Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The impact of data revisions on the robustness of growth determinants—a note on ‘determinants of economic growth: Will data tell?’

Ciccone and Jarocinski (2010) show that inference in Bayesian model averaging (BMA) can be highly sensitive to small changes in the dependent variable. In particular they demonstrate that the importance of growth determinants in explaining growth varies tremendously over different revisions of Penn World Table (PWT) income data. They conclude that ’agnostic’ priors appear too sensible for this strand of growth empirics. In response, we show that the instability found owes much to a specific BMA set-up: the variation in results can be considerably reduced by applying an evenly ’agnostic’, but flexible prior.
COPS5 (Jab1) Protein Increases β Site Processing of Amyloid Precursor Protein and Amyloid β Peptide Generation by Stabilizing RanBP9 Protein Levels*

Background: Increased generation of toxic amyloid β peptide (Aβ) in the brain is central to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Results: COPS5 (Jab1) is a novel RanBP9-interacting protein that robustly increases Aβ generation Conclusion: COPS5 increases Aβ generation by stabilizing RanBP9 protein levels. Significance: Lowering COPS5 levels may be an effective therapeutic approach for AD. Increased processing of amyloid precursor protein (APP) and accumulation of neurotoxic amyloid β peptide (Aβ) in the brain is central to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Therefore, the identification of molecules that regulate Aβ generation is crucial for future therapeutic approaches for AD. We demonstrated previously that RanBP9 regulates Aβ generation in a number of cell lines and primary neuronal cultures by forming tripartite protein complexes with APP, low-density lipoprotein-related protein, and BACE1, consequently leading to increased amyloid plaque burden in the brain. RanBP9 is a scaffold protein that exists and functions in multiprotein complexes. To identify other proteins that may bind RanBP9 and regulate Aβ levels, we used a two-hybrid analysis against a human brain cDNA library and identified COPS5 as a novel RanBP9-interacting protein. This interaction was confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation experiments in both neuronal and non-neuronal cells and mouse brain. Colocalization of COPS5 and RanBP9 in the same subcellular compartments further supported the interaction of both proteins. Furthermore, like RanBP9, COPS5 robustly increased Aβ generation, followed by increased soluble APP-β (sAPP-β) and decreased soluble-APP-α (sAPP-α) levels. Most importantly, down-regulation of COPS5 by siRNAs reduced Aβ generation, implying that endogenous COPS5 regulates Aβ generation. Finally, COPS5 levels were increased significantly in AD brains and APΔE9 transgenic mice, and overexpression of COPS5 strongly increased RanBP9 protein levels by increasing its half-life. Taken together, these results suggest that COPS5 increases Aβ generation by increasing RanBP9 levels. Thus, COPS5 is a novel RanBP9-binding protein that increases APP processing and Aβ generation by stabilizing RanBP9 protein levels.
The First Human Settlement of Europe

The question concerning the place of origin of humankind was widely debated for decades. Since it has been established that this was in Africa, much current research is focused on the age of the settlement of Eurasia. This work reviews three hypotheses concerning the age of the occupation of Europe. These hypotheses may be termed "Young," "Mature," and "Old" Europe, according to which systematic settlement took place either less than 500,000 years ago, somewhat before 0.78 mya (million years ago), or before 1.5 mya, respectively. The arguments for and weaknesses of each hypothesis are discussed, and the "Mature Europe" hypothesis is argued to be supported by the strongest current evidence.
Dietary potassium and laxatives as regulators of colonic potassium secretion in end-stage renal disease.

