Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effects of cardiovascular medications on rate of functional decline in Alzheimer disease.

BACKGROUND Evidence suggests that cardiovascular medications, including statins and antihypertensive medications, may delay cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer dementia (AD). We examined the association of cardiovascular medication use and rate of functional decline in a population-based cohort of individuals with incident AD. METHODS In the Dementia Progression Study of the Cache County Study on Memory, Health, and Aging, 216 individuals with incident AD were identified and followed longitudinally with in-home visits for a mean of 3.0 years and 2.1 follow-up visits. The Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) was completed at each follow-up. Medication use was inventoried during in-home visits. Generalized least-squares random-effects regression was performed with CDR Sum of Boxes (CDR-Sum) as the outcome and cardiovascular medication use as the major predictors. RESULTS CDR-Sum increased an average of 1.69 points annually, indicating a steady decline in functioning. After adjustment for demographic variables and the baseline presence of cardiovascular conditions, use of statins (p = 0.03) and beta-blockers (p = 0.04) was associated with a slower annual rate of increase in CDR-Sum (slower rate of functional decline) of 0.75 and 0.68 points respectively, while diuretic use was associated with a faster rate of increase in CDR-Sum (p = 0.01; 0.96 points annually). Use of calcium-channel blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, digoxin, or nitrates did not affect the rate of functional decline. CONCLUSIONS In this population-based study of individuals with incident AD, use of statins and beta-blockers was associated with delay of functional decline. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and to determine whether treatment with these medications may help delay AD progression.
Exploring Young People’s Views onEmergency Contraceptives

The study sought to ascertain whether respondents know the difference between regular and emergency contraceptives and solicit their views on emergency contraceptives. The participants for this study were 22 undergraduate students of the University of Ghana (15 males and 7 females) between the ages of 18 and 25 years who volunteered to participate in the study. This study is exploratory in nature and gathered qualitative data through semi-structured interviews. The interviews were electronically recorded and transcribed. All the respondents could explain what regular contraceptives are, but only four were able to define what ECs are. Some students do not know the difference between regular and emergency contraceptives. Those students who were not able to define what ECs are knew that they are used for preventing unwanted pregnancies. Respondents had different views on emergency contraceptives; while generally they agreed that it was appropriate to be used to prevent unplanned pregnancies especially due to rape, some believed they were difficult to come by. Respondent’ views about EC suggest that there is still more to be done in educating the youth on EC.
Leadership learning: The praxis of dilemma management

We are exhorted on many fronts to believe that leadership is critical to organisational success yet we know that many leaders fail to resolve the crucial, long-term problems that mitigate effectiveness, especially those that arise in the context of performance appraisal. It is timely to revisit the art of dilemma management which constitutes essential, deep learning for educational leaders. Critiqued as disquieting and perhaps not easily transferable to non-Western settings, such learning involves not only the demands of theoretical understanding but also the determination to change one’s practice. Research in New Zealand reveals that when ‘leadership dilemmas’ can be recognised and when defensiveness can be countered, then skills for double-loop learning can be practiced. This metaknowledge is the cornerstone of self-awareness and self-discipline that underpins the praxis of dilemma management – an approach that simultaneously engages head,
Indications and usefulness of nerve biopsy.

Progress in neurophysiology and neurogenetics as well as previous neuropathological findings have all improved our knowledge of the pathophysiological characteristics of peripheral nerve disorders. 1-3 Thanks to these improvements, the indications of nerve biopsy have decreased during the past decade, making this invasive procedure unnecessary in the vast majority of patients with peripheral neuropathy.
Conceptualizing Schizotypal Ambivalence: Factor Structure and Its Relationships

