Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Coding of images of materials by macaque inferior temporal cortical neurons

Objects vary not only in their shape but also in the material from which they are made. Knowledge of the material properties can contribute to object recognition as well as indicate properties of the object (e.g. ripeness of a fruit). We examined the coding of images of materials by single neurons of the macaque inferior temporal (IT) cortex, an area known to support object recognition and categorization. Stimuli were images of 12 real materials that were illuminated from three different directions. The material textures appeared within five different outline shapes. The majority of responsive IT neurons responded selectively to the material textures, and this selectivity was largely independent of their shape selectivity. The responses of the large majority of neurons were strongly affected by illumination direction. Despite the generally weak illumination‐direction invariance of the responses, Support Vector Machines that used the neural responses as input were able to classify the materials across illumination direction better than by chance. A comparison between the responses to the original images and those to images with a random spectral phase, but matched power spectrum, indicated that the material texture selectivity did not depend merely on differences in the power spectrum but required phase information.
Small-angle scattering in materials science - a short review of applications in alloys, ceramics and composite materials

Since the early days of small-angle scattering (SAS), this technique has been used to characterize the structure of solid materials on the nanometer scale. Some recent developments in this field will be reviewed, focusing on alloys, ceramics and (nano-) composite materials. The large field of SAS from polymeric systems will not be covered. Classical applications of SAS are the characterization of pores or precipitates in alloys, for instance. In more recent years, a range of new applications for X-ray SAS has emerged owing to the availability of more and more brilliant (synchrotron) X-ray sources. Examples include grazing-incidence SAXS, used increasingly to characterize nano-structured surfaces on semiconductors and also on other materials. The use of a narrow X-ray beam also allows the investigation of extremely inhomogeneous or hierarchically structured materials by scanning SAXS. In this approach, the specimen is moved step by step across an X-ray beam with a diameter of a few micrometers (or even less), collecting a SAXS pattern at each step. In neutron SAS, the systematic use of magnetic cross-sections has brought considerable progress in the study of magnetic nano-particles or nano-composites. Single crystalline or textured materials are being studied under several orientations with respect to the primary beam to yield three-dimensional (neutron or X-ray) SAS patterns. In many cases, SAS is combined with other techniques, such as electron microscopy, spectroscopy or mechanical characterization, the most elegant being an in-situ combination. A number of recent examples for the above-mentioned approaches will be given.
Immunization with Bacillus Spores Expressing Toxin A Peptide Repeats Protects against Infection with Clostridium difficile Strains Producing Toxins A and B

ABSTRACT Clostridium difficile is a leading cause of nosocomial infection in the developed world. Two toxins, A and B, produced by most strains of C. difficile are implicated as virulence factors, yet only recently has the requirement of these for infection been investigated by genetic manipulation. Current vaccine strategies are focused mostly on parenteral delivery of toxoids. In this work, we have used bacterial spores (Bacillus subtilis) as a delivery vehicle to evaluate the carboxy-terminal repeat domains of toxins A and B as protective antigens. Our findings are important and show that oral immunization of the repeat domain of toxin A is sufficient to confer protection in a hamster model of infection designed to closely mimic the human course of infection. Importantly, neutralizing antibodies to the toxin A repeat domain were shown to be cross-reactive with the analogous domain of toxin B and, being of high avidity, provided protection against challenge with a C. difficile strain producing toxins A and B (A+B+). Thus, although many strains produce both toxins, antibodies to only toxin A can mediate protection. Animals vaccinated with recombinant spores were fully able to survive reinfection, a property that is particularly important for a disease with which patients are prone to relapse. We show that mucosal immunization, not parenteral delivery, is required to generate secretory IgA and that production of these neutralizing polymeric antibodies correlates with protection. This work demonstrates that an effective vaccine against C. difficile can be designed around two attributes, mucosal delivery and the repeat domain of toxin A.
Resolution of disorientation and amnesia during post-traumatic amnesia

OBJECTIVES Despite the growing number of instruments for the prospective measurement of post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) after traumatic brain injury, fundamental issues about the natural history of its resolution and methods of examination remain unresolved. The aims of the present study were to: (1) examine the sequence of resolution of disorientation and amnesia, and (2) determine if the method of measuring the memory component affected the duration of PTA. METHODS The sample comprised 31 severely injured patients admitted to a brain injury rehabilitation unit who were examined daily until they emerged from PTA. They were administered a composite PTA scale, covering orientation and memory items from standard PTA scales. Patients were consecutively allocated to one of two groups according to the method of measuring the memory component. Each group was administered identical materials with a different procedure. RESULTS The most common sequence for resolution of disorientation in both groups was person, followed by place, then time. Overall, amnesia resolved before disorientation in 94% of cases. Correlation coefficients between return of components of orientation and memory were all highly significant, ranging from r=0.81 to 0.93. Significant variability occurred in the number of days to emerge from PTA according to the scale used. There was evidence that the method of measuring memory influenced the patient's capacity to consistently sustain criterion scores on the scale. CONCLUSIONS These results are contrary to findings in mildly injured patients, in whom orientation usually returns before memory. They also demonstrate that the duration of PTA will be dictated by the method used. These findings raise validity issues with respect to the prospective measurement of PTA, and in particular determining when an individual patient has emerged from PTA, which require further investigation.
High temperature cross-weld characterisation of steel weldments by microtensile testing

