tooth mousse) artificial saliva (Dept of Oral Pathology, College of Dental Sciences, Davengere), deionized water, Vickers Micro Hardness tester (Zwick/ZHV, Germany), freshly extracted teeth, cold cure acrylic, Diamond disc (Horico - PFINGST New jersey USA, KAVO- Germany), straight handpiece (kavo peca reta) and plastic moulds (6.5 × 2 mm). The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare microhardness of the sound enamel surface by Vickers Hardness Number before and after bleaching with McInnes solution, and to evaluate the effect of casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium phosphate (G C Tooth Mousse) on the bleached enamel surface for its microhardness. Statistical analysis: The data obtained from the test were subjected for statistical analysis and are presented as range, mean and standard deviation. P value of 0.05 or less was considered for statistical significance. The changes in microhardness at different times of assessment were analyzed using the paired ‘t’ test Results: All the samples showed decrease in the microhardness after two cycles of bleaching, though immediately after bleaching the decrease in the microhardness was not significant (P = 0.34). However, after the second cycles, it showed a significant decrease (P<0.01) in the microhardness. After application of remineralization solution (GC Tooth mousse), the samples showed a marginal increase in the microhardness (P<0.05) after seven days and a marked increase after fourteen days (P<0.001). Conclusion: McInnes bleaching agent does decrease the microhardness of enamel by causing enamel demineralization and GC Tooth mousse used in the study causes an increase in the microhardness of bleached enamel by maintaining a high gradient of calcium and phosphate ions at the enamel subsurface.
Reduction of Pentylenetetrazole-Induced Seizure Activity in Awake Rats by Seizure-Triggered Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation

Stimulation of the vagus nerve has become an effective method for desynchronizing the highly coherent neural activity typically associated with epileptic seizures. This technique has been used in several animal models of seizures as well as in humans suffering from epilepsy. However, application of this technique has been limited to unilateral stimulation of the vagus nerve, typically delivered according to a fixed duty cycle, independently of whether ongoing seizure activity is present. Here, we report that stimulation of another cranial nerve, the trigeminal nerve, can also cause cortical and thalamic desynchronization, resulting in a reduction of seizure activity in awake rats. Furthermore, we demonstrate that providing this stimulation only when seizure activity begins results in more effective and safer seizure reduction per second of stimulation than with previous methods. Seizure activity induced by intraperitoneal injection of pentylenetetrazole was recorded from microwire electrodes in the thalamus and cortex of awake rats while the infraorbital branch of the trigeminal nerve was stimulated via a chronically implanted nerve cuff electrode. Continuous unilateral stimulation of the trigeminal nerve reduced electrographic seizure activity by up to 78%, and bilateral trigeminal stimulation was even more effective. Using a device that automatically detects seizure activity in real time on the basis of multichannel field potential signals, we demonstrated that seizure-triggered stimulation was more effective than the stimulation protocol involving a fixed duty cycle, in terms of the percent seizure reduction per second of stimulation. In contrast to vagus nerve stimulation studies, no substantial cardiovascular side effects were observed by unilateral or bilateral stimulation of the trigeminal nerve. These findings suggest that trigeminal nerve stimulation is safe in awake rats and should be evaluated as a therapy for human seizures. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that seizure-triggered trigeminal nerve stimulation is technically feasible and could be further developed, in conjunction with real-time seizure-predicting paradigms, to prevent seizures and reduce exposure to nerve stimulation.
Developmental Profile of Claudin‐3, ‐5, and ‐16 Proteins in the Epithelium of Chick Intestine

Proteins in the claudin family are a main component of tight junctions and form a seal that modulates paracellular transport in intestinal epithelium. This research tests the hypothesis that claudins 3, 5, and 16 will appear in the epithelium of embryonic intestine during functional differentiation. Immunohistochemistry is utilized to explore the developmental patterns of claudin‐3, ‐5, and ‐16 proteins in the epithelium of embryonic chick intestine from 9 days prior to hatching through the early post‐hatch period. These claudin proteins either changed their cellular localization or first appeared around the time of hatching. After hatching, claudin‐3 expression was prominent in basal–lateral regions of the epithelium along the entire villus, but was absent from crypts. Claudin‐5 was expressed most strongly in the crypt and lower villus epithelium within junctional complexes, whereas immunostaining of claudin‐16 was localized within goblet cells of the upper villus region. The relative mRNA levels of claudin‐3, ‐5, and ‐16 showed similar patterns; transcript levels rose between 18 and 20 days of development, then dropped by 2 days post‐hatch. Results of this work indicate that the claudin proteins assume their final locations within the epithelium around the time of hatching, suggesting that in addition to their known barrier and fence functions within tight junctions, these claudins may have additional roles in the differentiation and/or physiological function of chick intestine. The localization of claudin‐16 to goblet cells and its distribution in the more mature cells of the upper villus region suggest an unexpected role in goblet cell maturation and mucus secretion. Anat Rec 293:1175–1183, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Trial sequential methods for meta‐analysis

