Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Changes in the gastric mucosa following eradication of Helicobacter pylori.

Although most studies reporting on the examination of Helicobacter pylori infection have focused on the clearance of the bacteria and the rapid disappearance of the neutrophil infiltrates, the evolution of inflammatory and architectural changes in the antral and corporal mucosa following the eradication of H. pylori has not been addressed systematically. This study examines in detail the histopathologic appearance of the antral and corporal mucosa in a group of patients infected with H. pylori and follows the spectrum of morphologic changes in each of them after the eradication of the infection. At least 11 biopsies ("gastric mapping") were obtained from the antrum and body of each of 15 patients with H. pylori. Complete mapping was then repeated 1, 4, and 10 to 12 mo after the eradication of H. pylori by a course of "triple therapy. " Each biopsy was assessed in a semi-quantitative fashion for presence of H. pylori, neutrophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes, lymphoid follicles, and intestinal metaplasia. Other features (integrity of surface epithelium, architecture, fibrosis) were evaluated descriptively. Results were compared with those obtained from a control group of 16 uninfected, healthy adult volunteers. H. pylori infection was eradicated in 11 subjects. The disappearance of neutrophils and the normalization of the surface epithelium closely paralleled that of H. pylori. Persistence of even small numbers of neutrophils was a predictor of relapse. Eosinophils and lymphocytes decreased slowly and did not return to normal levels within 1 yr. Lymphoid follicles decreased very slowly in all patients but were still present in all gastric locations at one year after treatment. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Critical multicast

While the importance of protecting the confidentiality of sensitive cybernetic communications is widely recognized, the importance of ensuring the trustworthiness of information that is public yet critical is perhaps less obvious. Critical non-confidential messages must be issued by a trusted authoritative source in order to serve as the basis for operational decisions, but while existing authentication mechanisms can guard against tampering with the messages from such a source they cannot defend against compromise of the source itself. A public key infrastructure developed for Delay-Tolerant Networking addresses this problem. Its design might serve as the basis for a general “Critical Multicast” technology, ensuring that vital yet non-confidential information received via the network is genuine.
O C ] 1 6 O ct 2 01 4 No-Free-Lunch Theorems in the Continuum Aureli

No-Free-Lunch Theorems state, roughly speaking, that the performance of all search algorithms is the same when averaged over all possible objective functions. This fact was precisely formulated for the first time in a now famous paper by Wolpert and Macready, and then subsequently refined and extended by several authors, always in the context of a set of functions with discrete domain and codomain. Recently, Auger and Teytaud have shown that for continuum domains there is typically no No-Free-Lunch theorems. In this paper we provide another approach, which is simpler, requires less assumptions, relates the discrete and continuum cases, and that we believe that clarifies the role of the cardinality and structure of the domain.
An Iterative Partitioning-Based Method for Semi-Supervised Annotation Learning in Image Collections

Labeling images is tedious and a costly work that is required for many applications, for example, tagging, grouping and exploring of image collections. It is also necessary for training visual classifiers that recognize scenes or objects. It is therefore desirable to either reduce the human effort or infer additional knowledge by addressing this task with algorithms that allow for learning image annotations in a semi-supervised manner. In this paper, a semi-supervised annotation learning algorithm is introduced that is based on partitioning the data in a multi-view approach. The method is applied to large, diverse image collections of natural scene images. Experiments are performed on the 15 Scenes and SUN databases. It is shown that for sparsely labeled datasets the proposed annotation learning algorithm is able to infer additional knowledge from the unlabeled samples and therefore improve the performance of visual classifiers in comparison to supervised learning. Furthermore, the proposed algorithm outperforms other related semi-supervised learning approaches.
SELECTIVE BINDING OF ZINC BY BASIC PROTEINS OF THE HELA CELL NUCLEOLUS

