Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comments on 'Oxhide Ingots, Recycling, and the Mediterranean Metals Trade'

We can comment most efficiently on the analysis of the stable lead isotope ratios in Late Bronze Age oxhide ingots presented by Budd et al. by presenting first our own analysis of pertinent parts of these data. A preliminary observation on the data is that they divide into a number of distinctively different groups. It is true that a sizeable fraction of the ingots, from various find sites, have isotope ratios close to, or overlapping, those of Cyprus copper ores but, as Gale and Stos~Gale have pointed out, none of the oxhide ingots found on Crete has isotope ratios at all consistent with Cypriot ores.
Path Planning for UAVs for Maximum Information Collection

Path planning considers the problem of designing the path a vehicle is supposed to follow. Along the designed path the objectives are to maximize the collected information (CI) from desired regions (DR), while avoiding flying over forbidden regions (FR) and reaching the destination. The path planning problem for a single unmanned air vehicle (UAV) is studied with the proposal of novel evolutionary operators: pull-to-desired-region (PTDR), push-from-forbidden-region (PFFR), and pull-to-final-point (PTFP). In addition to these newly proposed operators, standard mutation and crossover operators are used. The initial population seed-path is obtained by both utilizing the pattern search method and solving the traveling salesman problem (TSP). Using this seed-path the initial population of paths is generated by randomly selected heading angles. It should be emphasized that all of the paths in population in any generation of the genetic algorithm (GA) are constructed using the dynamical mathematical model of a UAV equipped with the autopilot and guidance algorithms. Simulations are realized in the MATLAB/Simulink environment. The path planning algorithm is tested with different scenarios, and the results are presented in Section VI. Although there are previous studies in this field, the focus here is on maximizing the CI instead of minimizing the total mission time. In addition it is observed that the proposed operators generate better paths than classical evolutionary operators.
Comparison of single stage SEPIC and integrated SEPIC-Buck converter as off-line LED drivers

This paper presents comparison of single-stage Single Ended Primary Inductance Converter (SEPIC) and integrated SEPIC-Buck converter to drive Light Emitting Diodes (LED) in general lighting from a storage capacitance reduction point of view. Considering the low lifetime of electrolytic capacitors compared to that of LEDs, this study aims to compare which topology allows for using the smaller bus capacitance replacing it by a longer lifetime capacitor technology, increasing the overall system reliability. The analysis considers the same input/output parameters for both converters. The single-stage topology is a SEPIC operating in discontinuous conduction mode (DCM), which performs both power factor correction (PFC) and power control (PC) functions. In the integrated topology the PC stage is implemented by a Buck converter taking advantage of its output current source behavior, suitable for LED application. The design and implementation allows for a quantitative analysis between both topologies. The single-stage topology requires a 2.119 mF storage capacitance and achieves 85.12% efficiency, while the integrated topology requires a 187.5 μF storage capacitance and attains 83% efficiency for the same input/output parameters.
Powers of the Szegő kernel and Hankel operators on Hardy spaces.

In this paper we study the action of certain integral operators on spaces of holomorphic functions on some domains in Cn: These integral operators are defined by using powers of the Szego kernel as integral kernel. We show that they act like differential operators, or like pseudo-differential operators of not necessarily integral order. These operators may be used to give equivalent norms for the Besov spaces Bp of holomorphic functions. As a consequence we prove that, when 1 p < 1; the small Hankel operators hf on Hardy and weighted Bergman spaces are in the Schatten class Sp if and only if the symbol f belongs to Bp: The type of domains we deal with are the smoothly bounded strictly pseudoconvex domains in Cn and a class of complex ellipsoids in Cn: Our results for strictly pseudo-convex domains depend on Fefferman's expansion of the Szego kernel. In this case, its powers act like a power of the derivation in the normal direction. The ellipsoids we consider are the simplest examples of domains of finite type. In this case, the symmetries of the domains can be exploited to use methods of harmonic analysis and describe the pseudo-differential operators involved.
Phonological variation in spoken word recognition: Episodes and abstractions