Statistical methods for sequential meta‐analysis have applications also for the design of new trials. Existing methods are based on group sequential methods developed for single trials and start with the calculation of a required information size. This works satisfactorily within the framework of fixed effects meta‐analysis, but conceptual difficulties arise in the random effects model. One approach applying sequential meta‐analysis to design is ‘trial sequential analysis’, developed by Wetterslev, Thorlund, Brok, Gluud and others from the Copenhagen Trial Unit. In trial sequential analysis, information size is based on the required sample size of a single new trial, which, in the random effects model, is obtained by simply inflating it in comparison with fixed effects meta‐analysis. However, this is not sufficient as, depending on the amount of heterogeneity, a minimum of several new trials may be indicated, and the total number of new patients needed may be substantially reduced by planning an even larger number of small trials. We provide explicit formulae to determine the requisite minimum number of trials and their sample sizes within this framework, which also exemplify the conceptual difficulties referred to. We illustrate all these points with two practical examples, including the well‐known meta‐analysis of magnesium for myocardial infarction. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Pathway and the Response to 3-Methylcholanthrene Are Altered in the Liver of Adrenalectomized Rats

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is activated by 3-methylcholanthrene (MC), a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, and environmental contaminants, such as 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin. Adrenalectomized (ADX) rats have decreased hepatic AHR protein and lower levels of MC-induced CYP1B1 mRNA. To further characterize the effects of decreased AHR protein and the response to MC in ADX rats, we measured AHR-mediated responses in the liver of sham-operated (SHAM) and ADX rats, 6 and 54 h after MC treatment. CYP1A2 mRNA was suppressed by 46 to 60% 4 days after ADX in vehicle-treated animals. AHR mRNA was induced 4-fold 6 h after MC in SHAM rats, but no induction was observed in ADX rats. The MC-induced 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylation (EROD) activity in ADX rats was 35% of the activity in the MC-treated SHAM group at 6 h. At 54 h after treatment, the induction of EROD activity by MC was more pronounced in ADX rats than at 6 h. To assess the overall capacity for hepatic P450-mediated metabolism, we measured NADPH-cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR) activity. POR activity was decreased by 50% after ADX. We have shown that the response to MC in ADX rats is suppressed for some, but not all, AHR-mediated responses and that reduced POR activity after ADX could contribute to a decreased capacity for P450-dependent metabolism. The current study contributes to our understanding of how adrenal-dependent factors modulate the AHR pathway and the response to MC in vivo.
The Complex Folding Network of Single Calmodulin Molecules

A multidimensional folding pathway can be observed online in single-molecule experiments. Direct observation of the detailed conformational fluctuations of a single protein molecule en route to its folded state has so far been realized only in silico. We have used single-molecule force spectroscopy to study the folding transitions of single calmodulin molecules. High-resolution optical tweezers assays in combination with hidden Markov analysis reveal a complex network of on- and off-pathway intermediates. Cooperative and anticooperative interactions across domain boundaries can be observed directly. The folding network involves four intermediates. Two off-pathway intermediates exhibit non-native interdomain interactions and compete with the ultrafast productive folding pathway.
WalkieLokie: sensing relative positions of surrounding presenters by acoustic signals

In this paper, we propose and implement WalkieLokie, a novel acoustic-based relative positioning system. WalkieLokie facilitates a multitude of Augmented Reality (AR) applications: users with smart devices can passively acquire surrounding information in real time, similar to the commercial AR system Wikitude; the surrounding presenters, who want to share information or introduce themselves, can actively launch the function on demand. The key rational of WalkieLokie is that a user can perceive a series of spatial-related acoustic signals emitted from a presenter, which depicts the relation position between the user and the presenter. The proliferation of smart devices, together with the cheap accessory (e.g., dummy speaker) embedded in daily used items (e.g., smart clothes), paves the way for WalkieLokie applications. We design a novel algorithm to estimate the position and signal processing methods to support accurate positioning. The experiment results show that the mean error of ranging and direction estimation is 0.63m and 2.46 degrees respectively. Extensive experiments conducted in noisy environments validate the robustness of WalkieLokie.
SIRT3: Oncogene and Tumor Suppressor in Cancer

Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3), the major deacetylase in mitochondria, plays a crucial role in modulating oxygen reactive species (ROS) and limiting the oxidative damage in cellular components. SIRT3 targets different enzymes which regulate mitochondrial metabolism and participate in ROS detoxification, such as the complexes of the respiratory chain, the isocitrate dehydrogenase, or the manganese superoxide dismutase. Thus, SIRT3 activity is essential in maintaining mitochondria homeostasis and has recently received great attention, as it is considered a fidelity protein for mitochondrial function. In some types of cancer, SIRT3 functions as a tumoral promoter, since it keeps ROS levels under a certain threshold compatible with cell viability and proliferation. On the contrary, other studies describe SIRT3 as a tumoral suppressor, as SIRT3 could trigger cell death under stress conditions. Thus, SIRT3 could have a dual role in cancer. In this regard, modulation of SIRT3 activity could be a new target to develop more personalized therapies against cancer.
‘The Head Carver’: Art Extraordinary and the small spaces of asylum

This paper uses the unique collection of Scottish outsider art, labelled Art Extraordinary, as a window into the often neglected small spaces of asylum care in the early twentieth century. By drawing upon materials from the Art Extraordinary collection and its associated archives, this paper demonstrates the importance of incorporating small and everyday spaces of care – such as gardens, paths, studios and boats – into the broader historical narratives of psychiatric care in Scotland. Examples of experiential memorialization and counterpoints to asylum surveillance culture will be illuminated. The significance of using ‘outsider’ art collections as a valuable source in tracing geographical histories will be highlighted.
Metabolic outcomes of workers according to the International Standard Classification of Occupations in Korea.

BACKGROUND Occupation influences the risk for developing chronic metabolic diseases. METHODS We compared the prevalence of MetS by International Standard Classification of Occupations using the nationally representative data in Korea (KNHANES). We enrolled 16,763 workers (9,175 males; 7,588 females) who had measurements for the National Cholesterol Education Program criteria III and other variables. OR and 95%CIs for MetS and its components were estimated according to occupation using the multiple logistic regression models. RESULTS The occupational groups with the highest age-standardized prevalence of MetS were lower skilled white-collar men (31.1 ± 2.4%) and green-collar women (24.2 ± 2.9%). Compared with the unskilled male blue-collar group, which had the lowest prevalence of MetS, the OR (95%CIs) of MetS in men were 1.77 (1.45-2.15) in higher skilled white-collar, 1.82 (1.47-2.26) in lower-skilled white-collar, 1.63 (1.32-2.01) in pink-collar and 1.37 (1.13-1.66) in skilled blue-collar workers in final logistic regression model. CONCLUSIONS MetS and its components vary by occupational category and gender in ways that may guide health interventions. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:685-694, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reinforcement Learning Techniques in ’ Jumper ’

In this paper, we focus on the development of two agents for playing ’Jumper’, under a memory limit of 1024KB and a time limit of 15s per game. Our aim was twofold, to develop a winning agent, and to investigate the effectiveness of machine learning as applied to the problem. Our first AI utilized game-search, and saw us choose between Negascout, Minimax and, alpha-beta pruning variants of the aforementioned. For the development of our evaluation function we investigated 1) the number of safe spaces secured 2) The number of regular spaces secured 3) the number of jump moves possible from a given state 4) board density. For the evaluation to be effective, we tackled the problem of weight generation using machine learning. Our final system used Temporal Difference learning with a gradient descent model. It was found however that learning during play was ineffective and so after learning, we assigned static weights. This agent succeeded in defeating all other agents developed by the competing researchers. The searching player was found to function optimally with Minimax and α− β pruning with a weighting of safe spaces to regular spaces of 0.6:0.4. The second AI developed was modelled after G. Tesauro’s TD-Gammon backgammon player and used a multi-layer perception neural network in place of a standard evaluation function. It was trained against three different players; 1) itself 2) the search player 3) a random player. Our tests show that while the Neural Network player did learn, it developed only so far as to reduce its margin of loss, with outcomes converging after around 20,000 games. However, it did display intelligence in discovering features that previously required expert knowledge to identify. While machine learning applied to search resulted in superior outcomes, the neural network indicated much room for further improvement. Improvement in the neural network is expected to result in more insight into intelligence in general, exhibited through its zero-knowledge discovery of features.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae-Based Molecular Tool Kit for Manipulation of Genes from Gram-Negative Bacteria

