Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Denosumab Improves Glomerular Filtration Rate in Osteoporotic Patients With Normal Kidney Function by Lowering Serum Phosphorus

Higher serum phosphorus (Pi) increases the risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD). It was reported that a single administration of denosumab or zoledronate significantly suppressed serum Pi levels as well as those of bone resorption markers in serum. Also, previous evidences suggest a link between bone anti‐resorptive therapy and vasoprotective/renoprotective effects through mechanisms that remain unexplored. The aim of this study is to assess the renoprotective effect of denosumab and involvement of denosumab‐induced reduction in serum Pi in osteoporotic patients. Osteoporotic patients (n = 73) without overt proteinuria in dipstick test results were treated with denosumab (60 mg) every 6 months during the study period (24 months). Estimated glomerular filtration rate based on serum cystatin C (eGFRcys) was used as a filtration marker and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase‐5b (TRACP‐5b) as a bone resorption marker. For analysis of non‐CKD patients (n = 56), those with eGFRcys <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 were excluded. A single injection of denosumab suppressed serum Pi as well as TRACP‐5b during the first 6 months, whereas age‐related decline in eGFRcys was significantly reversed, with an increase of 2.75 ± 1.2 mL/min/1.73 m2 after 24 months noted. Multivariate analysis showed that serum Pi reduction following the initial denosumab injection was positively associated with serum TRACP‐5b suppression during that same period (β = 0.241, p = 0.049). In addition, a positive association of serum Pi suppression, but not of corrected calcium or TRACP‐5b, with eGFRcys increase after 24 months (β = 0.321, p = 0.014) was found after adjustments for gender, age, BMI, antihypertensive drug use, albumin, and eGFRcys. The same was observed in osteoporotic cases restricted to non‐CKD patients. In conclusion, serum Pi reduction resulting from phosphorus load decrement from bone induced by denosumab is a determinant for eGFRcys increase. Early introduction of bone antiresorptive therapy can retain glomerular filtration in osteoporosis cases, including non‐CKD patients. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Revisiting Bacterial Interference in the Age of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: Insights Into Staphylococcus aureus Carriage, Pathogenicity and Potential Control.

Bacteria compete with each other for local supremacy in biologic and environmental niches. In humans, who host an array of commensal bacteria, the presence of one species or strain can sometimes prevent colonization by another, a phenomenon known as "bacterial interference. " We describe how, in the 1960s, infants (and later adults) were actively inoculated with a relatively benign strain of Staphylococcus aureus, 502A, to prevent colonization with an epidemic S. aureus strain, 80/81. This introduced bacterial interference as a clinical approach to disease prevention, but little was known about the mechanisms of interference at that time. Since then, much has been learned about how bacteria interact with each other and the host to establish carriage, compete for niches and shift from harmless commensal to invasive pathogen. We provide an overview of these findings and summarize recent studies in which the genome and function of 502A were compared with those of the current epidemic strain, USA300, providing insight into differences in their invasiveness and immunogenicity. Although staphylococcal vaccines have been developed, none has yet been approved for clinical use. Further studies of staphylococcal strains and the molecular characteristics that lead to exclusion of specific bacteria from some niches may provide an alternative path to disease prevention.
Distinct roles of the anaphylatoxin receptors C3aR, C5aR1 and C5aR2 in experimental meningococcal infections

