Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Acute metabolic brain changes following traumatic brain injury and their relevance to clinical severity and outcome

Background: Conventional MRI can provide critical information for care of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), but MRI abnormalities rarely correlate to clinical severity and outcome. Previous magnetic resonance spectroscopy studies have reported clinically relevant brain metabolic changes in patients with TBI. However, these changes were often assessed a few to several days after the trauma, with a consequent variation of the metabolic pattern due to temporal changes. Methods: Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (1H-MRSI) examinations were performed in 10 patients with TBI 48–72 h after the trauma, to obtain early measurements of central brain levels of N-acetylaspartate (NAA), choline (Cho), creatine (Cr) and lactate (La). Metabolite values were expressed as ratios to (1) a metabolic pattern, given by the sum of the resonance intensities of all metabolites detected in the same voxel and (2) intravoxel Cr. Results: NAA ratios were found to be significantly lower in patients with TBI than in normal controls. In contrast, Cho ratios were significantly higher in patients with TBI than in normal controls. Increased La levels were found in 5 of 10 patients with TBI. Both NAA and La values correlated closely with those of the Glasgow Coma Scale at presentation (r = 0.73 and −0.62, respectively; p<0.01 for both) and the Glasgow Outcome Scale at 3 months (r = −0.79 and 0.79, respectively; p<0.01 for both). Conclusion: Spectroscopic measures of neuro-axonal damage occurring soon after a brain trauma are clinically relevant. Significant increases in cerebral La level also may be detected when 1H-MRSI is performed early after the trauma and, at this stage, can represent a reliable index of injury severity and disease outcome in patients with TBI.
Preventive chemotherapy for HIV‐associated tuberculosis in Uganda: an operational assessment at a voluntary counselling and testing centre

Objective: To assess the operational aspects of isoniazid preventive chemotherapy (IPT) for tuberculosis in persons dually infected with HIV and Mycobacterium tuberculosis identified at an independent HIV voluntary counselling and testing centre in Kampala, Uganda. Design: HIV‐infected persons were counselled, had active tuberculosis excluded by medical examination, and were offered purified protein derivative (PPD) skin testing. PPD‐positive persons were offered isoniazid 300 mg daily for 6 months. Drugs were supplied, and toxicity and compliance were assessed monthly. Utilization of service, cost, and sustainability were also assessed. Results: Between 14 June 1991 and 30 September 1992, 9862 persons tested HIV‐positive. Of 5594 HIV‐infected clients who returned to collect test results, only 1524 (27%) were enrolled. Of those, 1344 were tuberculin‐tested (88%); 180 were not tested because of active tuberculosis, serious illnesses, refusal, and other reasons. Of the 1344, 250 (19%) did not return for test reading and 515 were negative (47% of tests read). Of 579 tuberculin‐positive persons, 59 (10%) were excluded from preventive chemotherapy because of tuberculosis and other respiratory illnesses. Of 520 persons given isoniazid, 62% collected at least 80% of their drug supplies. No major toxicity was observed. One case of tuberculosis occurred in the first month of treatment. Cost of HIV counselling and testing was US$ 18.54 per person and cost of follow‐up counselling and social support was US$ 7.89. Conclusions: Important factors were identified which caused attrition, such as limited motivation by counsellors to discuss tuberculosis issues during HIV pre‐ and post‐test counselling, insufficient availability of medical screening, shifting of sites to collect pills, and frequent tuberculin‐negative tests. Active tuberculosis among 6% of persons screened suggests that voluntary counselling and testing sites may be important for tuberculosis case finding and underscores the need to exclude tuberculosis carefully before starting IPT. In developing countries, further studies assessing the feasibility of IPT within tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS programme conditions are needed. Cost‐effectiveness of IPT, compared with passive case finding, and its sustainability should be assessed before national policies are established.
Neurofibromas in a Macaw (Ara chloroptera): Morphologic and Immunocytochemical Diagnosis

