jimnoneill/paper-to-field-training huggingface dataset:
Bronchoalveolar lavage cell pattern from healthy human lung

Field: Medicine (Health Sciences)

Summary Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is widely accepted as a key diagnostic procedure in interstitial lung diseases (ILD). We performed a study to obtain reference intervals of differential cell patterns in BAL fluid with special attention to the origin of lavage fluid, e.g. bronchial/alveolar, to atopy and smoking status and to age of the healthy people. We performed bronchoalveolar lavage in 55 healthy subjects with known atopy status (age: 18–64 years, non-smokers/smokers: 34/21) and determined differential cell counts and lymphocyte subsets in BAL fluid and blood. Moreover, in a subgroup of non-smoking healthy individuals we measured the expression of the regulatory T cell marker forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3) on blood and BAL fluid lymphocytes in addition to a comprehensive set of activation markers. Differential cell counts from the alveolar lavage fraction differed significantly from calculated pooled fractions (n = 11). In contrast, marginal differences were found between atopic and non-atopic subjects. Interestingly, the BAL fluid CD4+/CD8+ ratio correlated strongly with age (r2 = 0·50, P &lt; 0·0001). We consider the bronchial and alveolar fraction to be lavage fluid from fundamentally different compartments and recommend analysis of the alveolar fraction in diagnostic work-up of ILD. In addition, our data suggest that age corrected BAL fluid CD4+/CD8+ ratios should be used in the clinical evaluation of patients with interstitial lung diseases.
Continuing professional development opinions and challenges experienced by radiographers in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa

Field: Health Professions (Health Sciences)

Background. Continuing professional development (CPD) was introduced as a method to ensure that healthcare professionals continuously update their knowledge and skills. In South Africa (SA), CPD has been adopted as a mandatory requirement by the Health Professions Council of SA (HPCSA) for all registered healthcare professionals. However, despite CPD being mandatory, a number of healthcare professionals nationally are still non-compliant. Hence, research was conducted to determine the reasons for non-compliance. Objective. To identify the opinions and challenges related to CPD compliance by radiographers working in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Province, SA. Methods. A positivist paradigm and cross-sectional research design were used. The methodology was quantitative and the measuring instrument was a survey questionnaire. The majority of questions were closed-ended and a few were open-ended. The latter questions allowed participants to make suggestions and give opinions freely. Radiographers from all four disciplines in radiography, working in KZN, were included in this study. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 23.0 (IBM Corp., USA). Open-ended questions were assessed qualitatively by means of coding and thematic analysis. Results. This study revealed that the two most common challenges experienced by KZN radiographers were lack of time and the inability to attend CPD activities owing to shift work. The majority of participants acknowledged the importance of CPD; however, most indicated engagement with CPD only because of mandatory requirements by the HPCSA. This could imply a need to review the effectiveness of the current CPD processes. Conclusion. In a profession such as radiography, which is constantly evolving and progressing, the need for CPD is indisputable. It is evident from the findings of this study that KZN radiographers acknowledge the importance and value of CPD in their profession. However, they experience a number of challenges that negatively affect their CPD participation. These challenges need to be addressed to ensure that the aim of CPD is achieved.
Psychosocial triggers associated with major depressive episodes in women applying to psychiatric outpatient clinic

Field: Medicine (Health Sciences)

Aim: Factors such as personality traits, self-esteem, interpersonal relations and cognitive skills are considered among the risk factors of psychiatric disorders particularly for mood disorders. Presence of a single risk factor is not enough for the disease to emerge. The present study aimed to evaluate the presence of psychosocial triggering factors prior to the episodes of major depressive disorder (MDD) in female patients.Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included a total of 62 female patients, who visited the psychiatry policlinic and have been diagnosed with MDD alone according to SCID-I. After the diagnostic evaluation of the patients, detailed clinical interview was conducted to assess the presence of triggering factors for depressive episode. All of the participants described triggering factors for major depressive disorder.Results: Regarding the psychosocial factors as the potential triggers, 26 patients mentioned about the problem of communication and compliance with the spouse (42%), 10 mentioned about the presence of illness in the first-degree relatives (16%) and 10 mentioned about the conflict with the mother-in-law or other relatives (16%). When we collect “communication/compliance problem with the spouse” + “conflict with the mother-in-law/other family members” + “breaking up with the beloved one” + “husband’s cheating on her” stressor groups as a “relationship conflict” group, the mean of BDI and BAI scores of “relationship conflict” group were highest among the all groups.Conclusions: In the light of these outcomes, it can be concluded that particularly psychosocial factors associated with interpersonal relations play significant role as the triggering factors for depressive episodes in female patients. Among these factors, the problem of communication and compliance with the spouse is particularly striking.
HAMLET mediates neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation.

