Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cerebellopontine Angle Cisternal Infusion of NGF, BDNF and NT-3: Effects on Cochlear Neurons Disconnected from Central Target, Cochlear Nucleus: An in vivo quantitative study

Cochlear neurons need their synaptic contacts with both their peripheral (organ of Corti) and central (cochlear nucleus) targets for survival. We examined the in vivo effectiveness of the neurotrophins (NGF, BDNF and NT-3) on cochlear neuronal survival using our in vivo model, in which the central connection alone was selectively and quantitatively interrupted. The particular neurotrophins evaluated in the present study did not appear to have cochlear nerve rescue potential. However, the experimental model reported here can serve as a useful tool to investigate cochlear neuronal degeneration from the central side, which may lead to identification of effective mediators in the future.
Natural Rubber Latex Allergy: Implications for the Orthodontist

Natural rubber latex (NRL) allergy can have potentially serious consequences, and reports of orthodontic patients reacting to NRL have increased significantly over recent years. It is therefore important for the orthodontist to know how to manage patients with an NRL allergy and how to deal with possible reactions to NRL. Safe and effective practice depends on recognizing patients who are at risk of NRL allergy, and an awareness of materials and equipment that contain NRL and the availability of suitable NRL-free alternatives.
The Amelogenin C-Terminus Is Required for Enamel Development

The abundant amelogenin proteins are responsible for generating proper enamel thickness and structure, and most amelogenins include a conserved hydrophilic C-terminus. To evaluate the importance of the C-terminus, we generated transgenic mice that express an amelogenin lacking the C-terminal 13 amino acids (CTRNC). MicroCT analysis of TgCTRNC29 teeth (low transgene number) indicated that molar enamel density was similar to that of wild-type mice, but TgCTRNC18 molar enamel (high transgene number) was deficient, indicating that extra transgene copies were associated with a more severe phenotype. When amelogenin-null (KO) and TgCTRNC transgenic mice were mated, density and volume of molar enamel from TgCTRNCKO offspring were not different from those of KO mice, indicating that neither TgCTRNC18 nor TgCTRNC29 rescued enamel’s physical characteristics. Because transgenic full-length amelogenin partially rescues both density and volume of KO molar enamel, it was concluded that the amelogenin C-terminus is essential for proper enamel density, volume, and organization.
Strategic Behavior and Social Optimization in Markovian Vacation Queues

We consider a single server queueing system in which service shuts down when there are no customers present and is resumed only when the queue length reaches a given critical length. We analyze the strategic response of customers to this mechanism and compare it to the overall optimal behavior, with and without information on delay. The results are significantly different from those obtained when the server is continuously available. We show that there may exist multiple equilibria in such a system and the optimal arrival rate may be greater or smaller than that of the decentralized equilibrium. Finally, the critical length is taken as a decision variable, and the optimal operations policy is discussed by taking strategic customers into consideration.
Xenopus Embryonic Spinal Neurons Express Potassium Channel Kvβ Subunits

Developmental regulation of voltage-dependent delayed rectifier potassium current (IKv) ofXenopus primary spinal neurons regulates the waveform of the action potential. IKv undergoes a tripling in density and acceleration of it activation kinetics during the initial day of its appearance. Another voltage-dependent potassium current, the A current, is acquired during the subsequent day and contributes to further shortening of the impulse duration. To decipher the molecular mechanisms underlying this functional differentiation, we are identifying potassium channel genes expressed in the embryonic amphibian nervous system. Potassium channels consist of pore-forming (α) as well as auxiliary (β) subunits. Here, we report the primary sequence, developmental localization, and functional properties of twoXenopus Kvβ genes. On the basis of primary sequence, one of these (xKvβ2) is highly conserved with Kvβ2 genes identified in other species, whereas the other (xKvβ4) appears to identify a new member of the Kvβ family. Both are expressed in developing spinal neurons during the period of impulse maturation but in different neuronal populations. In a heterologous system, coexpression of xKvβ subunits modulates properties of potassium current that are developmentally regulated in the endogenousIKv. Consistent with xKvβ4's unique primary sequence, the repertoire of functional effects it has on coexpressed Kv1α subunits is novel. Taken together, the results implicate auxiliary subunits in regulation of potassium current function and action potential waveforms in subpopulations of embryonic primary spinal neurons.
Cultural versus biological inheritance: phenotypic transmission from parents to children. (A theory of the effect of parental phenotypes on children's phenotypes).

