Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Daytime stem swelling and seasonal reversal in the peristaltic depletion of stored water along the stem of Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh

Diurnal courses of stem radial water dynamics represent the sum of all internal and external conditions affecting tree water relations. Changes in stem radius due to early morning water depletion and night time refilling of storage tissues is generally well documented. This study seeks to understand the unusual daytime refilling of stem elastic storage tissues present in the mangrove species Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh, which deviates from our traditional understanding of hydraulics in terrestrial trees. We explored the relationship of this pattern to other water-related physiological processes and environmental variables, and investigated the seasonal changes in the timing and time lags of peak swelling at different stem heights, in order to understand the 'peristaltic' depletion of internally stored water. Our findings show that daytime stem swelling occurs year-round, even on days when leaf water potentials dropped to values lower than -4 MPa. The amplitude of stem swelling was strongly positively correlated to daily light sums more often than to measures of water availability in air and soil, especially in winter. There was also a clear seasonal reversal in the timing and direction of the 'peristaltic' depletion of water along the stem, with an earlier onset of shrinking in the upper (median = 10:00 h) than in the lower stem (median = 12:00 h) in winter, but an earlier onset of shrinking in the lower (median = 08:00 h) than in the upper stem (median = 11:00 h) in summer. This time lag was closely correlated to daily temperature, with a clear switch in the direction of peristaltic stem shrinking at the start of the growing season. We propose that sugar loading/unloading and changes in source-sink activity play a role in the endogenous osmotic adjustment responsible for daytime stem swelling and the seasonal switch in the direction of peristaltic water storage depletion in A. marina.
Multivalent Binding and Biomimetic Cell Rolling Improves the Sensitivity and Specificity of Circulating Tumor Cell Capture

Purpose: We aimed to examine the effects of multivalent binding and biomimetic cell rolling on the sensitivity and specificity of circulating tumor cell (CTC) capture. We also investigated the clinical significance of CTCs and their kinetic profiles in patients with cancer undergoing radiotherapy treatment. Experimental Design: Patients with histologically confirmed primary carcinoma undergoing radiotherapy, with or without chemotherapy, were eligible for enrollment. Peripheral blood was collected prospectively at up to five time points, including before radiotherapy, at the first week, mid-point and final week of treatment, as well as 4 to 12 weeks after completion of radiotherapy. CTC capture was accomplished using a nanotechnology-based assay (CapioCyte) functionalized with aEpCAM, aHER-2, and aEGFR. Results: CapioCyte was able to detect CTCs in all 24 cancer patients enrolled. Multivalent binding via poly(amidoamine) dendrimers further improved capture sensitivity. We also showed that cell rolling effect can improve CTC capture specificity (% of captured cells that are CK+/CD45−/DAPI+) up to 38%. Among the 18 patients with sequential CTC measurements, the median CTC decreased from 113 CTCs/mL before radiotherapy to 32 CTCs/mL at completion of radiotherapy (P = 0.001). CTCs declined throughout radiotherapy in patients with complete clinical and/or radiographic response, in contrast with an elevation in CTCs at mid or post-radiotherapy in the two patients with known pathologic residual disease. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that multivalent binding and cell rolling can improve the sensitivity and specificity of CTC capture compared with multivalent binding alone, allowing reliable monitoring of CTC changes during and after treatment. Clin Cancer Res; 24(11); 2539–47. ©2018 AACR.
Heart Rate Variability Predicts Treatment Outcome in Major Depression

Aims: Autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysregulation is associated with various symptoms of depressive disorder. The beat-to-beat pattern of heart rate (Heart Rate Variability) (HRV) provides a noninvasive portal to ANS function through the quantification of periodic heart rate patterns. In this study we quantified two components of HRV: Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia (RSA), and Low Frequency HRV (LF-HRV). Both of these components have been extensively reported in studies of depression and have been at least partially associated with reduction in vagal nerve tone. We quantified RSA and LF-HRV in patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) as measures of ANS regulation seeking to establish the utility of components of HRV as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for treatment outcome. Methods: Sixty-six MDD patients were enrolled. In two separate and consecutively run studies they received either Escitalopram or Quetiapine fumarate ER over 12 weeks. Forty-one patients completed the studies. RSA and LF-HRV were assessed at pretreatment and end of study. Thirty-six healthy subjects served as controls. RSA and LF-HRV were quantified using an algorithm that incorporates time and frequency domains to address the non-stationarity of the beat-to-beat heart rate pattern. Results: No significant differences in baseline RSA or LF-HRV were found between MDD and healthy controls. However, baseline RSA and LF-HRV were significantly higher in treatment responders (lnRSA = 6.20, lnLF-HRV = 5.76) than non-responders (lnRSA = 4.75, lnLF-HRV = 4.53) (p = 0.005, p = 0.006). No significant changes in RSA or LF-HRV were detected over the course of either treatment. Conclusions: Components of HRV may be predictive of antidepressant response in MDD patients.
Visible-light optical coherence tomography: a review

