Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The relative contributions of processing speed and cognitive load to working memory accuracy in multiple sclerosis

Cognitive symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) include processing-speed deficits and working memory impairment. The precise manner in which these deficits interact in individuals with MS remains to be explicated. We hypothesized that providing more time on a complex working memory task would result in performance benefits for individuals with MS relative to healthy controls. Fifty-three individuals with clinically definite MS and 36 matched healthy controls performed a computerized task that systematically manipulated cognitive load. The interval between stimuli presentations was manipulated to provide increasing processing time. The results confirmed that individuals with MS who have processing-speed deficits significantly improve in performance accuracy when given additional time to process the information in working memory. Implications of these findings for developing appropriate cognitive rehabilitation interventions are discussed.
How the X(5568) Challenges Our Understanding of QCD

We discuss the X(5568) particle recently announced by the D0 Collaboration. Several types of models were proposed to explain this structure in the literature. As pointed out by Burns and Swanson (arXiv:1603.04366), none of them provides a satisfactory description of the observation. We provide additional arguments using general properties of QCD, and conclude that the observation of the X(5568), if confirmed, poses serious challenges to our understanding of nonperturbative QCD.
Robust enzyme design: Bioinformatic tools for improved protein stability

The ability of proteins and enzymes to maintain a functionally active conformation under adverse environmental conditions is an important feature of biocatalysts, vaccines, and biopharmaceutical proteins. From an evolutionary perspective, robust stability of proteins improves their biological fitness and allows for further optimization. Viewed from an industrial perspective, enzyme stability is crucial for the practical application of enzymes under the required reaction conditions. In this review, we analyze bioinformatic‐driven strategies that are used to predict structural changes that can be applied to wild type proteins in order to produce more stable variants. The most commonly employed techniques can be classified into stochastic approaches, empirical or systematic rational design strategies, and design of chimeric proteins. We conclude that bioinformatic analysis can be efficiently used to study large protein superfamilies systematically as well as to predict particular structural changes which increase enzyme stability. Evolution has created a diversity of protein properties that are encoded in genomic sequences and structural data. Bioinformatics has the power to uncover this evolutionary code and provide a reproducible selection of hotspots – key residues to be mutated in order to produce more stable and functionally diverse proteins and enzymes. Further development of systematic bioinformatic procedures is needed to organize and analyze sequences and structures of proteins within large superfamilies and to link them to function, as well as to provide knowledge‐based predictions for experimental evaluation.
The importance of epidemiological studies should not be downplayed.

Epidemiology as the study of distribution and determinants of disease frequency in human populations can and should be considered a basic science in medicine. Indeed, epidemiological principles and methods (including methods of statistical analysis) form the basis of any medical research, from case reports and other descriptive studies to cohort studies and experimental clinical trials. A randomized controlled trial is no more than a cohort study in which the investigator(s) allocate the exposure being studied to the participants in a random manner. The advancement of medical knowledge follows a process resulting in a “spectrum of evidence. ” Medical hypotheses are generated at the lowest level of evidence, where either clinical observations are made in a case-series or associations are observed in ecologic studies. An ecologic study is defined as an association study where associations between exposures and outcomes are made at the group level (ie, without jointly measuring exposures and outcomes in the same individuals). For example, it has been noted that individuals living in southern France and Italy have a unique diet (exposure), and also that they tend to have low rates of stroke and heart disease (outcome), suggesting a potential association of the diet and cardiovascular risk. Observations from these domains are considered weakest because of the lack of comparison groups in case-series and because multiple alternative pathways …
Maximal force, voluntary activation and muscle soreness after eccentric damage to human elbow flexor muscles

