Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Multiple faces of fibroblast growth factor-23

Purpose of reviewThis review examines the role of fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) in mineral metabolism, innate immunity and adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Recent findingsFGF-23, produced by osteocytes in bone, activates FGFR/&agr;-Klotho (&agr;-Kl) complexes in the kidney. The resulting bone–kidney axis coordinates renal phosphate reabsorption with bone mineralization, and creates a counter-regulatory feedback loop to prevent vitamin D toxicity. FGF-23 acts to counter-regulate the effects of vitamin D on innate immunity and cardiovascular responses. FGF-23 is ectopically expressed along with &agr;-Kl in activated macrophages, creating a proinflammatory paracrine signaling pathway that counters the antiinflammatory actions of vitamin D. FGF-23 also inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 expression and increases sodium reabsorption in the kidney, leading to hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy. Finally, FGF-23 is purported to cause adverse cardiac and impair neutrophil responses through activation of FGFRs in the absence of &agr;-Kl. Although secreted forms of &agr;-Kl have FGF-23 independent effects, the possibility of &agr;-Kl independent effects of FGF-23 is controversial and requires additional experimental validation. SummaryFGF-23 participates in a bone–kidney axis regulating mineral homeostasis, proinflammatory paracrine macrophage signaling pathways, and in a bone–cardio–renal axis regulating hemodynamics that counteract the effects of vitamin D.
A Hypomorphic Vasopressin Allele Prevents Anxiety-Related Behavior

Background To investigate neurobiological correlates of trait anxiety, CD1 mice were selectively bred for extremes in anxiety-related behavior, with high (HAB) and low (LAB) anxiety-related behavior mice additionally differing in behavioral tests reflecting depression-like behavior. Methodology/ Principal Findings In this study, microarray analysis, in situ hybridization, quantitative real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry revealed decreased expression of the vasopressin gene (Avp) in the hypothalamic paraventricular (PVN) and supraoptic (SON) nuclei of adult LAB mice compared to HAB, NAB (normal anxiety-related behavior) and HABxLAB F1 intercross controls, without detecting differences in receptor expression or density. By sequencing the regions 2.5 kbp up- and downstream of the Avp gene locus, we could identify several polymorphic loci, differing between the HAB and LAB lines. In the gene promoter, a deletion of twelve bp Δ(−2180–2191) is particularly likely to contribute to the reduced Avp expression detected in LAB animals under basal conditions. Indeed, allele-specific transcription analysis of F1 animals revealed a hypomorphic LAB-specific Avp allele with a reduced transcription rate by 75% compared to the HAB-specific allele, thus explaining line-specific Avp expression profiles and phenotypic features. Accordingly, intra-PVN Avp mRNA levels were found to correlate with anxiety-related and depression-like behaviors. In addition to this correlative evidence, a significant, though moderate, genotype/phenotype association was demonstrated in 258 male mice of a freely-segregating F2 panel, suggesting a causal contribution of the Avp promoter deletion to anxiety-related behavior. Discussion Thus, the identification of polymorphisms in the Avp gene promoter explains gene expression differences in association with the observed phenotype, thus further strengthening the concept of the critical involvement of centrally released AVP in trait anxiety.
Director Experience and the Performance of IPOs: Evidence from Sweden

An initial public offering (IPO) represents one of the final stages in the life of a small firm as it transitions from private to public. In this paper the experience of directors is examined to determine the extent of the role they play in ensuring a successful listing. Unique data from 122 IPOs on the Swedish Stock Exchange have been examined in a search for the effect of director experience on aftermarket performance. Specific aspects of director experience within a board, such as interlocking directorships and average tenure, are connected to the underpricing of Swedish IPOs. Contrary to expectations, no statistically significant relationship was found between long-run aftermarket performance and director experience at the time of an IPO. This suggests that the previous experience of directors, as measured in earlier studies, is less relevant to long-term aftermarket performance in Sweden compared to other countries studied in the literature review. This emphasises the importance of examining different institutional contexts.
Correlates of nutrition label use among college students and young adults: a review

