Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Recruitment and motivation of semen providers in Sweden.

BACKGROUND Legislation in Sweden requires that semen providers are prepared to be identified to offspring (at maturity) should this be requested. This study presents views of semen providers in Sweden regarding factors associated with their recruitment and motivation. METHODS All semen providers (n = 30) in two clinics in different parts of Sweden participated in a questionnaire survey and both quantitative and qualitative data are reported. RESULTS While there were some important demographic differences between the two clinic populations, there was total agreement that the desire to assist infertile couples was the sole or main motivating factor in becoming a semen provider. Monetary reward was not reported by respondents to be an important motivator, although at least 50% of the providers in both clinics thought that payment should be made and reimbursement of expenses was reported as being important. Men responded to both advertising and personal experiences or contacts they had with infertile couples. The involvement and support of the semen provider's partner was regarded as important. CONCLUSIONS Semen providers can be recruited within a system that requires them to be prepared to be identified to offspring in the future. The characteristics of such providers vary, but are typified by a strong desire to assist infertile couples.
Use of metformin before and during assisted reproductive technology in non-obese young infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a prospective, randomized, double-blind, multi-centre study.

BACKGROUND To study the effect of metformin before and during assisted reproductive technology (ART) on the clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) in non-obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS A multi-centre, prospective, randomized, double-blind study was conducted in eight IVF clinics in four Nordic countries. We enrolled 150 PCOS women with a body mass index <28 kg/m(2), and treated them with 2000 mg/day metformin or identical placebo tablets for ≥ 12 weeks prior to and during long protocol IVF or ICSI and until the day of pregnancy testing. The primary outcome measure was CPR. Secondary outcome measures included spontaneous pregnancy rates during the pretreatment period, and the live birth rate (LBR). RESULTS Among IVF treated women (n = 112), biochemical pregnancy rates were identical in both groups (42.9%), and there were no significant differences in the metformin versus the placebo group in CPR [39.3 versus 30.4%; 95% confidence interval (CI): -8.6 to 26.5]. The LBR was 37.5 versus 28.6% (95% CI: -8.4 to 26.3). However, prior to IVF there were 15 (20.3%) spontaneous pregnancies in the metformin group and eight (10.7%) in the placebo group (95% CI: -1.9 to 21.1; P = 0.1047). According to intention to treat analyses (n = 149); significantly higher overall CPR were observed in the metformin versus placebo group (50.0 versus 33.3%; 95% CI: -1.1 to 32.3; P = 0.0391). LBR was also significantly higher with use of metformin versus placebo (48.6 versus 32.0; 95% CI: 1.1 to 32.2; P = 0.0383). No major unexpected safety issues or multiple births were reported. More gastrointestinal side effects occurred in the metformin group (41 versus 12%; 95% CI: 0.15 to 0.42; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Metformin treatment for 12 weeks before and during IVF or ICSI in non-obese women with PCOS significantly increases pregnancy and LBRs compared with placebo. However, there was no effect on the outcome of ART per se. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00159575.
A redundancy resolution method for an anthropomorphic dual-arm manipulator based on a musculoskeletal criterion

In order to make humans feeling comfortable when working with robots, it is necessary for robots to be as much as possible “human-like” in both their appearance and movements. In redundant manipulators, it is possible to use the additional degrees of freedom in order to make the robot motion more human-like, thus increasing the quality of the human-robot interaction. In this work, a redundancy resolution method to address this issue is presented. Such a method considers the human musculoskeletal system and a biomechanical model of the human upper limbs in order to define a strategy to solve the redundancy for a dual-arm anthropomorphic manipulator as a human would do, then making the robot able to both perform the prescribed task and to assume human-like postures.
Deleterious effects of obesity upon the hormonal and molecular mechanisms controlling spermatogenesis and male fertility

Abstract Worldwide obesity rates have nearly doubled since 1980 and currently over 10% of the population is obese. In 2008, over 1.4 billion adults aged 20 years and older had a body mass index or BMI above a healthy weight and of these, over 200 million men and nearly 300 million women were obese. While obesity can have many ramifications upon adult life, one growing area of concern is that of reproductive capacity. Obesity affects male infertility by influencing the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, thus causing detrimental effects upon spermatogenesis and subsequent fertility. In particular, evidence indicates that excess adipose tissue can alter the relative ratio of testosterone and oestrogen. Additional effects involve the homeostatic disruption of insulin, sex-hormone-binding-globulin, leptin and inhibin B, leading to diminished testosterone production and impairment to spermatogenesis. Aberrant spermatogenesis arising from obesity is associated with downstream changes in key semen parameters, defective sperm capacitation and binding, and deleterious effects on sperm chromatin structure. More recent investigations into trans-generational epigenetic inheritance further suggest that molecular changes in sperm that arise from obesity-related impaired spermatogenesis, such as modified sperm RNA levels, DNA methylation, protamination and histone acetylation, can impact upon the development of offspring. Here, we summarise our current understanding of how obesity exerts influence over spermatogenesis and subsequent fertility status, and make recommendations for future investigative research.
Use of remote sensing and seismotectonic parameters for seismic hazard analysis of Bangalore

