Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Validation of a peak endocardial acceleration-based algorithm to optimize cardiac resynchronization: early clinical results

Aims Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) involves time-consuming procedures to achieve an optimal programming of the system, at implant as well as during follow-up, when remodelling occurs. A device equipped with an implantable sensor able to measure peak endocardial acceleration (PEA) has been recently developed to monitor cardiac function and to guide CRT programming. During scanning of the atrioventricular delay (AVD), PEA reflects both left ventricle (LV) contractility (LV dP/dtmax) and transmitral flow. A new CRT optimization algorithm, based on recording of PEA (PEAarea method) was developed, and compared with measurements of LV dP/dtmax, to identify an optimal CRT configuration. Methods and results We studied 15 patients in New York Heart Association classes II–IV and with a QRS duration >130 ms, who had undergone implantation of a biventricular (BiV) pulse generator connected to a right ventricular (RV) PEA sensor. At a mean of 39 ± 15 days after implantation of the CRT system, the patients underwent cardiac catheterization. During single-chamber LV or during BiV stimulation, with initial RV or LV stimulation, and at settings of interventricular intervals between 0 and 40 ms, the AVD was scanned between 60 and 220 ms, while LV dP/dtmax and PEA were measured. The area of PEA curve (PEAarea method) was estimated as the average of PEA values measured during AVD scanning. A ≥10% increase in LV dP/dtmax was observed in 12 of 15 patients (80%), who were classified as responders to CRT. In nine of 12 responders (75%), the optimal pacing configuration identified by the PEAarea method was associated with the greatest LV dP/dtmax. Conclusion The concordance of the PEAarea method with measurements of LV dP/dtmax suggests that this new, operator-independent algorithm is a reliable means of CRT optimization.
Dietary Polyphenols as Modulators of Brain Functions: Biological Actions and Molecular Mechanisms Underpinning Their Beneficial Effects

Accumulating evidence suggests that diet and lifestyle can play an important role in delaying the onset or halting the progression of age-related health disorders and to improve cognitive function. In particular, polyphenols have been reported to exert their neuroprotective actions through the potential to protect neurons against injury induced by neurotoxins, an ability to suppress neuroinflammation, and the potential to promote memory, learning, and cognitive function. Despite significant advances in our understanding of the biology of polyphenols, they are still mistakenly regarded as simply acting as antioxidants. However, recent evidence suggests that their beneficial effects involve decreases in oxidative/inflammatory stress signaling, increases in protective signaling and neurohormetic effects leading to the expression of genes that encode antioxidant enzymes, phase-2 enzymes, neurotrophic factors, and cytoprotective proteins. Specific examples of such pathways include the sirtuin-FoxO pathway, the NF-κB pathway, and the Nrf-2/ARE pathway. Together, these processes act to maintain brain homeostasis and play important roles in neuronal stress adaptation and thus polyphenols have the potential to prevent the progression of neurodegenerative pathologies.
Vitamin E and nicotinamide have similar effects in maintaining residual beta cell function in recent onset insulin-dependent diabetes (the IMDIAB IV study)

OBJECTIVE Protection of residual beta cell function at the time of diagnosis of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) by intensive insulin therapy and the addition of nicotinamide (NA) has been established. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a free oxygen radical scavenger such as vitamin E (Vit E) on residual beta cell function and parameters of metabolic control in patients with recent onset IDDM undergoing intensive insulin therapy. DESIGN The effect of Vit E was compared with that of NA (control group) in a randomized multicentre trial. METHODS Eighty-four IDDM patients between 5 and 35 years of age (mean age 15.8 +/- 8.4 (s.d.) years) entered a one year prospective study. One group of patients (n = 42) was treated with Vit E (15 mg/kg body weight/day) for one year; the other group (n = 42) received NA for one year (25 mg/kg body weight/day). All patients were under intensive insulin therapy with three to four injections a day. Basal and stimulated (1 mg i.v. glucagon) C-peptide secretion, glycosylated haemoglobin and insulin dose were evaluated at diagnosis and at three-monthly intervals up to one year. RESULTS Preservation and slight increase of C-peptide levels at one year compared with diagnosis were obtained in the two treated patient groups. No statistically significant differences were observed in basal or stimulated C-peptide levels between the two groups of patients for up to one year after diagnosis. Glycosylated haemoglobin and insulin dose were also similar between the two groups; however patients receiving Vit E under the age of 15 years required significantly more insulin than NA-treated patients one year after diagnosis (P < 0.04). CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that Vit E and NA possess similar effects in protecting residual beta cell function in patients with recent onset IDDM. Since their putative mechanism of protection on beta cell cytotoxicity is different, combination of these two vitamins may be envisaged for future trials of intervention at IDDM onset.
and Ahmed populations associated with higher intakes of sugars in two distinct Genetic variant in the glucose transporter type 2 is

