Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Periodontal effect of 8% Hyaluronan as an Adjunct to Scaling and Root Planning in the Treatment of Chronic Periodontitis(Comparative Study).

Background:Hyaluronic acid showed the anti-inflammatory, anti- edematous, anti-oxidant, and bacteriostatic effect on periodontal disease; the potential benefits of the periodontal effect of a single dose of hyaluronic acid on the clinical parameters were evaluated in this study. Methods: Thirty patients with chronic periodontitis were recruited to participate in this study. They were divided into three groups; the first group (10 patients) was treated with SRP and 8% hyaluronic acid gel was additionally applied, the second group (10 patients) was treated with SRP, and the third group (10 patients) was treated with 8% hyaluronic acid gel only. The clinical parameters which include Plaque index (PLI),Gingival index (GI), Bleeding on probing(BOP) and Relative Attachment level wereassessed at base line , one week and four weeks post treatment. Hyaluronic gel was administered subgingivally in the test sites at baseline Results:The main results of the three treated groups was summarized as follows: 1. A significant reduction in bleeding on probing and RAL was observed in all groups after four weeks (P <0.05), 2. Significantly lower bleeding on probing were observed in the hyaluronan groups, group 1and 3 compared to group 2 after 4 weeks (P <0.05), 3. RAL reductions between the groups were statistically significant. Conclusion:The local applications of hyaluronan gel (0.8%) in conjunction with scaling and root planning or used it only have a beneficial effect on clinical periodontal parameter in patients with chronic periodontitis. Key word:Hyaluronic acid; root planning; periodontitis
Computing with Membranes

We introduce a new computability model, of a distributed parallel type, based on the notion of a membrane structure. Such a structure consists of several cell-like membranes, recurrently placed inside a unique “skin” membrane. A plane representation is a Venn diagram without intersected sets and with a unique superset. In the regions delimited by the membranes there are placed objects. These objects are assumed to evolve: each object can be transformed in other objects, can pass through a membrane, or can dissolve the membrane in which it is placed. A priority relation between evolution rules can be considered. The evolution is done in parallel for all objects able to evolve. In this way, we obtain a computing device (we call it a P system): start with a certain number of objects in a certain membrane and let the system evolve; if it will halt (no object can further evolve), then the computation is finished, with the result given as the number of objects in a specified membrane. If the development of the system goes forever, then the computation fails to have an output. We prove that the P systems with the possibility of objects to cooperate characterize the recursively enumerable sets of natural numbers; moreover, systems with only two membranes suffice. In fact, we do not need cooperating rules, but we only use catalysts, specified objects which are present in the rules but are not modified by the rule application. One catalyst suffices. A variant is also considered, with the objects being strings over a given alphabet. The evolution rules are now based on string transformations. We investigate the case when either the rewriting operation from Chomsky grammars (with respect to context-free productions) or the splicing operation from H systems investigated in the DNA computing is used. In both cases, characterizations of recursively enumerable languages are obtained by very simple P systems: with three membranes in the rewriting case and four in the splicing case. Several open problems and directions for further research are formulated
Nitric Oxide and its Role in Cardiovascular Diseases The Open Nitric Oxide

Nitric oxide synthases (NOS) are the enzymes responsible for nitric oxide (NO) generation. NO is a free radical which reacts with various molecules to cause multiple biological effects. It is clear that the generation and actions of NO under physiological and pathophysiological conditions are exquisitely regulated and extend to almost every cell type and function within the circulation. While the molecule mediates many physiological functions, an excessive presence of NO is toxic to cells. The enzyme NOS, constitutively or inductively, catalyses the production of NO in several biological systems. NO is derived not only from NOS isoforms but also from NOS-independent sources. In mammals, to date, three distinct NOS isoforms have been identified: neuronal NOS (nNOS), inducible NOS (iNOS), and endothelial NOS (eNOS). The molecular structure, enzymology and pharmacology of these enzymes have been well defined, and reveal critical roles for the NOS system in a variety of important physiological processes. This review focuses on recent advances in the understanding of the interactions between NOS enzymes and pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and the role of NO agonists as potential therapeutic agents in treatment of CVD.
Computing Hopf Bifurcations I

This paper addresses the problems of detecting Hopf bifurcations in systems of ordinary differential equations and following curves of Hopf points in two-parameter families of vector fields. The established approach to this problem relies upon augmenting the equilibrium condition so that a Hopf bifurcation occurs at an isolated, regular point of the extended system. We propose two new methods of this type based on classical algebraic results regarding the roots of polynomial equations and properties of Kronecker products for matrices. In addition to their utility as augmented systems for use with standard Newton-type continuation methods, they are also particularly well adapted for solution by computer algebra techniques for vector fields of small or moderate dimension.
Tree-reweighted belief propagation algorithms and approximate ML estimation by pseudo-moment matching

