Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Impact on radiological practice of active guideline implementation of musculoskeletal guideline, as measured over a 12-month period

Background An ever-increasing technological development in the field of radiology urges a need for guidelines to provide predictable and just health services. A musculoskeletal guideline was developed in Norway in 2014, without active implementation. Purpose To investigate the impact of active guideline implementation on the use of musculoskeletal diagnostic imaging most frequently encountered in general practice (pain in the neck, shoulders, lower back, and knees). Material and Methods The total number of outpatient radiological examinations across modalities registered at the Norwegian Health Economics Administration between January 2013 and February 2019 was assessed using an interrupted time series design. Results A 12% reduction in the total examination of Magnetic Resonance Imaging shoulder and knee, and x-ray lower back and shoulder was found at a significant level (p = 0.05). Stratified analysis (Magnetic Resonance Imaging examination as one group and x-ray examinations as the other) showed that this reduction mainly was due to the reduction in the use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging examinations (shoulder and knee) which was reduced by 24% at a significant level (p = 0.002), while x-ray examinations had no significant level change (p = 0.71). No other statistically significant changes were found. Conclusion The impact of the implementation on the use of imaging of the neck, shoulder, lower back, and knee is uncertain. Significant reductions were demonstrated in the use of some examinations in the intervention county, but similar effects were not seen when including a control group in the analysis. This indicates a diffusion of the implementation, or other interventions or events that affected both counties and occurred in the intervention period.
COVID‐19, Government Transfer Payments, and Investment Decisions in Farming Business: Evidence from Northern India

Abstract Although the COVID‐19 pandemic resulted in about a 24% decline in India's GDP during the April–June 2020 quarter, the nation's agricultural sector, somewhat surprisingly, seems to have done remarkably well. This paper examines whether the public transfer program Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY), announced immediately after the lockdown, benefited farmers in dealing with the COVID shock. Overall, 95% of the smallholders received support from at least one of PMGKY's four components. Direct cash transfers had significantly more impact than in‐kind transfer schemes. The result shows that farmers receiving cash transfers under PM‐KISAN, one component of PMGKY, were more likely to invest in buying seeds. In contrast, farmers receiving cash transfers under PM‐UY, another piece of PMGKY, were more likely to invest in fertilizer and pesticides. Finally, smallholders who received benefits from all four components of PMGKY were more likely to invest in purchasing seeds, fertilizer, and pesticides. Findings suggest the fungibility of public cash transfers from the recent PMGKY scheme is significant in alleviating credit constraints and increasing future investments in modern inputs.
Subclinical atherosclerosis and associated risk factors among HIV-infected adults in Jos, North Central Nigeria: a cross-sectional study

Introduction human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is evolving into a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) where the burden of HIV remains high. Atherosclerosis underlie progression to CVD. We therefore examined the prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis and its association with traditional and non-traditional risk factors for CVD in Nigerian HIV-infected adults. Methods this was a cross-sectional study involving randomly selected stable HIV-infected patients with undetectable viral load attending HIV clinics at the Jos University Teaching Hospital and Faith Alive Foundation in Jos, Nigeria. Demographic data, biophysical measurements, cardiovascular risk factors and information regarding HIV-related factors, fasting serum lipid profile, fasting plasma glucose, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and Carotid-Intima-Media-Thickness (CIMT) were assessed. Subclinical atherosclerosis was defined using a cut-off value of mean CIMT ≥ 0.78 mm. Data were analyzed with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences® (SPSS) software version 23.0 (IBM Corp., Chicago, Illinois, USA). Bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were used to examine the association between risk factors of CVD and subclinical atherosclerosis. The statistical significance level was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results a total of 148 HIV adults (70.9% being females) on Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) were included in this study. The prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis was 7.4%. Among subjects with subclinical atherosclerosis (SCA), 63.6% were males and 81.8% were hypertensive. Elevated blood glucose, lipids and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, body mass index (BMI), HIV-related parameters (duration of HIV infection, antiretroviral regimen, CD4+ cell count), current smoking status, alcohol use, were not significantly associated with subclinical atherosclerosis (p>0.05). Male gender [OR(95%CI=4.91(1.36-17.77)], age [OR(95%CI)=1.14(1.06-1.23)], hypertension [OR(95%CI=14.4(3.03-71.86)] and metabolic syndrome [OR(95%CI=8.34(1.73-40.18)] were significantly associated with SCA at bivariate analysis. After adjusting for age, sex and antiretroviral regimen, only increasing age [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) (95% confidence interval (CI)] = 1.12(1.01-1.25)] and hypertension [AOR (95%CI)=10.67 (1.31-87.18)], remained as independent predictors of subclinical atherosclerosis (SCA). Conclusion the prevalence of subclinical atherosclerosis among HIV-infected adults is high in Nigeria. It is significantly associated with increasing age and hypertension. Traditional CVD risk factors such as dyslipidaemia, diabetes mellitus and obesity were not associated with subclinical atherosclerosis in this population.
An efficient primary screening of COVID‐19 by serum Raman spectroscopy

