Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Granulocyte concentrates: how can we assess their quality?

Summary. The use of granulocyte transfusions to treat and prevent life‐threatening infection in patients lacking neutrophil numbers or function may become increasingly important in aiding advances in the treatment of haematological malignancies. A critical factor in determining the outcome of granulocyte transfusion is the number of cells transfused, and collection of sufficiently high concentration of cells from donors remains challenging. A number of tests of granulocyte function can be performed in vitro to assess the quality of granulocyte concentrates, which may be useful in helping to optimize granulocyte collection, processing and storage methods. Studies that have examined neutrophil function in granulocyte concentrates to date have tended to focus on the assessment of viability, chemotaxis, phagocytosis and oxidative killing. How useful in vitro tests of neutrophil function are in predicting neutrophil function following granulocyte transfusion remains to be established in conjunction with well‐designed clinical trials.
A unified framework for the joint optimal allocation of subchannel and power in multi-hop relay network

This paper provides a unified framework for the joint optimal subchannel and resource allocation in multi-hop relay network. Specifically, we use a simple rearrangement inequality and show that seemingly difficult problems can be efficiently solved. This includes several existing solution methods as special cases. The proposed framework can be applied to the MIMO relaying and multi-hop OFDM.
Virtual Reality: A Tool for Assembly?

This paper reports on an investigation into the proposed usability of virtual reality for a manufacturing application such as the assembly of a number of component parts into a final product. Before the assembly task itself is considered, the investigation explores the use of VR for the training of human assembly operators and compares the findings to conventionally adopted techniques for parts assembly. The investigation highlighted several limitations of using VR technology. Most significant was the lack of haptic feedback provided by current input devices for virtual environments. To address this, an instrumented object (IO) was employed that enabled the user to pick up and manipulate the IO as the representation of a component from a product to be assembled. The reported findings indicate that object manipulation times are superior when IOs are employed as the interaction device, and that IO devices could therefore be adopted in VEs to provide haptic feedback for diverse applications and, in particular, for assembly task planning.
Problems in the determination of FDNB-available lysine.

Methods that use FDNB1 for the determination of available lysine need a correction for loss. The correction procedure has been studied, especially for vegetable materials. DNP-L† was adsorbed by residues. To minimise loss of DNP-L, hydrolysates were filtered hot and residues washed thoroughly. Hydrolysis of dinitrophenylated protein was incomplete after 16 h reflux in 5.8 M-HCl, the yield of DNP-L being improved by a second hydrolysis of residues. The effect of obtaining higher values after hydrolysis in a large volume of add (dilute hydrolysis) has been largely eliminated. Although DNP-L added to dinitrophenylated materials (Carpenter's procedure)1 was partly destroyed during acid digestion, DNP-L in protein (indigenous DNP-L) was diminished less. DNP-protein was therefore tried as recovery agent instead of DNP-L. A modified Carpenter method is described in the Appendix. The estimated coefficient of variation was 3.8%. Various materials were assayed by this method and by TLMI† (the Silcock methody)2. The two values were closer for animal than for vegetable materials, and for undamaged than for heat, damaged materials. The loss of indigenous DNP-L during an assay (the criterion being comparison with TLMI) was about half that predicted from the recovery of added DNP-L, but about equal to that predicted from recovery from DNP-protein. Less DNP-L was lost during acid digestion in presence of animal than of vegetable protein. The use of the new, smaller, correction factor is discussed.
Lattice Reduction Aided MIMO Detectors with Quantization Error Correction

Lattice reduction aided detection schemes have been proposed to enhance the performance of multiple-input multiple- output (MIMO) systems. We combine linear detections such as zero-forcing (ZF) and minimum mean square error (MMSE) with lattice reduction to improve the performance with little complexity increase. Lattice reduction aided detection requires a quantization to detect the signals. The errors in this quantization step degrade the bit error rate. In this paper, we propose the quantization error correction algorithm to enhance the performance and perform simulations to verify our results.
Detectability of Red-Edge-shifted Vegetation on Terrestrial Planets Orbiting M Stars