populations associated with higher intakes of sugars in two distinct Genetic variant in the glucose transporter type 2 is You might find this additional info useful. 24 times a year (twice monthly) by the American Physiological Society, 9650 Rockville Pike, Bethesda MD systems with techniques linking genes and pathways to physiology, from prokaryotes to eukaryotes. It is published publishes results of a wide variety of studies from human and from informative model Physiological Genomics
The global gas and dust budget of the Large Magellanic Cloud: AGB stars and supernovae, and the impact on the ISM evolution

We report on an analysis of the gas and dust budget in the the interstellar medium (ISM) of the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC). Recent observations from the Spitzer Space Telescope enable us to study the mid-infrared dust excess of asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars in the LMC. This is the first time we can quantitatively assess the gas and dust input from AGB stars over a complete galaxy, fully based on observations. The integrated mass-loss rate over all intermediate and high mass-loss rate carbon-rich AGB candidates in the LMC is 8.5 × 10 −3 M⊙ yr −1 , up to 2.1 × 10 −2 M⊙ yr −1 . This number could be increased up to 2.7×10 −2 M⊙ yr −1 if oxygen-rich stars are included. This is overall consistent with theoretical expectations, considering the star formation rate when these low- and intermediate-mass stars where formed, and the initial mass functions. AGB stars are one of the most important gas sources in the LMC, with supernovae (SNe), which produces about 2–4×10 −2 M⊙ yr −1 . At the moment, the star formation rate exceeds the gas feedback from AGB stars and SNe in the LMC, and the current star formation depends on gas already present in the ISM. This suggests that as the gas in the ISM is exhausted, the star formation rate will eventually decline in the LMC, unless gas is supplied externally. Our estimates suggest ‘a missing dust-mass problem’ in the LMC, which is similarly found in high-z galaxies: the accumulated dust mass from AGB stars and possibly SNe over the dust life time (400–800Myrs) is significant less than the dust mass in the ISM. Another dust source is required, possibly related to star-forming regions.
Prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease in a country with a high occurrence of Helicobacter pylori

AIM To evaluate the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with additional symptoms, relationship with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) of this country-wide study. METHODS Data from 3214 adults were obtained with validated questionnaire. Eight hundred and forty-one subjects were randomized to be tested for H. pylori via the urea breath test. "Frequent symptoms" were defined heartburn and/or regurgitation occurring at least weekly. RESULTS The prevalence of GERD was 22.8%, frequent and occasional heartburn were 9.3%-12.7%, regurgitation were 16.6%-18.7%, respectively. Body mass index (BMI) ≤ 18.5 showed a prevalence of 15%, BMI > 30 was 28.5%. The GERD prevalence was higher in women (26.2%) than men (18.9%) (P < 0001). Overall prevalence of H. pylori was 75.7%. The prevalence was 77.1% in subjects without symptoms vs 71.4% in subjects with GERD (χ2 = 2.6, P = 0.27). Underprivileged with the lowest income people exhibit a higher risk. CONCLUSION GERD is common in Turkey which reflects both Western and Eastern lifestyles with high rate of H. pylori. The presence of H. pylori had no effect on either the prevalence or the symptom profile of GERD. Subjects showing classical symptoms occasionally exhibit more additional symptoms compared with those without classical symptoms.
Aggressive and impulsive behavior in Alzheimer’s disease and progression of dementia

