Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Ornithokinin (avian bradykinin) from the skin of the Chinese bamboo odorous frog, Odorrana versabilis

One of the most widespread and abundant families of pharmacologically active peptides in amphibian defensive skin secretions is the bradykinins and related peptides. Despite retaining certain primary structural attributes that assign them to this peptide family, bradykinins and related peptides are unique among amphibian skin peptides in that they exhibit a wide range of primary structural variations, post‐translational modifications and/or N‐terminal or C‐terminal extensions. Initially it was believed that their high degree of primary structural heterogeneity was reflective of random gene mutations within species, but latterly, there is an increasing body of evidence that the spectrum of structural modifications found within this peptide family is reflective of the vertebrate predator spectrum of individual species. Here we report the discovery of ornithokinin (avian bradykinin – Thr6, Leu8‐bradykinin) in the skin secretion of the Chinese bamboo odorous frog, Odorrana versabilis. Molecular cloning of its biosynthetic precursor‐encoding cDNA from a skin secretion‐derived cDNA library revealed a deduced open‐reading frame of 86 amino acid residues, encoding a single copy of ornithokinin towards its C‐terminus. The domain architecture of this ornithokinin precursor protein was consistent with that of a typical amphibian skin peptide and quite different to that of the ornithokininogen from chicken plasma. Ornithokinin was reported to induce hypotension in the chicken and to contract the chicken oviduct but to have no obvious effect on the rat uterus. However, in this study, synthetic ornithokinin was found to contract the rat ileum (EC50 = 539 nM) and to increase contraction frequency in the rat uterus (EC50 = 1.87 μM). Copyright © 2014 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Direct computation of long time processes in peptides and proteins: Reaction path study of the coil‐to‐helix transition in polyalanine

The MaxFlux reaction path algorithm was used to isolate optimal transition pathways for the coil‐to‐helix transition in polyalanine. Eighteen transition pathways, each connecting one random coil configuration with an ideal α‐helical configuration, were computed and analyzed. The transition pathway energetics and mechanism were analyzed in terms of the progression of the peptide nonbonded contact formation, helicity, end‐to‐end distance and energetics. It was found that (1) localized turns characterized by i, i + 3 hydrogen bonds form in the early stages of the coil‐to‐helix transition, (2) the peptide first collapses and then becomes somewhat more extended in the final stage of helix formation, and (3) 310‐helix formation does not appear to be a necessary step in the transition from coil to helix. These conclusions are in agreement with the results of more computationally intensive direct molecular dynamics simulations. Proteins 1999;36:249–261. © 1999 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Angiographic Assessment of Reperfusion in Acute Myocardial Infarction by Myocardial Blush Grade

Background—Angiographic successful reperfusion in acute myocardial infarction has been defined as TIMI 3 flow. However, TIMI 3 flow does not always result in effective myocardial reperfusion. Myocardial blush grade (MBG) is an angiographic measure of myocardial perfusion. We hypothesized that optimal angiographic reperfusion is defined by TIMI 3 flow and MBG 2 or 3. Methods and Results—In 924 consecutive patients with TIMI 3 flow after angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction, we prospectively studied the value of MBG. End points were death, MACE, enzymatic infarct size, and residual left ventricular ejection fraction. Follow-up was 16±11 months. Of the 924 patients, 101 (11%) patients had MBG 0 or 1. Mortality was significantly higher in patients with MBG 0 or 1 compared with patients with MBG 2 or 3 (relative risk, 4.7; 95% CI, 2.3 to 9.5;P <0.001). The combined incidence of MACE was higher in patients with MBG 0 or 1 compared with patients with MBG 2 or 3 (relative risk, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.8;P =0.009). Enzymatic infarct size was larger (1437±2388 versus 809±1672, P =0.001) and left ventricular ejection fraction was lower (37.7±10.6 versus 43.8±11.1, P <0.001) in patients with MBG 0 or 1 compared with patients with MBG 2 or 3. Conclusions—MBG is a strong angiographic predictor of mortality in patients with TIMI 3 flow after primary angioplasty. Enzymatic infarct size is larger and residual left ventricular ejection fraction is lower in patients with MBG 0 or 1 compared with MBG 2 or 3. Angiographic definition of successful reperfusion should include both TIMI 3 flow as well as MBG 2 or 3.
Theoretical Analysis of Dielectric Modulated Drift Region for Si Power Devices

This letter presents a theoretical analysis of the dielectric modulated drift region in Si power devices. By inserting multiple dielectric columns in the drift region the tradeoff between the breakdown voltage (BV) and the specific ON-resistance (RON,sp) can be significantly improved. An analytical model for the electric field distribution and breakdown voltage of this structure is derived and a methodology is proposed for identifying the optimal BV-RON,sp tradeoff. The 2-D numerical simulations are conducted to verify the accuracy of the proposed model.
Communication, Coordination, and Camaraderie in World of Warcraft