The foundations of biometrical genetics were first laid in a famous paper by R. A. Fisher [1]. Since that time a considerable amount of literature has accumulated, the book by Mather and Jinks [2] being the most recent summary. In most treatments, the mode of transmission of nonbiological contributions to the phenotype has not been specified in detail. An interesting exception is an analysis of adoption studies and IQ by S. Wright in 1931 [3], in which a direct inheritance of "environmental factors" over 1 generation has been postulated and found (by path coefficient analysis) to be of some magnitude. When the parents' phenotypes affect the phenotype of their children directly, a new mode of inheritance arises which operates side by side with strictly biological inheritance (through the DNA) and may be difficult to distinguish from it. This transmission is entirely phenotypic. Under certain conditions its importance relative to purely biological inheritance is not negligible, and justifies its theoretical investigation. Such a mode of inheritance bypasses DNA and will be more relevant for those characters which develop through a learning process. Parents' participation in teaching is especially important in the earlier years of development, perhaps more so in the less developed areas of the world, and those traits that are learned during the first period of life are more likely to show phenotypic transmission from parent to child. Clearly, effects of this kind are more likely to exist for traits where "cultural" transmission is of importance. In general terms, cultural transmission occurs when parents and other members of the group may influence a child's behavior. A preliminary analysis of the consequences of cultural effects of members of the group,
Electric Conduction Phenomena and Carrier Mobility Behavior in Dielectric Fluids

Electric conduction phenomena and carrier mobilitybehavior in mineral base electrical insulating oiland various kinds of synthetic base dielectric fluidshave been investigated in the low voltage region andhave been compared with our results in these fluidscontaining various kinds of oil-soluble impurities.It was shown that the impurities bring about someionic conduction in the fluids, and that the carriermobilities of the fluids containing the impuritiesnot necessarily seem to be governed by Walden's rule,depending on the types of the fluids and the impurities.In contrast, the fluids with industrial puritiesobey the rule. Furthermore, it was suggestedthat an electric conduction mechanism in the fluidscontaining the impurities seems to be closely relatedto a carrier mobility mechanism in these fluids.Thus, it appears advisable that the electricalbehavior of the artificial impurities dissolved in thedielectric fluids should be dealt with apart fromthat of the natural impurities.
Tomato : a model species for fruit growth and development studies

Because of its specific biochemical and molecular properties and nutrient importance, tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is an established model to study fruit growth and development. This review paper addresses several aspects of tomato fruit growth and development including its specific phases, control by water regime, cell wall enzymes, plant hormones and metabolic processes.
A comparative study of electrocardiographic QRS complex in asymptomatic obese young adults

