Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Psychosocial Factors Associated With Risk Perceptions for Chronic Diseases in Younger and Middle-Aged Women

Perceptions of disease risk play an important role in motivating people to adopt healthy behaviors. However, little is known about psychosocial factors that influence women’s perceived risk for developing disease. The present study investigated the extent to which individual traits, social influences, objective risk factors, and demographic characteristics were associated with women’s risk perceptions for cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, and lung cancer. Using structural equation modeling, we examined hypothesized associations among 452 younger (ages 18–25 years) and 167 middle-aged (ages 40–64 years) women. A greater number and variety of factors were associated with middle-aged women’s risk perceptions compared to younger women. For both groups, some objective risk factors were associated with risk perceptions; yet, associations also existed between multiple psychosocial variables (optimism, health locus of control, social exposure to disease, perceived stigma) and risk perceptions. Results suggested that women may base their risk estimates on factors beyond those considered important by healthcare providers.
Amphotericin B Potentiation of Rifampicin as an Antifungal Agent against the Yeast Phase of Histoplasma capsulatum

Rifampicin, at high concentrations, inhibited growth and RNA synthesis in the yeast phase of Histoplasma capsulatum. These effects were potentiated by low concentrations of amphotericin B. The combination of the two agents was fungicidal, whereas each alone, at much higher concentrations, was only fungistatic.
Structured sparce signal recovery in general Hilbert spaces

The ability to process large amounts of data is fundamental to many parts of modern society, and is relevant in many areas including physics, medicine, finance and even in social networking. With terabytes of data being produced every second, a big issue is how to analyse this data. Often the events we are interested in—be it the discovery of a new subatomic particle, a new protein or detecting a spurious financial transaction—occur infrequently. In this thesis we will explore ways to take advantage of this “sparsity of interesting events”. To do this, we will build upon the idea of compressive sensing or sparse signal recovery, as developed by Candès et al. (2006) and Donoho (2006). The idea behind sparse signal recovery is that we are given a dictionary containing the (many) possible events, and we want to find the sparsest linear combination of these events which best explains the measurements or observations that we have of the system. Mathematically speaking, we are interested in finding sparse solutions to underdetermined linear systems. In this thesis, we will show how we can make use of additional structure in the data, such as the clustering of the non-zero entries, or that the non-zero entries form a low-rank matrix, to solve these underdetermined linear systems. In the first part of this thesis, we present a general framework for a wide class of sparse signal recovery results. These results allow us to assume a model for the data, extending the work of Eldar et al. (2010) and Baraniuk et al. (2010) to other signal models, including the case where the signal is known to lie in an infinite dimensional
Trade in French books in Zagreb: 1796-1823

The intention of this paper is to contribute to the picture of the book trade in Zagreb in the late 18th and early19th century. The objectives of the research were to find out which booksellers’ catalogues were available in Croatian capital Zagreb in that period and to illustrate the conclusions that can be drawn from the information gathered by focusing on a narrow topic: trade in French books in a particular period. A focus on French books was inspired by the importance of French culture in Europe of that time. The research included eight available catalogues published by three prominent Zagreb-based booksellers between 1796 and 1823. The resources were observed and their contents, format and internal organisation described which was followed by comparative analysis of 245 French titles indexed in these catalogues. Conclusions have been suggested about the availability of French books in Zagreb as well as pricing policy and other practices of the booksellers of that time. Possible contribution to book history in Croatia is not only in the results but also in the type of analysis performed.
Thermal evolution of an early magma ocean in interaction with the atmosphere

The thermal evolution of magma oceans produced by collision with giant impactors late in accretion is expected to depend on the composition and structure of the atmosphere through the greenhouse effect of CO2 and H2O released from the magma during its crystallization. In order to constrain the various cooling timescales of the system, we developed a 1‐D parameterized convection model of a magma ocean coupled with a 1‐D radiative‐convective model of the atmosphere. We conducted a parametric study and described the influences of the initial volatile inventories, the initial depth of the magma ocean, and the Sun‐planet distance. Our results suggest that a steam atmosphere delays the end of the magma ocean phase by typically 1 Myr. Water vapor condenses to an ocean after 0.1, 1.5, and 10 Myr for, respectively, Mars, Earth, and Venus. This time would be virtually infinite for an Earth‐sized planet located at less than 0.66 AU from the Sun. Using a more accurate calculation of opacities, we show that Venus is much closer to this threshold distance than in previous models. So there are conditions such as no water ocean is formed on Venus. Moreover, for Mars and Earth, water ocean formation timescales are shorter than typical time gaps between major impacts. This implies that successive water oceans may have developed during accretion, making easier the loss of their atmospheres by impact erosion. On the other hand, Venus could have remained in the magma ocean stage for most of its accretion.
A single growth hormone (GH) determination is sufficient for the diagnosis of GH‐deficiency in adult patients using the growth hormone releasing hormone plus growth hormone releasing peptide‐6 test