Abstract Phonological variation in spoken words is a ubiquitous aspect of spontaneous speech and presents a challenge for recognition of spoken words. We discuss two classes of models, abstract and episodic, that have been proposed for spoken word recognition. Abstract theories rely on inference processes and/or underspecified representations to account for spoken word recognition. Episodic theories assume a lexical representation that encodes each spoken word event with exposure frequency linked to strength of a lexical entry. A model is proposed that posits a frequency-driven phonological variant lexical representation. The model assumes that a word may have more than one variant representation and that exposure to phonological variant form influences the strength of a given variant representation. Evidence for the proposed model is reviewed for a number of variants (nasal flaps, schwa deletion and medial flaps).
Phosphorylation of CD44 in vivo requires both Ser323 and Ser325, but does not regulate membrane localization or cytoskeletal interaction in epithelial cells.

CD44 has been implicated to play an important role in a diverse range of physiological processes, which involve cell‐matrix recognition, cell‐cell adhesion and cell motility. There is increasing evidence that the highly conserved intracellular domain of CD44 may be involved in influencing these activities. CD44 is phosphorylated in vivo on serine residue(s). In view of the importance that phosphorylation has been accorded in a multitude of cellular regulatory processes, we have investigated the role of phosphorylation in the control of CD44. In this report we identify the sites of human CD44 phosphorylation by mutating the three conserved cytoplasmic serine residues. We show that both Ser323 and Ser325, but not Ser316, are required for phosphorylation in vivo and demonstrate that this event is not stimulated by phorbol esters. Clonal MDCK cell lines expressing both the single and double CD44 phosphorylation mutants have been generated. These cell lines have been used to directly assess the role of phosphorylation on CD44 localization in polarized epithelial cells and its association with the cytoskeleton.
Canine Model of Cardiorenal Failure

The heart and the kidneys act in tandem to regulate blood pressure, vascular tone, diueresis and to maintain intravascular volume homeostasis. Besides, the kidneys have a neuroendocrine function with interdependent physiological actions regulated by the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, sympathetic nervous system, and vasopressin and aterial natriuretic peptide. To investigate these complex pathophysiological mechanisms, a canine model for Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) compromised with Renal Dysfunction (RF) was used, to characterize the hemodynamic and neurohumoral aspects of renal function in 21 dogs. Five dogs were used as controls. Bipolar epicardial pacemaker leads were implanted at the apex of the right ventricle in 8 dogs and the dogs were subjected to ventricular pacing at 250-270 beats/min with an external pacemaker (Nihon Kohden) for a period of 11-21 days. This rapid pacing produced CHF. RF was induced by removal of the right kidney with ligation of the small branches of the left kidney in 8 dogs. Three dogs of each of the CHF and RF groups were used to produce CHF and RF in combination; one dog died due to infection. The glomerular filtration rates of the dogs with RF, CHF and CHF+RF were significantly lower than those of the controls, although among the dogs with RF, CHF and CHF+RF, there were no significant differences. In spite of no differences in blood pressure and renal hemodynamics, the levels of plasma renin activity, norepinephrine and vasopressin of CHF+RF group were significantly higher than those of RF and CHF groups. Taken together, these data suggest that in patients with CHF compromised by RF neurohumoral factors are maximally activated.
Function of the cytoplasmic domain of a retroviral transmembrane protein: p15E-p2E cleavage activates the membrane fusion capability of the murine leukemia virus Env protein

