Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Plasma 3‐nitrotyrosine estimates the reperfusion‐induced cerebrovascular stress, whereas matrix metalloproteinases mainly reflect plasma activity: a study in patients treated with thrombolysis or endovascular recanalization

Cerebral reperfusion injury may account for complications of thrombolysis and endovascular recanalization. Experimental studies have shown that brain matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity increases during reperfusion and is correlated with oxidative/nitrative stress. Increased plasma MMP levels have been reported in stroke, but no information is available for reperfusion‐induced plasma MMP and 3‐nitrotyrosine (3‐NT, a marker of oxidative/nitrative stress) changes immediately after recanalization. We obtained plasma from 29 patients undergoing endovascular recanalization, 12 patients treated with thrombolysis, and six control patients having diagnostic angiogram before and 1,3, and 24 h after treatment to investigate the effect of cerebral reperfusion on plasma MMP gelatinolytic activity and 3‐NT level. Hypoperfusion was shown distal to the stenotic artery in endovascular treatment patients. Presence of an occluded artery and recanalization was documented in thrombolysis patients. A significant increase was detected in plasma 3‐NT levels 3 and 24 h after stenting/angioplasty. Plasma MMP‐9 gelatinolytic activity rose more than 50% of the pre‐treatment level in 12 of 29 patients. However, this was not statistically significant and not correlated with any of the clinical or radiological correlates of reperfusion injury (e.g., hyperperfusion and hemorrhage). After thrombolysis, a significant increase in plasma MMP‐9 gelatinolytic activity at 3 and 24 h and the cleaved form of MMP‐9 were detected. 3‐NT levels increased by 44% and 62% at 3 and 24 h, which did not achieve statistical significance, but was highly correlated with admission NIH Stroke Scale (r = 0.930 p < 0.001). No change was detected in MMP‐2 in all groups. In conclusion, these data suggest that the increased plasma MMP‐9 levels is not a direct measure of MMP‐9 activity in the reperfused brain but rather a consequence of tissue plasminogen activator infusion, whereas plasma 3‐NT levels appear to originate from the reperfused brain vasculature. The changes in 3‐NT levels may therefore be useful to monitor oxygen/nitrogen radical formation during reperfusion with serial measurements.
COMPRESSED SENSING : HOW SHARP IS THE RIP ?

Consider a measurement matrix A of size n×N , with n < N , y a signal in RN , and b = Ay the observed measurement of the vector y. From knowledge of (b, A), compressed sensing seeks to recover the k-sparse x, k < n, which minimizes ‖b − Ax‖. Using various methods of analysis — convex polytopes, geometric functional analysis, and the restricted isometry property (RIP) — it has been proven that x can be reconstructed via `q-regularization (q ∈ (0, 1]) provided A satisfies conditions dictated by the method of analysis. This article focuses on the RIP approach and A with entries drawn i.i. d. from the Gaussian distribution N (0, 1/ √ n), developing more precise bounds on the restricted isometry constants, and using these bounds in an asymmetric RIP formulation to quantify the region of ( n N , k n ) in which RIP implies that `q-regularization will typically recover all k-sparse signals. Letting n N → δ and k n → ρ as n → ∞, the aforementioned recoverability region is characterized by all ρ < (1 − )ρRIP S (δ; q) for any > 0, where ρRIP S (δ; q) is a lower bound of the true phase transition below which ` q-regularization will typically recover all k-sparse signals. This phase transition framework, proposed in this context by Donoho (2005), is applied to compressed sensing results obtained by the analysis techniques of centro-symmetric polytope theory (Donoho), geometric functional analysis (Rudelson and Vershynin), and the RIP (Candès, Romberg and Tao; Foucart and Lai; Chartrand). Recasting the results from different methods of analysis into a common phase transition framework allows for the direct comparison of the efficacy of the respective results.
Bringing Engineering to Elementary School

Incorporating engineering in the elementary school curriculum provides students with ways of connecting, applying, and reinforcing knowledge in math, science, and design. To bring what is essentially a new discipline to K-12 education means developing and supporting new tools for the classroom, additional curriculum, teacher training, and support resources. Using LEGO materials and the ROBOLAB software as the toolset, Tufts University? s Center For Engineering Educational Outreach has had significant success with our efforts to bring engineering into a number of schools and classrooms. Examining the classroom results these efforts have yielded highlights the problems and obstacles, a significant potential for expansion, as well as a number of effective practices and strategies.
Evaluating DOGMA-lexons Generated Automatically from a Text Corpus

