Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Gas sensing studies of thick and thin films of WO3

Screen-printing technique and spray pyrolysis method were used to prepare thick and thin films of WO3 (Tungsten Oxide). The gas sensing performance of the both films were tested for various gases at different temperatures and results are correlated. The WO3 thick film showed good response (S=191.31) to H2S at 3500C and WO3 thin film showed poor response (S=6.48) at 3500C for 400 ppm. The gas response, selectivity and thermal stability of the sensor were measured and presented
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute inflammation of the gallbladder.

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to prospectively assess the results of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with acute inflammation of the gallbladder. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has become the standard treatment for symptomatic gallbladder disease. Its role in the surgical treatment of acute cholecystitis has not been defined, although a number of recent reports suggest that there should be few contraindications to an initial laparoscopic approach. METHODS All patients presenting with symptomatic cholelithiasis from October 1990 until June 1992 were evaluated at laparoscopy with intention of proceeding to a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The gross appearance of the gallbladder was categorized as acute inflammation, chronic inflammation, or no inflammation. Ninety-eight (23.4%) of 418 patients had acute inflammation of the gallbladder: 55 were edematous, 10 were gangrenous, 15 had a mucocele, and 18 had an empyema. RESULTS The authors assessed outcome in these patients. The frequency of conversion to an open operation was 33.7% for acute inflammation, 21.7% for chronic inflammation (p < 0.05), and 4% for no inflammation (p < 0.001). The conversion rate was highest for empyema (83.3%) and gangrenous cholecystitis (50%), while the conversion rate for edematous cholecystitis was 21.8% and for acute inflammation with a mucocele it was 7%. The median operation time for successful laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute inflammation was 105 minutes, which was longer than that with no inflammation (90 minutes). However, the incidence of complications was not different from that for chronic or no inflammation. The median postoperative stay for patients with acute gallbladder inflammation was 2 days for successful laparoscopic cholecystectomy and 7 days for patients converted to an open operation. CONCLUSIONS Laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute inflammation of the gallbladder is safe and is associated with a significantly shorter postoperative stay compared to open surgery. A greater number of patients required conversion to open operation compared to those with no obvious inflammation. Conversion to open operation was most frequent for empyema and gangrenous cholecystitis, suggesting that once this diagnosis is made, excessive time should not be spent in laparoscopic trial dissection before converting to an open operation.
Dysmotility disorders: a nutritional approach

Purpose of reviewChronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO) results in markedly compromised peristalsis mimicking an intestinal occlusion. The main goals of CIPO management are to improve intestinal propulsion and to maintain adequate nutrition status. The review describes the global management of CIPO including methods of diagnosis and nutritional, pharmacological and surgical therapies. Recent findingsThe principles of CIPO management are to perform a physiological assessment of the gastrointestinal tract involved, to improve symptoms and to prevent malnutrition. We shall discuss the place of physiological motility tests such as intestinal manometry and the cine-magnetic resonance imaging to facilitate diagnosis. Home parenteral nutrition (HPN) is a frequently used therapy with a high dependence level. However, recent data are consistent with a good long-term prognosis. Currently, CIPO becomes a significant cause of chronic intestinal failure. We discuss the outcomes of HPN and surgery. SummaryCIPO is a rare and complex disease. Small bowel manometry remains a gold standard for diagnosis, but new imaging tools appear promising. The management of CIPO requires the cooperation of specialists involved in the intestinal failure field. The better knowledge of CIPO prognosis should encourage clinicians to propose intestinal transplantation in selected cases.
Augmented Table-Top Role-Playing Game with Movement-Based Gameplay and Arm-Worn Devices

