Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal analyses of interactions between entorhinal and CA1 projections to the subiculum in rat brain slices

The subiculum and the entorhinal cortex (EC) are important structures in processing and transmitting information between the neocortex and the hippocampus. The subiculum potentially receives information from the EC through two routes. In addition to a direct projection from EC to the subiculum, there is an indirect polysynaptic connection. The latter uses a number of possible pathways, which all converge onto the final projection from the hippocampal field CA1 to the subiculum. In this series of experiments we investigated to what extent activity in both pathways influences population activity of subicular neurons. We used voltage sensitive dyes in combined hippocampal‐EC slices of the rat to measure the spatio‐temporal activity patterns. To activate the two inputs to the subiculum, stimulation electrodes were placed in the stratum oriens/alveus of CA1 and in layer III of the medial EC. The response patterns evoked in the subiculum after electrical stimulation of each of these input pathways separately were compared with the response patterns after simultaneous stimulation of both areas (medial EC + CA1). A comparison of the computed added responses of the two individual stimulations with the measured responses after simultaneous stimulation suggests that both inputs are linearly added in the subiculum with very little nonlinear interactions. This strongly suggests that in the subiculum interaction at a single cell level of the direct and the indirect pathways from the EC is an unlikely scenario. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Can Servant Leaders Fuel the Leadership Fire? The Relationship between Servant Leadership and Followers’ Leadership Avoidance

This study tested the effect of servant leadership on followers’ inclinations to strive for and, in contrast, to avoid leadership responsibility. Results from a study in the health care context, including two waves of data from 222 employees, revealed that servant leadership had a small but positive effect on followers’ leadership avoidance. This effect was influenced by followers’ implicit conception of an ideal leader. Specifically, servant leadership was found to reduce leadership avoidance when the congruence with the followers’ ideal leader prototype was high. Furthermore, followers’ core self-evaluations and affective motivation to lead mediated the relationship between servant leadership and reduced leadership avoidance. Implications of these patterns for theory and practice and avenues for future research are discussed.
Women's Perspectives on their Experiences of Chronic Pelvic Pain and Medical Care

This study aimed to explore women's experiences of chronic pelvic pain (CPP). Twenty-one interviews with women 12 to 18 months after a negative laparoscopy were conducted. A predominantly qualitative methodology was adopted. The majority of women were still experiencing pain at this time, yet few were in receipt of continuing medical care. Women's accounts suggested that their pain continued to affect many areas of their lives, and issues including uncertainty, anxiety, and a sense of not being believed emerged. In provision of care, ways in which health professionals related to women were viewed as important, and had an impact in terms of whether or not they felt their pain had been validated. Dissatisfaction with the quality and quantity of information offered by professionals was a common finding. Based on women's accounts, implications for improving the quality of care for women with CPP are provided.
Serum resistin and adiponectin levels in young non-obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Introduction. Although polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was described more than half a century ago, the underlying cause of PCOS is still unknown. The aim of our study was to evaluate whether serum resistin and adipocytokine levels alter and its changes relate with low grade inflammation in non-obese young women with PCOS. Subjects and methods. Newly diagnosed 31 young non-obese women with PCOS (mean age 21.8 ± 5.4 years; body mass index (BMI): 23.8 ± 6.6 kg/m2) and 25 BMI- and age-matched, regular-cycling, healthy women (mean age 24.9 ± 5.7 years; BMI: 23.1 ± 5.8 kg/m2) were included the study Anthropometric measurements were evaluated. Resistin, adiponectin, glucose, insulin, hormone profiles, Lipoprotein (Lp)(a), high sensitive C reactive protein (hs-CRP), and homocysteine levels were measured in the beginning of oral glucose tolerance test. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated. Results. Non-obese young women with PCOS had high adiponectin levels (28.01 ± 6.47 ng/ml in PCOS vs. 23.89 ± 7.70 ng/ml in control subjects, p = 0.034), whereas serum resistin levels were not significantly different compared with healthy controls (14.14 ± 6.6 ng/ml in PCOS vs. 13.78 ± 4.26 ng/ml in control subjects). There were no significant differences between two groups in terms of fasting insulin, Lp(a), homocysteine, and hs-CRP levels. Mean HOMA-IR value of patients with PCOS was similar with control subjects (1.93 ± 0.73 in PCOS; 1.15 ± 0.54 in control group). Conclusions. Resistin levels did not change in non-obese young women with PCOS whereas adiponectin level in non-obese young women with PCOS was significantly higher than control subjects, perhaps, because of no insulin resistance. Circulating resistin levels may not be candidate to play a role in pathogenesis of PCOS without insulin resistance or obesity.
Cardiovascular response to isometric handgrip exercise in offsprings of hypertensives-A comparative study

