Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Interventions for the eradication of meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in people with cystic fibrosis.

BACKGROUND Cystic fibrosis is an inherited recessive disorder of chloride transport that is characterised by recurrent and persistent pulmonary infections from resistant organisms that result in lung function deterioration and early mortality in sufferers.Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has emerged as, not only an important infection in long-term hospitalised patients, but also as a potentially harmful pathogen in cystic fibrosis, and has been increasing steadily in prevalence internationally. Chronic pulmonary infection with MRSA is thought to confer cystic fibrosis patients with a worse overall clinical outcome and, in particular, result in an increased rate of decline in lung function. Clear guidance for the eradication of MRSA in cystic fibrosis, supported by robust evidence from good quality trials, is urgently needed. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness of treatment regimens designed to eradicate MRSA and to determine whether the eradication of MRSA confers better clinical and microbiological outcomes for people with cystic fibrosis. SEARCH METHODS Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials were identified by searching the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group's Cystic Fibrosis Trials Register, PUBMED, MEDLINE, Embase, handsearching article reference lists and through contact with local and international experts in the field.Date of the last search of the Group's Cystic Fibrosis Trials Register: 04 September 2014. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing any combinations of topical, inhaled, oral or intravenous antimicrobials with the primary aim of eradicating MRSA compared with placebo, standard treatment or no treatment. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS The authors independently assessed all search results for eligibility. No eligible trials were identified for inclusion. MAIN RESULTS No current published eligible trials were identified, although three ongoing clinical trials are likely to be eligible for inclusion in future updates of this review. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We did not identify any randomised trials which would allow us to make any evidence-based recommendations. Although the results of several non-randomised studies would suggest that, once isolated, the eradication of MRSA is possible; whether this has a significant impact on clinical outcome is still unclear. Further research is required to guide clinical decision making in the management of MRSA infection in cystic fibrosis.
Prevalence of overweight/obesity among Portuguese preschoolers

Objectives: The present study aimed to report the prevalence of overweight/obesity in a sample of Portuguese preschoolers. Methods: A total of 625 children (males: 53.6%) aged 3 to 6 years-old were included in the study. The International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) cut-offs were used to define overweight and obesity. Results: The overall prevalence of overweight/obesity was 33.1%. The prevalence of overweight/obesity was significantly (p <0.05 ) higher in girls (37.2%) than boys (29.6%). Conclusions: Despite the early ages under study, the values found in our study are alarming and call for appropriate interventions.
Prevalence of Blood parasites in stray and pet Dogs in Hyderabad Area : Comparative sensitivity of different Diagnostic techniqes for the detection of microfilaria

Investigation on the prevalence of blood-parasites in stray and pet dogs in Hyderabad area of Sindh province was carried out during the summer season. A total of 300 blood samples (200 from stray and 100 from pet dogs) were collected and tested for blood parasites. Data was analyzed to determine prevalence of various species of blood parasites to establish the correlation of these infections with age, sex and month. A comparison was also made to evaluate the sensitivity of these techniques for the detection of microfilarae. An overall prevalence of blood-parasites was recorded as 11.66 %; Dirofilaria immitis, Dipetalonema reconditum and Babesia canis being 5.33, 1.33 and 5.00 %, respectively. The prevalence in stray and pet dogs was recorded as 13 and 9 % respectively. The highest percentage of infection was recorded in the month of July (13.3 %). The adult dogs were more commonly affected (14.70%) than pups (7.69%). The percentage of infection was greater in females (18.6%) than males (9.33%). Among the various techniques used, modified Knott’s technique was found to be the most sensitive technique for the detection of microfilariae.
Applications of Upper Limb Biomechanical Models in Spinal Cord Injury Patients