Abstract Objective Nutrition labels are an essential source for consumers to obtain nutrition-related information on food products and serve as a population-level intervention with unparalleled reach. The present study systematically reviewed existing evidence on the correlates of nutrition label use among college students and young adults. Design Keyword and reference searches were conducted in PubMed, EBSCO, PsycInfo, Cochrane Library and Web of Science. Inclusion criteria included: study design (randomized controlled trial, cohort study, pre–post study or cross-sectional study); population (college students and young adults 18–30 years old); main outcome (nutrition label use); article type (peer-reviewed publication); and language (English). Setting College/university. Subjects College students and young adults. Results Sixteen studies based on data from college surveys in four countries (USA, UK, Canada, South Korea) were identified from keyword and reference search. Reported prevalence of nutrition label use varied substantially across studies; a weighted average calculation showed 36·5 % of college students and young adults reported using labels always or often. Females were more likely to use nutrition labels than males. Nutrition label use was found to be associated with attitudes towards healthy diet, beliefs on the importance of nutrition labels in guiding food selection, self-efficacy, and nutrition knowledge and education. Conclusions The impact of nutrition labelling on food purchase and intake could differ by population subgroups. Nutrition awareness campaigns and education programmes may be important mechanisms for promoting nutrition label use among college students and young adults. Future research is warranted to assess the role of label use on improved dietary decisions.
Flame retarding effects of nanoclay on wood–fiber composites

This research article focuses on investigating the effects of nanoclay particles on the flame retarding characteristics of wood–fiber/plastic composites (WPC) using ASTM D635. The processing aspects of nanocomposites with WPC are presented. The processing techniques for controlling the degree of exfoliation and the cost aspect are also described. It turns out that the coupling agent used for wood–fibers is also effective for the exfoliation of clay, and therefore, no additional cost is required. This research indicates that the structure of nanocomposites (i.e., the degree of exfoliation) and the clay content used have a large impact on the flame retardancy of WPC. The flame retardancy is investigated as a function of these parameters. Based on this, a cost-effective way to improve flame retardancy of WPC is presented. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 47:308–313, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Multimodal quantitative examination of nerve function in colorectal cancer patients prior to chemotherapy

Introduction: Given recent findings of subclinical sensory deficits in colorectal cancer patients before oxaliplatin treatment, in the current study we aimed to identify evidence of subclinical peripheral neuropathy on multimodal testing before chemotherapy commencement. Methods: Clinical, functional, and neurophysiological assessments were undertaken in 93 colorectal cancer patients before chemotherapy. Results: There was no neurophysiological evidence of neuropathy, with 92 of 93 sural sensory values within normative reference values for age and no significant abnormalities detected in nerve conduction or nerve excitability studies. Clinical neurological assessment revealed 75.9% of patients with no signs or symptoms, 10.3% with reduction in distal vibration or pinprick sensitivity, and 6.9% with reduction in ankle reflexes only. There was no difference in manual dexterity (using the 9‐hole peg‐board test) compared with normative data. Discussion: The present study has established a low likelihood of significant distal symmetrical polyneuropathy in colorectal cancer patients before initiation of chemotherapy. Muscle Nerve 57: 615–621, 2018
A study on the influence of ageing of coatings on their mechanical properties and fracture in ballast tanks

ABSTRACT Inspections have shown that coatings used in water ballast tanks (WBTs) can fracture prior to their target design life. This has led to local corrosion of the substrate and unwanted maintenance which is time-consuming and costly for the shipowner. The objective of the current study is to show that ageing of marine coatings used in WBTs can reduce the coatings’ fracture strain to a level lower than the strain of the substrate. Laboratory tests were conducted to subject three commercial WBT coatings to different types of ageing. Changes in their mechanical properties were confirmed. Finite element analyses of a 4400 twenty-foot equivalent unit container vessel were carried out for a number of sea state conditions. The strains of the hull structure (i.e. the substrate) were calculated and compared with the fracture strains of the aged coatings. It was shown that, in many locations, the strain of the substrate can exceed the fracture strain of aged coatings. Finally, systematic study with proactive coating condition performance monitoring is discussed.
The imidazoacridinone C-1311 induces p53-dependent senescence or p53-independent apoptosis and sensitizes cancer cells to radiation