In previous work [10], we presented a class of upper bounds on the log partition function of an arbitrary undirected graphical model based on solving a convex variational problem. Here we develop a class of lo-cal message-passing algorithms, which we call tree-reweighted belief propagation , for ef-ﬂciently computing the value of these upper bounds, as well as the associated pseudo-marginals. We also consider the uses of our bounds for the problem of maximum likelihood (ML) parameter estimation. For a completely observed model, our analysis gives rise to a concave lower bound on the log likelihood of the data. Maximizing this lower bound yields an approximate ML estimate which, in analogy to the moment-matching of exact ML estimation, can be interpreted in terms of pseudo-moment-matching . We present preliminary results illustrating the behavior of this approximate ML estimator.
Improving cardiotocography monitoring : a memoryless stream learning approach Position Paper

Cardiotocography is widely used, all over the world, for fetal heart rate and uterine contractions monitoring before (antepartum) and during (intrapartum) labor, regarding the detection of fetuses in danger of death or permanent damage. However, analysis of cardiotocogram tracings remains a large and unsolved issue. State-of-the-art monitoring systems provide quantitative parameters that are difficult to assess by the human eye. These systems also trigger alerts for changes in the behavior of the signals. However, they usually take up to 10 min to detect these different behaviors. Previous work using machine learning for concept drift detection has successfully achieved faster results in the detection of such events. Our aim is to extend the monitoring system with memory-less fading statistics, which have been successfully applied in drift detection and statistical tests, to improve detection of alarming events.
Nerve endings of filliform , fungiform and vallate papillae of dorsal tongue mucosa of White-lipped peccary ( Tayassu pecari ) : Neurohistological observations 1

Watanabe I. , Guimarães J.P., Boleta S.A. , Almeida S.R. Y. , Righeti M.M. , Santos T.C. , Miglino M.A. & Kfoury Junior J.R. 2009. Nerve endings of filliform, fungiform and vallate papillae of dorsal tongue mucosa of White-lipped peccary: Neurohistological observations. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(4):281-285. Departamento de Cirurgia, Setor de Anatomia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: watanabe@icb.usp. br The neurohistologic observations were performed using the specimens prepared by Winkelmann and Schmitt silver impregnation method. The tissues were fixed in 10% formalin solution and sections of 40μm thickness were obtained by Leica Cryostat at 30oC. The sections of dorsal mucosa of White-lipped peccary tongue showed numerous filliform and fungiform papillae, and two vallate papillae on the caudal part. The epithelial layer revealed queratinized epithelial cells and the connective tissue papillae of different sizes and shapes. Thick nerve fiber bundles are noted into the subepithelial connective tissue of the papillae. The connective tissue of fungiform and vallate papillae contained numerous sensitive nerves fibers bundles forming a complex nerve plexus.
Jump-Diffusion Long-Run Risks Models, Variance Risk Premium, and Volatility Dynamics

This paper calibrates a class of jump-diffusion long-run risks (LRR) models to quantify how well they can jointly explain the equity risk premium and the variance risk premium in the U.S. financial markets, and whether they can generate realistic dynamics of risk-neutral and realized volatilities. I provide evidence that the jump risk in volatility of long run consumption growth is a key component of the equity risk premium and the variance risk premium in financial markets. Moreover, I find that matching the VIX dynamics during the calibration process is crucial when comparing different jump channels. Specifically, a jump-in-growth LRR model generates a good fit of the average variance risk premium, but a poor fit of the dynamics of the VIX or realized stock volatility. In contrast, a jump-in-volatility LRR model generates a smaller variance risk premium but better fits the VIX and the realized stock volatility dynamics. Finally, jump-in-volatility models generate predictability of returns by the variance risk premium that is more consistent with the data.
The Meaning and Determinants of Skills Shortages

In this paper we use establishment-level data to examine what managers mean when they report having skills shortages. We find that the concept of a skills shortage is not always the same as a hard-to-fill vacancy despite the latter being used by many authors who have considered the economic consequences of skills shortages. It seems that, while employers appear not to have any problems for themselves in interpreting questions on ‘skills shortages’, we cannot rely on them being perceived in a uniform way by all employers. Indeed, many employers stress that, amongst both their existing workforce and job applicants, there appear to be important shortfalls in motivational and attitudinal skills, leading us to believe that social skills are an important part of the skills said to be in shortage. Our findings point to two main conclusions for future research. First, studies that investigate the causes and effects of ‘skill shortages’ need to pay greater attention to their definition and measurement. Secondly, in future research on establishments and their skill formation practices, further steps could be taken to gain clarification either directly or indirectly from respondents as to the experiences they choose to classify as a skills shortage.
Rare events and investor risk aversion : Evidence from crude oil options