Muscle damage reduces voluntary force after eccentric exercise but impaired neural drive to the muscle may also contribute. To determine whether the delayed‐onset muscle soreness, which develops ∼1 day after exercise, reduces voluntary activation and to identify the possible site for any reduction, voluntary activation of elbow flexor muscles was examined with both motor cortex and motor nerve stimulation. We measured maximal voluntary isometric torque (MVC), twitch torque, muscle soreness and voluntary activation in eight subjects before, immediately after, 2 h after, 1, 2, 4 and 8 days after eccentric exercise. Motor nerve stimulation and motor cortex stimulation were used to derive twitch torques and measures of voluntary activation. Eccentric exercise immediately reduced the MVC by 38 ± 3% (mean ±s.d., n= 8). The resting twitch produced by motor nerve stimulation fell by 82 ± 6%, and the estimated resting twitch by cortical stimulation fell by 47 ± 15%. While voluntary torque recovered after 8 days, both measures of the resting twitch remained depressed. Muscle tenderness occurred 1–2 days after exercise, and pain during contractions on days 1–4, but changes in voluntary activation did not follow this time course. Voluntary activation assessed with nerve stimulation fell 19 ± 6% immediately after exercise but was not different from control values after 2 days. Voluntary activation assessed by motor cortex stimulation was unchanged by eccentric exercise. During MVCs, absolute increments in torque evoked by nerve and cortical stimulation behaved differently. Those to cortical stimulation decreased whereas those to nerve stimulation tended to increase. These findings suggest that reduced voluntary activation contributes to the early force loss after eccentric exercise, but that it is not due to muscle soreness. The impairment of voluntary activation to nerve stimulation but not motor cortical stimulation suggests that the activation deficit lies in the motor cortex or at a spinal level.
Chemical analysis and antimicrobial activity of indigenous medicinal species volatile oils

Phytochemical and antimicrobial screenings of 5 volatile oils of plants (Thymus vulgaris L, Salvia officinalis L, Foeniculum vulgare L., Achillea millefolium L., Carum carvi L.) growing in Southeastern Romanian area were performed. Specific compounds for each species were detected by GC: anethol (80.89% in Foeniculi fructus), carvone (17.37% in Carvi fructus), β-thujone and camphor (30.88% and respectively 21.73% in Salviae herba), thymol (30.86% in Thymi herba) but also other compounds like 1,8-cineol (15.59% in Millefolii flores and 8.55% in Salviae herba), p-cymene (30.53% in Thymi herba and respectively 24.24% in Carvi fructus), borneol (25.79% in Millefolii flores), etc. In vitro antimicrobial activities of volatile oils were tested using two methods: the dilution method for determination of minimal inhibitory concentration and the cylinder-plate diffusion method. All volatile oils showed different levels of inhibitory activity against microbial strains tested. Thymus vulgaris volatile oil was the most active.
INEQUALITIES AMONG THE ELDERLY IN WESTERN EUROPE

The Corresponding Author has the right to grant on behalf of all authors and does grant on behalf of all authors, an exclusive licence (or non exclusive for government employees) on a worldwide basis to the BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and its Licensees to permit this article (if accepted) to be published in JECH editions and any other BMJPGL products to exploit all subsidiary rights, as set out in our licence (http://jech.bmjjournals.com/ifora/licence.pdf)".
Studies on meiotic chromosomes in infertile men and controls with normak karyotypes.

Summary. The meiotic chromosomes in diakinesis\p=m-\metaphase I (MI) and metaphase II (MII) of eighteen controls and seventy-four infertile men with a normal 46,XY chromosome complement were investigated. The MII/MI ratio was decreased in the infertile group. The difference in mean chiasma frequency between the two groups was not statistically significant, but there was a significant variation between individuals. In three infertile men, a small proportion of cells in MI contained indistinct, grossly fragmented chromosomes with low chiasma frequency. The non-pairing of sex chromosomes and homologous autosomes in MI was the same in the controls and infertile men. One hundred and seventy-four cells (15%) of 1159 cells contained non-paired sex chromosomes and in six cells (0\m=.\5%), two small homologous chromosomes were separated. Non-pairing may give rise to zygotes with abnormal chromosome complements. The relative number of polyploid cells in MII, but not in spermatogonial metaphase and MI, was significantly increased in the infertile men. No structural abnormalities were detected.
Constrained Restoration and the Recovery of Discontinuities

