Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The regenerative potential of fibroblasts in a new diabetes‐induced delayed humanised wound healing model

Cutaneous diabetic wounds greatly affect the quality of life of patients, causing a substantial economic impact on the healthcare system. The limited clinical success of conventional treatments is mainly attributed to the lack of knowledge of the pathogenic mechanisms related to chronic ulceration. Therefore, management of diabetic ulcers remains a challenging clinical issue. Within this context, reliable animal models that recapitulate situations of impaired wound healing have become essential. In this study, we established a new in vivo humanised model of delayed wound healing in a diabetic context that reproduces the main features of the human disease. Diabetes was induced by multiple low doses of streptozotocin in bioengineered human‐skin‐engrafted immunodeficient mice. The significant delay in wound closure exhibited in diabetic wounds was mainly attributed to alterations in the granulation tissue formation and resolution, involving defects in wound bed maturation, vascularisation, inflammatory response and collagen deposition. In the new model, a cell‐based wound therapy consisting of the application of plasma‐derived fibrin dermal scaffolds containing fibroblasts consistently improved the healing response by triggering granulation tissue maturation and further providing a suitable matrix for migrating keratinocytes during wound re‐epithelialisation. The present preclinical wound healing model was able to shed light on the biological processes responsible for the improvement achieved, and these findings can be extended for designing new therapeutic approaches with clinical relevance.
Wisconsin Card Sorting Test: Factor structure and relationship to productivity and supervision needs following severe traumatic brain injury

Primary objective: The Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) has been demonstrated to have a relatively stable factor structure in traumatic brain injury (TBI) samples. What is less clear is whether the scores derived from WCST factors are related to functional outcomes. The purpose of the current study was to replicate the WCST factor structure in a sample with severe TBI, and to evaluate the relationship between the factor scores and outcome. Research design: Retrospective correlational study. Methods and procedures: Participants (n = 143) who had suffered severe TBI were administered a battery of neuropsychological tests including the WCST within one month of admission to a brain injury rehabilitation program. In addition, participants were administered supervision (Supervision Rating Scale; SRS) and productivity measures (Community Integration Questionnaire- Productivity subscale; CIQ-P) at admission and following discharge. Experimental intervention: None. Main outcomes and results: For individuals who were more than one year post injury, more failure to maintain set errors were associated with better occupational outcomes, while more nonperseverative errors were associated with increased supervision needs. Conclusions: The WCST factor scales are related to functional outcomes in severe TBI. Specifically, the inability to establish a series of correct responses is associated with poorer outcome.
Outcomes After Orthotopic Liver Transplantation in 15 HIV-Infected Patients

Background. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection has been associated with poor outcomes after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has led to an increasing number of successful OLTs. The aim of this study was to examine survival and cause-specific mortality in HIV-infected patients after OLT at our institution. Methods. A retrospective analysis of all HIV patients that underwent OLT was compared to all non-HIV patients undergoing OLT during the same period. Cumulative patient and cause-specific survival were calculated using Kaplan-Meier methods; the log-rank test was used to compare the two cohorts. Fifteen HIV-infected patients and 857 non-HIV patients underwent OLT between June 1, 1999 and May 1, 2006. Results. The actuarial 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rates posttransplant (±standard error) were 73.3% (±11.4%) for the HIV group (unchanged from 1 to 3 years) versus 86.9% (±1.2%), 82.0% (±1.4%), and 79.4% (±1.5%) for the non-HIV group. Cumulative survival among HIV-infected recipients was not different from the non-HIV population (P=0.20). A difference was observed between the two groups in mortality rates due to infectious causes: the percentage of HIV patients dying from infection was 26.7% (4 of 15) vs. 8.2% (70 of 857) in the non-HIV group (P=0.006). Conclusions. PostOLT survival was comparable in HIV and non-HIV recipients; however, HIV patients had significantly higher mortality from infectious complications. This difference occurred despite adequate control of HIV postOLT. These findings suggest that OLT can be safely performed for HIV-infected patients; however, these patients are at higher risk of mortality from infectious complications.
Characterisation and pathogenicity of Rhizoctonia isolates associated with black root rot of strawberries in the Western Cape Province, South Africa