In the murine leukemia viruses (MuLVs), the Env complex is initially cleaved by a cellular protease into gp70SU and pre15ETM. After the virus particle is released from the cell, the C-terminal 16 residues are removed from the cytoplasmic domain of pre15E by the viral protease, yielding the mature p15ETM and p2E. We have investigated the function of this cleavage by generating a Moloney MuLV mutant, termed p2E-, in which the Env coding region terminates at the cleavage site. This mutant synthesizes only the truncated, mature form of TM rather than its extended precursor. When cells expressing this truncated Env protein are cocultivated with NIH 3T3 cells, they induce rapid cell-cell fusion. Thus, the truncated form, which is normally found in virions but not in virus-producing cells, is capable of causing membrane fusion. We conclude that the 16-residue p2E tail inhibits this activity of Env until the virus has left the cell. p2E- virions were found to be infectious, though with a lower specific infectivity than that of the wild type, showing that p2E does not play an essential role in the process of infection. Fusion was also observed with a chimeric p2E- virus in which gp70SU and nearly all of p15ETM are derived from amphotropic, rather than Moloney, MuLV. In a second mutant, an amino acid at the cleavage site was changed. The pre15E protein in this mutant is not cleaved. While the mutant Env complex is incorporated into virions, these particles have a very low specific infectivity. This result suggests that the cleavage event is essential for infectivity, in agreement with the idea that removal of p2E activates the membrane fusion capability of the Env complex.
Reply to 'Comment on: management of chemotherapy extravasation: ESMO-EONS clinical practice guidelines'.

1. Perez Fidalgo JA, García Fabregat L, Cervantes A et al. Management of chemotherapy extravasation: ESMO–EONS Clinical Practice Guidelines. Ann Oncol 2012; 23(Sup. 7): vii167–vii173. 2. Hajarizadeh H, Lebredo L, Barrie R et al. Protective effect of doxorubicin in vitamin C or dimethyl sulfoxide against skin ulceration in the pig. Ann Surg Oncol 1994; 1(5): 411–4. 3. Upton J, Mulliken JB, Murray JE. Major intravenous extravasation injuries. Am J Surg 1979; 137(4): 497–506. 4. Reeves D. Management of anthracycline extravasation injuries. Ann Pharmacother 2007; 41:1238–1242. 5. de Lemos ML. Role of dimethylsulfoxide for management of chemotherapy extravasation. J Oncol Pharm Practice 2004; 10: 197–200.
Neuroprotective effects of cognitive enhancement therapy against gray matter loss in early schizophrenia: results from a 2-year randomized controlled trial.

CONTEXT Cognitive rehabilitation has shown efficacy in improving cognition in patients with schizophrenia but the underlying neurobiologic changes that occur during these treatments and support cognitive improvement are not well known. OBJECTIVE To examine differential changes in brain morphology in early course schizophrenia during cognitive rehabilitation vs supportive therapy. DESIGN Randomized controlled trial. SETTING An outpatient research clinic at a university-based medical center that provides comprehensive care services for patients with severe mental illness. PATIENTS A total of 53 symptomatically stable but cognitively disabled outpatients in the early course of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. INTERVENTIONS A 2-year trial with annual structural magnetic resonance imaging and cognitive assessments. Cognitive enhancement therapy is an integrated approach to the remediation of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia that uses computer-assisted neurocognitive training and group-based social-cognitive exercises. Enriched supportive therapy is an illness management approach that provides psychoeducation and teaches applied coping strategies. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Broad areas of frontal and temporal gray matter change were analyzed with longitudinal, voxel-based morphometry methods using mixed-effects models followed by volumetric analyses of regions that demonstrated significant differential changes between treatment groups. RESULTS Patients who received cognitive enhancement therapy demonstrated significantly greater preservation of gray matter volume over 2 years in the left hippocampus, parahippocampal gyrus, and fusiform gyrus, and significantly greater gray matter increases in the left amygdala (all corrected P < .04) compared with those who received enriched supportive therapy. Less gray matter loss in the left parahippocampal and fusiform gyrus and greater gray matter increases in the left amygdala were significantly related to improved cognition and mediated the beneficial cognitive effects of cognitive enhancement therapy. CONCLUSION Cognitive enhancement therapy may offer neurobiologic protective and enhancing effects in early schizophrenia that are associated with improved long-term cognitive outcomes.
Three methods assess nutritional status of leukemia patients before hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