The effect of four distinct events on investor risk aversion is evaluated using options data on the WTI crude oil futures contract during the 2007-2011 period. Absolute risk aversion functions and pricing kernels are estimated for eight fifteen-trading day windows--before and after each event. Riskneutral densities are parameterised under two cases: normal and Generalised Beta 2 distributional assumptions for returns. Results show that investor risk aversion functions, but not pricing kernels, are significantly and differentially affected by the events. The effect on risk aversion depends on the nature of the shock. Anticipated events affect the real-world density more than the risk-neutral density, leading to flatter risk aversion functions (i.e., less decreasing in wealth). In contrast, unanticipated events affect the risk-neutral density more than the real-world density, leading to steeper risk aversion functions (i.e., decreasing more rapidly in wealth). EFM classification: 350, 410 Presenting author: Gabriel J. Power ; research areas 410, 420, 430, 440, and 450
Analysis of the spatial and temporal variability of savanna productivity in the Northern Territory, Australia using MODIS data

Gross primary productivity (GPP) is a critical flux determining the quantity of carbon entering an ecosystem. Thus, studying GPP at larger spatial and longer time scales is necessary to identifying locations of potential sinks or sources of carbon. This study employs remote sensing techniques to estimate savanna GPP in the Northern Territory (NT), Australia using MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectro-radiometer) data. A light use efficiency algorithm was used with inputs from fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (fPAR) from the latest (Collection 5) MODIS product, regional specific climate data and field based light use efficiency (LUE) to estimate GPP for the entire savanna region in NT from 2000 to 2007. Results showed that GPP estimated with this approach captured the magnitude of GPP quite well with only 6% error compared to flux tower based GPP. The estimated GPP was then used to describe the spatial and temporal variations across the NT savanna region. The estimated GPP captured the spatial patterns reasonably well with closed forest having six times more GPP than Acacia vegetation. Whilst, in terms of inter-annual variability, arid ecosystems had higher variation (>20%) in GPP than forests ( 30% for arid vegetation versus 19% for forest). These findings are similar to other studies elsewhere and prove that a simple remote sensing based LUE models (with reliable meteorological data) can effectively capture the magnitude and patterns of GPP in savanna ecosystem in northern Australia.
Organizational Commitment & Career Satisfaction among Women Employees

This is a study of the relationship between organizational commitment, employee empowerment and career satisfaction of female work force. Women employees working in India have been approached for investigation of variables in this study. The results of the analysis state that organizational commitment and career satisfaction have a positive relationship. Employee empowerment has a positive moderating impact on the relationship of organizational commitment with career satisfaction of female gender. The outcome of the study establishes the importance of empowering women employees in the organization for ensuring higher career satisfaction. The framework brings insights for managers and organizations to establish policies and practices which facilitate women empowerment. This would result in the long-term growth of the organization.
Cross-pollination Enhances Macadamia Yields, Even With Branch-level Resource Limitation

Macadamia is partially self-incompatible and cross-pollination is considered important to improve yields. However, questions remain regarding the importance of self- vs. cross-pollination, and subsequently whether managed pollinators are useful in commercial orchards. Pollinators play a key role in cross-pollination, but for self-pollination, the protandrous florets might also benefit from the movement of potentially more viable self-pollen among florets, racemes, and trees through pollinator movement. There is also a lack of information on pollination deficits throughout orchards and whether by increasing the intensity of cross-pollination, final nut yield is limited by within-tree resource allocation. Using caged and bagged racemes on three cultivars, we found strong evidence for self-pollination, but no evidence that hand moving self-pollen within racemes, between racemes, or between trees improved final nut set. In all cases, hand cross-pollinated racemes yielded significantly more nuts. Hand cross-pollinated racemes also produced significantly more developed nuts than open-pollinated racemes (all racemes were exposed to pollinators). However, by increasing the intensity of hand cross-pollination per tree, we showed that resource allocation probably overinflates these measures of pollination deficit in macadamia. Despite this, our findings point to an opportunity to increase yields through additional cross-pollination, as high-intensity hand cross-pollination of flowering racemes within trees still resulted in increased nut set. Although self-pollination can occur in macadamia, to optimize yield potential, strategies to maximize cross-pollination should be adopted.
Probing Early Misfolding Events in Prion Protein Mutants by NMR Spectroscopy