Treatment of ethanol-fixed HeLa cells with solutions containing zinc ions results in marked retention of zinc by the nucleolus. Subsequent exposure to dithizone results in selective staining of the nucleolus with visualization of some of its internal structure. Free amino groups of protein are shown to be chiefly responsible for binding of the zinc, but the imidazole rings of histidine residues may also play a part in zinc retention. High concentrations of protein-bound amino groups can be demonstrated by the ninhydrin-Schiff or the hydroxynaphthaldehyde methods to have a distribution in the HeLa cell nucleolus similar to the sites of marked zinc retention, and the Pauly reaction shows that imidazole groups of histidine are concentrated in the nucleolus in a similar fashion. The zinc-binding protein is acid extractable and it is suggested that this protein may represent a product of the nucleolus with functions in other parts of the cell, where the reactive basic groups are masked by linkages to acidic groups, perhaps of nucleic acids.
Electroactive Shape-Fixing of Bucky-Gel Actuators

Electromechanically active polymers (EAP) behave as actuators, i.e., temporarily change their shape when subjected to electric stimulus. However, in applications where a steady state of an actuator is required for an extended period of time (e.g., displaying characters of Braille text), EAPs need an active driving signal. Shape memory polymers, on the other hand, can be fixed to a preferred shape using appropriate stimuli such as temperature change and mechanical stress. Combining the electromechanical properties with the shape memory functionality could increase the efficiency and utility of EAP materials. As bucky-gel actuators--a subtype of EAPs--have been reported to possess a quite characteristic viscoelastic response, this paper proposes to implement them as shape-fixable EAPs. We employ four different shape-fixing techniques, out of which two allow programming the bucky-gel actuator in a controlled direction without any external stress or temperature change. These shape-fixing methods utilize composite driving signal consisting of high-frequency section to generate Joule heating within the material while low-frequency rectangular component deforms the bucky-gel laminate. It is concluded that bucky-gel actuators can achieve steady deformation by using solely the electrical input. By using the proposed methods for adding the shape-fixing functionality to an existing EAP device, no constructional changes of the system are required.
Emergency room triage of patients with acute chest pain by means of rapid testing for cardiac troponin T or troponin I.

BACKGROUND Evaluation of patients with acute chest pain in emergency rooms is time-consuming and expensive, and it often results in uncertain diagnoses. We prospectively investigated the usefulness of bedside tests for the detection of cardiac troponin T and troponin I in the evaluation of patients with acute chest pain. METHODS In 773 consecutive patients who had had acute chest pain for less than 12 hours without ST-segment elevation on their electrocardiograms, troponin T and troponin I status (positive or negative) was determined at least twice by sensitive, qualitative bedside tests based on the use of specific monoclonal antibodies. Testing was performed on arrival and four or more hours later so that one sample was taken at least six hours after the onset of pain. The troponin T results were made available to the treating physicians. RESULTS Troponin T tests were positive in 123 patients (16 percent), and troponin I tests were positive in 171 patients (22 percent). Among 47 patients with evolving myocardial infarction, troponin T tests were positive in 44 (94 percent) and troponin I tests were positive in all 47. Among 315 patients with unstable angina, troponin T tests were positive in 70 patients (22 percent), and troponin I tests were positive in 114 patients (36 percent). During 30 days of follow-up, there were 20 deaths and 14 nonfatal myocardial infarctions. Troponin T and troponin I proved to be strong, independent predictors of cardiac events. The event rates in patients with negative tests were only 1.1 percent for troponin T and 0.3 percent for troponin I. CONCLUSIONS Bedside tests for cardiac-specific troponins are highly sensitive for the early detection of myocardial-cell injury in acute coronary syndromes. Negative test results are associated with low risk and allow rapid and safe discharge of patients with an episode of acute chest pain from the emergency room.
Premalignant alterations in the glycosphingolipid composition of colonic epithelial cells of rats treated with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine.