ABSTRACT The complement system is pivotal in the defense against invasive disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis (Nme, meningococcus), particularly via the membrane attack complex. Complement activation liberates the anaphylatoxins C3a and C5a, which activate three distinct G-protein coupled receptors, C3aR, C5aR1 and C5aR2 (anaphylatoxin receptors, ATRs). We recently discovered that C5aR1 exacerbates the course of the disease, revealing a downside of complement in Nme sepsis. Here, we compared the roles of all three ATRs during mouse nasal colonization, intraperitoneal infection and human whole blood infection with Nme. Deficiency of complement or ATRs did not alter nasal colonization, but significantly affected invasive disease: Compared to WT mice, the disease was aggravated in C3ar−/- mice, whereas C5ar1−/- and C5ar2−/- mice showed increased resistance to meningococcal sepsis. Surprisingly, deletion of either of the ATRs resulted in lower cytokine/chemokine responses, irrespective of the different susceptibilities of the mice. This was similar in ex vivo human whole blood infection using ATR inhibitors. Neutrophil responses to Nme were reduced in C5ar1−/- mouse blood. Upon stimulation with C5a plus Nme, mouse macrophages displayed reduced phosphorylation of ERK1/2, when C5aR1 or C5aR2 were ablated or inhibited, suggesting that both C5a-receptors prime an initial macrophage response to Nme. Finally, in vivo blockade of C5aR1 alone (PMX205) or along with C5aR2 (A8Δ71−73) resulted in ameliorated disease, whereas neither antagonizing C3aR (SB290157) nor its activation with a “super-agonist” peptide (WWGKKYRASKLGLAR) demonstrated a benefit. Thus, C5aR1 and C5aR2 augment disease pathology and are interesting targets for treatment, whereas C3aR is protective in experimental meningococcal sepsis.
Weakened Functional Connectivity Between the Amygdala and the Ventromedial Prefrontal Cortex Is Longitudinally Related to Psychopathic Traits in Low-Income Males During Early Adulthood

Psychopathy is a complex disorder consisting of harmful personality traits and impulsive-lifestyle and antisocial behaviors. Weakened functional connectivity between limbic and prefrontal brain regions is thought to underlie impaired sensitivity to others’ emotions that contribute to the interpersonal and affective personality traits associated with psychopathy. We tested whether weakened functional connectivity between the amygdala and ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) during the processing of fearful, angry, and neutral facial expressions was prospectively related to psychopathic traits in early adulthood. The sample included 167 low-income, racially diverse, urban males who completed a functional MRI scan at age 20 and questionnaire measures at ages 20 and 22. Weakened amygdala-vmPFC functional connectivity to fearful but not neutral or angry faces at age 20 was related to higher psychopathic traits at age 22.
In-plane wavevector distribution in partially coherent X-ray propagation.

The MOI (Mutual Optical Intensity) code for propagating partially coherent radiation through beamline optics is updated by including the in-plane wavevector in the wavefield calculation. The in-plane wavevector is a local function and accurately describes the average phase distribution in a partially coherent wavefield. The improved MOI code is demonstrated by beam propagation through free space and non-ideal mirrors. The improved MOI code can provide more accurate results with lower numbers of elements, and thus has a higher calculation efficiency. Knowledge of the in-plane wavevector also enables detailed studies of wavefield information under different coherence conditions. The improved MOI code is available at http://www.moixray. cn.
Skill Transference of a Probe-Tube Placement Training Simulator

Abstract Background: Probe-tube placement is a necessary step in hearing aid verification which needs ample hands-on experience and confidence before performing in clinic. To improve the methods of training in probe-tube placement, a manikin-based training simulator was developed consisting of a 3D-printed head, a flexible silicone ear, and a mounted optical tracking system. The system is designed to provide feedback to the user on the depth and orientation of the probe tube, and the time required to finish the task. Although a previous validation study was performed to determine its realism and teachability with experts, further validation is required before implementation into educational settings. Purpose: This study aimed to examine the skill transference of a newly updated probe-tube placement training simulator to determine if skills learned on this simulator successfully translate to clinical scenarios. Research Design: All participants underwent a pretest in which they were evaluated while performing a probe-tube placement and real-ear-to-coupler difference (RECD) measurement on a volunteer. Participants were randomized into one of two groups: the simulator group or the control group. During a two-week training period, all participants practiced their probe-tube placement according to their randomly assigned group. After two weeks, each participant completed a probe-tube placement on the same volunteer as a posttest scenario. Study Sample: Twenty-five novice graduate-level student clinicians. Data Collection and Analysis: Participants completed a self-efficacy questionnaire and an expert observer completed a questionnaire evaluating each participant’s performance during the pre- and posttest sessions. RECD measurements were taken after placing the probe tube and foam tip in the volunteer’s ear. Questionnaire results were analyzed through nonparametric t-tests and analysis of variance, whereas RECD results were analyzed using a nonlinear mixed model method. Results: Results suggested students in the simulator group were less likely to contact the tympanic membrane when placing a probe tube, appeared more confident, and had better use of the occluding foam tip, resulting in more improved RECD measurements. Conclusions: The improved outcomes for trainees in the simulator group suggest that supplementing traditional training with the simulator provides useful benefits for the trainees, thereby encouraging its usage and implementation in educational settings.
Genomics‐Driven Discovery of NO‐Donating Diazeniumdiolate Siderophores in Diverse Plant‐Associated Bacteria