Abstract The outbreak of COVID‐19 coronavirus disease around the end of 2019 has become a pandemic. The preferred method for COVID‐19 detection is the real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR)‐based technique; however, it also has certain limitations, such as sample‐dependent procedures with a relatively high false negative ratio. We propose a safe and efficient method for screening COVID‐19 based on Raman spectroscopy. A total of 177 serum samples are collected from 63 confirmed COVID‐19 patients, 59 suspected cases, and 55 healthy individuals as a control group. Raman spectroscopy is adopted to analyze these samples, and a machine learning support‐vector machine (SVM) method is applied to the spectrum dataset to build a diagnostic algorithm. Furthermore, 20 independent individuals, including 5 asymptomatic COVID‐19 patients and 5 symptomatic COVID‐19 patients, 5 suspected patients, and 5 healthy patients, were sampled for external validation. In these three groups—confirmed COVID‐19, suspected, and healthy individuals—the distribution of statistically significant points of difference showed highly consistency for intergroups after repeated sampling processes. The classification accuracy between the COVID‐19 cases and the suspected cases is 0.87 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.85–0.88), and the accuracy between the COVID‐19 and the healthy controls is 0.90 (95% CI: 0.89–0.91), while the accuracy between the suspected cases and the healthy control group is 0.68 (95% CI: 0.67–0.73). For the independent test dataset, we apply the obtained SVM model to the classification of the independent test dataset to have all the results correctly classified. Our model showed that the serum‐level classification results were all correct for independent test dataset. Our results suggest that Raman spectroscopy could be a safe and efficient technique for COVID‐19 screening.
Electro-Filtering Spray Ionization Source for Soil Analysis

ABSTRACT An electro-filtering spray ionization source for ambient mass spectrometry is reported. The ion source was assembled with a conical metal filter with a paper cone. The performance of the new ion source was characterized by the analysis of soil. Soil was directly introduced into the filter-paper cone and solvent was added. Ions were produced at the filter-paper tip when a high voltage was applied. The results by electro-filtering spray ionization were in good agreement with the results using conventional electrospray ionization with complex sample preparation. Advantages of electro-filtering spray ionization include simplicity, speed, and convenient operation that may allow in situ analysis in ambient atmospheric conditions.
PKC98E Regulates Odorant Responses in Drosophila melanogaster