In applying traditional game theory to multiplayer computer games, not enough attention has been given to actual player practice in local settings. To do this, the author describes a team of players in the massively multiplayer online role-playing game World of Warcraft. This motley group learned how to defeat an end-game dungeon through collaborative improvements on communication and coordination. It focused on sustaining and building player relationships and learning together rather than the accepted norm of obtaining magical items. Trust was forged through a desire to ``hang out and have fun'' and was evidenced by the joviality of their communication. The group's ability to reflect and be consistent about its desires for camaraderie allowed it to recover from a poor performing night, which threatened to disband the group. The team's success depended on its ability to define and retain a coherent group identity and establish shared social incentives rather than individual incentives for participation.
Prior Probability Bias in Information Seeking and Opinion Revision.

In two experiments subjects successfully acquired probability biases, which they then used in an information-processing task. In general, their opinion revision in information processing at low levels of prior probability bias was conservative; they were sometimes risky at high levels. The amount of conservatism was related to the diagnostic impact of the data processed, and the prior probability bias affected the amount of information subjects bought for a decision favored by the bias.
Religion and Prejudice in Ghana and Canada: Religious Fundamentalism, Right-Wing

Research has established that religious orientation (especially religious fundalnentalism), right-wing authoritarianism, and attitudes towards minority groups are interrelated (Altemeyer, 1996; Altelneyer & Hunsberger, 1992; Hunsberger, 1995, 1996). The present study attempted to address the lack of cross-cultural research on these is- sues, comparing Ghanaian and Canadian samples. The psychonetric properties of the scales used remained acceptable in the Ghanaian sample, although (with the exception of the Attitudes Towards Woinen scale) they were generally weaker than those obtained with Canadian samples. As expected, right-wing authoritarianisln and religious fundanentalisrn were positively correlated, and both were in turn associated with negative attitudes toward homosexuals and women. Partial correlations indicated that right-wing authoritarianism was the better predictor of sexism, but religious fundanentalism best predicted holnophobia. Scale properties and intercorrelations were reasonably robust .
Biomechanical Differences of Foot-Strike Patterns During Running: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis.

STUDY DESIGN Systematic review with meta-analysis. OBJECTIVES To determine the biomechanical differences between foot-strike patterns used when running. BACKGROUND Strike patterns during running have received attention in the recent literature due to their potential mechanical differences and associated injury risks. METHODS Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS, SciELO, and SPORTDiscus) were searched through July 2014. Studies (cross-sectional, case-control, prospective, and retrospective) comparing the biomechanical characteristics of foot-strike patterns during running in distance runners at least 18 years of age were included in this review. Two independent reviewers evaluated the risk of bias. A meta-analysis with a random-effects model was used to combine the data from the included studies. RESULTS Sixteen studies were included in the final analysis. In the meta-analyses of kinematic variables, significant differences between forefoot and rearfoot strikers were found for foot and knee angle at initial contact and knee flexion range of motion. A forefoot-strike pattern resulted in a plantar-flexed ankle position and a more flexed knee position, compared to a dorsiflexed ankle position and a more extended knee position for the rearfoot strikers, at initial contact with the ground. In the comparison of rearfoot and midfoot strikers, midfoot strikers demonstrated greater ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and decreased knee flexion range of motion compared to rearfoot strikers. For kinetic variables, the meta-analysis revealed that rearfoot strikers had higher vertical loading rates compared to forefoot strikers. CONCLUSION There are differences in kinematic and kinetic characteristics between foot-strike patterns when running. Clinicians should be aware of these characteristics to help in the management of running injuries and advice on training.
Parental mental health: disruptions to parenting and outcomes for children

The association between parental mental health problems and negative outcomes for children has been long known. This paper addresses three issues in relation to this. First, the scale of the problem is outlined, in terms of both the prevalence of mental health problems in parents and the likelihood of children exhibiting negative outcomes in these circumstances. Secondly, the specificity, or lack of it, of particular outcomes in the child in relation to different parental mental health problems is explored. Thirdly, the paper focuses on the importance of disruptions to parenting as a mechanism in the transmission of mental health problems to negative impacts on the child. Examples are given of how parenting is disrupted in non-clinical community populations, and the subsequent impacts on the child. The case is made for the preventative importance of parenting and family support in mediating between parental mental health problems and negative impacts on the child.
and Firms Productivity in Cameroon (cid:2)

