Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Histo‐anatomical Studies on the Accessory Reproductive Glands of the Anatolian Souslik (Spermophilus xanthoprymnus) (Mammalia: Sciuridae)

In this study, the histo‐anatomy of the accessory reproductive glands of the Anatolian souslik (Spermophilus xanthoprymnus) is investigated, using 102 males of the vouchers which were captured from central Anatolia and eastern Mediterranean regions. Averages of measurements taken from each part of the accessory reproductive glands were as follows: length of vesicular gland [right: 3.96 (±0.48) mm; left: 3.70 (±0.55) mm]; prostate gland [length: 2.55 (±0.38) mm; width: 2.63 (±0.45) mm]; length of bulbourethral gland [right: 2.32 (±0.33) mm; left: 2.37 (±0.39) mm], and the length of the pars pelvina of the urethra was 12.31 (±0.76) mm. Histological sections showed that vesicular gland was composed of typically branched tubulo‐alveolar glands. As the fibrous connective tissue that was found among alveoles in the prostate was dense and relatively common, only few tubulo‐alveolar glands occurred. The bulbourethral gland (Cowper's gland) was a tubulo‐alveolar gland with a large and serrated lumen and septa between the alveoles consisted of dense fibro‐muscular fibres.
The risk of iatrogenic Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease through medical and surgical procedures

There have been more than 400 patients who contracted Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (CJD) via a medical procedure, that is, through the use of neurosurgical instruments, intracerebral electroencephalographic electrodes (EEG), human pituitary hormone, dura mater grafts, corneal transplant, and blood transfusion. The number of new patients with iatrogenic CJD has decreased; however, cases of variant CJD that was transmitted via blood transfusion have been reported since 2004. Clearly, iatrogenic transmission of CJD remains a serious problem. Recently, we investigated medical procedures (any surgery, neurosurgery, ophthalmic surgery, and blood transfusion) performed on patients registered by the CJD Surveillance Committee in Japan during a recent 9‐year period. In a case‐control study comprising 753 sporadic CJD (sCJD) patients and 210 control subjects, we found no evidence that prion disease was transmitted via the investigated medical procedures before onset of sCJD. In a review of previously reported case‐control studies, blood transfusion was never shown to be a significant risk factor for CJD; our study yielded the same result. Some case‐control studies reported that surgery was a significant risk factor for sCJD. However, when surgical procedures were categorized by type of surgery, the results were conflicting, which suggests that there is little possibility of prion transmission via surgical procedures. In our study, 4.5% of sCJD patients underwent surgery after onset of sCJD, including neurosurgeries in 0.8% and ophthalmic surgeries in 1.9%. The fact that some patients underwent surgery, including neurosurgery, even after the onset of sCJD indicates that we cannot exclude the possibility of prion transmission via medical procedures. We must remain vigilant against prion diseases to reduce the risk of iatrogenesis.
Relation between stimulation characteristics and clinical outcome in studies using electrical stimulation to improve motor control of the upper extremity in stroke.

OBJECTIVE Electrical stimulation can be applied in a variety of ways to the hemiparetic upper extremity following stroke. The aim of this review is to explore the relationship between characteristics of stimulation and the effect of electrical stimulation on the recovery of upper limb motor control following stroke. METHODS A systematic literature search was performed to identify clinical trials evaluating the effect of electrical stimulation on motor control. The reported outcomes were examined to identify a possible relationship between the reported effect and the following characteristics: duration of stimulation, method of stimulation, setting of stimulation parameters, target muscles and stage after stroke. RESULTS Nineteen clinical trials were included, and the results of 22 patient groups were evaluated. A positive effect of electrical stimulation was reported for 13 patient groups. Positive results were more common when electrical stimulation was triggered by voluntary movement rather than when non-triggered electrical stimulation was used. There was no relation between the effect of electrical stimulation and the other characteristics examined. CONCLUSION Triggered electrical stimulation may be more effective than non-triggered electrical stimulation in facilitating upper extremity motor recovery following stroke. It appears that the specific stimulus parameters may not be crucial in determining the effect of electrical stimulation.
Two‐Dimensional SnS2 Nanoplates with Extraordinary High Discharge Capacity for Lithium Ion Batteries

