Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Regional Variation in Arterial Stiffening and Dysfunction in Western Diet‐Induced Obesity

Central vascular stiffening, determined in vivo via pulse wave velocity (PWV), independently predicts cardiovascular event risk and is accelerated in obesity. Little is known regarding potential regional variations in arterial stiffening in obesity. We assessed aortic and femoral PWV with ex vivo analyses of femoral and coronary structure/function in a mouse model of western diet (WD; high‐fat/high‐sugar)‐induced obesity. WD increased aortic and femoral PWV. Ex vivo femoral artery analysis revealed a leftward shift in the strain‐stress relationship, increased modulus of elasticity, and decreased compliance indicative of increased stiffness following WD. Confocal and multiphoton fluorescence microscopy revealed that increased femoral stiffness involved decreased elastin/collagen ratio in WD. Analysis of the femoral internal elastic lamina (IEL) revealed reduced number and size of fenestrae with WD. Coronary artery stiffness/structure was unchanged by WD. Functionally, femoral, not coronary, arteries exhibited endothelial dysfunction while coronary, not femoral, arteries exhibited increased vasoconstrictor responsiveness. Overall, our data highlight important regional variations in arterial stiffening/dysfunction and highlight IEL fenestrae remodeling as a potential contributor to femoral artery stiffening in obesity.
Lawyers’ question content and children’s responses in Scottish criminal courts

ABSTRACT Differences between prosecutors and defense lawyers with respect to the centrality of the information sought and topic of the questions asked, and the effects on witnesses’ responses, were examined in 56 trial transcripts of 5- to 17-year-old children testifying as alleged victims of sexual abuse. Over 40% of all questions focused on peripheral content and defense lawyers asked more questions prompting peripheral information than prosecutors. Overall, children were more productive to questions that prompted central information than questions that prompted peripheral information, and to questions seeking information about actions rather than any other topic, particularly when prompted by prosecutors. However, children were less responsive, and expressed more uncertainty and self-contradictions in response to questions that prompted central information than peripheral information. Lawyers did not alter the centrality of the information sought or topic of their questions when prompting children of different ages. These findings suggest that the centrality of the information sought and question topic are important parameters to consider when evaluating children’s responses to different types of questions.
Plasticity of the Parental Brain: A Case for Neurogenesis

Profound behavioural changes occur in the mother at parturition, together with extensive remodelling of neural circuits. These changes include neurochemical, morphological and functional plasticity. The continuous generation of new neurones in the hippocampus and the olfactory system is an additional form of neuroplasticity that contributes to motherhood. This review describes the reciprocal relationships between hippocampal and olfactory neurogenesis and parental behaviour. Studies in rodents demonstrate that parturition and interactions with the young affect both cell proliferation and survival in a different manner across neurogenic zones. Species in which an individual recognition of the offspring is formed, such as sheep, show a down‐regulation of neurogenesis during the perinatal period. This would function to decrease cell competition, favouring the selection of newborn neurones involved in olfactory recognition of the young. Also, in biparental species, increases in olfactory neurogenesis occur in the father in response to pup exposure during the early postpartum period. Oestradiol, corticosterone and prolactin changes associated with parturition are the main physiological factors involved in the regulation of neurogenesis that have been determined so far. In the father, prolactin mediates an enhancement of olfactory neurogenesis. Contradictory evidence indicates a functional link between neurogenesis and parenting behaviour. Mice receiving focal irradiation of the olfactory neurogenic subventricular zone show few disturbances in the expression of maternal behaviour, whereas a reduction of both hippocampal and olfactory neurogenesis as a result of the infusion of an anti‐mitotic agent induces behavioural deficits. Disrupting prolactin signalling abolished increased paternal neurogenesis and offspring recognition by the father, and rescuing this neurogenesis restored recognition behaviour. More studies that selectively suppress the changes of neurogenesis are needed to confirm the role of new neurones in regulating parenting behaviour.
Para‐allopatry in hybridizing fire‐bellied toads (Bombina bombina and B. variegata): Inference from transcriptome‐wide coalescence analyses