Drosophila odorant receptors (Ors) are ligand gated ion channels composed of a common receptor subunit Or co-receptor (ORCO) and one of 62 “tuning” receptor subunits that confer odorant specificity to olfactory neuron responses. Like other sensory systems studied to date, exposing Drosophila olfactory neurons to activating ligands results in reduced responses to subsequent exposures through a process called desensitization. We recently showed that phosphorylation of serine 289 on the common Or subunit ORCO is required for normal peak olfactory neuron responses. Dephosphorylation of this residue occurs on prolonged odorant exposure, and underlies the slow modulation of olfactory neuron responses we term “slow desensitization. ” Slow desensitization results in the reduction of peak olfactory neuron responses and flattening of dose–response curves, implicating changes in ORCOS289 phosphorylation state as an important modulator of olfactory neuron responses. Here, we report the identification of the primary kinase responsible for ORCOS289 phosphorylation, PKC98E. Antiserum localizes the kinase to the dendrites of the olfactory neurons. Deletion of the kinase from olfactory neurons in the naive state (the absence of prolonged odor exposure) reduces ORCOS289 phosphorylation and reduces peak odorant responses without altering receptor localization or expression levels. Genetic rescue with a PKC98E predicted to be constitutively active restores ORCO S289 phosphorylation and olfactory neuron sensitivity to the PKC98E mutants in the naive state. However, the dominant kinase is defective for slow desensitization. Together, these findings reveal that PKC98E is an important regulator of ORCO receptors and olfactory neuron function. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT We have identified PKC98E as the kinase responsible for phosphorylation of the odorant receptor co-receptor (ORCO) at S289 that is required for normal odorant response kinetics of olfactory neurons. This is a significant step toward revealing the enzymology underlying the regulation of odorant response regulation in insects.
Electron-transfer reactions on CdSe colloids as studied by pulse radiolysis

Optical effects due to size quantization have been observed for CdSe colloids with particle diameters < 50 A. Electron-transfer reactions from different electron donors such as (CH3)2ĊOH and ĊO–2 radicals to CdSe colloidal particles were studied by pulse radiolysis. The optical properties of excess electrons show an absorption maximum at 300 nm which corresponds to trapped electrons and formation of Cd+ sites in the bulk and at the surface of semiconductor particles. Cd+ sites are not long-lived: they undergo further reduction to Cd0. The equilibrium of electron transfer between nitrobenzene anion radicals and CdSe colloidal particles in acetonitrile solution was also studied with pulse radiolysis. The equilibrium concentration of nitrobenzene anion radicals in the presence of CdSe colloids can be exploited to derive the redox potential of semiconductor colloids; a value of –1.20 ± 0.05 V vs. SCE was determined.
Cassia Abbreviata Enhances Glucose Uptake and Glucose Transporter 4 Translocation in C2C12 Mouse Skeletal Muscle Cells

Background. This study aim at assessing C. abbreviata aqueous extracts for its potential to exhibit anti-diabetic activity in skeletal muscle cells. In addition to the toxicological and glucose absorption studies, the action of C. abbreviata extracts on some major genes involved in the insulin signaling pathway was established. Methods. The in vitro cytotoxic effects C. abbreviata was evaluated on muscle cells using the MTT assay and the in vitro glucose uptake assay conducted using a modified glucose oxidase method described by Van de Venter et al. (2008). The amount of GLUT-4 on cell surfaces was estimated quantitatively using the flow cytometry technique. Real time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to determine the expression of GLUT-4, IRS-1, PI3 K, Akt1, Akt2, PPAR-γ. Results. Cytotoxicity tests revealed that all extracts tested at various concentrations were non-toxic (LC50 > 5000). Aqueous extracts of leaves, bark and seeds resulted in a dose-dependent increase in glucose absorption by cells, after 1 h, 3 h and 6 h incubation period. Extracts of all three plant parts had the best effect after 3 h incubation, with the leaf extract showing the best activity across time (Glucose uptake of 29%, 56% and 42% higher than untreated control cells after treatment with 1 mg/ml extract at 1 h, 3 h and 6 h, respectively). All extracts, with the exception 500 µg/ml seed extract, induced a two-fold increase in GLUT-4 translocation while marginally inducing GLUT-10 translocation in the muscle cells. The indirect immunofluorescence confirmed that GLUT-4 translocation indeed occurred. There was an increased expression of GLUT-4, IRS1 and PI3 K in cells treated with insulin and bark extract as determined by the RT-qPCR. Conclusion. The study reveals that glucose uptake involves GLUT-4 translocation through a mechanism that is likely to involve the upstream effectors of the PI3-K/Akt pathway.
Enzymatic oxidation of substituted tryptamines catalysed by monoamine oxidase