BACKGROUND Some leukemia patients before hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) have nutritional risk or undernutrition, which was one of the main reasons that caused series of complications during transplantation. The aim of this study was to find out some appropriate methods to learn about the nutritional status of leukemia patients before HSCT. METHODS Nutritional status of patients with leukemia was assessed with three common methods of nutritional assessment (nutritional risk screening 2002 (NRS2002), mini nutritional assessment (MNA) and subjective global assessment (SGA)) before HSCT. The assessment results of NRS2002 and MNA were compared by paired χ(2) test. The consistency was analyzed by Kappa test. RESULTS In this study, 13 of 50 patients (26.0%) with leukemia had nutritional risk before HSCT assessed by NRS2002, including 7 patients (14.0%) with undernutrition. Of 50 patients assessed by SGA, only 1 case (2.0%) was mild or moderate undernutrition, and the remaining 49 patients (98.0%) were well-nutrition. Assessed by MNA, 1 case (2.0%) was undernutrition, 11 cases (22.0%) were potential undernutrition, and 38 cases (76.0%) were well-nutrition. Paired χ(2) test results showed that the difference between NRS2002 and MNA was statistically significant (χ(2) = 13.64, P < 0.05); Kappa test results showed that they were consistent between NRS2002 and MNA (Kappa = 0.62, P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS It is important to know the nutritional status of patients with leukemia before HSCT, and NRS2002 should be the first choice of nutritional assessment for patients with leukemia. If NRS2002 and MNA used at the same time, the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the assessment can be improved.
Fetal and infant growth and asthma symptoms in preschool children: the Generation R Study.

RATIONALE Low birth weight is associated with an increased risk of wheezing in childhood. OBJECTIVES We examined the associations of longitudinally measured fetal and infant growth patterns with the risks of asthma symptoms in preschool children. METHODS This study was embedded in a population-based prospective cohort study among 5,125 children. Second- and third-trimester fetal growth characteristics (head circumference, femur length, abdominal circumference, and weight) were estimated by repeated ultrasounds. Infant growth (head circumference, length, and weight) was measured at birth and at the ages of 3, 6, and 12 months. Parental report of asthma symptoms until the age of 4 years was yearly obtained by questionnaires. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Both fetal restricted and accelerated growth, defined as a negative or positive change of more than 0.67 standard deviation score, were not associated with asthma symptoms until the age of 4 years. Accelerated weight gain from birth to 3 months following normal fetal growth was associated with increased risks of asthma symptoms (overall odds ratio for wheezing: 1.44 [95% confidence interval: 1.22, 1.70]; shortness of breath: 1.32 [1.12, 1.56]; dry cough: 1.16 [1.01, 1.34]; persistent phlegm: 1.30 [1.07, 1.58]), but not with eczema (0.95 [0.80, 1.14]). These associations were independent of other fetal growth patterns and tended to be stronger for children of atopic mothers than for children of nonatopic mothers. CONCLUSIONS Weight-gain acceleration in early infancy was associated with increased risks of asthma symptoms in preschool children, independent of fetal growth. Early infancy might be a critical period for the development of asthma.
Echocardiographic evaluation of cardiac structure and function in obese Egyptian adolescents

