Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Signalling by potassium: another second messenger to add to the list?

Cytosolic potassium homeostasis and the ability of various tissues to retain potassium under stress have emerged as important for salinity tolerance in plants, but recent evidence suggests that stress-induced K+ efflux may be equally important in mediating growth and development under hostile conditions. Here, the evidence is assessed, and the already-proposed concept of potassium efflux being a switch between metabolic and defence responses is developed. A new model is put forward which suggests signalling roles for cytosolic K+ changes, alongside well-known cytosolic Ca2+ and ROS ‘signatures’.
Ciprofibrate stimulates the gastrin-producing cell by acting luminally on antral PPAR α Running head : Mechanisms of ciprofibrate-induced hypergastrinemia

Background: The lipid-lowering drug ciprofibrate stimulates gastrin-producing cells in the rat stomach without lowering gastric acidity. Although suggested to be a luminal action on antral PPARα, the mechanism is still not fully elucidated. Methods: Gastric bypass was surgically prepared in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Gastric bypassed and sham-operated rats were either given ciprofibrate (50 mg/kg/day in methocel) or vehicle alone for 7 weeks. PPARα knockout (KO) and wildtype (WT) mice were either given ciprofibrate (500 mg/kg/day in methocel) or vehicle alone for two weeks. The concentration of gastrin in blood was analyzed. Antral G cell density and gastrin mRNA abundance was determined by using immunostaining and Northern blot. Results: Ciprofibrate did not raise plasma gastrin or G cell density in gastric bypassed rats, although the gastrin mRNA level was slightly increased. In contrast, ciprofibrate induced hypergastrinemia, a 50% increase in G cell density and a 3-fold increase in gastrin mRNA in sham-operated rats. In PPARα KO mice, ciprofibrate did not raise G cell density or the gastrin mRNA level. The serum gastrin level was reduced by ciprofibrate. In WT mice, ciprofibrate induced hypergastrinemia, a doubling of G cell density and a 3-fold increase in gastrin mRNA. Comparing animals dosed with vehicle only, PPARα KO-mice had higher serum gastrin concentration than WT-mice. Conclusions: The main effects of ciprofibrate on G cells are mediated from the antrum lumen and the mechanism is dependent on the PPARα. The results indicate that the PPARα may have a role in the physiological regulation of gastrin release.
Induction of Retinal Progenitors and Neurons from Mammalian Müller Glia under Defined Conditions*

Background: Mammalian Müller glia are mitotic quiescent and committed. Results: Loss of p53 enhances Müller glia to proliferate and become progenitor-like cells, which differentiated to photoreceptors in vitro and incorporated into retina after transplantation. Conclusion: Progenitor potential can be induced in mammalian Müller glia. Significance: Induction of Müller glia stemness may serve as an exciting strategy for retinal repair and regeneration. Vision impairment caused by loss of retinal neurons affects millions of people worldwide, and currently, there is no effective treatment. Müller glia of mammalian retina may represent an under-recognized and potential source for regeneration of a wide range of retinal cell types, including retinal ganglion cells and photoreceptors. Here, we demonstrated that mouse Müller glia cells have the capacity to be reprogrammed into the retinal neuronal cell fate and are competent to give rise to photoreceptors under a defined culture condition. Inactivation of p53 released proliferation restriction of Müller glia and significantly enhanced the induction of retinal progenitor from Müller glia in culture. Moreover, following the ocular transplantation, the Müller glia-derived progenitors were differentiated toward the fates of photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells. Together, these results demonstrate the feasibility of using Müller glia as a potential source for retinal repair and regeneration.
Heterogeneity and dynamics in individual wages and labour market histories

