Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A novel elicitor protein from Phytophthora parasitica induces plant basal immunity and systemic acquired resistance.

The interaction between Phytophthora pathogens and host plants involves the exchange of complex molecular signals from both sides. Recent studies of Phytophthora have led to the identification of various apoplastic elicitors known to trigger plant immunity. Here, we provide evidence that the protein encoded by OPEL of Phytophthora parasitica is a novel elicitor. Homologues of OPEL were identified only in oomycetes, but not in fungi and other organisms. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) revealed that OPEL is expressed throughout the development of P. parasitica and is especially highly induced after plant infection. Infiltration of OPEL recombinant protein from Escherichia coli into leaves of Nicotiana tabacum (cv. Samsun NN) resulted in cell death, callose deposition, the production of reactive oxygen species and induced expression of pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP)-triggered immunity markers and salicylic acid-responsive defence genes. Moreover, the infiltration conferred systemic resistance against a broad spectrum of pathogens, including Tobacco mosaic virus, the bacteria wilt pathogen Ralstonia solanacearum and P. parasitica. In addition to the signal peptide, OPEL contains three conserved domains: a thaumatin-like domain, a glycine-rich protein domain and a glycosyl hydrolase (GH) domain. Intriguingly, mutation of a putative laminarinase active site motif in the predicted GH domain abolished its elicitor activity, which suggests enzymatic activity of OPEL in triggering the defence response.
Improvement of cardiovascular risk assessment in Type 2 diabetes by the addition of carotid artery intima–media thickness to Framingham risk score: A retrospective cohort study

Background: The intima–media thickness (IMT) of the carotid artery is highly correlated with cardiovascular events in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The aim of the present study was to undertake a cardiovascular risk assessment in a group of patients (n = 102) who had been followed‐up for 10 years.
Optimizing Explicit Multicast for Multicast Delivery Over IPv6 Wireless Networks

Explicit multicast schemes are well suited to support a very large number of small multicast groups. This makes these schemes interesting for applications as multi-party video conferences or mobility related functions as paging delivery or handover support In this paper one of these schemes, explicit multicast (Xcast), is studied. An analytical model that quantifies Xcast's delivery cost is presented. The impact of several parameters involved in an Xcast session is studied using this model showing that the Xcast delivery cost can be substantially reduced. This optimization is a function of a single parameter, the payload size, and it can be tuned using a second parameter, the number of recipients.
T Cell Responses in Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: Are Cross-Reactive T Cells Suboptimal?1

Dengue virus infection poses a growing public health and economic burden in a number of tropical and subtropical countries. Dengue circulates as a number of quasispecies, which can be divided by serology into four groups or serotypes. An interesting feature of Dengue, recognized over five decades ago, is that most severe cases that show hemorrhagic fever are not suffering from a primary infection. Instead, they are reinfected with a virus of different serotype. This observation poses considerable problems in vaccine design, and it is therefore imperative to gain a full understanding of the mechanisms underlying this immunological enhancement of disease. In this study, we examined a T cell epitope restricted by HLA-A*24, a major MHC class I allele, in Southeast Asia in a cohort of children admitted to a hospital with acute Dengue infection. The cytokine profiles and the degranulation capacity of T cells generated to this epitope are defined and compared across different viral serotypes. Cross-reactive Dengue-specific T cells seem to show suboptimal degranulation but high cytokine production, which may contribute to the development of the vascular leak characteristic of Dengue hemorrhagic fever.
Factors influencing the prescription of intensive combination treatment strategies for early rheumatoid arthritis

