Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The quest for safer antithrombotic treatment regimens in patients with coronary artery disease: new strategies and paradigm shifts

ABSTRACT Introduction: Despite the undeniable benefits on reducing ischemic adverse events, antiplatelet regimens including dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and P2Y12 receptor inhibitors are associated with an increased risk of bleeding. The awareness of the unfavorable prognostic implications associated with bleeding complications have somewhat hampered the enthusiasm towards the use of more potent antiplatelet treatment regimens or prolonged use of DAPT. This awareness also has prompted a series of investigations geared towards the identification of antithrombotic treatment regimens which are efficacious at reducing ischemic recurrences while also safe in terms of bleeding risk profile. Areas covered: The present manuscript focuses on new approaches for improving the safety profile of antithrombotic treatment regimens, including most recent updates from clinical trials, as well as future perspectives in the field. Expert commentary: Results of ongoing trials testing new antithrombotic treatment regimens, including new drugs, new combinations, which may be used for different duration of time according to the individual’s risk of thrombotic and bleeding complications, may lead to paradigm shifts in secondary prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with coronary artery disease.
Animal versus plant protein meals in individuals with type 2 diabetes and microalbuminuria: effects on renal, glycemic, and lipid parameters.

OBJECTIVE To determine, for individuals with type 2 diabetes and microalbuminuria, the effects of 6 weeks of meals containing plant-based protein (PP) versus meals with predominantly animal-based protein (AP) on renal function and secondarily on glycemia, lipid levels, and blood pressure. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS In a randomized crossover trial, we compared 6 weeks of meals containing only PP with meals containing primarily AP (60% animal, 40% plant) in 17 subjects with type 2 diabetes and microalbuminuria treated with diet and/or oral antidiabetic agents. Protein content was equivalent to the average American diet, and calories provided weight maintenance. Nutrients were equivalent between the two diets. Meals were prepared and packaged by a metabolic kitchen staff and were sent home weekly. At the beginning and end of each 6-week period, subjects were studied for 36 h on a metabolic unit. RESULTS There were no significant differences between diets for glomerular filtration rate, renal plasma flow, albumin excretion rate, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglyceride area under the curve (AUC), glucose and insulin AUC, HbA(1c,) blood pressure, or serum amino acids. For both diets, at the end of the treatment periods as compared with baseline, total cholesterol was significantly lower (PP and AP: from 4.75 to 4.34 mmol/l, P < 0.01), HbA(1c) had significantly improved (PP: from 8.1 to 7.5%, P < 0.01; AP: from 7.9 to 7.4%, P < 0.01), and diastolic blood pressure was significantly lower (PP: from 83 to 80 mmHg, P < 0.02; AP: from 82 to 78, P < 0.02). CONCLUSIONS There is no clear advantage for the recommendation of diets containing only PP rather than diets containing protein that is primarily animal-based for individuals with type 2 diabetes and microalbuminuria. There are, however, potential lipid, glycemic, and blood pressure benefits for following a carefully constructed, weight-maintaining, healthy diet, regardless of protein source.
Diurnal variations in axial length, choroidal thickness, intraocular pressure, and ocular biometrics.

PURPOSE To investigate the pattern of diurnal variations in axial length (AL), choroidal thickness, intraocular pressure (IOP), and ocular biometrics over 2 consecutive days. METHODS Measurements of ocular biometrics and IOP were collected for 30 young adult subjects (15 myopes, 15 emmetropes) at 10 different times over 2 consecutive days. Five sets of measurements were collected each day at approximately 3-hour intervals, with the first measurement taken at ~9 AM and final measurement at ~9 PM. RESULTS AL underwent significant diurnal variation (P < 0.0001) that was consistently observed across the 2 measurement days. The longest AL was typically observed at the second measurement session (mean time, 12:26) and the shortest AL at the final session of each day (mean time, 21:06). The mean diurnal change in AL was 0.032 ± 0.018 mm. Choroidal thickness underwent significant diurnal variation (mean change, 0.029 ± 0.016 mm; P < 0.001) and varied approximately in antiphase to the AL changes. Significant diurnal variations were also found in vitreous chamber depth (VCD; mean change, 0.06 ± 0.029 mm; P < 0.0001) and IOP (mean change, 3.54 ± 0.84 mm Hg; P < 0.0001). A positive association was found between the variations of AL and IOP (r(2) = 0.17, P < 0.0001) and AL and VCD (r(2) = 0.31, P < 0.0001) and a negative association between AL and choroidal thickness (r(2) = 0.13, P < 0.0001). There were no significant differences in the magnitude and timing of diurnal variations associated with refractive error. CONCLUSIONS Significant diurnal variations in AL, choroidal thickness, and IOP were consistently observed over 2 consecutive days of testing.
highlighted topics Exercise Effects on Muscle Insulin Signaling and Action Invited Review: Intracellular signaling in contracting skeletal muscle