BACKGROUND In end-stage renal disease (ESRD), colonic potassium (K+) secretion increases as renal K+ excretion declines. The nature of this adaptive process is poorly understood, but post-prandial increases in plasma K+ concentration may be a determining factor. In addition, even though colonic K+ secretion increases in ESRD, interdialytic hyperkalaemia is a serious problem in haemodialysis patients, which might be reduced by stimulating colonic K+ secretion still further using laxatives. METHODS Plasma K+ concentrations were measured in the fasting state, and for 180 min after the oral administration of 30 mmol of K+ to nine control subjects and 16 normokalaemic patients with ESRD (eight "predialysis" patients and eight patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD)). Plasma K+ concentrations were also monitored for 180 min in fasting controls and ESRD patients who were not given the oral K+ load. To study the effect of laxatives on interdialytic hyperkalaemia, plasma K+ concentrations were measured in eight control subjects and 13 haemodialysis patients before and during 2 weeks treatment with bisacodyl (a cAMP-mediated laxative) and in five haemodialysis patients before and during 2 weeks treatment with lactulose (an osmotic laxative). RESULTS Oral K+ loading caused plasma K+ concentration to rise within the normal range (3.5-5.1 mmol/l) in control subjects, while significantly higher concentrations were achieved in the "predialysis" patients and sustained hyperkalaemia developed in the CAPD patients. Bisacodyl treatment had no effect on plasma K+ concentrations in control subjects, but significantly decreased the mean interdialytic plasma K+ concentration (from 5.9+/-0.2 to 5.5+/-0.2 mmol/l, P<0.0005) in haemodialysis patients, whereas plasma K+ concentration did not change during lactulose treatment. CONCLUSIONS Higher plasma K+ concentrations after food may help to maintain K+ homeostasis in ESRD by enhancing colonic K+ secretion. Bisacodyl may be useful for reducing interdialytic hyperkalaemia in patients undergoing haemodialysis.
Predicting ecological regime shift under climate change: New modelling techniques and potential of molecular-based approaches

Ecological regime shift is the rapid transition from one stable community structure to another, often ecologically infe- rior, stable community. Such regime shifts are especially common in shallow marine communities, such as the transition of kelp forests to algal turfs that harbour far lower biodiversity. Stable regimes in communities are a result of balanced interactions be- tween species, and predicting new regimes therefore requires an evaluation of new species interactions, as well as the resilience of the 'stable' position. While computational optimisation techniques can predict new potential regimes, predicting the most likely community state of the various options produced is currently educated guess work. In this study we integrate a stable regime op- timisation approach with a Bayesian network used to infer prior knowledge of the likely stress of climate change (or, in practice, any other disturbance) on each component species of a representative rocky shore community model. Combining the results, by calculating the product of the match between resilient computational predictions and the posterior probabilities of the Bayesian network, gives a refined set of model predictors, and demonstrates the use of the process in determining community changes, as might occur through processes such as climate change. To inform Bayesian priors, we conduct a review of molecular approaches applied to the analysis of the transcriptome of rocky shore organisms, and show how such an approach could be linked to meas- ureable stress variables in the field. Hence species-specific microarrays could be designed as biomarkers of in situ stress, and used to inform predictive modelling approaches such as those described here (Current Zoology 59 (3): 403-417, 2013).
Differential effect of sleep deprivation on the two slow wave sleep stages in the cat.

The effect of total sleep deprivation on the sleep stages and their interrelations was studied in 10 cats. EEG, EMG and eye movements were recorded for 24 h after 12 h and 24 h sleep deprivation and after no sleep deprivation. Sleep was divided into three stages: Light slow wave sleep (LSWS), deep slow wave sleep (DSWS) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. The total quantities of DSWS and REM sleep in the 24 h recordings increased with deprivation, as did the relative proportion (per cent of total sleep) of these sleep stages. The total quantity of LSWS did not change with sleep deprivation, and the LSWS per cent of total sleep decreased. The changes were most pronounced after 24 h deprivation and in the first hours of recovery sleep. Sleep deprivation reduced LSWS episode length and tended to increase DSWS and REM sleep episode length. The number of sleep cycles was increased, but the length of each cycle was not altered. The results support earlier findings of a functional dissociation between LSWS and DSWS and a functional relationship between DSWS and REM sleep.
Lack of Cytogenetic Abnormalities in Castleman's Disease*