Objectives: Despite the availability and demonstrated effectiveness of intensive combination treatment strategies (ICTS) for early rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a discrepancy seems to exist between theoretical evidence and actual prescription in daily practice. The purpose of this study was to explore and identify the factors influencing the prescription of ICTS. Method: This study involved rheumatologists and nurses participating in the Care for Rheumatoid Arthritis (CareRA) trial, a multicentre randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing different ICTS for early RA with conventional disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) plus step-down glucocorticoids (GCs). A qualitative study was carried out using individual semi-structured interviews. Each interview was recorded, transcribed literally, and analysed thematically. In addition, observations at outpatient clinics were used to clarify the interpretation of the results. Results: We interviewed 26 rheumatologists and six nurses and observed five outpatient visits. Identified facilitators included available scientific evidence, personal faith in treatment strategy, staff support, and low treatment costs. Rheumatologists had no doubts about the value of methotrexate (MTX) but some questioned the value of combination strategy, others the effectiveness and/or the dosage of individual compounds. Additional barriers for prescribing ICTS included need for patient education, fear for patients’ preconceptions, concerns about applicability to the individual patient, difficulties with breaking routine, interference with organizational structures and processes, time constraints, and lack of financial support. Conclusions: A heterogeneous set of factors highlights the complexity of prescribing ICTS for early RA in daily clinical practice. Future improvement strategies should stimulate the facilitators while at the same time addressing the barriers. The generalizability of these findings to other health care systems needs further examination.
Olig genes are expressed in a heterogeneous population of precursor cells in the developing spinal cord

Recent results from multiple laboratories have identified Olig genes as important in regulating glial differentiation. Here we show that Olig2 expression at early stages of development (prior to E16.5) identifies a domain in the developing spinal cord, which contains a heterogeneous population of progenitors that includes stem cells and glial progenitors. We show that Nkx2.2 and Olig2, which are present initially in nonoverlapping domains, are coexpressed at later stages, likely due to a second wave of Olig expression. We find that Olig1, like Olig2, is present in cells that coexpress astrocytic and radial glial markers and that Olig1/2 double knockouts lead to a loss of oligodendrocytes with preservation of NG2 expression. These results coupled with previously published data indicate that Olig1/2 and Nkx2.2, while clearly important in regulating early progenitor cell differentiation, do not unambiguously demonstrate the existence of an oligodendrocyte‐neuron precursor or negate the existing retroviral lineage and clonal analysis data that suggest the existence of other types of precursors such as oligodendrocyte‐astrocyte precursors or neuronal precursors. Published 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Factors Affecting Localized Abundance and Distribution of Lesser Mealworm in Earth-Floor Broiler Houses in Subtropical Australia

Abstract Factors that influence the localized abundance and distribution of lesser mealworm, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer), in litter of two compacted earth-floor broiler houses in subtropical Australia were studied using various experimental manipulations. Numbers of lesser mealworms substantially increased inside caged areas and under uncaged empty feed pans placed in open areas of the houses. These populations were found to be localized and independent of chicken-feed, manure, and high beetle populations that normally occur under existing feed pans. Substantial horizontal movement of larvae to under feed pans was recorded. Placing metal barriers around these pans significantly restricted this movement. In almost all treatments, lesser mealworms typically peaked in numbers during the middle of the flock time. This temporal pattern of abundance also was observed under pans within barriers, where relatively low insect numbers occurred, but it was not observed in uncaged open areas (where chickens had complete access). It is likely that larvae do not establish in open areas, but fluctuate in numbers as they either move to refuges away from chickens or suffer high rates of mortality. In these refuges, larvae peak in numbers and then leave the litter environment to pupate in the earth floor before the end of the flock time. This behavior might be exploited for management of lesser mealworm by targeting applications of control agents.
On the Computation of a Common n-finger Robotic Grasp for a Set of Objects