We have explored the detectability of exovegetation on the surface of a terrestrial planet orbiting an M star. The exovegetation is responsible for producing a pigment-derived surface signature that is redshifted with respect to the Earth vegetation's red edge. The redshift was estimated using a model of leaf optical property spectra (Jacquemoud & Baret) combined with a 3 photon photosynthetic scheme calculated by Wolstencroft & Raven for a possible exovegetation growing on an M star planet. To study the detectability of this surface biosignature on an M star terrestrial planet, we have used the three-dimensional model developed by Tinetti et al. for the case of the Earth. This model can generate disk-averaged spectra and broadband integrated fluxes, which will be useful for future terrestrial planet exploration missions, such as the NASA Terrestrial Planet Finder Coronagraph. Input to this model were the atmospheric profiles and cloud distributions predicted by Joshi and coworkers for a synchronous planet orbiting an M dwarf and the distinctive surface reflectance of the exovegetation. While on Earth this pigment-derived surface feature would be almost completely masked by water absorption, even in a cloud-free atmosphere, we found that the strength of the edge feature on our simulated M star terrestrial planet can exceed that on Earth, given the right conditions. Obviously, the detectability of such biosignatures would be highly dependent on the extent of vegetation surface area, cloud cover, and viewing angle.
Research on more features extraction and quick recognition algorithm of frontal face based on robustness

The identification of face recognition refers to the computer technology of using of analysis and comparison face visual feature information for the identification. It can detect the human target, extract features and identify persons. This paper presents a method of feature extraction and quick recognition for frontal face, which has a good robustness for some unexpected faces. For frontal face, the paper selects face contour, ears and triangle area between two eyes and nose as the features to be extracted. Extracting these features by different algorithms and analyzing the importance of them. According to the importance, different weights are put to these features. Finally, fuse these features for face recognition, in order to improving the recognition and ensuring the quick recognition.
Estimating HIV incidence in the United States from HIV/AIDS surveillance data and biomarker HIV test results

The development of an human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) test that detects recent infection has enabled the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to estimate annual HIV incidence (number of new infections per year, not per person at risk) in the United States from data on new HIV and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) diagnoses reported to HIV/AIDS surveillance. We developed statistical procedures to estimate the probability that an infected person will be detected as recently infected, accounting for individuals choosing whether and how frequently to seek HIV testing, variation of testing frequency, the reporting of test results only for infected persons, and infected persons who never had an HIV‐negative test. The incidence estimate is the number of persons detected as recently infected divided by the estimated probability of detection. We used simulation to show that, under the assumptions we make, our procedures have acceptable bias and correct confidence interval coverage. Because data on the biomarker for recent infection or on testing history were missing for many persons, we used multiple imputation to apply our models to surveillance data. CDC has used these procedures to estimate HIV incidence in the United States. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The human homolog of ribosomal protein S18.