Using panel data from manufacturing ﬁrms in Cameroon, this study investigates the impact of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) on ﬁrms’ productivity in Cameroon. The empirical model is derived from the ﬂexible Translog production function. The strategic complementarities between ICT-capital and organizational changes are accounted for. We estimate our model using the System-Generalized Method of Moments (GMMS) estimator as it is adequate to deal with endogeneity issues. Our results reveal that the eﬀects of ICT on productivity are catalyzed by the implementation of organizational changes. Moreover, we identiﬁed the speciﬁc organizational changes that deliver the highest beneﬁts.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy Stimulates Endogenous Host Progenitor Cells to Improve Colonic Epithelial Regeneration

Patients who undergo pelvic radiotherapy may develop severe and chronic complications resulting from gastrointestinal alterations. The lack of curative treatment highlights the importance of novel and effective therapeutic strategies. We thus tested the therapeutic benefit of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) treatment and proposed molecular mechanisms of action. MSC efficacy was tested in an experimental model of radiation-induced severe colonic ulceration histologically similar to that observed in patients. In this model, MSC from bone marrow were administered intravenously, immediately or three weeks (established lesions) after irradiation. MSC therapy reduces radiation-induced colonic ulceration and increases animal survival. MSC treatment induces therapeutic efficacy whatever the time of cell infusion. Infused-MSC engraft in the colon but also increase endogenous MSC mobilization in blood that have lasting benefits over time. In vitro analysis demonstrates that the MSC effect is mediated by paracrine mechanisms through the non-canonical WNT (Wingless integration site) pathway. In irradiated rat colons, MSC treatment increases the expression of the non-canonical WNT4 ligand by epithelial cells. The epithelial regenerative process is improved after MSC injection by stimulation of colonic epithelial cells positive for SOX9 (SRY-box containing gene 9) progenitor/stem cell markers. This study demonstrates that MSC treatment induces stimulation of endogenous host progenitor cells to improve the regenerative process and constitutes an initial approach to arguing in favor of the use of MSC to limit/reduce colorectal damage induced by radiation.
‘Worth’ and mental contents in designing for ageing citizens’ form of life

In designing technologies for older people, it is essential to understand their form of life, how they mentally represent it and its relations to technology. We can use content-based psychological research to investigate mental contents of people, who employ this knowledge to solve important psychological issues such as problems of human-technology interaction. In this particular study, we have focused on the contents of the concept of worth, as this notion opens up an important perspective to the motives of the users of technology. A user study where around 400 older citizens expressed their subjective opinions about significant areas of life was carried out. These areas of life constitute their individual form of life. There were two basic questions in our investigation. Firstly, we wanted to find those areas of life for which older people prefer and expect new products and services to be developed. Secondly, we investigated ageing persons’ subjective opinions of the most important product qualities for these products. In conclusion, the paper presents the relevant ‘worths’ that ageing citizens perceive in technology. Understanding the contents of product worth related to users’ form of life opens up new perspectives on the road to more focused design of successful and desired products and services for the ageing population.
Contemporary capitalism, globalization, regionalization and the persistence of national variation

The literatures on globalization and regionalization on the one hand, and on the institutional distinctiveness of national capitalisms on the other, seem to pull in very different directions. Nonetheless, an increasing number of international and comparative political economists sensitive to the institutional and cultural variability of contemporary capitalism identify tendencies towards convergence—often towards an Anglo-US model of deregulated neoliberal capitalism. In this article I critically review the literature on convergence, difference and divergence in the global political economy, differentiating between neoclassical and institutionalist perspectives. Resisting arguments which posit a natural selection process initiated by untrammelled free market competition and free capital mobility, I identify the contingent, political and frequently coercive nature of the convergence process. This is illustrated through a discussion of regional selection mechanisms in the context of European Monetary Union and the East Asian financial crisis. In so far as evolutionary selection mechanisms can be identified in the European context, selecting for a more residual social model, these are more a product of the contingent process of European economic integration than they are a necessary consequence of globalization. Moreover, in so far as similarly convergent processes can be identified in contemporary East Asia, they are less a product of globalization than of the ‘predatory neoliberalism’ of a beleagured Washington Consensus.
Dynamics of Aβ42 Reduction in Plasma, CSF and Brain of Rats Treated with the γ-Secretase Modulator, GSM-10h