The linear image restoration problem is to recover an original brightness distribution X/sup 0/ given the blurred and noisy observations Y=KX/sup 0/+B, where K and B represent the point spread function and measurement error, respectively. This problem is typical of ill-conditioned inverse problems that frequently arise in low-level computer vision. A conventional method to stabilize the problem is to introduce a priori constraints on X/sup 0/ and design a cost functional H(X) over images X, which is a weighted average of the prior constraints (regularization term) and posterior constraints (data term); the reconstruction is then the image X, which minimizes H. A prominent weakness in this approach, especially with quadratic-type stabilizers, is the difficulty in recovering discontinuities. The authors therefore examine prior smoothness constraints of a different form, which permit the recovery of discontinuities without introducing auxiliary variables for marking the location of jumps and suspending the constraints in their vicinity. In this sense, discontinuities are addressed implicitly rather than explicitly. >
Factors determining the spin axis of a pitched fastball in baseball

Abstract In this study, we wished to investigate the factors that determine the direction of the spin axis of a pitched baseball. Nineteen male baseball pitchers were recruited to pitch fastballs. The pitching motion was recorded with a three-dimensional motion analysis system (1000 Hz), and the orientations of the hand segment in a global coordinate system were calculated using Euler rotation angles. Reflective markers were attached to the ball, and the direction of the spin axis was calculated on the basis of their positional changes. The spin axis directions were significantly correlated with the orientations of the hand just before ball release. The ball is released from the fingertip and rotates on a plane that is formed by the palm and fingers; the spin axis of the ball is parallel to this plane. The lift force of the pitched baseball is largest when the angular and translational velocity vectors are mutually perpendicular. Furthermore, to increase the lift forces for the fastballs, the palm must face home plate.
Cyclandelate in the Prophylaxis of Migraine

Cyclandelate inhibits calcium-induced contraction of vascular smooth muscle cells, platelet aggregation induced by thrombin, platelet-activating-factor and adenosine, and also suppresses a provoked 5HT release from platelets. This pharmacological profile suggests that cyclandelate may have a potential prophylactic effect in migraine. To test this hypothesis, a double-blind multicentre study was performed in 214 patients to investigate the efficacy and tolerability of cyclandelate compared to placebo and propranolol. After a 4-week baseline period, eligible patients (randomization 3:2:3) were treated for 12 weeks with daily doses of 1.200 mg cyclandelate (n=81), placebo (n=55) or 120 mg propranolol (n=78). The number of migraine attacks (350% responders) and the migraine duration/month were compared based on the difference between baseline and the last 4 weeks of prophylactic treatment. The percentage of patients with a reduction in migraine attacks of 350% treated with cyclancelate (37.0%) or propranolol (42.3%) was not significantly superior to placebo (30.9%; P>0.025). The mean duration of migraine in hours (h) per month decreased in both active treatment groups (cyclandelate: 36.8h, p=0.046; propranolol: 34.4 h, p=0.039) compared to placebo (13.7 h) without reaching statistical significance (alpha/2=0.025). The clinical efficacy of cyclandelate and propranolol was comparable. Adverse experiences were reported by 13 patients (16.0%) treated with cyclandelate, by 5 patients (9.1%) treated with placebo and by 19 patients (24.4%) treated with propranolol. These were drug-related in 7.1% (n=6) of patients treated with cyclandelate and in 9% (n=7) of patients treated with propranolol. In summary, cyclandelate has a comparable efficacy to that of propranolol an established drug of first choice in the prophylaxis of migraine. Both drugs were better than placebo, but not significantly so. Both active treatments were well tolerated. ÿ box
Impact of the information systems service quality on performance of IT sector organizations in sri lanka

