Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Transgene Bioconfinement: Don’t Flow There

The adoption of genetically engineered (GE) crops has led to economic and environmental benefits. However, there are regulatory and environmental concerns regarding the potential movement of transgenes beyond cultivation. These concerns are greater for GE crops with high outcrossing frequencies to sexually compatible wild relatives and those grown in their native region. Newer GE crops may also confer traits that enhance fitness, and introgression of these traits could negatively impact natural populations. Transgene flow could be lessened or prevented altogether through the addition of a bioconfinement system during transgenic plant production. Several bioconfinement approaches have been designed and tested and a few show promise for transgene flow prevention. However, no system has been widely adopted despite nearly three decades of GE crop cultivation. Nonetheless, it may be necessary to implement a bioconfinement system in new GE crops or in those where the potential of transgene flow is high. Here, we survey such systems that focus on male and seed sterility, transgene excision, delayed flowering, as well as the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 to reduce or eliminate transgene flow. We discuss system utility and efficacy, as well as necessary features for commercial adoption.
IRAS Low-Resolution Spectral Observations of H II Regions

Abundances of neon and sulfur for 95 H II regions whose spectra were measured by the IRAS Low Resolution Spectrometer (LRS) are determined; and theoretical implications of the neon ionization level and the sulfur-to-neon abundance ratio are discussed. The abundances show a distinct gradient of Ne/H with respect to Galactocentric radius RG, and a smaller gradient for S/H. The neon ionization is high only for sources with both low neon abundance and high luminosity. It is concluded that, due to the fact that the luminosities observed are so high compared to those predicted for the zero-age main sequence star, the most luminous H II regions are probably excited by several stars or a cluster of stars. The observed ionization of neon shows that the effective temperatures of the exciting stars cannot be more than 40,000 K, with an alternative explanation that 04 and 03 stars have Lyman continuum spectra cooler than the 45,000 - 50,000 K effective temperatures that are found for their visible and UV spectra. 109 refs.
Dielectric laser acceleration by TPP fabricated microstructures for ultrarelativistic electrons

In the ultrarelativistic limit it is possible to greatly simplify the manifestly covariant equations of motion for an electron. As such, we can bypass the need for constantly synchronizing the phase of the incident laser field with the electron as it propagates through the periodic enhanced laser near-field. Therefore, using FDTD numeric simulations, realized in MEEP, we propagate the field through the microstructure configuration. After optimizing the near-field energy density by sweeping the parameter space we have compared our semi-analytic result with a fully numeric integration realized using the package DifferentialEquations.jl from the Julia programming language. Finally, once we have an adequate design, we fabricated the 3D microstructures using laser direct writing via TPP (two photon polymerization). The technological limits such as fabrication tolerances have been tested and optimisation steps have been established.
Sow Nutrition, Uterine Contractions, and Placental Blood Flow during the Peri-Partum Period and Short-Term Effects on Offspring: A Review

Simple Summary A long birthing process is not only stressful for both the sow and her piglets, it also decreases the chances of survival of piglets during birth or in the first days of life. Oxygen supply from the mother to the fetus via placenta and umbilical cord is crucial. This oxygen supply may be impaired by successive uterine contractions, partly or completely blocking placental and/or umbilical blood flow. Providing the mother with the right amount of energy and other nutrients needed for the birthing process could reduce its duration and, as a consequence, increase peri-partum piglet survival. In addition, nutrients that enhance blood flow (and therefore oxygen flow) to piglets during birth may also impact piglet survival. Abstract The birth process is a crucial event for piglet survival. Along with increasing litter sizes, not only has the duration of parturition increased, but placental blood flow per piglet has reduced and placental area per piglet has become smaller, making these piglets more susceptible for hypoxia. Diminishing the risk of piglet hypoxia by either reducing the total duration of parturition or increasing fetal oxygenation may reduce the incidence of stillbirth and early post-partum mortality. This review discusses options to do so by nutritionally supporting the sow in the final pre-partum period, after discussing the role of uterine contractions and placental blood flow. Providing sufficient energy seems to be a logical first step, but also other nutrients needed for uterine contractions, such as calcium, or enhancing uterine blood flow by using nitrate seem promising. These nutrient requirements may depend on litter size.
Road Rage and Aggressive Driving Behaviour Detection in Usage-Based Insurance Using Machine Learning

Driving behaviour is a critical issue in modern transportation systems due to the increasing concerns about the safety of drivers, passengers, and road users. Machine learning models are capable of learning driving patterns from sensor data and recognizing individuals by their driving behaviours. This paper presents a novel framework for aggressive driving detection and driver classification based on driving events identified from GPS data collected with smartphones and heart rate of the driver captured with a wearable device. The proposed system for road rage and aggressive driving detection (RAD) is realized with an integral framework with components for data acquisition, event detection, driver classification, and model interpretability. The system is implemented by generating a prediction model by training machine learning classifiers with a dataset collected in a cohort to classify drivers into good, unhealthy, road rage, and always bad. The proposed system is to improve road safety and to customize insurance premiums in the best interest of policy holders and insurance companies.
Development of a baby friendly non-contact method for measuring vital signs: First results of clinical measurements in an open incubator at a neonatal intensive care unit