Abstract Study of local material properties and damage mechanisms are undertaken in order to characterise weldments that show significant variation of properties across weldments. One of the methods to characterise the local variation of properties is microtensile (MT) testing of specimens machined out of specific narrow zones of weldments. The literature data, though limited, on microtensile specimen testing are reported at their low temperature behaviour. On the other hand, systematic study of crossweld local material properties at high service temperatures have not yet been reported. In the present study, MT tests are conducted across similar welds of P22 and P91 steels at 550 and 600°C, respectively. In order to study deformation mechanisms and the role of surface condition on properties, specimens with different surface conditions (i.e. machined, polished and electropolished surfaces) are tested. Two different loading rates of 0.2mm/min and 0.5mm/min are used to study the effect of loading rate on deformation and mechanical properties. Variations of material properties yield strength (Rp0.2) and ultimate tensile strength (Rm), for the weldments are presented as a function of surface conditions of specimens and loading speeds. Higher loading rates yield higher values of Rp0.2 and Rm, and specimens with machined and polished surfaces show consistent and higher values of Rp0.2 and Rm compared to specimens with an electropolished surface finish. Deformation behaviour is studied on the side surfaces of tested microtensile specimens using an SEM. Deformation is correlated to microstructural constituent that is observed on specimen side surfaces. The metallographic information is used to interpret the variation of mechanical properties determined in tension at high temperatures. The MT data are compared with standard tensile data obtained on specimens with simulated microstructures. The prospects of using MT tests for characterising the material at high temperatures and feasibility of use of data for assessment of components under service loading conditions are reported.
Beyond technology acceptance to effective technology use: a parsimonious and actionable model

OBJECTIVE To develop and test a parsimonious and actionable model of effective technology use (ETU). DESIGN Cross-sectional survey of primary care providers (n = 53) in a large integrated health care organization that recently implemented new medication reconciliation technology. METHODS Surveys assessed 5 technology-related perceptions (compatibility with work values, implementation climate, compatibility with work processes, perceived usefulness, and ease of use) and 1 outcome variable, ETU. ETU was measured as both consistency and quality of technology use. RESULTS Compatibility with work values and implementation climate were found to have differential effects on consistency and quality of use. When implementation climate was strong, consistency of technology use was high. However, quality of technology use was high only when implementation climate was strong and values compatibility was high. This is an important finding and highlights the importance of users' workplace values as a key determinant of quality of use. CONCLUSIONS To extend our effectiveness in implementing new health care information technology, we need parsimonious models that include actionable determinants of ETU and account for the differential effects of these determinants on the multiple dimensions of ETU.
Release of Vasopressin within the Rat Paraventricular Nucleus in Response to Emotional Stress: A Novel Mechanism of Regulating Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Secretion?

The effects of emotional stressors on the release of arginine vasopressin (AVP) and oxytocin (OXT) within the rat hypothalamus and the origin and physiological significance of AVP released within the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) were investigated. First, adult male Wistar rats with a microdialysis probe aimed at the PVN or the supraoptic nucleus were exposed to either a dominant male rat (social defeat) or a novel cage. Release of AVP within the PVN was significantly increased in response to social defeat but not to novelty. In contrast to an activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) system, neither stressor stimulated the hypothalamic–neurohypophysial system (unchanged plasma AVP and OXT and unchanged release within the supraoptic nucleus [AVP] and the PVN [OXT]). Next, we demonstrated by simultaneous microdialysis of the suprachiasmatic nucleus and the PVN that AVP measured in PVN dialysates during social defeat was probably of intranuclear origin. Finally, a mixture of a V1 AVP and the α-helical corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) receptor antagonists administered via inverse microdialysis into the PVN caused a significant increase in the plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) concentration compared with vehicle-treated controls both under basal conditions and during social defeat, indicating inhibitory effects of intra-PVN-released AVP and/or CRH on HPA system activity. The antagonists failed to affect anxiety-related behavior of the animals as assessed with the elevated plus-maze. Taken together, our results show for the first time that AVP is released within the PVN in response to an emotional stressor. We hypothesize that this intranuclear release provides a negative tonus on ACTH secretion.
Population dynamics of Physa acuta (Mollusca: Pulmonata) in the lakes of Rif mountains (Northern Morocco, Ouergha watershed).