Industrial robotic arms utilize multiple end-effectors, each for a specific part and for a specific task. We propose a novel algorithm which will define a single end-effector’s configuration able to grasp a given set of objects with different geometries. The algorithm will have great benefit in production lines allowing a single robot to grasp various parts. Hence, reducing the number of endeffectors needed. Moreover, the algorithm will reduce end-effector design and manufacturing time and final product cost. The algorithm searches for a common grasp over the set of objects. The search algorithm maps all possible grasps for each object which satisfy a quality criterion and takes into account possible external wrenches (forces and torques) applied to the object. The mapped grasps are represented by high-dimensional feature vectors which describes the shape of the gripper. We generate a database of all possible grasps for each object in the feature space. Then we use a search and classification algorithm for intersecting all possible grasps over all parts and finding a single common grasp suitable for all objects. We present simulations of planar and spatial objects to validate the feasibility of the approach. Keywords—Common Grasping, Search Algorithm, Robotic EndEffector.
EFFECT OF DIAZEPAM ON HEART AND RESPIRATORY RATES OF HARBOR SEAL PUPS FOLLOWING INTRAVENOUS INJECTION

Capture and immobilization of free-ranging pinnipeds is often required for scientific research, thereby necessitating the use of physical and/or chemical restraint (Gales 1989, Lynch et al. 1999). Frequently, when physical restraint (i.e., manual or mechanical) is feasible, a sedative is also administered to increase animal and handler safety, minimize animal distress, and reduce total handling time (Lynch et al. 1999, Gulland et al. 2001). Diazepam (Valium , Sternbach and Reeder 1961), a benzodiazepine derivative, has been described as the best ataractic (i.e., sedative or tranquillizer) for phocids (Hubbard 1969). Because of its hypnotic (i.e., sleep-inducing), anxiolytic (i.e., anti-anxiety), anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties (Randall et al. 1961), diazepam has been used in several seal species to facilitate a variety of minor procedures from instrumentation and tissue sample collection to force feedings and fiberoptic gastroscopy (e.g., Greenwood and Wild 1977, Gage 1984, Bowen et al. 1999). Regardless of the numerous studies using diazepam as a sedative, limited information exists detailing the effects of this drug on the heart and respiratory rates of seals. Research on other mammals, including humans, however, has yielded conflicting results (Rao et al. 1972, Kelly et al. 1973, Muir et al. 1982, Haskins et al. 1986, Yang et al. 1987, Klein and Reinhold 2001).
Eye movements and poor reading: does the Developmental Eye Movement test measure cause or effect?

The literature concerning subjects who have reading difficulties has repeatedly noted their abnormal eye movements. The Developmental Eye Movement (DEM) test was developed on the assumption that poor eye movement control is a major cause of reading difficulties. The hypothesis tested by this study was that practice in fluent reading trains the eye movements that result in a good DEM score, whilst poor readers will exhibit low DEM scores due to insufficient training. English readers (43 children, 20 adults), and Arabic readers (six children, five adults) were recruited. The DEM test was administered twice, performed once reading the horizontal section in the habitual reading direction and secondly in the opposite direction, thus enabling the subjects’ eye movements to be compared when reading in their habitual direction and when reading in a direction which is relatively unpracticed. Paired t‐tests showed that the difference in eye movements (quantified via the DEM test ratio) between the two opposing reading directions was significant in English reading adults, English reading children and Arabic reading children, but not significant in the Arabic adults, who were equally practised in reading in the two directions. The results support the hypothesis that abnormal eye movements are more likely to be an effect and not the cause of reading difficulties. The DEM test should not be used to diagnose eye movement difficulties in a patient with poor reading ability.
Input-Output Linearization and Predictive Current Controller for Offshore Wind Farm VSC-HVDC