1,2-Dimethylhydrazine is a procarcinogen with selectivity for the colon. In weekly s.c. doses of 20 mg/kg of body weight, this agent produces colonic tumors in virtually 100% of rodents, with a latency period of approximately 6 months. To determine whether alterations in the glycosphingolipid content and composition of rat colonic epithelial cells existed before the development of dimethylhydrazine-induced colon cancer, rats were given s.c. injections of this agent (20 mg/kg body weight per week) or diluent for 5 weeks. Animals were sacrificed at this time period and colonocytes isolated from each group. Glycosphingolipids were then extracted from these cells and analyzed by thin-layer chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography and gas-liquid chromatography. The results of these studies demonstrate that: (a) the content and relative percentages of globotriaosylceramide is increased, whereas hematoside and globotetraosylceramide are decreased in dimethylhydrazine-treated colonocytes compared to their control counterparts; and (b) differences in the enzymatic activities responsible for the biosynthesis of these glycosphingolipids appear to explain, at least partially, these compositional differences. The present data, therefore, suggest that alterations in certain glycosphingolipids may be an early event in colonic malignant transformation and, furthermore, that these alterations may prove useful in the detection of early colon cancer.
Comparison of Personal History with Patch Test Results in Metal Allergy

In order to compare the validity of patient personal history of contact sensitivity to metal alloys with patch test results, 160 patients with hand eczema were patch tested with a standard series according to the ICDRG after a special questionnaire. In 65%, history and patch test results were identical. Seventy‐eight (48.8%) patients thought they would be allergic to metal ions, whereas the patch test revealed a positive result in only 21.3% cases. Positive history but negative test was more frequent in women; in the male group, negative history and positive patch test was the most common finding. Although 82 patients had a negative history, the patch test was positive for contact sensitivity to metal allergens in 12 of them. Both false positive patch tests and false negative histories are possible. Since many factors influence a positive patch test, not only the patient's history but also a synopsis of the anamnesis and patch testing will help to achieve the correct diagnosis of metal contact hypersensitivity.
Static output feedback control design for Takagi-Sugeno descriptor fuzzy systems

The paper is concerned with control design via static output feedback controller for a fuzzy descriptor system. A fuzzy descriptor system describes a natural representation for physical systems, which are usually modeled as a nonlinear system. In the actual situation, the state of the system is rarely measured and the output feedback control design is desired. In this paper, static output feedback control for fuzzy descriptor systems is considered and a control design of admissible controllers is proposed. The stability analysis of the closed-loop system and controller design are given in terms of Linear Matrix Inequality(LMI) conditions.
Snabb introduktion till fjärranalys

Fjarranalys definieras som matningen av egenskaperna av en objekt fran avstand, dvs utan att vara i kontakt med objekten. Inom naturvetenskap betyder fjarranalys matning av egenskaperna av jordens yta med hjalp av sensorer monterade ombord satelliter och flygplan. For dem flesta av oss, biooch geovetare, geologer, mm ar fjarranalys en teknik, ett verktyg for att studera naturliga system och for att bidra till losningen av specifika problem inom naturvetenskap. Oftast ar andamalet for fjarranalys bestammelsen av vilka material finns pa en viss yta, s.k. klassificering, och dess andring i tiden.
Is the β thalassaemia trait of clinical importance?

Although the β thalassaemia trait affects millions of people worldwide, there have been no controlled studies to determine whether it is associated with any clinical disability or abnormal physical signs. To address this question, 402 individuals were studied: 217 with β thalassaemia trait, of whom 154 were aware of the diagnosis and 63 were unaware until after the completion of the study; 89 normal controls; and 96 controls with mild hypochromic anaemia. There was a significant increase in symptoms ascribable to anaemia and episodes of pyrexia in those with the β thalassaemia trait that were not influenced by prior knowledge that they had this condition. There was no difference in physical findings, notably splenomegaly, between those with β thalassaemia trait and either control group.
Methylotrophic Bacteria: Biochemical Diversity and Genetics

Bacteria that are able to use methane as a sole carbon and energy source also carry out a broad range of biotransformations, some of which have industrial and environmental significance. Genetic studies on methylotrophs, including the use of recombinant DNA techniques, show promise for the isolation and cloning of genes coding for specific functions.
Emergence of resistance to beta-lactam and aminoglycoside antibiotics during moxalactam therapy of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections

In four patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections, the infecting strain developed resistance to moxalactam during therapy with this drug. In addition, P. aeruginosa isolates from two of these four patients showed increased resistance to aminoglycosides. Isolates from a third patient acquired cross-resistance to other antipseudomonal beta-lactams. In three of the cases, disk susceptibility tests failed to detect the resistance that was demonstrated in broth dilution assays. Isolate identities were confirmed by serotyping. No new plasmids were found by agarose gel electrophoresis. The mechanisms for this resistance did not involve enzymatic antibiotic degradation. These findings suggest that currently available expanded-spectrum cephalosporin derivatives should probably not be used alone for most serious infections due to P. aeruginosa. They also suggest that strains with multiple antibiotic resistance may become more prevalent in hospitals if these drugs are used extensively.
A tracking algorithm for autonomous navigation of AGVs in a container terminal

In this paper, a tracking algorithm for the autonomous navigation of the automated guided vehicles (AGVs) operated in a container terminal is investigated. The navigation system is based on sensors that detect range and bearing. The navigation algorithm used is an interacting multiple model algorithm to detect other AGVs and avoid obstacles using information obtained from the multiple sensors. In order to detect other AGVs (or obstacles), two kinematic models are derived: A constant velocity model for linear motion and a constant-speed turn model for curvilinear motion. For the constant-speed turn model, an unscented Kalman filter is used because of the drawbacks of the extended Kalman filter in nonlinear systems. The suggested algorithm reduces the root mean squares error for linear motions and rapidly detects possible turning motions.
Versatility of Aminoglycosides and Prospects for Their Future

SUMMARY Aminoglycoside antibiotics have had a major impact on our ability to treat bacterial infections for the past half century. Whereas the interest in these versatile antibiotics continues to be high, their clinical utility has been compromised by widespread instances of resistance. The multitude of mechanisms of resistance is disconcerting but also illuminates how nature can manifest resistance when bacteria are confronted by antibiotics. This article reviews the most recent knowledge about the mechanisms of aminoglycoside action and the mechanisms of resistance to these antibiotics.
A critical role of Sonic Hedgehog signaling in maintaining the tumorigenicity of neuroblastoma cells

Accumulated evidence suggests a major role for the activation of the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway in the development of neural crest stem cells that give rise to the sympathetic nervous system. We therefore investigated the involvement of SHH signaling in the pathogenesis of neuroblastoma, a common childhood malignant tumor of the sympathetic nervous system. Human neuroblastoma cell lines and a majority of primary neuroblastoma specimens showed high‐level expression of the pathway targets and components, indicating persistent activation of the SHH pathway. All of the neuroblastoma cell lines we examined expressed significant levels of SHH ligand, suggesting an autocrine, ligand‐dependent activation of the SHH pathway in neuroblastoma cells. Inhibition of SHH signaling by cyclopamine induced apoptosis and blocked proliferation in all major types of neuroblastoma cells, and abrogated the tumorigenicity of neuroblastoma cells. Moreover, the knockdown of GLI2 in neuroblastoma BE (2)‐C and SK‐N‐DZ cell lines resulted in the inhibition of colony formation. Our study has revealed a molecular mechanism for the persistent activation of the SHH pathway which promotes the development of neuroblastoma, and suggests a new approach for the treatment of this childhood malignant tumor. (Cancer Sci 2009; 100: 1848–1855)
Structure and magnetic properties of mono-and bi-dispersed ferrofluids as revealed by simulations

Using a Langevin molecular dynamics simulation, we show that the magnetic properties of a monoand bi-dispersed ferrofluid system depend on the volume fraction and the dipolar coupling parameter. For the bi-dispersed system, most of the chains are formed by the large particles, but the aggregation behavior of the large particles is hindered by the presence of the small particles, which are predominantly attached to the end of the particle chain. To further elucidate the microscopic fluid structure, anisotropic structure factors are calculated. r 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. PACS: 82.70. Dd; 61.20. Ja; 75.50. Mm; 82.20. Wt
Prophylaxis for Deep Venous Thrombosis in Craniotomy Patients: A Decision Analysis