Deterministic Seismic Hazard Analysis (DSHA)for the Bangalore, India has been carried out by considering the past earthquakes, assumed subsurface fault rupture lengths and point source synthetic ground motion model. The sources have been identified using satellite remote sensing images and seismotectonic atlas map of India and relevant field studies. Maximum Credible Earthquake (MCE) has been determined by considering the regional seismotectonic activity in about 350 km radius around Bangalore. The seismotectonic map has been prepared by considering the faults, lineaments, shear zones in the area and past moderate earthquakes of more than 470 events having the moment magnitude of 3.5 and above. In addition, 1300 number of earthquake tremors having moment magnitude of less than 3.5 has been considered for the study. Shortest distance from the Bangalore to the different sources is measured and then Peak Horizontal Acceleration (PHA) is calculated for the different sources and moment magnitude of events using regional attenuation relation for peninsular India. Based on Wells and Coppersmith (1994) relationship, subsurface fault rupture length of about 3.8\% of total length of the fault shown to be matching with past earthquake events in the area. To simulate synthetic ground motions, Boore (1983, 2003) SMSIM programs have been used and the PHA for the different locations is evaluated. From the above approaches, the PHA of 0.15 g was established. This value was obtained for a maximum credible earthquake having a moment magnitude of 5.1 for a source Mandya - Channapatna - Bangalore lineament. This particular source has been identified as a vulnerable source for Bangalore. From this study, it is very clear that Bangalore area can be described as seismically moderately active region. It is also recommended that southern part of Karnataka in particular Bangalore, Mandya and Kolar,need to be upgraded from current Indian Seismic Zone II to Seismic Zone III. Acceleration time history (ground motion) has been generated using synthetic earthquake model by considering the revised regional seismotectonic parameters. The rock level PHA map for Bangalore has been prepared and these maps are useful for the purpose of seismic microzonation, ground response analysis and design of important structures.
Intrarenal B Cell Cytokines Promote Transplant Fibrosis and Tubular Atrophy

Renal transplantation is the optimum treatment for end‐stage renal failure. B cells have been identified in chronic allograft damage (CAD) and associated with the development of tertiary lymphoid tissue within the human renal allograft. We performed renal transplantation in mice to model CAD and identified B cells forming tertiary lymphoid tissue with germinal centers. Intra‐allograft B220+ B cells comprised of IgMhigh CD23− B cells, IgMlo CD23+ B cells, and IgMlo CD23− B cells with elevated expression of CD86. Depletion of B cells with anti‐CD20 was associated with an improvement in CAD but only when administered after transplantation and not before. Isolated intra‐allograft B cells were cultured and shown to synthesize multiple cytokines, the most abundant of these were GRO‐α (CXCL1), RANTES (CCL5), IL‐6 and MCP‐1 (CCL2). Tubular loss was observed with T cell accumulation within the allograft and development of interstitial fibrosis, whilst type III collagen deposition was observed in areas of F4/80+ macrophages and PDGFR‐β+ and transgelin+ fibroblasts, all of which were reduced by B cell depletion. We have shown that intra‐allograft B cells are key mediators of CAD. B cells possibly contribute to CAD by intra‐allograft secretion of cytokines and chemokines.
Interference Management in WLAN Mesh Networks Using Free-Space Optical Links

Frequency channels are assigned in wireless local-area network (WLAN) mesh networks subject to strict cochannel interference constraints. Since Wi-Fi may be freely used by other networks, added interference may eventually invalidate the original frequency assignment, making full link activation impossible. In this paper, we address this problem by selectively installing supplementary free-space optical (FSO) links when radio-frequency (RF) link performance has deteriorated. To minimize cost, the number of FSO links that are needed should be as small as possible. We first formulate the channel assignment problem with the objective of maximizing the number of simultaneous link activations while satisfying cumulative RF interference constraints. A proof is given for the NP-completeness of the joint frequency assignment and FSO link placement problem. We then propose an efficient heuristic to solve the channel assignment problem using a genetic algorithm. Results are then presented for various mesh networks which show that the proposed algorithm has good results compared with the computed bounds. The presented results show that the use of FSO links permits WLAN mesh network deployment in interference-prone situations.
JHK Spectra of the z = 2.39 Radio Galaxy 53W002^1

