Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comparison of spontaneous recurrent seizures in rats following status epilepticus induced by organophosphate paraoxon, DFP, and sarin

Organophosphate (OP) compounds are highly toxic and include household, industrial, agricultural, and chemical warfare nerve agents (CWNA). OP exposure inhibits acetylcholinesterase enzyme, causing cholinergic overstimulation that can evolve into status epilepticus (SE) and produce lethality. Furthermore, OP-SE survival is associated with mood and memory dysfunction and spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS). Here we assessed hippocampal pathology and chronic SRS following SE induced by OP agents in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with 1.5x LD50 of various OP agents, followed by atropine and 2-PAM. At 1-h post-OP-SE onset, midazolam was administered to control SE. Approximately 6 months following OP-SE, SRS were evaluated using continuous video-EEG monitoring. Histopathology was conducted using Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E), while silver sulfide (Timm) staining was utilized to assess Mossy Fiber Sprouting (MFS). Over 60% of OP-SE surviving rats developed SRS with varying seizure frequencies, durations, and Racine severity scores. H&E staining revealed a significant hippocampal neuronal loss, while Timm staining revealed extensive MFS within the inner molecular region of the dentate gyrus of SRS-expressing OP-SE rats. This study demonstrates that OP-SE is associated with hippocampal neuronal loss, extensive MFS, and SRS, all hallmarks of chronic epilepsy.
Beyond rhythm – A framework for understanding the frequency spectrum of neural activity

Cognitive and behavioral processes are often accompanied by changes within well-defined frequency bands of the local field potential (LFP i.e., the voltage induced by neuronal activity). These changes are detectable in the frequency domain using the Fourier transform and are often interpreted as neuronal oscillations. However, aside some well-known exceptions, the processes underlying such changes are difficult to track in time, making their oscillatory nature hard to verify. In addition, many non-periodic neural processes can also have spectra that emphasize specific frequencies. Thus, the notion that spectral changes reflect oscillations is likely too restrictive. In this study, we propose a simple yet versatile framework to understand the frequency spectra of neural recordings. Using simulations, we derive the Fourier spectra of periodic, quasi-periodic and non-periodic neural processes having diverse waveforms, illustrating how these attributes shape their spectral signatures. We then show how neural processes sum their energy in the local field potential in simulated and real-world recording scenarios. We find that the spectral power of neural processes is essentially determined by two aspects: 1) the distribution of neural events in time and 2) the waveform of the voltage induced by single neural events. Taken together, this work guides the interpretation of the Fourier spectrum of neural recordings and indicates that power increases in specific frequency bands do not necessarily reflect periodic neural activity.
Active density fluctuations in bacterial binary mixtures

In wild environments, physical and biochemical interactions between intermixed motile and sessile microorganisms give rise to spatial organization that is key for the functioning and ecology of complex communities. However, how motility-driven physical interactions contribute to shaping multispecies communities remains little understood. To address this gap, we investigated model binary mixtures of motile and non-motile Escherichia coli bacteria. We discovered a new type of non-equilibrium self-organization, wherein large-scale density fluctuations of non-motile bacteria emerge when mixed with motile ones under physiologically relevant conditions. Systematically exploring the phase diagram in microfluidics experiments and combining them with modeling and simulations, we uncovered the two-pronged physical mechanism of emergence: Circular swimming of motile cells close to surfaces generates recirculating hydrodynamic flows that advect non-motile cells, while sedimentation, by breaking the vertical symmetry, is essential for their local accumulation. This active self-organization behavior in mixed bacterial populations appears crucial for complex microbial community structuration.
Elevated nuclear TDP-43 induces constitutive exon skipping

Cytoplasmic inclusions and loss of nuclear TDP-43 are key pathological features found in several neurodegenerative disorders, suggesting both gain- and loss-of-function mechanisms of disease. To study gain-of-function, TDP-43 overexpression has been used to generate in vitro and in vivo model systems. Our study shows that excessive levels of nuclear TDP-43 protein lead to constitutive exon skipping that is largely species-specific. Furthermore, while aberrant exon skipping is detected in some human brains, it is not correlated with disease, unlike the incorporation of cryptic exons that occurs after loss of TDP-43. Our findings emphasize the need for caution in interpreting TDP-43 overexpression data, and stress the importance of controlling for exon skipping when generating models of TDP-43 proteinopathy. Understanding the subtle aspects of TDP-43 toxicity within different subcellular locations is essential for the development of therapies targeting neurodegenerative disease.
Brussels Sprouts and Cloves

