Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Adipocyte-speci fi c Hypoxia-inducible gene 2 promotes fat deposition and diet-induced insulin resistance

Objective: Adipose tissue relies on lipid droplet (LD) proteins in its role as a lipid-storing endocrine organ that controls whole body metabolism. Hypoxia-inducible Gene 2 (Hig2) is a recently identified LD-associated protein in hepatocytes that promotes hepatic lipid storage, but its role in the adipocyte had not been investigated. Here we tested the hypothesis that Hig2 localization to LDs in adipocytes promotes adipose tissue lipid deposition and systemic glucose homeostasis. Method: White and brown adipocyte-deficient (Hig2 Adiponection creþ) and selective brown/beige adipocyte-deficient (Hig2 Ucp1 creþ) mice were generated to investigate the role of Hig2 in adipose depots. Additionally, we used multiple housing temperatures to investigate the role of active brown/beige adipocytes in this process. Results: Hig2 localized to LDs in SGBS cells, a human adipocyte cell strain. Mice with adipocyte-specific Hig2 deficiency in all adipose depots demonstrated reduced visceral adipose tissue weight and increased glucose tolerance. This metabolic effect could be attributed to brown/beige adipocyte-specific Hig2 deficiency since Hig2 Ucp1 creþ mice displayed the same phenotype. Furthermore, when adipocyte-deficient Hig2 mice were moved to thermoneutral conditions in which non-shivering thermogenesis is deactivated, these improvements were abrogated and glucose intolerance ensued. Adipocyte-specific Hig2 deficient animals displayed no detectable changes in adipocyte lipolysis or energy expenditure, suggesting that Hig2 may not mediate these metabolic effects by restraining lipolysis in adipocytes. Conclusions: We conclude that Hig2 localizes to LDs in adipocytes, promoting adipose tissue lipid deposition and that its selective deficiency in active brown/beige adipose tissue mediates improved glucose tolerance at 23 C. Reversal of this phenotype at thermoneutrality in the absence of detectable changes in energy expenditure, adipose mass, or liver triglyceride suggests that Hig2 deficiency triggers a deleterious endocrine or neuroendocrine pathway emanating from brown/beige fat cells. 2016 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier GmbH. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).
Epidemiology of tobacco use among Lumbee Indians in North Carolina.

BACKGROUND Little is known regarding tobacco use among the Lumbee Indians in southeastern North Carolina, despite high prevalence of use and ties to tobacco-related agriculture. This report describes current and early childhood tobacco use in this population. METHODS A cross-sectional telephone survey of 400 adult Lumbee Indians was done in Pembroke, Robeson County, NC. Information was collected on demographics, tobacco use, knowledge and practices related to tobacco agriculture, and ceremonial tobacco use. RESULTS 17.8% and 18.2% of the sample reported current and former smokeless tobacco (ST) use, and 26% and 19.5% reported current and former cigarette (CG) use, respectively. 17.3% reported ever use of both CG and ST. Current ST use was associated with older age, childhood involvement in tobacco-related agriculture, and less education. Current CG use was associated with younger age, male sex, less education, having never been married, infrequent church attendance, and fewer close friends or relatives. Early initiation of ST and CG use was more common among women, while early initiation of CG use was more common among persons who were younger and had lower levels of education. CONCLUSIONS Current ST use is unusually common among Lumbee adults, while CG use reflects rates found in other populations. These data show different patterns of CG use and ST use, and suggest that strategies for tobacco use cessation must target each specific product.
Interactive Segmentation Based on Component-trees

Component-trees associate to a discrete grey-level image a descriptive data structure induced by the inclusion relation between the binary components obtained at successive level-sets. This article presents an original interactive segmentation methodology based on component-trees. It consists of the extraction of a subset of the image component-tree, enabling the generation of a binary object which fits at best (with respect to the grey-level structure of the image) a given binary target selected beforehand in the image. A proof of the algorithmic efficiency of this methodological scheme is proposed. Concrete application examples on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data emphasise its actual computational efficiency and its usefulness for interactive segmentation of real images.
Sistema Renina-Angiotensina tisular/extracelular y sistema Renina-Angiotensina intracrino/intracelular en la Sustancia Negra. Posible papel en la enfermedad de Parkinson