Two-dimensional (2D) layered nanostructures have received increasing interest due to their unique nanoscale phenomena and their potential applications ranging from electronics and energy to catalysis. Recent investigation has revealed that laterally confined layered nanocrystals (LCLN) have remarkably enhanced electrochemical properties compared to their bulk counterparts owing to nanoscale characteristics that include large surface areas, finite lateral sizes, and enhanced open-edge morphologies. Among the variety of layered materials that have been described, tin sulfides are of particular interest because of their unique structural properties. SnS2 has a layered CdI2-type structure, composed of tin atoms sandwiched between two layers of hexagonally disposed closepacked sulfur atoms. The 2D layered characteristics of this substance are revealed in alkali metal intercalation phenomena, and by investigating anisotropy of properties such as electric and photoelectric conductivity. Owing to their large theoretical capacities for battery applications, bulk or micron sized tin-based materials have been extensively studied as possible alternatives for commercially available carbon electrodes. However, the main drawback of this system has been stemming from the large volume changes and accompanying sharp decrease in capacity that occur during electrochemical cycles. Aifantis et al. have reported that active sites with spherical and smaller volume fraction could improve electrochemical properties of anode materials from the view point of fracture mechanics. Other researchers also have reported that nanoscale tin sulfide-based materials would lead to an improvement in the cycling stability of these systems. Especially, layered SnS2 nanoplates with swelling tolerant hosting spaces and enhanced guest accessibility would provide enhanced diffusion for Li ion, and lead to the formation of Li-Sn alloy during the cycle, and improve the
Mirror Neuron System Differentially Activated by Facial Expressions and Social Hand Gestures: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study

Facial expressions and hand gestures are utilized in nonverbal communication to convey socially relevant information. One key process that mediates nonverbal communication is simulation. The mirror neuron system (MNS), which maps observed actions onto the motor representations used when producing those actions, likely plays a role in simulation. Previous neuroimaging experiments have identified a putative human MNS that includes the inferior parietal lobule (IPL) and the frontal operculum. Although understanding nonverbal communication presumably involves the MNS, it is unknown whether these two forms of nonverbal social communication have distinct representations within that system. Here we report the results of a functional magnetic resonance imaging experiment in which participants viewed, imitated, and produced facial expressions and social hand gestures. The observation and execution of facial expressions and social hand gestures activated the MNS, but the magnitude of response differed. Activation in the IPL was greater for social hand gestures, whereas activation in the frontal operculum was greater for viewing facial expressions. The locations of neural activity evoked by viewing facial expressions and social hand gestures in the frontal operculum were significantly different. These data argue that there are distinct representations of different types of social nonverbal communication in the MNS.
Exposure to Animals and Selected Risk Factors Among Canadian Farm Residents with Hodgkin’s Disease, Multiple Myeloma, or Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Exposures to farm animals has been associated with certain rare cancers. Simultaneously, using the same methodology and control group, we conducted a six-province incident, population-based study of Hodgkin’s disease (HD), multiple myeloma (MM), and soft tissue sarcoma (STS). Farm residence or work was reported by 38% (n = 119) of HD, 45% (n = 178) of MM, 43% (n = 156) of STS cases and 45% (n = 673) of controls. We conducted conditional logistic regression analyses and report odds ratios (ORadj) and 95% confidence intervals. After adjustment for covariates, exposure to farm animals had minimal effect on risk. The independent risk factors after adjustment for covariates were a family history of cancer (MM, STS), occupational uranium exposure (HD), professional driving (MM), and personal previous cancer (MM) or shingles (HD, MM).
Functionally graded materials : design, processing and applications