Ancient origins, profound ecological divergence, and extensive hybridization make the fire‐bellied toads Bombina bombina and B. variegata (Anura: Bombinatoridae) an intriguing test case of ecological speciation. Previous modeling has proposed that the narrow Bombina hybrid zones represent strong barriers to neutral introgression. We test this prediction by inferring the rate of gene exchange between pure populations on either side of the intensively studied Kraków transect. We developed a method to extract high confidence sets of orthologous genes from de novo transcriptome assemblies, fitted a range of divergence models to these data and assessed their relative support with analytic likelihood calculations. There was clear evidence for postdivergence gene flow, but, as expected, no perceptible signal of recent introgression via the nearby hybrid zone. The analysis of two additional Bombina taxa (B. v. scabra and B. orientalis) validated our parameter estimates against a larger set of prior expectations. Despite substantial cumulative introgression over millions of years, adaptive divergence of the hybridizing taxa is essentially unaffected by their lack of reproductive isolation. Extended distribution ranges also buffer them against small‐scale environmental perturbations that have been shown to reverse the speciation process in other, more recent ecotypes.
The economic burden of childhood invasive pneumococcal diseases and pneumonia in Taiwan: Implications for a pneumococcal vaccination program

Invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) and pneumonia are the major causes of morbidity and deaths in children in the world. The management of IPD and pneumonia is an important economic burden on healthcare systems and families. The aim of this study was to assess the economic burden of IPD and pneumonia among younger children in Taiwan. We used a cost-illness approach to identify the cost categories for analysis in this study according to various perspectives. We obtained data of admission, outpatient, and emergency department visit data from the National Health Insurance Research (NHIR) database for children <5 y of age between January 2008 and December 2008. A prospective survey was administered to the families of patients to obtain detailed personal costs. All costs are presented in US dollars and were estimated by extrapolating 2008 cost data to 2013 price levels. We estimated the number of pneumococcal disease cases that were averted if the PCV-13 vaccine had been available in 2008. The total annual social and hospital costs for IPD were US $4.3 million and US $926,000, respectively. The total annual social and hospital costs for pneumonia were US $150 million and US $17 million, respectively. On average, families spent US $653 or US $218 when their child was diagnosed with IPD or pneumonia, respectively. This cost is approximately 27%–81% of the monthly salary of an unskilled worker. In conclusion, a safe and effective pediatric pneumococcal vaccine is needed to reduce the economic burden caused by pneumococcal infection.
Network Mechanisms Generating Abnormal and Normal Hippocampal High-Frequency Oscillations: A Computational Analysis,,

Abstract High-frequency oscillations (HFOs) are an intriguing potential biomarker for epilepsy, typically categorized according to peak frequency as either ripples (100–250 Hz) or fast ripples (>250 Hz). In the hippocampus, fast ripples were originally thought to be more specific to epileptic tissue, but it is still very difficult to distinguish which HFOs are caused by normal versus pathological brain activity. In this study, we use a computational model of hippocampus to investigate possible network mechanisms underpinning normal ripples, pathological ripples, and fast ripples. Our results unify several prior findings regarding HFO mechanisms, and also make several new predictions regarding abnormal HFOs. We show that HFOs are generic, emergent phenomena whose characteristics reflect a wide range of connectivity and network input. Although produced by different mechanisms, both normal and abnormal HFOs generate similar ripple frequencies, underscoring that peak frequency is unable to distinguish the two. Abnormal ripples are generic phenomena that arise when input to pyramidal cells overcomes network inhibition, resulting in high-frequency, uncoordinated firing. In addition, fast ripples transiently and sporadically arise from the precise conditions that produce abnormal ripples. Lastly, we show that such abnormal conditions do not require any specific network structure to produce coherent HFOs, as even completely asynchronous activity is capable of producing abnormal ripples and fast ripples in this manner. These results provide a generic, network-based explanation for the link between pathological ripples and fast ripples, and a unifying description for the entire spectrum from normal ripples to pathological fast ripples.
UvA-DARE ( Digital Academic Repository ) Establishing macroecological trait datasets : digitalisation , extrapolation and validation of diet preferences in terrestrial mammals worldwide

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Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation study of inositol phosphorylceramide synthase – inhibitor complex in leishmaniasis: Insight into the structure based drug design

Inositol phosphorylceramide synthase (IPCS) has emerged as an important, interesting and attractive target in the sphingolipid metabolism of Leishmania. IPCS catalyzes the conversion of ceramide to IPC which forms the most predominant sphingolipid in Leishmania. IPCS has no mammalian equivalent and also plays an important role in maintaining the infectivity and viability of the parasite. The present study explores the possibility of targeting IPCS; development of suitable inhibitors for the same would serve as a treatment strategy for the infectious disease leishmaniasis. Five coumarin derivatives were developed as inhibitors of IPCS protein. Molecular dynamics simulations of the complexes of IPCS with these inhibitors were performed which provided insights into the binding modes of the inhibitors. In vitro screening of the top three compounds has resulted in the identification of one of the compounds (compound 3) which shows little cytotoxic effects. This compound therefore represents a good starting point for further in vivo experimentation and could possibly serve as an important drug candidate for the treatment of leishmaniasis.
Realised Co-Skewness of the VIX and S&P 500 and the Equity Premium

