Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Superoxide Dismutase, BDNF, and Cognitive Improvement in Drug-Naive First-Episode Patients With Schizophrenia: A 12-Week Longitudinal Study

Abstract Objective Cognitive improvement after antipsychotic agents in patients with schizophrenia (SCZ) appears to involve redox regulation through neurotrophins such as brain derived neurotropic factor (BDNF). This study examined whether cognitive improvement was associated with the increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and whether higher levels of BDNF could have a permissive role in allowing SOD to improve cognition. Methods We examined this hypothesis in 183 drug-naïve first-episode SCZ patients taking risperidone monotherapy for 12 weeks. We measured total copper-zinc SOD (CuZn-SOD), manganese SOD (Mn-SOD), and SOD activities and BDNF levels in these patients and compared their levels with 152 healthy controls. We assessed cognitive functioning and clinical symptoms at baseline and 12-week follow-up. Results After treatment with risperidone, CuZn-SOD activity was significantly increased, and BDNF levels were slightly increased. Increased CuZn-SOD activity was associated with the cognitive effectiveness of risperidone monotherapy. The BDNF levels and SOD activities were correlated at baseline but not after 12-week treatment. Furthermore, baseline CuZn-SOD activity positively correlated with improvement on the delayed memory subscale of the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status only in the high BDNF subgroup. Conclusions Our longitudinal study suggests that risperidone can enhance SOD activity and that, in combination with higher baseline BDNF levels acting in a permissive role, can improve cognitive impairments in SCZ. Greater baseline CuZn-SOD activity also may have predictive value for cognitive improvement of delayed memory in SCZ patients receiving risperidone treatment.
The Prevalence of Intestinal Protozoan Infections among Children in Southwest Sumba Based on the Type of Water Sources

Background Intestinal protozoan infection is a public health problem in Indonesia, particularly in regions lacking clean water sources such as Perokonda and Perobatang villages, Southwest Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province. The residents of Perokonda and Perobatang villages use wells and unprotected open springs respectively. Therefore, this study aims to determine the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections in these two villages. Materials and Methods This was a cross-sectional study, carried out in Perokonda and Perobatang from August 2016 to August 2017. A total of 291 children aged 6 months to 18 years were used as subjects. Furthermore, fecal examinations were carried out by preparing smears, which were stained with lugol solution and examined under the microscopes by four experienced technicians. The data were processed using SPSS version 20 and analyzed by chi-square test. Results Among the 291 samples, the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections was 20%, with 23.4% in Perokonda and 17.2% in Perobatang. The predominant species found were Blastocystis hominis (34.5%), Giardia lamblia (19.0%), and Entamoeba coli (15.5%). Moreover, approximately 69.0% of single infections were found while 31.0% were mixed and associated with 2 to 3 protozoan species. There were no significant differences between the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections and the children in Perokonda and Perobatang villages (confidence interval 0.83 - 2.62, P = 0.19). Conclusion The type of water sources has no relationship with the species of intestinal protozoan infecting children in Perokonda and Perobatang.
Pharmacological characterization of novel heteromeric GluCl subtypes from Caenorhabditis elegans and parasitic nematodes

Macrocyclic lactones are the most widely used broad‐spectrum anthelmintic drugs for the treatment of parasitic nematodes affecting both human and animal health. Macrocyclic lactones are agonists of the nematode glutamate‐gated chloride channels (GluCls). However, for many important nematode species, the GluCls subunit composition and pharmacological properties remain largely unknown. To gain new insights into GluCl diversity and mode of action of macrocyclic lactones, we identified and pharmacologically characterized receptors made of highly conserved GluCl subunits from the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, the human filarial nematode Brugia malayi and the horse parasite Parascaris univalens.
Risk constellations, viral infections, and prophylaxis in uterine transplantation

Purpose of review Uterine transplantation (UTx) is a burgeoning new category of solid organ transplantation (SOT) that is practiced at several centers worldwide (first transplantation in 2013). Although there are still relatively low numbers of transplants (<75 published in literature), they are increasing in frequency and thus we attempt to discuss the current documented infections in this population as well as theoretical infectious risks and summarize prophylaxis and treatment strategies of centers current performing these procedures. Recent findings The most reported posttransplantation infection is not surprisingly urinary tract infections, with other documented infections including bacterial infections at site of graft (Enterococcus), herpes simplex virus, cytomegalovirus (CMV), human papillomavirus, Candida, and reportedly posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder. The net state of immunosuppression and host factors (host colonization and serologic status of viral exposures) plays a significant role in infectious risk and with low numbers of infections documented, much of our guidance surrounding prophylaxis is inferred from SOT literature. Summary In this review, we give an overview of described infections in UTx and theoretical infectious risks, detailing how to tailor prophylaxis base on host risk, with specific focus that the goal of transplantation is completion of a successful pregnancy as the desired outcome. Special considerations should be given to pregnant recipients when managing infectious complications and further data collection and reporting regarding infectious complications is crucial to advance this field as numbers of transplantation continue to increase.
N⁴ Sim: The First Nervous NaNoNetwork Simulator With Synaptic Molecular Communications

