Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Machine Learning Quantitative Analysis of FDG PET Images of Medial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy Patients

Supplemental digital content is available in the text. Purpose 18F-FDG PET is widely used in epilepsy surgery. We established a robust quantitative algorithm for the lateralization of epileptogenic foci and examined the value of machine learning of 18F-FDG PET data in medial temporal lobe epilepsy (MTLE) patients. Patients and Methods We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent surgery for MTLE. Three clinicians identified the side of MTLE epileptogenesis by visual inspection. The surgical side was set as the epileptogenic side. Two parcellation paradigms and corresponding atlases (Automated Anatomical Labeling and FreeSurfer aparc + aseg) were used to extract the normalized PET uptake of the regions of interest (ROIs). The lateralization index of the MTLE-associated regions in either hemisphere was calculated. The lateralization indices of each ROI were subjected for machine learning to establish the model for classifying the side of MTLE epileptogenesis. Result Ninety-three patients were enrolled for training and validation, and another 11 patients were used for testing. The hit rate of lateralization by visual analysis was 75.3%. Among the 23 patients whose MTLE side of epileptogenesis was incorrectly determined or for whom no conclusion was reached by visual analysis, the Automated Anatomical Labeling and aparc + aseg parcellated the associated ROIs on the correctly lateralized MTLE side in 100.0% and 82.6%. In the testing set, lateralization accuracy was 100% in the 2 paradigms. Conclusions Visual analysis of 18F-FDG PET to lateralize MTLE epileptogenesis showed a lower hit rate compared with machine-assisted interpretation. While reviewing 18F-FDG PET images of MTLE patients, considering the regions associated with MTLE resulted in better performance than limiting analysis to hippocampal regions.
A 10-Year Retrospective before-and-after Study of Lipedema Surgery: Patient-Reported Lipedema-Associated Symptom Improvement after Multistage Liposuction

Background: Despite an increasing demand for surgical treatment of lipedema, the evidence for liposuction is still limited. Little is known about the influence of disease stage, patient age, body mass index, or existing comorbidities on clinical outcomes. It was hypothesized that younger patients with lower body mass index and stage would report better results. Methods: This retrospective, single-center, noncomparative study included lipedema patients who underwent liposuction between July of 2009 and July of 2019. After a minimum of 6 months since the last surgery, all patients completed a disease-related questionnaire. The primary endpoint was the need for complex decongestive therapy based on a composite score. Secondary endpoints were the severity of disease-related complaints measured on a visual analogue scale. Results: One hundred six patients underwent a total of 298 large-volume liposuctions (mean lipoaspirate, 6355 ± 2797 ml). After a median follow-up of 20 months, a median complex decongestive therapy score reduction of 37.5 percent (interquartile range, 0 to 88.8 percent; p < 0.0001) was observed. An improvement in lipedema-associated symptoms was also observed (p < 0.0001). The percentage reduction in complex decongestive therapy scores was greater in patients with a body mass index less than or equal to 35 kg/m2 (p < 0.0001) and in stage I and II patients (p = 0.0019). Conclusion: Liposuction reduces the severity of symptoms and the need for conservative treatment in lipedema patients, especially if it is performed in patients with a body mass index below 35 kg/m2 at an early stage of the disease. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.
Translation and validation of the speech, spatial, and qualities of hearing scale (SSQ) and the hearing environments and reflection on quality of life (HEAR-QL) questionnaire for children and adolescents in Dutch

Abstract Objective To date, no hearing-specific self-report tool is available in Dutch to give insight into how deficits in auditory skills are experienced by a child in daily life or to examine the impact of hearing loss on children’s quality of life. Therefore, we aimed to translate and validate the Speech, Spatial, and Qualities of Hearing Scale (SSQ) and the Hearing Environments and Reflection on Quality of Life (HEAR-QL) Questionnaire for children and adolescents into Dutch. Design Translation of the questionnaires into Dutch was conducted by means of the forward-backward procedure. Participants were invited to complete the questionnaires digitally. We examined discriminant validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability. Study sample A total of 121 subjects between 7 and 18 years old were included, of which 54 normal hearing and 67 bilaterally hearing-impaired subjects. Hearing-impaired subjects were fitted with hearing aids, bone conductive devices and/or cochlear implants. Results All questionnaires were shown to significantly discriminate between the normal hearing and the hearing-impaired group. Satisfying internal consistency and good test-retest reliability were found. Conclusions The Dutch SSQ and HEAR-QL questionnaires for children and adolescents appear to be valid and reliable self-report tools for management and follow-up of those with hearing loss.
Effects of stabilizing reversal technique and vestibular rehabilitation exercise on dizziness and balance ability in patients with vestibular neuritis

