Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Photoirradiation System for Simultaneous Irradiation with Different Light Doses at a Fixed Temperature.

OBJECTIVE In this work an irradiance and temperature controlled in-vitro system for conducting investigations in PDT and phototherapy is presented. BACKGROUND DATA The development of new light sources has caused a considerable increase in research and application of several photodynamic (PDT) therapeutic methods, as well as other light-based therapeutic techniques. However, further work is needed to fully understand and elucidate the mechanisms as well as to increase the effectiveness of PDT. Nowadays, there are no commercial systems to perform automated light exposure experiments with cultured cells. Also, there are very few reports of similar photoirradiation systems. MATERIALS AND METHODS The system is composed of 24 independent light-emitting diodes that can be used to irradiate separate wells in a microwell plate. The system includes a module to measure changes in temperature within each irradiated well without contact. The light sources are placed on a plate that can easily be changed in order to irradiate at different wavelengths. The performance of the system is fully controlled with a computer, and all the experimental data are properly recorded. RESULTS The design, construction, operation, and a full characterization of the system are presented. CONCLUSIONS A novel fully automated photoirradiation system has been developed. The system allows the design of the experiments in this area with precise dosimetry, temperature, and irradiation regime controls reducing manipulation of the samples and saving time.
Antidepressant therapy

In diagnosing depression, the most important maxim is to remember its existence. Depression may present overtly or covertly; it may be associated with suicide, alcoholism, or addiction to amphetamines. Perhaps half the depressions seen in general practice require specific treatment, of which a quarter may need referral to a psychiatrist or a psychiatric hospital. If left untreated about 1 in 7 severe depressives die, commit suicide, or become chronic invalids. About these observations there is general agreement. Unfortunately, views about treatment are more diverse, and it is impossible to discuss all of them in a short article, especially if the conclusions are to be firm enough for general use. What follows, therefore, does not represent a consensus of psychiatric opinion, for this does not exist. It is an account of a consistent approach to therapy well supported by experimental evidence and found useful in practice.
The Effect of Souvenaid on Functional Brain Network Organisation in Patients with Mild Alzheimer’s Disease: A Randomised Controlled Study

Background Synaptic loss is a major hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Disturbed organisation of large-scale functional brain networks in AD might reflect synaptic loss and disrupted neuronal communication. The medical food Souvenaid, containing the specific nutrient combination Fortasyn Connect, is designed to enhance synapse formation and function and has been shown to improve memory performance in patients with mild AD in two randomised controlled trials. Objective To explore the effect of Souvenaid compared to control product on brain activity-based networks, as a derivative of underlying synaptic function, in patients with mild AD. Design A 24-week randomised, controlled, double-blind, parallel-group, multi-country study. Participants 179 drug-naïve mild AD patients who participated in the Souvenir II study. Intervention Patients were randomised 1∶1 to receive Souvenaid or an iso-caloric control product once daily for 24 weeks. Outcome In a secondary analysis of the Souvenir II study, electroencephalography (EEG) brain networks were constructed and graph theory was used to quantify complex brain structure. Local brain network connectivity (normalised clustering coefficient gamma) and global network integration (normalised characteristic path length lambda) were compared between study groups, and related to memory performance. Results The network measures in the beta band were significantly different between groups: they decreased in the control group, but remained relatively unchanged in the active group. No consistent relationship was found between these network measures and memory performance. Conclusions The current results suggest that Souvenaid preserves the organisation of brain networks in patients with mild AD within 24 weeks, hypothetically counteracting the progressive network disruption over time in AD. The results strengthen the hypothesis that Souvenaid affects synaptic integrity and function. Secondly, we conclude that advanced EEG analysis, using the mathematical framework of graph theory, is useful and feasible for assessing the effects of interventions. Trial registration Dutch Trial Register NTR1975.
Norwalk virus-like particles as vaccines

Noroviruses (NoV) cause the great majority of epidemic nonbacterial gastroenteritis in humans. Expression of the capsid protein in recombinant systems, including insect and plant cells, yields assembly of virus-like particles (VLPs) that mimic the antigenic structure of authentic virions, and are relatively acid- and heat-stable. Norwalk virus (NV), the prototype NoV, has been studied extensively, and Norwalk virus-like particles (NVLPs) produced in insect cells and plants are immunogenic in mice and humans when delivered orally, stimulating the production of systemic and mucosal anti-NV antibodies. NVLPs are also highly immunogenic when delivered intranasally, provoking antibodies at levels similar to orally delivered VLP at much lower doses. Oral and nasal delivery of NVLPs efficiently produces antibodies at distal mucosal sites, which suggests that NVLPs could be used to deliver heterologous peptide antigens by production of genetic fusion chimeric capsid proteins. Examination of norovirus VLP surface structures and receptor binding motifs facilitates identification of potential sites for insertion of foreign peptides that will minimally affect the efficiency of VLP assembly and receptor binding. Thus, there is strong potential to use norovirus VLPs as vaccine-delivery vehicles.
Coordinate integrin and c-Met signaling regulate Wnt gene expression during epithelial morphogenesis