We provide theoretical and empirical justifications for linking the realised co-skewness between the VIX and the S&P 500 to conditional equity premiums. The realised co-skewness, as a measure of hedging benefits, shows a significant (and independent to that of the variance risk premium) negative prediction for the next month equity premium. We also present a new measure of higher co-moments using high frequency data under the general jump diffusion model. The estimator is robust to the presence of market microstructure noise and can be extended to other co-moment measurement in current risk management practices.
Comparison of Early Maladaptive Schemas and Parenting Origins in Patients with Opioid Abuse and Non-Abusers

Objective The aim of this study was to examine the difference of early maladaptive schemas and parenting origins in opioid abusers and non-opioid abusers. Method The early maladaptive schemas and parenting origins were compared in 56 opioid abusers and 56 non-opioids abusers. Schemas were assessed by the Young Schema Questionnaire 3rd (short form); and parenting origins were assessed by the Young Parenting Inventory. Results Data were analyzed by multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). The analysis showed that the means for schemas between opioid abusers and non-opioid abusers were different. Chi square test showed that parenting origins were significantly associated with their related schemas. Conclusion The early maladaptive schemas and parenting origins in opioid abusers were more than non-opioid abusers; and parenting origins were related to their Corresponding schemas.
The Relation of Brain Oscillations to Attentional Networks

Previous studies have suggested the relation of particular frequency bands such as theta (4–8 Hz), alpha (8–14 Hz), beta (14–30 Hz), or gamma (>30 Hz) to cognitive functions. However, there has been controversy over which bands are specifically related to attention. We used the attention network test to separate three anatomically defined brain networks that carry out the functions of alerting, orienting, and executive control of attention. High-density scalp electrical recording was performed to record synchronous oscillatory activity and power spectrum analyses based on functional magnetic resonance imaging constrained dipole modeling were conducted for each attentional network. We found that each attentional network has a distinct set of oscillations related to its activity. The alerting network showed a specific decrease in theta-, alpha-, and beta-band activity 200–450 ms after a warning signal. The orienting network showed an increase in gamma-band activity at ∼200 ms after a spatial cue, indicating the location of a target. The executive control network revealed a complex pattern when a target was surrounded with incongruent flankers compared with congruent flankers. There was an early (<400 ms) increase in gamma-band activity, a later (>400 ms) decrease in beta- and low gamma-band activity after the target onset, and a decrease of all frequency bands before response followed by an increase after the response. These data demonstrate that attention is not related to any single frequency band but that each network has a distinct oscillatory activity and time course.
An Examination of the Effect of Exercise on Stress and Satisfaction for Entrepreneurs

In today’s society, health and fitness are given much publicity. Advertisements, magazine articles, and television shows trumpet the benefits of exercise and encourage people to undertake a fitness regimen. Indeed, it would make sense that an exercise program may lead to a less stressful and more productive life for the entrepreneur. However, busy schedules and the challenge of maintaining a fitness regimen lead many people to quit these programs soon after starting them and to return to their more sedentary lifestyles. This paper empirically examines whether spending time away from the business exercising is time well spent. To address this issue, we conducted a study of 472 small business owners and tested hypotheses on the role of exercise on stress and job satisfaction. Keywords: entrepreneurs, exercise, leadership, fitness, health, job satisfaction, entrepreneurial stress
Kv3.3b expression defines the shape of the complex spike in the Purkinje cell