Black root rot is an important disease of strawberry caused by a complex of fungi including species of Rhizoctonia. In this study, the Rhizoctonia species and anastomosis groups isolated from diseased strawberries in the Western Cape Province of South Africa were determined and their pathogenicity and relative virulence assessed. Both binucleate and multinucleate types were recovered from diseased roots and identified as R. fragariae and R. solani, respectively. Anastomosis grouping of the isolates was carried out on a sub-sample using the conventional method of hyphal fusion, and molecular techniques were employed to confirm results of the former. RFLP analysis of the 28S RNA gene was used to further characterise relationships among the isolates of Rhizoctonia. The molecular results correlated with those obtained from the conventional methods. In the sub-sample tested, all isolates of R. solani were members of Anastomosis Group 6, whereas three AG types were identified among isolates of R. fragariae, viz. AG-A, AG-G and AG-I at a relative occurrence of 69%, 25% and 6%, respectively. Pathogenicity trials were conducted on 8-week-old cv. Tiobelle plants. All Rhizoctonia isolates tested were pathogenic to strawberry, but R. solani (AG 6) was the most virulent causing severe stunting of plants. R. fragariae AG-A and AG-G were not as virulent as R. solani but also caused stunting. R. fragariae AG-I was the least virulent, and did not cause stunting of the plants; however, it incited small, pale, spreading lesions on infected roots. This is the first species confirmation and AG type identification of Rhizoctonia taxa causing root rot of strawberries in South Africa.
No Evidence for Mouse Pancreatic β-Cell Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition In Vitro

We used cre/loxP-based genetic lineage tracing analysis to test a previously proposed hypothesis that in vitro cultured adult pancreatic β-cells undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to generate a highly proliferative, differentiation-competent population of mesenchymal islet “progenitor” cells. Our results in the mouse that are likely to be directly relevant to the human system show that adult mouse β-cells do not undergo EMT in vitro and that the mesenchymal cells that arise in cultures of adult pancreas are not derived from β-cells. We argue that these cells most likely originate from expansion of mesenchymal cells integral to the heterogeneous pancreatic islet preparations. As such, these mesenchymal “progenitors” might not represent the best possible source for generation of physiologically competent β-cells for treatment of diabetes.
Autopsy case of the C12orf65 mutation in a patient with signs of mitochondrial dysfunction

Objective: To describe the autopsy case of a patient with a homozygous 2-base deletion, c171_172delGA (p.N58fs), in the C12orf65 gene. Methods: We described the clinical history, neuroimaging data, neuropathology, and genetic analysis of the patients with C12orf65 mutations. Results: The patient was a Japanese woman with a history of delayed psychomotor development, primary amenorrhea, and gait disturbance in her 20s. She was hospitalized because of respiratory failure at the age of 60. Pectus excavatum, long fingers and toes, and pes cavus were revealed by physical examination. Her IQ score was 44. Neurologic examination revealed ophthalmoplegia, optic atrophy, dysphagia, distal dominant muscle weakness and atrophy, hyperreflexia at patellar tendon reflex, hyporeflexia at Achilles tendon reflex, and extensor plantar reflexes. At age 60, she died of pneumonia. Lactate levels were elevated in the patient's serum and CSF. T2-weighted brain MRI showed symmetrical hyperintense brainstem lesions. At autopsy, axial sections exposed symmetrical cyst formation with brownish lesions in the upper spinal cord, ventral medulla, pons, dorsal midbrain, and medial hypothalamus. Microscopic analysis of these areas demonstrated mild gliosis with rarefaction. Cell bodies in the choroid plexuses were eosinophilic and swollen. Electron microscopic examination revealed that these cells contained numerous abnormal mitochondria. Whole-exome sequencing revealed the 2-base deletion in C12orf65. Conclusions: We report an autopsy case of the C12orf65 mutation, and findings suggest that mitochondrial dysfunction may underlie the unique clinical presentations.
Reference model of Industrie 4.0 service architectures

