Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Role of Anthocyanidin Reductase, Encoded by BANYULS in Plant Flavonoid Biosynthesis

Condensed tannins (CTs) are flavonoid oligomers, many of which have beneficial effects on animal and human health. The flavanol (–)-epicatechin is a component of many CTs and contributes to flavor and astringency in tea and wine. We show that the BANYULS(BAN) genes from Arabidopsis thaliana andMedicago truncatula encode anthocyanidin reductase, which converts anthocyanidins to their corresponding 2,3-cis-flavan-3-ols. Ectopic expression of BAN in tobacco flower petals and Arabidopsis leaves results in loss of anthocyanins and accumulation of CTs.
Anaphylactoid Reaction Caused by Intravenous Doxycycline during General Anesthesia and β-Blockade Treatment

A 71-year-old woman with icterus was treated with doxycycline orally for one week. She then was admitted for an exploratory laparotomy under general anesthesia with barbiturate, pancuronium, fentanyl, and nitrous oxide. She developed rapid atrial fibrillation and received digitoxin and β-blockade. Thirty minutes after her last medication she received doxycycline 100 mg in 200 ml sodium chloride 0.9% infused over five to ten minutes. Soon after the completed infusion, she developed a severe anaphylactoid reaction with bronchospasm, hypotension, and generalized urticaria, which was treated successfully with ephedrine, aminophylline, hydrocortisone, furosemide, metaraminol, ketamine, and epinephrine. The possibility of β-blockade treatment worsening the reaction is discussed and five other reports of anaphylactoid reactions to intravenous doxycycline are mentioned.
Functional effects of the inhibition of the cysteine protease activity of the major house dust mite allergen Der p 1 by a novel peptide‐based inhibitor

The house dust mite (HDM) Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus is an important source of allergens, which can cause allergic conditions. The cysteine protease activity of Der p 1 may enhance the potency of this major mite allergen through cleavage of CD23 and CD25 from the surface of immune cells, IgE independent mast cell activation, increases in epithelial cell permeability and inactivation of an endogenous serine protease inhibitor. Inhibition of the enzymatic activity of Der p 1 may therefore be of therapeutic benefit.
Two subtypes of adolescent suicide attempters

An empirical classification of 203 adolescent suicide attempters (mean age 17.3) was achieved using multiple correspondence analysis. The characteristics upon which the classification is based concern sociodemographic as well as psychological variables. Two groups are identified: the first is predominantly characterized by recent problematic behaviors, whereas the second group is primarily characterized by problematic circumstances. Analyzing related variables, the first group seems to have special clinical and preventive interest, because of its high risk for recidivism. The second group seems to have a satisfactory level of functioning.
Effect of Applied Magnetic Field Direction on Magnetic Cluster State of Perpendicular Recording Media

We investigated influence of applied magnetic field direction on magnetic cluster state of perpendicular recording media. As a result, cluster size estimated from MFM images did not change as the applied field angle changed. On the other hand, it was clarified that the stray field from the media decreased as the applied field angle from the perpendicular direction increased. The decrease of the stray field is presumed to originate from magnetic cluster including subdomains less than MFM resolution.
Many Nonmammalian Cells Exhibit Postentry Blocks to Transduction by Gammaretroviruses Pseudotyped with Various Viral Envelopes, Including Vesicular Stomatitis Virus G Glycoprotein