Augmenting table-top role-playing games (TTRPG) is a trending subject in game research. Different objects and interaction modalities such as surface displays, tangible devices or interactive rooms are used for the augmentation of TTRPG. Still, usage of wearable devices and movement-based gameplay in such games is a rather underexplored area although they have a potential for enhancing the player experience according to the previous studies. To delve into this area, we developed a new interactive environment comprised of arm-worn devices and an augmented die. These devices, together with a new role-playing game system, facilitate movement-based gameplay which encourage players to enact their characters with their bodies. In this paper, we explained the specifications of this gaming environment and our demonstration setting.
A Resolution Independent 2-Bits-per-Cycle SAR ADC

This paper proposes a resolution independent architecture for SAR ADCs. The proposed architecture uses 2 bits per cycle conversion and is made independent of number of ADC bits. A 2-bit flash ADC is used to compute 2-bits in each iteration. The reference voltage across the resistor divider of the 2-bit flash ADC is changed in each iteration based on the 2-bits resolved in the previous iteration. The reference voltages for each iteration are generated using a pair of modified switched capacitor-based DACs. The new DAC architecture used in the proposed ADC can use the thermometric code output of the 2-bit flash ADC directly, avoiding the need for complex control circuitry. The dependency of DAC architecture on the ADC resolution, observed in conventional SAR ADCs, has been absorbed into the digital logic which is easy to design. The proposed architecture is validated using an 8 bit ADC designed in 0.25 μm CMOS process.
Biochemical Studies in the Liver and Muscle of Patients with Zellweger Syndrome

Summary: Biochemical studies have been performed in muscle, liver, leukocytes, and fibroblasts from patients suffering from the Zellweger syndrome. Oxidation rates of [1-14C]pyruvate, [U-14C]malate, and [1-14C]2-oxoglutarate were strongly reduced in skeletal muscle homogenate. Oxygen consumption in isolated skeletal muscle mitochondria could only be stimulated by ADP in the presence of ascorbate and N,N,N1,N1-tetramethyl-p-phenylenediamine. Cytochrome contents in heart muscle and liver mitochondria were normal. A very low activity of succinate-ubiquinone oxidoreductase was found in liver homogenate of two patients. From the effect of 2-thenoyltrifluoroacetone on the succinate-phenazine methosulphate oxidoreductase activity, a nearly competitive inhibition with respect to phenazine methosulphate was demonstrated in contrast with a non-competitive inhibition in controls. Normal oxidation rate of [1-14C]pyruvate and [2-14C]pyruvate was found in leucocytes and fibroblasts. Lactate and pyruvate levels were normal in serum and cerebrospinal fluid and β-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate levels were normal in blood. The ratios lactate/pyruvate and β-hydroxybutyrate/acetoacetate were normal as well. These findings point to a defect in the electron transport chain at the succinate-ubiquinone oxidoreductase level. This defect might be related to the absence of peroxisomes in the cells of Zellweger patients.
Counteractive Effects of ABA and GA3 on Extracellular and Intracellular pH and Malate in Barley Aleurone

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) aleurone layers are known to constitutively acidify their surroundings, primarily by L-malic acid release (J. Mikola, M. Virtanen [1980] Plant Physiol 66: S-142). Here we demonstrate the antagonistic effects of the plant hormones gibberellic acid (GA3) and abscisic acid (ABA) on the regulation of extracellular pH (pHe) of barley aleurone layers. We observed a strong correlation between ABA-induced enhancement of extracellular acidification and an ABA-induced increase in L-malic acid release. In addition, ABA caused an increase in intracellular L-malate level. GA3 caused a slight decrease in intracellular L-malate level and was able to inhibit the ABA-induced increase in L-malate intracellular concentration and release. In addition, this ABA-induced L-malate release could be completely inhibited by GA3. The ABA-induced release of L-malic acid could not account for the total ABA-induced pHe decrease, suggesting the existence of an additional mechanism involved in the regulation of pHe. It has been reported that ABA induces an intracellular pH (pHi) increase, possibly due to the activation of plasma membrane proton pumps (R. Van der Veen, S. Heimovaara-Dijkstra, M. Wang [1992] Plant Physiol 100: 699–705). A pHi increase, such as that caused by ABA, might be correlated with the intracellular L-malate increase as suggested by the pH stat model of D.D. Davies ([1986] Physiol Plant 67: 702–706). We studied if the effects of GA3 on L-malate concentration were correlated with changes in pHi and found that GA3 caused a pHi decrease and that GA3 and ABA could interfere in the regulation of pHi. In addition, we were able to mimic the effect of both hormones on L-malate release by bringing about artifical pHi changes with the weak acid 5,5-dimethyl-2,4-oxazolidinedione and the weak base methylamine. The physiological meaning of the effects of GA3 and ABA on the regulation of both pHe and pHi during grain germination are discussed.
A comparison of risk factors associated with community-associated methicillin-resistant and -susceptible Staphylococcus aureus infections in remote communities