Integrin receptors for the extracellular matrix and receptor tyrosine kinase growth factor receptors represent two of the major families of receptors that transduce into cells information about the surrounding environment. Wnt proteins are a major family of signaling molecules that regulate morphogenetic events. There is presently little understanding of how the expression of Wnt genes themselves is regulated. In this study, we demonstrate that α3β1 integrin, a major laminin receptor involved in the development of the kidney, and c-Met, the receptor for hepatocyte growth factor, signal coordinately to regulate the expression of Wnt7b in the mouse. Wnt signals in turn appear to regulate epithelial cell survival in the papilla of the developing kidney, allowing for the elongation of epithelial tubules to form a mature papilla. Together, these results demonstrate how signals from integrins and growth factor receptors can be integrated to regulate the expression of an important family of signaling molecules so as to regulate morphogenetic events.
Antioxidant and free radical scavenging potential of yakuchinone B derivatives in reduction of lipofuscin formation using H2O2-treated neuroblastoma cells.

BACKGROUND The progressive accumulation of misfolded and aggregated proteins in neurons is an accepted mechanism in aging. Overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), referred to as oxidative stress, is currently believed to play a pivotal role in this process. Lipofuscin as a histological index of aging results from cross-links between oxidized proteins and lipids. Therefore, to attenuate lipofuscin formation, it would be logical to use exogenous natural or synthetic antioxidants. Yakuchinone B (1-[4'-hydroxy-3'-methoxyphenyl]-7-phenylhept-1-en-3-one) is a component of Alpinia oxyphylla seeds with established antioxidant activity. METHODS To evaluate the neuroprotective roles of yakuchinone B (JC6) and its structural analogues (JC1-JC5), the free radical scavenging capabilities of yakuchinone B derivatives were studied in terms of cell viability, apoptosis, cells ROS content, catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and the intracellular lipofuscin content in SK-N-MC cells exposed to H2O2. The level of MDA (malondialdehyde), as an index of lipid peroxidation and acid phosphatase activity were also measured. RESULTS Our results indicated that derivatives especially JC4, JC5 and JC6 decreased the extent of apoptosis and ROS level, while they increased the activities of SOD and CAT in drug-pretreated cells as compared to H2O2-treated cells. A clear relationship between the structure and antioxidant activities of these compounds was established. In addition, JC4, JC5 and JC6 were capable of down-regulating the formation of MDA and lipofuscin. CONCLUSION Our results indicated that free radicals play significant roles in lipofuscin formation and cellular aging which can be attenuated by yakuchinone B derivatives.
The role of formal support in the lives of children of mothers with intellectual disability

BACKGROUND Mothers with intellectual disability face socioeconomic disadvantage and social isolation, which is associated with poorer child outcomes. Social services feature prominently in the lives of mothers with intellectual disability especially those without informal support; however, the role of formal support in the lives of their children has not been explored. METHODS Seven children aged 7-11 years took part in semi-structured interviews to explore their social experiences. Stories about interactions at home, school and with peers were analysed to illuminate influences, including social support, in their lives. RESULTS Formal support can provide an enduring relationship for children from socially restricted homes when it focuses on the child's abilities, interests and needs as distinct from those of their mother. Child-focused support can be from a paid worker or volunteer. CONCLUSIONS Family support services need to apply a child focus to improve the well-being of children in vulnerable families.
Human Cytomegalovirus-Specific T-Cell Immune Reconstitution in Preemptively Treated Heart Transplant Recipients Identifies Subjects at Critical Risk for Infection