Abstract Vestibular neuritis is a common disease of peripheral dizziness. Studies have shown that vestibular rehabilitation exercise (VRE) and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) are effective to treat the symptoms of vestibular neuritis. However, the effect of VRE and PNF on the balance ability and dizziness in this patient cohort remains unclear. The aim of our observational study was to determine the changes in dizziness and balance ability of patients with vestibular neuritis who participated in the VRE program with stabilizing reversal technique (SRT). The reporting of this study conforms to the STROBE statement. Ten men and women aged ≥ 20 years who were diagnosed with vestibular neuritis were included. Patients performed VRE with SRT for 4 weeks with assistance from a therapist. VRE without SRT can also be performed at home. Dizziness was evaluated using the dizziness handicap inventory (DHI) and visual analog scale (VAS). Balance ability was assessed using the Berg's balance scale (BBS) and timed up and go test (TUG). At pre- and post-exercise, paired t test was performed to compare the within-group differences. After the program, DHI (45.40 ± 6.74 to 21.00 ± 7.07), VAS (5.90 ± 1.20 to 2.80 ± 0.92), BBS (45.10 ± 2.77 to 52.70 ± 1.83), and TUG (15.29 ± 1.13 to 12.06 ± 1.61) scores improved significantly in the VRE program group (P = .05). The VRE program combined with SRT was effective in reducing dizziness and increasing balance ability in patients with vestibular neuritis.
A Multimodal Neural-Recording IC With Reconfigurable Analog Front-Ends for Improved Availability and Usability for Recording Channels

In this work, we present an 8-channel reconfigurable multimodal neural-recording IC, which provides improved availability and usability of recording channels in various experiment scenarios. Each recording channel changes its configuration depending on whether the channel is assigned to record voltage or current signal. As a result, although the total number of channels is fixed by design, the channels utilized for voltage and current recording can be set freely and optimally for given experiment targets, scenarios, and circumstances, maximizing the availability and usability of recording channels.The proposed concept was demonstrated by fabricating the IC using a standard 180-nm CMOS process.Using the IC, we successfully performed an in vivo experiment from the hippocampal area of a mouse brain. The measured input noise of the reconfigurable front-end is 4.75 μVrms at voltage-recording mode and 7.4 pArms at current-recording mode while consuming 5.72 μW/channel.
Perioperative hypothermia in open and laparoscopic colorectal surgery

The consequences of even mild inadvertent perioperative hypothermia (IPH) are significant. There is a perception laparoscopic abdominal surgery is less prone to cause hypothermia than open surgery. However, during laparoscopic surgery, the peritoneal cavity is insufflated with carbon dioxide, which has a greater evaporative capacity than ambient air. This study compared the intra‐operative temperature profile of patients undergoing open and laparoscopic colorectal surgery to define the incidence and severity of hypothermia.
Current and Novel Treatment Strategies in Children with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Background: The standard treatment for congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) in children is still hydrocortisone. Improved strategies for timing of the dose during the day and the dose per square meter body surface area used in children of different ages and developmental phases have improved the situation and outcome for the patients. Neonatal screening enables an earlier diagnosis and initiation of treatment, prevents from adrenal crisis, and improves growth and development also for children with the less severe forms of CAH. Summary: This review describes the current treatment strategies for children with CAH and discusses some potential treatment options that have been developed with the primary aim to decrease the adrenal androgen production. Novel modified release glucocorticoid therapies are also discussed. Key Messages: The long-term effects of the new adjunct therapies are unknown, and some are not suitable for use in children and adolescents. The effects of the new therapies on bone mineral density, gonadal functions, and long-term cognitive development are yet to be assessed. It is not known what levels of adrenal androgens are optimal for normal growth, puberty, and bone health. The basis of using glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids in the treatment of CAH remains, and in some individuals, it may be beneficial to add therapies to reduce the androgen load during certain life stages.
Ethylene response factor MdERF4 and histone deacetylase MdHDA19 suppress apple fruit ripening through histone deacetylation of ripening-related genes

Abstract Histone deacetylase enzymes participate in the regulation of many aspects of plant development. However, the genome-level targets of histone deacetylation during apple (Malus domestica) fruit development have not been resolved in detail, and the mechanisms of regulation of such a process are unknown. We previously showed that the complex of ethylene response factor 4 (MdERF4) and the TOPLESS co-repressor (MdTPL4; MdERF4–MdTPL4) is constitutively active during apple fruit development (Hu et al., 2020), but whether this transcriptional repression complex is coupled to chromatin modification is unknown. Here, we show that a histone deacetylase (MdHDA19) is recruited to the MdERF4–MdTPL4 complex, thereby impacting fruit ethylene biosynthesis. Transient suppression of MdHDA19 expression promoted fruit ripening and ethylene production. To identify potential downstream target genes regulated by MdHDA19, we conducted chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) sequencing of H3K9 and ChIP-quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays. We found that MdHDA19 affects ethylene production by facilitating H3K9 deacetylation and forms a complex with MdERF4–MdTPL4 to directly repress MdACS3a expression by decreasing the degree of acetylation. We demonstrate that an early-maturing-specific acetylation H3K9ac peak in MdACS3a and expression of MdACS3a were specifically up-regulated in fruit of an early-maturing, but not a late-maturing, cultivar. We provide evidence that a C-to-G mutation in the ethylene-responsive element binding factor-associated amphiphilic repression motif of MdERF4 reduces the repression of MdACS3a by the MdERF4–MdTPL4–MdHDA19 complex. Taken together, our results reveal that the MdERF4–MdTPL–MdHDA19 repressor complex participates in the epigenetic regulation of apple fruit ripening.
Therapeutic role of immunomodulators during the COVID-19 pandemic– a narrative review