We present low-resolution, near-IR JHK spectra of the weak z =2 . 39 radio galaxy 53W002, obtained with the OH-airglow Suppressor spectrograph (OHS) and Cooled Infrared Spectrograph and Camera for OHS (CISCO) on the Subaru Telescope. They cover rest-frame wavelengths of 3400–7200 u A, and the emission lines of [O II] λ3727, Hβ ,[ OIII] λλ4959, 5007, Hα ,[ NII] λλ6548, 6583 and [S II] λλ6716, 6731 were detected. Using the Hα/Hβ line ratio, we find an extinction of E(B − V )=0 . 14. The emission-line ratios are reproduced by a cloud of electron density ne =1 × 10 3−4 cm −3 with solar metallicity, ionized by an α = −0.7 power-law continuum with ionizing parameter U =1 ×10 −3 . In addition to these emission lines, we make the first spectroscopic confirmation of the Balmer discontinuity in a high-z radio galaxy. Together with rest-frame UV photometry from the literature, we show that at least 1/3 of the present stellar mass was formed in the current starburst. The stellar mass was estimated
Simultaneous orientation and positioning control of a microscopic object using robotic tweezers

Existing control techniques for optical trapping of cells or micro-objects can only perform either positioning control or separate control of orientation and position in a sequential manner. In this paper, we propose a robotic control technique to achieve simultaneous orientation and positioning control of a microscopic object using multiple laser-driven fingertips and robotic motorized stage control. Several optically trapped micro-particles are first utilized as the laser-driven fingertips to grasp a target micro-object. Simultaneous control of the laser-driven fingertips and the robotic motorized stage is then performed to achieve the control objective, in which the target object is oriented to a desired angular position by controlling the laser-driven fingertips, and at the same time, it is manipulated to follow a desired trajectory by maneuvering the robotic stage. Rigorous mathematical formulation and solution are developed for simultaneous orientation and positioning control of a micro-object using optical tweezers.
Brain–computer interfaces: a review

Abstract 'Can the brain understand the brain? Can it understand the mind? 'Such questions, here posed by neurophysiologist and 1981 Nobel laureate David Hubel, are under constant debate, but through the investigations of neurobiologists, psychologists, and physiologists, current knowledge and understanding has come a long way since brain exploration began hundreds of years BC. This article looks at how insights from some of the pioneers of neuroscience have begun to be integrated with today's technology, so bringing about the dawn of an era of brain and computer interfacing. One result has been brain–computer interfaces that can liberate the thoughts of those suffering from 'locked in' syndrome, by detection and interpretation of the brain's physiological signals. Also, manipulation of and support for the body's electrical and chemical signalling network has led to a variety of rehabilitation and therapeutic benefits, for example the possibility of giving sight to the blind. Brain–computer interfacing offers scope for augmentative channels for the brain, allowing it to become more directly connected with its environment, and extending the boundaries imposed by our own biological systems. Such interfaces will form a part of the future of rehabilitation engineering and contribute to improving the quality of life of many people.
Increased gray matter volume in the right angular and posterior parahippocampal gyri in loving-kindness meditators

Previous voxel-based morphometry (VBM) studies have revealed that meditation is associated with structural brain changes in regions underlying cognitive processes that are required for attention or mindfulness during meditation. This VBM study examined brain changes related to the practice of an emotion-oriented meditation: loving-kindness meditation (LKM). A 3 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner captured images of the brain structures of 25 men, 10 of whom had practiced LKM in the Theravada tradition for at least 5 years. Compared with novices, more gray matter volume was detected in the right angular and posterior parahippocampal gyri in LKM experts. The right angular gyrus has not been previously reported to have structural differences associated with meditation, and its specific role in mind and cognitive empathy theory suggests the uniqueness of this finding for LKM practice. These regions are important for affective regulation associated with empathic response, anxiety and mood. At the same time, gray matter volume in the left temporal lobe in the LKM experts appeared to be greater, an observation that has also been reported in previous MRI meditation studies on meditation styles other than LKM. Overall, the findings of our study suggest that experience in LKM may influence brain structures associated with affective regulation.
The active southwest margin of the Colorado Plateau:Uplift of mantle origin: Discussion and reply

During Cenozoic time, the Colorado Plateau was raised about 2 km above sea level. The most-recent and best-documented uplift of the plateau (;1 km) has been concentrated at its southwest margin between 6 and 1 Ma, whereas the eastern Colorado Plateau may have been at high elevations since Eocene time. To better understand the recent tectonic activity at the southwest margin of the Colorado Plateau, we compile detailed crustal thickness and density information from seismic and gravity data for a region that includes northwest Arizona and the southern tip of Nevada. This information is used to isolate the mantle contribution to uplift. We find that there is relatively low density mantle underlying the southernmargin of the plateau in northwest Arizona, which could result from about 60–80 km of thinning of the dense mantle lithosphere combined with about 100 &C of heating through a 100-km-thick mantle layer. The available estimates from earthquake-source seismology in or near the study area are compatible with this estimate of lithospheric thinning. We speculate that uplift may result from subduction-related thinning of the continental lithosphere.
Restless leg syndrome in pregnancy