Sprouts is a well-known 2-person pen-and-paper game; see [20], [18], [9], [15], [12, Chap. 37], and the World Game of Sprouts Association Web site [19]. One starts with an agreed number of dots on the page. A move in this game is played by connecting two (possibly equal) dots by a simple curve (carefully avoiding any other dot) and introducing a new dot on the middle of the curve. There are only two rules: 1. no two curves can cross,
Observations of the Hubble Deep Field with the Infrared Space Observatory - III. Source counts and P(D) analysis

We present source counts at 6.7 and 15 μm from our maps of the Hubble Deep Field (HDF) region, reaching 38.6 μJy at 6.7 μm and 255 μJy at 15 μm. These are the first ever extragalactic number counts to be presented at 6.7 μm, and are three decades fainter than IRAS at 12 μm. Both source counts and a P(D) analysis suggest that we have reached the Infrared Space Observatory (ISO) confusion limit at 15 μrn; this will have important implications for future space missions. These data provide an excellent reference point for other ongoing ISO surveys. A no-evolution model at 15 μrn is ruled out at > 3σ, while two models which fit the steep IRAS 60-μm counts are acceptable. This provides important confirmation of the strong evolution seen in IRAS surveys. One of these models can then be ruled out from the 6.7-μm data.
Active learning-based systematic reviewing using switching classification models: the case of the onset, maintenance, and relapse of depressive disorders

Introduction This study examines the performance of active learning-aided systematic reviews using a deep learning-based model compared to traditional machine learning approaches, and explores the potential benefits of model-switching strategies. Methods Comprising four parts, the study: 1) analyzes the performance and stability of active learning-aided systematic review; 2) implements a convolutional neural network classifier; 3) compares classifier and feature extractor performance; and 4) investigates the impact of model-switching strategies on review performance. Results Lighter models perform well in early simulation stages, while other models show increased performance in later stages. Model-switching strategies generally improve performance compared to using the default classification model alone. Discussion The study's findings support the use of model-switching strategies in active learning-based systematic review workflows. It is advised to begin the review with a light model, such as Naïve Bayes or logistic regression, and switch to a heavier classification model based on a heuristic rule when needed.
Anesthetics inhibit phosphorylation of the ribosomal protein S6 in mouse cultured cortical cells and developing brain

Introduction The development and maintenance of neural circuits is highly sensitive to neural activity. General anesthetics have profound effects on neural activity and, as such, there is concern that these agents may alter cellular integrity and interfere with brain wiring, such as when exposure occurs during the vulnerable period of brain development. Under those conditions, exposure to anesthetics in clinical use today causes changes in synaptic strength and number, widespread apoptosis, and long-lasting cognitive impairment in a variety of animal models. Remarkably, most anesthetics produce these effects despite having differing receptor mechanisms of action. We hypothesized that anesthetic agents mediate these effects by inducing a shared signaling pathway. Methods We exposed cultured cortical cells to propofol, etomidate, or dexmedetomidine and assessed the protein levels of dozens of signaling molecules and post-translational modifications using reverse phase protein arrays. To probe the role of neural activity, we performed separate control experiments to alter neural activity with non-anesthetics. Having identified anesthetic-induced changes in vitro, we investigated expression of the target proteins in the cortex of sevoflurane anesthetized postnatal day 7 mice by Western blotting. Results All the anesthetic agents tested in vitro reduced phosphorylation of the ribosomal protein S6, an important member of the mTOR signaling pathway. We found a comparable decrease in cortical S6 phosphorylation by Western blotting in sevoflurane anesthetized neonatal mice. Using a systems approach, we determined that propofol, etomidate, dexmedetomidine, and APV/TTX all similarly modulate a signaling module that includes pS6 and other cell mediators of the mTOR-signaling pathway. Discussion Reduction in S6 phosphorylation and subsequent suppression of the mTOR pathway may be a common and novel signaling event that mediates the impact of general anesthetics on neural circuit development.
A mini-review on the emerging role of nanotechnology in revolutionizing orthopedic surgery: challenges and the road ahead