SUMMARY In this case-control study, cases [community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA), n=79] and controls [community-associated methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (CA-MSSA), n=36] were defined as a laboratory-confirmed infection in a patient with no previous hospital-associated factors. Skin and soft tissue were the predominant sites of infection, both for cases (67·1%) and controls (55·6%). Most of the cases (79·7%) and controls (77·8%) were aged <30 years. Investigations did not reveal any significant statistical differences in acquiring a CA-MRSA or CA-MSSA infection. The most common shared risk factors included overcrowding, previous antibiotic usage, existing skin conditions, household exposure to someone with a skin condition, scratches/insect bites, and exposure to healthcare workers. Similar risk factors, identified for both CA-MRSA and CA-MSSA infections, suggest standard hygienic measures and proper treatment guidelines would be beneficial in controlling both CA-MRSA and CA-MSSA in remote communities.
Melatonin uses in oncology: breast cancer prevention and reduction of the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation

Introduction: The possible oncostatic properties of melatonin on different types of neoplasias have been studied especially in hormone-dependent adenocarcinomas. Despite the promising results of these experimental investigations, the use of melatonin in breast cancer treatment in humans is still uncommon. Areas covered: This article reviews the usefulness of this indoleamine for specific aspects of breast cancer management, particularly in reference to melatonin's antiestrogenic and antioxidant properties: i) treatments oriented to breast cancer prevention, especially when the risk factors are obesity, steroid hormone treatment or chronodisruption by exposure to light at night (LAN); ii) treatment of the side effects associated with chemo- or radiotherapy. Expert opinion: The clinical utility of melatonin depends on the appropriate identification of its actions. Because of its SERM (selective estrogen receptor modulators) and SEEM (selective estrogen enzyme modulators) properties, and its virtual absence of contraindications, melatonin could be an excellent adjuvant with the drugs currently used for breast cancer prevention (antiestrogens and antiaromatases). The antioxidant actions also make melatonin a suitable treatment to reduce oxidative stress associated with chemotherapy, especially with anthracyclines, and radiotherapy
Properties of large-conductance K+ channels in human myometrium during pregnancy and labour

The conversion of the electrically silent pregnant uterus to highly excitable at term represents a dramatic physiological event which is poorly understood. Here we provide the first description, from single-channel recordings, of a large conductance (212 pS) calcium-activated potassium channel (BKca) in human pregnant myometrium which, in labour tissue, is either absent or has been considerably altered in its physiological and pharmacological properties. In the latter, the K+ channels have an identical conductance (221 pS) and K+ selectivity to BKca channels but exhibit no Ca2+ or voltage sensitivity. We have termed these BK channels. Furthermore, the activity of the BKca channel from pregnant tissue is inhibited by internal application of Ba2+ but not tetraethylammonium (TEA), whereas the activity of the BK channel is sensitive to internal TEA but not Ba2+. The role of the BKca channel may be to suppress myometrial activity during gestation whereas BK channel activity may be important in providing a Ca2+-independent K+ conductance which would allow cytoplasmic Ca2+ levels to rise without activating a counteracting Ca2+-dependent outward current, normally provided by the BKca channels which, by its very nature, would tend to oppose depolarization. The findings suggest that K+ channels may have an important role in determining the functional activity of the myometrium.
Interactive Multi-View Video Adaptation for 3DTV