Abstract Ambivalence is an important facet of pathology that has received limited attention despite its importance in understanding negative emotionality within schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Central to understanding the role of ambivalence in schizophrenia is characterizing its manifestation within schizotypal individuals—those with the purported genetic liability for schizophrenia. The present study used the Schizotypal Ambivalence Scale (SAS) to examine the nature of ambivalence. An exploratory factor analysis of SAS scores revealed three factors: interpersonal, indecision, and contradictory feelings of ambivalence. Group differences in SAS scores were found such that psychometrically defined schizotypal individuals reported higher levels of ambivalence than controls, and different schizotypy traits exhibited different relationships with SAS factors and quality of life. The inclusion of implicit and explicit measures of positive and negative attitudes revealed that individuals with schizotypy might lack insight into their affective experiences as suggested by the incongruence between our explicit and implicit measures of social attitudes. As hypothesized, the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire trait dimensions associated with greater SAS ambivalence and the different trait dimensions of schizotypy showed both common and disparate relationships with the ambivalence factors. The current results support the notion that schizotypal ambivalence is a multifaceted construct that not only is affective but also reflects broader processes that dynamically interact with one another to influence functional outcomes.
Comparison between Simulation‐based Training and Lecture‐based Education in Teaching Situation Awareness. A Randomized Controlled Study

Rationale: Situation awareness has been defined as the perception of the elements in the environment within volumes of time and space, the comprehension of their meaning, and the projection of their status in the near future. Intensivists often make time‐sensitive critical decisions, and loss of situation awareness can lead to errors. It has been shown that simulation‐based training is superior to lecture‐based training for some critical scenarios. Because the methods of training to improve situation awareness have not been well studied in the medical field, we compared the impact of simulation vs. lecture training using the Situation Awareness Global Assessment Technique (SAGAT) score. Objectives: To identify an effective method for teaching situation awareness. Methods: We randomly assigned 17 critical care fellows to simulation vs. lecture training. Training consisted of eight cases on airway management, including topics such as elevated intracranial pressure, difficult airway, arrhythmia, and shock. During the testing scenario, at random times between 4 and 6 minutes into the simulation, the scenario was frozen, and the screens were blanked. Respondents then completed the 28 questions on the SAGAT scale. Sample items were categorized as Perception, Projection, and Comprehension of the situation. Results were analyzed using SPSS Version 21. Results: Eight fellows from the simulation group and nine from the lecture group underwent simulation testing. Sixty‐four SAGAT scores were recorded for the simulation group and 48 scores were recorded for the lecture group. The mean simulation vs. lecture group SAGAT score was 64.3 ± 10.1 (SD) vs. 59.7 ± 10.8 (SD) (P = 0.02). There was also a difference in the median Perception ability between the simulation vs. lecture groups (61.1 vs. 55.5, P = 0.01). There was no difference in the median Projection and Comprehension scores between the two groups (50.0 vs. 50.0, P = 0.92, and 83.3 vs. 83.3, P = 0.27). Conclusions: We found a significant, albeit modest, difference between simulation training and lecture training on the total SAGAT score of situation awareness mainly because of the improvement in perception ability. Simulation may be a superior method of teaching situation awareness.
Simulation and experimental modeling of a multipoles variable capacitor for an electrostatic wind energy harvester

The aim of this work is to study the effect of rotational motion generated by wind on the capacitance variation of the multipole variable capacitor. AutoCAD software was used to model the variable capacitor and to calculate the capacitance variation relative to the angular position caused by wind. Subsequently, experiments were carried out to measure the capacitance variation relative to the angular position and the transient response. Torque analysis was conducted to ensure that the torque applied by wind on a micro-wind turbine could be successfully transferred to the rotary variable capacitor of the harvester. The simulation results indicated a variation of capacitance from 83 pF to 0 pF and the experimental results indicated a variation of capacitance from 110 pF to 39 pF. The torque analysis showed that the torque applied by the wind could successfully rotate the capacitor using a speed-increasing gearbox.
Haemonchus contortus intestine: a prominent source of mucosal antigens