ABSTRACT Previous studies have suggested that Moloney murine leukemia virus (MoMLV)-based vectors pseudotyped with the vesicular stomatitis virus G glycoprotein (VSV-G) have extensive ability to transduce nonmammalian cells. However, we have identified multiple cell lines from fish (FHM), mosquitoes (Mos-55), moths (Sf9 and High-5), flies (S2), and frogs (XPK2) that are not efficiently transduced by MoMLV-based vectors pseudotyped with many different viral envelope proteins, including VSV-G, while the same vectors are functional in these cells following transfection. A comparison of MoMLV-based vector transduction in mammalian and nonmammalian cells shows that the nonmammalian cells exhibit blocks at either entry, reverse transcription, or integration. Additionally, VSV-G-pseudotyped MoMLV-based vector transduction is attenuated in the zebrafish cell line ZF4 at entry and/or reverse transcription, whereas other transduction processes are unaffected. We show that the variation of transduction by MoMLV-based vectors in mammalian and nonmammalian cells is not due to differences in culture conditions or cell division rate but is likely the result of divergence in cellular factors required for retroviral transduction.
Image Retrieval Based on Dominant Color and Texture Features in DCT Domain

Most of the existing Content Based Image Retrieval algorithms are implemented in spatial domain. In order to save the time in images decompression, a novel image retrieval based on DCT dominant color and texture features in compressed domain is proposed. The mean value and variance of the DCT coefficients in DCT sub-blocks are used to describe image features. The mean values of those DCT sub-blocks with smaller variances than the threshold are regarded as the dominant colors and used to construct the image index, and we extract the texture feature from the DCT sub-blocks with larger variance than the threshold. The experimental results demonstrate the algorithm has good performance.
Detection of antibodies to a linear epitope on the major coat protein (L1) of human papillomavirus type‐16 (HPV‐16) in sera from patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and children

Antibodies to the major (L1) coat protein of human papilloma‐ virus type 16 (HPV‐16) in sera from patients with cervical intra‐epithelial neoplasia (CIN) have been investigated by means of recombinant proteins and synthetic peptides. When L1‐ HPV‐16 fusion proteins were used in immunoblot assays, no antibody reactivity was found in sera from 52 patients with CIN or from 21 unrelated children. Amino‐acid sequence analyses indicated that L1‐HPV‐16 amino acids 473 to 492 may contain an HPV‐16 type‐restricted epitope since the greatest diversity occurs in this region. In the ELISA, seropositivity to peptides 473 to 492 was more common among CIN patients whose biopsies contained HPV‐16 DNA (91%, 21 of 23) than among their children (24%, 5 of 21; p < 0.001) or other CIN patients with HPV‐16 DNA‐negative biopsies (66%, 19 of 29; p < 0.05), but was unrelated to the severity of the CIN lesion. Antibodies to L1‐HPV‐16 peptide 473 to 492 among seropositive CIN patients cross‐reacted with the analagous L1‐HPV‐33, but not with the L1‐HPV‐6b peptide, and were predominantly IgM. In contrast, antibodies which recognized a less variable region of L1 ‐HPV‐16 (amino acids 279 to 293) showed no association with HPV‐16 DNA status. Seropositivity to the L1‐HPV‐6b (amino acids 473–492) was less frequent (33%) among CIN patients and unassociated with HPV‐16 DNA status (p > 0.1); however 51% (37 of 72) of patients with genital warts had antibodies to this peptide.
Do Moonlighting Proteins Belong to the Intrinsically Disordered Protein Class

Moonlighting is the capability of some proteins to execute two or more biological functions. According to some authors, there is a relationship between protein conformational fluctuations and promiscuous functions of proteins. This promiscuity would be due to the conformational properties of the structurally disordered regions. To check if moonlighting proteins belong to the Intrinsically Disordered Protein (IDP) class, we have predicted IDP/IDR (Intrinsically Disordered Regions) for a number of moonlighting proteins. Our results suggest that most moonlighting proteins do not belong to the IDP class.
Object detection and path finding using monocular vision

This project consists of a prototype of an autonomous robot that picks up the desired object (red can) solely based on camera vision. A robotic clamp and a camera are mounted on it. All the information is transferred wirelessly up to distances of 100 ft. The processing of the image is done on an external computer using software like OpenCV, Python and Microsoft Visual Studio. Using samples and regression analysis, the distance of any pixel and the width of any object can be found. After obstacle detection, a suitable path is chosen. All movement is controlled by PIC microcontroller with the help of RF transmitter-receiver modules. It is best suited for non-textured, flat surfaces with little or no movement in the foreground.
Development of a Mobile EEG-Based Feature Extraction and Classification System for Biometric Authentication