This paper presents the descriptions related to user's preferences for multi-view video presentation, which can be utilized in MPEG-21 digital item adaptation. Our description tools support the functionalities for presentation preferences and terminal capabilities. The description of presentation preferences supports user's preference for the view presentation such as view selection, 3D depth adjustment, and special visual effects as well as the multi-view camera geometry conversion. Furthermore, the description of terminal capabilities supports capabilities for various display devices. Therefore, users can enjoy among monoscopic, stereoscopic, and multiscopic video they prefer. The syntax of the descriptions is represented in XML (extensible Markup Language) schema. We offer an interactive communication between DIA server and client through these descriptions related to user's preferences. Their feasibility has been examined and verified in our experiments, where test sequences are adapted by view preferences.
Long-Term Neurocognitive Functioning and Social Attainment in Adult Survivors of Pediatric CNS Tumors: Results From the St Jude Lifetime Cohort Study.

PURPOSE To assess the prevalence and severity of neurocognitive impairment in adult survivors of pediatric CNS tumors and to examine associated treatment exposures. PATIENTS AND METHODS Participants included 224 survivors of CNS tumors who were treated at St Jude Children's Research Hospital (current median age [range], 26 years [19 to 53 years]; time from diagnosis, 18 years [11 to 42 years]) and completed neurocognitive testing. Information on cranial radiation therapy (CRT) doses and parameters of delivery were abstracted from medical records. The prevalence of severe impairment (ie, at least two standard deviations below normative mean) was compared across radiation treatment groups (no CRT, focal irradiation, craniospinal irradiation) using the χ(2) test. Log-binomial models were used to estimate risk ratios (RRs) and corresponding 95% CIs for severe impairment. RESULTS In multivariable models, craniospinal irradiation was associated with a 1.5- to threefold increased risk of severe impairment compared with no CRT (eg, intelligence: RR = 2.70; 95% CI, 1.37 to 5.34; memory: RR = 2.93; 95% CI, 1.69 to 5.08; executive function: RR = 1.74; 95% CI, 1.24 to 2.45). Seizures were associated with impaired academic performance (RR = 1.48; 95% CI, 1.02 to 2.14), attention (RR = 1.54; 95% CI, 1.12 to 2.13), and memory (RR = 1.44; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.99). Hydrocephalus with shunt placement was associated with impaired intelligence (RR = 1.78; 95% CI, 1.12 to 2.82) and memory (RR = 1.42; 95% CI, 1.03 to 1.95). Differential follow-up time contributed to variability in prevalence estimates between survivors treated with older nonconformal and those treated with more contemporary conformal radiation therapy methods. Neurocognitive impairment was significantly associated with lower educational attainment, unemployment, and nonindependent living. CONCLUSION Survivors of pediatric CNS tumors are at risk of severe neurocognitive impairment in adulthood. The prevalence of severe impairment is greater than expected in the general population, even in the absence of CRT, and is associated with disrupted attainment of adult social milestones.
Agenesis of Palmaris Longus Muscle among Selected Ethiopian Students

Background: Palmaris longus muscle has received a growing interest for its role in constructive surgery. Since the agenesis of Palmaris longus shows a strong racial variation, it is important to investigate its distribution on the Ethiopian students and compare the results with others. Methods: a cross sectional descriptive study was conducted in 712 subjects comprising of 504 males and 208 females to assess the distribution of Palmaris longus in the freshman students of Gondar College of Medicine and Health Sciences ,University of Gondar, Ethiopia in 2010. Results: The overall prevalence of absence both unilaterally and bilaterally in the two sexes was 15.3%. The bilateral absence was 8.1%. Unilateral absence was 7.2%. The distribution of unilateral absence on the right and left were 3.5% and 3.7% respectively. In 9 subjects the tendon of Palmaris longus was found duplicated unilaterally. In other ten individuals an overlapping and laterally deviating tendon of Palmaris longus muscle towards the tendon of flexor carpiradialis muscle were observed. Conclusion: Results of this finding suggested that the prevalence of Palmaris longus agenesis is similar as reported in standard anatomy texts but considerably differ from findings obtained from studies that are conducted in other black African populations.
Acute Restraint Stress Increases Intrahypothalamic Oestradiol Concentrations in Conjunction with Increased Hypothalamic Oestrogen Receptor β and Aromatase mRNA Expression in Female Rats