Background: Standard 12-lead ECG is widely used initial screening test for non-invasive detection of cardiovascular changes in obesity. It is seen that obesity is associated with leftward shift of the P wave, QRS and T wave axis, various changes in the P wave morphology, and low QRS voltage, which remain asymptomatic and hence undiagnosed for a longer period of time. Objectives: To study and compare the QRS axis (in degrees), QRS duration (in seconds) and QRS amplitude (in mV) in asymptomatic obese young adults and apparently healthy normal subjects. Material and Methods: Asymptomatic obese 150 young adults in the age group of 18 – 39 years with BMI ≥ 30 kg/mas study subjects, age and sex matched 150 healthy individuals with BMI <22 kg/m were taken as controls from the general population. The weight in kilograms and height in meters was measured and Body Mass Index (BMI), Body Surface Area (BSA) and WaistHip Ratio (WHR) were calculated using standard methods. A 12-lead ECG was taken after 10 minutes of rest. Data was expressed in terms of mean ± SD. Unpaired ‘t’-test was done to study the difference in QRS complex. Results: Mean QRS axis (in degrees) in study subjects was 38.9±33.6 vs 56.5±33.4 in controls and was statistically significant. QRS duration (in seconds) in study subjects was 0.09 ± 0.01 vs 0.08±0.01 in controls and was statistically significant. QRS amplitude was increased in cases but was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Our results suggest that obese individuals, being asymptomatic, have higher anthropometric values and abnormal QRS complex, which needs a regular check to reduce the chances of their manifestation, at a future date.
Moments of joy and delight: the meaning of traditional food in dementia care.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To learn about the meaning of traditional food to institutionalised patients with dementia. BACKGROUND Traditional food strengthens the feelings of belonging, identity and heritage, which help persons with dementia to hold on to and reinforce their cultural identity and quality of life. Taste is more cultural than physiological. Dietary habits are established early in life and may be difficult to change. Being served unfamiliar dishes may lead to disappointment and a feeling of being betrayed and unloved. DESIGN AND METHOD The three studies presented have a qualitative design. In-depth interviews of family members and nurses experienced in dementia care were conducted in South Africa and among ethnic Norwegians and the Sami in Norway. Content-focused analysis, hermeneutic in character, was used to enable the exploration of the thoughts, feelings and cultural meaning described. RESULTS Traditional foods created a feeling of belonging and joy. Familiar tastes and smells awoke pleasant memories in patients and boosted their sense of well-being, identity and belonging, even producing words in those who usually did not speak. CONCLUSIONS In persons with dementia, dishes remembered from their childhood may help maintain and strengthen cultural identity, create joy and increase patients' feeling of belonging, being respected and cared for. Traditional food furthermore improves patients' appetite, nutritional intake and quality of life. To serve traditional meals in nursing homes demands extra planning and resources, traditional knowledge, creativity and knowledge of patients' personal tastes. RELEVANCE FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE This study provides insight into culture-sensitive dietary needs of institutionalised patients with dementia. The cultural significance of food for feeling contentment and social and physical well-being is discussed. Besides helping to avoid undernutrition, being served traditional dishes may be very important to reminiscence, joy, thriving and quality of life.
Analysis of Gate-Induced Drain Leakage Mechanisms in Silicon-Germanium Channel pFET

Silicon-germanium is an alternative channel material for pMOS FETs at 32-nm node and beyond because of lower threshold voltage and higher channel mobility in high-k metal gate technology. However, gate-induced drain leakage (GIDL) is a major concern at low power technology nodes because of band-to-band and trap-assisted tunneling (TAT) due to reduced bandgap. Here, we have studied the GIDL dependence on temperature as well as drain and substrate bias. Experimental results and Technology computer-aided design (TCAD) simulations suggest that the mechanism responsible for GIDL during off state is mostly phonon-assisted band-to-band tunneling (BTBT) in the top SiGe layer near the drain surface and is further contributed by BTBT at the drain sidewall junction. Other GIDL mechanisms such as TAT at the extension/sidewall dominate for other drain, gate, and substrate bias voltages.
[Application of PCR combined with reverse line blot assay in detection and identification of common pathogenic Aspergillus in fungal sinusitis].