We sought to identify antigens from Haemonchus contortus, an abomasal nematode of small ruminants, that stimulate local (abomasal lymph node, ALN) CD4+ T lymphocyte responses during a primary infection. Results led to a focus on antigens from the parasite intestine. The H. contortus intestine proved to be a major source of antigens that stimulated ALN CD4+, CD25+ T lymphocyte responses during infections in lambs. When stimulated by intestinal antigens, ALN lymphocytes from these lambs expressed IL‐4 and IL‐13 transcripts, and, more variably, IFN‐γ. An immunoaffinity‐purified fraction, enriched for H. contortus apical intestinal membrane proteins, stimulated similar ALN responses. On further fractionation, antigens from six size classes (ranging from 30 to 200 kDa) also stimulated proliferation of ALN lymphocytes. Mass spectrometry analysis of these size classes identified several known apical intestinal membrane proteins from H. contortus. The results show that H. contortus intestinal antigens warrant investigation in strategies to induce mucosal immunity against this parasite. The specific proteins identified have value for this purpose. The results are in contrast with the now generalized idea that H. contortus intestinal antigens are ‘hidden’ from the host immune system, and this issue is discussed. The approach also has potential application to other gastrointestinal nematode parasites.
Modernization and Islamist Conflict

This contribution studies the impact of modernization on the onset of Islamist conflict. To capture the multi-dimensional phenomenon of modernization, we create a unique modernization index. Our empirical analysis for 154 countries for the 1971-2006 period provides robust evidence that modernization rather than economic underdevelopment or a lack of democracy increases the likelihood of the onset of Islamist conflict. This relationship especially matters to Islamist groups that aim at a regime change, i.e., the establishment of an Islamic state, while separatist groups seem to be more strongly affected by minority discrimination. We argue that from a rational-economic point of view the adverse effects of modernization lower the opportunity costs of conflict and raise its benefits. Additionally, an Islamist framing of modernization grievances affects the cost-benefit considerations of potential Islamist militants in ways that make violence even more likely (e.g., by offering spiritual rewards). An Islamist interpretation of modernization grievances furthermore provides Islamist militants with a political objective (the establishment of an Islamic state) to remedy the perceived ills of modernization.
POLITICAL ECONOMY ISSUES OF TAXATION IN LATIN AMERICA

This paper is part of a wider research on “Tax Systems and Tax Reforms in Latin America”, carried on at the Department of Public Economics of the University of Pavia, under the direction of L. Bernardi, A. Barreix, A. Marenzi and P. Profeta, and the supervision of V. Tanzi. The political economy of Latin America is a crucial issue. In the last decades many Latin American countries have experienced a democratic transition, but poor economic performances. In particular, contrary to the predictions of the political economy literature on democracy and economic development, fiscal pressure has remained low, especially income taxes, despite the democratic transition. This puzzling evidence can be reconciled with political theories, if we include the role played by vested interests, financial sector and populist economic policies.
Morphology and Morphometry of the Scutellum of Six Species in the Genus Meccus (Hemiptera: Triatominae)

ABSTRACT: We studied the morphology and morphometry of scutella from six species of the hemipteran genus Meccus to identify new tools to help solve taxonomic problems in closely related insect species of epidemiological relevance. Scutellum samples were observed by scanning electron microscopy and were subjected to morphometric analysis. The results mainly show differences in central depression shape, posterior process, and vestiture. We found significant dimensional differences in scutellum morphometry and a clear sexual dimorphism among species. A combination of morphology and morphometry can be used to differentiate among species of the genus Meccus.
Rabbit, a relevant model for the study of cardiac β3‐adrenoceptors

