Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Expression analysis of endogenous menin, the product of the multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 gene, in cell lines and human tissues

We have investigated the endogenous expression of menin, a protein encoded by the gene mutated in multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1). Western blot analysis showed strong expression of menin as a 68 kDa protein in all of 7 human and primate cell lines tested. In a panel of 12 fetal human tissue extracts, 68 kDa menin was readily detected in brain cortex, kidney, pituitary, testis and thymus and weakly detected in thyroid. Reproducible bands other than 68 kDa were observed in adrenal and heart, whereas menin was undetectable in liver, lung, pancreas and skin. Analysis of synchronized HeLa cells revealed no variation in the amount or size of menin throughout the cell cycle. Protein expression was compared between lymphoblastoid cell lines from healthy controls and MEN1 patients carrying nonsense mutations on 1 allele. No truncated protein was detected in either cytoplasmic or nuclear fractions in mutation‐carrying cells. The expression level and cellular location of full‐length menin did not differ between cell lines derived from MEN1 patients and healthy donors. This suggests that the wild‐type allele has been up‐regulated in mutation‐carrying cells to compensate for the loss of 1 functional allele. Int. J. Cancer 85:877–881, 2000. © 2000 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prospect Theory and Liquidation Decisions

We solve a liquidation problem for an agent with preferences consistent with the prospect theory of Kahneman and Tversky [Econometrica 47 (1979) 263–291]. We find that the agent is willing to hold a risky project with a relatively inferior Sharpe ratio if the project is currently making losses, and intends to liquidate it when it breaks even. On the other hand, the agent may liquidate a project with a relatively superior Sharpe ratio if its current profits rise or drop to the break-even point. Our results capture the spirit of the disposition effect and the break-even effect documented in empirical and experimental studies.
The psychosocial context of young adult sexual behavior in Nicaragua: looking through the gender lens.

CONTEXT Understanding the nature and magnitude of gender differences in sexual norms among young adults in Nicaragua, and how these differences affect sexual behavior, is important for the design of reproductive health programs. METHODS A representative cross-sectional survey was conducted in six departments in the Pacific region of Nicaragua in 1998. A total of 552 never-married women and 289 never-married men aged 15-24 were interviewed about their perceptions of social pressure to engage in premarital sex; perceived social approval of and attitudes toward premarital sex and premarital pregnancy; perceived sexual activity among peers and siblings; communication with parents on sexuality issues; the psychosocial context of sexual debut; and preferred sources of information on sexuality issues. RESULTS Most young men (83%) reported that they had received direct encouragement from at least one person in the last year to engage in premarital sex, and at least half perceived that their father, siblings, other relatives and friends approved of premarital intercourse. A significantly greater proportion of men than of women reported that curiosity or gaining experience motivated their sexual debut (61% vs. 21%). Men perceived themselves to have a higher risk of unplanned and unprotected sex than did women. In contrast, women held more negative attitudes toward premarital sex and were more often discouraged by parents or siblings from engaging in sex. CONCLUSIONS Reproductive health programs for young Nicaraguans need to address gender-based double standards, which raise the risk of unplanned, unprotected sex and unintended pregnancy.
Optimizing Rate Control for Multiple Fine-granular Scalable Video Streams

MPEG-4 FGS is a promising coding method for video streaming over the Internet. We consider the problem of allocating rates to multiple FGS sources with the goal to optimize the global video quality of all streaming sources. For this, we construct an analytical model of the target system and develop an FGS video streaming rate control algorithm (FSRC). Preliminary results show that the video quality of all streams achieved by our FSRC algorithm is superior to that obtained with TCP-friendly Rate Control Protocol (TFRC).
Long-term Results After Restorative Proctocolectomy With Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis at a Young Age