The unconventional nature of molecular communication necessitates contributions from a host of scientific fields making the simulator design for such systems to be quite challenging. The nervous system is one of the largest and most important nanonetworks of the body. Several molecular and nano communication simulators exist in literature along with a few neural network simulators, however, most existing simulators are not specific for the nervous system since they ignore the synaptic diffusion because of the computational complexity required to model it. Additionally, information and communication theoretical (ICT) analysis of the system is not directly supported by existing neural network simulators. In this work, we present and describe Neural NaNoNetwork Simulator, ${N}^{{4}}\textit {Sim}$ , which can resolve these issues in existing simulators. We describe key components of the simulator and methods to solve the synaptic communication in a fast and efficient manner. Our model for the synaptic communication channel is comparable in accuracy to those achieved by Monte Carlo simulations while using a fraction of time and processing resources. The presented simulator opens a large set of design options for applications in nervous system.
Occupational Adaptation as a Model for Intervention in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)

Abstract Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) often presents with chronic symptoms and impacts a wide variety of areas of occupation, including activities of daily living, sleep, work, school, leisure, play, and social participation. The Occupational Adaptation theory supports practitioners in offering clients opportunities to develop internal adaptive processes to achieve relative mastery in desired occupations. The present manuscript provides a foundation for Occupational Adaptation theory as an appropriate model for intervention in POTS with specific assessments and interventions to guide occupational therapy practitioners in implementing this approach. A case study describes the use of Occupational Adaptation in the clinical intervention of a college student with POTS.
Time Taken to Detect and Respond to Polio Outbreaks in Africa and the Potential Impact of Direct Molecular Detection and Nanopore Sequencing

Abstract Background Detection of poliovirus outbreaks relies on a complex laboratory algorithm of cell-culture, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and sequencing to distinguish wild-type and vaccine-derived polioviruses (VDPV) from Sabin-like strains. We investigated the potential for direct molecular detection and nanopore sequencing (DDNS) to accelerate poliovirus detection. Methods We analyzed laboratory data for time required to analyze and sequence serotype-2 VDPV (VDPV2) in stool collected from children with acute flaccid paralysis in Africa (May 2016–February 2020). Impact of delayed detection on VDPV2 outbreak size was assessed through negative binomial regression. Results VDPV2 confirmation in 525 stools required a median of 49 days from paralysis onset (10th–90th percentile, 29–74), comprising collection and transport (median, 16 days), cell-culture (7 days), intratypic differentiation quantitative reverse transcription PCR (3 days), and sequencing, including shipping if required (15 days). New VDPV2 outbreaks were confirmed a median of 35 days (27–60) after paralysis onset, which we estimate could be reduced to 16 days by DDNS (9–37). Because longer delays in confirmation and response were positively associated with more cases (P < .001), we estimate that DDNS could reduce the number of VDPV2 cases before a response by 28% (95% credible interval, 12%–42%). Conclusions DDNS could accelerate poliovirus outbreak response, reducing their size and the cost of eradication.
Association between the place of abortion and post-abortion contraceptive adoption and continuation: the case of India

Abstract The unmet need for contraception is documented as a significant determinant of unintended pregnancies and high number of induced abortions. The period immediately after an abortion is recognised as a unique opportunity to offer contraceptive services. This paper explores the association between place of abortion and women's post-abortion contraceptive behaviour. The reproductive calendar data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) (2015–16) was used for this study. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to understand factors associated with post-abortion method choices. Single decrement life-tables were built to examine rates of contraceptive discontinuation and proportional hazard models were employed to examine probability and correlates of method discontinuation. About 20% of women who underwent an abortion adopted a contraceptive method by the end of one month following an abortion. The decision to choose methods like sterilisation or intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs) was associated with the place of abortion, past contraceptive behaviour, number and sex of surviving children at the time of abortion, mass media exposure, and time of the abortion. Compared to women who underwent an abortion at private health facilities, women who sought abortion at public health facilities were more likely to choose permanent methods or IUCDs. Furthermore, women who opted for an IUCD were less likely to discontinue the method compared to those using short-acting modern methods. The lack of post-abortion contraceptive choices for women is evident in the low uptake of post-abortion contraceptives in private facilities and the predominant promotion of permanent methods and IUCDs in public health facilities.
Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Athlete Sleep Behavior Questionnaire.