Abstract Siderophores are key players in bacteria–host interactions, with the main function to provide soluble iron for their producers. Gramibactin from rhizosphere bacteria expands siderophore function and diversity as it delivers iron to the host plant and features an unusual diazeniumdiolate moiety for iron chelation. By mutational analysis of the grb gene cluster, we identified genes (grbD and grbE) necessary for diazeniumdiolate formation. Genome mining using a GrbD‐based network revealed a broad range of orthologous gene clusters in mainly plant‐associated Burkholderia/Paraburkholderia species. Two new types of diazeniumdiolate siderophores, megapolibactins and plantaribactin were fully characterized. In vitro assays and in vivo monitoring experiments revealed that the iron chelators also liberate nitric oxide (NO) in plant roots. This finding is important since NO donors are considered as biofertilizers that maintain iron homeostasis and increase overall plant fitness.
Paediatric donation after circulatory determined death heart transplantation using donor normothermic regional perfusion and ex situ heart perfusion: A case report

This is a report of a unique DCD paediatric heart transplant whereby normothermic regional perfusion was used to assess DCD heart function after death followed by ex situ heart perfusion of the graft during transportation from donor to recipient hospitals. The DCD donor was a 9‐year‐old boy weighing 84 kg. The recipient was 7‐year‐old boy with failing Fontan circulation and weighed 23 kg. It was an ABO‐compatible heart transplantation. The DCD heart was reperfused and assessed using normothermic regional perfusion followed by portable ex situ heart perfusion during transportation. The orthotopic heart transplantation was successful with good graft function and no evidence of rejection on endomyocardial biopsy at 30 days post‐transplant. At 1‐year follow‐up, excellent graft function is maintained, and he is attending school with a good quality of life. DCD heart transplantation in children is a promising solution to reducing paediatric waiting times. The case demonstrates the feasibility of using normothermic regional perfusion in the donor and ex situ heart perfusion during graft transportation. This combination allowed a functional assessment whilst minimizing warm ischaemia resulting in a successful outcome. More research and long‐term follow‐up are needed in order to benefit from the huge potential that paediatric DCD heart transplantation has to offer.
Disparities in Receipt of Bariatric Surgery in Canada