The post-translational conversion of the ubiquitously expressed cellular form of the prion protein, PrPC, into its misfolded and pathogenic isoform, known as prion or PrPSc, plays a key role in prion diseases. These maladies are denoted transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) and affect both humans and animals. A prerequisite for understanding TSEs is unraveling the molecular mechanism leading to the conversion process whereby most α-helical motifs are replaced by β-sheet secondary structures. Importantly, most point mutations linked to inherited prion diseases are clustered in the C-terminal domain region of PrPC and cause spontaneous conversion to PrPSc. Structural studies with PrP variants promise new clues regarding the proposed conversion mechanism and may help identify “hot spots” in PrPC involved in the pathogenic conversion. These investigations may also shed light on the early structural rearrangements occurring in some PrPC epitopes thought to be involved in modulating prion susceptibility. Here we present a detailed overview of our solution-state NMR studies on human prion protein carrying different pathological point mutations and the implications that such findings may have for the future of prion research.
Cysteine Metabolism and Oxidative Processes in the Rat Liver and Kidney after Acute and Repeated Cocaine Treatment

The role of cocaine in modulating the metabolism of sulfur-containing compounds in the peripheral tissues is poorly understood. In the present study we addressed the question about the effects of acute and repeated (5 days) cocaine (10 mg/kg i.p.) administration on the total cysteine (Cys) metabolism and on the oxidative processes in the rat liver and kidney. The whole pool of sulfane sulfur, its bound fraction and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) were considered as markers of anaerobic Cys metabolism while the sulfate as a measure of its aerobic metabolism. The total-, non-protein- and protein- SH group levels were assayed as indicators of the redox status of thiols. Additionally, the activities of enzymes involved in H2S formation (cystathionine γ-lyase, CSE; 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase, 3-MST) and GSH metabolism (γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, γ-GT; glutathione S-transferase, GST) were determined. Finally, we assayed the concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) as markers of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, respectively. In the liver, acute cocaine treatment, did not change concentrations of the whole pool of sulfane sulfur, its bound fraction, H2S or sulfate but markedly decreased levels of non-protein SH groups (NPSH), ROS and GST activity while γ-GT was unaffected. In the kidney, acute cocaine significantly increased concentration of the whole pool of sulfane sulfur, reduced the content of its bound fraction but H2S, sulfate and NPSH levels were unchanged while ROS and activities of GST and γ-GT were reduced. Acute cocaine enhanced activity of the CSE and 3-MST in the liver and kidney, respectively. Repeatedly administered cocaine enhanced the whole pool of sulfane sulfur and reduced H2S level simultaneously increasing sulfate content both in the liver and kidney. After repeated cocaine, a significant decrease in ROS was still observed in the liver while in the kidney, despite unchanged ROS content, a marked increase in MDA level was visible. The repeated cocaine decreased 3-MST and increased γ-GT activities in both organs but reduced GST in the kidney. Our results show that cocaine administered at a relatively low dose shifts Cys metabolism towards the formation of sulfane sulfur compounds which possess antioxidant and redox regulatory properties and are a source of H2S which can support mitochondrial bioenergetics.
Minimax Optimal Procedures for Locally Private Estimation

ABSTRACT Working under a model of privacy in which data remain private even from the statistician, we study the tradeoff between privacy guarantees and the risk of the resulting statistical estimators. We develop private versions of classical information-theoretical bounds, in particular those due to Le Cam, Fano, and Assouad. These inequalities allow for a precise characterization of statistical rates under local privacy constraints and the development of provably (minimax) optimal estimation procedures. We provide a treatment of several canonical families of problems: mean estimation and median estimation, generalized linear models, and nonparametric density estimation. For all of these families, we provide lower and upper bounds that match up to constant factors, and exhibit new (optimal) privacy-preserving mechanisms and computationally efficient estimators that achieve the bounds. Additionally, we present a variety of experimental results for estimation problems involving sensitive data, including salaries, censored blog posts and articles, and drug abuse; these experiments demonstrate the importance of deriving optimal procedures. Supplementary materials for this article are available online.
Whether Professional Training Matters: Attitudinal Antecedents to the Turnover Intentions of Social Workers in Guangzhou, China

Abstract This study aims to identify whether the professional training of social workers has an effect on the attitudinal antecedents of turnover intention. This study investigated 395 trained and 353 non-trained social workers from the Integrated Family Service Centers in Guangzhou, China. It was found that professional education did not significantly alter the attitudinal antecedents to turnover intention. In both groups, a higher feeling of burnout or a lower level of organizational commitment produced a higher intention of turnover. Furthermore, the significant influences of job satisfaction with professional association or job satisfaction with organizational environment were found to be respectively mediated by burnout and organizational commitment. This study not only provides insights into the stabilization of the emerging workforce of Chinese social workers, but also poses serious questions about social work education.