In order to identify new genes preferentially expressed in cytotrophoblasts of first trimester placenta, which display phenotypical characteristics similar to tumor cells, we have made a subtracted cDNA library. The Library represents early placental, cytotrophoblastic, endoplasmic reticular membrane-bound RNA in the 0.5 —2 kb size range, from which common sequences with terminal placenta and EL-2 activated T lymphocytes have been removed. Recombinant cDNA were analyzed by differential screening. Clones displaying a preferential expression in early placenta after Southern blot analysis were selected and sequenced. We have thus focused our study on five clones, the level of expression of which was analyzed by Northern blot in various tissues. One of these, designated B9, was expressed sparsely in terminal placenta and with varying levels in most other tissues. Detailed sequence analysis was performed, revealing 549 bp containing a polyadenylation signal and an open reading frame of 152 amino acids. This ORF starts with an ATG codon, which occurs in the context CAGCCATGT, differing in 3 positions from the optimal sequence CCACCATGC (1). TAA is used as stop codon. Database search using the FASTA program (2), showed 90.7% nucleic acid and 100% amino acid homology with the mouse KE3 sequence as shown below. The corresponding rat amino acid sequence as predicted from cDNA was also described to be 100% identical (3). The predicted KE3 gene product, which remains putative until in vivo proof is obtained, has been described as the ribosomal protein S18 based on homology with bacterial ribosomal protein S13 and the electrophoretic properties of the in vitro translation product (4). The sequence also shows a structural homology with fos-related molecules based on the heptad repeat of leucine residues (leucine zipper) preceded by a basic region shown below as asterisks (5). PROSITE (A.Bairoch) analysis reveals six putative phosphorylation sites. The KE3 gene belongs to a group of six genes (KE1-5 and SET), located in the H-2K region of the murine MHC (6). A homolog of this region has also been localized in the human major histocompatibility complex (7). 3. Chan,Y. -L. , Paz.V. , Wool.I. G. (1991) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 178, 1212-1218. 4. MacMurray.A. J. and Shin,H. -S. (1991) Mammalian Genome 2, 87-95. 5. Kerppola.T. K. and Curran.T. (1991) Curr. Op. Struct. Biol 1, 71-79. 6. Abe.K. , WeU. -F. , Wei.F. -S. , Uehara.H. , Aizt.K. and Bennett.D. (1988) EMBOJ. 7, 3441-3449. 7. Janatipour.M. , Naunxrv.Y. , Ando.K. , Sugimura.K. , Okamoto.N. , TsujUC. , Abe,K. and Inoko.H. (1992) Immunogenetics 35, 272-278.
Identification of β‐Adrenergic Receptor Binding Sites in Rat Brain Micro vessels, Using [125I]Iodohydroxybenzylpindolol

Abstract: Brain microvessels were prepared from rat cerebral cortex. The purity was confirmed by phase‐contrast microscopy and by the measurement of an enzymatic marker, γ‐glutamyltranspeptidase. The microvessel preparation was subjected to radioreceptor assay using a 125I‐labelled β‐adrenergic antagonist, hydroxybenzylpindolol (IHYP). The binding was linear with protein concentration up to at least 80 μg per tube. It was saturated at 200 PM IHYP concentration. The KD, value calculated by Scatchard analysis was 69.4 ± 9.9 PM. The maximum binding (Bmax) was 107 ± 4 fmol/mg protein. The binding reached equilibrium within 30 min and was dissociated by addition of (−)‐propranolol. The inhibitory effects of isomers of propranolol and iso‐proterenol on this binding showed that (−)‐isomers were two orders of magnitude more potent than the (+)‐isomers. Other neurotransmitters did not affect IHYP binding. The characteristics of the binding, saturability, high affinity, reversibility and stereospecificity, suggest that IHYP is bound to β‐adrenergic receptor sites located on brain microvessels.
Prevalence of human papillomavirus among women with normal cervical cytology in Kuwait

This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence and type specific distribution of human papillomavirus (HPV) in women with normal cervical cytology in Kuwait. The study is the first of its type in Kuwait and one of few in the Middle East. The age specific distribution of HPV types was determined in 3,011 ThinPrep samples taken from women seeking routine gynaecological care. ThinPrep samples were screened for HPV DNA by real‐time PCR. The type specific distribution of the viruses was determined by PCR‐based sequencing. The results showed that HPV DNA was detected in 71 women (2.4%), and 21 different HPV genotypes were detected, comprising eight high‐risk (HR) (16, 31, 33, 53, 56, 58, 66, and 73), seven low‐risk (LR) (6, 11, 54, 61, 70, 81, and 90), four intermediate‐risk (IR) (67, 82, 83, and 84) and HPV 102 and HPV 106. LR HPV types were found in 71.8% of infected samples, HR types in 32.3%, and IR types in 7%. With regard to age, 40.8% of all HPVs were found in women 30–39 years of age, 29.6% in women 40–49 years of age, 19.7% in women over 50 years and 9.9% in women less than 34 years old. The study shows that the prevalence of HPV infection in Kuwait is among the lowest in the world and suggests that HPV vaccine could prevent the development of HPV associated cervical cancer in 1.39% of young females living in Kuwait. However, more extensive population‐based studies should be undertaken before implementing HPV vaccination. J. Med. Virol. 83:453–460, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Application of the Stomacher for rapid homogenization of sputum and the serial streak dilution method for quantitative culture.