Abstract This paper provides an overview about the conceptual work performed by the VDI/VDE GMA working group 7.21 towards the specification of a reference model for Industrie 4.0 service architectures. It focuses on the conceptual design of service-oriented architecture (SOA) relying upon the “I40 component” as a core basic concept across the whole value network. Furthermore, the paper discusses the relevance of reference models of the Internet of Things and Services as a foundation.
Is uniport thoracoscopic surgery less painful than multiple port approaches?

A best evidence topic in thoracic surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was 'In patients undergoing Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS), does a uniport (single-port) or multiport technique convey benefit in terms of postoperative pain? ' Altogether, 255 papers were found using the reported search, of which 12 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studies, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these tables are tabulated. All the available evidence is from small, non-randomized studies. Many were retrospective and methodologically weak. Most studied minor thoracic surgical procedures and a few compare the two approaches in major pulmonary resections. One of the studies compared pain at 24 h for uniport [mean Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) >4.4] and three-port VATS (mean VAS 6.2), for different procedures including lung biopsy and surgery for pneumothorax (P = 0.035). Another study compared pain in the first 36-h post-sympathectomy and found mean pain scores of 0.8 in the uniport group and 1.2 in the two-port group (P = 0.025). Six studies exclusively compared the VAS between uniport and three-port VATS for primary spontaneous pneumothorax. Two studies found no significant difference in pain scores and four found a statistically significant reduction in early postoperative pain scores. One study found that pain scores were similar for lung volume reduction surgery. Two studies compared the mean VAS and morphine use between uniportal and multiportal lobectomies; however, there were no statistically significant differences. From the papers identified in our search, we conclude that uniport VATS may have a small clinical effect in reducing postoperative pain, with the majority of papers looking at the first 72 h following surgery. Often the VAS score was only improved in the uniport patients by 1-2 points, and the studies did not find statistically significant results throughout their investigations, especially when looking at follow-up pain scores. Around one-third of the chosen papers did not find any statistically significant results. Further studies are needed before single-port can be recommended as less painful than multiport thoracoscopic surgery.
Latino Gay Men's Drug Functionality

Abstract This study describes the consequences of drug use and abuse across Latino gay men's (LGM) lives. We also explore the role social networks play in LGM's access to drug use, as well as identifying the role of social support in regulating drug intake. Using a thematic content analysis, we analyzed a subsample (n = 16) of the interviews. Results suggest LGM's drug functionality varies according to their involvement in non-drug and drug-present social networks, with functional drug users reporting less convergence of their social networks than their drug-abusing counterparts. Furthermore, participants voiced being able to regulate their drug intake better when social support was available in their networks. These findings suggest the importance of developing preventative and harm reduction programs with strong social networks and social support components.
Traffic Information Acquisition System with Ultrasonic Sensors in Wireless Sensor Networks

Existing systems for traffic information acquisition have high costs and low scalability owing to their characteristics such as large size, wired power supplies, and wired communication. To achieve low costs and high scalability, the use of traffic information acquisition systems based on wireless sensor networks (WSNs) has been suggested. However, WSN-based systems have important issues, such as low computing power, limited battery capacity, and high transmission delay. Existing studies on WSN-based acquisition systems have not considered all three of these problems together. Moreover, most studies have focused on theoretical problems rather than practical ones. Therefore, we propose a new system that considers all three limitations of WSN-based systems. In our experiments, we installed our system on real roads for an accurate evaluation. The results show that our system has a high detection accuracy, low power consumption, and low transmission delay.
Disruption of the ERK/MAPK pathway in neural crest cells as a potential cause of Pierre Robin sequence