Background. Castleman's disease (CD) is a distinctive type of atypical lymph node hyperplasia that is often clonal. In a previously reported series of CD, clonal populations of plasma cells were detected by immunohistology in 4 of 39 cases (10%, [H9261] restricted), and immunoglobulin gene rearrangements were detected by paraffin polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis in 10 of 37 cases (27%). Cytogenetic analysis has been used to detect clonal proliferations of plasma cells in myeloma and clonal proliferations of lymphocytes in lymphomas and has identified critical gene loci that are important in the histopathogenesis of these disorders. Cytogenetic studies have not been done on a large series of patients with CD. Thus, we reviewed the archives of our institution for cases of CD and lymphoma that had had cytogenetic analysis. Methods. The cytogenetic and lymphoma archives of our institution (a tertiary care center) from 1985 to 1998 were reviewed for the diagnoses of CD and lymphoma. There were 21,006 lymphomas, 701 of which had cytogenetic analysis (400 abnormal). There were 162 cases of CD, 7 of which had cytogenetic analysis. The frequency of cytogenetic abnormalities in CD was compared with that in lymphoma. The sensitivity of cytogenetics for defining clonality in CD was compared with immunohistology and paraffin PCR-amplified immunoglobulin heavy-chain gene rearrangement. Results. From 1985 to 1998, 162 cases of CD and 21,006 cases of lymphoma were diagnosed. Cytogenetic analysis yielded adequate numbers of metaphases for analysis of 4 cases of CD and 701 lymphomas. Cytogenetic abnormalities were not identified in CD but were identified in 400 lymphomas (57%). Although 1 of 4 cases of CD was clonal by immunohistology ([H9261] restricted), no immunoglobulin gene rearrangements were detected by paraffin PCR analysis. Conclusions. The frequency of cytogenetic abnormalities in lymphomas and the lack of cytogenetic abnormalities in CD suggest that cytogenetic abnormalities, as detected by conventional cytogenetic analysis, are important in the pathogenesis of lymphoma but not CD. The lack of cytogenetic abnormalities in CD supports the hypothesis that CD is an interleukin-6–driven lymphoproliferative disorder.
Radio resource allocation for energy consumption minimization in multi-homed wireless networks

In this paper, we present a resource allocation algorithm for energy consumption minimization in multi-homed wireless networks, simultaneously connecting to different wireless interfaces. Specifically, we first formulate a general problem related to minimization of energy consumption while satisfying minimum rate requirements. Then, we solve the problem by relaxing integer value constraints and applying Lagrangian Lagrangian dualityduality. For a given set of dual variables, we derive optimal resource allocation policies by using an efficient dual update method. Numerical results reveal that the optimal allocation algorithm outperforms the existing resource allocation algorithms for homogeneous networks in terms of the energy consumption reduction as well as energy efficiency of the overall network.
Arabidopsis LHT1 Is a High-Affinity Transporter for Cellular Amino Acid Uptake in Both Root Epidermis and Leaf Mesophyll[W]

Amino acid transport in plants is mediated by at least two large families of plasma membrane transporters. Arabidopsis thaliana, a nonmycorrhizal species, is able to grow on media containing amino acids as the sole nitrogen source. Arabidopsis amino acid permease (AAP) subfamily genes are preferentially expressed in the vascular tissue, suggesting roles in long-distance transport between organs. We show that the broad-specificity, high-affinity amino acid transporter LYSINE HISTIDINE TRANSPORTER1 (LHT1), an AAP homolog, is expressed in both the rhizodermis and mesophyll of Arabidopsis. Seedlings deficient in LHT1 cannot use Glu or Asp as sole nitrogen sources because of the severe inhibition of amino acid uptake from the medium, and uptake of amino acids into mesophyll protoplasts is inhibited. Interestingly, lht1 mutants, which show growth defects on fertilized soil, can be rescued when LHT1 is reexpressed in green tissue. These findings are consistent with two major LHT1 functions: uptake in roots and supply of leaf mesophyll with xylem-derived amino acids. The capacity for amino acid uptake, and thus nitrogen use efficiency under limited inorganic N supply, is increased severalfold by LHT1 overexpression. These results suggest that LHT1 overexpression may improve the N efficiency of plant growth under limiting nitrogen, and the mutant analyses may enhance our understanding of N cycling in plants.
Attitudes of pharmacy students toward mental illness.