In this paper, a nonlinear controller for VSC-HVDC transmission system is proposed. The feedback linearization based nonlinear differential-geometric techniques is used to cancel nonlinearities and decouple the input control variables. A predictive current control (PCC) method is also proposed. It can predict the current reference for the next sampling instant rapidly and accurately. Comprehensive time-domain computer simulations within MATLAB/Simulink have been carried out and the results show the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed control scheme. Streszczenie. W artykule przedstawiono algorytm sterowania nieliniowego dla system przesylu energii VSC-HVDC. W celu odprzezenia sterowanych zmiennych i eliminacji nieliniowości, zastosowano technike nieliniowej geometrii-rozniczkowej do linearyzacji sprzezenia zwrotnego. Zaproponowano takze sterowanie predykcyjne prądu. Wykonane badania symulacyjne w programie Matlab/Simulink potwierdzily skutecznośc algorytmu sterowania. (System sterowania dla farm wiatrowych w ukladzie VSC-HVDC - linearyzacja wejścia/wyjścia, sterowanie predykcyjne prądu).
Implementing a Competence Framework for Administering Medication: Reporting the Experiences of Mental Health Nurses and Students in the UK

Medicine administration is a high risk activity that most nurses undertake frequently. In this paper, the views of registered mental health nurses and final year student nurses are evaluated about the usefulness of the Medicines with Respect Assessment of the Administration of Medicines Competency Framework. A questionnaire using 22 items with closed and open response questions was distributed to 827 practising mental health nurses and 44 final year mental health nursing students. This article presents a content analysis of written replies to the open response questions. Four overlapping themes were identified in response to the open questions posed in the survey: (1) reasons for undertaking the Medicines with Respect Framework; (2) positive aspects; (3) negative aspects; and (4) service user benefits.
Ethics and research governance in a multicentre study: add 150 days to your study protocol

EDITOR—Concern is growing that health service research will be impeded by “research governance” procedures, in addition to the difficulties of gaining ethical approval.1–3 We describe the problems experienced by an evaluation study team (funded by the Service Delivery and Organisation Research Programme) that wanted to assess the impact of modernising endoscopy services in 20 NHS Trusts in England. Ethical approval was given by a multicentre research ethics committee in 47 working days. Achieving research governance approval was more difficult. The study used postal surveys of patients to assess the impact of endoscopy service innovations …
Fluconazole and itraconazole susceptibility of clinical isolates of Cryptococcus neoformans at a tertiary care centre in India: a need for care.

OBJECTIVES In cryptococcosis, fluconazole is a standard prophylactic, therapeutic and maintenance option, particularly in the expanding HIV/AIDS group. However, its excessive use may lead to resistance in Cryptococcus neoformans. Variations in clinical response to fluconazole have already been noted elsewhere, and cases of post-therapy relapse are not uncommon. To assess azole antifungal susceptibility profiles of clinical cryptococcal isolates in India, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has recently initiated preliminary studies using NCCLS M27-A. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-eight randomly chosen AIIMS clinical isolates (spanning 1997-2000), 16 isolates from other institutions in North India, and six reference strains of C. neoformans were subjected to susceptibility testing to fluconazole and itraconazole. RESULTS Among clinical isolates, susceptibilities to fluconazole and itraconazole were 84.1% and 93.2%, respectively. MICs for all clinical isolates were 0.25-32 mg/L for fluconazole and <0.03-0.25 mg/L for itraconazole. MIC50 and MIC90 values for fluconazole were 4 and 16 mg/L, respectively, and those for itraconazole were 0.032 and 0.125 mg/L, respectively. Out of 28 AIIMS clinical isolates, 22 had minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFCs) of fluconazole at 128 mg/L. Moderately high fluconazole MICs (16-32 mg/L) were observed in 16% of clinical isolates--probably the first such report from India. MIC/MFC ratios for fluconazole and itraconazole were 1:32 or more in 16 AIIMS clinical isolates, indicating possible azole tolerance. There was good agreement between MIC values obtained by the micro- and macro-broth dilution techniques of M27-A compared in this study. CONCLUSIONS The observed MIC data warrant continued surveillance of susceptibility values of clinical cryptococcal isolates in India.
Gendered home-based care in South Africa: more trouble for the troubled