Field: Neuroscience (Life Sciences)

HAMLET (Human alpha-lactalbumin made lethal to tumor cells), a tumoricidal complex, was shown to trigger proliferation in immortalized human neural stem cells (hNSCs). In this study, I investigated the effects of HAMLET on the survivability, proliferation and neuronal differentiation of primary mouse embryonic neural stem cells (NSCs) in vitro. This is because primary NSCs closely mimic the physiological conditions of the cells in vivo. NSCs obtained from the sub ventricular zone (SVZ) of E14 mouse fetuses were propagated as neurospheres and cultured with or without HAMLET at two concentrations (0.05μg/μl, 0.1μg/μl) for 0.5 hour and 1.5 hour. The survivability of embryonic NSCs was determined by Trypan blue exclusion assay, while cell proliferation was assayed by bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation assay. In addition, I assayed the NSC differentiation 4 days post-differentiation via immunocytochemistry. My findings indicated that HAMLET induces cell death in NSCs in a dose- and time-dependent manner. In addition, HAMLET also significantly decrease proliferation and increase neuronal differentiation in NSCs at both concentrations upon 0.5h treatment. Taken together, my results indicate that HAMLET, other than being a tumoricidal agent, may have important implications in selectively promoting neuronal differentiation in NSCs for treatment against neurodegenerative diseases.
Discrete quasi-eigenfunction approximation for AM-FM image analysis

Field: Computer Science (Physical Sciences)

We introduce a multidimensional quasi-eigenfunction approximation useful for characterizing and analyzing the responses of discrete linear systems to inputs modeled as AM-FM image functions. A new theorem is presented which provides a global bound on the approximation error. We demonstrate how the approximation may be used to develop discrete AM-FM demodulation algorithms, and show dramatic demodulation examples where the essential structure of natural images is captured using only a small number of AM-FM components.
Heterotrimeric G proteins in heart disease

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology (Life Sciences)

Guanine nucleotide binding proteins (G proteins) are largely grouped into three classes: heterotrimeric G proteins, ras-like or small molecular weight GTP binding proteins, and others like G h . In the heart G proteins transduce signals from a variety of membrane receptors to generate diverse effects on contractility, heart rate, and myocyte growth. This central position of G proteins forming a switchboard between extracellular signals and intracellular effectors makes them candidates possibly involved in the pathogenesis of cardiac hypertrophy, heart failure, and arrhythmia. This review focuses primarily on discoveries of heterotrimeric G protein alterations in heart diseases that help us to understand the pathogenesis and pathophysiology. We also discuss the underlying molecular mechanisms of heterotrimeric G protein signalling.Key words: G proteins, signal transduction, adrenergic system, heart failure, hypertrophy.
Iterative multi-criteria decision LP-modeling approach for a sustainable chick mash nutritional feed production

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences (Life Sciences)

In this study, the non-differentiable interactive multi-objective bundle-based (NIMBUS) mathematical modelling approach was deployed to optimize the metabolizable energy and feed cost based on the feed ingredients within the limits of some nutritional constraints. The global optimization produced four different formulations, from which the optimal alternative to choose was determined based on the farmers' demands and available budget. The results of this investigation revealed an inverse proportionality between the ration cost and metabolizable energy with the least ration cost and higher supplemental energy option selected as the most Pareto optimum solutions (i.e. alternative 1) of RM88, 938.18 per metric tonne and 3550kCal/kg, respectively. The optimum metabolizable energy is therefore sufficient to sustain chicks during winter, while not compromising the nutritional quality of the formulated feed. NIMBUS optimization technique is, therefore, a promising tool in formulating a balanced animal feed.
Rising carbon inequality and its driving factors from 2005 to 2015

Field: Environmental Science (Physical Sciences)

Carbon inequality is the gap in carbon footprints between the rich and the poor, reflecting an uneven distribution of wealth and mitigation responsibility. Whilst much is known about the level of inequality surrounding responsibility for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, little is known about the evolution in carbon inequality and how the carbon footprints of socio-economic groups have developed over time. Inequality can be reduced either by improving the living standards of the poor or by reducing the overconsumption of the rich, but the choice has very different implications for climate change mitigation. Here, we investigate the carbon footprints of income quintile groups for major 43 economies from 2005 to 2015. We find that most developed economies had declining carbon footprints but expanding carbon inequality, whereas most developing economies had rising footprints but divergent trends in carbon inequality. The top income group in developing economies grew fastest, with its carbon footprint surpassing the top group in developed economies in 2014. Developments are driven by a reduction in GHG intensity in all regions, which is partly offset by income growth in developed countries but more than offset by the rapid growth in selected emerging economies. The top income group in developed economies has achieved the least progress in climate change mitigation, in terms of decline rate, showing resistance of the rich. It shows mitigation efforts could raise carbon inequality. We highlight the necessity of raising the living standard of the poor and consistent mitigation effort is the core of achieving two targets.
Quantitative Systems Pharmacology Modeling of Adeno-Associated Virus Gene Therapies: Mechanistic Identification of Species-Translation Using Preclinical and Clinical Data