Abstract The enzymatic deamination of 5-fl uorotryptamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT, catalysed by enzyme monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A, EC 1.4.3.4) was investigated using the kinetic (KIE) and solvent (SIE) isotope effects methods. The numerical values of deuterium isotope effects in the (1R) positions of 5-F-tryptamine were determined using non-competitive spectrophotomeric method. Isotopologue 5-F-[(1R)- -2H]-tryptamine, needed for kinetic studies was obtained by enzymatic decarboxylation of 5´-fl uoro-L-tryptophan, 5´-F-L-Trp, in fully deuteriated medium.
Health and weight attitudes of university recreation center leaders

Abstract Objective: Emerging research suggests weight-neutral approaches to health promotion are effective in supporting overall health, but they have been minimally adopted within physical activity (PA) contexts. This is concerning as research shows PA-related professionals can perpetuate weight stigma, which can disrupt PA participation and enjoyment. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine university recreation center (URC) leaders’ attitudes toward health and weight. Participants and methods: One-hundred forty-one URC leaders completed the online Health and Weight Attitudes Scale. Results: Women and those who wanted to maintain weight had more positive attitudes toward not dieting than men (F (1,136)=5.090, p = 0.026, ηp 2 = 0.036) and those who wanted to lose weight (p = 0.015). Participants’ open-ended responses showed they held several misconceptions about the health and weight relationship and about weight-neutral eating and PA messaging. Conclusion: Educating PA professionals on weight-neutral approaches could benefit effective and inclusive PA and health promotion in URCs.
Corrosion study of Ti6Al7Nb alloy after thermal, anodic and alkali surface

ABSTRACT Purpose: The aim of the work was to work out methods to improve biocompatibility of the Ti6Al7Nb alloy by creating thick, porous layer which ensure corrosion resistance and which could be a base for biological reactions leading to improvements in the tissue bond with the implant. Design/methodology/approach: Surface were prepared using electropolishing, thermal oxidation, thermal oxidation in TiO 2 powder, anodic oxidation in NaH 2 PO 4 , in NaOH and spark oxidation in H 2 SO 4 +H 3 PO 4 . The roughness was examined using MSP and LPM. Corrosion resistance tests were carried out in SBF with pH values characterized for neutral, inflammatory and stagnation state. Topographical features were determined using confocal microscope. Findings: The surface treatments guarantee a smooth surface (low value of Ra and RZDIN) or porous surface structure and high corrosion resistance. Topographical parameters of the layer can be altered according to the duration of that process. The corrosion resistance of the specimens anodically oxidized in NaOH and spark oxidized possessed high corrosion resistance in SBF also in SBF with low and high pH value.
Prognostic and clinicopathological significance of GPRC5A in various cancers: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background GPRC5A is associated with various cancer initiation and progression. Controversial findings have been reported about GPRC5A prognostic characteristics, and no meta-analysis has been conducted to assess the relationship between GPRC5A and cancer prognosis. Therefore, the objective of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the overall prognostic effectiveness of GPRC5A. Methods We first conducted a systematic search in the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, Cochrane, and WangFang databases. The hazard ratio (HR) and odds ratios (OR) with 95% CI were then pooled to assess the associations between GPRC5A expression and overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), event-free survival (EFS), and clinicopathological characteristics. Chi-squared test and I2 statistics were completed to evaluate the heterogeneity in our study. A random‐effects model was used when significant heterogeneity existed (I2>50% and p<0.05); otherwise, we chose the fixed-effect model. Subgroup analysis was stratified by tumor type, region, HR obtained measurements, and sample capacity to explore the source of heterogeneity. Results In total, 15 studies with 624 patients met inclusion criteria of this study. Our results showed that higher expression of GPRC5A is associated with worse OS (HR:1.69 95%CI: 1.20–2.38 I2 = 75.6% p = 0.000), as well as worse EFS (HR:1.45 95%CI: 1.02–1.95 I2 = 0.0% p = 0.354). Subgroup analysis indicated that tumor type might be the source of high heterogeneity. Additionally, cancer patients with enhanced GPRC5A expression were more likely to lymph node metastasis (OR:1.95, 95%CI 1.33–2.86, I2 = 43.9%, p = 0.129) and advanced tumor stage (OR: 1.83, 95%CI 1.15–2.92, I2 = 61.3%, p = 0.035), but not associated with age, sex, differentiation, and distant metastasis. Conclusion GPRC5A can be a promising candidate for predicting medical outcomes and used for accurate diagnosis, prognosis prediction for patients with cancer; however, the predictive value of GPRC5A varies significantly according to cancer type. Further studies for this mechanism will be necessary to reveal novel insights into application of GPRC5A in cancers.
Snake Effect: A Novel Haptic Illusion

