Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation after myocardial revascularization: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND The present study aimed to analyze the effects of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on physical performance after myocardial revascularization. In addition, we compared the type and duration of exercise-based CR protocols to determine which ones produced the best performance improvements. METHODS This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted and reported in accordance with PRISMA statement. A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus and ProQuest, was performed in July 2020. Studies that met the following criteria were included: (i) participants submitted to myocardial revascularization (i.e., coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)), (ii) participants submitted to exercise-based CR, and (iii) participants submitted to protocols for assessing physical performance before and after the exercise-based CR. RESULTS Thirteen and eleven studies evaluating the effects of exercise-based CR after myocardial revascularization were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, respectively. Exercise-based CR increased physical performance after myocardial revascularization (mean effect size (ES) 0.75; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.62, 0.88), particularly when aerobic (ES 0.85; 95% CI 0.68, 1.01) and combined training (ES 1.04; 95% CI 0.70, 1.38) lasting 8-12 weeks (ES 1.20; 95% CI 0.87, 1.53) was prescribed. CONCLUSIONS The present systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that exercise-based CR increases physical performance after myocardial revascularization. The prescription of physical training for these patients should emphasize aerobic and combined training lasting at least 8-12 weeks, which is more effective in improving physical performance. IMPACT Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of physical training in improving physical performance after myocardial revascularization.
Towards precise outdoor localisation based on image recognition

In recent years significant progress has been made in the field of visual search, mostly due to the introduction of powerful local image features. At the same time, a rapid development of mobile platforms enabled deployment of image retrieval systems on mobile devices. Various mobile applications of the visual search have been proposed, one of the most interesting being geo-localization service based on image recognition and other positioning information. This thesis attempts to advance the existing visual search system developed at Telefonica I+D Barcelona so it could be used for high precision geo-localization. In order to do so, this dissertation tackles two significant challenges of image retrieval: improvement in robustness of the detection of similarities between images and increase of discriminatory power. The work advances the state-of-the-art with three main contributions. The first contribution consists of the development of an evaluation framework for visual search engine. Since the assessment of any complex system is crucial for its development and analysis, an exhaustive set of evaluation measures is selected from the relevant literature and implemented. Furthermore, several datasets along with the corresponding information about correct correspondences between the images have been gathered and unified. The second contribution considers the representation of image features describing salient regions and attempts to alleviate the quantization effects introduced during its creation. A mechanism that in the literature is commonly referred to as soft assignment is adapted to a visual search engine of Telefonica I+D with several extensions. The third and final contribution consists of a post-processing stage that increases discriminative power by verification of local correspondences' spatial layout. The performance and generality of the proposed solutions has been analyzed based on extensive evaluation using the framework proposed in this work.
Dynamics of Endothelial Engagement and Filopodia Formation in Complex 3D Microscaffolds

The understanding of endothelium–extracellular matrix interactions during the initiation of new blood vessels is of great medical importance; however, the mechanobiological principles governing endothelial protrusive behaviours in 3D microtopographies remain imperfectly understood. In blood capillaries submitted to angiogenic factors (such as vascular endothelial growth factor, VEGF), endothelial cells can transiently transdifferentiate in filopodia-rich cells, named tip cells, from which angiogenesis processes are locally initiated. This protrusive state based on filopodia dynamics contrasts with the lamellipodia-based endothelial cell migration on 2D substrates. Using two-photon polymerization, we generated 3D microstructures triggering endothelial phenotypes evocative of tip cell behaviour. Hexagonal lattices on pillars (“open”), but not “closed” hexagonal lattices, induced engagement from the endothelial monolayer with the generation of numerous filopodia. The development of image analysis tools for filopodia tracking allowed to probe the influence of the microtopography (pore size, regular vs. elongated structures, role of the pillars) on orientations, engagement and filopodia dynamics, and to identify MLCK (myosin light-chain kinase) as a key player for filopodia-based protrusive mode. Importantly, these events occurred independently of VEGF treatment, suggesting that the observed phenotype was induced through microtopography. These microstructures are proposed as a model research tool for understanding endothelial cell behaviour in 3D fibrillary networks.
Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Delivered during Hypothermic Oxygenated Machine Perfusion Repair Ischemic/Reperfusion Damage of Kidneys from Extended Criteria Donors