Invited Review: Intracel- lular signaling in contracting skeletal muscle. J Appl Physiol 93: 369–383, 2002; 10.1152/japplphysiol.00167. 2002. —Physical exercise is a signiﬁcant stimulus for the regulation of multiple metabolic and transcriptional processes in skeletal muscle. For example, exercise increases skeletal muscle glucose uptake, and, after exercise, there are increases in the rates of both glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis. A single bout of exercise can also induce transient changes in skeletal muscle gene transcription and can alter rates of protein metabolism, both of which may be mechanisms for chronic adaptations to repeated bouts of exercise. A central issue in exercise biology is to elucidate the underlying molecular signaling mechanisms that regulate these important metabolic and transcriptional events in skeletal muscle. In this review, we summarize research from the past several years that has demonstrated that physical exercise can regulate multiple intracellular signaling cas- cades in skeletal muscle. It is now well established that physical exercise or muscle contractile activity can activate three of the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways, including the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2, the c-Jun NH 2 -terminal kinase, and the p38. Exercise can also robustly increase activity of the AMP-activated protein kinase, as well as several additional molecules, including glycogen syn- thase kinase 3, Akt, and the p70 S6 kinase. A fundamental goal of signaling research is to determine the biological consequences of exer- cise-induced signaling through these molecules, and this review also provides an update of progress in this area.
Modulation of viability and maturation of human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells by oncolytic adenoviruses

Adenoviral oncolysis is a promising new modality for treatment of cancer based on selective viral replication in tumor cells. However, tumor cell killing by adenoviral oncolysis needs to be improved to achieve therapeutic benefit in the clinic. Towards this end, the activation of anti‐tumor immunity by adenoviral oncolysis might constitute a potent mechanism for systemic killing of uninfected tumor cells, thereby effectively complementing direct tumor cell killing by the virus. Knowledge of anti‐tumor immune induction by adenoviral oncolysis, however, is lacking mostly due to species‐specificity of adenovirus replication, which has hampered studies of human oncolytic adenoviruses in animals. We suggest the analysis of interactions of oncolytic adenoviruses with human immune cells as rational basis for the implementation of adenoviral oncolysis‐induced anti‐tumor immune activation. The goal of our study was to investigate how oncolytic adenoviruses affect human dendritic cells (DCs), key regulators of innate and adoptive immunity that are widely investigated as tumor vaccines. We report that melanoma‐directed oncolytic adenoviruses, like replication‐deficient adenoviruses but unlike adenoviruses with unrestricted replication potential, are not toxic to monocyte‐derived immature DCs and do not block DC maturation by external stimuli. Of note, this is in contrast to reports for other viruses/viral vectors and represents a prerequisite for anti‐tumor immune activation by adenoviral oncolysis. Furthermore, we show that these oncolytic adenoviruses alone do not or only partially induce DC maturation. Thus additional signals are required for optimal immune activation. These could be delivered, for example, by inserting immunoregulatory transgenes into the oncolytic adenovirus genome. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Conidiophore and spore development in Aspergillus nidulans.

SUMMARY: Conidiophore development was studied in wild-type and structurally defective mutants of Aspergillus nidulans. Cytoplasmic vesicles were found concentrated at growing apices. Plasmalemmasomes occurred frequently in the subapical and basal cytoplasm of growing sterigmata and near their developing septa; after septum formation they were flattened against the septa and the wall of the older cell and were associated with lomasomes. At this stage the wall developed a superficial lamina; the basipetally budding spore chain was invested from its initiation by a continuation of this lamina. The lamina was also associated with a dense network in the medium around the basal mycelium. The inner, secondary wall of the conidiophore became more electron-lucent with age; the continuity between this wall and the single wall of the sterigmata suggested this structure to be the site of action of the bristle locus. Pigmentation of wild-type and mutant conidiophores was associated with an electron-dense modification of the outer, primary wall. Stratification of the spore wall was indicated only by the similar development of a layer of electron-dense material. Cytoplasmic microfilaments were observed in all parts of the colony.
A relação entre renda e composição domiciliar dos idosos no Brasil: um estudo sobre o impacto do recebimento do Benefício de Prestação Continuada