Esta tesis doctoral propone nuevos modelos y metodos de estimacion para el analisis de los salarios y de los historiales laborales de los individuos desde una perspectiva dinamica. En el estudio de estos dos fenomenos, claves en el desarrollo profesional de los trabajadores, se utilizan datos de panel, esto es, observaciones de individuos que se repiten a lo largo del tiempo. Por un lado, en los datos individuales observamos que los salarios evolucionan durante la vida laboral de los trabajadores. Dicha evolucion sera diferente segun la fase del ciclo economico en la que se encuentre la economia asi como en funcion de distintas caracteristicas de los individuos, tanto caracteristicas observables para el econometra (sexo, edad, nivel educativo, y muchas otras) como inobservables (como habilidad o suerte). Por otro lado, tambien se observa que el estatus laboral de los trabajadores cambia, pasando de la situacion de empleado a no empleado, o de un puesto de trabajo a otro, ya sea voluntaria o involuntariamente. Estas transiciones de entrada y salida del mercado de trabajo, o de cambio de un empleo a otro, son frecuentes y, de nuevo, varian a nivel individual. Por tanto, el punto de partida de esta tesis es la idea de que diferencias en los historiales laborales individuales pueden ayudar a entender la dinamica y heterogeneidad en la evolucion de los salarios. Por ejemplo, en el caso de hombres y mujeres, esperariamos que las diferencias por sexos en historiales laborales ayudasen a explicar una parte relevante de la brecha salarial residual. De hecho, en la literatura encontramos multiples teorias que conectan la movilidad laboral con la existencia y persistencia de dicho diferencial por sexos a lo largo del tiempo. Asi, se afirma que si la movilidad laboral de las mujeres esta mas restringida debido a variables como el lugar de residencia del marido o el cuidado de ninos, las ganancias salariales predichas por los modelos de busqueda y
Change to atazanavir/ritonavir treatment improves lipids but not endothelial function in patients on stable antiretroviral therapy

Objective:Protease inhibitors and other antiretroviral drugs have been associated with dyslipidemia, endothelial dysfunction, and increased cardiovascular disease risk. The protease inhibitor atazanavir has an advantageous lipid profile; we studied its effects on arterial function and other metabolic and inflammatory cardiovascular disease risk factors. Design:Prospective, randomized, multinational trial in HIV-infected patients receiving stable protease inhibitor-based therapy with plasma HIV RNA less than 500 copies/ml and fasting low-density lipoprotein cholesterol more than 130 mg/dl, or triglycerides more than 200 mg/dl. Methods:Patients were randomized to continue their current protease inhibitor or switch the protease inhibitor to atazanavir and continue ritonavir if given as a protease inhibitor booster for 24 weeks. Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation, lipoproteins, and inflammatory and metabolic markers were measured at baseline, week 12, and week 24. Median changes within (signed rank test) and between (Wilcoxon test) arms were calculated. Results:Twenty-six patients switched to atazanavir (all continued on ritonavir); 24 remained on their protease inhibitor regimen. Median CD4 cell count was 499 cells/μl, total cholesterol 204 mg/dl, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol 122 mg/dl, and triglycerides 244 mg/dl. There were no significant changes in flow-mediated dilation after 12 and 24 weeks. At 24 weeks, significant changes in the atazanavir vs. continued protease inhibitor group were observed for total cholesterol (−25 vs. +1.5 mg/dl, P = 0.009), triglycerides (−58 vs. +3.5 mg/dl, P = 0.013), and nonhigh-density lipoprotein cholesterol (−27 vs. −0.5 mg/dl, P = 0.014). Conclusion:In dyslipidemic individuals with suppressed HIV RNA on stable therapy, changing the protease inhibitor to atazanavir/ritonavir for 24 weeks improved lipids; however, endothelial function, inflammatory, and metabolic markers did not change.
Social and behavioral consequences of alcohol consumption and expectancy: a meta-analysis.

A meta-analysis was conducted on research investigating the effects of alcohol consumption and expectancy within the balanced-placebo design. Preliminary results indicated that both alcohol and expectancy have significant, although heterogeneous effects on behavior. Subsequent analyses were conducted to determine the factors responsible for the heterogeneity of effects. At the highest level of analysis, alcohol expectancy had strong effects on relatively deviant social behaviors and minimal effects on nonsocial behaviors. Alcohol consumption showed the opposite pattern of effects. The principal effects associated with alcohol expectancy involved increased alcohol consumption and increased sexual arousal in response to erotic stimuli. On the other hand, alcohol consumption led to significant impairment of information processing and motor performance, induced a specific set of physical sensations, resulted in general improvements of mood, and tended to increase aggression. Finally, across all studies it was observed that alcohol consumption and expectancy interacted no more frequently than would be expected by chance. These results have implications for both the theories and methods of contemporary alcohol research.
Status of gastrointestinal parasites in Red Panda of Nepal

Red pandas are known to be highly susceptible to endoparasites, which can have a prominent impact on the population dynamics of this endangered species. There are very limited published reports on prevalence and risk of parasites in wild populations of red panda, especially localized reports. This study attempts to provide an in-depth insight of the status of endoparasites in red pandas, which is critical for strengthening conservation efforts. A total of 272 fecal samples were collected through systematic sampling across the red panda distribution range in Nepal and coprological examination was completed using standard techniques. It was followed by an estimation of prevalence and mean intensity of parasites, as well as statistical analysis, which was carried out using R statistical software. Parasite prevalence was documented in 90.80% (n = 247) out of 272 samples examined which includes seven different species along with three genera of parasites belonging to Protozoans (3 species), Cestodes (1 genus, 1 species) and Nematodes (2 genera, 3 species). Nematodes predominated in all infected samples (87.62%). Prevalence of Ancyclostoma duodenale (n = 227, 70.06%), having a mean intensity of 3.45 ± 2.88 individuals per sample, was observed, followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (n = 19, 5.86%) and Entamoeba histolytica (n = 24, 7.41%). Eight variables for assessing the determinants of infestation were tested: protected areas; non-protected areas; aspect; elevation; slope; and distance to water sources, herding stations, and settlements. Only the settlement displayed significant association (β = −1534e−04, t = − 2.192, p = 0.0293) though each parasite species displayed dissimilar association with different variables. This study indicates the urgent need of improving existing herding practice through habitat zonation, rotational grazing, medication of livestock, and prohibition of open defecation within and around red panda habitat.
The Role of RANKL (TRANCE/TNFSF11), a Tumor Necrosis Factor Family Member, in Skeletal Development: Effects of Gene Knockout and Transgenic Rescue

We report the skeletal manifestations of restoring RANKL (TNFSF11/TRANCE; see foot note* on nomenclature) expression in null mice using a lymphocyte-specific promoter. RANKL was discovered independently by immunologists and bone researchers by virtue of its essential roles in lymph node organogenesis, normal cellular immunity, and osteoclastogenesis. "Rescue" of RANKL knockout mice by a T- and B-cell expressed transgene reversed many immunological manifestations of the knockout, while it had highly selective effects on the skeletal pathology. RANKL-null mice exhibit severe osteopetrosis, no tooth eruption, markedly reduced skeletal growth, and growth plate chondrodystrophy. The transgene induced tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) positive cells in long bones as early as 3 days postpartum, restored marrow spaces in long bones, produced lamellar bone in the diaphyses, and restored osteoclasts at many endosteal sites, but not in periosteum nor the jaws. It did not improve the chondrodystrophy, chondroosseous junction defects, or tooth eruption. The ends of limb and axial skeletal elements remained highly sclerotic while diaphyses became osteopenic, and growth retardation persisted. Together, these results demonstrate the importance of local delivery of RANKL for many skeletal processes.
The Endoscopically Measured Effects of Airway Maneuvers and the Lateral Position on Airway Patency in Anesthetized Children with Adenotonsillar Hypertrophy

Obstruction of the upper airway is a major challenge for anesthesiologists administering general anesthesia in spontaneously breathing children with adenotonsillar hypertrophy. Lateral positioning is a simple treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. In this study, we examined the effects of body position shifting and common airway maneuvers such as chin lift and jaw thrust on airway patency (stridor score and upper airway dimensions by endoscopy) in anesthetized children scheduled for adenotonsillectomy. Eighteen children aged 1–11 yr were anesthetized with sevoflurane. During spontaneous breathing with 5% sevoflurane and 100% oxygen, upper airway dimensions and stridor score were recorded. After baseline recording, chin lift and jaw thrust were performed in both the supine and the lateral decubitus position. Chin lift, jaw thrust, and lateral position increased the airway dimensions and improved the stridor score. Moreover, lateral positioning enhanced the effects of these airway maneuvers on airway patency. We concluded that lateral positioning combined with airway maneuvers provided better airway patency for anesthetized children with adenotonsillar hypertrophy.
Interobserver agreement in the cytologic grading of atypia in neoplastic pancreatic mucinous cysts with the 2‐tiered approach

The accurate cytologic grading of epithelial atypia in fine‐needle aspirates of pancreatic mucinous cysts has important implications for clinical management. The Papanicolaou Society of Cytopathology has recommended a 2‐tiered system of low‐grade (LG) and high‐grade (HG) for grading this atypia. Using this approach, this study examined the interobserver agreement within a group of cytopathologists at the Cleveland Clinic.
REPORT OF A POSTAL SURVEY OF PATIENTS WITH ARTIFICIAL LIMBS IN SYDNEY

UNDER the auspices of the Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service of the Department of Social Services, a survey was undertaken to endeavour to establish certain facts concerning persons who had obtained artificial limbs. Initial planning of the survey was the work of the late Dr. W. J. Morris, sometime Rehabilitation Medical Consultant. The general objects were to ascertain facts concerning the circumstances of amputation and the patient's fate after limb-fitting. In particular, it was hoped to elicit information about phantom pain, about professional aspects of the surgery of amputation, and about vocational aspects and other matters.
The expression of CD 56 antigen is associated with poor prognosis in patients with acute myeloid leukemia

Suzane Dal Bó1 Ricardo Machado Xavier Background: The expression of CD56 is considered a bad prognostic factor for overall survival, lower rates or short complete remission and extramedullary invasion but the results are controversial. The importance of validating new prognostic parameters in acute leukemias was the reason to investigate the CD56 expression in blast cells of patients with acute myeloid leukemia. Methods: A cohort of 48 patients treated at Hospital de Clinicas de Porto Alegre and diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia as classified by the French-American-British group (FAB) criteria using cell morphology, cytochemistry and flow cytometry were evaluated. Results: Eight cases (16.7%) were CD56 positive without correlation to age or gender. The highest incidence of CD56 positivity was in FAB subtypes M4 and M5. The death rate during induction was not significantly different between patients with and without CD56 expression (62.5% vs. 27.5%; p-value = 0.097). However, patients that expressed CD56 had significantly lower overall survival than those who did not (mean 4.0 months vs. 14.5 months; p-value = 0.03). Conclusions: The data suggest that expression of CD56 in acute myeloid leukemia may be indicative of poor prognosis because it is associated with a shorter overall survival. The death rate during induction was not significantly different despite an apparent difference in proportions between groups.
Isolation of Candida Protoplasts from a Case of Candida Endocarditis

Rosner, Richard (St. Joseph's Hospital, Paterson, N.J.). Isolation of Candida protoplasts from a case of Candida endocarditis. J. Bacteriol. 91:1320–1326. 1966. —A case of endocarditis caused by Candida tropicalis is described. Even though the patient was receiving adequate therapy, and all routine blood cultures were negative for growth, the patient continued to give clinical evidence of active, progressive endocarditis. The isolation of osmotically fragile bodies from blood cultures placed in an osmotically controlled medium is described in detail. The role of these bodies, called protoplasts, in the active disease process of this patient is discussed in relation to the criteria for the implication of protoplasts in the disease process. Several explanations as to what caused the in vivo formation of protoplasts of C. tropicalis in this patient are discussed.
Multiple model MIMO predictive control for variable speed variable pitch wind turbines