The present study is first of its kind that deals with freshwater gastropod populations at Annasser Lakes, Rif mountains, Northern Morocco from eight selected sampling stations. Gastropods were collected from September 2002 December 2003. A total of eleven species were recorded among which Physa acuta was the species most represented of aquatic snails in the studied areas. Gastropod population was higher in spring and summer, while low population was evident in winter. The present study on population dynamics of P. acuta in Annasser pond shows that the life cycle of the species followed a seasonal pattern. This cycle was mainly governed by the duration of submersion at the habitats studied. Indeed, the life cycle of the species is permanent ponds was bivoltine with two annual generations per year and two breeding periods in spring and autumn seasons. In the temporary ponds, the species was univoltine with just generation per year but had two annual breeding periods.
Polymorphism of a high molecular weight schizont antigen of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum

Intraspecies antigenic diversity in the blood stages of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum was investigated using a collection of murine monoclonal antibodies and clones of the parasite. The results were as follows: (a) The schizont and merozoite stages of the parasite express on their surface clonally restricted antigens detectable by strain-specific antibodies in indirect immunofluorescence tests. (b) These restricted antigens are phenotypically stable characteristics of clones grown in vitro. (c) The molecules carrying the specific antigens were isolated by immunoprecipitation and were found to be parasite proteins ranging in size from Mr 190,000 to 200,000 between clones. (d) Comparative immunoprecipitation and peptide mapping of these molecules showed that each parasite clone expresses a protein that is antigenically and structurally distinct from the equivalent products of several other clones. (e) The different clonal products are, however, immunologically interrelated, since they possess determinants in common with all tested isolates of the parasite. (f) These polymorphic molecules are closely related to a previously described schizont protein of P. falciparum that is posttranslationally cleaved into fragments located on the merozoite surface. These findings show the existence of a family of related polymorphic schizont antigens (PSA) of P. falciparum, whose expression is clonally restricted, and indicate that these proteins have regions of constant and variable antigenicity. We propose that a system of immunological classification of the parasite can be developed based on the polymorphism of these proteins.
Electrolyte and Fluid Transporters of Pancreatic Ductal Cells Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator

The human exocrine pancreas consists of 2 main cell types: acinar and ductal cells. These exocrine cells interact closely to contribute to the secretion of pancreatic juice. The most important ion in terms of the pancreatic ductal secretion is HCO3 . In fact, duct cells produce an alkaline fluid that may contain up to 140 mM NaHCO3 , which is essential for normal digestion. This article provides an overview of the basics of pancreatic ductal physiology and pathophysiology. In the first part of the article, we discuss the ductal electrolyte and fluid transporters and their regulation. The central role of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is highlighted, which is much more than just a Cl channel. We also review the role of pancreatic ducts in severe debilitating diseases such as cystic fibrosis (caused by various genetic defects of cftr), pancreatitis, and diabetes mellitus. Stimulation of ductal secretion in cystic fibrosis and pancreatitis may have beneficial effects in their treatment.
Susceptibility to liver fibrosis in mice expressing a connective tissue growth factor transgene in hepatocytes

Connective tissue growth factor (CCN2) is a matricellular protein that is up‐regulated in many fibrotic disorders and coexpressed with transforming growth factor β. CCN2 promotes fibrogenesis and survival in activated hepatic stellate cells, and injured or fibrotic liver contains up‐regulated levels of CCN2 that are produced by a variety of different cell types, including hepatocytes. To investigate CCN2 action in vivo, transgenic FVB mice were created in which the human CCN2 gene was placed under the control of the albumin enhancer promoter to elevate hepatocyte CCN2 levels. Production of human CCN2 (hCCN2) messenger RNA and elevated CCN2 protein levels was demonstrated in transgenic livers, whereas levels of endogenous mouse CCN2 were comparable between transgenic and wild‐type mice. Liver histology and liver function tests were unaffected in transgenic animals. However, after chronic administration of CCl4, α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA)–expressing cells and collagen deposition were increased as a function of the dosage of the hCCN2 transgene (hccn2+/+ > hccn2+/− > hccn2−/−). Moreover, CCl4‐induced serum hyaluronic acid, hepatic tissue levels of α‐SMA or acid‐soluble collagen, and messenger RNA expression of α‐SMA, collagen α1 (I), matrix metalloprotease‐2, or tissue inhibitor of metalloprotease‐1 were greater in transgenic mice than in wild‐type mice. Transgenic mice also exhibited enhanced hepatic deposition of collagen 2 weeks after bile duct ligation. Conclusion: Production of elevated CCN2 levels in hepatocytes of transgenic mice in vivo does not cause hepatic injury or fibrosis per se but renders the livers more susceptible to the injurious actions of other fibrotic stimuli. These studies support a central role of CCN2 in hepatic fibrosis and demonstrate a role of the microenvironment in regulating the profibrotic action of CCN2. (HEPATOLOGY 2009.)
International multi‐centre evaluation of a dipstick assay for human leptospirosis