Impaired upper limb function is one of the most common sequelae in central nervous system. In spinal cord injury (SCI) patients, upper limbs are affected in more than 50% of cases (Wyndaele and Wyndaele 2006). Upper limb strength is impaired to some extent in people who have suffered cervical SCI making it difficult for them to perform many activities of daily living (ADL) essential for their autonomy such as wheelchair manual propulsion, eating, drinking, and personal hygiene (Parker et al. 1986; Nakayama et al. 1994). In contrast with lower limbs, upper limbs have extensive functionally due to the mobility of numerous joints that can execute fine movements thanks to complex neuromuscular control. Lower limbs movements have been broadly analyzed in biomechanical studies specially regarding gait analysis. Gait analysis has evolved over the last decades as an important technique to assist in the clinical assessment of patients with mobility dysfunction. These techniques are useful for evaluation, treatment, and surgical planning; in addition, sequential assessments help to provide a functional outcome evaluation. Motion analysis offers an objective method for quantifying movement and is considered a gold standard for evaluating lower limb function during gait in different types of patients. Therapeutic and surgical interventions to improve upper limb function primarily focus on muscle balance and joint position to maximize hand function; however, the methods for characterizing specific upper limb motion deficits and measuring the functional outcome are varied and mostly subjective. Upper limb function has traditionally been evaluated by different scales that only assess the quality of upper limb movement based on observational analysis, e.g. Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Frenchay Arm Test, Motor Assessment Scale, Action Research Arm Test, Box and Block Test, Nine Hole Peg Test (Wade 1992; Finch 2002). These outcome measures are reliable and sensitive for measuring gross changes in functional performance but have less sensitivity to smaller specific changes. These tools provide information concerning the quality of movement and a quantifiable score of performance,
Visibility and meaning in topic models and 18th-century subject indexes

This article addresses the ‘meaning problem’ of unsupervised topic modeling algorithms using a tool called the Networked Corpus, which offers a way to visualize topic models alongside the texts themselves. We argue that the relationship between quantitative methods and qualitative interpretation can be reframed by investigating the long history of machine learning procedures and their historical antecedents. The new method of visualization presented by the Networked Corpus enables users to compare the results of topic models with earlier methods of topical representation such as the 18th-century subject index. Although the article provides a brief description of the tool, the primary focus is to describe an argument for this kind of comparative analysis between topic models and older genres that perform similar tasks. Such comparative analysis provides a new method for developing conceptual histories of the categories of meaning on which the topic model and the index depend. These devices are linked by a shared attempt to represent what a text is ‘about’, but the concept of ‘aboutness’ has evolved over time. The Networked Corpus enables researchers to discover congruities and contradictions in how topic models and indexes represent texts in order to examine what kinds of information each historically situated device prioritizes.
The use of Gabor features for semi-automatically generated polyon-based ground truth of historical document images

Historical documents usually have a complex layout, making them one of the most challenging types of documents for automatic image analysis. In the pipe-line of automatic document image analysis (DIA), layout analysis is an important prerequisite for further steps including optical character recognition, script analysis, and image recognition. It aims at splitting a document image into regions of interest such as text lines, background, and decorations. To train a layout analysis system, an essential prerequisite is a set of pages with corresponding ground truth (GT), i.e. existing labels (e.g. text line and decoration) annotated by human experts. Although there exist many methods and tools in GT generation, most of them are not suitable on our specific data sets. In this article, we propose to use Gabor features to generate GT, and based on Gabor features, we developed a web-based interface called D IVA D IA WI. D IVA D IA WI applies automatic functions using Gabor features to generate GT of text lines. For other region types such as background and decorations, users can manually draw their GT with user-friendly operations. The evaluation shows that (1) D IVA D IA WI has two advantages when bringing it into context with state-of-the-art tools, (2) the automatic functions of D IVA D IA WI greatly accelerate the GT generation, and (3) D IVA D IA WI obtains a high score in a system usability test.
Mycophenolate mofetil for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system and a leading cause of disability in young and middle-aged adults. Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is an immunosuppressive agent that has been used for the prevention of allograft rejection after renal, cardiac, or liver transplant and in patients with autoimmune diseases such as active relapsing-remitting (RRMS) and progressive MS. OBJECTIVES To assess the efficacy and safety of MMF for preventing disease activity in patients with RRMS. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Multiple Sclerosis and Rare Diseases of the Central Nervous System Group Specialised Register (January 14, 2013). We searched three Chinese databases (January 2013) and checked reference lists of identified trials. We contacted authors and pharmaceutical companies to ask for additional information. We applied no language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomized controlled trials with a follow-up of at least 12 months that compared MMF as monotherapy or in combination with other treatments versus placebo, another drug, or the same cointervention as the treated group. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently selected the trials for inclusion, assessed trial quality, and extracted data. MAIN RESULTS One included study involving 26 participants with new-onset RRMS investigated the efficacy and safety of MMF (13 participants) versus placebo in interferon β-1a-treated participants. It was assessed to be at high risk of bias, and had a small numbers of participants receiving treatment with short-term duration. There was inadequate information provided by the study to determine the effect of MMF in reducing relapses, preventing disability progression, or developing new T2- or new gadolinium (Gd)-enhanced lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after a 12-month follow-up period. No data were available at 24 months. No serious adverse effects were reported. All participants in the MMF-treated group suffered from gastrointestinal upset, but none of them discontinued therapy as a result. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The evidence we found from one small study was insufficient to determine the effects of MMF as an add-on therapy for interferon β-1a in new-onset RRMS participants.
Endovascular repair versus open repair for inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysms.