Summary Background The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are numerous, including worsening of mood, psychotic symptoms, aggressive and impulsive behaviours, and many others. It is generally assumed that there exists a relationship between the severity of dementia and aggressive symptoms. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between aggressive and impulsive behaviours and cognitive function disorders in AD patients. Material/Methods Forty-eight AD patients living in a nursing home were included in the research group on the basis of NINCDS/ADRDA criteria. The subjects underwent two years of naturalistic observation. The intensity of agitation and aggressive behaviours was assessed on the basis of the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI). The Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale Cog (ADAS-cog) was used to assess cognitive function. Pharmacotherapy administered during the observation period was also taken into account. Results Thirty-one patients completed the two year long observation. Individuals with more severe cognitive deficiencies demonstrated a greater intensity of aggressive and impulsive behaviours, as assessed using the CMAI scale. Aggression escalated together with the development of dementia disorders. The intensity of dementia disorders was most significantly connected with physical agitation and verbal aggression. The use of neuroleptics and mood stabilisers decreased the progression of aggressive and impulsive behaviours. Conclusions There is a relationship between cognitive functioning disorders and the intensification of aggressive and impulsive behaviours. More severe forms of dementia are connected with greater intensification of aggressive and impulsive behaviours as the disease progresses. Periodical administration of pharmacotherapy may reduce the development of aggressive behaviours.
The Effects of Administration and Response Modes on Grade 1–2 Students’ Writing Performance

This study aimed to investigate how Grade 1–2 English language learners (ELLs) differ in their performance on a writing test in two test modes: paper and online. Participants were 139 ELLs in the United States. They completed three writing tasks, representing three test modes: (1) a paper in which students completed their writing using a paper-and-pencil format, (2) online-handwriting in which students viewed the prompt online and handwrote responses, and (3) online-keyboarding in which learners viewed the prompt online and keyboarded responses. Up to 20 students were tested during each 90-minute session, during which researchers observed two or three students to examine any differences in their writing behaviors across tasks. Immediately after students completed the tasks, researchers asked them about their preferred test modes. Students’ writings were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively in terms of task completion, fluency, and complexity. Interview data were analyzed qualitatively. Findings suggest the handwriting task is the optimal mode for students in Grades 1–2. Yet the majority of ELLs observed said they preferred the keyboarding task over the handwriting tasks. Study results provide practical implications for writing test administration for K–12 ELLs. doi: 10.1002/tesq.495
Children with low working memory and children with ADHD: same or different?

The purpose of this study was to compare working memory (WM), executive function, academic ability, and problem classroom behaviors in children aged 8–11 years who were either identified via routine screening as having low WM, or had been diagnosed with ADHD. Standardized assessments of WM, executive function and reading and mathematics were administered to 83 children with ADHD, 50 children with low WM and 50 typically developing children. Teachers rated problem behaviors on checklists measuring attention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, oppositional behavior, and difficulties associated with executive function in the classroom. The ADHD and low WM groups had highly similar WM and executive function profiles, but were distinguished in two key respects: children with ADHD had higher levels of rated and observed impulsive behavior, and children with low WM had slower response times. Possible mechanisms for these common and distinct deficits are discussed.
The American Heart Association Life's Simple 7 and Incident Cognitive Impairment: The REasons for Geographic And Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) Study