Restless leg syndrome, more recently renamed Willis-Ekbom disease, is a condition that disrupts sleep and occurs more frequently in the pregnant population. We present a 39-year-old woman with restless legs syndrome in the third trimester and discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology and therapeutic options in the pregnant population while highlighting the challenges posed by the lack of safety data of approved drugs.
Effects of temporal association on recognition memory

The influence of temporal association on the representation and recognition of objects was investigated. Observers were shown sequences of novel faces in which the identity of the face changed as the head rotated. As a result, observers showed a tendency to treat the views as if they were of the same person. Additional experiments revealed that this was only true if the training sequences depicted head rotations rather than jumbled views; in other words, the sequence had to be spatially as well as temporally smooth. Results suggest that we are continuously associating views of objects to support later recognition, and that we do so not only on the basis of the physical similarity, but also the correlated appearance in time of the objects.
Endocytosis of Advanced Glycation End‐Products in Bovine Choriocapillaris Endothelial Cells

Objectives: Age‐related changes in Bruch's membrane (BM), situated between the retina and the choroid, include the accumulation of advanced glycation end‐products (AGEs) and other modified macromolecules. An important clearance mechanism for such molecules is endocytosis via macrophages and specialized endothelial cells. This study examined the endocytic clearance of AGEs in choriocapillaris endothelial (CCE) cells, which are strategically located beneath the BM. Materials and Methods: Bovine CCE cultures were incubated with radiolabeled or fluorescently labeled AGE‐modified bovine serum albumin (AGE‐BSA). Cells and tissues were examined for the expression of two AGE‐binding scavenger receptors, stabilin‐1 and −2, by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting, and with antibody inhibition studies.
Meeting Report: Seventh Annaberg EMBO Workshop ‘Membrane Traffic in the Secretory Pathway’, Goldegg, Austria, 9–14 January 2007

Secretory Pathways Laboratory, Cancer Research UK, London Research Institute, 44 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PX, UK Molecular Neuropathology Laboratory, Cancer Research UK, London Research Institute, Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PX, UK *Corresponding authors: Joelle Morvan, joelle.morvan@cancer.org. uk or Sara Salinas, sara.salinas@cancer.org. uk or Veronika E. Neubrand, veronika.neubrand@cancer.org. uk
The First Polarimetric Signatures of Infrared Jets in X-Ray Binaries

We present near-infrared linear spectropolarimetry of a sample of persistent X-ray binaries, Sco X-1, Cyg X-2, and GRS 1915+105. The slopes of the spectra are shallower than what is expected from a standard steady state accretion disk, and can be explained if the near-infrared flux contains a contribution from an optically thin jet. For the neutron star systems, Sco X-1 and Cyg X-2, the polarization levels at 2.4 μm are 1.3% ± 0.10% and 5.4% ± 0.7% , respectively, which is greater than the polarization level at 1.65 μm. This cannot be explained by interstellar polarization or electron scattering in the anisotropic environment of the accretion flow. We propose that the most likely explanation is that this is the polarimetric signature of synchrotron emission arising from close to the base of the jets in these systems. In the black hole system GRS 1915+105 the observed polarization, although high (5.0% ± 1.2% at 2.4 μm), may be consistent with interstellar polarization. For Sco X-1 the position angle of the radio jet on the sky is approximately perpendicular to the near-infrared position angle (electric vector), suggesting that the magnetic field is aligned with the jet. These observations may be a first step toward probing the ordering, alignment, and variability of the outflow magnetic field in a region closer to the central accreting object than is observed in the radio band.
Wireless Communication Networks for Gas Turbine Engine Testing

A new trend in the field of Aeronautical Engine Health Monitoring is the implementation of wireless sensor networks (WSNs) for data acquisition and condition monitoring to partially replace heavy and complex wiring harnesses, which limit the versatility of the monitoring process as well as creating practical deployment issues. Augmenting wired with wireless technologies will fuel opportunities for reduced cabling, faster sensor and network deployment, increased data acquisition flexibility, and reduced cable maintenance costs. However, embedding wireless technology into an aero engine (even in the ground testing application considered here) presents some very significant challenges, for example, a harsh environment with a complex RF transmission channel, high sensor density, and high data rate. In this paper we discuss the results of the Wireless Data Acquisition in Gas Turbine Engine Testing (WIDAGATE) project, which aimed to design and simulate such a network to estimate network performance and derisk the wireless techniques before the deployment.