Disrupted ERK1/2 signaling is associated with several developmental syndromes in humans. To understand the function of ERK2 (MAPK1) in the postmigratory neural crest populating the craniofacial region, we studied two mouse models: Wnt1-Cre;Erk2fl/fl and Osr2-Cre;Erk2fl/fl. Wnt1-Cre;Erk2fl/fl mice exhibited cleft palate, malformed tongue, micrognathia and mandibular asymmetry. Cleft palate in these mice was associated with delay/failure of palatal shelf elevation caused by tongue malposition and micrognathia. Osr2-Cre;Erk2fl/fl mice, in which the Erk2 deletion is restricted to the palatal mesenchyme, did not display cleft palate, suggesting that palatal clefting in Wnt1-Cre;Erk2fl/fl mice is a secondary defect. Tongues in Wnt1-Cre;Erk2fl/fl mice exhibited microglossia, malposition, disruption of the muscle patterning and compromised tendon development. The tongue phenotype was extensively rescued after culture in isolation, indicating that it might also be a secondary defect. The primary malformations in Wnt1-Cre;Erk2fl/fl mice, namely micrognathia and mandibular asymmetry, are linked to an early osteogenic differentiation defect. Collectively, our study demonstrates that mutation of Erk2 in neural crest derivatives phenocopies the human Pierre Robin sequence and highlights the interconnection of palate, tongue and mandible development. Because the ERK pathway serves as a crucial point of convergence for multiple signaling pathways, our study will facilitate a better understanding of the molecular regulatory mechanisms of craniofacial development. Summary: Abrogating Erk2 function in the developing mouse neural crest reveals a role for this key kinase in craniofacial development, notably in regulating osteogenic differentiation.
Participation of the elderly population in clinical trials: barriers and solutions.

BACKGROUND Despite the fact that cancer disproportionately affects the elderly, most participants of clinical cancer trials are relatively young. This misrepresentation greatly affects the oncology treatment of the elderly population (> 65 years of age). Few studies have attempted to identify the problems related to discrepancy based on age for clinical trial participation. METHODS A literature review was performed to identify barriers and solutions to enrollment of elderly persons for clinical cancer trials. RESULTS Physician-related barriers include perception about treatment tolerance, drug metabolism, a lack of evidence for efficacy, and age bias. Lack of autonomy, concerns about quality of life and toxicities, accessibility to clinical trials, and logistical and financial difficulties are common patient-related barriers. Trial-related barriers include eligibility criteria based on performance status, organ dysfunction, and the presence of comorbidities. Solutions, such as improved communication, and coordinating logistical challenges may help overcome some of these challenges. Studies designed for the geriatric population could modify the perception and behavior of health care professionals and improve patient participation in clinical trials. CONCLUSIONS Implementing some of these solutions and increased research may help overcome shortfalls in elderly enrollment, thus allowing for more effective treatment of older patients.
Development of a Method Using Image Analysis for the Measurement of Cellulose‐Binding Domains Adsorbed onto Cellulose Fibers

The surface concentration of CBD‐FITC conjugates, adsorbed on cellulose fibers, was determined by image analysis. The program consists of two scripts, the first dedicated to the elaboration of the calibration curve. The emission of fluorescent light, detected by image analysis, is correlated with the concentration of CBD solutions. This calibration is then used (second script) to determine the concentration of CBDs adsorbed on cellulosic fibers. This method allows the direct estimation of the surface concentration of adsorbed CBDs, which usually is not accurately calculated from depletion studies, since the surface area is hardly known. By observing different spots in the surface of the fibers, site‐specific information is obtained. It was verified that the physically heterogeneous fibers exhibit different amounts of adsorbed CBDs.
Policy-based network management