Our purpose was to devise a method to evaluate the results of extracting semantic relations from text corpora in an unsupervised way. We have worked on a legal corpus (EU VAT directive) consisting of 43K words. Using a shallow parser, a set of ”lexons” has been produced. These are to be used as preprocessed material for the construction of ontologies from scratch. A knowledge engineer has judged that the outcome is useful to support and speed up the ontology modelling task. In addition, a quantitative scoring method (coverage and accuracy measures resulting in a 52.38% and 47.12% score respectively) has been applied.
Identifying outlier loci in admixed and in continuous populations using ancestral population differentiation statistics

Finding genetic signatures of local adaptation is of great interest for many population genetic studies. Common approaches to sorting selective loci from their genomic background focus on the extreme values of the fixation index, FST, across loci. However, the computation of the fixation index becomes challenging when the population is genetically continuous, when predefining subpopulations is a difficult task, and in the presence of admixed individuals in the sample. In this study, we present a new method to identify loci under selection based on an extension of the FST statistic to samples with admixed individuals. In our approach, FST values are computed from the ancestry coefficients obtained with ancestry estimation programs. More specifically, we used factor models to estimate FST, and we compared our neutrality tests with those derived from a principal component analysis approach. The performances of the tests were illustrated using simulated data, and by re-analyzing genomic data from European lines of the plant species Arabidopsis thaliana and human genomic data from the population reference sample, POPRES.
Rapid Biodiversity Assessment and Monitoring Method for Highly Diverse Benthic Communities: A Case Study of Mediterranean Coralligenous Outcrops

Increasing anthropogenic pressures urge enhanced knowledge and understanding of the current state of marine biodiversity. This baseline information is pivotal to explore present trends, detect future modifications and propose adequate management actions for marine ecosystems. Coralligenous outcrops are a highly diverse and structurally complex deep-water habitat faced with major threats in the Mediterranean Sea. Despite its ecological, aesthetic and economic value, coralligenous biodiversity patterns are still poorly understood. There is currently no single sampling method that has been demonstrated to be sufficiently representative to ensure adequate community assessment and monitoring in this habitat. Therefore, we propose a rapid non-destructive protocol for biodiversity assessment and monitoring of coralligenous outcrops providing good estimates of its structure and species composition, based on photographic sampling and the determination of presence/absence of macrobenthic species. We used an extensive photographic survey, covering several spatial scales (100s of m to 100s of km) within the NW Mediterranean and including 2 different coralligenous assemblages: Paramuricea clavata (PCA) and Corallium rubrum assemblage (CRA). This approach allowed us to determine the minimal sampling area for each assemblage (5000 cm2 for PCA and 2500 cm2 for CRA). In addition, we conclude that 3 replicates provide an optimal sampling effort in order to maximize the species number and to assess the main biodiversity patterns of studied assemblages in variability studies requiring replicates. We contend that the proposed sampling approach provides a valuable tool for management and conservation planning, monitoring and research programs focused on coralligenous outcrops, potentially also applicable in other benthic ecosystems.
The Effect of Petroleum-Derived Substances on the Growth and Chemical Composition of Vicia faba L.

Petroleum and petroleum-derived products can contribute to the inhibition of growth and development of plants. Soil contamination by these compounds either hampers or makes difficult the intake of water and mineral salts from the substrate, and also breaks a number of metabolic processes. As a result of the deficiency of chlorophyll and nutrients, the affected plants grow deformed roots, shoots, leaves, and flowers, and show numerous chloroses and necroses. The objective of our research was to determine the effects of petrol, used engine oil, and diesel oil on select morphological parameters of Vicia faba L. , and on the content of select nutrients and heavy metals in the leaves of plants. The effect of the bioremediation process initiated by biopreparation ZB-1 on the above-mentioned parameters was also determined. The analyzed plants were obtained from the Experimental Station of the University of Agriculture in Cracow, located in Mydlniki near Cracow. In June 2010, the soil placed in special containers was contaminated with petroleum-derived substances at a quantity of 6,000 mg per 1 kg of dry mass, by pouring it on the soil. Half of the objects were subjected to bioremediation. The evaluation of the morphology of plants and the structural elements of yield was made at the stage of technological maturity of broad bean seeds. The evaluation of heavy metals content was conducted using flame absorption spectrometry. The carbon, nitrogen, and sulphur content was determined in a Variomax CNS analyzer. The results of the experiment showed that diesel oil had the most adverse effects on the morphological parameters of plants. Engine oil caused a decrease in the nitrogen, carbon, and sulfur contents in the leaves of plants, but on the other hand this substance, like other petroleum-derived compounds, increased the content of most heavy metals. The effect of biopreparation was diverse and depended on the type of substance and on the analyzed parameter. The conducted experiment showed that petroleum-derived substances continued to adversely affect the growth of plants even three years after soil contamination. Additionally, it increased the accumulation of harmful substances in the organs of plants which could, in turn, seriously impact the economy and human health. However, the intensity of the impact depends on the type of derivative. Bioremediation supported by the use of microorganisms is an advantageous solution that permits the improving of the growth parameters of plants, as well as offsetting the harmful effects of petroleum-derived products upon the majority of the analyzed elements.
5-hydroxymethylcytosine marks regions with reduced mutation frequency in human DNA