Background: Risk of an offspring becoming hypertensive is several-fold. The need for early detection and change in the lifestyles to prevent future morbidity becomes important. Hypothesis: Cardiovascular responses to isometric handgrip (IHG) exercise are exaggerated in offspring of hypertensive. Heightened cardiovascular stress responsivity is associated with cardiovascular disease. Material and Methods: This comparative study was done on 60 first year medical students between the age group of 17-20 years, 30 students whose parents were hypertensives (study group) and 30 students who had no family history of hypertension (control group). Anthropometric characteristics like height (cm), weight (kg), and body mass index (kg/m 2 ) were recorded. Heart rate (bpm) and blood pressure (mmHg) were recorded before, during, immediately and 2 minutes after isometric hand grip exercise in both the groups. These values were compared by student t-test using SPSS version 11.0. Results: It was observed that the basal heart rate and blood pressure was high in study group and also the cardiovascular responses to isometric handgrip exercise were exaggerated in offspring of hypertensives as compared to the controls indicating greater sympathetic response to physical stress. The greater sympathetic activity suggests a possible mechanism for future hypertension in them. Conclusion: The detection of exaggerated cardiovascular response in study group to stress early in life emphasizes the importance of genetic influence on hypertension. Thus can help in early detection of risk of cardiovascular disease and implement changes in the subject’s lifestyle to prevent future morbidity. Key-words: Offspring of hypertensives, Isometric Handgrip exercise, Sympathetic response
Variations in Cognitive Control and Psychophysiological Defense in the Schizophrenias

&NA; Recent researches in the schizophrenias have led to the identification of systematic relationships between sensory, perceptual, and cognitive response parameters, on the one hand, and on the other, symptom variables and their interactions with “premorbid adjustment” and length of hospitalization variables. Certain psychological and physiological reaction patterns and the mechanisms which appear to underlie them are examined in various schizophrenic and non‐schizophrenic groups. These response mechanisms, conceptualized as serving significant defensive and adaptive functions, are shown to assume quite different forms in clinically differentiable schizophrenic subtypes.
Safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of open label sarcosine added on to anti-psychotic treatment in schizophrenia - preliminary study.

BACKGROUND Hypofunction of NMDA receptor-mediated neurotransmission might play a critical role in schizophrenia. Sarcosine, N- methylglycine and inhibitor of the glycine transporter-1 (Gly-T1), has been suggested as a novel treatment for schizophrenia. METHODS Open label sarcosine was added to 22 stabilized patients: 5 patients received 2 gm/d, and 17 received 4gm/d. Pharmacokinetics samples, clinical and cognitive parameters using PANSS, CGI and MCCB were collected for all patients. RESULTS Significant improvement was observed after one week of treatment on PANSS sub-scale of 'positive symptoms' (Z= -2.68; P=0.007) and 'general psychopathology' (Z= -3.02; P=0.003), an improvement in PANSS total score and CGI-S showed a trend (Z= -2.72; P=0.06; Z=-2.69; P=0.08). Speed of processing (MCCB subscale) improved significantly (Z=-2.13; P=0.03). Sarcosine exhibited linear kinetics, with a Tmax and t½ of ~1½- 2½ hr and ~1hr, respectively. LIMITATIONS This was a short period, open label pilot study with small sample size per dosage group. CONCLUSIONS Sarcosine is a safe compound and might be efficacious in the treatment of schizophrenia.
Galantamine improves apomorphine‐induced deficits in prepulse inhibition via muscarinic ACh receptors in mice