Background: Restorative proctocolectomy with IPAA is an optimal surgical treatment for patients with familial adenomatous polyposis and therapy resistant ulcerative colitis, few data are available on long-term results in patients who have undergone this operation at a young age. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate long-term functional outcome, quality of life, body image, and sexual function after restorative proctocolectomy with IPAA in young patients with familial adenomatous polyposis or ulcerative colitis. Design, Settings, and Patients: The study consisted of a retrospective review of medical records and questionnaire follow-up of 26 consecutive patients with familial adenomatous polyposis or ulcerative colitis who had undergone surgery between January 1992 and October 2008 at the Maastricht University Medical Center, were aged 10 to 24 years at the time of surgery, and had at least 1 year of follow-up after surgery. Main Outcome Measures: We reviewed medical records from an institutional database regarding surgical procedures and short- and long-term complications. At the end of 2009, validated questionnaires covering bowel function (Colorectal Functional Outcome Questionnaire), quality of life (Short Form-36 and Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index), body image and cosmesis (Body Image Questionnaire), and sexual function (International Index of Erectile Function for men and Female Sexual Function Index for women) were mailed to patients. Results: Median age at surgery was 18 years, and median follow-up was 12.5 (range, 2–18) years. Long-term colorectal complications occurred in 23 patients (88%), and were directly related to the surgery in 20 patients (77%). Five patients needed pouch excision. The questionnaire response rate was 88%. Bowel function, quality-of-life, and body image and cosmesis scores were all lower in patients than in historical normal control populations. Men did not report impotence or retrograde ejaculation, but 50% of women reported sexual dysfunction. Limitations: This was a retrospective study in a small number of patients from a single institution with no comparison groups. Conclusions: Restorative proctocolectomy with IPAA can be performed in young patients with an acceptable functional outcome, but at the cost of relatively high complication rates, poor body image and cosmesis, and a high rate of sexual dysfunction in women. Because young patients undergoing this surgical procedure may experience negative long-term effects, surgeons should be aware of all potential consequences, inform patients as to what to expect, and ensure long-term follow-up to deal with long-term complications.
On the duration of magnetochrons C24r and C25n and the timing of early Eocene global warming events: Implications from the Ocean Drilling Program Leg 208 Walvis Ridge depth transect

[1] Five sections drilled in multiple holes over a depth transect of more than 2200 m at the Walvis Ridge (SE Atlantic) during Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Leg 208 resulted in the first complete early Paleogene deep-sea record. Here we present high-resolution stratigraphic records spanning a ∼4.3 million yearlong interval of the late Paleocene to early Eocene. This interval includes the Paleocene-Eocene thermal maximum (PETM) as well as the Eocene thermal maximum (ETM) 2 event. A detailed chronology was developed with nondestructive X-ray fluorescence (XRF) core scanning records and shipboard color data. These records were used to refine the shipboard-derived spliced composite depth for each site and with a record from ODP Site 1051 were then used to establish a continuous time series over this interval. Extensive spectral analysis reveals that the early Paleogene sedimentary cyclicity is dominated by precession modulated by the short (100 kyr) and long (405 kyr) eccentricity cycles. Counting of precession-related cycles at multiple sites results in revised estimates for the duration of magnetochrons C24r and C25n. Direct comparison between the amplitude modulation of the precession component derived from XRF data and recent models of Earth's orbital eccentricity suggests that the onset of the PETM and ETM2 are related to a 100-kyr eccentricity maximum. Both events are approximately a quarter of a period offset from a maximum in the 405-kyr eccentricity cycle, with the major difference that the PETM is lagging and ETM2 is leading a 405-kyr eccentricity maximum. Absolute age estimates for the PETM, ETM2, and the magnetochron boundaries that are consistent with recalibrated radiometric ages and recent models of Earth's orbital eccentricity cannot be precisely determined at present because of too large uncertainties in these methods. Nevertheless, we provide two possible tuning options, which demonstrate the potential for the development of a cyclostratigraphic framework based on the stable 405-kyr eccentricity cycle for the entire Paleogene.
Peyniraltı Suyu ve Tozunun Hamur ve Ekmek Özelliklerine Etkisi Üzerinde bir Araştırma

In this study, the effects of whey solid of 3% and equivalent amount pasteurized whey with 1% technique lecithin versus control on mixing properties of dough and bread quality for bread flour of 74-76 extraction rate were investigated. The results which are significant at 0.05 level statistically were summarized below. The both whey form while decrease water absorbtion, increased mixing requirement pasteurized whey with lecithine lowered the absorbtion more the others. In the baking experiments, the both whey forms while decrease loaf volume and specific volume, increased crust color intensity and the firmness of crumb after 24 hour shelf life but not after 72 hours. Technique lecithine affected the all bread properties satisfactorily.
Molecular Systems with Infinite and Finite Degrees of Freedom. Part II: Deterministic Dynamics and Examples

In this paper we consider deterministic limits of molecular stochastic systems with finite and infinite degrees of freedom. The method to obtain the deterministic vector field is based on the continuum limit of such microscopic systems which has been derived in [11]. With the aid of the theory we finally develop a new approach for molecular systems that describe typical enzyme kinetics or other interactions between molecular machines like genetic elements and smaller communicating molecules. In contrast to the literature on enzyme kinetics the resulting deterministic functional responses are not derived by time-scale arguments on the macroscopic level, but are a result of time scaling transition rates on the discrete microscopic level. We present several examples of common functional responses found in the literature, like Michaelis-Menten and Hill equation. We finally give examples of more complex but typical macro-molecular machinery.
The role of the p53 protein in the selective vulnerability of the inner retina to transient ischemia.