C-1311 is a small molecule, which has shown promise in a number of pre-clinical and clinical studies. However, the biological response to C-1311 exposure is complicated and has been reported to involve a number of cell fates. Here, we investigated the molecular signaling which determines the response to C-1311 in both cancer and non-cancer cell lines. For the first time we demonstrate that the tumor suppressor, p53 plays a key role in cell fate determination after C-1311 treatment. In the presence of wild-type p53, cells exposed to C-1311 entered senescence. In contrast, cells lines without functional p53 underwent mitotic catastrophe and apoptosis. C-1311 also induced autophagy in a non-p53-dependent manner. Cells in hypoxic conditions also responded to C-1311 in a p53-dependent manner, suggesting that our observations are physiologically relevant. Most importantly, we show that C-1311 can be effectively combined with radiation to improve the radiosensitivity of a panel of cancer cell lines. Together, our data suggest that C-1311 warrants further clinical testing in combination with radiotherapy for the treatment of solid tumors.
Fibronectin-Binding Protein Gene Recombination and Horizontal Transfer between Group A and G Streptococci

ABSTRACT We report evidence of interspecies gene transfer between the important virulence factor genes sfbI and gfbA. Because the identified group G streptococcus gfbA types possess DNA cassettes that can be identified in a number of group A streptococcus strains, it appears that homologous recombination is occurring between these species.
Ventral tegmental area inactivation alters hormonal, metabolic, and locomotor responses to inescapable stress

Abstract Context: The involvement of unilateral and bilateral inhibition of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in response to stress is not well understood. Objective: In the present study, the effect of unilateral and bilateral inhibition of the VTA on hormonal, metabolic, and locomotor responses to stress was assessed. Material and methods: Male rats seven days after cannulation into the VTA received electro foot-shock stress for seven consecutive days. Twenty minutes before induction of stress, 2% lidocaine hydrochloride or sterile saline (control) was injected either uni- or bi-laterally into the VTA. Results: Results showed that stress significantly increased serum corticosterone level, adrenal gland weight and anorexia, reduced weight gain, food-intake, and locomotor activity. However, bilateral inactivation of VTA prevented stress-induced these parameters changes. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that the bilateral VTA blockade effectively relieves the symptoms of stress, while the unilateral VTA blockade does not significantly improve the changes caused by stress.
The use of psychiatry‐focused simulation in undergraduate nursing education: A systematic search and review

Evidence on the use of simulation to teach psychiatry and mental health (including addiction) content is emerging, yet no summary of the implementation processes or associated outcomes exists. The aim of this study was to systematically search and review empirical literature on the use of psychiatry-focused simulation in undergraduate nursing education. Objectives were to (i) assess the methodological quality of existing evidence on the use of simulation to teach mental health content to undergraduate nursing students, (ii) describe the operationalization of the simulations, and (iii) summarize the associated quantitative and qualitative outcomes. We conducted online database (MEDLINE, Embase, ERIC, CINAHL, PsycINFO from January 2004 to October 2015) and grey literature searches. Thirty-two simulation studies were identified describing and evaluating six types of simulations (standardized patients, audio simulations, high-fidelity simulators, virtual world, multimodal, and tabletop). Overall, 2724 participants were included in the studies. Studies reflected a limited number of intervention designs, and outcomes were evaluated with qualitative and quantitative methods incorporating a variety of tools. Results indicated that simulation was effective in reducing student anxiety and improving their knowledge, empathy, communication, and confidence. The summarized qualitative findings all supported the benefit of simulation; however, more research is needed to assess the comparative effectiveness of the types of simulations. Recommendations from the findings include the development of guidelines for educators to deliver each simulation component (briefing, active simulation, debriefing). Finally, consensus around appropriate training of facilitators is needed, as is consistent and agreed upon simulation terminology.
SESAME Opens: A Precursor to Human Asteroid Missions