The complex spike (CS) in cerebellar Purkinje Cells (PC) is not an all-or-nothing phenomena as originally proposed, but shows variability depending on the spiking behavior of the Inferior Olive and intrinsic variability in the number and shape of spikelets. The potassium channel Kv3.3b, which has been proposed to undergo developmental changes during the postnatal PC maturation, has been shown to be crucial for the repolarization of the spikelets in the CS. We address here the regulation of the intrinsic CS variability by the expression of inactivating Kv3.3 channels in PCs by combining patch-clamp recordings and single-cell PCR methods on the same neurons, using a technique that we recently optimized to correlate single cell transcription levels with membrane ion channel electrophysiology. We show that while the inactivating TEA sensitive Kv3.3 current peak intensity increases with postnatal age, the channel density does not, arguing against postnatal developmental changes of Kv3.3b expression. Real time PCR of Kv3.3b showed a high variability from cell to cell, correlated with the Kv3.3 current density, and suggesting that there are no mechanisms regulating these currents beyond the mRNA pool. We show a significant correlation between normalized quantity of Kv3.3b mRNA and both the number of CS spikelets and their rate of voltage fluctuation, linking the intrinsic CS shape directly to the Kv3.3b mRNA pool. Comparing the observed cell-to-cell variance with studies on transcriptional noise suggests that fluctuations of the Kv3.3b mRNA pool are possibly not regulated but represent merely transcriptional noise, resulting in intrinsic variability of the CS.
A New Cross-Layer Dynamic Spectrum Access Architecture for TV White Space Cognitive Radio Applications

As evermore applications and services are developed for wireless devices, the dramatic growth in user data traffic has led to the legacy channels becoming congested with the corresponding imperative of requiring more spectra. This has motivated both regulatory bodies and commercial companies to investigate strategies to increase the efficiency of the existing spectrum. With the emergence of cognitive radio technology, and the transference of TV channels from analogue to digital platforms, a unique opportunity to exploit spectrum by mobile digital service providers has emerged, commonly referred to as TV White Space (TVWS). One of the challenges in utilising TVWS spectrum is reliable primary user (PU) detection which is essential as any unlicensed secondary user has no knowledge of the PU and thereby can generate interference. This paper addresses the issue of PU detection by introducing a new dynamic spectrum access algorithm that exploits the unique properties of how digital TV (DTV) frequencies are deployed. A fuzzy logic inference model based on an enhanced detection algorithm (EDA) is used to resolve the inherent uncertain nature of DTV signals. Simulation results confirm EDA significantly improves the detection probability of a TVWS channel compared to existing PU detection techniques, while providing consistently low false positive detections. The paper also analyses the impact of the hidden node problem on EDA by modelling representative buildings and proposes a novel solution.
Biological variation of the cardiac index in patients with stable chronic heart failure: inert gas rebreathing compared with impedance cardiography

In chronic heart failure (CHF), changes in cardiac function define the course of the disease. The cardiac index (CI) is the most adequate indicator of cardiac function. Interpretation of serial CI measurements, however, requires knowledge of the biological variation of CI. Because measurements of CI can be confounded by the clinical situation or the method applied, biological variation might be subject to the same confounders.
School Choice in Urban America: Magnet Schools and the Pursuit of Equity. Critical Issues in Educational Leadership Series.

In recent years, school choice, equity, parental involvement, and desegregation have each headlined the national and state education reform agendas. This book offers a unique contribution to current policy debates by blending these often disconnected areas of research to provide a current and intensive analysis of the social and political context of magnet schools. Using empirical research, the authors examine the policies and practices that shape magnet schools while also exploring the experiences and opportunities of students (and their families) who attend these public schools of choice.
Naturally occurring mitochondrial-derived peptides are age-dependent regulators of apoptosis, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory markers

Mitochondria are key players in aging and in the pathogenesis of age-related diseases. Recent mitochondrial transcriptome analyses revealed the existence of multiple small mRNAs transcribed from mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Humanin (HN), a peptide encoded in the mtDNA 16S ribosomal RNA region, is a neuroprotective factor. An in silico search revealed six additional peptides in the same region of mtDNA as humanin; we named these peptides small humanin-like peptides (SHLPs). We identified the functional roles for these peptides and the potential mechanisms of action. The SHLPs differed in their ability to regulate cell viability in vitro. We focused on SHLP2 and SHLP3 because they shared similar protective effects with HN. Specifically, they significantly reduced apoptosis and the generation of reactive oxygen species, and improved mitochondrial metabolism in vitro. SHLP2 and SHLP3 also enhanced 3T3-L1 pre-adipocyte differentiation. Systemic hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp studies showed that intracerebrally infused SHLP2 increased glucose uptake and suppressed hepatic glucose production, suggesting that it functions as an insulin sensitizer both peripherally and centrally. Similar to HN, the levels of circulating SHLP2 were found to decrease with age. These results suggest that mitochondria play critical roles in metabolism and survival through the synthesis of mitochondrial peptides, and provide new insights into mitochondrial biology with relevance to aging and human biology.