An emerging application of nanotechnology in medicine currently being developed involves employing nanoparticles to deliver drugs, heat, light, or other substances to specific types of cells (such as cancer cells). As most biological molecules exist and function at the nanoscale, engineering and manipulating matter at the molecular level has many advantages in the field of medicine (nanomedicine). Although encouraging, it remains unclear how much of this will ultimately result in improved patient care. In surgical specialties, clinically relevant nanotechnology applications include the creation of surgical instruments, suture materials, imaging, targeted drug therapy, visualization methods, and wound healing techniques. Burn lesion and scar management is an essential nanotechnology application. Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of numerous orthopedic conditions are crucial technological aspects for patients’ functional recovery. Orthopedic surgery is a specialty that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. In recent years, the field of orthopedics has been revolutionized by the advent of nanotechnology. Using biomaterials comprised of nanoparticles and structures, it is possible to substantially enhance the efficacy of such interactions through nanoscale material modifications. This serves as the foundation for the majority of orthopedic nanotechnology applications. In orthopedic surgery, nanotechnology has been applied to improve surgical outcomes, enhance bone healing, and reduce complications associated with orthopedic procedures. This mini-review summarizes the present state of nanotechnology in orthopedic surgery, including its applications as well as possible future directions.
Efficient adeno-associated virus serotype 5 capture with affinity functionalized nanofiber adsorbents

Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are one of the most promising tools for gene therapy applications. These vectors are purified using affinity and ion exchange chromatography, typically using packed beds of resin adsorbents. This leads to diffusion and pressure drop limitations that affect process productivity. Due to their high surface area and porosity, electrospun nanofiber adsorbents offer mass transfer and flow rate advantages over conventional chromatographic media. The present work investigated the use of affinity cellulose-based nanofiber adsorbents for adeno-associated virus serotype 5 (AAV5) capture, evaluating dynamic binding capacity, pressure drop, and AAV5 recovery at residence times (RT) less than 5 s. The dynamic binding capacity was found to be residence time-dependent, but nevertheless higher than 1.0 × 1014 TP mL−1 (RT = 1.6 s), with a pressure drop variation of 0.14 MPa obtained after loading more than 2,000 column volumes of clarified AAV5 feedstock. The single affinity chromatography purification step using these new affinity adsorbents resulted in 80% virus recovery, with the removal of impurities comparable to that of bead-based affinity adsorbents. The high binding capacity, virus recovery and reduced pressure drop observed at residence times in the sub-minute range can potentially eliminate the need for prior concentration steps, thereby reducing the overall number of unit operations, process time and costs.
Preparation, structure characterization and functional properties of pea dregs resistant dextrin

Background Peas (Pisum sativum L.), the second largest edible bean in the world, have comprehensive and balanced nutrition. In China, peas are mainly used in the processing of starch and related products, during which a large amount of processing by-products—pea dregs—is produced. Because of its large particle size, coarse texture, and difficulty in storage, it is mostly discarded or used as feed, resulting in unnecessary waste. Materials and methods The preparation and simulated moving bed chromatographic purification process conditions of pea-resistant dextrin were optimized using pea production waste-pea residue as raw material, and structural characterization and functional properties of pea residue-resistant dextrin were analyzed. Results The results showed that the optimal preparation process conditions for pea-resistant dextrin were as follows: acid concentration 1.0%, acid addition 7.3%, treatment temperature 178.8°C, and treatment time 92.5 min. Subsequently, the pea-resistant dextrin content of 42.15 ± 0.16% was obtained. The optimal SSMB purification conditions were as follows: feed volume 455 g/h, feed volume 682 g/h, circulation volume 346 mL, outlet concentration 24.8 ± 0.2%, purity 99.35 ± 0.17%, and yield 91.08 ± 0.42%. The structural characterization revealed that pea-resistant dextrin had large and variable particle size and amorphous structure; the chemical bond or functional group differences between pea-resistant dextrin and pea starch were not significant; pea-resistant dextrin was a glucose-based dextran with a monosaccharide composition of 2.6% arabinose, 1.5% xylose, and 95.9% glucose, and its molecular weight was (601.1 ± 8.5) × 103 u. Functional characterization revealed that the RS content of pea-resistant dextrin was 92.35%, which had significantly slow digestive properties as well as hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects. Conclusions Using pea dregs to produce pea dregs resistant dextrin has low production cost and significant functional characteristics, which can be widely applied in the food industry.
Syrians of today, Germans of tomorrow: the effect of initial placement on the political interest of Syrian refugees in Germany