background The diagnosis of GH deficiency in adults is based on the provocative testing of GH secretion. When testing a patient with suspected GH deficiency, clinicians assess the whole secretory curve and select the GH peak as an index of secretory capability. This procedure is time consuming and the determination of GH in several samples is necessary. The combined administration of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) plus growth hormone releasing peptide‐6 (GHRP‐6) is an effective test of GH secretion, and it has been unambiguously demonstrated that the elicited GH peak is capable of segregating normal GH secretion subjects from GH deficient patients on an individual basis. The GHRH + GHRP‐6 test biochemically classifies patients into three groups; those with a stimulated GH peak ≥ 20 µg/l are considered normal and those with peaks at ≤ 10 µg/l as GH deficient. The group comprising individuals between these parameters is considered uncertain, and the results are further interpreted according to clinical information, or by other tests.
Contesting Views on a Protected Area Conservation and Development in Ethiopia

This article discusses the contention between the state and local Guji people on issues of development and conservation of a Protected Area—Nech Sar National Park in southern Ethiopia. The park, which covers over 514 square kilometers, is a contested space between different actors, not only for its economic values, but it is also an arena of contestation over development and conservation perspectives. Since its inception as a national park in 1974, it has been administered with strict protectionist conservation approach, and later in 1990s, the ‘modernist’ development program was introduced in the form of ecotourism. On the contrary, the Guji people had strong determination for conservation embedded deep in their worldviews and beliefs. By tracing the genesis of the philosophies behind protected areas in Africa, particularly how it was adopted by the Ethiopian state and its implications, I argue that contrasts in environmental cosmologies between the western and indigenous perspectives have ultimately resulted in unsustainable resource management and also disrupted local livelihood conditions. Despite its existence as an independent country, Ethiopia also experienced similar conservation models that were imported to colonial Africa. In this article, I argue that conservation, particularly in the form of protected areas, is a form of hegemonic control over territories, people and their spaces (historical, economic, cultural and political spaces).
Nucleotide Sequence at Position 1081 of the Hemagglutinin-Neuraminidase Gene in Wild-Type Strains of Mumps Virus Is the Most Relevant Marker of Virulence

Mumps immunization has been effective at controlling epidemic mumps infection, but a high rate of vaccine-associated disease for Urabe AM9 has been documented ([6][1]). Since the mumps virus (MuV) hemmagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) antigen is the major surface protein and an important candidate with
Sourcenode: a Network sourced Approach to Network Music Performance (NMP)

This paper will seek to outline a Network Sourced Approach (NSA) to Network Music Performance (NMP). The NSA is governed through the software application SourceNode, which can be seen as a working example of a NMP enabler. The core focus of the NSA is that a master node will ‘source’ audio content from designated slave nodes, which are synchronised together by the master node. The SourceNode project is a specific type of NMP: a nodal-based performance environment that has been network synchronised through time signature, start/stop, loop point and tempo control. The NMP is assembled in a ‘star’ formation. This paper addresses the characteristics of a star topology within a synchronised environment and describes a standalone software application implemented for this type of nodal-based performance. The study will attempt to outline the implications, advantages and issues faced when implementing such a nodal-based framework and also offer a formal example of this NMP structure in practice, through the SourceNode project.
Kidney Disease After Heart and Lung Transplantation

Kidney disease is a commonly recognized complication of heart and lung transplantation and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. While the spectrum of kidney disease in this population is wide‐ranging, studies indicate that between 3% and 10% of these patients will ultimately develop end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). This review examines the risk factors for both acute and chronic kidney injury, with a particular emphasis on the role of calcineurin inhibitor‐mediated nephrotoxicity in both these settings. Against the background of current National Kidney Foundation Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) guidelines, we have further considered and recommended appropriate strategies for long‐term management of kidney disease‐related manifestations in heart and lung transplant recipients. Specific aspects addressed include retarding progressive renal injury and minimizing nephrotoxicity, as well as treatment of hypertension, hyperlipidemia and anemia. Finally, for patients in this population with advanced kidney disease, renal replacement therapy options are discussed. Based on the impact of chronic kidney disease on outcomes in both heart and lung recipients, we advocate early referral to a nephrologist for patients displaying evidence of significant renal dysfunction.
The further application of MTT-formazan colorimetry to studies on filarial worm viability.