Techniques for sputum homogenization and quan- titative cultural methods have enabled clinical microbiologists to make a more objective assessment of the bacterial flora found in lower respiratory tract infection. This paper describes the application of the Colworth Stomacher for rapid and effective homogenization of sputum and the use of a cali- brated loop for quantitative culture of the homogenate. The Stomacher (A. J. Seward, London SEI 9U6) has been designed for the blending of powders, liquids, samples for microbiological analysis, emul-sification, and extraction. A suitable plastic bag containing the sample is placed in the stomaching area and sealed near the top by the closed Stomacher door. Two paddles alternately squeeze the bag and its contents against the inner aspect of the door (Sharpe and Jackson, 1972).
Programming in an Integrated Functional and Logic Language

Escher is a general-purpose, declarative programming language that integrates the best features of both functional and logic programming languages. It has types and modules, higher-order and meta-programming facilities, concurrency, and declarative input/output. The main design aim is to combine in a practical and comprehensive way the best ideas of existing functional and logic languages, such as Haskell and Gödel. In fact, Escher uses the Haskell syntax and is most straightforwardly understood as an extension of Haskell. Consequently, this paper discusses Escher from this perspective. It provides an introduction to the Escher language, concentrating largely on the issue of programming style and the Escher programming idioms not provided by Haskell. Also the extra mechanisms needed to support these idioms are discussed.
Molecular cloning of a novel apoptosis-related gene, human Nap1 (NCKAP1), and its possible relation to Alzheimer disease.

Expression profiles of thousands of genes (cDNAs) were analyzed in sporadic Alzheimer disease (AD)-affected brains in comparison with normal subjects by using the high-density cDNA filter method and differential display analysis. Among 31 differentially expressed genes, one gene was found to be markedly depressed in AD-affected brains. A full-length (or nearly full-length) cDNA of the gene was isolated and sequenced. The cDNA turned out to be an orthologue of rat Nap1. The gene was thus designated human Nap1 (HGMW-approved symbol NCKAP1) and was mapped to human chromosome 2q32 by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Northern blotting and in situ hybridization studies showed that in brain, the gene is predominantly expressed in neuronal cells. Antisense oligo DNA of human Nap1 transcripts was found to induce apoptosis of neuronal cells. Based on these results, the possible role of human Nap1 in AD is discussed.
A substitute for skin grafts, flaps, or internal tissue expanders in scalp defects following tumor ablative surgery.

BACKGROUND The skin of the scalp is relatively thick, minimally mobile, with distinct hair distribution. TopClosure® is a novel device for skin stretching and secure wound closure. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the efficacy of the TopClosure® system in primary closure of moderate and large scalp defects, as a substitute for skin grafts, flaps, and tissue expanders. METHODS We report a retrospective series of 8 patients requiring resection of 9 scalp tumors resulting with moderate to large size defects that otherwise would have required reconstruction with skin grafts, flaps, or tissue expanders. TopClosure® was applied for intraoperative cycles of stress-relaxation, followed, when indicated, by additional steps of mechanical creep and scar secure. RESULTS Skin defects, averaging 3.5 cm, were managed by TopClosure®, enabling, primary closure in all wounds. Immediate wound edge approximation was reached through stress-relaxation in 2 wounds by heavy tension sutures within one hour. Further skin stretching by mechanical creep was required in 7 wounds, achieving staged primary closure in an outpatient setting. TopClosure® was further applied to secure the skin for up to 3 weeks following surgery. CONCLUSIONS The TopClosure system, effectively, aided closure of moderate and large scalp defects by stress-relaxation and mechanical creep and serving as a topical tension-relief platform for tension sutures, allowing mobilization of skin and subcutaneous tissue without undermining or need of drainage, for early, direct wound closure. Local complications were minimal and donor site morbidity was eliminated. Surgical time, hospital stay and costs were reduced, and post-operative wound aesthetics were improved.
Correlates of Adherence to an Adolescent Weight Management Program: A Secondary Data Analysis