Abstract. Visible-light optical coherence tomography (vis-OCT) is an emerging imaging modality, providing new capabilities in both anatomical and functional imaging of biological tissue. It relies on visible light illumination, whereas most commercial and investigational OCTs use near-infrared light. As a result, vis-OCT requires different considerations in engineering design and implementation but brings unique potential benefits to both fundamental research and clinical care of several diseases. Here, we intend to provide a summary of the development of vis-OCT and its demonstrated applications. We also provide perspectives on future technology improvement and applications.
Fifty years of the integrated control concept: moving the model and implementation forward in Arizona††

Fifty years ago, Stern, Smith, van den Bosch and Hagen outlined a simple but sophisticated idea of pest control predicated on the complementary action of chemical and biological control. This integrated control concept has since been a driving force and conceptual foundation for all integrated pest management (IPM) programs. The four basic elements include thresholds for determining the need for control, sampling to determine critical densities, understanding and conserving the biological control capacity in the system and the use of selective insecticides or selective application methods, when needed, to augment biological control. Here we detail the development, evolution, validation and implementation of an integrated control (IC) program for whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Genn.), in the Arizona cotton system that provides a rare example of the vision of Stern and his colleagues. Economic thresholds derived from research-based economic injury levels were developed and integrated with rapid and accurate sampling plans into validated decision tools widely adopted by consultants and growers. Extensive research that measured the interplay among pest population dynamics, biological control by indigenous natural enemies and selective insecticides using community ordination methods, predator:prey ratios, predator exclusion and demography validated the critical complementary roles played by chemical and biological control. The term ‘bioresidual’ was coined to describe the extended environmental resistance from biological control and other forces possible when selective insecticides are deployed. The tangible benefits have been a 70% reduction in foliar insecticides, a >$200 million saving in control costs and yield, along with enhanced utilization of ecosystem services over the last 14 years. Published in 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resolution limit of cylinder diameter estimation by diffusion MRI: The impact of gradient waveform and orientation dispersion

Diffusion MRI has been proposed as a non‐invasive technique for axonal diameter mapping. However, accurate estimation of small diameters requires strong gradients, which is a challenge for the transition of the technique from preclinical to clinical MRI scanners, since these have weaker gradients. In this work, we develop a framework to estimate the lower bound for accurate diameter estimation, which we refer to as the resolution limit. We analyse only the contribution from the intra‐axonal space and assume that axons can be represented by impermeable cylinders. To address the growing interest in using techniques for diffusion encoding that go beyond the conventional single diffusion encoding (SDE) sequence, we present a generalised analysis capable of predicting the resolution limit regardless of the gradient waveform. Using this framework, waveforms were optimised to minimise the resolution limit. The results show that, for parallel cylinders, the SDE experiment is optimal in terms of yielding the lowest possible resolution limit. In the presence of orientation dispersion, diffusion encoding sequences with square‐wave oscillating gradients were optimal. The resolution limit for standard clinical MRI scanners (maximum gradient strength 60–80 mT/m) was found to be between 4 and 8 μm, depending on the noise levels and the level of orientation dispersion. For scanners with a maximum gradient strength of 300 mT/m, the limit was reduced to between 2 and 5 μm.
Keratinocyte growth factor and its receptor expression in chronic otitis media with and without cholesteatoma.

INTRODUCTION Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) with and without cholesteatoma is regarded as chronic inflammation of the middle ear and mastoid mucosa that can be associated with the presence of granulation tissue and infection, which can lead to ossicular damage and hearing loss, but it is commonly known that cholesteatoma behaves aggressively. Both lesions appear to contain a predominant population of inflammatory cells, among which proinflammatory cytokines secreting keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) and its receptor (KGFR). No clear difference was demonstrated between these entities. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential influence of KGF and KGFR in increased epithelial-cell proliferation of chronic otitis media (COM) with cholesteatoma in contrast to COM without cholesteatoma (CSOM), particularly in the granulative form, and to compare the rate of proliferation activity of epithelial cells using the Ki-67 epithelial proliferation marker expression. PATIENTS, MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyzed 105 ears with cholesteatoma vs. 53 ears with CSOM without cholesteatoma using our KGF and KGFR variables, and the ratio of proliferating epithelial cells using Ki-67. The percentage of the specimens expressing KGF and KGFR was compared between the two groups for statistical significance using the Pearson's chi-square test. Immunohistochemical staining was conducted and the proportion of the cells staining positive for the nuclear antigen Ki-67 was evaluated in a quantitative and visual way, using light microscopes. RESULTS KGF was positive in 88.57% of cholesteatoma and was positive in 41.51% CSOM without cholesteatoma specimens (cholesteatoma vs. CSOM, p=0.001). The positive rate of KGFR in the CSOM group was 33.96% compared to those in cholesteatoma, which was 60.95%. Compared to the cholesteatoma specimens, a significantly smaller number of Ki-67 labeling index was detected in CSOM specimens. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated that the abnormal behavior of the cholesteatoma epithelium seems to be induced by the paracrine interaction between KGF and KGFR. Furthermore, we found that cholesteatoma expressing both KGF and KGFR had high Ki-67 index, which correlated with its aggressiveness. These findings suggest that excessive KGF and KGFR synthesis may contribute to the hyperproliferative state in cholesteatoma and could explain the pathological difference between cholesteatoma and CSOM.
Reflecting on how we remember the personal past: missing components in the study of memory appraisal and theoretical implications