We present a novel, movement-based haptic illusion called the “snake effect. ” Unlike apparent motion or sensory saltation, the snake effect feels wavy and creepy as though the belly of a slithering snake is making and breaking contact with the skin. This illusion is achieved by modulating the amplitudes of vibrotactile pulses sent successively to an array of tactors. Pilot testing established the following signal parameters for creating the snake effect: a minimal pulse duration of 1.69 s, carrier frequency in the range of 200-300 Hz, amplitude modulation of the carrier with a sine, sine-squared or Gaussian waveform (shown to be more effective than a linear up-and-down ramp), and a peak amplitude of 30 dB above detection threshold. The main experiment examined the most effective signal onset asynchrony (SOA) ranges by estimating the upper and lower SOA thresholds using a one-up one-down adaptive procedure with interleaved ascending and descending series. The results indicate an optimal SOA range from 271.5 ms to 798 ms with a midpoint of 535 ms. The snake effect is a vivid illusion that can be used as a distinctive signal for encoding information and to enhance immersion and engagement in gaming and entertainment.
Nullspace Approach to Determine the Elementary Modes of Chemical Reaction Systems

The analysis of a chemical reaction network by elementary flux modes is a very elegant method to deal with the stationary states of the system. Each steady state of the network can be represented as a convex combination of these modes. They are elements of the nullspace of the stoichiometry matrix due to the imposed steady-state condition. We propose an approach, which first derives the basis vectors of the nullspace and then calculates the elementary modes by an apt linear combination of the basis vectors. The algorithm exploits the special representation of the nullspace matrix in the space of flows and the fact that elementary modes consist of a minimal set of flows. These two ingredients lead to construction rules, which diminish the combinatorial possibilities to design elementary modes and, hence, reduce the computational costs. Further, we show that the algorithm also accounts for reversible reactions. If a system includes reversible reactions, it can be transformed into an unidirectional network b.
Multi-Label Classification With Label-Specific Feature Generation: A Wrapped Approach

Label-specific features serve as an effective strategy to learn from multi-label data, where a set of features encoding specific characteristics of each label are generated to help induce multi-label classification model. Existing approaches work by taking the two-stage strategy, where the procedure of label-specific feature generation is independent of the follow-up procedure of classification model induction. Intuitively, the performance of resulting classification model may be suboptimal due to the decoupling nature of the two-stage strategy. In this paper, a wrapped learning approach is proposed which aims to jointly perform label-specific feature generation and classification model induction. Specifically, one (kernelized) linear model is learned for each label where label-specific features are simultaneously generated within an embedded feature space via empirical loss minimization and pairwise label correlation regularization. Comparative studies over a total of sixteen benchmark data sets clearly validate the effectiveness of the wrapped strategy in exploiting label-specific features for multi-label classification.