Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing the use of therapeutic footwear in persons with diabetes mellitus and loss of protective sensation: A focus group study

Background Persons with diabetes mellitus (DM) and loss of protective sensation (LOPS) due to peripheral neuropathy do not use their therapeutic footwear (TF) consistently. TF is essential to prevent foot ulceration. In order to improve compliance in using TF, influencing factors need to be identified and analyzed. Persons with a history of foot ulceration may find different factors important compared with persons without ulceration or persons who have never used TF. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine factors perceived as important for the use of TF by different groups of persons with DM and LOPS. Method A qualitative study was performed using focus group discussions. Subjects (n = 24) were divided into 3 focus groups based on disease severity: ulcer history (HoU) versus no ulcer history (no-HoU) and experience with TF (TF) versus no experience (no-TF). For each group of 8 subjects (TF&HoU; TF&no-HoU; no-TF&no-HoU), an online focus group discussion was organized to identify the most important influencing factors. Transcribed data were coded with Atlas.ti. The analysis was performed following the framework approach. Results The factors comfort and fit and stability/balance were ranked in the top 3 of all groups. Usability was ranked in the top 3 of group-TF&noHoU and group-noTF&noHoU. Two other factors, reducing pain and preventing ulceration were ranked in the top 3 of group-TF&noHoU and group-TF&HoU, respectively. Conclusion Experience with TF and a HoU influence which factors are perceived as important for TF use. Knowledge of these factors during the development and prescription process of TF may lead to increased compliance. Although the main medical reason for TF prescription is ulcer prevention, only 1 group gave this factor a high ranking. Therefore, next to focusing on influencing factors, person-centered education on the importance of using TF to prevent ulcers is also required.
Wild mammals involved in the transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi and food sources of Triatoma sherlocki in an endemic region of northeastern Brazil

The present study, carried out in the municipality of Gentio do Ouro, Bahia, Brazil aimed to evaluate which wild mammals may be involved in the transmission of T. cruzi and which are the blood sources for triatomines collected in the study area. PCR analysis of 31 wild mammals captured revealed T. cruzi infection in 6.4% (2/31): one specimen of the opossum Didelphis albiventris (1/3) and one of the rodent Kerodon rupestris (1/5); despite being more frequent in the area, no specimen of the rodent Thrichomys sp. (0/23) was infected. A total of 169 triatomines were captured. The conclusive detection of food sources was possible only for Triatoma sherlocki Papa et al., 2002 (n = 56), with evidence for: K. rupestris (35.7%), Gallus (17.9%), D. albiventris (14.3%), Homo sapiens (14.3%), Tropidurus hispidus (7.1%), Leopardus geoffroyi (5.3%), Conepatus semistriatus (1.8%), Thrichomys inermis (1.8%) and Rattus norvegicus (1.8%). Triatomines of the species T. sherlocki showed food eclecticism, including feeding on humans, with some of them being captured at dwellings. These facts make this triatomine a potential link for the transmission of T. cruzi between wild and anthropic environments, highlighting a latent risk of the reemergence of Chagas disease outbreaks.
Metabolic syndrome-related factors as possible targets for lower urinary tract symptoms in Korean males

Abstract Introduction A positive association between benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH)/lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) was reported in several studies, but studies from Asia often showed conflicting results. Materials and methods Medical records were obtained from a health promotion center database between 2021 and 2022. Men without a history of treatment for LUTS were evaluated using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), transrectal ultrasonography. Results Of 1345 individuals, 603 (44.8%) had MetS. Older age, higher IPSS values, higher prevalence rates of BPH and overactive bladder, higher triiodothyronine, and lower testosterone and sex-hormone binding globulin were observed in individuals with MetS than in individuals without MetS. The severity of LUTS significantly increased in the individuals with MetS (p = .002). In individuals with MetS, age, HbA1c, and cerebrovascular disease (CVD) were associated with IPSS. For OABSS, age, HbA1c, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), coronary artery occlusive disease, and CVD were identified as predictors. Conclusions We confirmed the positive correlation between MetS and BPH/LUTS in Korean. Factors including TSH and atherosclerosis affected LUTS in individuals with MetS. These findings suggested a potential role of thyroid hormones and atherosclerosis in the etiology and treatment of BPH/LUTS in patients with MetS.
Transmission Electron Microscopy Observation of CoSix Spikes in Si Substrates during Co-silicidation Process