For infants and neonates in an incubator vital signs, such as heart rate, breathing, skin temperature and blood oxygen saturation are measured by sensors and electrodes sticking to the skin. This can damage the vulnerable skin of neonates and cause infections. In addition, the wires interfere with the care and hinder the parents in holding and touching the baby. These problems initiated the search for baby friendly 'non-contact' measurement of vital signs. Using a sensitive color video camera and specially developed software, the heart rate was derived from subtle repetitive color changes. Potentially also respiration and oxygen saturation could be obtained. A thermal camera was used to monitor the temperature distribution of the whole body and detect small temperature variations around the nose revealing the respiration rate. After testing in the laboratory, seven babies were monitored (with parental consent) in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) simultaneously with the regular monitoring equipment. From the color video recordings accurate heart rates could be derived and the thermal images provided accurate respiration rates. To correct for the movements of the baby, tracking software could be applied. At present, the image processing was performed off-line. Using narrow band light sources also non-contact blood oxygen saturation could be measured. Non-contact monitoring of vital signs has proven to be feasible and can be developed into a real time system. Besides the application on the NICU non-contact vital function monitoring has large potential for other patient groups.
Cyclic Glycine-Proline Improves Memory and Reduces Amyloid Plaque Load in APP/PS1 Transgenic Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition that is pathologically characterized by the presence of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Animal models of AD have been useful in understanding the disease process and in investigating the effects of compounds on pathology and behavior. APP/PS1 mice develop amyloid plaques and show memory impairment. Cyclic glycine-proline (cGP) is a cyclic dipeptide that is likely produced from a tripeptide, glycine-proline-glutamate, which itself is generated after proteolytic cleavage of insulin-like growth factor-1. Here, we show that cGP improves spatial memory and reduces amyloid plaque burden in APP/PS1 mice. The results thus suggest that cGP could potentially provide beneficial effects in AD.
The molecular characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment of macrolide-resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children

The purpose of this study is to review the molecular characteristics, the diagnosis, and treatment of the widespread infection of macrolide-resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae; MRMP) in children, thus providing a better knowledge of this infection and presenting the associated problems. Single point mutations in the V region of the 23S rRNA gene of M. pneumoniae genome are associated with macrolide resistance. P1–1, MLVA4-5-7-2, and ST3 are usually the predominated genetic types in the M. pneumoniae epidemics. The short-term two times serological IgM (or together with IgG) test in the acute stage can be used for confirmation. Combined serological testing and PCR might be a more prudent method to reduce macrolide consumption and antibiotic selective pressure in a clinical setting. Molecular methods for the detection of single-nucleotide mutations in the V region of the 23S rRNA gene can be used for the diagnosis of MRMP. The routine use of macrolide for the treatment of macrolide-sensitive Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MSMP) infections can get good effect, but the effects are limited for severe MRMP infections. Additional corticosteroids may be required for the treatment of severe MRMP infections in children in China during the era of MRMP.
Seismic angle tomography

One of the main challenges in seismic imaging is the estimation of sufficiently accurate background velocity models in the presence of complex geology. In this paper we show the use of a differential semblance in angle or DSA (Symes and Carazzone, 1991; Brandsberg-Dahl et al., 2003) misfit function to perform ray-based angle tomography on PP and its extension to PS reflection events. This measure is optimal as it is the only measure that depends smoothly on the velocity model.
Analysis of the Effect of 0-π SQUIDs for Enhancing Mutual Coupling

This study shows that we can obtain an enhanced mutual coupling by using a superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) containing a π-phase shift Josephson junction (π-junction). The π-junction can increase the current flowing in the loop inductance of the SQUID, thereby enhancing the magnetic flux generated in the inductance. Therefore, the effective self-inductance of the SQUID can increase, resulting in an increase in the mutual coupling. We use a 0-π SQUID formed by a conventional Josephson junction (0-junction) and a π-junction. Our numerical analysis for a simplified structure revealed that the ratio of effective to original self-inductance increased to 50. To confirm this, we measured the modulation patterns of critical current in dc-SQUIDs in which part of the loop inductance was replaced with a series of 0-π SQUIDs. The observed modulation pattern revealed that the effective self-inductance became more than 10-fold larger than the original self-inductance under the conditions that the applied current is a few μA while the critical current of the 0-junction in 0-π SQUIDs is 35 μA.
Supramarginal Gyrus and Angular Gyrus Subcortical Connections: A Microanatomical and Tractographic Study for Neurosurgeons