BACKGROUND Inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysm (IAAA) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition characterised by marked thickening of the aortic wall, peri-aneurysmal and retroperitoneal fibrosis, and dense adhesions of adjacent abdominal organs. The pathogenesis of IAAA remains an enigma. The main aim of invasive or surgical therapy of AAAs is prevention or correction of aortic rupture. Prevention or treatment of AAA rupture by open or endovascular repair is proven by numerous studies published in the literature. Treatment of IAAA poses a different challenge to surgeons compared with traditional atherosclerotic AAA because of the potential for iatrogenic injury in open repair or, alternatively, potential increased inflammatory response to endoprosthesis implantation. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of elective endovascular versus open repair for inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysms. SEARCH METHODS The Cochrane Peripheral Vascular Diseases Group Trials Search Co-ordinator (TSC) searched the Specialised Register (April 2015) and the Cochrane Register of Studies (CRS) (2015, Issue 3). The TSC searched trial databases for details of ongoing and unpublished studies. SELECTION CRITERIA We sought all published and unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-RCTs and controlled clinical trials comparing results of elective endovascular or open repair of IAAAs without language restriction. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Both review authors independently assessed studies identified for potential inclusion in the review. We planned to conduct data collection and analysis in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Review of Interventions. MAIN RESULTS We identified no studies that met the inclusion criteria. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found no published RCTs, quasi RCTs or controlled clinical trials comparing open repair and elective endovascular repair for IAAA, assessing immediate (30-day), intermediate (up to one-year follow-up) and long-term (more than one-year follow-up) mortality or complications rates. High-quality studies evaluating the best treatment for inflammatory abdominal aneurysm repair are required.
Interventions for the reduction of prescribed opioid use in chronic non-cancer pain.

BACKGROUND Patients with chronic non-cancer pain who are prescribed and are taking opioids can have a history of long term high dose opioid use without effective pain relief. In those without good pain relief, reduction of prescribed opioid dose may be the desired and shared goal of both patient and clinician. Simple unsupervised reduction of opioid use is clinically challenging, and very difficult to achieve and maintain. OBJECTIVES To investigate the effectiveness of different methods designed to achieve reduction or cessation of prescribed opioid use for the management of chronic non-cancer pain. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, and EMBASE from inception to 8th April 2013, as well as bibliographies. SELECTION CRITERIA Included studies had to be randomised controlled trials comparing opioid users receiving an intervention with a control group receiving treatment as usual, active control, or placebo. The aim of the study had to include a treatment goal of dose reduction or cessation of opioid medication. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We sought data relating to prescribed opioid use, adverse events of opioid reduction, pain, and psychological and physical function. MAIN RESULTS Two studies provided information on 86 participants. One compared electroacupuncture with sham acupuncture for 20 minutes twice a week for six weeks; there was no difference between treatments. The other followed 11 weeks of cognitive behavioural therapy with either therapeutic interactive voice response through a computer for four months or usual treatment; the active group had a significant reduction in opioid use, while the usual care group had a significant increase. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Both included studies were at significant risk of bias because of their small size, together with other important issues, including blinding. Because of this risk and the paucity of relevant studies, no conclusions can be drawn regarding the effectiveness of interventions for opioid withdrawal in chronic non-cancer pain.
Functional analysis of 30K proteins during silk gland degeneration by a caspase‐dependent pathway in Bombyx

The 30K proteins are involved with important functions in the growth and development of Bombyx mori. In this study, the synthesis and regulation of 30K proteins were examined during the degeneration of Bombyx silk glands. On day 3 of the fifth instar, the protein level of 30Kc19 was low, whereas the silk proteins were rapidly synthesized. However, synthesis and accumulation of the 30Kc19 protein significantly increased at the prepupal stage and on day 1 of the pupal stage. At this stage, the silk gland cells were filled with 30Kc19 and genomic DNA. Moreover, the transcript levels of the 30K‐encoding genes, including 30Kc6, 30Kc12, 30Kc19 and 30Kc23 were up‐regulated during the degeneration of the Bombyx silk glands. During the time that the levels of the 30Kc19 protein were significantly up‐regulated, it is notable that the transcript levels of the BmAtg8, BmAtg6 and BmDronc genes dramatically increased to regulate the programmed cell death of this gland. On day 1 of the pupal stage, intense fragmentation of genomic DNA occurred in the silk gland cells, and the putative active form of caspase was detected in the cytoplasm, showing the complete degradation of the silk glands in one day. In conclusion, the 30K proteins are synthesized in high concentrations, while proteolysis mediates silk gland degeneration in Bombyx by a caspase‐dependent pathway. We propose that the 30K proteins may be nutrients and energy vectors to be absorbed by the developing tissues of pupae or moths.
Identification and biochemical characterization of Laodelphax striatellus neutral ceramidase