In a Functionally Graded Material (FGM), the composition and structure gradually change over volume, resulting in corresponding changes in the properties of the material. By applying the many possibilities inherent in the FGM concept, it is anticipated that materials will be improved and new functions for them created. A comprehensive description of design, modeling, processing, and evaluation of FGMs as well as their applications is covered in this book. The contents include: lessons from nature; graded microstructures; modeling and design; characterization of properties; processing and fabrication; applications; and summary and outlook.
Motivation and Data Quality in a Citizen Science Game: A Design Science Evaluation

Citizen science is a form of social computation where members of the public are recruited to contribute to scientific investigations. Citizen-science projects often use web-based systems to support collaborative scientific activities. However, finding ways to attract participants and ensure the accuracy of the data they produce are key issues in making such systems successful. In this paper we describe the design and preliminary evaluation of a simple game that addresses these two concerns for the task of species identification.
Transcriptional regulation in the yeast GAL gene family: a complex genetic network

Regulation of the GAL structural genes in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is implemented by the products of GAL‐specific (GAL4, GAL80, GAL3) and general (GAL11, SWI1, 2, 3, SNF5, 6, numerous glucose repression) genes. Recent work has 1) yielded significant new insights on the DNA binding and transcription activation/Gal80 protein binding functions of the Gal4 activator protein, 2) described the characterization of purified Gal4 protein‐Gal80 protein complexes, 3) deconvoluted the multiple and complex glucose repression pathways acting on GAL genes, 4) suggested a new mechanism for the Gal3 protein‐mediated induction of GAL structural gene expression, 5) introduced Gall protein, a structural gene product, into the regulation scheme, and 6) extended our already substantial understanding of GAL regulatory gene control. The mechanisms which control structural and regulatory gene expression in the GAL family are compared and GAL structural/regulatory gene chromatin structure is discussed. —Lohr, D. , Venkov, P., Zlatanova, J. Transcriptional regulation in the yeast GAL gene family: a complex genetic network. FASEB J. 9, 777‐787 (1995)
Vertebral Column Resection for the Treatment of Rigid Coronal Decompensation

Study Design. A retrospective study of patients with rigid coronal decompensation. Objectives. To determine if patients with rigid coronal decompensation can be safely and successfully treated by anterior‐posterior vertebral column resection, spinal shortening, posterior instrumentation, and fusion to correct their deformities. Summary of Background Data. Previous investigators have described reconstructive techniques used to treat patients with sagittal and coronal spine deformities. These techniques include osteotomy and anterior or posterior fusion. Although a number of these studies consider the problems associated with failed back syndrome (flatback, coronal and axial imbalance, pseudarthrosis), they have not satisfactorily addressed the management of rigid coronal decompensation. The patient population of the current study, on average, presented with more severe, fixed deformities than those detailed in the literature, and required more extensive surgery than previously described. Methods. Twenty‐four patients (average age, 27 years) with rigid coronal decompensation underwent anterior‐posterior vertebral column resection, spinal shortening, posterior instrumentation, and fusion. Degree of curvature was measured in the coronal and sagittal planes, and decompensation was assessed. Follow‐up was from 2 to 10 years. Results. Coronal and sagittal decompensation were corrected an average of 82% and 87%, respectively; T1 tilt and pelvic obliquity were improved by 65% and 53%, respectively; and scoliosis was improved by 52%. Complications occurred in 14 patients, but at follow‐up all patients rated their results as either good or excellent. Conclusions. Patients with fixed, decompensated spinal deformity may be safely corrected by vertebrectomy, decancellation, spinal shortening, instrumentation, and fusion. Complications are transient, and the benefits in this select group of patients outweigh the risks.
Technology generations handling complex user interfaces