Experiments have confirmed that MTT-formazan colorimetry in its simplest form (incubation of intact worms with MTT and direct visualisation of any formazan formed) can be readily applied to several species of filariae including Onchocerca volvulus. Data is presented which will assist the development of quantitative MTT reduction viability tests for a selection of the smaller filarial species. Assays of pieces of Onchocerca gutturosa and O. volvulus females have led us to tentatively conclude that the tips of filariae, particularly the anterior ends, may well be metabolically the most active part of the worm. Selective sampling of these regions for Onchocerca might therefore be a useful indicator for the viability of the parasite. An example of how MTT-formazan colorimetry has been applied to yield additional data to support motility observations on the in vitro survival of male O. gutturosa is also given. The in vitro timecourse of worm death caused by 10 microM CGP 20376 on Acanthocheilonema viteae females has been examined by MTT reduction and compared with 6 other non-subjective parameters. The results suggests that the parameters examined could be divided into two groups according to the time taken for CGP 20376 to cause 50% inhibition (t50) of the parameter. Fast response parameters had t50's between 1 and 6 h (motility indices, 14CO2 evolution, adenine uptake and leucine uptake), they are more sensitive measures of viability and indicate possible worm damage which may or may not be reversible. Slow response parameters had t50's between 34 and 48.5 h (lactate output, MTT reduction and adenine leakage), and are probably linked with severe degenerative changes and are indicative of worm death. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Predicting Eruptions at Mount St. Helens, June 1980 Through December 1982

Thirteen eruptions of Mount St. Helens between June 1980 and December 1982 were predicted tens of minutes to, more generally, a few hours in advance. The last seven of these eruptions, starting with that of mid-April 1981, were predicted between 3 days and 3 weeks in advance. Precursory seismicity, deformation of the crater floor and the lava dome, and, to a lesser extent, gas emissions provided telltale evidence of forthcoming eruptions. The newly developed capability for prediction reduced risk to life and property and influenced land-use decisions.
Influence of BES system on local and inter-area oscillation of power system with high penetration of PV plants

Integration of large-scale photovoltaic power plants is increasing significantly in many develop and developing countries. Although photovoltaic (PV) plants are renewable and environmental friendly, they can bring negative impact in the form of low frequency oscillation due to the uncertainty of power output and negligible inertia. Hence, battery energy storage systems (BESSs) are becoming an inevitable device in power systems. This paper investigates the influence of BESS on small signal stability in multi-machine power system with large-scale PV penetration. To analyze the impact of BESS, proportional gain controller of BESS has been varied. Eigenvalue, participation factor analyses and time domain simulation are implemented to assess the small signal stability of the system. From the simulation results, it is found that BESS's proportional gain controller variation has significant influence in local and inter-area oscillations modes of selected power system.
Magnesium and Intrauterine Growth Restriction

Background: The presence of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), could potentially lead to imbalances of Mg homeostasis, which have not yet been fully clarified. Objective: To describe, in term newborn (NB) without IUGR, ionized magnesium (iMg) and total magnesium (TMg) concentrations in umbilical cord blood, on the third and seventh days of life and to compare these values with those of term NB with IUGR. Methods: A prospective study was performed on 70 term NB divided into two groups: Group I—30 NB without IUGR and Group II—40 NB with IUGR. TMg concentrations were determined in sera by a classical colorimetric end point method (Cobas-Mira, Roche), and iMg was determined in whole blood by means of the Stat Profile-M analyzer (NOVA Biomedical). Results: We found that in term NB without IUGR, TMg concentrations increased during the first week of life and were lower than those of NB with IUGR in cord blood (p < 0.05). NB without IUGR had decreased iMg concentrations in comparison to NB with IUGR in all sampling times, i.e., cord blood, third and seventh days of life (p < 0.001). iMg concentrations remained unchanged during the study period. We also found that all NB enrolled in the study presented with low iMg concentrations (reference interval 0.4–0.6 mmol/L). Conclusion: The presence of IUGR may influence neonatal levels of magnesium, suggesting an effect on the modulation of this ion homeostasis, during the perinatal period.
Critical Rearing Parameters of Tetrastichus planipennisi (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) as Affected by Host Plant Substrate and Host-Parasitoid Group Structure