Needle-like spikes penetrating into Si substrates have been detected by cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies of Co silicide/Si interfaces. The spikes are crystalline CoSix and form at annealing temperatures of 400–425° C, when the transformations of Co→Co2Si and Co2Si→CoSi are both taking place. They sometimes extend to the p/n junction depth of 100 nm. During annealing at above 500° C, they become spherical and their density decreases. The temperature range in which CoSix spikes are formed and extend to near the junction depth corresponds well with that for the onset of junction leakage. Therefore, this supports the conclusion that Co silicide junction leakage is caused by such spike formation.
The Prmt5-Vasa module is essential for spermatogenesis in Bombyx mori

In lepidopteran insects, dichotomous spermatogenesis produces eupyrene spermatozoa, which are nucleated, and apyrene spermatozoa, which are anucleated. Both sperm morphs are essential for fertilization, as eupyrene sperm fertilize the egg, and apyrene sperm is necessary for the migration of eupyrene sperm. In Drosophila, Prmt5 acts as a type II arginine methyltransferase that catalyzes the symmetrical dimethylation of arginine residues in the RNA helicase Vasa. Prmt5 is critical for the regulation of spermatogenesis, but Vasa is not. To date, functional genetic studies of spermatogenesis in the lepidopteran model Bombyx mori has been limited. In this study, we engineered mutations in BmPrmt5 and BmVasa through CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing. Both BmPrmt5 and BmVasa loss-of-function mutants had similar male and female sterility phenotypes. Through immunofluorescence staining analysis, we found that the morphs of sperm from both BmPrmt5 and BmVasa mutants have severe defects, indicating essential roles for both BmPrmt5 and BmVasa in the regulation of spermatogenesis. Mass spectrometry results identified that R35, R54, and R56 of BmVasa were dimethylated in WT while unmethylated in BmPrmt5 mutants. RNA-seq analyses indicate that the defects in spermatogenesis in mutants resulted from reduced expression of the spermatogenesis-related genes, including BmSxl, implying that BmSxl acts downstream of BmPrmt5 and BmVasa to regulate apyrene sperm development. These findings indicate that BmPrmt5 and BmVasa constitute an integral regulatory module essential for spermatogenesis in B. mori.
Automated detection of schizophrenia using deep learning: a review for the last decade

Schizophrenia (SZ) is a devastating mental disorder that disrupts higher brain functions like thought, perception, etc., with a profound impact on the individual’s life. Deep learning (DL) can detect SZ automatically by learning signal data characteristics hierarchically without the need for feature engineering associated with traditional machine learning. We performed a systematic review of DL models for SZ detection. Various deep models like long short-term memory, convolution neural networks, AlexNet, etc., and composite methods have been published based on electroencephalographic signals, and structural and/or functional magnetic resonance imaging acquired from SZ patients and healthy patients control subjects in diverse public and private datasets. The studies, the study datasets, and model methodologies are reported in detail. In addition, the challenges of DL models for SZ diagnosis and future works are discussed.
Conductance determined by transmission: probes and quantised constriction resistance

The domain of validity and the origin of different formulae relating conductance to transmissive behaviour is discussed. The large variety of possible measurement probes is emphasised. The quantised conductance of constrictions, studied in recent experiments, is treated. Theoretical discussions of that have stressed the supposedly unique role of G = (2e2/h)Tr(tt†) in this connection, regardless of the exact geometry or probe locations. This is shown to be incorrect, and a simple expression for the dependence of the 'quantised' conductance on the width of the wide region is given. We particularly emphasise the distinction between, on the one hand, experiments and discussions that are strictly limited to events at reservoirs and, on the other, those that have a concern with variations within the sample.
A fingerprint matching algorithm based on probabilistic graphical model and three-tree model

Fingerprint matching is the most important part in the field of fingerprint recognition. In this paper, a novel fingerprint matching algorithm based on the probabilistic graphical model and 3-tree model is proposed. First, minutiae matching problems are considered as a special point-set matching. Fingerprint minutiae are viewed as random variables. Each minutia pairs have some probability to be matched. Second, an algorithm is proposed to generate the graphical model and choose "signal points", which dynamically have corresponding points in other point set. We choose three base minutiae pairs as signal pairs. Third, the model is converted into a Junction Tree. A 3-tree model is built and the potentials of other minutiae pairs are calculated through Junction Tree (J.T.) algorithm. Then we translate the matching problem into the best matching problem of a weighted bipartite graph. Finally, the number of common matching pairs can be got through maximum flow algorithm. The similarity of two fingerprints is evaluated using the number of common matching pairs and the maximal posteriori probability. In order to deal with part-matching problems, we use the smallest convex hull which contains all the matched minutiae. Experiments evaluated on FVC 2004 show both effectiveness and efficiency of our methods.
Multiple Regulations of Parasitic Protozoan Viruses: A Double-Edged Sword for Protozoa