The aim of this work is to investigate the possibilities to build a mobile biometric authentication system based on electroencephalogram (EEG). The objectives of this work include the investigation and identification of the most feasible feature extraction techniques and how these features can be used for authentication purposes. Therefore, we review the relevant literature, conduct several EEG measurement experiments and discuss their procedure and results with experts in the EEG and digital signal processing (DSP) fields. After gaining enough knowledge on the feature extraction and classification techniques and proposing the most applicable ones for our problem, we build and present a mobile prototype system capable of authenticating users based on the uniqueness of their brain-waves. Furthermore, we implement a novel authentication process, which leads the authentication system to be more secure. We also assess the usability of the system and define possible usage scenarios and propose a number of practical suggestions for future improvements of the system.
Problem‐based learning: why curricula are likely to show little effect on knowledge and clinical skills

A recent review of problem‐based learning’s effect on knowledge and clinical skills updated findings reported in 1993. The author argues that effect sizes (ES) seen with PBL have not lived up to expectations (0.8–1.0) and the theoretical basis for PBL, contextual learning theory, is weak. The purposes of this study were to analyse what constitutes reasonable ES in terms of the impacts on individuals and published reports, and to elaborate upon various theories pertaining to PBL.
Learning to lead: Self‐ and peer evaluation of team leaders in the human structure didactic block

Increasing emphasis on leadership in medical education has created a need for developing accurate evaluations of team leaders. Our study aimed to compare the accuracy of self‐ and peer evaluation of student leaders in the first‐year Human Structure block (integrated gross anatomy, embryology, and radiology). Forty‐nine first‐year medical students at Mayo Medical School were assigned to learning teams of three or four members. Teams worked together on daily laboratory dissection, clinical projects, embryology presentations, and daily group quizzes. Student team leaders were responsible for leading laboratory dissection, reviewing radiographic findings, and organizing group assignments. Weekly electronic surveys were administered to evaluate team leaders on altruism, compassion, respect, integrity, responsibility, commitment to excellence, and self‐reflection. Results demonstrated that team leaders rated themselves lower than their peers rated them in multiple aspects of leadership. Peer evaluation of team leaders was statistically higher than self‐evaluation in all traits measured except respect. Female leaders were rated higher by their peers in the areas of responsibility and self‐reflection compared to male leaders. This study demonstrates the need for increased communication between team leaders and members, along with creation of a mutually respectful environment, to improve leader awareness of their abilities and foster team success. Anat Sci Educ 2:210–217, 2009. © 2009 American Association of Anatomists.
I–V curves and visual inspection of 250 PV modules deployed over 2 years in tucson

To study degradation of PV systems, we measured current-voltage (I-V) curves from 250 modules that have been deployed in grid-tied systems for 2 to 12 years in Arizona. We also documented visual signs of weathering. The I-V curves exhibit a variety of imperfections and considerable dispersion of Pmax values. Although many of these modules appear weathered, we found few significant correlations between visible signs of weathering and lower Pmax values, and the most degraded modules have no correlation between visual defects and performance. This indicates that important forms of degradation can remain hidden to the eye.
Guar gum and reduction of post-prandial glycaemia: effect of incorporation into solid food, liquid food, and both