This paper analyzes the impact of income for the elderly from the Continuous Cash Benefit Transfer Program (BPC) on the living arrangements of elderly poor persons. This benefit consists of income received monthly, equivalent to one minimum wage, by elderly persons over age 65 whose monthly per capita family income is below one-fourth of the minimum wage. This discussion is relevant in the current Brazilian context, which has been marked by rapid population aging, broad changes in living arrangements and an expansion of social security benefits for the elderly. Two hypothesis discussed in the literature were investigated, using the difference-in-difference statistical method and based on data from the 2002 and 2004 PNADs. It was seen that this unconditional income transfer would either (i) increase the probability of the elderly persons involved to live independently, or (ii) increase the probability of co-residence with family due to the attraction exerted by this additional income. The results obtained show that the receiving of the BPC income increases the probability that beneficiaries will tend to seek independents living arrangements.
Homocysteine levels, paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity, and cardiovascular risk.

lyzed our study population by dividing the births within each gestational age category into smaller and larger birth weights by their z score of birth weight by gestational age. Adjusting for gestational week within each category as well as year of birth, larger infants did have the best survival for any given gestational age. For 22 to 27, 28 to 32, 33 to 36, and 37 to 42 weeks, the relative risks of mortality were 0.39 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.30-0.49), 0.45 (95% CI, 0.40-0.50), 0.40 (95% CI, 0.36-0.46), and 0.53 (95% CI, 0.50-0.55), respectively. We agree that predisposing genetic factors contribute to prematurity as well as subsequent reproductive potential; this is an important area for future investigation. A twin-pair study would be ideal for examining genetic contributions while controlling for potential environmental confounders. Furthermore, comparisons between twin sibships would be useful for examining contributors to birth weight, given that twin siblings have identical gestational age at birth. We limited our study population to singleton births given the strong association and potential confounding effect between multiple gestation and preterm birth. Furthermore, compelling twin-pair studies require known zygosity (identical vs fraternal twinning) based on ultrasound confirmation, genetic confirmation, or self-reported zygosity based on resemblance. Further analyses to disentangle the relative contributions of birth weight and length of gestation to long-term health outcomes, including twin-pair studies, are essential to improving the understanding of the fetal origins of adult disease.
Quad-Active-Bridge Single-Stage Bidirectional Three-Phase AC–DC Converter With Isolation: Introduction and Optimized Modulation

This paper introduces the quad-active-bridge (QAB) ac–dc converter, which provides isolation and bidirectional power flow in a single-stage topology. While matrix-based topologies commonly use bipolar voltage switches, the proposed solution allows the use of unipolar voltage switches. Compared to a six-switch inverter, the average voltage stress is reduced by a factor of 2. A modulation scheme is derived for this converter, which is analytically optimized toward minimum conduction losses to improve the conversion efficiency. The modulation scheme consists of closed-form algebraic solutions such that no lookup tables are required for implementation. Considerations for the converter design and the main component selection procedures are given. The proposed topology and modulation strategy is implemented in a 20-kW prototype. Measurements are conducted and show that the methods operate as expected. Experimental results show that the load step is stable, the power factor is close to unity, and the phase current total harmonic distortion is less than 5%. Finally, it is shown that the circulating current can be controlled independent of the output power. The methods and tools provided can be used for the design and analysis of ac–dc power converters based on the QAB topology.
Determination of Split Renal Function Using Dynamic CT-Angiography: Preliminary Results

Objectives To determine the feasibility of a dynamic CT angiography-protocol with regard to simultaneous assessment of renal anatomy and function. Methods 7 healthy potential kidney donors (58±7 years) underwent a dynamic computed tomography angiography (CTA) using a 128-slice CT-scanner with continuous bi-directional table movement, allowing the coverage of a scan range of 18 cm within 1.75 sec. Twelve scans of the kidneys (n = 14) were acquired every 3.5 seconds with the aim to simultaneously obtain CTA and renal function data. Image quality was assessed quantitatively (HU-measurements) and qualitatively (grade 1–4, 1 = best). The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was calculated by a modified Patlak method and compared with the split renal function obtained with renal scintigraphy. Results Mean maximum attenuation was 464±58 HU, 435±48 HU and 277±29 HU in the aorta, renal arteries, and renal veins, respectively. The abdominal aorta and all renal vessels were depicted excellently (grade 1.0). The image quality score for cortex differentiation was 1.6±0.49, for the renal parenchyma 2.4±0.49. GFR obtained from dynamic CTA correlated well with renal scintigraphy with a correlation coefficient of r = 0.84; P = 0.0002 (n = 14). The average absolute deviation was 1.6 mL/min. The average effective dose was 8.96 mSv. Conclusion Comprehensive assessment of renal anatomy and function is feasible using a single dynamic CT angiography examination. The proposed protocol may help to improve management in case of asymmetric kidney function as well as to simplify evaluation of potential living kidney donors.
Increased mortality risk among offspring of mothers with postnatal depression: a nationwide population-based study in Taiwan