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Background: Patients with lower socioeconomic status (SES) in the United States have reduced access to many health services including bariatric surgery. It is unclear whether disparities in bariatric surgery exist in countries with government-sponsored universal health benefits. The authors used data from a large regional Canadian bariatric surgery referral center to examine the relationship between SES and receipt of bariatric surgery. Methods: The Toronto Western Hospital bariatric surgery registry was used to identify all adults referred for bariatric surgery assessment from 2010 to 2017. The authors compared demographics, SES measures, and clinical measures among patients who did not and did undergo bariatric surgery (Roux-en-Y or sleeve gastrectomy). Multiple logistic regression was used to examine differences in receipt of bariatric surgery according to patient demographic characteristics and SES factors. Results: Among 2417 patients included in the study, 646 (26.7%) did not receive surgery and 1771 patients (73.2%) did. Patients who did not undergo surgery were more likely to be male individual (29.1% vs. 19.3%; P<0.001), black (12.1% vs. 8.3%; P=0.005), South Asian/Middle Eastern (8.2% vs. 4.5%; P<0.001), and less likely to be white (68.9% vs. 76.7%; P<0.001). In multiple logistic regression, factors associated with not receiving surgery were male sex, Black and South Asian/Middle Eastern ethnicity, being single, lack of employment, and history of psychiatric illness. Conclusions: Among patients referred for bariatric surgery, those who were male individuals, nonwhite, single, and unemployed were less likely to undergo surgery. Our results suggest that even with equal insurance, there are disparities in receipt of bariatric surgery.
Do Knowledge Workers Use E-Mail Wisely?

This study investigates the e-mail usage behavior of knowledge workers through an in-depth literature review and a focus group discussion. It finds that people are ruled by e-mail, but think otherwise. In daily usage, many of the weaknesses of e-mail are converted into strengths, and having an information system background does not necessarily lead to sophistication in using e-mail tools. Further, users regard e-mail as a print medium rather than an interactive medium, and it has to a great extent replaced face-to-face communication in the workplace. E-mail users use the medium's carbon copy and forwarding features habitually and not out of necessity, and they do not usually handle work-related and personal e-mail messages separately. Finally, users seek opportunities to learn about e-mail functionality out of convenience, but these are not attained with ease. A contrast between these findings and conventional wisdom is drawn.
Bayesian Networks For Knowledge Discovery In ADatabase From A Program For GeneticImprovement Of The Nelore Breed

The fact that companies are becoming more and more interested in acquiring new technologies for processing and storing data, as well as the view that information is their largest asset, has led to much research about the process of transforming this data into knowledge. In this context, the Knowledge Discovery in Databases process has emerged as a technology well suited to searching for knowledge that is embedded in the data. The work presented here involves the investigation of Bayesian concepts, techniques, methods and tools to aid a KDD process for a database from the Program for Genetic Improvement of the Nelore Breed (PMGRN). The main objective of the application of this process is to find coupling patterns for animals of this breed, considering some traits, such as weight, maternal ability, and scrotal circumference. Treatment of missing values is considered, as well as the incorporation of background knowledge into this process. Data Mining II, C.A. Brebbia & N.F. F. Ebecken (Editors) © 2000 WIT Press, www.witpress. com, ISBN 1-85312-821-X
Questions Related to Preventing Sudden Death in Sport and Physical Activity

Participation in organized sport and recreational activities presents an innate risk for serious morbidity and mortality. Although death during sport or physical activity has many causes, advancements in sports medicine and evidence-based standards of care have allowed clinicians to prevent, recognize, and treat potentially fatal injuries more effectively. With the continual progress of research and technology, current standards of care are evolving to enhance patient outcomes. In this article, we provided 10 key questions related to the leading causes and treatment of sudden death in sport and physical activity, where future research will support safer participation for athletes and recreational enthusiasts. The current evidence indicates that most deaths can be avoided when proper strategies are in place to prevent occurrence or provide optimal care.
Export Knowledge and Export Performance : The Mediating Role of Relational Capital

This study investigates the mediating role of relational capital in the relationship between export knowledge and export performance. This paper argues that it is not sufficient for exporting firms to possess export knowledge to improve their performance. They also need to leverage their export knowledge base to take advantage of their relational capital to facilitate the process of exporting and reap positive rates of return in their export ventures. The study involves a survey 175 small, manufacturing and exporting firms in the Philippines. Using structural equation modelling approach, the study examines the export knowledge – relational capital – export performance linkages.
Vocal Repertoire of Sooty Mangabeys ( Cercocebus torquatus atys ) in the Taı̈ National

Three factors, environment, quality and type of interaction, and phylogeny have been hypothesized to influence the structure of signal repertoires in primates. Much is known about vocal repertoires of terrestrial, savannah-dwelling species and arboreal, rainforest-dwelling species, but very little is known about terrestrial rainforest species. To fill this knowledge gap and to further elucidate how the three factors influence vocal repertoires of primates, we designed a study on sooty mangabeys (Cercocebus torquatus atys), a terrestrial Old World primate that lives in dense rainforests. Recordings of sooty mangabeys in their natural environment were used to compile the vocal repertoire of this species. All calls are described according to the basic acoustical structure and the behavioral context in which they occurred. Descriptions are supplemented by quantitative measurements of call occurrence in all age–sex classes. For the most frequently produced vocalizations, a preliminary acoustical analysis was conducted to test for individual and contextual differences. Finally, we compare vocalizations of sooty mangabeys with vocalizations of several other primate species and discuss how the factors mentioned above might influence the vocal repertoire of sooty mangabeys. Corresponding author: Friederike Range, Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, 3720 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6196, USA. E-mail: range@sas.upenn. edu
Poster : Re-thinking the Honeypot for Cyber-Physical Systems

Since the early 1990s, the idea of entrapping and deceiving computer attackers in order to study their behavior and misdirect them has been used with great success in the computer security field. This practice, traditionally done through a computing system configured to emulate critical resources, called a Honeypot, has revealed attacker strategies and kept more critical computing resources safe. As the Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) space grows and becomes increasingly networked, attackers have been more interested in compromising the resources controlling these systems. In response, honeypots have been designed to emulate CPS specific components. However, all existing CPS honeypots neglect certain aspects of these systems that can alert an attacker to the nature of the honeypot, namely the simulation of the attached physical process and the physics of the devices that interact with the process. We propose a new CPS specific Honeypot framework, called HoneyPhy: A Physics-aware Honeypot Framework, that addresses these problems and aims to be extensible to all CPS.
Determinant of Corporate Dividend Policy : Empirical Evidence From Selected Quoted Conglomerate Firms In Nigeria

This study examined the determinants of corporate dividend policy in selected listed conglomerate firms in Nigeria. Secondary data was used to obtain relevant information from the annual financial reports and accounts of the listed firms. The data collected were analyzed using both descriptive such as frequencies, mean, median, standard deviation, skewness, kurtosis and Jarque-Bera. It further estimated the models using Fixed Effect Model (FEM), Random Effect Model (REM) and Error Composite Model estimation technique using Hausman test. Based on the findings, it was recommended that the Board of Directors (BODs) should maintain a steady increase in earnings, cash flow and dividend payment in order to attract more investors and shareholders
INTERNATIONAL CORNER NEONATAL ENCEPHALOPATHY AND CEREBRAL PALSY : A REVIEW OF THE PAST HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

Improvements in obstetrics managements and neonatal care have led to marked decreases in maternal and perinatal mortality and to sharp declines in physical trauma to the fetus during birth. On the other hand, the increased use of electronic fetal monitoring and cesarean section have had minimal or no effect on the occurrence of fetal and neonatal neurological morbidity specially neonatal encephalopathy and cerebral palsy.
ENHANCING ORGANISATIONAL COMMITMENT THROUGH WORKPLACE RELATIONSHIPS

As organizations consists of groups of people working towards common goal so when a person starts working in an organization the workplace relationships s/he develops with colleagues helps her/him in adjusting in her/his role and with the organization. Workplace relationships are unique interpersonal relationships and have significant impact on the success of the employee as well as on the success of the organization. The present study focuses on the impact of workplace relationships on the organizational commitment. The commitment of the employee depends on his/her positive working experiences in the organization. These experiences help in developing the feeling of attachment or identification with the organization. For the success of the organization healthy working relationships among employees and their commitment towards organization are significant. This paper identifies the role of healthy workplace relationships in enhancing organizational commitment among the employees. The committed employee is more determined in work and shows high productivity thus ensuring organizational success.