OBJECTIVE: We sought to determine the most efficient perioperative prophylactic strategy for deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in craniotomy patients by use of a decision analysis model. METHODS: We conducted a structured review of the relevant literature and compiled the reported incidences of DVT, pulmonary embolism, and postoperative intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in craniotomy patients. We also obtained from the literature estimates of the likelihood and the impact of various outcomes of these complications. Data from 810 craniotomies performed at our own institution were also examined. The decision analytic model was then used to compare the effectiveness of pneumatic compression boots with pneumatic compression boots combined with either unfractionated or low-molecular-weight heparin. The model dealt with variability by using both sensitivity analysis and Monte Carlo simulation. RESULTS: As expected, the addition of heparin lowered the incidence of both DVT and pulmonary embolism, but at the cost of increasing ICH. Because the deleterious effects of ICH were so much greater than the benefits from heparinization, overall outcomes were best with mechanical prophylaxis alone. This was especially true for low-molecular-weight heparin, which is associated with a relatively high risk of ICH. Our own institutional data support the findings in the literature. Although the differences are modest, they reach statistical significance in the case of low-molecular-weight heparin. CONCLUSION: Using decision analytic modeling, we have shown that mechanical prophylaxis yields outcomes in craniotomy patients superior to those of either unfractionated or low-molecular-weight heparin.
Effects of capillary red cell density on gas conductance of frog skin.

We tested experimentally the hypothesis that decreasing capillary red blood cell (RBC) density (dRBC) reduces the tissue diffusing capacity of frog skin to CO (DtiCO) and O2 (DtiO2). The effects of dRBC on CO2 transport were also assessed. C18O, O2, and CO2 transport between the skin and a cutaneous sample chamber on the belly of anesthetized (halothane) frogs (Rana pipiens) was measured by mass spectrometry, and the cutaneous conductances to C18O (GCO), O2 (GO2), and CO2 (GCO2) were calculated. The dRBC of the planar cutaneous capillary bed was measured by intravital fluorescent video microscopy. DtiCO and DtiO2 were calculated from a modification of the Roughton-Foster equation: 1/G = 1/Dti + 1/(theta RBC.dRBC), where theta RBC values were estimated from literature values. In one group of animals (n = 6), measurements were made before hemodilution (dRBC = 630 +/- 56 cells/mm2), after one hemodilution (dRBC = 349 +/- 50 cells/mm2), and after a second hemodilution (dRBC = 150 +/- 31 cells/mm2). In controls, time had no effect on GCO, GO2, or GCO2 (P greater than 0.42). Before hemodilution, GCO, GO2, and GCO2 were 0.069 +/- 0.010, 0.088 +/- 0.0012, and 1.23 +/- 0.010 nmol.min-1.Torr-1.cm-2, respectively, and lowering dRBC by hemodilution decreased all these parameters (P less than 0.025). The mean slopes of GCO, GO2, and GCO2 vs. dRBC were 6.0 +/- 1.3 x 10(-7), 7.2 +/- 2.3 x 10(-7), and 7.8 +/- 3.0 x 10(-6) nmol.min-1.Torr-1.RBC-1, respectively. Lowering dRBC also decreased DtiCO and DtiO2 (P less than 0.034). DtiCO and DtiO2 were 0.080 +/- 0.012 and 0.096 +/- 0.013 nmol.min-1.Torr-1.cm-2, respectively, before hemodilution. The mean slopes of DtiCO and DtiO2 vs. dRBC were 4.9 +/- 2.1 x 10(-7) and 6.5 +/- 2.8 x 10(-7) nmol.min-1.Torr-1.RBC-1, respectively. Hemodilution had no effect on perfused capillary density (P = 0.38). These results indicate that tissue diffusive conductance is proportional to dRBC. Regulation of dRBC may be an important mechanism modulating diffusive gas transport in tissue.