ABSTRACT The emergency state caused by COVID-19 saw the use of immunomodulators despite the absence of robust research. To date, the results of relatively few randomized controlled trials have been published, and methodological approaches are riddled with bias and heterogeneity. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, convalescent plasma and the JAK inhibitor baricitinib have gained Emergency Use Authorizations and tentative recommendations for their use in clinical practice alone or in combination with other therapies. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies are predominating the management of non-hospitalized patients, while the inpatient setting is seeing the use of convalescent plasma, baricitinib, tofacitinib, tocilizumab, sarilumab, and corticosteroids, as applicable. Available clinical data also suggest the potential clinical benefit of the early administration of blood-derived products (e.g. convalescent plasma, non-SARS-CoV-2-specific immunoglobins) and the blockade of factors implicated in the hyperinflammatory state of severe COVID-19 (Interleukin 1 and 6; Janus Kinase). Immune therapies seem to have a protective effect and using immunomodulators alone or in combination with viral replication inhibitors and other treatment modalities might prevent progression into severe COVID-19 disease, cytokine storm and death. Future trials should address existing gaps and reshape the landscape of COVID-19 management.
Beyond the pain: A qualitative study exploring the physical therapy experience in patients with chronic low back pain

ABSTRACT Background Chronic low back pain (cLBP) is a complex condition that is physically and psychologically debilitating, with vulnerable populations experiencing more severe outcomes. Physical therapy (PT) includes evidence-based treatments that can reduce disability, however the experience of PT can vary amongst different populations. Empirical evidence is largely based on majority samples that are predominantly white with high educational attainment. Little is known regarding how people from vulnerable groups (e.g. low income and racial minority) experience physical therapy treatment for low back pain. Objective To describe the experience of physical therapy in a predominantly low-income and minority population with cLBP. Methods This qualitative study was embedded within a randomized controlled trial for patients with cLBP in urban, underserved communities. We used a convenience sample to interview 12 participants from the 102 who participated in the PT arm of the trial and then performed thematic analysis to describe their experience. Results Three major themes emerged: 1) Empowerment through education and exercise; 2) Interconnectedness to providers and other patients; and 3) Improvements in pain, body mechanics, and mood. Divergent cases were few however centered around a lack of improvement in pain or an absence of connection with the therapist. Within the first theme a prevailing sub-theme emerged that aligned with Bandura’s theory of self-efficacy: 1) Mastery of experience; 2) Verbal persuasion; 3) Vicarious experience; and 4) Physiological state. Conclusions Our participants’ insight highlighted the value of cognitive-emotional and interpersonal dimensions of PT. These may be particularly important components of PT in populations that have experienced systemic distrust in providers and disparities in services. Future work could use Bandura’s model of self-efficacy to build a PT intervention comprised of fear-based movement exercises, interconnectedness, a strong therapeutic alliance, and mindfulness techniques.
Xylazole inhibits NO-cGMP pathway in fetal rat nerve cells

Background Xylazole (Xyl) is a veterinary anesthetic that is structurally and functionally similar to xylazine. However, the effects of Xyl in vitro remain unknown. Objectives This study aimed to investigate the anesthetic mechanism of Xyl using fetal rat nerve cells treated with Xyl. Methods Fetal rat nerve cells cultured for seven days were treated with 10, 20, 30, and 40 μg/ mL Xyl for 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min. Variations of amino acid neurotransmitters (AANTs), Nitric oxide-Cyclic GMP (NO-cGMP) signaling pathway, and ATPase were evaluated. Results Xyl decreased the levels of cGMP and NO in nerve cells. Furthermore, Xyl affected the AANT content and Na+-K+-ATPase and Ca2+-Mg2+-ATPase activity in nerve cells. These findings suggested that Xyl inhibited the NO-cGMP signaling pathway in nerve cells in vitro. Conclusions This study provided new evidence that the anesthetic and analgesic effects of Xyl are related to the inhibition of the NO-cGMP signaling pathway.
Macrophages facilitate peripheral nerve regeneration by organizing regeneration tracks through Plexin-B2