Field: Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics (Life Sciences)

Gene therapy provides a breakthrough approach to alter genetic mutations and directly correct underlying disease etiology. Recently, advances in genetic engineering and vector developments have allowed new adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapies to progress successfully through the clinical drug development process (Peyvandi and Garagiola, 2019; Colella et al., 2018).
Exploratory clinical trial of combination wound therapy with a gelatin sheet and platelet-rich plasma in patients with chronic skin ulcers: study protocol

Field: Medicine (Health Sciences)

Introduction Chronic skin ulcers, such as diabetic ulcers, venous leg ulcers and pressure ulcers, are intractable and increasing in prevalence, representing a costly problem in healthcare. We developed a combination therapy with a gelatin sheet, capable of providing sustained release of platelet-rich plasma (PRP). The objective of this study is to investigate the safety and efficacy of autologous PRP covered with a hydrocolloid dressing and PRP covered with a gelatin sheet in the treatment of chronic skin ulcers. Methods and analysis Thirty patients with chronic skin ulcers who have not healed with conventional therapy for at least 1 month are being recruited. The patients will receive PRP after debridement, and the wounds will be covered with a hydrocolloid dressing or gelatin sheet. The efficacy will be evaluated according to the time from the beginning of PRP application to secondary healing or the day on which wound closure is achieved with a relatively simple surgical procedure, such as skin grafting or suturing. All patients will be followed up until 6 weeks after application to observe adverse events related to the application of PRP and the dressings. This study was designed to address and compare the safety and efficacy of PRP covered with a hydrocolloid dressing versus a gelatin sheet. If successful, this combination therapy may be an alternative to bioengineered skin substitutes containing living cells and lead to substantial progress in the management of chronic skin ulcers. Ethics and dissemination The study protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Kansai Medical University (KMU Number 0649-1, 4 August 2014: V.1.0). The findings of this trial will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, and national and international scientific meetings as well as to the patients. Trial registration number UMIN000015689.
Reply : Argon laser iridotomy and crystalline lens dislocation

Field: Medicine (Health Sciences)

We agree that zonular laxity and anterior displacement of the crystalline lens is the most likely mechanism of relative pupillary block and angle-closure glaucoma in patients with high myopia.1 However, to our knowledge, high myopia has not typically been associated with dislocation of the crystalline lens. A review of the literature reveals several cases of lens dislocation in patients with previous laser peripheral iridotomies.2–4 In our case report, zonular laxity associated with myopia was the most likely cause of angle-closure glaucoma but does not fully explain anterior chamber crystalline lens dislocation. We maintain that further zonular trauma associated with peripheral laser iridotomy most likely contributed to this ultimate zonular failure. We look forward to future studies that may elucidate the underlying mechanisms in these interesting cases.
O23.3 Hiv and injecting drug use among out of school youths: experience from nigeria

Field: Medicine (Health Sciences)

Introduction

Out of school youths are often prone to high risk behaviours as a result of limited public health interventions including prevention outreach and education efforts. Little is known about injecting drug use among them. Information on drug use is needed to design harm reduction strategies to reduce out of school youths9 exposure to HIV through injection. This study assessed factors associated with their injecting drug use.

Methods

Secondary analysis of data collected among out of school youths in November 2013 in North Central Nigeria. The data collected socio-demographic, sexual, behavioural and biological information among 1600 participants aged 15–24 years. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess factors that influence their injecting drug use.

Results

Their average age was 20.6 ± 2.7 years, participants from urban areas were 769 (48.1%) and rural area was 831 (51.9%). Male participants were 1023 (63.9%) and age category 20–24 years was 67.6%. Mean age at sexual debut was 16.2 ± 2.8 years; mean age at first alcohol use was 16.2 ± 3.8 years; mean age at first cigarette smoking was 15.1 ± 5.8 years; current smokers was 17.5%; alcohol intake was 53.1%; cocaine intake was 3.9%; heroine intake was 3.3%; sex in the past 12 months was 79.1% and sex in the last 3 months was 30.2%. HIV prevalence was 5.2%; and proportion injecting drug was 5.5% with rural 5.3% and urban 5.8%. Factors associated with injecting drug use were age group 20–24 years OR = 3.4 95% CI 1.5–8.3, smoking status OR = 2.1 95% CI 1.2–4.5, daily alcohol intake OR = 3.1 95% CI 2.0–7.7 and rural area OR = 0.6 95% CI 0.5–0.8.

Conclusion

Harm reduction approaches need to be instituted among out of school youths. Programming among them to reduce injecting drug use is important. Their HIV prevalence of 5.2% is above the national youth average of 3.0%. Multi-pronged strategies including motivational programs to reduce drug use and HIV risk are urgently needed. This will involve age-specific targeted interventions to effectively improve their health.

Disclosure of interest statement

This is a self-funded research and no pharmaceutical grant was received to conduct this study.
[Delivery at the parents' and children's premises].

Field: Health Professions (Health Sciences)

Developed countries have reduced maternal mortality to a minimum, and there is a very low perinatal risk. This is still far from the reality in many developing countries. In the evaluation of health care for mother and child, all professionals involved should consider their focus. The use of technology, and the premises and information shared with the users should be open to revision, in order to provide services that are user-friendly, and to ensure low risk for parents and children.
Transportation-markings foundations. Part A, volume I, first studies

Field: Engineering (Physical Sciences)

This book is about "Transportation-Markings" (hereafter T-M). A T-M can be defined as "any device which aids a mode of transportation (ship, plane, auto, train) by giving guidance, by expressing regulations, or by giving warnings." That includes the whole field of T-M forms (also termed safety aids): lighthouses, taxiway lights, traffic signs, railway semaphore signals, radio beacons, buoys, traffic beacons, global positioning systems, fog signals, targets, obstruction beacons, daybeacons, and hundreds of other T-M forms.\n
Near-Infrared On-Site Evaluation (NOSE) Examination of EBUS/EUSb Samples—A New Method for Sample Adequacy Evaluation

Field: Medicine (Health Sciences)

Fine-needle aspiration biopsy is crucial for modern diagnostics of endoscopic procedures and thus an efficient and reliable method for increasing biopsy yields is urgently needed. In our study, we address the limited availability and high price of the rapid onsite evaluation (ROSE) technique by introducing the technique of near-infrared on-site evaluation (NOSE) consisting of spectral measurement of near-infrared radiation (NIR) transmitted through the evaluated material. For this purpose, we designed a special optical probe consisting of two fibres, of which one is a source fibre and the second is a detector fibre. The distal ends of both fibres are brought together into one bundle which is, with the help of a special extension, applied to a cuvette with an analysed sample at a defined distance from the cuvette bottom and fixed in place. A portion of the NIR radiation received by the detector fibre after it propagates through the sample then depends on the optical and therefore morphological characteristics of the sample. Based on the measured spectral curve, we can calculate the attenuation coefficient curve and subsequently the parameter of the sample richness and the parameter characterising the autofluorescence peak as well. We found that the value of our introduced parameters is in significant relation to sample richness as well as to sample malignity. NOSE evaluation of EBUS/EUSb (endobronchial/oesophageal ultrasound bronchoscopy) specimens can be considered an easy new technique aiming to improve sampling diagnostic accuracy and to diminish costs related to the presence of a cytopathologist and related instrumentation in the endoscopy suite.
Fractionation and Solvent-Free MALDI-MS Analysis of Polymers Using Liquid Adsorption Chromatography at Critical Conditions in Combination with a Multisample On-Target Homogenization/Transfer Sample Preparation Method

Field: Chemistry (Physical Sciences)

A solvent-free homogenization/transfer matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry (MS) method is described for the preparation and precise transfer of up to 100 samples simultaneously on a single MALDI plate. This method is demonstrated using a poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) mixture consisting of different molecular weights (500-6000) and end groups (PEO, dimethoxy-PEO, monomethoxy monomethacrylate-PEO, and dimethacrylate-PEO) that was fractionated using liquid adsorption chromatography at critical conditions. Off-line fractionation is performed prior to the on-target homogenization/transfer solvent-free sample preparation and MALDI mass analysis. The miniaturization of the solvent-free MALDI approach allowed analysis of less than 2 microg per PEO component per fraction corresponding to approximately 200 pmol for PEO 6000. The amounts of polymer sample used for LC separation and the quality of the MS results are equivalent to the "dry spray" method; however, three times more fractions were collected and analyzed with the newly developed hyphenated approach. The off-line method eliminates optimization of, for example, spray conditions or spreading of organic solvents on the MALDI plate that occurs with droplet deposition methods. The widespread applications of MALDI make this solvent-free, multisample method particularly important as it expands the capabilities for obtaining mass measurements with great efficiencies in areas with increased sample numbers. In addition, the solvent-free method is well suited for automated MALDI analysis as it virtually eliminates the "dead-spot" phenomenon.