PURPOSE To determine whether the p53 protein plays a role in the selective vulnerability of the inner retina to transient ischemia. METHODS Transient retinal ischemia was induced using a high intraocular pressure (HIOP) model in the Sprague-Dawley rat for 60 minutes. Histopathologic outcome was determined 7 days after ischemia. In addition, analysis for evidence for apoptosis (TdT-dUTP terminal nick-end label [TUNEL] staining) and p53 protein expression (immunohistochemistry) was performed at several points during the reperfusion period. In a separate set of experiments, wild-type mice and two groups of transgenic mice, one homozygous and the other heterozygous for the p53 null gene, were also subjected to HIOP for 60 minutes, and histopathology was performed 7 days later. RESULTS At 7 days subsequent to 60 minutes of ischemia in the rat, there was marked thinning of the inner retinal layers. There were scattered TUNEL-positive cells within the inner retina, peaking at 24 to 48 hours and persisting for at least 7 days. p53 immunochemistry demonstrated elevated protein levels within the inner retina; this finding peaked at 24 to 48 hours but was no longer present at 4 days after ischemia. TUNEL staining of the inner retina of the mouse was most prominent 24 hours subsequent to ischemia but persisted at 48 hours. Seven days subsequent to 60 minutes of ischemia in the wild-type and transgenic mice, histopathologic evaluation demonstrated preservation of the retinal histoarchitecture in the heterozygous group compared with the wild-type or homozygous animals. CONCLUSIONS These data further support the hypothesis that the delayed cell death that occurs after transient retinal ischemia is, in part, apoptotic. In addition, they suggest a role for the p53 protein in the selective vulnerability of the inner retina to transient ischemia. p53 protein may be a target for future therapeutic agents in the treatment of disorders of the retina where ischemia plays a pathogenetic role.
Design rules of high reflectivity Bragg GaAlN mirrors for 300nm VCSELs

Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers (VCSELs) emitting in the Ultra Violet (UV) wavelength range (300 nm) are of great importance for spectroscopy, storage, or medical applications. GaAlN based material is well appropriate to achieve this objective. We have developed a model that takes into account band-gap, absorption, refractive index of GaAlN material as function of its composition and used it to define the rules for the design of high reflectivity GaAlN based Bragg reflectors. On one hand, the index contrast between the two materials of the Bragg mirror has to be as high as possible to have a limited number of periods and high reflectivity. On the other hand, we are limited by two phenomena to reach the lowest lasing wavelength : the absorption of the material and the lattice mismatch between the two material used in the mirror. In other words, starting with AlN/GaN couple of material that offers the highest index contrast, we have to increase the Ga content in AlN layer to have a better lattice matching with GaN and to increase the content of Al in GaN layer to limit the absorption of the material. This paper will discuss the trade - off that has to be considered to get high reflectivity mirror with the lowest number of period for very short wavelength (300nm).
Effects of metformin extended release compared to immediate release formula on glycemic control and glycemic variability in patients with type 2 diabetes

Purpose The purpose of this study is to evaluate, in a randomized clinical trial, the effects of metformin immediate release (IR) compared with metformin extended release (XR) on the gastrointestinal tolerability and glycemic control. Materials and methods We enrolled 253 Caucasian patients with type 2 diabetes not well controlled by diet (glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c] >7.0% and <8.5%). Patients were randomized to metformin IR or metformin XR for a period of 6 months at the maximum tolerated dose. The average dose of metformin IR used was 2,000±1,000 mg/day, while that of metformin XR was 1,000±500 mg/day. We evaluated body weight, HbA1c, fasting and postprandial glucose, fasting plasma insulin (FPI) and homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), lipid profile, and levels of some adipocytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), visfatin, and vaspin. Moreover, at the baseline and after 6 months, we administered patients some validated questionnaires to assess patients’ satisfaction toward treatments. Results After 6 months, both formulations gave a similar reduction in body weight and body mass index (BMI); however, metformin XR gave a greater improvement in glycemic control, FPI, and HOMA-IR, compared with both baseline and metformin IR. A reduction in total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol was observed with metformin XR compared with IR. Levels of TNF-α, hs-CRP, and vaspin were reduced by metformin XR but not by the IR formulation. Metformin XR also raised the levels of visfatin. Conclusion Metformin XR formulation seems to be more effective than metformin IR in improving glyco-metabolic control, lipid profile, and levels of some adipocytokines in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
An Experimental Investigation into the Strength of Angle Ply GRP Tubes under High Rate of Loading