4 GREENE, H.J.: Congenital hydranencephaly and cerebellar hypoplasia in calves. J Am Vet Med Assoc 173: 1008-1010, 1978 5 JOCHIM, M.M. ; LUEDKE, A.J.: CHOW, T.L. : Bluetongue in cattle: Immunogenic responses in calves inoculated in-utero and after birth. Am J Vet Res 35: 5 17-522, I974 6 KONNO, S. ; MORIWAKI, M. ; NAKAGAWA, M. : Akabane disease in cattle: Congenital abnormalities caused by viral infection. Spontaneous disease. Vet Pathol 19:246-266, 1982 7 MACLACHLAN. J.; OSBURN, B.I. : Bluetongue virus-induced hydranencephaly in cattle. Vet Pathol 20:563-573, 1983 8 OSBURN, B.I. ; MCGOWAN, B. ; HERON, B. ; LOOMIS, E. ; BUSHNELL, R. ; STOTT, J.; UTTERBACK, W. : Epizootiologic study of bluetongue: Virologic and serologic results. Am J Vet Res 42:884-887, 1981 9 OSBURN, B.I. ; SILVERSTEIN, A.M.; PRENDERGAST, R.A. ; JOHNSON, R.T. ; PARSHALL, C.J.: Experimental viral-induced congenital encephalopathies. I. Pathology of hydranencephaly and porencephaly caused by bluetongue vaccine virus. Lab Invest 25: 197-205, 1971 10 RICHARDS, W.P.C. ; CORDY, D.R. : Bluetongue virus infection: Pathologic responses of nervous systems in sheep and mice. Science 156: 530-53 1, 1967 1 1 RICHARDS, W.P.C. ; CRENSHAW, G.L. ; BUSHNELL, R.B. : Hydranencephaly of calves associated with natural bluetongue virus infection. Cornell Vet 61:336-348, I97 1
Laminins in blood vessel development and disease -functional aspects in angiogenesis, atherosclerosis, and muscular dystrophy

Basement membranes are sheet like extracellular matrices that underlie or surround many cell types. They are crucial for key cellular events such as cell migration, proliferation, survival and differentiation. Vital components of all basement membranes are laminins, heterotrimeric combinations of different laminin chain isoforms. The different laminins and their subunits largely have a developmental and tissue specific distribution. To determine the function of laminin isoforms in pathological conditions, three model diseases were used. Special focus was on the vasculature, but also on the most blood vessel specific laminin chain, the laminin ? 4 chain. Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory process in large and medium sized arteries. During progression of atherosclerosis the vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) in the vessel wall become activated and start to migrate and proliferate. Extracellular matrix molecules are important for this process, but not much was known about VSMC laminin expression in health or disease. Therefore, this was studied in healthy and atherosclerotic vessels. Major laminin chains in VSMC were laminin ? 2, ? 4, ? 5, ? 2 and ? 1. In plaques, the laminin ? 1 chain was up-regulated and the laminin ? 2 chain down-regulated and in a cell culture system, mimicking the events of VSMC activation, the laminin ? 5 chain was also seen to be reduced. Tumour growth and metastasis are both dependent on incorporation of vessels into the tumour. An approach to treat cancers would therefore be to inhibit endothelial cell proliferation and migration. The C-terminal part of the laminin ? 4 chain, the LG4-5 domain, is proteolytically released. This domain was shown to be retained in the circulation and to reduce endothelial cell migration in vitro. Further studies showed that laminin ? 4 LG4-5 inhibited new blood vessel formation both ex vivo as well as in vivo. Purified integrin ? 3? 1 was shown to bind laminin ? 4LG4-5 and is therefore suggested as a potential receptor for laminin ? 4LG4-5. The extraocular muscles are selectively spared from muscle wasting in some muscular dystrophies, including a mouse model of muscular dystrophy arising from complete absence of laminin ? 2 chain. This model was used to identify the cause of this exclusion. Immunohistochemical and quantitative PCR studies suggested that extraocular muscles were spared due to high expression of the laminin ? 4 chain, which could enable a sustained activation of the integrin ? 7X1? 1D. In conclusion laminin isoform transition and processing of chains appear to occur in several of societies major diseases. (Less)
Development of an Optical Fiber Sensor Interrogation System for Vibration Analysis