Summary A dipstick assay for the detection of Leptospira‐specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies in human sera was evaluated in 27 laboratories in 23 countries. 873 serum samples from 711 patients including 329 laboratory‐confirmed leptospirosis case patients, 239 noncase patients and 69 patients with viral infections causing heamorrhagic fever were tested. Relative to the results of the reference leptospirosis test, the sensitivity of the dipstick assay was 84.5% for serum samples collected during the first 10 days of the disease and 92.1% for serum samples collected 10–30 days after the onset of disease. The specificity was 87.5% and 94.4%, respectively. Similar to viral haemorrhagic fevers, leptospirosis may cause bleeding. A small number of serum samples from patients with haemorrhagic viral infections gave a weak (1 +) stain. All other samples were negative. In conclusion, the dipstick assay is sensitive and specific and reacts well with serum samples from patients infected with a range of leptospiral strains. It is also easy to use and does not require special equipment or refrigeration. Therefore the assay is ideal for use in developing countries and rural settings.
Predictability of intraocular lens calculation and early refractive status: the Infant Aphakia Treatment Study.

OBJECTIVE To report the accuracy of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculations and the early refractive status in pseudophakic eyes of infants in the Infant Aphakia Treatment Study. METHODS Eyes randomized to receive primary IOL implantation were targeted for a postoperative refraction of +8.0 diopters (D) for infants 28 to 48 days old at surgery and +6.0 D for those 49 days or older to younger than 7 months at surgery using the Holladay 1 formula. Refraction 1 month after surgery was converted to spherical equivalent, and prediction error (PE; defined as the calculated refraction minus the actual refraction) and absolute PE were calculated. Baseline eye and surgery characteristics and A-scan quality were analyzed to compare their effect on PE. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Prediction error. RESULTS Fifty-six eyes underwent primary IOL implantation; 7 were excluded for lack of postoperative refraction (n = 5) or incorrect technique in refraction (n = 1) or biometry (n = 1). Overall mean (SD) absolute PE was 1.8 (1.3) D and mean (SD) PE was +1.0 (2.0) D. Absolute PE was less than 1 D in 41% of eyes but greater than 2 D in 41% of eyes. Mean IOL power implanted was 29.9 D (range, 11.5-40.0 D); most eyes (88%) implanted with an IOL of 30.0 D or greater had less postoperative hyperopia than planned. Multivariate analysis revealed that only short axial length (<18 mm) was significant for higher PE. CONCLUSIONS Short axial length correlates with higher PE after IOL placement in infants. Less hyperopia than anticipated occurs with axial lengths of less than 18 mm or high-power IOLs. Application to Clinical Practice Quality A-scans are essential and higher PE is common, with a tendency for less hyperopia than expected. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00212134.
Oligodeoxynucleotides Can Transiently Up- and Downregulate CHS Gene Expression in Flax by Changing DNA Methylation in a Sequence-Specific Manner

Chalcone synthase (CHS) has been recognized as an essential enzyme in the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway. Apart from the leading role in the production of phenolic compounds with many valuable biological activities beneficial to biomedicine, CHS is well appreciated in science. Genetic engineering greatly facilitates expanding knowledge on the function and genetics of CHS in plants. The CHS gene is one of the most intensively studied genes in flax. In our study, we investigated engineering of the CHS gene through genetic and epigenetic approaches. Considering the numerous restrictions concerning the application of genetically modified (GM) crops, the main purpose of this research was optimization of the plant's modulation via epigenetics. In our study, plants modified through two methods were compared: a widely popular agrotransformation and a relatively recent oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) strategy. It was recently highlighted that the ODN technique can be a rapid and time-serving antecedent in quick analysis of gene function before taking vector-mediated transformation. In order to understand the molecular background of epigenetic variation in more detail and evaluate the use of ODNs as a tool for predictable and stable gene engineering, we concentrated on the integration of gene expression and gene-body methylation. The treatment of flax with a series of short oligonucleotides homologous to a different part of CHS gene isoforms revealed that those directed to regulatory gene regions (5′- and 3′-UTR) activated gene expression, directed to non-coding region (introns) caused gen activity reduction, while those homologous to a coding region may have a variable influence on its activity. Gene expression changes were accompanied by changes in its methylation status. However, only certain (CCGG) motifs along the gene sequence were affected. The analyzed DNA motifs of the CHS flax gene are more accessible for methylation when located within a CpG island. The methylation motifs also led to rearrangement of the nucleosome location. The obtained results suggest high specificity of ODN action and establish a potential valuable alternative for improvement of crops.