Background Life's Simple 7 is a new metric based on modifiable health behaviors and factors that the American Heart Association uses to promote improvements to cardiovascular health (CVH). We hypothesized that better Life's Simple 7 scores are associated with lower incidence of cognitive impairment. Methods and Results For this prospective cohort study, we included REasons for Geographic And Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) participants aged 45+ who had normal global cognitive status at baseline and no history of stroke (N=17 761). We calculated baseline Life's Simple 7 score (range, 0 to 14) based on smoking, diet, physical activity, body mass index, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and fasting glucose. We identified incident cognitive impairment using a 3‐test measure of verbal learning, memory, and fluency obtained a mean of 4 years after baseline. Relative to the lowest tertile of Life's Simple 7 score (0 to 6 points), odds ratios of incident cognitive impairment were 0.65 (0.52, 0.81) in the middle tertile (7 to 8 points) and 0.63 (0.51, 0.79) in the highest tertile (9 to 14 points). The association was similar in blacks and whites, as well as outside and within the Southeastern stroke belt region of the United States. Conclusions Compared with low CVH, intermediate and high CVH were both associated with substantially lower incidence of cognitive impairment. We did not observe a dose‐response pattern; people with intermediate and high levels of CVH had similar incidence of cognitive impairment. This suggests that even when high CVH is not achieved, intermediate levels of CVH are preferable to low CVH.
JAK2 inhibitor TG101348 overcomes erlotinib-resistance in non-small cell lung carcinoma cells with mutated EGF receptor

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations are responsive to EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI). However, NSCLC patients with secondary somatic EGFR mutations are resistant to EGFR-TKI treatment. In this study, we investigated the effect of TG101348 (a JAK2 inhibitor) on the tumor growth of erlotinib-resistant NSCLC cells. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, gene expression and tumor growth were evaluated by diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, flow cytometry, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase biotin-dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining, Western Blot and a xenograft mouse model, respectively. Results showed that erlotinib had a stronger impact on the induction of apoptosis in erlotinib-sensitive PC-9 cells but had a weaker effect on erlotinib-resistant H1975 and H1650 cells than TG101348. TG101348 significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity of erlotinib to erlotinib-resistant NSCLC cells, stimulated erlotinib-induced apoptosis and downregulated the expressions of EGFR, p-EGFR, p-STAT3, Bcl-xL and survivin in erlotinib-resistant NSCLC cells. Moreover, the combined treatment of TG101348 and erlotinib induced apoptosis, inhibited the activation of p-EGFR and p-STAT3, and inhibited tumor growth of erlotinib-resistant NSCLC cells in vivo. Our results indicate that TG101348 is a potential adjuvant for NSCLC patients during erlotinib treatment.
Plasma ghrelin levels in children with cystic fibrosis and healthy children

Introduction Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a common genetic disorder as a result of mutation in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator gene. Weight loss in CF patients seems to be multifactorial and metabolic factors, inflammation, recurrent infections and poor appetite are possible candidates. Ghrelin affects energy hemostasis by stimulating growth hormone secretion, glucose and lipid metabolism alteration and inhibition of the inflammatory system. Data on the role of ghrelin in energy deficiency in CF patients are sparse and controversial. The study was done to compare the plasma levels of the acylated form of ghrelin in CF patients with healthy participants. Material and methods Thirty cystic fibrosis patients (aged 1-168 months) and thirty healthy matched participants were enrolled in the study. Plasma ghrelin and albumin levels were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated as well. Results Plasma levels of acylated ghrelin in CF patients were significantly higher than the control group (mean 25-75%: 14.5 vs. 2.7, p = 0.032). Body mass index measurements in CF patients were significantly lower than the control group (p < 0.001). Using regression analysis there was no statistically significant correlation between plasma ghrelin levels and serum albumin, weight, height or BMI values in CF patients and controls. Conclusions The acylated ghrelin levels are increased in CF. So plasma levels of acylated ghrelin could be used as an indicator of food uptake and energy balance in them. Further studies should be established to find out the exact role of factors affecting energy metabolism.
Cement Based Foam Concrete Reinforced by Carbon Nanotubes