El sistema Renina-Angiotensina (SRA) ha sido considerado clasicamente como un sistema hormonal o circulante encargado de la regulacion de la presion arterial, pero actualmente se sabe que muchos tejidos tienen un SRA local, incluido el cerebro. Se ha demostrado la presencia de componentes del SRA en los ganglios basales, concretamente en el sistema nigroestriatal dopaminergico, implicado en el desarrollo de la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP). Estudios recientes apoyan la existencia de un SRA intracrino o intracelular funcional que abre nuevas perspectivas para conocer su funcionamiento, concretamente, a nivel mitocondrial, presenta especial importancia puesto que se ha demostrado que la disfuncion mitocondrial juega un papel fundamental en la degeneracion de las neuronas dopaminergicas y en la patogenesis de la EP. El envejecimiento es el mayor factor de riesgo para la EP. Ademas, se ha demostrado que la falta de estrogenos, que se produce durante la menopausia, aumenta el riesgo de sufrir esta enfermedad. Las alteraciones en la interaccion de la dopamina y la angiotensina tambien juegan un papel importante en la vulnerabilidad dopaminergica. De acuerdo con el papel fundamental que ejerce el SRA en la degeneracion dopaminergica, se ha encontrado una mayor actividad de este sistema en la sustancia negra de modelos animales con mayor vulnerabilidad dopaminergica. La manipulacion del SRA cerebral podria constituir una estrategia neuroprotectora eficaz contra la vulnerabilidad dopaminergica, y por tanto, contra la progresion de la EP.
Business Value Creation from IT Investments: towards a process theory of IT governance

The history of Information Systems (IS) as a discipline has been accompanied by vigorous debate on how, and indeed whether, IT investments contribute to improving organisational performance and hence in delivering value to the organisation. A number of models have been put forward to describe the relationship between IT expenditure and business value. This paper considers one such model, the process model of Soh and Markus (1995), and although this model has many attractive features, it is perhaps deficient in the way in which it links IT investment proposals back to business objectives, drivers and requirements. A modification of this model is thus proposed, and empirically assessed through qualitative interviews with CIOs in large organisations to understand the practises and processes by which they assert that business value is achieved through IT investments. The modified model was largely supported by the empirical study, but an additional factor, that of the need for and importance of sound IT governance processes and procedures to be in place if business value is to be derived form IT expenditure.
Population substructures in the soil invertebrate Orchesella cincta, as revealed by microsatellite and TE‐AFLP markers

Microsatellite and three enzyme–amplified fragment length polymorphism (TE‐AFLP) DNA markers were used to describe the population genetic structure in the soil dwelling collembolan Orchesella cincta (L.). Two forests were sampled according to a three‐level nested hierarchical design, with fixed distances among samples within a parcel and among parcels within a forest. The largest component of variation was found at the smallest scale, within parcels (77–97%), while the smallest component of variation was found between forests. The two different methods to study population structure indicated a similar allocation of variance. Population genetic substructuring was revealed between samples on a scale of 50 m; the degree of substructuring however, varied between parcels and forests. One forest showed a high degree of structure as revealed by microsatellites, while another showed a low degree of structure. A significant deviation from random‐mating (average FIS = 0.23) over the two forests was detected. Two of 18 samples showed a difference in population genetic structure between males and females. We discuss the fact that the population genetic structure of O. cincta is significantly affected by long‐range dispersal, even though it is a small and wingless insect. This interpretation is supported by observations on tree‐climbing behaviour in this species that may facilitate air dispersal. As a consequence, the assumption that migration a priori may be neglected in demographic analysis of O. cincta is incorrect.
Repatriation is associated with isthmus cingulate cortex reduction in community-dwelling elderly

Abstract Objectives: The impact of stressful life events (SLEs) on brain anatomy is poorly understood, particularly its long-term neural consequences. We tested the hypothesis that a serious SLE (repatriation of French citizens living in Algeria in 1962) is associated with changes in brain regions previously implicated in psychopathology (hippocampus, amygdala, corpus callosum, prefrontal cortex, anterior, posterior and isthmus cingulate cortex (ICC)) in a large elderly population. Methods: Structural magnetic resonance imaging was used to acquire anatomical scans from 82 subjects repatriated from Algeria and 339 subjects without this experience or any other trauma. We derived quantitative regional estimates of subcortical volume using FreeSurfer Software. The General Linear Model was used to test the association between repatriation and changes in brain volume adjusted for confounders (gender, age, education, total brain volume, traumatic brain injury, Mini Mental State Examination score at baseline, current and lifetime major depression and recent SLEs). Results: Repatriation to France was associated with reduced volume in a number of areas; however, only left and right ICC survived to false discovery rate correction. Conclusions: In the elderly a previous (approximately 40 years before) serious SLE could be associated with long-term volume reduction in the ICC, independently of psychopathology.
TOOTH FORM AND FUNCTION IN TEMNOSPONDYL AMPHIBIANS : RELATIONSHIP OF SHAPE TO APPLIED STRESS

Temnospondyl amphibians were important members of the tetrapod fauna and the terrestrial vertebrate food chain during the Paleozoic and early Mesozoic. The “labyrinthodont” teeth of these amphibians are not simple cones; they exhibit an overall tooth form that is relatively complex and generally conserved over large temporal and phylogenetic ranges. We assess the functional morphology of these teeth and show the relationship of tooth shape to applied stress in three species of temnospondyl amphibians: the Pennsylvanian-Permian eryopid Eryops; the Middle Triassic capitosaurid Eocyclotosaurus; and the Late Triassic metoposaurid Koskinonodon. Beam theory was employed to develop strength profiles of the study teeth, which were then compared to their bending moment and shear stress profiles. These profiles are a graphic representation of the stress and strength along the longitudinal tooth axis at any position along the length of the tooth crown. This analysis showed that the teeth were best adapted to loading in the labiolingual direction, and that their strength varied as a cubic parabola, increasing from tip to base. In labial aspect the teeth have an approximately triangular shape. When such a tooth has penetrated a prey item and is loaded in the labiolingual direction, its triangular shape produces a uniformly varying load along the tooth length that results in a cubic parabola bending moment profile. Whereas no correlation was seen between tooth strength profiles and shear stress profiles, the bending moment stress profiles and tooth strength profiles were identical. Thus, shape has evolved to resist the applied bending moment while maintaining good penetration and crack propagation in hard parts of the prey items and for optimal performance during normal usage rather than to survive a relatively rare catastrophic impact.
PERSONALIDADE E PREFERÊNCIA POR MÉTODOS DE ENSINO: UM ESTUDO COM GRADUANDOS EM ADMINISTRAÇÃO

A diversificacao de metodos de ensino em Administracao e questao fundamental para o desenvolvimento do aluno, na medida em que a escolha correta de estimulos influencia consideravelmente o aprendizado. A eficacia dos metodos utilizados depende de muitas variaveis – uma delas e a diferenca individual dos estudantes em termos de sua personalidade e estilo de aprendizagem. Este trabalho analisa a preferencia de 108 alunos de graduacao em Administracao pelos diversos metodos de ensino, utilizando-se da caracterizacao de Jung para analisar suas diferencas de personalidade. Os resultados exploram as diferencas entre os alunos com tipos psicologicos diferentes. Uma das descobertas mostra que os individuos extrovertidos consideram mais eficaz seu aprendizado quando estao expostos a metodos mais ativos de ensino, como as discussoes em grupo, e tendem a preterir metodos mais introspectivos, como as aulas expositivas com o uso de data-show – tao comuns nas escolas de Administracao na atualidade.
NDRG2: A Candidate Tumor Suppressor Gene in Search of a Function

NDRG2 is a recently described member of the NDRG family, with suggested roles in neurodegenerative disease, cancer and cell differentiation. Expression levels of NDRG2 have been shown to be reduced or absent in a range of cancer cell lines and tumor types, leading to a suggested function as a tumor suppressor gene. This is supported by two key observations: re-expression of NDRG2 protein in cancer cell lines leads to a reduction in cell growth, and expression levels of NDRG2 mRNA correlate inversely with the clinical grade of various tumors. However, very little is currently known about the function of the NDRG2 protein. All members of the NDRG family share an α/βhydrolase fold, but the amino acids of the catalytic triad are poorly conserved, suggesting that the NDRG protein members lack enzymatic activity. In this review, we will summarise the current knowledge on NDRG2 with respect to cancer, including expression patterns and regulation, possible links to apoptotic signalling pathways, hypoxia, cell cycle control and finally, how we can use this information on NDRG2 with regards to cancer management.
A Pilot Study of Induction Triplet Chemotherapy Followed by Minimally Invasive Surgery for Stage 3-4 Resectable Oropharyngeal Cancer

The current study reports the results of an open label pilot study evaluating a novel treatment protocol for patients with locally advanced head and neck cancer. Patients received induction chemotherapy and those who had a clinical complete response to induction chemotherapy were offered trans-oral nidusectomy for the primary lesion and neck node dissection. If a pathologic complete response was achieved, patients were then observed. Patients not achieving a clinical or pathologic complete response to induction therapy were subsequently treated with chemoradiation.
Mansonella ozzardi and its vectors in the New World: an update with emphasis on the current situation in Haiti

Abstract Mansonella ozzardi (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) is a little studied filarial nematode. This human parasite, transmitted by two families of dipteran vectors, biting midges (most of them members of the genus Culicoides) and blackflies (genus Simulium), is endemic to the Neotropical regions of the New World. With a patchy geographical distribution from southern Mexico to north-western Argentina, human infection with M. ozzardi is highly prevalent in some of the Caribbean islands, along riverine communities in the Amazon Basin, and on both sides of the border between Bolivia and Argentina. Studies conducted in Haiti between 1974 and 1984 allowed the first complete description of the adult worm and permitted clarification of the taxonomic position of this filarial species. This paper reports the known geographical distribution of M. ozzardi in Neotropical regions of the Americas, and focuses on the current situation in Haiti where this filariasis remains a completely neglected public health problem.
Anatomy “steeplechase” online: Necessity sometimes is the catalyst for innovation

In most medical schools, summative practical examination in Anatomy usually takes the format of a “steeplechase” (“spotters” or “bell ringers”) conducted in the gross anatomy laboratory using cadaveric material and prosected specimens. Recently, we have started to administer similar examinations online using the quiz facility in WebCT™ and Moodle™. This article chronicles how we conceived and developed this method within the peculiar nature of our medical school setting. Over a five year period, practical summative examinations were organized as “steeplechase” online. The online examinations were administered using WebCT™ and later Moodle™ learning management software. Assessment “objects” were created from the materials available for anatomy teaching. These were digital images of cadaveric materials, radiological, and prosected specimens. In addition, short video clips of 30 seconds duration demonstrating muscle action were produced. These objects were optimized for online viewing and then uploaded onto the learning management software. A bank of questions (multiple choice or short answer type) was then created and linked to the assessment objects. These were used in place of the steeplechase in the computer laboratory. This method serves a crucial purpose in places like ours where continuous availability of human cadavers is impossible. Although time consuming initially, once questions are setup online, future retrieval, and administration becomes convenient especially where there are large batches of students. In addition, the online environment offers distinct advantages with regards to image quality, psychometric analysis of the examination and reduction of staff preparation time compared to traditional “steeplechase. ” Anat Sci Educ 4: 115–118, 2011. © 2010 American Association of Anatomists.
Exploring attitudes toward eating disorders among elite athlete support personnel

To date, little is known about the beliefs, attitudes, and experiences of athlete support personnel (ASP) working in elite sport toward disordered eating (DE) and eating disorders (EDs). This study seeks to explore this area of mental health, employing an attribution model of stigma as a conceptual lens. Interviews were undertaken with 14 service providers (seven males and seven females) working in high‐performance sport in Ireland. In contrast to previous research in the general population, findings revealed that sport‐based personnel, in the main, did not hold the individual responsible for the development of their eating disorder. The predominant emotional response of those who had worked with an athlete with a known or suspected eating disorder was anxiety and worry. In line with the findings of previous studies with other health professionals, negative views on the prognosis of those with EDs were expressed by the ASP. Furthermore, confidentiality was found to be a significant barrier to bringing athletes' disclosure of problematic eating or exercise behavior to the fore. The findings of this study add to the limited research exploring attitudes toward EDs in sport and highlights the importance of greater education and openness toward this particular mental health problem.
Phosphorylation‐induced torsion‐angle strain in the active center of HPr, detected by NMR and restrained molecular dynamics refinement

The structure of the phosphorylated form of the histidine‐containing phosphocarrier protein HPr from Escherichia coli has been solved by NMR and compared with that of unphosphorylated HPr. The structural changes that occur upon phosphorylation of His 15, monitored by changes in NOE patterns, 3JNHHα‐coupling constants, and chemical shifts, are limited to the region around the phosphorylation site. The His 15 backbone torsion angles become strained upon phosphorylation. The release of this strain during the phosphoryl‐transfer to Enzyme II facilitates the transport of carbohydrates across the membrane.
The association between food insecurity and inflammation in the US adult population.

OBJECTIVES To expand the understanding of potential pathways through which food insecurity is associated with adverse health outcomes, we investigated whether food insecurity is associated with nutritional levels, inflammatory response, and altered immune function. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999-2006) with 12,191 participants. We assessed food insecurity using the US Department of Agriculture food security scale module and measured clinical biomarkers from blood samples obtained during participants' visits to mobile examination centers. RESULTS Of the study population, 21.5% was food insecure. Food insecurity was associated with higher levels of C-reactive protein (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.04, 1.40) and of white blood cell count (AOR=1.36; 95% CI=1.11, 1.67). White blood cell count partly mediated the association between food insecurity and C-reactive protein. CONCLUSIONS These findings show that food insecurity is associated with increased inflammation, a correlate of chronic diseases. Immune response also appears to be a potential mediator in this pathway.
Cantharellus chicagoensis sp. nov. is supported by molecular and morphological analysis as a new yellow chanterelle in midwestern United States

Recent molecular systematic studies of Cantharellus cibarius sensu lato have revealed previously unknown species in different regions of North America. This study investigates yellow chanterelles in the Midwest using phylogenetic analysis of three DNA regions: nuc rDNA internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) and 28S sequences and translation elongation factor 1α gene (EF1α). This analysis reveals a locally common taxon Cantharellus chicagoensis sp. nov. as distinct from sympatric species present in northeastern Illinois, northwestern Indiana and Wisconsin. This chanterelle features a pileus that often has a greenish yellow margin when immature, a squamulose disk when mature, a yellow spore print and the absence of a fragrant odor. Multiple Cantharellus specimens group with C. flavus and C. phasmatis, expanding their known range, and others with C. roseocanus. Our observations highlight the diversity of Cantharellus in midwestern USA and further document the need for additional systematic focus on the region’s fungi.