Since the introduction of dynamic optical fiber sensor interrogation systems on the market it has become possible to perform vibration measurements at frequencies up to a few kHz. Nevertheless, the use of these sensors in vibration analysis has not become a standard practice yet. This is mainly caused by the fact that interrogators are stand-alone systems which focus on strain measurements while other types of signals are also required for vibration analysis (e.g., force signals). In this paper, we present a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) interrogation system that enables accurate strain measurement simultaneously with other signals (e.g., excitation forces). The system is based on a Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) and can easily be assembled with relatively low-cost off-the-shelf components. Dynamic measurements up to a few tens of kHz with a dynamic precision of around 3 nanostrain per square-root Hz can be performed. We evaluate the proposed system on two measurement examples: a steel beam with FBG sensors glued on top and a composite test specimen with a fiber sensor integrated within the material. We show that in the latter case the results of the interrogation system are superior in quality compared to a state-of-the-art commercially available interrogation system.
Topologically Characterized Movement Patterns: A Cognitive Assessment

Abstract In this paper, we discuss the role of topology as a predictor for the conceptualization of dynamically changing spatial configurations (referred to as movement patterns). We define meaningful units of movement patterns as paths through a topologically defined conceptual neighborhood graph. Topology plays a central role in formal approaches to human cognition and in predicting cognitive similarity ratings—although primarily for static spatial configurations. Formal specifications of the role of topology for characterizing movement patterns do exist, yet there is paucity of behavioral validation. To bridge this gap, we conducted an experiment based on the grouping paradigm to assess factors that underlie conceptualizations of movement patterns. The experiment was designed such that paths through the conceptual neighborhood graph were distinguished by topologically differentiated ending relations. We believe topology can make an important contribution in explaining movement conceptualizations. One recently formulated topology-based contribution is the endpoint hypothesis, asserting that a cognitive focus is placed on event ending relations. We discuss the results of our experiment in relation to previous experiments targeted toward a framework for modeling the cognitive conceptualization of dynamically changing spatial relations.
Experimental peri-implant mucositis in man.

OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to examine reactions of gingiva and peri-implant mucosa (PiM) to de novo plaque accumulation in humans. MATERIAL AND METHODS Prior to the start of the study, which included 12 partially edentulous subjects, a 3-week plaque control program was performed. Ethical approval was granted by the local ethics committee. On day 0, 2 soft tissue biopsies were harvested, 1 from a tooth and 1 from an implant site in every subject. After 3 weeks of undisturbed plaque accumulation (day 21), 2 additional biopsies were obtained from the gingiva and PiM in each subject. The tissue samples, each 4x4 mm in size, were snap frozen and prepared for immunohistochemical analysis. RESULTS The size of the infiltrate (ICT) in the day 0 biopsies, was about 0.03 mm2 in both the gingiva and PiM. At the end of the plaque accumulation period, the size of the lesion had significantly increased in both groups and occupied an area of 0.26 mm2 in the gingiva and 0.14 mm2 in PiM. In the biopsies presenting day 0, the proportions of the various cell populations examined were similar in the gingiva and in PiM. The tissue fractions of almost all types of cells increased during the 3 weeks, but the mean change for each cell type was greater in the gingiva than in PiM. The CD3/CD19 ratio decreased in the gingiva between day 0 and 21, but increased in PiM. CONCLUSION The results of the present study indicated that plaque accumulation induced an inflammatory response characterized by increased proportions of T- and B-cells in the ICT of both the gingiva and the PiM. Although not statistically significant, the host response in the gingiva tended to be more pronounced than in the peri-implant mucosa.
De novo 9q gain in an infant with tetralogy of Fallot with absent pulmonary valve: Patient report and review of congenital heart disease in 9q duplication syndrome