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the feasibility of PCR/reverse line blot hybridization (RLB) assay in the detection and identification of clinical pathogens in fungal sinusitis (FS). METHODS Twenty-six formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues and 8 fresh tissues of FS were collected from Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University from May 2009 to February 2010. Pathological examination, fungal culture and ITS2 region sequencing were carried out. The DNA of all samples was extracted by standard procedure and fungal universal primers ITS3 and ITS4 were used for PCR amplification of all tissues. Then the amplified products were used for RLB with five fungal species-specific probes. The results of PCR/RLB were compared with ITS region sequencing, fungal culture and pathological examination. RESULTS For the biopsy tissues, fungal cultures were positive in 14 cases (41.2%); pathologic examination demonstrated fungal hyphae in all cases; ITS2 region sequencing was successful in 16 cases (47.1%); PCR/RLB showed A. flavus in 14 cases, A. fumigatus in 10 cases, A. niger in four cases, A. nidulans in one case, A. flavus and A. fumigatus in three cases, and A. fumigatus and A. niger in two cases. CONCLUSIONS The PCR/RLB assay is suitable for rapid and accurate detection and identification of the pathogenic fungus of FS. Compared with the conventional fungal culture and microscopy, pathologic examination and DNA sequencing, the PCR/RLB has the advantages of more economy, time saving, and higher sensitivity, specificity and throughput.
Growth hormone stimulates insulin‐like growth factor I actions on adult articular chondrocytes

We report effects of adding insulin‐like growth factor I (IGF‐I) and methionyl human growth hormone (GH), alone or in combination, to adult bovine articular chondrocytes plated at high density. Purified human and synthetic IGF‐I stimulated chondrocyte DNA and proteoglycan synthesis. GH had no effect on either process. However, GH added in combination with IGF‐I increased proteoglycan, cell‐associated proteoglycan, and keratan sulfate synthesis over levels observed with IGF‐I alone. IGF‐I and GH did not alter the hydrodynamic size of proteoglycans or synthesis of collagen. Our results show that GH and IGF‐I act together to stimulate adult chondrocyte extracellular matrix synthesis.
The relevance of a hypoxic tumour microenvironment in prostate cancer

Research into the hypoxic tumour microenvironment is accelerating and the reversal of hypoxia is increasingly being suggested as a mechanism for improving cancer treatment. Recent studies have suggested that hypoxia is also a feature in prostate cancer and is associated with a poor prognosis. Hypoxia has been shown to cause radio‐resistance and hence hamper one of the major treatments for prostate cancer. However, unlike other solid tumours, such as cervical and head‐and‐neck cancer, there are inconsistencies and unanswered questions about the relevance of hypoxia in prostate cancer. This review outlines the role of low‐oxygen conditions in prostate cancer and the areas where further studies are required.
Commitment to deoxyribonulceic acid synthesis and the cell cycle in endotoxin-stimulated murine spleen cells

Events associated with endotoxin-induced mitogenesis in murine spleen cells were investigated. Commitment to deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) synthesis, the onset of DNA synthesis, and phases of cell cycle were timed. Increased levels of DNA synthesis in murine spleen cells stimulated with endotoxin were observed 12 to 16 h after the addition of the mitogen. The total cell cycle time of stimulated B-cells was 11 to 14 h. The S-phase was 8 h. The G2-phase was 1 h, and the combined M-plus G1-phase of cycling cells was 2 to 5 h. A 1- to 4-h exposure to lipopolysaccharide elicited a significant increase in DNA synthesis. Progressively longer exposures to lipopolysaccharide, up to 24 h, produced further increases in first-cycle DNA synthesis. Polymyxin B, when added with endotoxin to cultures from the outset, inhibited first-cycle DNA synthesis. However, if addition of the antibiotic was delayed, progressive increases in first-cycle dna synthesis were observed. These data indicate a heterogeneity among B-cells in their responsiveness to endotoxin.
Inoculum composition determines microbial community and function in an anaerobic sequential batch reactor

The sustainable recovery of resources from wastewater streams can provide many social and environmental benefits. A common strategy to recover valuable resources from wastewater is to harness the products of fermentation by complex microbial communities. In these fermentation bioreactors high microbial community diversity within the inoculum source is commonly assumed as sufficient for the selection of a functional microbial community. However, variability of the product profile obtained from these bioreactors is a persistent challenge in this field. In an attempt to address this variability, the impact of inoculum on the microbial community structure and function within the bioreactor was evaluated using controlled laboratory experiments. In the course of this work, sequential batch reactors were inoculated with three complex microbial inocula and the chemical and microbial compositions were monitored by HPLC and 16S rRNA amplicon analysis, respectively. Microbial community dynamics and chemical profiles were found to be distinct to initial inoculate and highly reproducible. Additionally we found that the generation of a complex volatile fatty acid profile was not specific to the diversity of the initial microbial inoculum. Our results suggest that the composition of the original inoculum predictably contributes to bioreactor community structure and function.
MENIERE'S SYNDROME AND CLUSTER HEADACHES: RECURRENT PAROXYSMAL FOCAL VASODILATATION.