The main task of the presented research was to investigate the carbon nanotubes, synthesized from aromatic hydrocarbons and as well as to investigate the possibilities of production and main technological properties of Portland cement based foam concrete reinforced by dispersed carbon nanotubes. The method of stimulation of dehydropolycondensation and carbonization of aromatic hydrocarbons in chemical active environment (melts of aluminium, copper, nickel, iron salts) was used for carbon nanotubes synthesis. The results of investigation of the synthesized carbon nanotubes by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed that they contain (80 – 90) % of carbon. The examination of the carbon nanotubes microstructure by electron microscope have shown that the nanotubes have a cylindric form, with diameter ranging up to 100 nm and length up to 20 μm. The nanotubes are agglomerated to fiber shaped agglomerates with a diameter up to 30 μm and a length up to 10 mm. The carbon nanotubes were used as a high strength dispersed reinforcement for production of foam non-autoclave concrete produced on the base of Portland cement. The results of the investigation of the reinforced non-autoclave cemente foam concrete showed that the use of carbon nanotubes (0.05 % by mass) in production of these concretes allows to decrease its heat conductivity up to (12 – 20) % and increase its compressive strength up to 70 %.
The Australia Telescope Compact Array Broadband Backend (CABB): Description & First Results ⋆

Here we describe the Compact Array Broadband Backend (CABB) and present first results obtained with the upgraded Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA). The 16-fold increase in observing bandwidth, from 2×128 MHz to 2×2048 MHz, high bit sampling, and addition of 16 zoom windows (each divided into a further 2048 channels) provide major improvements for all ATCA observations. The benefits of the new system are: (1) hugely increased radio continuum and polarization sensitivity as well as image fidelity, (2) substantially improved capability to search for and map emission and absorption lines over large velocity ranges, (3) simultaneous multi-line and continuum observations, (4) increased sensitivity, survey speed and dynamic range due to high-bit sampling, and (5) high velocity resolution, while maintaining full polarization output. The new CABB system encourages all observers to make use of both spectral line and continuum data to achieve their full potential. Given the dramatic increase of the ATCA capabilities in all bands (ranging from 1.1 to 105 GHz) CABB enables scientific projects that were not feasible before the upgrade, such as simultaneous observations of multiple spectral lines, on-the-fly mapping, fast follow-up of radio transients (e.g., the radio afterglow of new supernovae) and maser observations at high velocity resolution and full polarization. The first science results presented here include wide-band spectra, high dynamic-range images, and polarization measurements, highlighting the increased capability and discovery potential of the ATCA.
Evaluation of Autoantibodies in Patients with Primary and Secondary Sjogren’s Syndrome

Background: Antibodies to salivary gland protein 1 (SP1), carbonic anhydrase 6 (CA6) and parotid secretory protein (PSP) were discovered in an animal model of Sjogren’s syndrome (SS). Their expression was noted in patients with SS, especially those with lower focus scores on lip biopsies and those with early disease lacking antibodies to Ro and La. Objective: The current studies evaluated these autoantibodies in patients with long-standing SS expressing high levels of anti-Ro antibodies and in patients with Sjogren’s syndrome secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis (SSc) and mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD). Method: Sera were obtained from patients and evaluated by ELISA for IgG, IgA and IgM antibodies to SP1, CA6 and PSP. Results: IgA anti-CA6 antibodies were noted in 38% of these patients, but anti-SP1, CA6 and PSP IgM or IgG antibodies were identified only in a minority of patients. In patients with secondary SS, antibodies to SP1/CA6/PSP were more sensitive and specific than anti-Ro . Conclusion: While more studies are needed, antibodies to SP1, CA6 and PSP provide valuable markers for the diagnosis of primary and secondary SS, especially early in the course of the disease.
Age Specific Dioxin TEQ Reference Range

Worldwide public concern of the toxicity of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and Dibenzofurans (PCDFs) has catalyzed extensive research in many toxicologically related areas. However, to date there have been no large-scale studies that have statistically been able to describe the overall dioxin reference levels of the U.S. population. Nor has there been significant information on background levels of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD), which has been called the most toxic of the dioxin compounds and contributes the most to the dioxin toxicity equivalent (TEQ).