CpG dinucleotides are the main mutational hot-spot in most cancers. The characteristic elevated C>T mutation rate in CpG sites has been related to 5-methylcytosine (5mC), an epigenetically modified base which resides in CpGs and plays a role in transcription silencing. In brain nearly a third of 5mCs have recently been found to exist in the form of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), yet the effect of 5hmC on mutational processes is still poorly understood. Here we show that 5hmC is associated with an up to 53% decrease in the frequency of C>T mutations in a CpG context compared to 5mC. Tissue specific 5hmC patterns in brain, kidney and blood correlate with lower regional CpG>T mutation frequency in cancers originating in the respective tissues. Together our data reveal global and opposing effects of the two most common cytosine modifications on the frequency of cancer causing somatic mutations in different cell types. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.7554/eLife.17082. 001
Modeling the intention to choose natural vaginal delivery: using reasoned action and social cognitive theories.

BACKGROUND The Behavioral Intention Model is one of the best and most widely models used regarding attitude of behavioral of pregnancy and decrease the rate of cesarean section (CS) among pregnant women, except effect of attitude and subjective norms on behavioral intention. Two variables of self-efficacy, and outcome expectation, relate to individual's behavior in an upcoming situation, and both of them are important at the development of behavior. The purpose of the present study was to develop a model to explain women's inten-tion to choose natural vaginal delivery (NVD). The variables of self-efficacy and outcome expectations, derived from Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory, and Behavioral Intention Model constructs were used to define the model. METHODS The study was descriptive and cross-sectional in nature and took place in Pars Abad, Iran in 2014. The non-probability sample consisted of 200 pregnant women who voluntarily participated in the study and provided the data. SPSS 21 and MPLUS 6.8 were employed to analyze the data. RESULTS Self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and attitude toward NVD were associated with intention to choose the NVD. CONCLUSION The study findings may play a role in designing educational interventions aimed at influencing the NVD and improving childbirth programs.
Decreased Hering–Breuer Input-Output Entrainment in a Mouse Model of Rett Syndrome

Rett syndrome, a severe X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (Mecp2), is associated with a highly irregular respiratory pattern including severe upper-airway dysfunction. Recent work suggests that hyperexcitability of the Hering–Breuer reflex (HBR) pathway contributes to respiratory dysrhythmia in Mecp2 mutant mice. To assess how enhanced HBR input impacts respiratory entrainment by sensory afferents in closed-loop in vivo-like conditions, we investigated the input (vagal stimulus trains) – output (phrenic bursting) entrainment via the HBR in wild-type and MeCP2-deficient mice. Using the in situ perfused brainstem preparation, which maintains an intact pontomedullary axis capable of generating an in vivo-like respiratory rhythm in the absence of the HBR, we mimicked the HBR feedback input by stimulating the vagus nerve (at threshold current, 0.5 ms pulse duration, 75 Hz pulse frequency, 100 ms train duration) at an inter-burst frequency matching that of the intrinsic oscillation of the inspiratory motor output of each preparation. Using this approach, we observed significant input-output entrainment in wild-type mice as measured by the maximum of the cross-correlation function, the peak of the instantaneous relative phase distribution, and the mutual information of the instantaneous phases. This entrainment was associated with a reduction in inspiratory duration during feedback stimulation. In contrast, the strength of input-output entrainment was significantly weaker in Mecp2−/+ mice. However, Mecp2−/+ mice also had a reduced inspiratory duration during stimulation, indicating that reflex behavior in the HBR pathway was intact. Together, these observations suggest that the respiratory network compensates for enhanced sensitivity of HBR inputs by reducing HBR input-output entrainment.
Gastric mucosal acidosis and cytokine release in patients with septic shock

ObjectiveIt has been postulated that in critically ill patients, splanchnic hypoperfusion may lead to cytokine release into the systemic circulation. The presence of cytokines could trigger an inflammatory response and cause multiple organ dysfunction syndrome. Although experimental studies support this hypothesis, humans studies remain controversial. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between splanchnic hypoperfusion and cytokine release during septic shock. DesignHuman prospective study. SettingMedical intensive care unit at a university hospital. PatientsA total of 30 patients with mean arterial pressure of <60 mm Hg after volume loading with either oliguria or hyperlactatemia. MeasurementsGastric intramucosal measurements as an indicator of splanchnic hypoperfusion and blood samples were obtained at admission to the medical intensive care unit and repeated during 48 hrs. Cytokine (tumor necrosis factor-&agr; and interleukin-6) values were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunoassays at the following periods: at the time of admission and 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48 hrs later. Main ResultsHigh levels of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-&agr; were observed at admission in survivors and nonsurvivors, without significant difference. At 48 hrs, cytokine levels were significantly higher in patients who died compared with the survivors (tumor necrosis factor: 163 ± 16 for nonsurvivors vs. 34 ± 9 ng/mL for survivors; interleukin-6: 2814 ± 485 for nonsurvivors vs. 469 ± 107 ng/mL for survivors). At 48 hrs, the Pco2 gap was significantly higher in the nonsurvivors compared with survivors (25.87 ± 2.73 vs. 11.35 ± 2.25 mm Hg), despite systemic hemodynamic variables in the normal range. A positive relationship was demonstrated between plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor-&agr; and interleukin-6 and the Pco2 gap throughout the study. The Pco2 gap was not correlated with hemodynamic variables. ConclusionsOur data suggest a relationship between gastric mucosal acidosis, as assessed by Pco2 gap, and cytokine levels in critically ill patients with septic shock. Gut injury may be a contributor of the inflammatory response in patients with septic shock.
Friction Stir Spot Welding of Advanced High-Strength Steels - A Feasibility Study

An exploratory study was conducted to investigate the feasibility of friction stir spot welding advanced high-strength steel sheet metals. The fixed pin approach was used to weld 600MPa dual phase steel and 1310MPa martensitic steel. A single tool, made of polycrystalline cubic boron nitride, survived over one hundred welding trials without noticeable degradation and wear. Solid-state metallurgical bonding was produced with welding time in the range of 2 to 3 seconds, although the bonding ligament width was relatively small. The microstructures and hardness variations in the weld regions are discussed. The results from tensile-shear and cross-tensile tests are also presented.
The cost-effectiveness of supported employment for adults with autism in the United Kingdom

Adults with autism face high rates of unemployment. Supported employment enables individuals with autism to secure and maintain a paid job in a regular work environment. The objective of this study was to assess the cost-effectiveness of supported employment compared with standard care (day services) for adults with autism in the United Kingdom. Thus, a decision-analytic economic model was developed, which used outcome data from the only trial that has evaluated supported employment for adults with autism in the United Kingdom. The main analysis considered intervention costs, while cost-savings associated with changes in accommodation status and National Health Service and personal social service resource use were examined in secondary analyses. Two outcome measures were used: the number of weeks in employment and the quality-adjusted life year. Supported employment resulted in better outcomes compared with standard care, at an extra cost of £18 per additional week in employment or £5600 per quality-adjusted life year. In secondary analyses that incorporated potential cost-savings, supported employment dominated standard care (i.e. it produced better outcomes at a lower total cost). The analysis suggests that supported employment schemes for adults with autism in the United Kingdom are cost-effective compared with standard care. Further research needs to confirm these findings.
Too good to intervene? Thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion strokes with minimal symptoms: an intention-to-treat analysis

Introduction The minimal stroke severity justifying endovascular intervention remains elusive; however, a significant proportion of patients presenting with large vessel occlusion (LVO) and mild symptoms subsequently decline and face poor outcomes. Objective To evaluate our experience with these patients by comparing best medical therapy with thrombectomy in an intention-to-treat analysis. Methods Analysis of prospectively collected data of all consecutive patients with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≤5, LVO on CT angiography, and baseline modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 0–2 from November 2014 to May 2016. After careful discussion with patients/family, a decision to pursue medical or interventional therapy was made. Deterioration (development of aphasia, neglect, and/or significant weakness) triggered reconsideration of thrombectomy. The primary outcome measure was NIHSS shift (discharge NIHSS score minus admission NIHSS score). Results Of the 32 patients qualifying for the study, 22 (69%) were primarily treated with medical therapy and 10 (31%) intervention. Baseline characteristics were comparable. Nine (41%) medically treated patients had subsequent deterioration requiring thrombectomy. Median time from arrival to deterioration was 5.2 hours (2.0–25.0). Successful reperfusion (modified Treatment in Cerebral Infarction 2b−3) was achieved in all 19 thrombectomy patients. The NIHSS shift significantly favored thrombectomy (−2.5 vs 0; p<0.01). The median NIHSS score at discharge was low with both thrombectomy (1 (0–3)) and medical therapy (2 (0.5–4.5)). 90-Day mRS 0–2 rates were 100% and 77%, respectively (p=0.15). Multivariable linear regression indicated that thrombectomy was independently associated with a beneficial NIHSS shift (unstandardized β −4.2 (95% CI −8.2 to −0.1); p=0.04). Conclusions Thrombectomy led to a shift towards a lower NIHSS in patients with LVO presenting with minimal stroke symptoms. Despite the overall perception that this condition is benign, nearly a quarter of patients primarily treated with medical therapy did not achieve independence at 90 days.