Undergraduate pharmacy students' attitudes toward mental illness were measured by a questionnaire that also included questions about students' demographic variables and previous exposure to mental illness. Baccalaureate pharmacy students entering their first week of clinical rotations were asked to voluntarily complete a questionnaire that included Whatley's social distance scale and Morrison's Client Attitude Questionnaire version B (CAQ-B). Information was also sought about demographics, socio-economic factors, and prior exposure to mental illness. Possible total scores for Whatley's social distance scale range from 8 to 24, with lower scores implying more favorable attitudes toward mentally ill patients. Possible total scores for the CAQ-B range from 20 to 60, with scores lower than 40 indicative of a medical-model orientation and scores higher than 46 indicative of a psychosocial-model orientation. A total of 250 students completed the questionnaire. The first 85 students received Morrison's CAQ-B; the other 165 students completed both scales. The mean +/- S.D. score of 13.6 +/- 3.5 on the social distance scale indicates that the pharmacy students generally had favorable attitudes towards patients with mental illness. The mean +/- S.D. score of 32.8 +/- 3.6 on the CAQ-B indicates that the pharmacy students accepted a medical-model orientation. Students reporting a family history of psychiatric diagnoses and hospitalizations, a personal psychiatric diagnosis, or a history of visiting a psychiatric hospital had more favorable attitudes toward mentally ill patients. Female students and students who had a family history of psychiatric hospitalizations and diagnoses were significantly more oriented toward the medical model than students without this history. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Statistical modelling of wildfire size and intensity: a step toward meteorological forecasting of summer extreme fire risk

Abstract. In this article we investigate the use of statistical methods for wildfire risk assessment in the Mediterranean Basin using three meteorological covariates, the 2 m temperature anomaly, the 10 m wind speed and the January–June rainfall occurrence anomaly. We focus on two remotely sensed characteristic fire variables, the burnt area (BA) and the fire radiative power (FRP), which are good proxies for fire size and intensity respectively. Using the fire data we determine an adequate parametric distribution function which fits best the logarithm of BA and FRP. We reconstruct the conditional density function of both variables with respect to the chosen meteorological covariates. These conditional density functions for the size and intensity of a single event give information on fire risk and can be used for the estimation of conditional probabilities of exceeding certain thresholds. By analysing these probabilities we find two fire risk regimes different from each other at the 90 % confidence level: a "background" summer fire risk regime and an "extreme" additional fire risk regime, which corresponds to higher probability of occurrence of larger fire size or intensity associated with specific weather conditions. Such a statistical approach may be the ground for a future fire risk alert system.
Group I Paks Promote Skeletal Myoblast Differentiation In Vivo and In Vitro

ABSTRACT Skeletal myogenesis is regulated by signal transduction, but the factors and mechanisms involved are not well understood. The group I Paks Pak1 and Pak2 are related protein kinases and direct effectors of Cdc42 and Rac1. Group I Paks are ubiquitously expressed and specifically required for myoblast fusion in Drosophila. We report that both Pak1 and Pak2 are activated during mammalian myoblast differentiation. One pathway of activation is initiated by N-cadherin ligation and involves the cadherin coreceptor Cdo with its downstream effector, Cdc42. Individual genetic deletion of Pak1 and Pak2 in mice has no overt effect on skeletal muscle development or regeneration. However, combined muscle-specific deletion of Pak1 and Pak2 results in reduced muscle mass and a higher proportion of myofibers with a smaller cross-sectional area. This phenotype is exacerbated after repair to acute injury. Furthermore, primary myoblasts lacking Pak1 and Pak2 display delayed expression of myogenic differentiation markers and myotube formation. These results identify Pak1 and Pak2 as redundant regulators of myoblast differentiation in vitro and in vivo and as components of the promyogenic Ncad/Cdo/Cdc42 signaling pathway.
The post‐prandial state and cardiovascular disease: relevance to diabetes mellitus