ABSTRACT In laboratory assays, we evaluated the potential impact of host plant substrate types, host-parasitoid group sizes (densities), and parasitoid-to-host ratios on select fitness parameters of the larval endoparasitoid Tetrastichus planipennisi Yang (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), newly introduced for biological control of emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), in the United States. Results from our study showed that offspring production and critical fitness parameters (body size and sex ratio) of T. planipennisi from parasitized emerald ash borer larvae are significantly influenced by host plant substrate type, host-parasitoid group size, parasitoid-to-host ratio, or a combination in the primary exposure assay. The number of both female and male T. planipennisi progeny was significantly greater when emerald ash borer larvae were inserted into tropical ash [Fraxinus uhdei (Wenz.) Lingelsh. ] logs rather than green ash (Fraxinus pensylvanica Marshall). When maintained at a constant 1:1 parasitoid-to-host ratio, assays with larger host-parasitoid group sizes (3:3–12:12) produced significantly greater numbers of both male and female offspring per parental wasp compared with those with the single host-parasitoid (1:1) group treatment. As the parasitoid-to-host ratio increased from 1:1 to 8:1 in the assay, the average brood size (number of offspring per parasitized emerald ash borer larva) increased significantly, whereas the average brood sex ratio (female to male) changed from being female-biased (6:1) to male-biased (1:2); body size of female offspring as measured by the length of ovipositor and left hind tibia also was reduced significantly. Based on these findings, we suggest that the current method of rearing T. planipennisi with artificially infested-emerald ash borer larvae use the tropical ash logs for emerald ash borer insertion, a larger (≥3:3) host-parasitoid group size and 1:1 parasitoid-to-host ratio in the primary parasitoid exposure assays.
Losartan Attenuates Human Monocyte-derived Dendritic Cell Immune Maturation via Downregulation of Lectin-like Oxidized Low-density Lipoprotein Receptor-1

Abstract: The angiotensin II receptor-1 blockers have generally been shown to have antiatherogenic effects, and dendritic cells (DCs) are the most efficient antigen presenting cells that play an active role in the development of atherosclerosis through inflammatory-immune responses. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the antiatherogenic effect of losartan, the first angiotensin II receptor-1 blockers, might partly be mediated by attenuating DCs maturation. In this study, we showed that oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) and angiotensin II (Ang II) could induce the maturation of human monocyte-derived DCs, stimulate CD83, HLA-DR expressions and IL-12, interferon-gamma secretions and increase the capacity of DCs to stimulate T-cell proliferation, which were suppressed by losartan. OxLDL could promote the autocrine secretion of Ang II by DCs and upregulate the expressions of 3 scavenger receptors SR-A, CD36, and LOX-1. Losartan reduced oxLDL-induced LOX-1 expression but not SR-A and CD36 expressions. Ang II could only upregulate the LOX-1 expression, which was reduced by losartan. OxLDL- and Ang II-induced upregulation of CD83 and secretion of IL-12 were all attenuated by LOX-1 neutralizing antibody. In conclusion, losartan could attenuate the oxLDL- and Ang II-induced immune maturation of human monocyte–derived DCs partly through downregulation of the LOX-1 expression.
The metabolism of free amino acids by washed suspensions of the rumen ciliate Entodinium caudatum.

Surmmary Washed suspensions of Entodinium caudatum, grown in vitro, incubated anaerobically in the presence of penicillin and neomycin, incorporated single amino acids into the cell protein without conversion to any other amino acid. The 14C-labelled components of the protozoal ‘pool’ and the medium were also investigated but no extensive catabolism of the amino acids observed. At low external concentrations the amino acids were taken up by an ‘active’ process, but above a critical concentration the amino acids entered the cell by passive diffusion and they have been divided into two groups depending on whether this critical concentration was approximately 0–0001 M or 0–001 M. The rate of amino acid uptake was not altered by the presence of inert particulate matter. Of the 75% of the cell volume occupied by liquid, approximately two-thirds was freely available to amino acids.
FDA Benchmark Medical Device Flow Models for CFD Validation

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is increasingly being used to develop blood-contacting medical devices. However, the lack of standardized methods for validating CFD simulations and blood damage predictions limits its use in the safety evaluation of devices. Through a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) initiative, two benchmark models of typical device flow geometries (nozzle and centrifugal blood pump) were tested in multiple laboratories to provide experimental velocities, pressures, and hemolysis data to support CFD validation. In addition, computational simulations were performed by more than 20 independent groups to assess current CFD techniques. The primary goal of this article is to summarize the FDA initiative and to report recent findings from the benchmark blood pump model study. Discrepancies between CFD predicted velocities and those measured using particle image velocimetry most often occurred in regions of flow separation (e.g., downstream of the nozzle throat, and in the pump exit diffuser). For the six pump test conditions, 57% of the CFD predictions of pressure head were within one standard deviation of the mean measured values. Notably, only 37% of all CFD submissions contained hemolysis predictions. This project aided in the development of an FDA Guidance Document on factors to consider when reporting computational studies in medical device regulatory submissions. There is an accompanying podcast available for this article. Please visit the journal’s Web site (www.asaiojournal.com) to listen.
Touch and go: tying TonB to transport

The TonB system of Gram‐negative bacteria appears to exist for the purpose of transducing the protonmotive force energy from the cytoplasmic membrane, where it is generated, to the outer membrane, where it is needed for active transport of iron siderophores, vitamin B12 and, in pathogens, iron from host‐binding proteins. In this review, we bring the reader up to date on the developments in the field since the authors each wrote reviews in this journal in 1990.