Genomic disruptions, altered epigenetic mechanisms, and environmental factors contribute to the heterogeneity of congenital heart defects (CHD). In recent years, chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) has led to the identification of numerous copy number variations (CNV) in patients with CHD. Genes disrupted by and within these CNVs thus represent excellent candidate genes for CHD. Microduplications of 9q (9q+) have been described in patients with CHD, however, the critical gene locus remains undetermined. Here we discuss an infant with tetralogy of Fallot with absent pulmonary valve, fetal hydrops, and a 3.76 Mb de novo contiguous gain of 9q34.2‐q34.3 detected by CMA, and confirmed by karyotype and FISH studies. This duplicated interval disrupted RXRA (retinoid X receptor alpha; OMIM #180245) at intron 1. We also review CHD findings among previously reported patients with 9q (9q+) duplication syndrome. This is the first report implicating RXRA in CHD with 9q duplication, providing additional data in understanding the genetic etiology of tetralogy of Fallot, CHD, and disorders linked to 9q microduplication syndrome. This report also highlights the significance of CMA in the clinical diagnosis and genetic counseling of patients and families with complex CHD. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Extended REACT - Routing information Enhanced Algorithm for Cooperative Transmission

In this paper an extension to the idea of routing information enhanced algorithm for cooperative transmission (REACT) is presented. It is shown that additional information collected and provided by an accordingly modified optimized link state routing protocol (OLSR) can be more efficiently exploited for the purposes of improving the organisation and therefore the performance of the distributed space-time block coded cooperative transmission with the use of virtual antenna arrays (VAA).
Interpretive Error in Radiology.

OBJECTIVE Although imaging technology has advanced significantly since the work of Garland in 1949, interpretive error rates remain unchanged. In addition to patient harm, interpretive errors are a major cause of litigation and distress to radiologists. In this article, we discuss the mechanics involved in searching an image, categorize omission errors, and discuss factors influencing diagnostic accuracy. Potential individual- and system-based solutions to mitigate or eliminate errors are also discussed. CONCLUSION Radiologists use visual detection, pattern recognition, memory, and cognitive reasoning to synthesize final interpretations of radiologic studies. This synthesis is performed in an environment in which there are numerous extrinsic distractors, increasing workloads and fatigue. Given the ultimately human task of perception, some degree of error is likely inevitable even with experienced observers. However, an understanding of the causes of interpretive errors can help in the development of tools to mitigate errors and improve patient safety.
Functional brain imaging to identify affected subjects genetically at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

In vivo brain imaging with positron emission tomography (PET) has helped to quantify and localize functional brain deficits in Alzheimer's disease (AD), and to understand disease mechanisms, in relation to dementia severity and cognitive profile. In their PNAS article, Small et al. (1) now conclude that such imaging done twice within a 2-year period can identify pathologically affected but not demented subjects “at risk” for AD, who have memory complaints and an apolipoprotein E4 (APOE-4) allele. Although Small et al. (1) speculate that serial imaging “will assist in response monitoring during experimental treatments,” its potential for success remains to be demonstrated.
Phenotypic screening of the Prestwick library for treatment of Parkinson's tremor symptoms using a humanized quantitative systems pharmacology platform.