Activation of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis is considered to be one of the key physiological responses to stress and, interestingly, shows a marked sex difference. Oestradiol plays an important role in this sex difference. The present study investigated the systemic and intrahypothalamic oestradiol response to physical restraint stress in female rats. We used jugular catheterisation and intrahypothalamic microdialysis to simultaneously measure plasma oestradiol and local oestradiol concentrations in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus. We also assessed corticotrophin‐releasing hormone (CRH), aromatase, and oestrogen receptor (ER) α and β mRNA expression in the PVN by quantitative polymerase chain reaction immediately after the acute stress period. As expected, PVN CRH mRNA and plasma corticosterone were significantly increased after acute stress. Interestingly, the local oestradiol concentration in the PVN also increased during the 1‐h stress period in pro‐oestrus and in ovariectomised (OVX) animals. Aromatase mRNA expression in the PVN was increased markedly in pro‐oestrus but only modestly in oestrus. PVN ERβ but not ERα mRNA expression was significantly elevated in pro‐oestrous animals. In addition, plasma oestradiol levels increased 10 min after stress, both during pro‐oestrus and oestrus but not in OVX animals. To conclude, we report an intra‐hypothalamic oestradiol response to restraint stress. The rising hypothalamic oestradiol concentration together with increased ERβ gene expression indicates a positive feedback of hypothalamic oestradiol signalling during acute stress in rats.
Evaluation of the Lyra Direct Strep Assay To Detect Group A Streptococcus and Group C and G Beta-Hemolytic Streptococcus from Pharyngeal Specimens

ABSTRACT The Lyra Direct strep assay was compared to culture for its ability to detect Streptococcus group A and β-hemolytic groups C/G using rapid antigen-negative pharyngeal specimens (n = 161). The Lyra assay correctly detected all β-hemolytic streptococci (group A, n = 19; group C/G, n = 5). In batch mode, the Lyra assay reduced intralaboratory turnaround time by 60% (18.1 h versus 45.0 h) but increased hands-on time by 96% (3 min 16 s versus 1 min 40 s per specimen).
Estimating loop-helix interfaces in a polytopic membrane protein by deletion analysis.

Insertions of amino acids into transmembrane helices of polytopic membrane proteins disrupt helix-helix interactions with loss of function, while insertions into loops have little effect on transmembrane helices and therefore little effect on activity [Braun, P., Persson, B. , Kaback, H. R. , and von Heijne, G. (1997) J. Biol. Chem. 272, 29566-29571]. Here the inverse approach, amino acid deletion, is utilized systematically to approximate loop-helix boundaries in the lactose permease of Escherichia coli. Starting with deletion mutants in the periplasmic loop between helices VII and VIII (loop VII/VIII), which has been defined by immunological analysis and nitroxide-scanning electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, it is shown that mutants with single or multiple deletions in the central portion of the loop retain significant transport activity, while deletion of amino acid residues near the loop-helix boundaries or within the flanking helices leads to complete inactivation. Results consistent with hydropathy analysis are obtained with loops VI/VII, VIII/IX, and IX/X and the flanking helices. In contrast, deletion analysis of loops III/IV, IV/V, and V/VI and the flanking helices indicates that this region of the permease differs from hydropathy predictions. More specifically, evidence is presented supporting the contention that Glu126 and Arg144 which are charge paired and critical for substrate binding are within helices IV and V, respectively.