ABSTRACT A tool kit of vectors was designed to manipulate and express genes from a wide range of gram-negative species by using in vivo recombination. Saccharomyces cerevisiae can use its native recombination proteins to combine several amplicons in a single transformation step with high efficiency. We show that this technology is particularly useful for vector design. Shuttle, suicide, and expression vectors useful in a diverse group of bacteria are described and utilized. This report describes the use of these vectors to mutate clpX and clpP of the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa and to explore their roles in biofilm formation and surface motility. Complementation of the rhamnolipid biosynthetic gene rhlB is also described. Expression vectors are used for controlled expression of genes in two pseudomonad species. To demonstrate the facility of building complicated constructs with this technique, the recombination of four PCR-generated amplicons in a single step at >80% efficiency into one of these vectors is shown. These tools can be used for genetic studies of pseudomonads and many other gram-negative bacteria.
Nanoscale insights on hypoxia radiosensitization with ion beams

Tumors with a nonuniform oxygen distribution show also an inhomogeneous radiosensitivity. In particular, the hypoxic regions results to be more radioresistant, limiting the efficacy of radiotherapy. It has been observed that high linear energy transfer, LET, radiation can counteract this effect to a certain extent, suggesting ion beam therapy as one of the most promising strategies to treat hypoxic tumors. On the nanoscale, the oxygen effect is assumed to be related to the indirect action of radiation. Several theories exist that aim to provide an explanation of the nature of this effect and its LET dependence, on the radiation chemistry. However, a mechanistic description is still missing and little is known about the indirect action and the chemical processes taking place along an ion track. In this work, the Monte Carlo particle track structure code TRAX has been extended to the pre-chemical and chemical stage of the radiation effect and is now able to simulate the chemical evolution of the most important products of water radiolysis under different irradiation conditions and target oxygenation levels. The validity of the model has been verified by comparing the calculated time and LET-dependent yields of the different radiolytic species to experimental data and other simulation approaches. As an example of the application of the newly implemented TRAX-CHEM code, a study on the dose enhancement effect and radical enhancement effect of gold nanoparticles has been performed under varying irradiation conditions and oxygenation levels. This will contribute to the basic understanding of still unsolved mechanisms for nanoparticle sensitization.
Labelling Experiments on the Origin of Hexa-and Octa- decatrienoic Acids in Galactolipids from Leaves

Abstract Young leaves from three plants which accumulate hexadecatrienoic acid rather specifically in the sn-2-position of monogalactosyl diglyceride (MGD) were incubated with radioactive CO2 or acetate to investigate the origin of this specificity. Labelled glycerolipids were extracted and analyzed for time-dependent changes of radioactivity in their fatty acids. The investigation of labelled MGD and digalactosyl diglyceride (DGD) included determination of radioactivity in hydrolysis products, separation of molecular species by argentation chromatography and analysis of the positional distribution of fatty acids. The results agree with previous observations on the accumulation of radioactive oleic acid in phosphatidyl choline (PC) and formally with the possibility of a PC-coupled desaturation to linoleic acid. They do not support the proposed function of PC as donator of polyenoic acids. Instead the radioactivity patterns may be interpreted as pointing to a relation between fatty acid desaturation and many if not all glycerolipids, although a different interpretation is also possible. Fatty acid patterns in lipids and their labelling indicate the existence of several pools for 1) MGD, from which only that without C16-unsaturated fatty acids is accessible for galactosylation to DGD ; 2) palmitic acid, from which one part is accessible to desaturation via C16:0 and C16:2 to C16:3 . Since these acids are found labelled in the sn-2-position of MGD, the specific positioning may be related to this separation of C16:0pools. Desaturation of C16:0 seems to be the major source of C16:3; 3) linolenic acid, from which those parts present in the sn-2-position of galactolipids or in PC are characterized by a strikingly slow labelling.
Diplopia Following Short Treatment for Moderate Amblyopia

ABSTRACT A case of an autistic child, aged 8 years, who reported binocular diplopia following just 2 hours total occlusion per day for 6 weeks for strabismic/anisometropic amblyopia is reported. There was a history of known long-standing reduced uniocular acuity without treatment. Pretreatment Sbisa bar assessment suggested moderate suppression. The diplopia was treated over 6 months including occluding the amblyopic eye and gradually reducing the density of the occluder until fixation with the nonamblyopic eye could be maintained and diplopia ignored. Possible contributing factors are discussed.