ABSTRACT The current paper offers a selective review of the study of memory appraisal, focusing on recollections of the personal past, with the goal to bring attention to a missing component in this study. To date, memory appraisal studies have concentrated on participants’ assessments of the content of their personal recollections (e.g., their perceptual detail and story-like feel), including beliefs about the accuracy of that content. Participants’ assessments of reflection processes accompanying their recollections (e.g., a sense of piecing-together recollection fragments) have yet to be extensively examined. The lack of information on process-based appraisals is related to prior studies’ procedural constraints (e.g., kinds of cue prompts and their timing, minimal opportunities for reflection). Reasons for addressing this missing component provide the central themes of the paper. The reasons emerge from the analysis of autobiographical cueing studies, including integration of narrative research studies and autobiographical works. The analysis leads to suggestions for future research involving the use of personal narratives that are intended to address critiques of reconstruction accounts and unresolved questions in the study of memory appraisal.
Dorsal Raphe Serotonin Neurons Mediate CO2-Induced Arousal from Sleep

Arousal from sleep in response to CO2 is a critical protective phenomenon. Dysregulation of CO2-induced arousal contributes to morbidity and mortality from prevalent diseases, such as obstructive sleep apnea and sudden infant death syndrome. Despite the critical nature of this protective reflex, the precise mechanism for CO2-induced arousal is unknown. Because CO2 is a major regulator of breathing, prevailing theories suggest that activation of respiratory chemo- and mechano-sensors is required for CO2-induced arousal. However, populations of neurons that are not involved in the regulation of breathing are also chemosensitive. Among these are serotonin (5-HT) neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) that comprise a component of the ascending arousal system. We hypothesized that direct stimulation of these neurons with CO2 could cause arousal from sleep independently of enhancing breathing. Dialysis of CO2-rich acidified solution into DRN, but not medullary raphe responsible for modulating breathing, caused arousal from sleep. Arousal was lost in mice with a genetic absence of 5-HT neurons, and with acute pharmacological or optogenetic inactivation of DRN 5-HT neurons. Here we demonstrate that CO2 can cause arousal from sleep directly, without requiring enhancement of breathing, and that chemosensitive 5-HT neurons in the DRN critically mediate this arousal. Better understanding mechanisms underlying this protective reflex may lead to interventions to reduce disease-associated morbidity and mortality. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Although CO2-induced arousal is critical to a number of diseases, the specific mechanism is not well understood. We previously demonstrated that serotonin (5-HT) neurons are important for CO2-induced arousal, as mice without 5-HT neurons do not arouse to CO2. Many have interpreted this to mean that medullary 5-HT neurons that regulate breathing are important in this arousal mechanism. Here we found that direct application of CO2-rich aCSF to the dorsal raphe nucleus, but not the medullary raphe, causes arousal from sleep, and that this arousal was lost with genetic ablation or acute inhibition of 5-HT neurons. We propose that 5-HT neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus can be activated directly by CO2 to cause arousal independently of respiratory activation.
Creep and Long-Term Strength of Molybdenum Alloy

Mechanical behavior of a molybdenum alloy for high-temperature application was investigated at monotonic loading up to fracture, stress-and strain-controlled cyclic loading and short-term creep (less than 9 hours) under the temperatures from 293 to 1773 K using Gleeble-3800 physical simulator. The tests show that plastic strain corresponding to the tensile strength of the material under monotonic loading is small enough (<1%) whereas residual plastic strain after fracture exceeds by 50%. Repeated loading decreases the tensile strength and yield stress, but increases stable (rising) part of stress-strain curve. Increase in the test temperature leads to the change in fracture type from ductile to quasi-brittle distributed at a temperature above 1673 K. Under relatively low temperatures the rheological properties of the material depend strongly on the material processing history. Obtained creep data allows putting up a thermo-activational type equation used to calculate the steady creep rate. Coupling with the known Hoff's model for the creep prefracture stage, this equations allow not only strain rate but also adequate estimation of fracture time.
FITS into practice: translating research into practice in reducing the use of anti-psychotic medication for people with dementia living in care homes