A common path for human spaceflight is currently often envisioned to lead to Near Earth Asteroids (NEA) within the next decades. While the goal is clear this is not so true for the targets. Just as unmanned probes investigated the lunar surface before humans ever set foot on our natural satellite, it is advisable – considering the current lack of knowledge about NEAs even mandatory – to send an unmanned mission ahead to conduct measurements in preparation of a human mission. Just as with the moon more than one target area should be investigated, i.e. more than one target asteroid. While many designs for the actual human mission already exist, scenarios for a precursor mission are scarcer. In this paper we present a feasible design for a multi-rendezvous mission to targets suitable for human missions, able to reach up to 5 asteroids with one launch. We will propose a system that will be able to measure various properties of each asteroid, e.g. chemical composition and topography and describe it on a subsystem level, providing mass and power budgets for the whole system. The results show that a spacecraft of about 1,600 kg launch mass and utilizing solar electric propulsion can fly a 5 target mission within 10 years. With a sensitivity analysis we will show the robustness of the design and generally establish the feasibility of such a mission.
The Challenges of Dysphagia Management and Rehabilitation in Two Complex Cases Post Chemical Ingestion Injury.

Purpose Dysphagia is common sequelae of chemical ingestion injury, resulting from damage to critical swallowing structures. From a speech-language pathology perspective, this study outlines the physiological deficits in 2 individuals with severe injury (1 woman, acid; 1 man, alkali) and the pattern of dysphagia rehabilitation and recovery. Method A retrospective chart review of clinical and instrumental assessments was conducted to examine swallow characteristics and speech-language pathology management (compensatory and rehabilitation strategies) at multiple time points. Results Chemical ingestion injury resulted in severe pharyngeal dysphagia for both participants, warranting speech-language pathology management. Dysphagia was characterized by poor base of tongue mobility and reduced laryngeal excursion. Decreased airway patency and protection, secondary to mucosal sloughing, widespread edema, and structural deficits necessitated tracheostomy. Recovery was complicated by physical alterations of pharyngeal and laryngeal structures (e.g., interarytenoid adhesions) and esophageal strictures. Participant 1 was discharged (Day 135) consuming a texture-modified diet; Participant 2 remained nil by mouth (Day 329). Conclusions Dysphagia recovery subsequent to chemical ingestion is protracted and complex. Clinical outcomes may be improved through individualized and intensive rehabilitation by speech-language pathologists.
Developmental expression of two forms of pp60c-src in mouse brain

The expression during mouse development of two forms of protein-tyrosine kinase pp60c-src, pp60 and pp60+, was investigated. At embryonic day 9 (E9), only pp60 was detected in whole-brain lysates. A trace of pp60+ was first seen at E10. In E18 embryos and in adults, pp60+ was the predominant form of pp60c-src in forebrain and midbrain lysates.
Retraction Notice: Non-Adherence Related Factors to Antihypertensive MedicationsAmong Hypertensive Patients on Follow up at Nedjo General Hospitalin West Ethiopia

Results: Only 54 (31.4%) of the study participants were adherent to their treatment. On multivariable logistic analysis non-adherence was more likely to occur among those with age of >55 years (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.10, 95% CI = 0.01-0.85, p=0.035), illiteracy (AOR = 6.76, 95% CI = 1.01-45.08, p=0.049), income status of <500 Ethiopian birr (AOR = 18.51, 95% CI = 1.95-176.06, p=0.011), duration of treatments of >5 years (AOR = 5.41, 95% CI = 1.08-27.22, p=0.041), physical inactivity (AOR = 34.51, 95% CI = 4.66-255.89, p=0.001) and knowledge deficit about hypertension and its treatment (AOR = 7.67, 95% CI = 2.48-23.73, p<0.001).
XLore: A Large-scale English-Chinese Bilingual Knowledge Graph