Ceramidases are a group of enzymes that catalyse hydrolysis of ceramides to generate fatty acid and sphingosine. In this study, we report the cloning and characterization of the rice small brown planthopper Laodelphax striatellus neutral ceramidase (nCDase), LsnCer. LsnCer was identified by sequencing the transcriptome of L. striatellus and is a protein of 717 amino acids with a predicted molecular weight of 79.3 kDa. Similarly to other known nCDases, the optimum pH for LsnCer is 8.0 and the optimum temperature is 37 °C for its in vitro activity. LsnCer activity is inhibited by Zn2+ significantly and Fe2+ slightly. LsnCer has broad substrate specificity with a preference for ceramides with a medium acyl‐chain or a monounsaturated long acyl‐chain. Infection with rice strip virus (RSV) or treatment with insecticides significantly increased LsnCer mRNA expression and its enzymatic activity in L. striatellus. These results suggest that LsnCer is a bona fide nCDase that may have a role in adaption of L. striatellus to environmental stresses.
Determinants of Patient Activation in Hospitalized Multimorbid Patients

Background and Purpose-The purpose of this study was to document the psychometric properties of the Patient Activation Measure (PAM) in hospitalized multimorbid patients. Methods-Data from 313 patients were used for psychometric testing. Results-Estimated reliability of the PAM was.88; the content validity index was . 91. Convergent and divergent validity with measures of physical functioning, depression, quality of care, severity of illness and number of multimorbid conditions were confirmed. Confirmatory factor analysis did not support a good fit of the one-factor model. Conclusion-The PAM is a reliable and valid instrument to assess patient activation in hospitalized multimorbid patients. Further study is needed to determine what factors predict activation and how activation can assist in tailoring discharge planning.
Maintaining quality services in Thai accredited hospitals in a climate of economic uncertainty

In 1997, Thailand suffered a severe economic downturn. The government was obliged to control health spending whilst also attempting to maintain the quality of hospital services. In the same year, the Thailand Hospital Accreditation Program (HA-Thai) was established. This built on earlier accreditation schemes, and an initial group of thirty-five public and private hospitals joined the program. This study explores the strategies the managers of these 35 hospitals used to maintain the quality of their services since the economic downturn. It also investigated the managers’ perception and understanding of the Hospital Accreditation Program. Little is currently known about the use of quality management within Thai hospitals. The aim of this study was to provide evidence of how hospital quality management was being implemented and how its practices were affected by the economic crisis. The study used a mixed method approach. This was felt to be appropriate given the little that was known about quality management in Thai hospitals. Baseline data were collected by a survey questionnaire. This collected data on which components of Total Quality Management (TQM) were used by the thirty-five hospitals. The hospitals were also requested to provide their strategic plans (or other planning documentation) and their financial reports or annual budgets between 1996-1999. Finally, interviews were conducted with thirty-two top and middle managers from four public hospitals in different provinces and of different size. Public hospitals were selected because they had
Establishment of transgenic silkworms expressing GAL4 specifically in the haemocyte oenocytoid cells

Insect haemocytes play significant roles in innate immunity. The silkworm, a lepidopteran species, is often selected as the model for studies into the functions of haemocytes in immunity; however, our understanding of the role of haemocytes remains limited because the lack of haemocyte promoters for transgene expression makes genetic manipulations difficult. In the present study, we aimed to establish transgenic silkworm strains expressing GAL4 in their haemocytes. First, we identified three genes with strong expression in haemocytes, namely, lp44, Haemocyte Protease 1 (HP1) and hemocytin. Transgenic silkworms expressing GAL4 under the control of the putative promoters of these genes were then established and expression was examined. Although GAL4 expression was not detected in haemocytes of HP1‐GAL4 or hemocytin‐GAL4 strains, lp44‐GAL4 exhibited a high level of GAL4 expression, particularly in oenocytoids. GAL4 expression was also detected in the midgut but in no other tissues, indicating that GAL4 expression in this strain is mostly oenocytoid‐specific. Thus, we have identified a promoter that enables oenocytoid expression of genes of interest. Additionally, the lp44‐GAL4 strain could also be used for other types of research, such as the functional analysis of genes in oenocytoids, which would facilitate advances in our understanding of insect immunity.