Background and purpose: Galantamine, a weak acetylcholine esterase (AChE) inhibitor and allosteric potentiator of nicotinic ACh receptors (nAChRs), improves apomorphine‐induced deficits in prepulse inhibition (PPI), sensory information‐processing deficits, via a nAChR‐independent mechanism. The present study examined the role of muscarinic ACh receptors (mAChRs) in the effect of galantamine, and studied the mechanism of galantamine‐induced increases in prefrontal ACh levels in mice.
Reflection and absorption of millimeter waves by thin absorbing films.

Reflection, transmission, and absorption of mm-waves by thin absorbing films were determined at two therapeutic frequencies: 42. 25 and 53.57 GHz. Thin filter strips saturated with distilled water or an alcohol-water solution were used as absorbing samples of different thicknesses. The dependence of the power reflection coefficient R(d) on film thickness (d) was not monotonic. R(d) passed through a pronounced maximum before reaching its steady-state level [R(infinity)]. Similarly, absorption, A(d), passed two maximums with one minimum between them, before reaching its steady-state level [A(infinity)]. At 42.25 GHz, A(d) was compared with absorption in a semi-infinite water medium at a depth d. When d < 0.3 mm, absorption by the film increased: at d = 0.1 mm the absorption ratio for the thin layer sample and the semi-infinite medium was 3.2, while at d = 0.05 mm it increased up to 5.8. Calculations based on Fresnel equations for flat thin layers adequately described the dependence of the reflection, transmission, and absorption on d and allowed the determination of the refractive index (n), dielectric constant (epsilon), and penetration depth (delta) of the absorbing medium for various frequencies. For water samples, epsilon was found to be 12.4-19.3j, delta = 0.49 mm at 42.25 GHz, and epsilon = 9.0-19.5j, delta = 0.36 mm at 53.57 GHz. The calculated power density distribution within the film was strongly dependent on d. The measurements and calculations have shown that the reflection and absorption of mm-waves by thin absorbing layers can significantly differ from the reflection and absorption in similar semi-infinite media. The difference in reflection, absorption, and power density distribution in films, as compared to semi-infinite media, are caused by multiple internal reflections from the film boundaries. That is why, when using thin phantoms and thin biological samples, the specifics of the interaction of mm-waves with thin films should be taken into account.
Alterations in alpha 1-adrenoceptor stimulation of isolated atria from experimental diabetic rats.

This purpose of this investigation was to determine the influence of experimental diabetes (3 months) on the responsiveness of rat isolated atria to alpha 1-adrenoceptor stimulation by phenylephrine. Diabetes was chemically induced with streptozotocin (65 mg/kg i.v.) in 42- to 43-day-old, nonfasted male Sprague-Dawley derived rats. Chronotropic (right atria) and inotropic (left atria) indices were recorded in response to alpha 1-adrenoceptor stimulation by phenylephrine. These experiments were performed in the presence of beta-adrenoceptor antagonism (timolol). Isolated right atria from diabetic rats demonstrated a greater increase in heart rate in response to phenylephrine than did corresponding control atria. Left atria were supersensitive (decrease in EC50 values) and hyperresponsive to alpha 1-adrenoceptor stimulation by phenylephrine when compared with stimulation of control left atria. Diabetic left atria in response to phenylephrine were observed to exchange more radioactive calcium (45Ca2+) than control left atria, whereas both diabetic and control left atria exchanged the same amount of 45Ca2+ during basal contractile conditions. Phenylephrine had no effect on 45Ca2+ efflux from either diabetic or control atria. These results indicate that 3 months of uncontrolled experimental diabetes in the rat produces an enhancement of alpha 1-adrenoceptor activation of isolated atria, and that there is an alteration in Ca2+ mobilization which may contribute to the enhanced receptor activation.
Effect of botulinum toxin A‐induced paralysis and exercise training on mechanosensing and signalling gene expression in juvenile rat gastrocnemius muscle