A multivariable control strategy based on model predictive control techniques for the control of variable speed variable pitch wind turbines is proposed. The proposed control strategy is described for the whole operating region of the wind turbine (both partial and full load regimes). Pitch angle and generator torque are controlled simultaneously to maximize energy capture, mitigate drive train transient loads and smooth the power generated while reducing the pitch actuator activity. This has the effect of improving the efficiency and the power quality of the electrical power generated, and of increasing the life time of the system's mechanical parts. Furthermore, safe and acceptable operation of the system is guaranteed by incorporating most of the constraints on the physical variables of the WECS in the controller design. In order to cope with nonlinearities in the WECS and continuous variations in the operating point, a multiple model predictive controller is suggested which provides near optimal performance throughout the whole operating region.
Anxiety about Foreign Language among Students in French, Spanish, and German Classes

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether anxiety reported by students while studying foreign language courses in college was similar for 253 college students from a variety of disciplinary backgrounds, who were enrolled in either Spanish, French, or German classes. Analysis indicated no difference in anxiety about foreign languages among students in the three classes. In addition, a moderate negative relationship was found between anxiety about learning a foreign language and achievement for all three classes. Recommendations for research are made, including investigating anxiety about other foreign languages.
On base change for odd orthogonal groups

Let Y be an orthogonal space over Q of rank 2n + 1 > 5 and signature (2n, 1) over R. Let G = SO(rY) be the special orthogonal group of Y, and G(A) its points in the adele ring A of Q. Let Xr be a cuspidal automorphic representation of G(A). Then 7 = &7rp is a restricted tensor product of local representations with roo an irreducible admissible representation of G(R) = S0(2n, 1 ), and for all finite p not in a finite set S the group G (Qp) is split and the representation trp is unramified, i.e., there is a non-zero vector in tp fixed by the compact subgroup G(Zp) . If K is a real quadratic extension of Q with adele ring AK, we say that an irreducible admissible representation rl = 0HV of G(AK) is a base change lift of ir provided that the local components JIv of rl satisfy the following conditions:
Money and Housing: Evidence for the Euro Area and the Us

This paper examines the relation between money and housing variables in the euro area and in the US. Our empirical model is based on a standard money demand relation which is augmented by housing market variables. In doing so, co-integrated money demand relationships can be established for both the euro area and the US. Furthermore, we find evidence for asset inflation channels, that is, liquidity fuels housing market developments.
Pregnancy in Non-Communicating Rudimentary Horn of A Unicornuate Uterus

Diagnosis and management of pre-rupture stage of the pregnant horn are difficult and usually missed on a routine ul- trasound scan. Also most cases are detected after rupture of pregnant horn. We presented a 28-year-oldG2 L1 woman with diagnosis of rudimentary horn pregnancy (RHP) at 14 weeks of gestation. We diagnosed her with a normal intrauterine pregnancy, whereas a pregnancy in a right-sided non-communicating rudimentary horn with massive he- moperitoneum was later discovered on laparotomy. RHP has a high risk of death for mother, so there must be a strong clinical suspicion for the diagnosis of RHP. Although there is a major advancement in field of diagnostic ultrasound and other imaging modalities, prenatal diagnosis has remained elusive and a laparotomy surgery is considered as a definitive diagnosis.
Meal patterns and childhood obesity

Purpose of reviewTo summarize the literature concerning the relationship between meal patterns and childhood obesity. Literature searches of MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library were performed in October 2009 for studies published in the last 18–24 months. Recent findingsAvailable data indicate that not only meal composition but also some components that form a specific meal pattern can promote childhood obesity. Reducing meal and snack frequency, especially breakfast skipping, seem to be such components. On the contrary, limiting consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and snack foods (defined as high-fat, energy-dense foods) may be associated with a reduction in the risk of obesity. SummaryThere is still much to be learned about specific aspects of the association between meal patterns and obesity. Although current knowledge does not allow one to draw any definitive conclusions, it provides a solid basis for further research.