Static and dynamic burst tests were carried out on filament wound glass reinforced plas tic (GRP) tubes. The tubes were loaded under internal pressure with minimum end con straints. In the static tests, the pressure was supplied to the rig by a Losenhausen servo hydraulic intensifier system, whereas in the dynamic tests a drop hammer apparatus was used to generate the pressure, giving medium strain rates of the order of 10 sec-1. Higher strain rate burst tests were carried out using suitable explosives. A system for fast data acquisition was developed so that during each test, the internal pressure and strains in the central section of the specimen could be recorded, the data processed and the results auto matically plotted in the form of pressure-time, strain-time and stress-strain curves. Some high speed photographs were also taken during the dynamic bursting of the tubes to record the failure mode for each winding angle. The results showed no significant change in the strength, strain to failure or the secant modulus of the tubes at strain rates up to about 10 sec-1, typical to the drop hammer apparatus. There was, however, a large increase in burst strength as the strain rate was further increased to 150 sec-1 during the explosive tests. The values of strain to failure were also increased, thus leaving the secant modulus of the tubes virtually unaltered.
Automatic fluoroscopic Image Calibration for Traumatology Intervention Guidance

Fluoroscopic images are often used in surgery but they are difficult to exploit in computer aided medical intervention because of their numerous disadvantages. A simple method, compatible with surgical use, is presented and applied to a common operation in traumatology: the distal targeting during intra-medullary nailing. We also show how calibrated data from fluoroscopy imaging system combined to virtual reality techniques can guide the surgeon in such difficult tasks
Serum Growth-Promoting Activity in Normal and Hypotrophic Fetuses at Midpregnancy

ABSTRACT: Blood from 24 human fetuses aged 19–24 wk was collected by ultrasound-guided puncture of the umbilical cord in utero, performed for prenatal diagnosis of mother to fetus transmissible infections. Fetal serum growth-promoting activity (thymidine activity) was measured by its effect on 3H-thymidine incorporation into human lectin-activated lymphocytes. Ten blood samples were obtained at 19–22 wk of pregnancy and 14 at 23–24 wk. The pregnancies were maintained and the fetuses delivered, free of infection, at 38–40 wk, nine of them being small for date and 15 having a normal weight for gestation age. The bioassayable thymidine activity was significantly lower in the hypotrophic (0.84 ±; 0.04 U/ml) than in the normal fetuses (1.28 ±; 0.09 U/ml) whatever the time of sampling. Thymidine activity was significantly negatively correlated with gestational age in the normal for date fetuses, not in the small for date. It is suggested that early measurement of thymidine activity in fetal blood might be of value in the assessment of fetal growth despite the fact that the tissue growth factors may be more important in fetus than are the serum factors.
Long‐chain polynucleotide filler for skin rejuvenation: efficacy and complications in five patients

Aging well has become the new target of preventative medicine, and aesthetic dermatology can contribute to this request. The polynucleotide (PN) containing products not only fill the space, but improve tissue regeneration, resulting in more natural tissue regeneration. Five Korean women received four times injections of long‐chain PN filler in two‐week intervals for skin rejuvenation. About 0.05 mL of material was injected in 40 points of one‐side cheek. The pore and skin thickness were markedly improved in the patients in their 30s, whereas skin tone, melanin, wrinkles, and sagging were noticeably improved for patients in their 40s. There are no serious side effects. In conclusion, intradermal long‐chain PN filler injection seems to be an effective and safe treatment for skin rejuvenation.
Prolonged converting enzyme inhibition in non-modulating hypertension.

Patients with normal- or high-renin non-modulating essential hypertension fail to shift their adrenal sensitivity on a low sodium diet in response to an infusion of angiotensin II (Ang II). In a prior study, 72 hours of converting enzyme inhibition (CEI) partially corrected this subnormal aldosterone response to Ang II in patients with non-modulating hypertension. Since it was uncertain whether the failure to restore normal adrenal responsiveness reflected a continued abnormality or an insufficient duration of CEI, the present study was performed wherein subjects were studied before CEI and then 72 hours and 6 weeks after CEI. Adrenal and renovascular responses were assessed in 13 subjects with normal- or high-renin hypertension in response to an infusion of Ang II (0.3, 1.0, and 3.0 ng/kg/min) in balance on a 10 meq Na+/100 meq K+ diet. Eight of 13 had a normal plasma aldosterone increment above control levels (greater than or equal to 15 ng/dl) and were classified as modulators; the remaining subjects (five of 13) were classified as non-modulators. Enalapril was then administered for 72 hours and 6 weeks, and the assessment of the Ang II dose-response relations was repeated. In the modulators, there was no change compared with levels before CEI in the aldosterone dose-response curve or threshold sensitivity to infused Ang II at either 3 days or 6 weeks after CEI administration. In the non-modulators, CEI for 72 hours partially restored aldosterone responsiveness, but more prolonged CEI for 6 weeks completely corrected the defect, restoring aldosterone responsiveness on a sodium-restricted diet to that seen in modulators and in normotensive control subjects. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)