• A submitted manuscript is the version of the article upon submission and before peer-review. There can be important differences between the submitted version and the official published version of record. People interested in the research are advised to contact the author for the final version of the publication, or visit the DOI to the publisher's website. • The final author version and the galley proof are versions of the publication after peer review. • The final published version features the final layout of the paper including the volume, issue and page numbers.
Quantum sensing

"Quantum sensing"describes the use of a quantum system, quantum properties or quantum phenomena to perform a measurement of a physical quantity. Historical examples of quantum sensors include magnetometers based on superconducting quantum interference devices and atomic vapors, or atomic clocks. More recently, quantum sensing has become a distinct and rapidly growing branch of research within the area of quantum science and technology, with the most common platforms being spin qubits, trapped ions and flux qubits. The field is expected to provide new opportunities - especially with regard to high sensitivity and precision - in applied physics and other areas of science. In this review, we provide an introduction to the basic principles, methods and concepts of quantum sensing from the viewpoint of the interested experimentalist.
Changes in Olsen Phosphorus Concentration and Its Response to Phosphorus Balance in Black Soils under Different Long-Term Fertilization Patterns

The Olsen phosphorus (P) concentration of a soil is a key index that can be used to evaluate the P supply capacity of the soil and to estimate the optimal P fertilization rate. A study of the relationship between the soil Olsen P concentration and the P balance (P input minus P output) and their variations among different fertilization patterns will help to provide useful information for proper management of P fertilization. In this paper, the two investigated long-term experiments were established on black soils in the northeast region of China. Six fertilization treatments were selected: (1) unfertilized (CK); (2) nitrogen only (N); (3) nitrogen and potassium (NK); (4) nitrogen and phosphorus (NP); (5) nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK); and (6) nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and manure (NPKM). The results showed that the average Olsen P concentrations in the black soils at Gongzhuling and Harbin (16- and 31-year study periods, respectively), decreased by 0.49 and 0.56 mg kg-1 a-1, respectively, without P addition and increased by 3.17 and 1.78 mg kg-1 a-1, respectively, with P fertilization. The changes in soil Olsen P concentrations were significantly (P<0.05) correlated with the P balances at both sites except for the NP and NPK treatments at Gongzhuling. Under an average deficit of 100 kg ha-1 P, the soil Olsen P concentration at both sites decreased by 1.36~3.35 mg kg-1 in the treatments without P addition and increased by 4.80~16.04 mg kg-1 in the treatments with 100 kg ha-1 of P accumulation. In addition, the changes in Olsen P concentrations in the soil with 100 kg ha-1of P balance were significantly correlated with the P activation coefficient (PAC, percentage of Olsen P to total P, r=0.99, P<0.01) and soil organic matter content (r=0.91, P<0.01). A low pH was related to large changes of Olsen P by 1 kg ha-1 of P balance. These results indicated that soil organic matter and pH have important effects on the change in soil Olsen P by 1 kg ha-1 of P balance.
Altered localization and cytoplasmic domain-binding properties of tyrosine-phosphorylated beta 1 integrin