In this study, Li et al. investigated the mechanisms underlying the regeneration of peripheral nerves, which is guided by regeneration tracks formed through an interplay of many cell types. They demonstrate that macrophages are mobilized ahead of Schwann cells in the nerve bridge after transection injury to participate in building regeneration tracks. This requires the function of guidance receptor Plexin-B2, which is robustly up-regulated in infiltrating macrophages in injured nerve.
Superior hydrophobic silica-coated quantum dot for stable optical performance in humid environments

Quantum dot (QD) features many exceptional optical performances but is also vulnerable to moisture which results in structural damage and luminescent decrease. This work provided and fabricated a novel superior hydrophobic methylated core/shell silica-coated QD (MSQ) for high water stability. QD was coated with a silica shell and then surface-methylated by trimethyl silane. Mercaptopropyl trimethoxy silane, tetraethyl orthosilicate, and ethoxy trimethyl silane were utilized as the ligand exchanger, the raw material of silica, and the surface modification, respectively. Characterization results illustrated the core/shell structure of MSQ. In addition, its water contact angle was up to 159.6°. QD-, silica-coated QD(SQ)-, and MSQ-silicone were made and displayed similar absorption, emission, and excitation spectra but different water stabilities. The photoluminescence intensity and photoluminescence quantum yield of MSQ-silicone hardly changed during 15 d of water immersion, in contrast to the dramatical decrease of other two kinds of composite silicone. Specifically, the photoluminescence quantum yield decreases of MSQ-, SQ-, and QD-silicone were 1%, 40%, and 43%, respectively. Therefore, MSQ had a much better water stability. The superior hydrophobic methylated silica-coated QD has a great potential to realize the long-term working stability in a humid environment and the wider application in diverse fields.
Prevalence of Internet Addiction Among Iranian University Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to estimate the overall prevalence of Internet addiction among Iranian university students. A total of 49 articles written in Persian or English, without time limitation, were gathered. Databases of Scientific Information Database, MagIran, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched during the period from February 13 to March 13, 2018. The following keywords and their possible combinations were used: Iran, student, Internet dependency, Internet addiction, and problematic Internet use. The Cochran's Q test was used to test the heterogeneity among the studies, and because heterogeneity was not significant, the random effects model was used to estimate the overall prevalence of Internet addiction. Data analysis was performed using STATA, version 12. Meta-analysis of 49 selected articles with a total sample size of 16,585 indicated that the overall prevalence of Internet addiction among Iranian students was 31.51 percent (95% confidence interval: 26.47-36.55). In addition, meta-regression analysis showed no significant relationship between Internet addiction and year of publication (p = 0.972) and sample size (p = 0.915). About one-third of Iranian students have Internet addiction. It is necessary to provide training workshops on learning about the consequences of Internet addiction and its management.
Modeling tuberous sclerosis with organoids

Description Single-cell profiling reveals a different path for the development of brain lesions Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a devastating disease characterized by distinctive tumors of the skin (angiofibromas), brain [cortical tubers, subependymal nodules (SENs), and subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGAs)], heart (rhabdomyomas), lungs [lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM)], and kidney (angiomyolipomas and renal cell carcinoma) (1). Neurologic manifestations can also include seizures and TSC-associated neuropsychiatric disorder, which encompasses aggressive behaviors, autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disability, and psychiatric disorders. TSC is caused by heterozygous germline mutations that inactivate TSC1 or TSC2, which normally inhibit mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1). mTORC1 inhibitors are used for the treatment of brain, lung, and kidney tumors and seizures but do not improve all symptoms, and uncertainty persists about how brain tumorigenesis begins. On page 401 of this issue, Eichmüller et al. (2) identify a precursor cell that generates cortical tuber–like and subependymal tumor–like cells, increasing the understanding of neurological manifestations of TSC.
Getting Started with the IDG KMC Datasets and Tools

The Illuminating the Druggable Genome (IDG) consortium is a National Institutes of Health (NIH) Common Fund program designed to enhance our knowledge of under‐studied proteins, more specifically, proteins unannotated within the three most commonly drug‐targeted protein families: G‐protein coupled receptors, ion channels, and protein kinases. Since 2014, the IDG Knowledge Management Center (IDG‐KMC) has generated several open‐access datasets and resources that jointly serve as a highly translational machine‐learning‐ready knowledgebase focused on human protein‐coding genes and their products. The goal of the IDG‐KMC is to develop comprehensive integrated knowledge for the druggable genome to illuminate the uncharacterized or poorly annotated portion of the druggable genome. The tools derived from the IDG‐KMC provide either user‐friendly visualizations or ways to impute the knowledge about potential targets using machine learning strategies. In the following protocols, we describe how to use each web‐based tool to accelerate illumination in under‐studied proteins. © 2022 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.