There is increasing evidence that the post‐prandial state is an important contributing factor to the development of atherosclerosis. In non‐diabetic subjects the atherosclerotic risk factors comprised in the categories of lipids, coagulation system and endothelial function may be adversely modified in the post‐prandial phase. The generation of an oxidative stress may be the common pathway through which eating may induce these alterations. In diabetic patients these phenomena may be amplified by post‐prandial hyperglycemia. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of a stannous fluoride-impregnated dental floss on in vivo salivary fluoride levels.

PURPOSE The aim of this in vivo pilot study was to determine the concentration of fluoride retained intra-orally in saliva after flossing with dental floss impregnated with stannous fluoride (SnF(2)). METHODS Participants flossed their teeth ad libitum with 2 premeasured lengths of fluoridated dental floss. Expectorated saliva samples were collected in vials before flossing (PF), immediately postflossing(IPF), at 30 minutes (30), and 1 hour (60) after flossing for analysis with a fluoride-specific electrode and an Orion millivoltmeter. Postflossing samples were compared to the preflossing samples using ANOVA and Tukey's HSD. RESULTS Differences between the PF and IPF group means were found to be statistically significant at p<0.01. No other significant differences were found between or among any of the groups. Salivary fluoride levels at 60 minutes (60) were similar to those prior to flossing (PF). CONCLUSIONS It can be concluded that fluoride can be released from flossing with the tested SnF(2)-impregnated dental floss elevating salivary fluoride levels for at least 30 minutes. Use of this fluoride-containing dental floss offers an option for delivery of fluoride to individuals at risk for dental caries.
The diagnosis of molar pregnancy by sonography and gross morphology

BACKGROUND In modern times molar pregnancies are often terminated before classical symptoms have developed. Sonography may not be conclusive and gross macroscopy may not reveal vesicles. If the aborted material is not sent for microscopy adequate follow-up of these patients will not be performed. The objective of this study was to evaluate the percentage of molar cases that potentially will be missed in a setting where material is submitted for histopathology only when sonography and/or gross macroscopy suggest complete- or partial hydatidiform mole. METHODS Charts from 135 patients with complete hydatidiform mole (75) and partial hydatidiform mole (60) between 1989 1997 were evaluated. RESULTS In complete hydatidiform mole sonography had been performed in 68 patients. The correct diagnosis had been suspected in 84% of the cases with the aid of sonography and/or gross macroscopy. In partial hydatidiform mole the correct diagnosis was suspected in only 30% of the cases. Three patients with complete mole developed persistent disease despite negative sonography and/or gross macroscopy. One patient with partial mole that was only documented by microscopy also developed sequelae. CONCLUSION In a setting where material from curettages in early pathological pregnancies are not routinely sent for histopathology 16% and 70% of complete- and partial hydatidiform moles respectively will be missed. Since a subset of these 'discrete' moles will eventually require chemotherapy, this policy could have serious consequences.
EFFECT OF PARAFUNCTIONAL FORCE ON DENTAL IMPLANT TREATMENT IN BRUXISM: A CASE REPORT (TWO YEAR RESULTS)

An implant fracture may be one of the major causes of implant failures. The probable cause of the implant fracture was due to biomechanical overload caused by bruxism. Bruxism (teeth grinding and clenching) is generally considered a contraindication for dental implants. So far, in the dental literature, the possible cause-and-effect relationship between bruxism and implant failure do not yield consistent and specific outcomes. This is partly because of the large variation in the literature in terms of both the technical aspects and the biological aspects of the study material. Although there is still no proof for the suggestion that bruxism causes an overload of dental implants and of their suprastructures, a careful approach is recommended. This case report illustrates the importance of an extensive clinical examination and accurately occlusal arrangements of oral implant patients for the presence of severe bruxism for two year results.