PPVs-based regulation of parasitic protozoa can provide a theoretical basis and direction for PPD prevention and control, although PPVs and PPV regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. In this review, we investigated the differences between PPVs and the unique properties of each virus regarding virus discovery, structures, and life cycles, focused on the Trichomonas vaginalis virus, Giardia lamblia virus, Leishmania RNA virus, and the Cryptosporidium parvum virus 1. ABSTRACT Parasite infections affect human and animal health significantly and contribute to a major burden on the global economy. Parasitic protozoan viruses (PPVs) affect the protozoan parasites’ morphology, phenotypes, pathogenicity, and growth rates. This discovery provides an opportunity to develop a novel preventive and therapeutic strategy for parasitic protozoan diseases (PPDs). Currently, there is greater awareness regarding PPVs; however, knowledge of viruses and their associations with host diseases remains limited. Parasite-host interactions become more complex owing to PPVs; however, few studies have investigated underlying viral regulatory mechanisms in parasites. In this study, we reviewed relevant studies to identify studies that investigated PPV development and life cycles, the triangular association between viruses, parasites, and hosts, and the effects of viruses on protozoan pathogenicity. This study highlights that viruses can alter parasite biology, and viral infection of parasites may exacerbate the adverse effects of virus-containing parasites on hosts or reduce parasite virulence. PPVs should be considered in the prevention of parasitic epidemics and outbreaks, although their effects on the host and the complexity of the triangular association between PPVs, protozoans, and hosts remain unclear. IMPORTANCE PPVs-based regulation of parasitic protozoa can provide a theoretical basis and direction for PPD prevention and control, although PPVs and PPV regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. In this review, we investigated the differences between PPVs and the unique properties of each virus regarding virus discovery, structures, and life cycles, focused on the Trichomonas vaginalis virus, Giardia lamblia virus, Leishmania RNA virus, and the Cryptosporidium parvum virus 1. The triangular association between PPVs, parasitic protozoa, and hosts reveals the “double-edged sword” property of PPVs, which maintains a balance between parasitic protozoa and hosts in both positive and negative respects. These studies discuss the complexity of parasitic protozoa and their co-existence with hosts and suggest novel pathways for using PPVs as tools to gain a deeper understanding of protozoal infection and treatment.
The Hong Kong youth epidemiological study of mental health (HK‐YES)—A population‐based psychiatric epidemiology study of youth mental health in Hong Kong: A study protocol

Young people in Hong Kong have been facing numerous population‐level events over the past year, including social unrest and the COVID‐19 pandemic. Representative data concerning the mental health of youths, however, is limited. The Hong Kong Youth Epidemiological Study of Mental Health (HK‐YES) is commissioned to provide the first representative prevalence estimates and correlates of mental disorders among young people in Hong Kong. It will also examine the help‐seeking behaviours, treatment rates, quality of life, and functional outcomes of the young people. More importantly, the direct and indirect economic costs of mental disorders in youths will be estimated.
Adaptive Exponential Synchronization of Uncertain Complex Dynamical Networks with Delay Coupling

This paper studies the global exponential synchronization of uncertain complex dynamical network with delay coupling. The network model considered is general dynamical delay networks with unknown network structure and unknown coupling functions but bounded. Novel adaptive controllers are designed via the Lyapunov stability theory. Especially, it is shown that the controlled networks are globally exponentially synchronized with a given convergence rate. An example of typical dynamical network, having the Lorenz system at each node, has been used to demonstrate and verify the novel design proposed. And, the numerical simulation results show the effectiveness of proposed synchronization approaches.
A Robust Pipeline for the Multi‐Stage Accelerated Differentiation of Functional 3D Cortical Organoids from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells

Disordered cellular development, abnormal neuroanatomical formations, and dysfunction of neuronal circuitry are among the pathological manifestations of cortical regions in the brain that are often implicated in complex neurodevelopmental disorders. With the advancement of stem cell methodologies such as cerebral organoid generation, it is possible to study these processes in vitro using 3D cellular platforms that mirror key developmental stages occurring throughout embryonic neurogenesis. Patterning‐based stem cell models of directed neuronal development offer one approach to accomplish this, but these protocols often require protracted periods of cell culture to generate diverse cell types and current methods are plagued by a lack of specificity, reproducibility, and temporal control over cell derivation. Although ectopic expression of transcription factors offers another avenue to rapidly generate neurons, this process of direct lineage conversion bypasses critical junctures of neurodevelopment during which disease‐relevant manifestations may occur. Here, we present a directed differentiation approach for generating human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)‐derived cortical organoids with accelerated lineage specification to generate functionally mature cortical neurons in a shorter timeline than previously established protocols. This novel protocol provides precise guidance for the specification of neuronal cell type identity as well as temporal control over the pace at which cortical lineage trajectories are established. Furthermore, we present assays that can be used as tools to interrogate stage‐specific developmental signaling mechanisms. By recapitulating major components of embryonic neurogenesis, this protocol allows for improved in vitro modeling of cortical development while providing a platform that can be utilized to uncover disease‐specific mechanisms of disordered development at various stages across the differentiation timeline. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Morning Glory Wave Clouds in Oklahoma: A Case Study

Abstract Early in the morning on 9 June 1982 a system of traveling wave cloud lines passed over 0klahoma, and in particular, over the relatively dense mesonetwork of surface stations, including the instrumented 444 m KTVY television tower, operated by the U.S. National Severe Storms Laboratory. An analysis of the network and other data presented herein shows that, in structure, the associated disturbance was an internal undular bore propagating on a low-level stable layer, similar to “morning glory”-type disturbances, which are common at certain times of the year in parts of northern Australia. Moreover, the speed of propagation of the component bore-waves is in broad agreement with theoretical calculations. There is evidence that the disturbance emanated late the previous evening from an area of rapidly growing intense thunderstorms located more than 400 km north-northwest of the surface mesonetwork. Possible mechanisms for generation are discussed, but the data pertaining to genesis are insufficient to .
Opening the black box of psychological treatments for chronic pain: A clinical perspective for medical providers

Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative & Pain Medicine, Division of Pain Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Veterans Administration Puget Sound Health Care, Seattle, Washington, USA Department of Health Systems and Population Health, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA Rehabilitation Care Services, Veterans Administration Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, Washington, USA Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA Clinical Learning, Evidence, and Research (CLEAR) Center, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
The morphology of a bright rim in NGC 2264 : early stages of high-mass star formation

We present molecular line observations of one of the bright rims in NGC 2264, with the objective of studying the physics of the interaction between the ionizing flux from a young star and a molecular cloud. We have observed the gas to the west of S Mon, where we find a morphology which indicates interaction with the ionizing radiation from this star. Our data consist mainly of high angular resolution (20″) maps of the 12 CO and 13 CO J=3→2 transitions, obtained with the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory
Viral infections in critical care: a narrative review

Viral infections form a substantial part of the intensive care workload, even before the recent and ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic. The growing availability of molecular diagnostics for viral infections has led to increased recognition of these pathogens. This additional information, however, provides new challenges for interpretation and management. As the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic has amply demonstrated, the emergence and global spread of novel viruses are likely to provide continued challenges for critical care physicians into the future. This article will provide an overview of viral infections relevant to the critical care physician, discussing the diagnosis and management of respiratory viral infections, blood borne and enteric viruses. We will also discuss herpesviridae complications, commonly seen due to reactivation of latent infections. Further, we explore some rarer and emerging viruses, including recognition of viral haemorrhagic fevers, and briefly discuss post‐viral syndromes which may present to the intensive care unit. Finally, we will discuss infection control and its importance in preventing nosocomial viral transmission.
EEG-based functional brain networks: hemispheric differences in males and females

Functional connectivity in human brain can be represented as a network using electroencephalography (EEG) signals. Network representation of EEG time series can be an efficient vehicle to understand the underlying mechanisms of brain function. Brain functional networks whose nodes are brain regions and edges correspond to functional links between them are characterized by neurobiologically meaningful graph theory metrics. This study investigates the degree to which graph theory metrics are sex dependent. To this end, EEGs from 24 healthy female subjects and 21 healthy male subjects were recorded in eyes-closed resting state conditions. The connectivity matrices were extracted using correlation analysis and were further binarized to obtain binary functional networks. Global and local efficiency measures as graph theory metrics were computed for the extracted networks. We found that male brains have significantly greater global efficiency (i.e., global communicability of the network) across all frequency bands for a wide range of cost values in both hemispheres. Furthermore, for a range of cost values, female brains showed significantly greater right-hemispheric local efficiency (i.e., local connectivity) than male brains.