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to detect structural and functional changes in the left and right ventricles in obese Egyptian adolescents. Methods and results Anthropometric and echocardiographic parameters, including tissue Doppler imaging, were obtained from 70 obese adolescents with average body mass index of 34 plus or minus 3.8 and compared with 50 age- and sex-matched controls, with a body mass index of 21.6 plus or minus 1.9. Cardiac dimensions, stroke volume, left ventricular and right ventricular systolic and diastolic functions were evaluated. The obese group had a higher end-diastolic septal and posterior wall thickness and left ventricular mass index than the non-obese group. Body mass index, mid-arm and hip circumference values showed significant correlations with these echocardiographic variables. Systolic and diastolic functions of the left ventricle were normal in both groups, although stroke volume was high in the obese group. The right ventricle tissue Doppler parameters were similar in both groups. However, the S wave of the septal/lateral tricuspid valve annulus was reduced in the obese group, but not to the level reflecting systolic dysfunction. This was inversely correlated with hip, waist, and mid-arm circumference. Stepwise multiple regression analysis showed that the mid-arm and hip circumference followed by the body mass index are significant predictors of these early cardiac abnormalities. Conclusion Left ventricular hypertrophy is present in obese children, although both systolic and diastolic functions are normal. Tissue Doppler imaging revealed a minor, but still significant, reduction in the right ventricular systolic function. Mid-arm and hip circumference are predictors of left ventricular hypertrophy.
Problèmes méthodologiques de l'évaluation des pratiques socio-linguistiques en langues "régionales" ou "minoritaires" : l'exemple de la situation en France

Le discours dominant declarant moribondes les langues "regionales" de France est contredit par certaines enquetes scientifiques et semble servir une ideologie centraliste. L'auteur montre les difficultes methodologiques d'une enquete "objective" sur les pratiques linguistiques en situation diglossique en s'appuyant sur des observations issues de la pragmatique, de l'ethnologie et de la psychologie sociale (principe de coupure, strategie de dissimulation/ostentation). Il propose plutot une analyse comparative de representations et de faits circonscrits.
Abnormal Collagen Fibrils in Cartilage of Matrilin-1/Matrilin-3-deficient Mice*

Matrilins are oligomeric extracellular matrix adaptor proteins mediating interactions between collagen fibrils and other matrix constituents. All four matrilins are expressed in cartilage and mutations in the human gene encoding matrilin-3 (MATN3) are associated with different forms of chondrodysplasia. Surprisingly, however, Matn3-null as well as Matn1- and Matn2-null mice do not show an overt skeletal phenotype, suggesting a dominant negative pathomechanism for the human disorders and redundancy/compensation among the family members in the knock-out situation. Here, we show that mice lacking both matrilin-1 and matrilin-3 develop an apparently normal skeleton, but exhibit biochemical and ultrastructural abnormalities of the knee joint cartilage. At the protein level, an altered SDS-PAGE band pattern and a clear up-regulation of the homotrimeric form of matrilin-4 were evident in newborn Matn1/Matn3 and Matn1 knock-out mice, but not in Matn3-null mice. The ultrastructure of the cartilage matrix after conventional chemical fixation was grossly normal; however, electron microscopy of high pressure frozen and freeze-substituted samples, revealed two consistent observations: 1) moderately increased collagen fibril diameters throughout the epiphysis and the growth plate in both single and double mutants; and 2) increased collagen volume density in Matn1-/-/Matn3-/- and Matn3-/- mice. Taken together, our results demonstrate that matrilin-1 and matrilin-3 modulate collagen fibrillogenesis in cartilage and provide evidence that biochemical compensation might exist between matrilins.
The correlation between bacteriological findings in the nose and maxillary sinus in acute maxillary sinusitis

Nasal and sinus bacteriology have been investigated in healthy controls and in patients with acute maxillary sinusitis. Comparatively few healthy noses were sterile, and in controls the nasal bacterial flora commonly consisted mainly of staphylococci and diphtheroid rods. Nasal specimens from patients with sinusitis showed most common findings to be “no growth,” pneumococci, Haemophilus influenzae and staphylococci in that order. In aspirated sinus secretions there was a predominance of pneumococci, “no growth” and Haemophilus influenzae. Other bacteria were uncommon. Staphylococci were shown conclusively to be nasal contaminants. The same organisms were found in the nasal and sinus secretions of patients with sinusitis in only 64 percent, thus indicating that nasal samples are of low predictive value in reflecting sinus flora. It can be argued that in the individual patient with sinusitis it is more reliable to base therapy on the results of previous bacteriological investigations than on the individual bacteral findings in the nose.