CONTEXT Sleep has long been understood as an essential component for overall well-being, significantly impacting physical health, cognitive functioning, mental health, and quality of life. Currently, the Athlete Sleep Behavior Questionnaire (ASBQ) is the only known instrument designed to measure sleep behaviors in the athletic population. However, the psychometric properties of the scale in a collegiate student-athlete and dance population have not been established. OBJECTIVE To assess model fit of the ASBQ using a sample of collegiate student-athletes and competitive dancers. DESIGN Observational study. SETTING Twelve colleges and universities. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS Student-athletes and dancers competing at the collegiate level. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to assess the factor structure of the ASBQ. Principal component analysis (PCA) extraction and covariance modeling analyses were performed to identify an alternate model. Multi-group invariance testing was performed on the alternate model to identify if group differences existed between sex, athletic activity, injury status, and division of competition. RESULTS The CFA on the ASBQ indicated the model did not meet recommended model fit indices. An alternate three-factor, nine-item model with improved fit was identified; however, the scale structure was not consistently supported during multi-group invariance testing procedures. CONCLUSIONS The original three factor, 18-item ASBQ was not supported for use with collegiate athletes in our study. The alternate ASBQ was substantially improved; however, more research should be completed to ensure the nine-item instrument accurately captures all dimensions of sleep behavior relevant for collegiate athletes.
Cutaneous adverse reactions after COVID‐19 vaccines in a cohort of 2740 Italian subjects: An observational study

An in‐depth characterization of the incidence, morphology, and onset of COVID‐19‐vaccines cutaneous adverse reactions is currently lacking. The existing literature on COVID‐19 vaccination‐related cutaneous adverse reactions largely focused on messenger RNA vaccines and mainly included type 1 hypersensitivity reactions, such as urticaria and angioedema. Other cutaneous manifestations are still poorly characterized and have been classified as delayed hypersensitivity rash. Our prospective observational study on a sample of 2740 subjects who underwent the COVID‐19 vaccination aimed at defining the prevalence of cutaneous adverse reactions and at identifying their timing of onset and their correlation with the administered dose. Vaccine‐related cutaneous adverse reactions occurred in 50 subjects. Patients were asked to complete a questionnaire on the type of COVID‐19 vaccine received, the time of onset of cutaneous reactions, and the dates of administration. Out of 2740 individuals who received the COVID‐19 vaccination, 50 were diagnosed with cutaneous adverse reactions to vaccine, after the first dose in 28 patients, after the second in 20, and after both in two. We reported localized injection site erythema in 12 patients and generalized cutaneous reactions in 38 patients. Our study shows that cutaneous adverse reactions to COVID‐19 vaccination are not common and most often occur after the first dose, recurring infrequently after the second dose. These reactions are usually easily manageable and, even in severe generalized cases, oral antihistamines and corticosteroids were sufficient for resolution. Therefore, except for immediate hypersensitivity reactions, cutaneous adverse reactions do not represent a contraindication to the completion of the vaccination cycle.
Neuropathology Evaluation in Juvenile Toxicity Studies in Rodents: Comparison of Developmental Neurotoxicity Studies for Chemicals With Juvenile Animal Studies for Pediatric Pharmaceuticals

The developmental neuropathology examination in juvenile toxicity studies depends on the nature of the product candidate, its intended use, and the exposure scenario (eg, dose, duration, and route). Expectations for sampling, processing, and evaluating neural tissues differ for developmental neurotoxicity studies (DNTS) for chemicals and juvenile animal studies (JAS) for pediatric pharmaceuticals. Juvenile toxicity studies typically include macroscopic observations, brain weights, and light microscopic evaluation of routine hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained sections from major neural tissues (brain, spinal cord, and sciatic nerve) as neuropathology endpoints. The DNTS is a focused evaluation of the nervous system, so the study design incorporates perfusion fixation, plastic embedding of at least one nerve, quantitative analysis of selected brain regions, and sometimes special neurohistological stains. In contrast, the JAS examines multiple systems, so neural tissues undergo conventional tissue processing (eg, immersion fixation, paraffin embedding, H&E staining only). An “expanded neurohistopathology” (or “expanded neuropathology”) approach may be performed for JAS if warranted, typically by light microscopic evaluation of more neural tissues (usually additional sections of brain, ganglia, and/or more nerves) or/and special neurohistological stains, to investigate specific questions (eg, a more detailed exploration of a potential neuroactive effect) or to fulfill regulatory requests.
A mutation-mediated evolutionary adaptation of Zika virus in mosquito and mammalian host