Current Wikipedia-based multilingual knowledge bases still suffer the following problems: (i) the scarcity of non-English knowledge, (ii) the noise in the semantic relations and (iii) the limited coverage of equivalent cross-lingual entities. In this demo, we present a large-scale bilingual knowledge graph named XLore, which has adequately solved the above problems.
W-Air

Accurate, portable and personal air pollution sensing devices enable quantification of individual exposure to air pollution, personalized health advice and assistance applications. Wearables are promising (e.g., on wristbands, attached to belts or backpacks) to integrate commercial off-the-shelf gas sensors for personal air pollution sensing. Yet previous research lacks comprehensive investigations on the accuracies of air pollution sensing on wearables. In response, we proposed W-Air, an accurate personal multi-pollutant monitoring platform for wearables. We discovered that human emissions introduce non-linear interference when low-cost gas sensors are integrated into wearables, which is overlooked in existing studies. W-Air adopts a sensor-fusion calibration scheme to recover high-fidelity ambient pollutant concentrations from the human interference. It also leverages a neural network with shared hidden layers to boost calibration parameter training with fewer measurements and utilizes semi-supervised regression for calibration parameter updating with little user intervention. We prototyped W-Air on a wristband with low-cost gas sensors. Evaluations demonstrated that W-Air reports accurate measurements both with and without human interference and is able to automatically learn and adapt to new environments.
PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS AMONG HAUSA COMMUNITIES IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA

SUMMARY Schistosomiasis remains one of the most prevalent neglected tropical diseases especially in Nigeria which has the greatest number of infected people worldwide. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 551 participants from Kano State, North Central Nigeria. Fecal samples were examined for the presence of Schistosoma mansoni eggs using the formalin-ether sedimentation method while the urine samples were examined using the filtration technique for the presence of S. haematobium eggs. Demographic, socioeconomic and environmental information was collected using a pre-validated questionnaire. The overall prevalence of schistosomiasis was 17.8%, with 8.9% and 8.3% infected with S. mansoni and S. haematobium, respectively and 0.5% presenting co-infection with both species. The multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that age < 18 years (OR = 2.13; 95% CI; 1.34- 3.41), presence of infected family members (OR = 3.98; 95% CI; 2.13-7.46), and history of infection (OR = 2.87; 95% CI; 1.87- 4.56) were the significant risk factors associated with schistosomiasis in these communities. In conclusion, this study revealed that schistosomiasis is still prevalent among Hausa communities in Nigeria. Mass drug administration, health education and community mobilization are imperative strategies to significantly reduce the prevalence and morbidity of schistosomiasis in these communities.
Inclusion Optimized Silicon for the Production of Silicones

One of the challenges with silicones production is the accumulation of impurities from metallurgical grade silicon (MG-Si) in the reactor. Size, shape and density of the intermetallics affect the accumulation, and their size distribution is also dependent on the thermal history of silicon. Different annealing treatments were carried out on MG-Si in order to investigate the reordering of the intermetallics from liquid state. The surfaces of the sample were analyzed with BSE-SEM images and the computer program ImageJ. The results show that the size of the intermetallics increases with time and temperature, whereas aspect ratio and number of inclusions have the opposite trend. Temperature above 850°C is a necessary condition for transformations to start. The composition has changed after a melting step was performed in air. XRF chemical analysis confirms the effects of oxidation refining and segregation. The software SiStruc calculated the expected contents of phases based only on thermodynamics. EPMA and BSE-SEM image analysis estimated the phase composition on an untreated and on a treated sample. A comparison between expectations from SiStruc and EPMA-BSE combined analysis is also presented. It can be stated that there could be reactions between intermetallic phases. The effects of the annealing and refining on the composition are compared to the expected change on reactivity and selectivity in the silicones production.