Intramuscular injections of the paralytic botulinum neurotoxin A (Btx) and physical exercise are used in the treatment of chronic spasticity in children with cerebral palsy. We tested whether Btx‐induced paralysis and/or exercise training would have differential effects on the expression of mechanosensing and signalling genes implicated in the adaptive remodelling of skeletal muscle. Juvenile (29‐day‐old) male rats were injected with Btx or saline (NoBtx) into the right gastrocnemius and housed in standard cages (NoEx) or with running wheels (Ex), for 3 weeks (n= 6 per group). The mRNA expression of nine sarcomere‐associated genes in the medial gastrocnemius was then determined by quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction. The Btx‐injected muscles weighed 50% less than NoBtx muscles, but Ex had no effect on the wet mass of Btx or NoBtx muscles. Atrogenic MuRF1, sarcomeric Titin and myogenic MyoD were upregulated (2‐fold) with the elimination of contractile activity in Btx muscle. Expression of CARP, Ankrd2 and MLP was increased with mechanical stimuli associated with Btx (5‐ to 10‐fold) or Ex (2‐ to 4‐fold). Expression of CARP and Ankrd2 increased synergistically in Btx–Ex muscle (≥20‐fold), indicating that these genes may be sensitive to passive stretch of the sarcomeric I‐band region of titin to which their proteins bind. Tcap, Myopalladin and Atrogin1 were not, or were no longer responsive to the altered mechanical stimuli after 3 weeks of Btx or Ex. The expression of Ankrd2, CARP and MLP may thus be enhanced by passive stretch within the Btx‐paralysed and/or exercising gastrocnemius and contribute to adaptations, other than muscle mass, in juvenile rats.
Evaluating the effectiveness of public health leadership training: the NEPHLI experience.

OBJECTIVES We assessed the effect of public health leadership training on the capacity of public health leaders to perform competencies derived from the list of "Ten Essential Public Health Services" presented in 1994 by the steering committee of the Public Health Functions Project. METHODS Graduating scholars of the Northeast Public Health Leadership Institute were surveyed to determine differences in skill level in 15 competency areas before and after training. Surveys were completed after program completion. RESULTS The training program improved the skill levels of participants in all 15 competency areas. A relation also was detected between the frequency of use of the competency and the improvement experienced. CONCLUSIONS Public health leadership training programs are effective in improving the skills of public health workers.
Statistical physics approach to understanding the multiscale dynamics of earthquake fault systems

Earthquakes and the faults upon which they occur interact over a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. In addition, many aspects of regional seismicity appear to be stochastic both in space and time. However, within this complexity, there is considerable self‐organization. We argue that the occurrence of earthquakes is a problem that can be attacked using the fundamentals of statistical physics. Concepts of statistical physics associated with phase changes and critical points have been successfully applied to a variety of cellular automata models. Examples include sandpile models, forest fire models, and, particularly, slider block models. These models exhibit avalanche behavior very similar to observed seismicity. A fundamental question is whether variations in seismicity can be used to successfully forecast the occurrence of earthquakes. Several attempts have been made to utilize precursory seismic activation and quiescence to make earthquake forecasts, some of which show promise.
Are picro-dye reactions for collagens quantitative? Chemical and histochemical considerations.