BACKGROUND Possible solutions for the low success rate in CNS Drug discovery and development in CNS diseases include drug repurposing. OBJECTIVES As a possible alternative to prohibitively expensive systematic testing in animal models, we propose to use a humanized quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) platform as an example of a well-validated phenotypic assay in Parkinson's disease (PD) tremor for filtering out possible interesting molecules that then can be tested in preclinical animal models. This will significantly reduce discovery time and costs, while at the same time providing a better predictability to the human clinical outcome. The method will be applied to the Prestwick library, a library of FDA approved and off-patent medications. METHODS The platform contains 30 CNS physiologically implemented targets and simulates biophysically realistic neuronal network interactions between supplemental motor cortex and motor striatum based on preclinical neurophysiology and human electrophysiology data. Importantly, the platform is further calibrated using retrospective clinical data on Parkinsonian side-effects with antipsychotics. RESULTS We use this QSP platform to screen pharmacological profiles of serotonergic drugs in the Prestwick library. We identified five interesting multi-pharmacology agents, including trazodone that in a previously reported study improved clinical PD scales as augmentation strategy. CONCLUSION The Quantitative Systems Pharmacology platform is a powerful modeling and simulation tool with a relevant human clinical scale as output, where multi-target drugs effect can be simulated and promising candidates for further study in pharmacological profiling or animal models can be identified.
Catchers in the rye: treatment foster parents as a system of care.

PROBLEM Similar to the children in J. D. Salinger's novel, The Catcher in the Rye, youth in foster care face the specter of "going over the cliff. " METHODS The empirical basis for "treatment foster care" is reviewed, concluding that treatment foster care is both a clinically and cost-effective form of community-based treatment. FINDINGS Treatment foster parents prevent the fall of foster youth into the chasm of school failure, involvement with juvenile justice, and dependent living as adults. CONCLUSION Treatment foster care is an evidence-based approach that is less restrictive and offers troubled youth an opportunity to engage and grow within a family setting.
Analysis of a three-phase induction motor under voltage unbalance using the circle diagram method

Protective functions of an induction motor are mainly intended to prevent overheating of its windings. Owing mainly to overloads or unbalanced voltages, there is increase in consequent overheating of the windings. Three-phase voltage unbalance has long been a problem in power system. In fact, the large-scale negative sequence currents in induction motor result from slight unbalanced voltage, causing overheating, shaft vibration, noise, derating and additional losses, and hence reduce its lifetime and performance. This paper tries to analyze an induction motor supplied by unbalanced voltage utilizing the circle diagram method. Results obtains from the mathematical method are compared to validate the proposed graphical approach.
Factors influencing to the implementation success of big data analytics: A systematic literature review

Big data analytics (BDA) readiness factors have been widely researched; nevertheless, few have investigated the impact and success factors of BDA implementation in the organizational context. The relevance and quality of BDA outcomes have been a significant concern to the organizational leaders in supporting them for strategic decision-making. To that end, the objective of this study is twofold. Firstly, it investigates the factors that influencing the success of BDA implementation for effective decision-making. Secondly, this study adds to the body of knowledge in the information system (IS) domain, especially with its focus on BDA implementation packages. Based on 18 selected papers, this review has established 10 influencing factors that may influence the success of BDA implementation, therefore, contribute to the practice and research of BDA domain and its effectiveness towards the organizational performance enhancement.
Identification of two immunogenic domains of the prion protein—PrP—which activate class II‐restricted T cells and elicit antibody responses against the native molecule

Recent reports suggest that immunity against the prion protein (PrP) retards transmissible spongiform encephalopathies progression in infected mice. A major obstacle to the development of vaccines comes from the fact that PrP is poorly immunogenic, as it is seen as self by the host immune system. Additional questions concern the immune mechanisms involved in protection and the risk of eliciting adverse reactions in the central nervous system of treated patients. Peptide‐based vaccines offer an attractive strategy to overcome these difficulties. We have undertaken the identification of the immunogenic regions of PrP, which trigger helper T cells (Th) associated with antibody production. Our results identify two main regions, one between the structured and flexible portion of PrP (98–127) and a second between α 1 and α 2 helix (143–187). Peptides (30‐mer) corresponding to these regions elicit class II‐restricted Th cells and antibody production against native PrP and could therefore be of potential interest for a peptide‐based vaccination.