ABSTRACT Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection represents a major threat for heart transplant recipients (HTXs). CMV-specific T cells effectively control virus infection, and thus, assessment of antiviral immune recovery may have clinical utility in identifying HTXs at risk of infection. In this study, 10 CMV-seropositive (R+) pretransplant patients and 48 preemptively treated R+ HTXs were examined before and after 100 days posttransplant. Preemptive treatment is supposed to favor the immune recovery. CMV DNAemia and gamma interferon enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot (ELISPOT) assay were employed to assess the viremia and immune reconstitution. HTXs could be categorized into three groups characterized by high (>100), medium (50 to 100), and low (<50) spot levels. Early-identified high responders efficiently controlled the infection and also maintained high immunity levels after 100 days after transplant. No episodes of grade ≥2R rejection occurred in the high responders. Midresponders were identified as a group with heterogeneous trends of immune reconstitution. Low responders were 41% and 21% of HTXs before and after 100 days posttransplant, respectively. Low responders were associated with a higher incidence of infection. The effect of viremia on immune recovery was investigated: a statistically significant inverse correlation between magnitude of viremia and immune recovery emerged; in particular, each 10-fold increase in viremia (>4 log10 DNAemia/ml) was associated with a 36% decrease of the ELISPOT assay spot levels. All episodes of high viremia (>4 log10 DNAemia/ml) occurred from 1 to 60 days after transplant. Thus, the concomitant evaluation of viremia and CMV immune reconstitution has clinical utility in identifying HTXs at risk of infection and may represent a helpful guide in making therapeutic choices.
The effects of limb dominance and a short term, high intensity exercise protocol on both landings of the vertical drop jump: implications for the vertical drop jump as a screening tool

Abstract The effectiveness of vertical drop jumps (VDJs) to screen for non-contact ACL injuries is unclear. This may be contributed to by discrete point analysis, which does not evaluate patterns of movement. Also, limited research exists on the second landing of VDJs, potential lower limb performance asymmetries and the effect of fatigue. Statistical parametric mapping investigated the main effects of landing, limb dominance and a high intensity, intermittent exercise protocol (HIIP) on VDJ biomechanics. Twenty-two male athletes (21.9 ± 1.1 years, 180.5 ± 5.5 cm, 79.4 ± 7.8 kg) performed VDJs pre- and post-HIIP. Repeated measures ANOVA identified pattern differences during the eccentric phases of the first and second landings bilaterally. The first landing displayed greater (internal) knee flexor (η2 = 0.165), external rotator (η2 = 0.113) and valgus (η2 = 0.126) moments and greater hip (η2 = 0.062) and knee (η2 = 0.080) flexion. The dominant limb generated greater knee flexor (η2 = 0.062), external rotator (η2 = 0.110) and valgus (η2 = 0.065) moments. The HIIP only had one effect, increased thoracic flexion relative to the pelvis (η2 = 0.088). Finally, the dominant limb demonstrated greater knee extensor moments during the second landing (η2 = 0.100). ACL injury risk factors were present in both landings of VDJs with the dominant limb at potentially greater injury risk. Therefore, VDJ screenings should analyse both landings bilaterally.
The Ranking Peer for Hybrid Peer-to-Peer Real Time Video Streaming

We present the design of a hybrid P2P system called BisinLUMS. In previous P2P systems, they are commonly recognized as a file sharing system that utilizes a download/upload mechanism to distribute content. In our P2P system, we introduce a streaming concept instead of download. However, unicast streaming requires a certain level of guaranteed quality to achieve good real-time playback. The heterogeneity of peer such as bandwidth, CPU power, packet loss rate, uptimes, memory and storage need to be considered. In this short paper, we address the distributed supervised peer, how to rank the peers, and surface preview on files delegation and active/standby peer. We believe that, selecting the best peer to serve a streaming session is vital in providing good quality video streaming.
Characterisation of phenolics in Flor-Essence--a compound herbal product and its contributing herbs.

INTRODUCTION Commercially available herbal mixture FE, a proprietary natural health product manufactured by Flora Manufacturing and Distributing Ltd (Flora), is a unique North American traditional herbal product. FE is a chemically complex mixture of eight herbs and has not been subjected to phytochemical analysis. OBJECTIVE To develop analytical methods to undertake detailed phytochemical analyses of FE, and its eight contributing herbs, including burdock (Arctium lappa L.), sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella L.), Turkish rhubarb (Rheum palmatum L.), slippery elm Muhl. (Ulmus rubra), watercress (Nasturtium officinale R. Br.), red clover (Trifolium pratense L.), blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus L.) and kelp (Laminaria digitata Lmx.). METHODOLOGY The identification was undertaken by a combination of reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection-atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation-mass selective detection (RP-HPLC-DAD-APCI-MSD) analysis and phenolics metabolomic library matching. RESULTS New separation methods facilitated the identification of 43 markers in the individual herbs which constitute FE. Sixteen markers could be identified in FE originating from four contributing herbs including four caffeoyl quinic acids, three dicaffeoyl quinic acids and two caffeic acid derivatives from A. lappa, luteolin-7-O-glucoside, luteolin, five apigenin glycosides and apigenin from R. acetocella and N. officinale and sissostrin from T. pretense. A validated method for quantitative determination of three markers is reported with good intraday, interday and interoperator repeatability using a reliable alcohol based extraction technique. CONCLUSION FE and its contributing herbs predominantly contain phenolics. This methodology can be applied to further develop full-scale validation of this product.
Compound 21 is pro-angiogenic in the brain and results in sustained recovery after ischemic stroke