We describe a novel approach to study tyrosine-phosphorylated (PY) integrins in cells transformed by virally encoded tyrosine kinases. We have synthesized a peptide (PY beta 1 peptide) that represents a portion of the cytoplasmic domain of the beta 1 integrin subunit and is phosphorylated on the tyrosine residue known to be the target of oncogenic tyrosine kinases. Antibodies prepared against the PY beta 1 peptide, after removal of cross-reacting antibodies by absorption and affinity purification, recognized the PY beta 1 peptide and the tyrosine-phosphorylated form of the intact beta 1 subunit, but did not bind the nonphosphorylated beta 1 peptide, the nonphosphorylated beta 1 subunit or other unrelated tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins. The anti- PY beta 1 antibodies labeled the podosomes of Rous sarcoma virus- transformed fibroblasts, but did not detectably stain nontransformed fibroblasts. The localization of the tyrosine phosphorylated beta 1 subunits appeared distinct from that of the beta 1 subunit. Adhesion plaques were stained by the anti-beta 1 subunit antibodies in Rous sarcoma virus-transformed fibroblasts plated on fibronectin, whereas neither podosomes nor adhesion plaques were labeled on vitronectin or on uncoated plates. Anti-phosphotyrosine antibodies labeled podosomes, adhesion plaques and cell-cell boundaries regardless of the substratum. One of the SH2 domains of the p85 subunit of phosphatidylinositol-3- kinase bound to the PY beta 1 peptide, but not to the non- phosphorylated beta 1 cytoplasmic peptide. Other SH2 domains did not bind to the PY beta 1 peptide. These results show that the phosphorylated form of the beta 1 integrin subunit is detected in a different subcellular localization than the nonphosphorylated form and suggest that the phosphorylation on tyrosine of the beta 1 subunit cytoplasmic domain may affect cellular signaling pathways.
Effect of Free Maternal Health Care Program on Health-seeking Behaviour of Women during Pregnancy, Intra-partum and Postpartum Periods in Cross River State of Nigeria: A Mixed Method Study

BACKGROUND: Increasing the percentage of maternal health service utilization in health facilities, through cost-removal policy is important in reducing maternal deaths. The Cross River State Government of Nigeria introduced a cost-removal policy in 2009, under the umbrella of “PROJECT HOPE” where free maternal health services are provided. Since its inception, there has been no formal evaluation of its effectiveness. AIM: This study aims to evaluate the effect of the free maternal health care program on the health care-seeking behaviours of pregnant women in Cross River State, Nigeria. METHOD: A mixed method approach (quantitative and qualitative methods) was used to describe the effect of free maternal health care intervention. The quantitative component uses data on maternal health service utilisation obtained from PROJECT HOPE and Nigeria Demographic Health Survey. The qualitative part uses Focus Group Discussions to examine women’s perception of the program. RESULTS: Results suggest weak evidence of change in maternal health care service utilization, as 95% Confidence Intervals overlap even though point estimate suggest increase in utilization. Results of quantitative data show increase in the percentage of women accessing maternal health services. This increase is greater than the population growth rate of Cross River State which is 2.9%, from 2010 to 2013. This increase is likely to be a genuine increase in maternal health care utilisation. Qualitative results showed that women perceived that there have been increases in the number of women who utilize Antenatal care, delivery and Post Partum Care at health facilities, following the removal of direct cost of maternal health services. There is urban and rural differences as well as between communities closer to health facility and those further off. Perceived barriers to utilization are indirect cost of service utilization, poor information dissemination especially in rural areas, perceived poor quality of care at facilities including drug and consumables stock-outs, geographical barriers, inadequate health work force, and poor attitude of skilled health workers and lack of trust in the health system. CONCLUSION: Reasons for Maternal health care utilisation even under a cost-removal policy is multi-factorial. Therefore, in addition to fee-removal, the government must be committed to addressing other deterrents so as to significantly increase maternal health care service utilisation.
Gender differences in alcohol affection on an individual.

UNLABELLED It is a well-known fact that after drinking the same amount of alcohol, women show more signs of the effects of alcohol than men of the same weight. It seems that the main factors responsible for sex differences in alcohol metabolism and influence are the relatively lower amount of body water related to body fat in women than men and lower gastric ADH activity in women, both of which enable women to reach higher BAC after drinking equivalent amounts of alcohol with men. On the other hand, first-pass metabolism of alcohol during passing through the liver is more rapid in women, probably due to bigger liver mass in women than in men. It is proven that alcohol and sex hormones have bilateral influence on each other. Women with more rapid alcohol elimination ability show higher levels of sex hormones in blood than the rest. It seems that the specific body constitution of the female organism as well as the unique combination of their sex hormones is responsible for the gender differences in alcohol influence. KEYWORDS alcohol metabolism - gender differences - gastric ADH - blood alcohol concentration.