Previous studies of picro-dye reactions demonstrated wide variations in the binding of different dyes. Picro-Sirius Red F3BA was recommended because it colors all collagens intensely and is suitable for polarization microscopy. Recent publications on quantitative uses of this stain were surprising. To obtain further information on the chemical mechanisms of dye binding by proteins, 94 sulfonated azo dyes were tested under the conditions of the picro-Sirius Red F3BA reaction. Reaction patterns varied widely, from failure to compete successfully with picrate ions for binding sites to strong coloration of all tissue structures. Only a few dyes stained collagen, reticulum fibers and basement membranes intensely and selectively. The reactivity of dyes was determined by their molecular configuration and the nature and position of substituents. Correlation with physico-chemical data showed that dye binding is due to non-ionic interactions, i.e. van der Waals and dispersion forces and hydrophobic bonding. Coulomb forces do not impart affinity - increasing sulfonation actually decreases dye uptake - but draw dyes within reach of non-ionic sites. Bound dyes form aggregates with additional dye ions; the aggregation number can range from 2 to many powers of 10. Clearly, dye binding by proteins is not stoichiometric.
Developmental Immunotoxicity of Lead in the Rat: Influence of Maternal Diet

The effect of maternal dietary protein intake on lead-induced developmental immunotoxicity was studied in female Fischer 344 rats receiving lead acetate (250 ppm) or sodium acetate (control) in the drinking water during breeding and pregnancy until parturition. Dams were fed isocaloric diets (either 20% casein or 10% casein) from 2 wk prior to mating until the end of lactation. After weaning, dams and female offspring were given the 20% casein diet and regular water. Immune function was assessed in dams at 8 wk postpartum and in offspring at 13 wk of age. Dams showed no marked difference in any of the immune endpoints examined, regardless of diet or lead treatment. In contrast, lead exposure during early development produced a subsequent significant reduction of both the delayed-type hypersensitivity response and interferon γ production in adult offspring independent of maternal diet. Lead-exposed offspring from the high-dietary-protein group had significantly elevated production of both interleukin-4 and tumor necrosis factor α(TNF-α) with increased relative spleen weight and a decreased body weight compared to offspring in the lead control group. In contrast, lead-exposed offspring from dams receiving the low-protein diet had no marked change in TNF-α levels, relative spleen weight, or body weight, while interleukin-4 levels were significantly reduced compared with the lead control group. In conclusion, maternal dietary protein intake can modulate the immunotoxic effects of lead exposure during early development. This occurred at levels of protein intake and doses of lead exposure that produced no detectable effect on the maternal immune system.
The Alternative Healthy Eating Index Is Associated with a Lower Risk of Fatal and Nonfatal Acute Myocardial Infarction in a Chinese Adult Population.

BACKGROUND Indexes to quantify adherence to recommended dietary patterns have been developed for Western populations, but it is unclear whether these indexes can predict acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in Asian populations. OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate the association between the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI)-2010 and risk of AMI and to evaluate potential mediation by traditional cardiovascular risk factors in a Chinese population. METHODS A nested case-control study in 751 incident cases of AMI (564 nonfatal and 288 fatal) and 1443 matched controls was conducted within the prospective Singapore Chinese Health Study, a cohort of ethnic Chinese men and women aged 45-75 y. At baseline, habitual diet was assessed by using a validated, semiquantitative food-frequency questionnaire. AMI cases were ascertained via linkage with nationwide hospital databases (confirmed through medical record review) and the Singapore Birth and Death Registry. We evaluated the association between the AHEI-2010 and cardiovascular risk factors, including glycated hemoglobin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, creatinine, plasma lipids (LDL and HDL cholesterol, triglycerides), and blood pressure. ORs and 95% CIs were computed by using multivariable-adjusted conditional logistic regression models. RESULTS Higher AHEI-2010 scores were associated with a lower risk of AMI (OR for the highest quartile compared with the lowest quartile: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.47, 0.81; P-trend < 0.001), with similar associations for fatal (OR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.39, 0.94; P-trend = 0.009) and nonfatal (OR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.43, 0.81; P-trend = 0.002) AMI. This association was only slightly attenuated after adjustment for potential biological intermediates (OR: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.48, 0.86; P-trend = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS Adherence to dietary recommendations as reflected in the AHEI-2010 was associated with a substantially lower risk of fatal and nonfatal AMI in an Asian population, and this association was largely independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors.