Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Optimization of sampling rate and smoothing improves classification of high frequency power in electrocorticographic brain signals

Objective. High-frequency band (HFB) activity, measured using implanted sensors over the cortex, is increasingly considered as a feature for the study of brain function and the design of neural-implants, such as Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs). One common way of extracting these power signals is using a wavelet dictionary, which involves the selection of different temporal sampling and temporal smoothing parameters, such that the resulting HFB signal best represents the temporal features of the neuronal event of interest. Typically, the use of neuro-electrical signals for closed-loop BCI control requires a certain level of signal downsampling and smoothing in order to remove uncorrelated noise, optimize performance and provide fast feedback. However, a fixed setting of the sampling and smoothing parameters may lead to a suboptimal representation of the underlying neural responses and poor BCI control. This problem can be resolved with a systematic assessment of parameter settings. Approach. With classification of HFB power responses as performance measure, different combinations of temporal sampling and temporal smoothing values were applied to data from sensory and motor tasks recorded with high-density and standard clinical electrocorticography (ECoG) grids in 12 epilepsy patients. Main results. The results suggest that HFB ECoG responses are best performed with high sampling and subsequent smoothing. For the paradigms used in this study, optimal temporal sampling ranged from 29 Hz to 50 Hz. Regarding optimal smoothing, values were similar between tasks (0.1–0.9 s), except for executed complex hand gestures, for which two optimal possible smoothing windows were found (0.4–0.6 s and 0.9–2.7 s). Significance. The range of optimal values indicates that parameter optimization depends on the functional paradigm and may be subject-specific. Our results advocate a methodical assessment of parameter settings for optimal decodability of ECoG signals.
Echocardiographic Parameters and the Risk of Incident Atrial Fibrillation: The Suita Study

Background Left atrial dimension (LAD) and other parameters of echocardiography have been reported to be associated with the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, few studies have investigated the associations between echocardiographic parameters and the risk of AF in the Asian general population, which has a low AF incidence. Methods A prospective cohort study was performed in 1,424 individuals in the Suita study with echocardiographic parameters, including LAD, and no history of AF. After echocardiography, the participants were followed using 12-lead electrocardiography and questionnaires to detect AF incidence. The multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of echocardiographic parameters for AF incidence were estimated after adjustment for the risk factors of the AF risk score. Results During the median 6.0 years of follow-up, 31 AF cases occurred. The multivariable-adjusted HR of a 1-mm increase in LAD for AF was 1.18 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08–1.28). The multivariable-adjusted HR for AF of a 1-standard-deviation increase in LAD was higher than that of left ventricular internal dimensions in diastole, left ventricular mass, ejection fraction, and percent fractional shortening, and it was the only significant factor. In 667 participants with both LAD and LA volume (LAV) measurements, LAD and LAV were independently associated with the risk of AF incidence. Conclusions LAD on echocardiography was an independent risk factor of incident AF in the Japanese population. LAD might be useful for identifying individuals with a high risk of AF in health check-ups of the general population.
Impact of a Comprehensive COPD Therapeutic Interchange Program on 30-Day Readmission Rates in Hospitalized Patients.

Purpose Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death in the United States. The economic effect of COPD management is substantial, and the prevalence of the disease continues to rise with the growth of older populations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and financial impact of a comprehensive therapeutic interchange program (CTIP) in hospitalized patients with COPD. The primary outcome was a 30-day readmission rate, with the following secondary outcomes: 30-day mortality and pharmacy-inhaled medication cost per patient. Methods This study was a multi-center, retrospective, electronic chart review of patients with a diagnosis of COPD admitted to two hospitals from July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017. Our intervention group was admitted to a 550-bed tertiary care hospital and was managed with a pharmacist-led CTIP for inhaled products used in COPD. Our control group was admitted to a 545-bed tertiary care hospital, which did not have a CTIP in place. Results 2,885 hospitalized patients with a diagnosis of COPD were included in the analysis (1,350 in the intervention group and 1,535 in the control group). Univariable analysis demonstrated that the intervention group was associated with a lower 30-day readmission rate (5.8% vs. 8.3%; P = 0.012) and a lower average pharmacy-inhaled medication cost ($221 vs. $311; P = < 0.01). There was no statistical difference in 30-day mortality. Conclusion This study demonstrates that the use of a pharmacist-led CTIP of COPD inhalers does not worsen patient outcomes and may provide pharmacy cost savings. The cohort managed with a CTIP was statistically associated with a lower 30-day readmission rate and lower pharmacy-inhaled medication costs without any difference in 30-day mortality.
Regulatory assessment and risk management of chemical mixtures: challenges and ways forward

Abstract This paper summarizes current challenges, the potential use of novel scientific methodologies, and ways forward in the risk assessment and risk management of mixtures. Generally, methodologies to address mixtures have been agreed; however, there are still several data and methodological gaps to be addressed. New approach methodologies can support the filling of knowledge gaps on the toxicity and mode(s) of action of individual chemicals. (Bio)Monitoring, modeling, and better data sharing will support the derivation of more realistic co-exposure scenarios. As knowledge and data gaps often hamper an in-depth assessment of specific chemical mixtures, the option of taking account of possible mixture effects in single substance risk assessments is briefly discussed. To allow risk managers to take informed decisions, transparent documentation of assumptions and related uncertainties is recommended indicating the potential impact on the assessment. Considering the large number of possible combinations of chemicals in mixtures, prioritization is needed, so that actions first address mixtures of highest concern and chemicals that drive the mixture risk. As chemicals with different applications and regulated separately might lead to similar toxicological effects, it is important to consider chemical mixtures across legislative sectors.
NetworkAnalyst 3.0: a visual analytics platform for comprehensive gene expression profiling and meta-analysis

Abstract The growing application of gene expression profiling demands powerful yet user-friendly bioinformatics tools to support systems-level data understanding. NetworkAnalyst was first released in 2014 to address the key need for interpreting gene expression data within the context of protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. It was soon updated for gene expression meta-analysis with improved workflow and performance. Over the years, NetworkAnalyst has been continuously updated based on community feedback and technology progresses. Users can now perform gene expression profiling for 17 different species. In addition to generic PPI networks, users can now create cell-type or tissue specific PPI networks, gene regulatory networks, gene co-expression networks as well as networks for toxicogenomics and pharmacogenomics studies. The resulting networks can be customized and explored in 2D, 3D as well as Virtual Reality (VR) space. For meta-analysis, users can now visually compare multiple gene lists through interactive heatmaps, enrichment networks, Venn diagrams or chord diagrams. In addition, users have the option to create their own data analysis projects, which can be saved and resumed at a later time. These new features are released together as NetworkAnalyst 3.0, freely available at https://www.networkanalyst. ca.
To be or not to be modified: Miscellaneous aspects influencing nucleotide modifications in tRNAs

Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are essential components of the cellular protein synthesis machineries, but are also implicated in many roles outside translation. To become functional, tRNAs, initially transcribed as longer precursor tRNAs, undergo a tightly controlled biogenesis process comprising the maturation of their extremities, removal of intronic sequences if present, addition of the 3′‐CCA amino‐acid accepting sequence, and aminoacylation. In addition, the most impressive feature of tRNA biogenesis consists in the incorporation of a large number of posttranscriptional chemical modifications along its sequence. The chemical nature of these modifications is highly diverse, with more than hundred different modifications identified in tRNAs to date. All functions of tRNAs in cells are controlled and modulated by modifications, making the understanding of the mechanisms that determine and influence nucleotide modifications in tRNAs an essential point in tRNA biology. This review describes the different aspects that determine whether a certain position in a tRNA molecule is modified or not. We describe how sequence and structural determinants, as well as the presence of prior modifications control modification processes. We also describe how environmental factors and cellular stresses influence the level and/or the nature of certain modifications introduced in tRNAs, and report situations where these dynamic modulations of tRNA modification levels are regulated by active demodification processes. © 2019 IUBMB Life, 71(8):1126–1140, 2019
Remote-controlled internal lengthening plate for distraction osteogenesis in pediatric patients

ABSTRACT Objectives: Limb lengthening by distraction osteogenesis is a technique widely used to treat limb length discrepancy resulting from trauma, congenital limb defects and long bone non-union. For decades, patients have resorted to the Ilizarov apparatus, prone to pin tract infections and scarring. Although implantable lengthening nails have reduced the incidence of complications, they are not applicable in pediatric patients with open growth plates. The aim of this project is to design a remote-controlled internal lengthening device suitable for implantation in children. Methods: The proposed device has the form of an internal remote-controlled telescopic lengthening plate, screwed to the lateral side of the bone with locking screws. This is appropriate for use with pediatric patients. It has been tested on an experimental bench which has the form of a vertically sliding platform, on which were stacked weights simulating soft-tissue resistance forces. Results: This internal lengthening plate generated distraction forces of up to 735 N on wooden and synthetic bones (SawbonesTM). Furthermore, it maintained a constant distraction speed over the course of the procedure for a given weight. Conclusions: This device represents a major advancement in the field of pediatric limb-lengthening, addressing a demographic gap left open by current implantable devices.
Critical applications of Mucor circinelloides within a biorefinery context

Abstract The establishment of an efficient and feasible biorefinery model depends on, among other factors, particularly the selection of the most appropriate microorganism. Mucor circinelloides is a dimorphic fungus species able to produce a wide variety of hydrolytic enzymes, lipids prone to biodiesel production, carotenoids, ethanol, and biomass with significant nutritional value. M. circinelloides also has been selected as a model species for genetic modification by being the first filamentous oleaginous species to have its genome fully characterized, as well as being a species characterized as a potential bioremediation agent. Considering the potential of replacing several nonrenewable feedstocks is widely dependent on fossil fuels, the exploitation of microbial processes and products is a desirable solution for promoting a green and sustainable future. Here, we introduce and thoroughly describe the recent and critical applications of this remarkable fungus within the context of developing a fungal-based biorefinery.
High Plaque Levels after Thorough Toothbrushing: What Impedes Efficacy?

Objectives: Previous studies have shown high levels of dental plaque after toothbrushing and poor toothbrushing performance. There is a lack of evidence about what oral hygiene behavior predicts persistent plaque. The present cross-sectional study thus relates toothbrushing behavior to oral cleanliness after brushing and to gingivitis. Methods: All young adults from a central town in Germany who turned 18 y old in the year prior to the examination were invited to participate in the study. They were asked to clean their teeth to their best abilities while being filmed. Videos were analyzed regarding brushing movements (vertical, circular, horizontal, modified Bass technique) and evenness of distribution of brushing time across vestibular (labial/buccal) and palatinal (lingual/palatinal) surfaces. Dental status, gingival bleeding, and oral cleanliness after oral hygiene were assessed. Results: Ninety-eight young adults participated in the study. Gingival margins showed persistent plaque at 69.48% ± 12.31% sites (mean ± SD) after participants brushed to their best abilities. Regression analyses with the brushing movements and evenness of distribution of brushing time as predictors explained 15.2% (adjusted R2 = 0.152, P = 0.001) of the variance in marginal plaque and 19.4% (adjusted R2 = 0.194, P < 0.001) of the variance in bleeding. Evenness of distribution of brushing time was the most important behavioral predictor. Conclusion: Even when asked to perform optimal oral hygiene, young German adults distributed their brushing time across surfaces unevenly. Compared with brushing movements, this factor turned out to be of more significance when explaining the variance of plaque and bleeding. Knowledge Transfer Statement: Results of this study can help clinicians and patients understand the meaning of specific behavioral aspects of toothbrushing for oral cleanliness and oral health.
Loss of One Engrailed1 Allele Enhances Induced α-Synucleinopathy

Background Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a synucleinopathy that has multiple neuropathological characteristics, with nigrostriatal dopamine system degeneration being a core feature. Current models of PD pathology typically fail to recapitulate several attributes of the pathogenic process and neuropathology. We aimed to define the effects of combining a mouse model exhibiting multiple PD-like changes with intrastriatal injections of α-synuclein (α-syn) pre-formed fibrils (PFFs) aggregates. We employed the heterozygous Engrailed 1 (En1+/-) mouse that features several pathophysiological hallmarks of clinical PD. Objective: To test the hypothesis that the neuropathological changes in the En1+/- mice will promote formation of α-syn aggregates following intrastriatal injections of pathogenic human α-syn PFFs. Methods: We unilaterally injected PFFs into the striata of 1 month-old En1+/- and control wild-type mice and euthanized animals at 3 months for post-mortem analysis. Results: Using immunohistochemistry and unbiased stereology, we established that PFF-injected En1+/- mice exhibited a near-threefold increase in pS129-α-syn-positive neurons in the substantia nigra compared to PFF-injected wild-type mice. The PFF-injected En1+/- mice also displayed significant increases in pS129-α-syn-positive neurons in the amygdala and ventral tegmental area; regions of known PD pathology with projections to the striatum. Additionally, we observed amplified pS129-α-syn-positive aggregation in En1+/- mice in multiple cortical regions. Conclusions: Following intrastriatal injection of PFFs, absence of an En1 allele leads to additional aggregation of pathological α-syn, potentially due to En1-loss mediated nigrostriatal impairment. We propose that further development of this double-hit model could result in a PD mouse model that predicts which experimental therapies will be effective in PD.
Malnutrition and Childhood Illness among 1–5-year-old Children in an Urban Slum in Faridabad: A Cross-Sectional Study

A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among 202 children aged 1–5 years residing in an urban slum to study the extent of malnutrition and its association with common childhood illness(es). The participants were selected using convenient sampling (nonprobability), and the appropriate respondents were interviewed using a structured, semi-open-ended, pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaire. The prevalence of undernutrition (weight for age), stunting (height for age), and wasting (weight for height) were calculated at the cutoff level of ≤2 standard deviation (Z-score <−2) of the National Centre for Health Statistics (NCHS) reference median values. Data were analyzed using appropriate tests of significance. The mean age of participants was 33.9 ± 13.9 months. The proportion of undernutrition, stunting, and wasting among was found to be 29.2%, 66.8%, and 12.9%, respectively. Respiratory illness (56.9%) was reportedly the most common morbidity among participants. A higher proportion of children who reportedly suffered from viral fever in past 3 months were wasted, and this association was found to be statistically significant (p = 0.003). The alarming rate of malnutrition reiterates the synergistic relationship between common infections and malnutrition. It is, therefore, imperative to emphasize and strengthen the role of nutritional interventions as outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO) Integrated Management of Childhood Illness as part of case management for infectious diseases among children aged <5 years.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety in Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by motor symptoms, but nonmotor symptoms also significantly impair daily functioning and reduce quality of life. Anxiety is prevalent and debilitating in PD, but remains understudied and undertreated. Much affective research in PD focuses on depression rather than anxiety, and as such, there are no evidence-based treatments for anxiety in this population. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has shown promise for treating depression in PD and may be efficacious for anxiety. This exploratory study implemented a multiple-baseline single-case experimental design to evaluate the utility and feasibility of CBT for individuals with PD who also met criteria for a DSM-5 anxiety disorder (n = 9). Participants were randomized to a 2-, 4-, or 6-week baseline phase, followed by 12 CBT sessions, and two post treatment assessments (immediately post treatment and 6-week follow-up). Multiple outcome measures of anxiety and depression were administered weekly during baseline and intervention. Weekly CBT sessions were conducted in-person (n = 5) or via secure videoconferencing (n = 4). At post treatment, seven of the nine participants showed significant reductions in anxiety and/or depression, with changes functionally related to treatment and most improvements maintained at 6-week follow-up. Effects of CBT on secondary outcomes varied across participants, with preliminary evidence for reduction in fear of falling. Adherence and retention were high, as were treatment satisfaction and acceptability. The findings of this pilot study provide preliminary evidence for the utility of CBT as a feasible treatment for anxiety and comorbid depressive symptoms in PD and highlight the potential of telehealth interventions for mood in this population.
Evaluation of spring-loaded cane ground reaction forces during walking using time and frequency domain analysis

Abstract This study examined the effect of a spring-loaded cane stiffness reduction on upper and lower extremity ground reaction forces in time and frequency domain during cane-aided walking. Twenty-nine participants walked five times over two force plates with a spring-loaded cane set at four different stiffnesses and T-scope knee brace set at 30° of knee flexion to simulate a foot injury. Time–frequency domain analyses revealed an increase in ground reaction forces at the simulated injured foot and a decrease in ground reaction forces at the hand via the shaft of the cane for each spring loaded-cane stiffness reduction during walking. The results build on existing literature and highlight the use of spring-loaded canes, braking and propulsive ground reaction force measures, and frequency domain analysis to more accurately assess and monitor the rehabilitation and prevention of upper and lower extremity injuries during cane-aided walking.
[The change of fatty degeneration in the rotator cuff muscles after repair in patients over 65].

INTRODUCTION In the case of rotator cuff tears, the severity of the muscle atrophy and fatty degeneration has an effect on the success of the repair and on the functional outcome after surgery. AIM The ability of regeneration reduces with ageing; therefore, the study examined the atrophy and the fatty degeneration after rotator cuff repair in patients over 65. METHOD Eleven patients over 65 years of age were involved whose surgery was performed at the Department of Orthopaedics of Semmelweis University between 2012 and 2015. Their average age was 71.9 years and the average follow-up period was 39.9 months. Tear sizes were C1 in 3 cases, C2 in 3 cases, C3 in 4 cases, and C4 in 1 case. Each patient had magnetic resonance examination before and after the repair; the muscle atrophy and fatty degeneration were evaluated together with the type of the tear. Visual analogue scale and Constant score were used for the assessment of the pain and the shoulder function. RESULTS The average Constant score was 75 points. The occupancy ratio - referring to the severity of the atrophy - did not show significant improvement. The change in fatty degeneration and the atrophy were examined in different groups according to the size of the tears. In each group, the results showed progression. CONCLUSIONS After rotator cuff repair in patients over 65, fatty degeneration and muscle atrophy also show progression. No significant relationship was found between the size of the tear and fatty degeneration or between the size of the tear and muscle atrophy. Orv Hetil. 2019; 160(14): 533-539.