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between HRQOL and adherence to an adolescent weight management program and identify variables predictive of increased adherence which are critical to motivating engagement in weight management. This study was a non-experimental, retrospective secondary analysis from aggregate data collected as part of the REWARD Teens program, a weight management program for overweight and obese adolescents. Data from 37 subjects were included in this study. Subject adherence to the program was the primary outcome variable. There was no significant relationship between baseline adolescent or parent-proxy sub-scale or total HRQOL scores with program adherence. A significant positive relationship for improved adherence was found only when change in BMI (p=.023), change of parentproxy total PedsQL (p=.014), and change in child total PedsQL (p=.007) were present in the regression model. Body mass index and changes in both parent-proxy and child total HRQOL significantly affected attendance. Our findings suggest that baseline HRQOL does not affect program adherence. However, we identified a potentially novel interplay between variables predictive of program adherence. Future studies should focus on elucidating the mechanism by which these factors gained significance in the relationship with adherence when combined, perhaps as mediators or moderators, in order to identify interactions which may function as barriers or facilitators to adherence.
Performance of serum prostate‐specific antigen isoform [‐2]proPSA (p2PSA) and the prostate health index (PHI) in a Chinese hospital‐based biopsy population

The use of serum [‐2]proPSA (p2PSA) and its derivative, the prostate health index (PHI), in detecting prostate cancer (PCa) have been consistently shown to have better performance than total prostate‐specific antigen (tPSA) in discriminating biopsy outcomes in western countries. However, little is known about their performance in Chinese men. Our objective is to test the performance of p2PSA and PHI and their added value to tPSA in discriminating biopsy outcomes in Chinese men.
Mycosis fungoides—a disease of antigen persistence

The function of B‐ and T‐lymphocytes in nineteen patients with classical Alibert's mycosis fungoides (MF) was studied. In general there was no evidence of immune depression, not even in those with the disease for many years. The distribution of B‐cells in the peripheral blood was normal. No immunoglobulin‐ bearing lymphocytes were detected in freshly liberated cells from the skin lesions or on direct immunofluorescence microscopy of those lesions. Serum IgE levels were significantly elevated, even though only two of the patients were atopic. ‘Auto‐antibodies’ were detected in thirteen patients. Two cases of malignant lymphoma and one of Sézary syndrome contrasted strikingly with the mycosis fungoides (MF) group.
The deoxyribonucleases of Escherichia coli. VII. A deoxyribonuclease induced by infection with phage T-5.

Abstract The increase in deoxyribonuclease activity after infection of Escherichia coli with bacteriophage T5 has been shown to be due to the synthesis of a DNase different from those known to be present in the host cell. During the course of T5 infection the enzyme appears at about the same time as the phage-induced deoxycytidylate kinase and DNA polymerase and only after most of the cellular DNA has been rendered acid-soluble. Purification of the T5-induced DNase resulted in a preparation that is at least 80% pure, as judged by gel electrophoresis. The following properties of the purified enzyme have been established. 1. It has a pH optimum of 9.3 and requires Mg++ or Mn++ for maximal activity. 2. It can degrade either native or heat-denatured DNA. 3. Its mode of attack appears to be both endonucleolytic and exonucleolytic, yielding a mixture of small oligonucleotides with an average chain length of 4 to 5 and mono-nucleotides terminated with a 5'-phosphoryl group. 4. The proportion of mononucleotides produced from native E. coli DNA is about 4 times greater than that produced from heat-denatured DNA.