Simple Summary In this study, we explore for the first time an innovative tool for organ preservation aimed to preventing ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) in marginal kidneys from expanded criteria donors (ECD) unsuitable for transplantation. Ex vivo hypothermic oxygenated perfusion (HOPE) with and without MSC-derived EV and normothermic reperfusion (NR) with artificial blood composed of bovine hemoglobin were applied on kidneys to evaluate global renal ischemic damage score, renal ultrastructure, mitochondrial distress, apoptosis, cell proliferation index, and the mediators of energy metabolism. Our study demonstrates that kidney conditioning with HOPE+EV arrests the ischemic damage, prevents reoxygenation-dependent injury, and preserves tissue integrity. EV delivery during HOPE can be considered a new organ preservation strategy to increase the donor pool and improving transplant outcome. The originality of our study lies an EV and HOPE combined novel setting use in kidneys from ECD, but also in any condition for graft dysfunction such as ischemia/reperfusion. Abstract The poor availability of kidney for transplantation has led to a search for new strategies to increase the donor pool. The main option is the use of organs from extended criteria donors. We evaluated the effects of hypothermic oxygenated perfusion (HOPE) with and without extracellular vesicles (EV) derived from mesenchymal stromal cells on ischemic/reperfusion injury of marginal kidneys unsuitable for transplantation. For normothermic reperfusion (NR), we used artificial blood as a substitute for red blood cells. We evaluated the global renal ischemic dam-age score (GRS), analyzed the renal ultrastructure (RU), cytochrome c oxidase (COX) IV-1 (a mitochondrial distress marker), and caspase-3 renal expression, the tubular cell proliferation index, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) tissue levels, and effluent lactate and glucose levels. HOPE+EV kidneys had lower GRS and better RU, higher COX IV-1 expression and HGF and VEGF levels and lower caspase-3 expression than HOPE kidneys. During NR, HOPE+EV renal effluent had lower lactate release and higher glucose levels than HOPE renal effluent, suggesting that the gluconeogenesis system in HOPE+EV group was pre-served. In conclusion, EV delivery during HOPE can be considered a new organ preservation strategy for increasing the donor pool and improving transplant outcome.
Recent progress in cryoablation cancer therapy and nanoparticles mediated cryoablation

With rapid advances in modern imaging, minimally invasive ablative procedures have emerged as popular alternatives to surgical removal of tumors. Tumor ablation modalities currently offered in clinical practice include microwave ablation, radiofrequency ablation, cryoablation, high-intensity focused ultrasound, and irreversible electroporation. Cryoablation, a non-heat-based method of ablation, is increasingly being used for treating various solid tumors. Accumulated comparative data of cryoablation versus heat-based ablation techniques (e.g., radiofrequency and microwave ablation) shows superior tumor response and quicker recovery time. Evolving research has demonstrated that nanocarriers may serves as excellent catalysts for the cryoablation therapy, imaging guidance, and the co-delivery of therapeutics for minimally invasive, precise, and complete treatment of cancer with immune modulation. This review article focuses on the current status of cryoablation in clinical practice, considers opportunities for enhancing therapeutic outcomes from cryoablation, and discusses new research in the field, including theranostic nanoparticles-mediated cryotherapy and combinational cryo-based immunotherapies.
Effect of Extraction Methodology on the Phytochemical Composition for Camelia sinensis “Powdered Tea Extracts” from Different Provenances

(1) Background: beverages based on extracts from Camellia sinensis are popular worldwide. Due to an increasing number of processed teas on the market, there is a need to develop unified classification standards based on chemical analysis. Meanwhile, phytochemical characterizations are mainly performed on tea samples from China (~80%). Hence, data on teas of other provenances is recommended. (2) Methods: in the present investigation, we characterized lyophilised extracts obtained by infusion, maceration and methanolic extraction derived from tea samples from China, Japan, Sri Lanka and Portugal by phytochemistry (catechins, oxyaromatic acids, flavonols, alkaloids and theanine). The real benefits of drinking the tea were analysed based on the bioavailability of the determined phytochemicals. (3) Results: the infusions revealed the highest total phenolic contents (TPC) amounts, while methanolic extracts yielded the lowest. The correlation matrix indicated that the levels of phenolic compounds were similar in the infusions and methanolic samples, while extractions made by maceration were significantly different. The differences could be partially explained by the different amounts of (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), (-)-epicatechin gallate (ECG) and gallic acids (GA). The catechin percentages were significantly lower in the macerations, especially the quantity of EGCG decreases by 4- to 5-fold after this process. (4) Conclusions: the results highlight the importance of the processing methodology to obtain “instant tea”; the composition of the extracts obtained with the same methodology is not significantly affected by the provenance of the tea. However, attention should be drawn to the specificities of the Japanese samples (the tea analysed in the present work was of Sencha quality). In contrast, the extraction methodology significantly affects the phytochemical composition, especially concerning the content of polyphenols. As such, our results indicate that instant tea classification based on chemical composition is sensible, but there is a need for a standard extraction methodology, namely concerning the temperature and time of contact of the tea leaves with the extraction solvent.
A Macroscopic Traffic Model-based Approach for Sybil Attack Detection in VANETs