The Information Systems (IS) function now includes a significant service component and it is not just a computer - based solution. However, commonly used measures of service effectiveness have focused on the manufacturing industry and IT industry has not been much focused so far. In local context, neither IS service quality nor functionality is highly focused and critically evaluated. Many instruments have developed such as SERVQUAL which had been used to measure the IS service quality in the marketing field can offer as possible measures of IS service quality. Purpose of this research is to identify the relationship between IS service quality and perceived performance of Sri Lankan IT organizations. The factors affecting IS service quality and perceived performance were identified from literature and the hypothetical model was developed. Research was conducted quantitatively in selected 5 IT companies. The data was analysed using Partial Least Square technique. A strong relationship was revealed between IS service quality and perceived performance of the organizations and safe use, interaction, accuracy and functional coverage were the most impactful factors for IS service quality which drives the organizations' performance with financial viability, motivation and capacity.
Acute phase proteins and interleukins in steady state sickle cell disease

Abstract: To identify a possible acute phase response during the steady state of sickle cell disease, we estimated the serum alterations of acute phase proteins, β2‐microglobulin (β2M), κ and λ light chains, interleukins (ILs) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNFα) in 21 patients. Increased concentrations of C‐reactive protein (CRP) were found in 5 patients, alpha‐1‐acid‐glycoprotein (AGP) in 3, alpha‐1‐antitrypsin (AAT) in 8, ceruloplasmin (CER) in 2, alpha‐2‐macrogiobulin (AMG) in 14 and decreased haptoglobin (HPT) and transferrin (TFR) in 11 and 9, respectively. Increased β2M was found in 10 patients and κ and λ light chains in 11. IL‐1β, IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐10 and TNFα were not detected in any of the patients. However, significantly increased values of IL‐6 and sIL‐2r were found. This study has demonstrated increased serum levels of some of the acute phase proteins in patients during the steady state of sickle cell disease. This may be a result of a subclinical vaso‐occlusion which in turn leads to a covert inflammatory response. Cytokines, and in particular IL‐6, produced after this response, seem to be responsible for the high levels of acute phase proteins in the steady state of this disease.
SCARABAEID BEETLE EXOCUTICLE AS AN OPTICAL ANALOGUE OF CHOLESTERIC LIQUID CRYSTALS

1. A review is given of the optical and architectural analogies between cholesteric liquid crystals and certain insect cuticles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). Earlier observations on the optical properties (reflexion of circularly polarized light and high form optical rotation) are confirmed and extended. Both cholesteric liquid crystals and lamellate cuticle have helicoidal structure (Fig. i). Even though their chemistry and physical states are very different, we are justified in making the analogy, since their optical properties depend primarily on the pitch of their helicoidal architecture.
Injection with methylprednisolone proximal to the carpal tunnel: randomised double blind trial

Abstract Objective: To assess the effect of a 40 mg methylprednisolone injection proximal to the carpal tunnel in patients with the carpal tunnel syndrome. Design: Randomised double blind placebo controlled trial. Fig 1. Site for injecting corticosteroid to treat carpal tunnel syndrome Setting: Outpatient neurology clinic in a district general hospital. Participants: Patients with symptoms of the carpal tunnel syndrome for more than 3 months, confirmed by electrophysiological tests and aged over 18 years. Intervention: Injection with 10 mg lignocaine (lidocaine) or 10 mg lignocaine and 40 mg methylprednisolone Non-responders who had received lignocaine received 40 mg methylprednisolone and 10 mg lignocaine and were followed in an open study. Main outcome measures: Participants were scored as having improved or not improved. Improved was defined as no symptoms or minor symptoms requiring no further treatment. Results: At 1 month 6 (20%) of 30 patients in the control group had improved compared with 23 (77%) of 30 patients the intervention group (difference 57% (95% confidence interval 36% to 77%)). After 1 year, 2 of 6 improved patients in the control group did not need a second treatment, compared with 15 of 23 improved patients in the intervention group (difference 43% (23% to 63%). Of the 28 non-responders in the control group, 24 (86%) improved after methylprednisolone. Of these 24 patients, 12 needed surgical treatment within one year. Conclusion: A single injection with steroids close to the carpal tunnel may result in long term improvement and should be considered before surgical decompression. Key messages Corticosteroid injections into the carpal tunnel may damage the nerve, and any treatment benefits may be of short duration A single injection with steroids proximal to the carpal tunnel improves 77% of patients with the carpal tunnel syndrome at one month after treatment This single injection is still effective at one year in half of the patients Injections proximal to the carpal tunnel have no side effects and are easier to carry out than injections into the carpal tunnel
Incidence, risk factors, microbiology of venous catheter associated bloodstream infections - A prospective study from a tertiary care hospital