This study investigates the experiences of informal caregivers of people living with HIV in two semi-rural communities in South Africa. Ethnographic methods were used to collect and analyse data on the gendered nature and consequences of home-based care from 21 primary caregivers and 20 volunteer caregivers as well as 10 key informants. It was generally women who were poor, unemployed and unmarried who combined the care-giving role with their traditional role as homemaker and that of being the household head and breadwinner. The caregivers experienced physical strains and emotional problems, and were at elevated risk of being infected with HIV and TB. Men were largely absent in HIV/AIDS-affected homes and usually did not assist because of rigid gendered divisions of labour. Home-based care, by creating a disproportionate burden on women, is exacerbating existing gender inequities. It is argued that a thorough understanding of how home-based care undermines the physical health and psychological wellbeing of already vulnerable women is crucial for informing policies on home-based care. Thus, there is a need to incorporate gender perspectives when planning and implementing home-based care programmes.
The impact of trans fat regulation on social inequalities in coronary heart disease in Australia

To The Editor: The evidence that industrially produced trans fatty acids (TFAs) increase the risk of coronary heart disease is compelling, and it is widely agreed that their use in food products should be minimised.1-3 Dietary TFAs are generally found in higher quantities in “unhealthy” food products,4 consumption of which is also found to follow predictable sociodemographic patterns.5 Thus, although the average TFA intake for Australians is relatively low, socioeconomically disadvantaged people are likely to disproportionately represent those with above average intakes.
High Dissociation Rate Constant of Ferrous-Dioxy Complex Linked to the Catalase-like Activity in Lactoperoxidase*

Heme reduction of ferric lactoperoxidase (LPO) into its ferrous form initially leads to the accumulation of the unstable form of LPO-Fe(II), which spontaneously converts to a more stable species, the two of which can be identified by Soret peaks at 440 and 434 nm, respectively. Our data demonstrate that both LPO-Fe(II) species are capable of binding O2 at a similar rate to generate the ferrous-dioxy complex. Its formation with respect to O2 was first order and monophasic and with rate constants of kon = 3.8 × 104 m–1 s–1 and koff = 11.2 s–1. The dissociation rate constant for the formation of LPO-Fe(II)-O2 is relatively high, in contrast to hemoprotein model compounds. This high dissociation rate can be attributed to a combination of effects that include the positive trans effect of the proximal ligand, the heme pocket environment, and the geometry of the Fe-O2 linkage. Our results have also shown that the decay of the LPO-Fe(II)-O2 complex occurs by two sequential O2-independent steps. The first step involves formation of a short-lived intermediate that can be characterized by its Soret absorption peak at 416 nm and may be attributed to the weakening of the Fe(II)-O2 linkage with a rate constant of 0.5 s–1. The second step is spontaneous conversion of this intermediate to generate the native enzyme and presumably superoxide as end products with a rate constant of 0.03 s–1. A comprehensive kinetic model that links LPO-Fe(II)-O2 complex formation to the LPO catalase-like activity, combined with the classic catalytic cycle, is presented here.
Persistent Pain Following Postmastectomy Breast Reconstruction: Long-Term Effects of Type and Timing of Surgery

This study prospectively examined the long-term effects of type (transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous [TRAM] versus implant) and timing (immediate versus delayed) of postmastectomy reconstructive surgery on patient reports of pain at multiple body sites. Women (n = 205) seeking immediate or delayed breast reconstruction, choosing either expander implant or autologous tissue transfer surgical procedures, provided ratings for the presence of bodily, breast, abdominal, and back pain and abdominal tightness prior to surgery and at 2-year follow-up. At baseline, nonwhite women were more likely to undergo delayed reconstruction (P < 0.05), and women seeking delayed reconstruction had less breast pain (P < 0.001) and more back pain (P < 0.01). Multiple regression analyses, controlling for ethnicity and baseline pain, indicated that women receiving TRAM flap surgery reported more problems with abdominal pain and tightness. There was a trend for implant subjects to report more frequent problems with breast pain. These results suggest the need for heightened awareness of potential long-term pain morbidity for women undergoing TRAM flap or implant breast reconstruction.