Vehicular Ad Hoc Network (VANETs) are required to play a significant job in our lives. They will improve traffic security and welcome an upheaval on the driving experience. In any case, these benefits are balanced conceivable assaults that undermine the vehicle's security, yet additionally travelers lives. One of the most widely recognized ones is the Sybil assault, which is more risky than others since it could be the beginning stage of numerous different assaults in VANETs. This paper proposes a dispersed methodology permitting the discovery of Sybil at tacks utilizing the traffic flow hypothesis. The key thought here is that every vehicle will screen its neighborhood so as to identify a possible Sybil assault. This is accomplished by contrasting between the genuine precise speed of the vehicle and the one evaluated utilizing the V2V correspondences with vehicles in the region. This evaluated speed is acquired utilizing the traffic flow principal chart of the street's segment where the vehicles are moving. A numerical model that assesses the pace of Sybil assault discovery air conditioning cording to the traffic thickness is proposed. At that point, this model is approved through some broad re-enactments directed utilizing the notable NS3 arrange test system together with SUMO traffic test system.
Towards the Elucidation of the Pharmacokinetics of Voriconazole: A Quantitative Characterization of Its Metabolism

The small-molecule drug voriconazole (VRC) shows a complex and not yet fully understood metabolism. Consequently, its in vivo pharmacokinetics are challenging to predict, leading to therapy failures or adverse events. Thus, a quantitative in vitro characterization of the metabolism and inhibition properties of VRC for human CYP enzymes was aimed for. The Michaelis–Menten kinetics of voriconazole N-oxide (NO) formation, the major circulating metabolite, by CYP2C19, CYP2C9 and CYP3A4, was determined in incubations of human recombinant CYP enzymes and liver and intestine microsomes. The contribution of the individual enzymes to NO formation was 63.1% CYP2C19, 13.4% CYP2C9 and 29.5% CYP3A4 as determined by specific CYP inhibition in microsomes and intersystem extrapolation factors. The type of inhibition and inhibitory potential of VRC, NO and hydroxyvoriconazole (OH–VRC), emerging to be formed independently of CYP enzymes, were evaluated by their effects on CYP marker reactions. Time-independent inhibition by VRC, NO and OH–VRC was observed on all three enzymes with NO being the weakest and VRC and OH–VRC being comparably strong inhibitors of CYP2C9 and CYP3A4. CYP2C19 was significantly inhibited by VRC only. Overall, the quantitative in vitro evaluations of the metabolism contributed to the elucidation of the pharmacokinetics of VRC and provided a basis for physiologically-based pharmacokinetic modeling and thus VRC treatment optimization.
Covid-19 Infection and its Adverse Effects on Multiorgan

Covid-19 pandemic, the consequence of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-2), is one of the main causes of worldwide mortality. The manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 are extensively variable and array from asymptomatic infection to multiorgan failure. The primary mechanism for SARS-CoV-2 infection is the binding of the virus to the membrane bound form of ACE2, which is mostly expressed in the lungs, heart, and kidneys. The presence of comorbidities made patients at a higher risk of developing severe form of Covid-19. Several studies have suggested that SARS-CoV-2 infection have adverse effects on multiorgan. Strategies for proper diagnosis and management of multiorgan effect of Covid-19 have not been established due to the emergence of new variants. However, until more studies are carried out, treatment approaches have to be made on personalized basis depending on the specific organ damage to reduce the overall mortality rate.
Experimental study of fuzzy control for vibration suppression of dual-flexible manipulation basing on PZT

Elastic vibration is inevitably caused during movement of flexible arms,so the vibration suppression has become an important topic.For a vibration suppression system basing on PZT and fuzzy control theory,vibration information can be detected using resistance strain sensor and collected into computer system through dynamic strain-gauge,then fuzzy operation is carried out according to fuzzy control laws,following that control voltage is determined.Finally,the PZT is driven with the voltage to produce a control torque opposite to the vibration direction and the flexible deformation is suppressed.Experimental results show that the fuzzy control is reliable and the PZT can suppress the elastic vibration significantly.
Alterations in synaptonemal complex coding genes and human infertility