Background:Allosteric modulation of γ-secretase is an attractive therapeutic approach for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. We recently identified a novel γ-secretase modulator, GSM-10h, which effectively lowers Aβ42 production in cells and in amyloid precursor protein transgenic mice. Objective: Here, we describe the in vivo characterization of GSM-10h in a model of endogenous Aβ production. Methods: Rats were administered orally with GSM-10h, and the effect on Aβ levels in peripheral and central compartments was determined. In addition, the effect of GSM-10h on Notch processing was assessed. Results: Acute administration of GSM-10h to rats causes a dose-dependent decrease in the level of Aβ42 in plasma, CSF and brain, with little effect on the level of Aβ40 in these compartments. The magnitude of Aβ42 lowering in the CSF and brain was further enhanced upon sub-chronic administration of GSM-10h. No deleterious effect on Notch processing was evident in either of these studies. To further explore the dynamics of Aβ42 reduction in peripheral and CNS compartments, a time course study was conducted. In all compartments, the decrease in Aβ42 was greatest at 6 h after administration of GSM-10h. This decrease in Aβ42 was maintained for 9–15 h, after which time Aβ42 levels returned to baseline levels. Encouragingly, no rebound in Aβ42 levels beyond baseline levels was observed. Conclusions: These findings support the γ-secretase modulator profile of GSM-10h, and highlight the utility of the rat for assessing the pre-clinical efficacy of γ-secretase modulators.
Social communication in children with autism spectrum disorder (asd): Correlation between DSM‐5 and autism classification system of functioning—social communication (ACSF:SC)

The aim of this study was to classify children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) according to Autism Classification System of Functioning: Social Communication (ACSF:SC) criteria, in order to investigate the association between social communication ability, ASD severity, adaptive functioning, cognitive abilities and psychoeducational profile. The severity of social communication impairment was specified through Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders‐5th edition (DSM‐5) and ACSF:SC tool. The ADOS‐2, Vineland‐II and PEP‐3 were administered to all participants. We found a positive correlation between DSM‐5 levels and ACSF:SC‐Typical Performance (r = 0.35; P = 0.007) and ACSF:SC‐Capacity (r = 0.31; P = 0.01) levels. Children included in the five levels of ACSF:SC (Typical Performance and Capacity) showed statistically significant differences in ADOS‐2 (Social Affect), Vineland‐II (Communication and Socialization), and PEP‐3 (Communication, motor skills, maladaptive behavior) scores. The results of this study indicate that ACSF:SC provide a better understanding of functional profile of children with ASD based on the social communication abilities. Children with greater severity of social communication showed more difficulty in adaptive behavior and psychoeducational profiles. In conclusion, the ACSF:SC could help clinicians and therapists not only to understand the strength and weakness of preschool children with ASD but also to devise specific treatment in order to promote their social integration. Autism Res 2017. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Autism Res 2017, 10: 1249–1258. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Giving Advice about Preferred Actions to Reinforcement Learners Via Knowledge-Based Kernel Regression

We present a novel formulation for providing advice to a reinforcement learner that employs support-vector regression as its function approximator. Our new method extends a recent advice-giving technique, called Knowledge-Based Kernel Regression (KBKR), that accepts advice concerning a single action of a reinforcement learner. In KBKR, users can say that in some set of states, an action's value should be greater than some linear expression of the current state. In our new technique, which we call Preference KBKR (Pref-KBKR), the user can provide advice in a more natural manner by recommending that some action is preferred over another in the specified set of states. Specifying preferences essentially means that users are giving advice about policies rather than Q values, which is a more natural way for humans to present advice. We present the motivation for preference advice and a proof of the correctness of our extension to KBKR. In addition, we show empirical results that our method can make effective use of advice on a novel reinforcement-learning task, based on the RoboCup simulator, which we call Breakaway. Our work demonstrates the significant potential of advice-giving techniques for addressing complex reinforcement learning problems, while further demonstrating the use of support-vector regression for reinforcement learning.
The Effect of Storage Time on Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Recovery from Human Lipoaspirates

Multipotent adipose-derived stromal/stem cells (ASCs) can be isolated with high yield from human subcutaneous lipoaspirates. This study reports our experience isolating, expanding, differentiating and immunophenotypically characterizing ASCs over a period of 4 days after having surgically obtained the lipoaspirate samples. The ultimate goal is to understand how to optimize the consistent isolation of ASCs from lipoaspirates. The length of time between adipose tissue harvest and processing will need to be systematically evaluated with respect to cell yield, viability, and function since some distance is likely to exist between the plastic surgeon’s office where lipoaspiration is performed and the current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) laboratory where the ASCs are isolated. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of time delays on the yield and function of ASCs after collagenase digestion. We were able to isolate ASCs from lipoaspirates up to 72 h after the surgical procedure. The ASCs isolated on sequential days after the original tissue harvest proliferated, differentiated and maintained cell surface markers. We found that the initial 24-hour period is optimal for isolating ASCs with respect to cell yield and that there was no significant difference between ASC cell proliferation and differentiation ability within this period of time. In contrast, each of these parameters declined significantly for tissues maintained at room temperature for 48 or 72 h prior to isolation. These findings should be considered in the future development of standard operating procedures for cGMP processing of clinical-grade human ASCs.