Significance Zika virus (ZIKV) circulated undetectably for decades until its recent outbreak from 2015 to 2017. Our study demonstrated that a mutation in the ZIKV capsid protein (C-T106A) significantly increased the epidemic potential of ZIKV over its transmission cycle by promoting the efficient assembly of ZIKV virions. Our results offer additional evidence about the evolutionary enhancement of ZIKV infectivity in mammalian hosts and mosquitoes, potentially improving our understanding of the potential relationships between ZIKV evolution and the occasional widespread reemergence in nature. Zika virus (ZIKV) caused millions of infections during its rapid and expansive spread from Asia to the Americas from 2015 to 2017. Here, we compared the infectivity of ZIKV mutants with individual stable substitutions which emerged throughout the Asian ZIKV lineage and were responsible for the explosive outbreaks in the Americas. A threonine (T) to alanine (A) mutation at the 106th residue of the ZIKV capsid (C) protein facilitated the transmission by its mosquito vector, as well as infection in both human cells and immunodeficient mice. A mechanistic study showed that the T106A substitution rendered the C a preferred substrate for the NS2B-NS3 protease, thereby facilitating the maturation of structural proteins and the formation of infectious viral particles. Over a complete “mosquito-mouse-mosquito” cycle, the ZIKV C-T106A mutant showed a higher prevalence of mosquito infection than did the preepidemic strain, thus promoting ZIKV dissemination. Our results support the contribution of this evolutionary adaptation to the occasional widespread reemergence of ZIKV in nature.
Human-Scale Personal Fabrication

Building large structures from small elements, creating life-size animated creatures, or making contraptions that we can ride on have almost certainly been everyone's childhood dreams. However, researchers and practitioners of personal fabrication have been mainly focusing on creating objects that fit into a human palm, also called “hand-size” objects. The reason behind this is not only because of the size limitation of consumer-grade fabrication machinery but also because of the very long printing time and high material costs of large-scale prototypes. To overcome these limitations, I combine 3D printed hubs and ready-made objects, such as plastic bottles, as well as welding steel rods into a certain type of node-link structures called “trusses”. However, the actual challenge behind my work is not only about achieving the size, but ensuring that the resulting large structures withstand the orders of magnitude larger forces than their hand-sized counterparts. Designing such structures requires substantial engineering know-how that users of personal fabrication equipment, such as makers, typically do not possess. By providing the lacking engineering know-how, my three end-to-end software systems TrussFab, TrussFormer, and Trusscillator enable non-experts to build such human-scale static, kinetic, and human-powered dynamic devices, such as pavilions, large-scale animatronic devices, and playground equipment. These systems achieve this by allowing users to focus on high-level design aspects, such as shape, animation, or riding experience, while abstracting away the underlying technicalities of forces, inertia, eigenfrequencies, etc. To help building the designs, the software generates the connector pieces and assembly instructions. With this body of work, I aim at democratizing engineering that enables individuals to design and fabricate large-scale objects and mechanisms that involve human-scale forces.
ViTT: Towards a Virtual Reality System that Supports the Learning of Ergonomic Patient Transfers

While patient transfers are part of nurses’ daily work, the manual transfer of patients can also pose a major risk to nurses’ health. The Kinaesthetics care conception may help nurses to conduct patient transfers more ergonomically. However, existing support to learn the concept is low. We introduce ViTT, a Virtual Reality system to promote the individual, self-directed learning of ergonomic patient transfers based on the Kinaesthetics care conception. The current implementation of ViTT supports a nurse in two phases: (i) instructions for a patient transfer, and (ii) training of the transfer with a virtual patient (based on a physics engine; implementation limited). In contrast to previous work, our approach provides an immersive experience that may allow for the ‘safe’ training of different transfer scenarios—e.g., patients with different impairments—and the study of different parameters that may influence nurses’ learning experience—e.g., the simulation of stress—in the future.
Research on fusion of SAR image and multispectral image using texture feature information

Remote sensing images have the characteristics of multiple data sources and complex data. How to integrate remote sensing image information more efficiently has always been the focus of research. In this paper, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China was selected as the experimental area, Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 images were used as experimental data, and a fusion method of SAR image and multispectral image using texture feature information was proposed. First, perform HIS transformation on the multi-spectral image to obtain the intensity image. After that, wavelet transform was used to extract the high-frequency and low-frequency detail components of the intensity image. At the same time, the principal component analysis method and the deep learning network VGG-19 were used to extract the texture features of the SAR image. The SAR texture image was used to enhance the high-frequency detail component of the intensity image, and combined with the original low-frequency detail component to perform inverse wavelet transform, then a new intensity image was obtained. Finally, the modulated intensity image was used to replace the original intensity image, and the inverse transformation (I-HIS) was performed to obtain an enhanced image fused from the multispectral image and the SAR image. Compared with the original image, the detailed features and boundary distinction were significantly improved. The fusion image was input into the support vector machine for feature classification, and the comprehensive classification accuracy reached 94.74%, which was 3.5% higher than the classification accuracy of the unfused image.