Abstract Background and Objectives: This article aims to investigate the subcortical microanatomy of the supramarginal gyrus (SMG) and angular gyrus (AnG) using a microfiber dissection technique and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)/fiber tractography (FT). The cortical and subcortical structures of this region are highly functional, and their lesions often present clinically. For this reason, the possibility of post-surgical deficits is high. We focused on the supramarginal gyrus and the angular gyrus and reviewed their anatomy from a topographic, functional and surgical point of view, and aimed to raise awareness especially for neurosurgeons. Methods: Four previously frozen, formalin-fixed human brains were examined under the operating microscope using the fiber dissection technique. Four hemispheres were dissected from medial to lateral under the surgical microscope. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of 20 healthy adults was examined. Pre-central and post-central gyrus were preserved to achieve topographic dominance in dissections of brain specimens. Each stage was photographed. Tractographic brain magnetic resonance imaging of 10 healthy adults was examined radiologically. Focusing on the supramarginal and angular gyrus, the white matter fibers passing under this region and their intersection areas were examined. These two methods were compared anatomically from the lateral view and radiologically from the sagittal view. Results: SMG and AnG were determined in brain specimens. The pre-central and post-central gyrus were topographically preserved. The superior and medial temporal gyrus, and inferior and superior parietal areas were decorticated from lateral to medial. U fibers, superior longitudinal fasciculus II (SLF II), superior longitudinal fasciculus III (SLF III), arcuat fasciculus (AF) and middle longitudinal fasciculus (MdLF) fiber groups were shown and subcortical fiber structures belonging to these regions were visualized by the DTI/FT method. The subcortical fiber groups under the SMG and the AnG were observed anatomically and radiologically to have a dense and complex structure. Conclusions: Due to the importance of the subcortical connections of SMG and AnG on speech function, tumoral lesions and surgeries of this region are of particular importance. The anatomical architecture of the complex subcortical structure, which is located on the projection of the SMG and AnG areas, was shown with a DTI/FT examination under a topographic dominance, preserving the pre-central and post-central gyrus. In this study, the importance of the anatomical localization, connections and functions of the supramarginal and angular gyrus was examined. More anatomical and radiological studies are needed to better understand this region and its connections.
Case report: Long-term survival in a patient with metastatic colorectal cancer treated with trifluridine/tipiracil in the third-line setting

Third-line treatment with trifluridine/tipiracil (FTD/TPI) is recommended for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) or gastric/gastroesophageal cancer (GC) who have progressed beyond first- and second-line therapy. We describe a patient with long-term survival following treatment with FTD/TPI. The patient, a 70-year-old woman diagnosed with right-sided mCRC (T3/N1) with metastases to the aortocaval and precaval lymph nodes, received first-line panitumumab and capecitabine for 6 months, followed by second-line bevacizumab and oxaliplatin. She had disease progression following 9 months of second-line therapy and began third-line treatment with FTD/TPI (50 mg bid). Three months after treatment initiation, lymph node involvement was reduced, and following 12 months of FTD/TPI treatment, her disease had stabilized, and she reported no treatment-related adverse events. She remained on the same dose of FTD/TPI for more than 27 months after initiating treatment, with maintenance of stable disease. This patient with mCRC demonstrated a survival benefit with FTD/TPI beyond those reported in published clinical trial data and real-world studies.
An Integrated Monte Carlo Model for Heterogeneous Glioblastoma Treated with Boron Neutron Capture Therapy