About 10% of reproductive-aged couples suffer from infertility. However, the genetic causes of human infertility cases are largely unknown. Meiosis produces haploid gametes for fertilization and errors in meiosis are associated with human infertility in both males and females. Successful meiosis relies on the assembly of the synaptonemal complex (SC) between paired homologous chromosomes during the meiotic prophase. The SC is ultrastructurally and functionally conserved, promoting inter-homologous recombination and crossover formation, thus critical for accurate meiotic chromosome segregation. With whole-genome/exome sequencing and mouse models, a list of mutations in SC coding genes has been linked to human infertility. Here we summarize those findings. We also analyzed SC gene variants present in the general population and presented complex interaction networks associated with SC components. Whether a combination of genetic variations and environmental factors causes human infertility demands further investigations.
The indirect effect of body image on distress in women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy

BACKGROUND This study assessed the indirect effect of body image in the relationship between illness duration, optimism, coping strategies and psychological distress as well as the moderator role of being or not submitted to surgery and type of surgery, in women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE This cross-sectional study included eighty-seven women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy, who answered instruments that assessed sociodemographic and clinical issues, optimism, coping, concerns with body image and psychological distress. Bayesian statistics were performed to test the indirect effect model that included also the moderator effects. RESULTS Lower optimism, lower use of humor, and higher denial and illness duration predicted lower body image and higher distress. Longer illness duration was associated with higher distress. Body image had an indirect effect in the relationship between optimism and distress; between denial coping and distress; between humor coping and distress and between illness duration and distress. Being submitted to surgery but not the type of surgery was a moderator in the indirect effect model. CONCLUSIONS Body image is critical to psychological distress. Future interventions for women with breast cancer should consider body image as a target, in order to promote adaptive coping strategies specially when women have had surgery.
Urbanism and Geographic Crises: A Micro-Simulation Lens on Beirut

At a geographical and strategic confluence, the ancient city of Beirut, Lebanon, has witnessed crises from natural and human causes over the centuries. The modern urban and peri-urban development is a result of neo-classical economics, laissez-faire regulations, and complex socio-political structures. This article considers the contemporary housing situation and asks about its resilience to crises. The methodological approach is speculative simulation. We capture the urban status quo through agent-based simulation, and simulate a range of independent shocks. Although the goal of the article is exploratory and not historical replay, the shocks considered are historical exemplars, such as the explosion on August 4th, 2020. Looking across peri-urban Beirut, we measure qualitative effects on housing economics and dynamics. The research question thus addressed is to determine the optimal amount of capital needed for regeneration without triggering a price increase in the housing market. The contribution of the article is a data-and-modelling approach to humane questions of interest to urban scholars. The simulation model is available open source to provoke further enquiry.
Pre-Transplant Peripheral Lymphocyte Subsets Predict Pneumonia After Renal Transplantation

Background Kidney transplantation (KTx) has been considered as the most effective therapeutic method for end-stage renal disease. Immune monitoring of peripheral lymphocyte subsets (PLS) reflects the real immune status and has been used for diagnosis of pneumonia after KTx. We aimed to investigate the association between pre-transplant PLS and pneumonia in renal allograft recipients. Material/Methods A total of 152 patients receive donation after citizen’s death (DCD) kidney allografts in our center between January 2018 and December 2019. Among them, 114 patients were enrolled in our study based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. During the first-year follow-up after KTx, 32 recipients developed pneumonia, and the other 82 recipients did not (stable group). The pre-clinical information and PLS (including the percentages and absolute numbers (Ab No.) of peripheral T, B, and NK cells, as well as CD4/CD8 ratio) results in these 2 groups were calculated by the Mann-Whitney test and receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to identify risk factors. Results Compared to the stable group, the Ab No. of CD3+, CD8+, and CD4+ T cells, as well as B cells and NK cells, were notably reduced in the pneumonia patients. The area under the curve (AUC) of CD3+ T cell Ab No. was 0.7022. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that pre-transplant B cell Ab No. was the independent risk factor for pneumonia progression after KTx (OR=0.353, P=0.037). Conclusions Pre-transplant Ab No. of PLS were closely related to pneumonia after KTx. Monitoring pre-transplant PLS could provide more timely and effective prevention and therapy for post-operative pneumonia after KTx.
Kelvin, Thermodynamics and the Natural World

Series of drawings for the book: Kelvin, Thermodynamics and the Natural World (2016) in collaboration with editors at Brunel University, Maxwell Foundation and Strathclyde University. Born in Glasgow Lord Kelvin was a significant mathematician and physicist, developing thermodynamics and inventing the Marine Compass. The book is published by WIT Press and is an international research resource for the work of Lord Kelvin.