The β3‐adrenoceptors (β3‐ARs) have been identified and characterized in the human heart. Specific β3‐AR stimulation, unlike β1‐AR or β2‐AR stimulation, decreases cardiac contractility, partly via the Gi–NO pathway. However, the precise role of cardiac β3‐ARs is not yet completely understood. Indeed, under normal conditions, the β3‐AR response is present only to a very low degree in rats and mice. Therefore, we evaluated whether β3‐ARs were present and functional in rabbit ventricular cardiomyocytes, and whether the rabbit could serve as a relevant model for the study of cardiac β3‐ARs. We used RT‐PCR and Western blot to measure the β3‐AR transcripts and protein levels in rabbit ventricular cardiomyocytes. We also analysed the effect of β3‐AR stimulation using isoproterenol in combination with nadolol or SR 58611A on cardiomyocyte shortening, Ca2+ transient, L‐type Ca2+ current (ICa,L), delayed rectifier potassium current (IKs) and action potential duration (APD). For the first time, we show that β3‐ARs are expressed in rabbit ventricular cardiomyocytes. The mRNA and protein sequences present a high homology to those of rat and human β3‐ARs. Furthermore, β3‐AR stimulation decreases cardiomyocyte shortening, Ca2+ transient and ICa,L amplitudes, via a Gi–NO pathway. Importantly, β3‐AR stimulation enhances IKs amplitude and shortens the APD. Taken together, our results indicate that the rabbit provides a relevant model, easily used in laboratories, to study the roles of cardiac β3‐ARs in physiological conditions.
The Social Media Effect on the Families of the Saudi Society from the Perspective of the Youth

i ABSTRACT This social media network (SMN) study regarding youth of Saudi Arabia, focused on the effect of the SMN on youth with their families and their traditions. The significance of this study is to have an understanding of the effect of the SMN on the youths' families. Furthermore, recommendations were given from the perspective of the youth to help improve Saudi Arabian society using SMN. A total of 617 students from University of Dammam, ages from 18-24, have participated in the survey. The results of the survey showed that despite some potential effect of the SMN on the youth and their relations with their families, these are also resilient in many aspects. However, the outcome of involvement with the SMN is obvious on other aspects as well, such as the gained ability of self-decision making and the ability to accept opposing opinions. Moreover, the research findings specific to women indicate that they are more active in the SMNs. The results also demonstrate women gained knowledge of their rights and gained freedom of speech. Finally, the findings led to a conclusion that there is potential social change in the Saudi Arabian society, even though the family structure is not changing significantly. ii For my precious mother. For my wonderful wife. The completion of this work would not have been possible. iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I thank my God for blessing me with this opportunity to study in the United States and arranged wonderful members for my supervisory committee. The efforts they provided me in their classroom and in the private conversations have encouraged me for a better future career. I especially express my grateful acknowledgment to Dr. Mary Jane Parmentier for being my committee chair, for her support, and her guidance during this research. I also thank Dr. Gary Grossman and Dr. Merlyna Lim for being my committee members and for their helpful suggestions and comments they provided me.
The critical mass in collective action

Preface Acknowledgements 1. The critical mass and the problem of collective action 2. Building blocks: goods, groups and processes 3. The paradox of group size 4. The dynamics of production functions 5. Social networks: density, centralization and cliques 6. Selectivity in social networks 7. Reach and selectivity as strategies of recruitment 8. Unfinished business References Name index Subject index.
Activity-Dependent Human Brain Coding/Noncoding Gene Regulatory Networks

While most gene transcription yields RNA transcripts that code for proteins, a sizable proportion of the genome generates RNA transcripts that do not code for proteins, but may have important regulatory functions. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene, a key regulator of neuronal activity, is overlapped by a primate-specific, antisense long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) called BDNFOS. We demonstrate reciprocal patterns of BDNF and BDNFOS transcription in highly active regions of human neocortex removed as a treatment for intractable seizures. A genome-wide analysis of activity-dependent coding and noncoding human transcription using a custom lncRNA microarray identified 1288 differentially expressed lncRNAs, of which 26 had expression profiles that matched activity-dependent coding genes and an additional 8 were adjacent to or overlapping with differentially expressed protein-coding genes. The functions of most of these protein-coding partner genes, such as ARC, include long-term potentiation, synaptic activity, and memory. The nuclear lncRNAs NEAT1, MALAT1, and RPPH1, composing an RNAse P-dependent lncRNA-maturation pathway, were also upregulated. As a means to replicate human neuronal activity, repeated depolarization of SY5Y cells resulted in sustained CREB activation and produced an inverse pattern of BDNF-BDNFOS co-expression that was not achieved with a single depolarization. RNAi-mediated knockdown of BDNFOS in human SY5Y cells increased BDNF expression, suggesting that BDNFOS directly downregulates BDNF. Temporal expression patterns of other lncRNA-messenger RNA pairs validated the effect of chronic neuronal activity on the transcriptome and implied various lncRNA regulatory mechanisms. lncRNAs, some of which are unique to primates, thus appear to have potentially important regulatory roles in activity-dependent human brain plasticity.
Blocking O-Linked GlcNAc Cycling in Drosophila Insulin-producing Cells Perturbs Glucose-Insulin Homeostasis*