Simple Summary Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive type of astrocytic glioma. GBMs are diffuse infiltrating tumours that present with extensive hypoxia and genetic heterogeneity amongst other features that have rendered treatment strategies ineffectual, despite recent advances in multimodality therapy regimens. The prognosis remains poor and median survival is less than 17 months using adjuvant chemotherapy and X-ray external radiotherapy. Therefore, strategies should be investigated to target complications associated with this malignancy. A targeted approach with high linear energy transfer particles could address infiltration and cellular aggressiveness (e.g., heterogeneity, hypoxia, and intrinsic radiosensitivity) issues, respectively. Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT), a biochemically-targeted modality, proposes an attractive solution for GBM. A hybrid computational framework was previously developed by our group to quantify the efficacy of BNCT at its current status of development for a simplified GBM model. This work has expanded the framework to a semi-realistic GBM model with heterogeneous radiosensitivity and anisotropic microscopic extensions; moreover, the neutron beam model and neutron transport components have undergone substantial improvements. Abstract Background: Glioblastomas (GBMs) are notorious for their aggressive features, e.g., intrinsic radioresistance, extensive heterogeneity, hypoxia, and highly infiltrative behaviours. The prognosis has remained poor despite recent advances in systemic and modern X-ray radiotherapy. Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) represents an alternative radiotherapy technique for GBM. Previously, a Geant4 BNCT modelling framework was developed for a simplified model of GBM. Purpose: The current work expands on the previous model by applying a more realistic in silico GBM model with heterogeneous radiosensitivity and anisotropic microscopic extensions (ME). Methods: Each cell within the GBM model was assigned an α/β value associated with different GBM cell lines and a 10B concentration. Dosimetry matrices corresponding to various MEs were calculated and combined to evaluate cell survival fractions (SF) using clinical target volume (CTV) margins of 2.0 & 2.5 cm. SFs for the BNCT simulation were compared with external X-ray radiotherapy (EBRT) SFs. Results: The SFs within the beam region decreased by more than two times compared to EBRT. It was demonstrated that BNCT results in markedly reduced SFs for both CTV margins compared to EBRT. However, the SF reduction as a result of the CTV margin extension using BNCT was significantly lower than using X-ray EBRT for one MEP distribution, while it remained similar for the other two MEP models. Conclusions: Although the efficiency of BNCT in terms of cell kill is superior to EBRT, the extension of the CTV margin by 0.5 cm may not increase the BNCT treatment outcome significantly.
Molecular Detection of Virulence Factors in Salmonella serovars Isolated from Poultry and Human Samples

Salmonellosis is a common infectious disease in humans caused by Salmonella spp. , which in recent years has shown an increase in its incidence, with products of avian origin being a common source of transmission. To present a successful infective cycle, there are molecular mechanisms such as virulence factors that provide characteristics that facilitate survival, colonization, and damage to the host. According to this, the study aims to characterize the virulence factors of Salmonella spp. strains isolated from broilers (n = 39) and humans (n = 10). The presence of 24 virulence genes was evaluated using end-point PCR. All the strains of Salmonella spp. isolated from broiler chickens revealed presence of 7/24 (29, 16%) virulence genes (lpfA, csgA, sitC, sipB, sopB, sopE, and sivH). Regarding the strains isolated from cases of gastroenteritis in humans, all strains contained (14/24, 58, 33%) virulence genes (lpfA, csgA, pagC, msgA, spiA, sitC, iroN, sipB, orgA, hilA, sopB, sifA, avrA, and sivH). In summary, the presence of virulence genes in different strains of Salmonella isolated from broilers and humans could be described as bacteria with potential pathogenicity due to the type and number of virulence genes detected. These findings are beneficial for the pathogenic monitoring of Salmonella in Colombia.
Associations of serum amino acids related to urea cycle with risk of chronic kidney disease in Chinese with type 2 diabetes

Objective Serum levels of amino acids related to urea cycle are associated with risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Our study aimed to explore whether serum levels of amino acids related to urea cycle, i.e., arginine, citrulline, and ornithine, are also associated with increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in T2DM. Methods We extracted medical records of 1032 consecutive patients with T2DM from the Electronic Administrative System of Liaoning Medical University First Affiliated Hospital (LMUFAH) system from May 2015 to August 2016. Of them, 855 patients with completed data available were used in the analysis. CKD was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Serum amino acids were measured by mass spectrometry (MS) technology. Binary logistic regression was performed to obtain odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results 52.3% of the 855 T2DM patients were male, and 143 had CKD. In univariable analysis, high serum citrulline, high ratio of arginine to ornithine, and low ratio of ornithine to citrulline were associated with markedly increased risk of CKD (OR of top vs. bottom tertile: 2.87, 95%CI, 1.79-4.62 & 1.98, 95%CI,1.25-3.14 & 2.56, 95%CI, 1.61-4.07, respectively). In multivariable analysis, the ORs of citrulline and ornithine/citrulline ratio for CKD remained significant (OR of top vs. bottom tertile: 2.22, 95%CI, 1.29-3.82 & 2.24, 1.29-3.87, respectively). Conclusions In Chinese patients with T2DM, high citrulline and low ornithine/citrulline ratio were associated with increased risk of CKD.
Super-Resolution Reconstruction of Terahertz Images Based on Residual Generative Adversarial Network with Enhanced Attention

Terahertz (THz) waves are widely used in the field of non-destructive testing (NDT). However, terahertz images have issues with limited spatial resolution and fuzzy features because of the constraints of the imaging equipment and imaging algorithms. To solve these problems, we propose a residual generative adversarial network based on enhanced attention (EA), which aims to pay more attention to the reconstruction of textures and details while not influencing the image outlines. Our method successfully recovers detailed texture information from low-resolution images, as demonstrated by experiments on the benchmark datasets Set5 and Set14. To use the network to improve the resolution of terahertz images, we create an image degradation algorithm and a database of terahertz degradation images. Finally, the real reconstruction of terahertz images confirms the effectiveness of our method.