Three patients experienced attacks of typical cluster headache and also cluster attacks of Meniere's syndrome. In these patients, the two conditions demonstrated strikingly similar clinical patterns. Vasodilatation of a recurrent, focal paroxysmal nature is known to underlie cluster headaches, and a similar mechanism may precipitate episodes of vertigo or tinnitus in certain young or middleaged adults presenting the symptom constellation of recurrent paroxysmal Meniere's syndrome.
Superimposed single impulse and pulse train electrical stimulation: A quantitative assessment during submaximal isometric knee extension in young, healthy men

Superimposed electrical stimulation techniques can be used to detect central activation failure (CAF), defined as incomplete central nervous system recruitment, suboptimal activation of motor units, or both. The purpose of this study was to evaluate superimposed electrical stimulation techniques to be used to detect CAF during isometric knee extension. We performed three sets of experiments and compared the torque increments from transcutaneous electrical stimulation with: (i) single impulses of different amplitudes (100 V, 150 V, and 200 V) and a pulse train of 100 Hz (100 V, 100 ms); (ii) pulse trains (100 Hz, 100 V) of different lengths (100 ms, 200 ms, and 300 ms); and (iii) pulse trains (100 Hz, 100 ms) of different amplitudes (50 V, 100 V, 150 V, and 200 V). Stimulation was evaluated at submaximal (80% of MVC) isometric knee extension in 24 healthy young men using a Biodex isokinetic dynamometer. Electrodes were placed over the rectus femoris muscle and all stimulation impulses were monophasic, rectangular waves of 0.2‐ms duration. Pulse train stimulation at 100 V always elicited a torque increment, whereas single impulse stimulation, even at 200 V, only caused a torque increment in about half of the trials. For each subject, the pulse train generated a significantly larger torque increment than for any of the three single impulses. There was no significant difference in torque increment between the three pulse trains of different lengths. Pulse trains at 150 V and 200 V generated significantly larger torque increments than at 50 V and 100 V. High‐frequency maximal train stimulation may thus improve the detection of CAF during isometric knee extension. Detection of CAF may be important in the clinical assessment of muscle weakness, investigating the mechanisms underlying muscle weakness, and evaluating potential therapeutic strategies. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Muscle Nerve 22: 1038–1046, 1999
Medical adherence in pediatric organ transplantation: what are the next steps?

Purpose of reviewAdherence within pediatric transplantation has gained importance as the complexities of long-term medical management of these patients are identified and knowledge regarding the negative consequences of nonadherence accumulates. We review recent findings to highlight gaps in the literature and make suggestions for future directions. Recent findingsMost research has focused on medication nonadherence, and a recent meta-analysis indicates that nonadherence is more prevalent in adolescent transplant recipients than in younger children. Nonadherence to other areas of the regimen (e.g. clinic attendance) may be even more common than medication nonadherence. However, work to date is based primarily on kidney and liver pediatric transplant patients, with a paucity of research on heart, lung and intestinal recipients. Risk factors for nonadherence after pediatric transplantation include poor family and child functioning. Intervention research remains rare. Challenges include the need for clearer definitions of what constitutes clinically significant nonadherence, longitudinal and prospective assessment of a wider range of potential risk factors, and the development and evaluation of interventions to treat or prevent nonadherence. SummaryAdherence research in pediatric transplantation is in its infancy. Significant opportunities exist to advance the field and create standards for effective identification, measurement, and treatment of nonadherence.