1. The influence of the dose and the form in which guar gum was given on the degree of ‘flattening’of blood glucose curves was studied in five subjects using meals of bread and soup containing 5 or 10 g guar gum. 2. When 5 g guar gum was added to bread the peak increase of blood glucose was reduced by 41% (P < 0.002), with 5 g guar in soup, the reduction was 54% (P < 0.001) while a reduction of 68% (P < 0.001) was seen with 10 g guar gum (5 g in bread and 5 g in soup). The corresponding reduction in insulin peak increases were 37% (P < 0.002), 50% (P < 0.001) and 65% (P < 0.001) respectively. 3. The difference between the two 5 g doses was not significant with respect to the reduction of the peak increases in blood glucose and serum insulin; however the difference between the 5 g dose in bread and the increases in blood glucose and serum insulin; however the difference between the 5 g dose in bread and the 10 g dose was significantly different (P < 0.002 for glucose, P < 0.01 for insulin). 4. The results indicate that as little as 5 g guar gum may reduce the glycaemia following a 45 g carbohydrate meal, but perhaps due to earlier and more complete mixing, guar gum is most effective when added to the liquid phase of the meal.
CTLA-4 and PD-1/PD-L1 Blockade: New Immunotherapeutic Modalities with Durable Clinical Benefit in Melanoma Patients

Immune checkpoint blockade with monoclonal antibodies directed at the inhibitory immune receptors CTLA-4, PD-1, and PD-L1 has emerged as a successful treatment approach for patients with advanced melanoma. Ipilimumab is the first agent associated with a documented improved overall survival benefit in this patient population. A striking attribute of CTLA-4 blockade is the durability of objective responses, leading to speculation of a possible cure for some patients. Many tumor responses achieved with PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibition were durable in the phase I trials and were seen in a higher proportion of patients with melanoma than typically observed with ipilimumab. Biomarker development to identify the subset of patients with melanoma who will achieve durable clinical benefit with checkpoint blockade is critical; tumor PD-L1 expression has been promising in early studies. The contrast between unprecedented response rates but limited durability of responses achieved with BRAF and MEK inhibition in BRAFV600-mutated melanoma and the impressive durability but relatively low rate of response achieved with immune checkpoint blockade is striking. Preclinical data on potential synergies between CTLA-4/PD-1/PD-L1 inhibition and MAPK-targeted therapy is emerging, and combined immune checkpoint blockade and MAPK inhibition are being explored in clinical trials. Other promising approaches to increase the number of patients with melanoma who benefit from durable responses with immune checkpoint blockade include concurrent or sequenced CTLA-4 and PD-1/PD-L1 inhibition and combination with other immunotherapeutic strategies. Clin Cancer Res; 19(19); 5300–9. ©2013 AACR.
Focal thyroid incidental uptake detected by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography

Summary Aim: To perform a meta-analysis of published data on the prevalence and risk of malignancy of focal thyroid incidental uptake (FTIs) detected by Fluorine-18-Fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) or PET/CT. Methods: A comprehensive literature search of studies published up to and including December 2012 was performed. Pooled prevalence and malignancy risk of FTIs were calculated, including a sub-analysis for the geographic areas of origin of the studies. Results: 34 studies including 215 057 patients were selected. Pooled prevalence of FTIs was 1.92% (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.87–1.99%). Overall, 1522 FTIs underwent histopathology evaluation. Pooled risk of malignancy was 36.2% (95%CI: 33.8–38.6%), without significant differences among various geographic areas. Conclusions: FTIs are observed in about 2% of 18F-FDG-PET or PET/CT scans and carry a significant risk of malignancy. Therefore, further investigation is warranted whenever FTIs are detected by 18F-FDG-PET or PET/CT.
The Diagnostic and Prognostic Significance of Serum Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin Levels in Patients with Colorectal Cancer.