Depending on the context, a policy can be a paper document, a table for selecting options, a sequence of logical assertions to automate operational decisions, or a tool to articulate business goals and service priorities and facilitate decisions in enforcing business rules and service priorities. In this paper, we will analyze these aspects of policies and show how they relate to each other. We will also analyze industry practices, examine applicable standards, and explore some advantages that a policy-based system can offer in such areas as network management, quality of service (QoS), and network security.
Removal of High Phenol Concentrations with Adapted Activated Sludge in Suspended Form and Entrapped in Calcium Alginate/Cross‐Linked Poly(N‐vinyl pyrrolidone) Hydrogels

The present work evaluates the aerobic removal of 0.25–2 g/L of phenol by adapted activated sludge in batch and continuous reactors, in suspended form and trapped in polymeric hydrogel beads of calcium alginate(1%) and cross‐linked poly(N‐vinyl pyrrolidone), x‐PVP (4%). The mechanical and chemical resistance of the entrapping hydrogel was also evaluated in three different media: (I) rich in phosphate and ammonium ions; (II) using alternate P and N sources, and (III) without nutrients. The adapted consortium removed phenol concentrations up to 2 g/L more efficiently in the immobilized systems. A decrease in phenol removal rate was observed as the food/microorganisms (F/M) ratio increased. A zero‐order kinetics was observed with phenol concentrations > 1 g/L and a first‐order kinetics at concentrations < 1 g/L. The best response (100% removal) was in the continuous reactors using type II medium, with a hydraulic residence time (HRT) of 12.5 h, an influent pH = 5, and an F/M ratio below 0.25. The immobilizing matrix deteriorated after 170 h of use in continuous reactors, especially with media I and II, probably due to the attrition forces, to chemical weakness of the material, and to the pressure of the bacterial growth inside the bead.
An ABC Transporter and a TonB Ortholog Contribute to Helicobacter mustelae Nickel and Cobalt Acquisition

ABSTRACT The genomes of Helicobacter species colonizing the mammalian gastric mucosa (like Helicobacter pylori) contain a large number of genes annotated as iron acquisition genes but only few nickel acquisition genes, which contrasts with the central position of nickel in the urease-mediated acid resistance of these gastric pathogens. In this study we have investigated the predicted iron and nickel acquisition systems of the ferret pathogen Helicobacter mustelae. The expression of the outer membrane protein-encoding frpB2 gene was iron and Fur repressed, whereas the expression of the ABC transporter genes fecD and ceuE was iron and Fur independent. The inactivation of the two tonB genes showed that TonB1 is required for heme utilization, whereas the absence of TonB2 only marginally affected iron-dependent growth but led to reduced cellular nickel content and urease activity. The inactivation of the fecD and ceuE ABC transporter genes did not affect iron levels but resulted in significantly reduced urease activity and cellular nickel content. Surprisingly, the inactivation of the nixA nickel transporter gene affected cellular nickel content and urease activity only when combined with the inactivation of other nickel acquisition genes, like fecD or ceuE. The FecDE ABC transporter is not specific for nickel, since an fecD mutant also showed reduced cellular cobalt levels and increased cobalt resistance. We conclude that the H. mustelae fecDE and ceuE genes encode an ABC transporter involved in nickel and cobalt acquisition, which works independently of the nickel transporter NixA, while TonB2 is required primarily for nickel acquisition, with TonB1 being required for heme utilization.
Power injection system for photovoltaic plants based on a multiconverter topology with DC-link capacitor voltage balancing

This paper presents the simulation of a new topology for the power injection system of a single-phase grid connected photovoltaic generation system that is based on the parallel association of two voltage source inverters: one is a 3 level neutral point clamped operated using a low switching frequency strategy and the other is a 2 level inverter which operates with a pulse width modulation based strategy. The aim of this topology is that multilevel inverter injects the power and the other inverter controls the current quality. The DC-link capacitor voltage balancing is solved by using the redundant states of the multilevel inverter. The proposal optimizes the system design, allowing high power injection, permitting reduction of system losses and an increase of the energy injected into the grid.