A dynamic cycle of O-linked GlcNAc (O-GlcNAc) addition and removal is catalyzed by O-GlcNAc transferase and O-GlcNAcase, respectively, in a process that serves as the final step in a nutrient-driven “hexosamine-signaling pathway. ” Evidence points to a role for O-GlcNAc cycling in diabetes and insulin resistance. We have used Drosophila melanogaster to determine whether O-GlcNAc metabolism plays a role in modulating Drosophila insulin-like peptide (dilp) production and insulin signaling. We employed transgenesis to either overexpress or knock down Drosophila Ogt(sxc) and Oga in insulin-producing cells (IPCs) or fat bodies using the GAL4-UAS system. Knockdown of Ogt decreased Dilp2, Dilp3, and Dilp5 production, with reduced body size and decreased phosphorylation of Akt in vivo. In contrast, knockdown of Oga increased Dilp2, Dilp3, and Dilp5 production, increased body size, and enhanced phosphorylation of Akt in vivo. However, knockdown of either Ogt(sxc) or Oga in the IPCs increased the hemolymph carbohydrate concentration. Furthermore, phosphorylation of Akt stimulated by extraneous insulin in an ex vivo cultured fat body of third instar larvae was diminished in strains subjected to IPC knockdown of Ogt or Oga. Knockdown of O-GlcNAc cycling enzymes in the fat body dramatically reduced neutral lipid stores. These results demonstrate that altered O-GlcNAc cycling in Drosophila IPCs modulates insulin production and influences the insulin responsiveness of peripheral tissues. The observed phenotypes in O-GlcNAc cycling mimic pancreatic β-cell dysfunction and glucose toxicity related to sustained hyperglycemia in mammals.
Surrounding Larger Neighbors and the Atlantic Coast Cardinal Neighbor Gradient

Cardinal place theory concerns the identification and analysis of a family of closely related geometric patterns that cities and other population centers form when they are linked together into large networks according to certain mathematical rules. One such network is the surrounding larger neighbor system. Another is the cardinal neighbor gradient, where cities are linked with their nearest larger neighboring cities to form systems of larger and smaller places. Using a series of computer programs it was possible to identify these networks along the Atlantic Coast and to record their patterns on maps. These maps show that since 1950 the Atlantic Coast cardinal neighbor gradient has been expanding steadily outward.
Immunochemical determination of cellular prion proteinin plasma from healthy subjects and patients withsporadic CJD or other neurologic diseases

BACKGROUND: Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease is thought to be caused by conversion of cellular prion protein (PrP) from its soluble form (PrPsen) to a pathologic form (PrPres). The occurrence of a new variant of CJD has increased the demand for a rapid assay capable of detecting a theoretical risk of transmission of the disease by blood or plasma.
Staggered Adjustment and Trade Dynamics ∗ ( preliminary and incomplete )

We allow for the possibility that consumers are slow to adjust on the extensive margin by adding one new parameter to a Ricardian model of international trade. This extension provides a simple and parsimonious way to capture the low elasticity of trade to relative cost in the short run (as needed in open-economy macro models), together with the high elasticity in the long run (as needed trade models). We use the model to assess, at different horizons, how the global economy adjusts to rebalancing trade. ∗We have benefited from the comments of Lukasz Drozd and the research assistance of Daisuke Fujii and Sebastian Sotelo. †Yale University and NBER ‡Pennsylvania State University and NBER §Yale University and NBER