AIM OF THE STUDY Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is an inflammatory biomarker that is stored in neutrophil granules. Recent studies revealed that NGAL expression increases in tissue samples of patients with inflammatory gastrointestinal system diseases and cancers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic and predictive significance of plasma NGAL levels in various stages of adenoma-carcinoma sequence of colorectal cancer. Materials and Methods: Eighty cases were included in the study and separated into 3 groups. "Cancer Group" consisted of 27 colorectal cancer patients who underwent curative resection, whereas 24 patients with colorectal adenomatous polyps detected by colonoscopy were classified as the "Polyp Group", and 29 patients with normal colonoscopy findings were classified as the "Control Group". The serum NGAL, CEA and CA19-9 levels and histopathology findings were determined. Results: The mean plasma NGAL levels for control group, polyp group and cancer group were found to be 91.5 ng/ml, 139.6ng/ml and 184.3ng/ml, respectively. Plasma NGAL levels were found to be significantly higher in cancer group compared to the control group (p:0.006). Plasma NGAL levels were detected statistically significant and positive correlated with tumor diameter and number of metastatic lymph nodes (p:0.047, r:%38.6 and p:0.026, r:%42.8, respectively) in cancer group. Conclusions: We are of the opinion that pre-operative plasma NGAL level is a potential diagnostic biomarker for colorectal cancer patients. Although more comprehensive studies are needed for definitive judgments, serum NGAL levels may be used as a diagnostic and/or predictive biomarker for lymph node metastasis in patients with colorectal cancer.
Tolerance to noninherited maternal antigens in mice and humans

Purpose of reviewExposure to noninherited maternal antigens (NIMAs) in fetal and neonatal life has life-long immunological consequences. Although there is a plethora of evidence of effects of mother on the immune responses of her offspring, there is very little knowledge available on how exposure to NIMA can result in either tolerance or sensitization. Understanding the mechanism of NIMA effects will impact different fields of immunology including transplantation, autoimmunity, and tumor immunotherapy. Recent findingsFollowing the discoveries of beneficial effects of NIMA exposure on clinical outcomes in solid organ and bone marrow transplantation, it has now been shown that the exposure to NIMA induces various types of T regulatory (TR) cells in fetus and adult, which may partially account for tolerance to allografts bearing the NIMA. Although all offspring are exposed to the maternal antigens, they exhibit a great variability in the NIMA effects, which can be explained by the variability in the extent of maternal microchimerism (MMc). SummaryExposure to NIMA can have tolerogenic or sensitizing effects on the offspring, resulting in acceptance or rejection of allografts expressing the NIMA. This variability may be partly explained by the level and distribution of maternal cells persisting in the offspring.
Health Education Intervention on Knowledge and Practices about reproductive health among Adolescent Females Students

Health Education Intervention on Knowledge and Practices about reproductive health among Adolescent Females Students Author Eman Elsayed Mohammed Elsabagh Assistant Professor of Obstetric and Gynecology Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Zagazig University, Egypt Email: eman_plus_2010@yahoomail.com Abstract Adolescence is the most important period of one’s Life. It is a fundamental component of an individual's overall health status and a central determinant of quality of life. Aims of the study: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of health education intervention on knowledge and practice about reproductive health among adolescent females students. Research Design: A quasi-experimental design was utilized for this study. Setting: The study was conducted in Nursing College at Taibah University (Saudi Arabia). Sample a purposive sample was chosen the study comprised of 150 adolescent females students. Tools: Two tools were used in the study, Tool (1): It was consisted of three parts; First part: Included demographic characteristics Second part; History about reproductive profile. Third part; sources of their information about reproductive health items Tool (2): It was consisted of two parts: Part one assessment knowledge of adolescent females about reproductive health. Part two assessment practice of adolescent females about reproductive health. Results: The overall increase in adequate knowledge improved from 21.3 to 82.7% after the education intervention, with a highly statistically significant difference (p<0.0001). The overall increase in adequate practices improved from 47.3 to 86.7% after the intervention, with a significant difference (p<0.0001). \ Conclusion: The present study had revealed low level of knowledge and practice about reproductive health among adolescent females. The study also clearly pointed out the impact of health education in improving their knowledge and practice. Recommendation: The study recommended that further education intervention for adolescent females should be applied in all health care centers. Development of in-service training programs for health care providers who take care of adolescent girls about issues related to reproductive health.