Purpose : Central venous catheters (CVCs) though indispensable in current medical and intensive care treatment, also puts patients at risk of catheter related infection (CRI) resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. We analysed the incidence, risk factors, bacteriological profile and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of the isolates in central venous catheter associated bloodstream infection (CVC-BSI) in the intensive care unit (ICU) patients and studied the formation of biofilm in CVCs. Materials and Methods: The following case control study included 115 patients with CVC in situ. Quantitative blood cultures (QBC) and catheter tip cultures were performed for the diagnoses. Direct catheter staining was done for an early diagnosis by acridine orange (AO) and Gram staining methods. Biofilm production in catheters was detected by ′tissue culture plate′ (TCP) method. The results were analysed using the computer-based program statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS). Results : In 25/115 patients, definite diagnosis of CVC-BSI was made. The mean age was 48.44 ± 17.34 years (cases) vs 40.10 ± 18.24 years (controls) and the mean duration of catheterisation was 25.72 ± 8.73 days (cases) vs 11.89 ± 6.38 days (controls). Local signs of infection (erythema, tenderness and oozing) were found more significantly in CVC-BSI cases. The AO staining was more sensitive and Gram staining of catheters showed higher specificity. Staphylococcus aureus followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and non-albicans Candida were common CVC-BSI pathogens. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains were isolated in bacterial agents of CVC-BSI. Non-albicans Candida and Enterococcus faecalis showed strong biofilm production. Conclusion : The incidence of CVC-BSI was 21.73% and the rate was 14.59 per 1000 catheter days. Prolonged ICU stay and longer catheterisation were major risk factors. S. aureus was isolated most commonly in CVC-BSI cases. The menace of multidrug resistance and biofilm formation in CVCs is associated with CVC-BSI.
Identification of a carbonic anhydrase-like domain in the extracellular region of RPTP gamma defines a new subfamily of receptor tyrosine phosphatases

The tyrosine phosphatase RPTP gamma is a candidate tumor suppressor gene since it is located on human chromosome 3p14.2-p21 in a region frequently deleted in certain types of renal and lung carcinomas. In order to evaluate its oncogenic potential and to explore its normal in vivo functions, we have isolated cDNAs and deduced the complete sequences of both human and murine RPTP gamma. The murine RPTP gamma gene has been localized to chromosome 14 to a region syntenic to the location of the human gene. Northern (RNA) blot analysis reveals the presence of two major transcripts of 5.5 and 8.5 kb in a variety of murine tissues. In situ hybridization analysis reveals that RPTP gamma mRNA is expressed in specific regions of the brain and that the localization of RPTP gamma changes during brain development. RPTP gamma is composed of a putative extracellular domain, a single transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic portion with two tandem catalytic tyrosine phosphatase domains. The extracellular domain contains a stretch of 266 amino acids with striking homology to the zinc-containing enzyme carbonic anhydrase (CAH), indicating that RPTP gamma and RPTP beta (HPTP zeta) represent a subfamily of receptor tyrosine phosphatases. We have constructed a model for the CAH-like domain of RPTP gamma based upon the crystal structure of CAH. It appears that 11 of the 19 residues that form the active site of CAH are conserved in RPTP gamma. Yet only one of the three His residues that ligate the zinc atom and are required for catalytic activity is conserved. On the basis of this model we propose that the CAH-like domain of RPTP gamma may have a function other than catalysis of hydration of metabolic CO2.