Syrian nationals are not only the largest refugee group in Germany but also the third largest group of foreigners living in Germany. The naturalization trend among this group has been very pronounced in the last two years and is expected to increase sharply in the coming years. However, little is known about their political interest in German politics.1 Given the importance of “political interest” as an indicator of social integration and future active citizenship, this paper examines the extent to which Syrian refugees are interested in German politics and how local conditions at the time of arrival influence refugees' interest in German politics. We focus on three dimensions of the neighborhood context theory (social networks, economic situation, and political environment) in combination with traditional political participation theory. The empirical strategy relies on the exogenous allocation of refugees across federal states, which can be used to identify the effect of local characteristics on refugees' political interest. We use in our analysis a nationally representative sample in Germany (IAB-BAMF-SOEP-Refugee-Sample). Our findings suggest that ethnic social networks play a significant role in boosting newly arrived refugees' interest in German politics. Moreover, a higher unemployment rate among the foreign population is associated with an increase in political interest among Syrian refugees. We also confirm that a high political interest among the native population in Germany leads to a higher political interest among Syrian refugees. These results show that more attention needs to be paid to the integration of Syrian refugees and underline the need to reassess the efficiency of the distribution policy for Syrian refugees.
Exploring the variables influencing the immune response of traditional and innovative glycoconjugate vaccines

Vaccines are cost-effective tools for reducing morbidity and mortality caused by infectious diseases. The rapid evolution of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines, the introduction of tetravalent meningococcal conjugate vaccines, mass vaccination campaigns in Africa with a meningococcal A conjugate vaccine, and the recent licensure and introduction of glycoconjugates against S. Typhi underlie the continued importance of research on glycoconjugate vaccines. More innovative ways to produce carbohydrate-based vaccines have been developed over the years, including bioconjugation, Outer Membrane Vesicles (OMV) and the Multiple antigen-presenting system (MAPS). Several variables in the design of these vaccines can affect the induced immune responses. We review immunogenicity studies comparing conjugate vaccines that differ in design variables, such as saccharide chain length and conjugation chemistry, as well as carrier protein and saccharide to protein ratio. We evaluate how a better understanding of the effects of these different parameters is key to designing improved glycoconjugate vaccines.
Multi-omics data analysis supporting inheritance of acquired traits in humans

Experimental evidence supports presence of germline mediated nongenetic inheritance in animals including mammalian models. Observational and molecular epidemiological studies also suggest existence of environmental exposure induced germline inheritance in humans. Considering the obvious difficulties in conducting prospective cross-generational human studies, integrative analysis of available multi-omics data may seem to offer a valuable approach for assessing biological plausibility of inheritance of acquired traits in the species. To that end, the concept has mainly been tested here that, under the assumption of inheritance, human exposure to an environmental factor, if known to induce paternal inheritance in mammalian models and to act through molecular pathways conserved across species, would induce correlated changes in sperm epigenome and somatic transcriptome in the exposed subjects. The test is based on physical exercise, a physiologically relevant factor for which multiple datasets of human sperm DNA methylome and somatic transcriptome from interventional pre-post cohort studies, that minimizes inter-individual variability, were available. Existing somatic transcriptome datasets from animal model studies on exercise have been used for comparison. To control the analysis, bariatric surgery, for which exercise matched human datasets existed, have been used. The hypothesis testing involves gene set overrepresentation, comparison between directionality of epigenome and coding transcriptome changes, gene ontology enrichment, and epigenome and non-coding transcriptome interaction. Remarkably, the results show that, in humans, exercise induced DNA methylation changes in sperm specifically represent transcriptional response to exercise in soma. This germline epigenomic encoding of acquired transcriptome changes in soma clearly supports biological plausibility of epigenetic inheritance in humans.
Case Report: A case of Chlamydia psittaci infection in an HIV patient

Chlamydia psittaci is the pathogen of psittacosis and infects a wide range of birds and even humans. Human infection occurs most commonly in those with a history of contact with birds or poultry. We describe a case of psittacosis in a human immunodeficiency virus infected patient in Zhejiang Province for the first time. C. psittaci infection was confirmed by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Real-Time PCR. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the sequences from the patient’s samples clustered with genotype A in the same branch. Our study highlights the possibility of diagnosing psittacosis in patients with a chronic disease such as HIV-infected patients, and should increase awareness and surveillance of psittacosis in China.