Objectives: This paper reports on the acceptability and effectiveness of the FITS (Focussed Intervention Training and Support) into Practice Programme. This intervention was scaled up from an earlier cluster randomised-controlled trial that had proven successful in significantly decreasing antipsychotic prescribing in care homes. Method: An in depth 10-day education course in person-centred care was delivered over a three-month period, followed by six supervision sessions. Participants were care-home staff designated as Dementia Care Coaches (DCCs) responsible for implementing interventions in 1 or 2 care homes. The course and supervision was provided by educators called Dementia Practice Development Coaches (DPDCs). Effectiveness data included monitoring antipsychotic prescriptions, goal attainment, knowledge, attitudes and implementation questionnaires. Qualitative data included case studies and reflective journals to elucidate issues of implementation. Results: Of the 100 DCCs recruited, 66 DCCs completed the programme. Pre-post questionnaires demonstrated increased knowledge and confidence and improved attitudes to dementia. Twenty per cent of residents were prescribed antipsychotics at baseline which reduced to 14% (31% reduction) with additional dose reductions being reported alongside improved personalised goal attainment. Crucial for FITS into Practice to succeed was the allocation and protection of time for the DCC to attend training and supervision and to carry out implementation tasks in addition to their existing job role. Evaluation data showed that this was a substantial barrier to implementation in a small number of homes. Discussion and conclusions: The FITS into practice programme was well evaluated and resulted in reduction in inappropriate anti-psychotic prescribing. Revisions to the intervention are suggested to maximise successful implementation.
The Effects of Different Wavelength UV Photofunctionalization on Micro-Arc Oxidized Titanium

Many challenges exist in improving early osseointegration, one of the most critical factors in the long-term clinical success of dental implants. Recently, ultraviolet (UV) light-mediated photofunctionalization of titanium as a new potential surface treatment has aroused great interest. This study examines the bioactivity of titanium surfaces treated with UV light of different wavelengths and the underlying associated mechanism. Micro-arc oxidation (MAO) titanium samples were pretreated with UVA light (peak wavelength of 360 nm) or UVC light (peak wavelength of 250 nm) for up to 24 h. UVC treatment promoted the attachment, spread, proliferation and differentiation of MG-63 osteoblast-like cells on the titanium surface, as well as the capacity for apatite formation in simulated body fluid (SBF). These biological influences were not observed after UVA treatment, apart from a weaker effect on apatite formation. The enhanced bioactivity was substantially correlated with the amount of Ti-OH groups, which play an important role in improving the hydrophilicity, along with the removal of hydrocarbons on the titanium surface. Our results showed that both UVA and UVC irradiation altered the chemical properties of the titanium surface without sacrificing its excellent physical characteristics, suggesting that this technology has extensive potential applications and merits further investigation.
Cortical Plasticity Induced by Spike-Triggered Microstimulation in Primate Somatosensory Cortex

Electrical stimulation of the nervous system for therapeutic purposes, such as deep brain stimulation in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, has been used for decades. Recently, increased attention has focused on using microstimulation to restore functions as diverse as somatosensation and memory. However, how microstimulation changes the neural substrate is still not fully understood. Microstimulation may cause cortical changes that could either compete with or complement natural neural processes, and could result in neuroplastic changes rendering the region dysfunctional or even epileptic. As part of our efforts to produce neuroprosthetic devices and to further study the effects of microstimulation on the cortex, we stimulated and recorded from microelectrode arrays in the hand area of the primary somatosensory cortex (area 1) in two awake macaque monkeys. We applied a simple neuroprosthetic microstimulation protocol to a pair of electrodes in the area 1 array, using either random pulses or pulses time-locked to the recorded spiking activity of a reference neuron. This setup was replicated using a computer model of the thalamocortical system, which consisted of 1980 spiking neurons distributed among six cortical layers and two thalamic nuclei. Experimentally, we found that spike-triggered microstimulation induced cortical plasticity, as shown by increased unit-pair mutual information, while random microstimulation did not. In addition, there was an increased response to touch following spike-triggered microstimulation, along with decreased neural variability. The computer model successfully reproduced both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the experimental findings. The physiological findings of this study suggest that even simple microstimulation protocols can be used to increase somatosensory information flow.