Background There is compelling evidence that children of mothers with postnatal depression (PD) experience poor developmental outcomes. However, no studies have specifically ascertained the risk of mortality for offspring during preschool years, the most catastrophic outcome in the vulnerable period. This nationwide population-based study aimed to investigate whether maternal depression in the first year after giving birth was associated with increased mortality risk among their preschool children aged up to 5 years. Method Three nationwide population-based datasets [the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD), birth certificate registry and death certificate registry] were linked in this study. A total of 10 236 offspring of mothers with PD were recruited, together with a comparison cohort of 81 888 births matched with the affected women in terms of maternal age and year of delivery. Each child was traced for 5 years from delivery between 2001 and 2003 until the end of 2008 to determine mortality during preschool years. Results During preschool years, 98 (0.96%) deaths were identified among the offspring of mothers with PD and 470 (0.57%) children in the comparison cohort died. For children up to 5 years old, exposure to maternal PD was independently associated with a 1.47-fold [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.16–1.87] increased mortality risk, after adjusting for family income, urbanization level and the characteristics of mother, father and infant. The risk of death by unnatural causes was even higher (about 2.23 times the risk, 95% CI 1.34–3.70) among exposed offspring. Conclusions PD places preschool children at significantly increased risk of mortality, especially from unnatural causes of death.
The Effects of Children's Age and Sex on Acquiring Pro-Environmental Attitudes Through Environmental Education

Environmental education programs aiming to enhance children's environmental attitudes in a pro-environmental direction require background information, such as age and sex differences, to ensure appropriate design. We used the 2-MEV model with its domains preservation and utilization of nature to assess a four-day program at an educational field center with students 9–10 and 11–13 years of age. A pre- and post-retention test design revealed younger students to be more responsive concerning positive attitude shifts than older students, whereas the sexes were equally influenced. Program developers should consider that education has a stronger effect on young children's environmental attitudes.
Comments on BEQ’s Twentieth Anniversary Forum on New Directions for Business Ethics Research

In 2010, Business Ethics Quarterly published ten articles that considered the potential contributions to business ethics research arising from recent scholarship in a variety of philosophical and social scientific fields (strategic management, political philosophy, restorative justice, international business, legal studies, ethical theory, ethical leadership studies, organization theory, marketing, and corporate governance and finance). Here we offer short responses to those articles by members of Business Ethics Quarterly's editorial board and editorial team.
Cross-National Differences in Special Education Coverage

This study investigated the role of educational and socioeconomic factors in explaining differences in national special education coverage. Data were derived from several international and governmental sources, targeting the year 2008 and covering 143 countries. Descriptive statistics revealed huge disparities in access to special education among countries. Using a theoretical model linking socioeconomic and educational variables to differences in how many students receive special education at a national level and structural equation modeling, the authors evaluated the relationships among the variables. The structural equation model showed that gross national income per capita, adult literacy rate, educational variables, and expected years of formal schooling accounted for 77.3% of the variance in special education coverage, and that the contributions of gross national income per capita and adult literacy were unique and significantly important. The implications for special education and inclusion policy and research are discussed.
Evaluation of the metabolism and hepatotoxicity of xenobiotics utilizing precision-cut slices

1. Precision-cut liver slices are a valuable in vitro model system to study the metabolism and toxicity of xenobiotics. Liver slices retain tissue architecture so that all cell types are present and intercellular communication between the various cell types is retained. 2. Precision-cut liver slices from humans and other species have been used to study pathways of phase I (e.g. cytochrome P450-dependent biotransformations) and II (e.g. conjugation with D-glucuronic acid, sulphate and glutathione) metabolism of a wide range of xenobiotics. 3. Liver slices can also be employed to investigate the induction and inhibition of xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes and to obtain kinetic data on the rates of metabolism of xenobiotics. 4. Precision-cut liver slices from humans and other species have been used to study the toxicity of a wide variety of xenobiotics. Toxicity can be assessed by various techniques including gene expression, morphological examination and a wide range of biochemical endpoints. 5. Precision-cut liver slices can be utilized to examine species differences in hepatic xenobiotic metabolism and xenobiotic-induced toxicity, thus permitting comparisons between animal species and humans.
Bicameralism, nationality and party cohesion in the European Parliament

Party cohesion in legislatures is a topic of longstanding concern to political scientists because cohesion facilitates democratic representation. We examine the cohesion of transnational party groups in the European Parliament, which is part of the EU’s bicameral system, and study the oftentimes competing pressures to which MEPs are subject from their EP party groups and national governments. Our explanation focuses on the conditions under which MEPs take policy positions that differ from those of their party groups. We propose that national governments lobby their national MEPs more intensely on issues of high national salience and on which they are in a weak bargaining position in the Council. The analyses offer a unique approach to the study of party cohesion that is based on the policy positions taken by each national delegation of MEPs in each of the three main party groups and national governments on specific controversial issues.