Introduction: Angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) stimulation is neuroprotective after experimental stroke. However, the therapeutic utility of AT2R stimulation has been hampered by the lack of a specific agonist with favourable bioavailability. Compound 21 (C21) – the first non-peptide AT2R agonist – offers a potential option to enhance stroke recovery. This study aimed to investigate the effect of C21 administration on early and late stroke outcomes, and the molecular mediators involved. Methods: Rats were subjected to 3 h or 90 min of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and randomized to intraperitoneal C21 (0.03 mg/kg) or saline at reperfusion. Animals were sacrificed at 24 h or 7 days and brains were collected for molecular analysis and immunostaining, respectively. Functional outcome at days 1, 4 and 7 was assessed blindly. C21 angiogenic potential was assessed in vitro. Results: After 3 h of MCAO, C21 treatment reduced infarct size and improved behavioural outcome at 24 h without affecting blood pressure. Co-administration of the AT2R antagonist (PD123319) blocked these effects. On the molecular level, C21 decreased brain haemoglobin content, down-regulated apoptotic and oxidative markers, and increased pro-survival molecules in the brain. After 90 min of MCAO, C21 treatment resulted in sustained functional improvement at 7 days, together with increased vascular density in the ischemic penumbra. In vitro, C21 showed a pro-angiogenic effect that was blocked with brain-derived neurotrophic factor neutralization. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that a single dose of C21 is neurovascular-protective and improves stroke outcome possibly through increasing neurotrophin activity, mitigating brain inflammation, and promoting antioxidant and pro-angiogenic effects.
ARE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN POLLEN–OVULE RATIO AND POLLEN AND SEED SIZE EXPLAINED BY SEX ALLOCATION?

Positive correlations between pollen–ovule ratio and seed size, and negative correlations between pollen–ovule ratio and pollen grain size have been noted frequently in a wide variety of angiosperm taxa. These relationships are commonly explained as a consequence of sex allocation on the basis of a simple model proposed by Charnov. Indeed, the theoretical expectation from the model has been the basis for interest in the empirical pattern. However, the predicted relationship is a necessary consequence of the mathematics of the model, which therefore has little explanatory power, even though its predictions are consistent with empirical results. The evolution of pollen–ovule ratios is likely to depend on selective factors affecting mating system, pollen presentation and dispensing, patterns of pollen receipt, pollen tube competition, female mate choice through embryo abortion, as well as genetic covariances among pollen, ovule, and seed size and other reproductive traits. To the extent the empirical correlations involving pollen–ovule ratios are interesting, they will need explanation in terms of a suite of selective factors. They are not explained simply by sex allocation trade‐offs.
Optimum design of complementary transient experiments for estimating thermal properties

In the design of transient thermal experiments for estimating the thermal conductivity, k, and volumetric heat capacity, C, the scaled sensitivity coefficients are utilized. These coefficients should be large and uncorrelated. In the current paper it is proven that they are the largest when the heated surface temperature of the sample is held at the maximum value. Hence, they can be assumed as ‘ideal reference sensitivities,’ which actual k- and Csensitivity coefficients can refer to in order to evaluate their relative magnitude. In addition, by using two complementary experiments, the sensitivity coefficients can be made more uncorrelated than if a single experiment is used. The result of two combined experiments is that the above two parameters are found with the greatest accuracy. The parameters are also of equal accuracy, which is generally not the case. This problem is unique not only because of intrinsic solutions between the small and large time solutions but in the exchanging of the roles in the scaled sensitivity coefficients for k and C.
The energy recovery system and method

The present invention relates to a system and method for converting energy as would otherwise be wasted by-products of industrial processes in the form of heated gas into electrical energy generated. At least some of the exhaust gas discharged from a typical steering structure back through the heat exchanger and the discharge structure. The amount of gas flowing through the heat exchanger by a controller to monitor and adjust. A heat source under pressure while circulating the liquid through a heat exchanger and an organic Rankine cycle system by Lang. The amount of cyclic heat source fluid can be monitored and regulated by the controller. The heat from the ORC system liquid into an electrical source.
Encapsulation requirements to enable stable organic ultra-thin and stretchable devices

In this paper, we will discuss stability and reliability requirements of organic electronic devices and evaluate different encapsulation approaches enabling stable organic ultra-thin and stretchable devices. We highlight the differences in requirements and encapsulation approaches for applications, including organic light emitting diode (OLED) displays, OLED lighting, photovoltaics, and sensors. Stability and reliability requirements addressed in this paper cover light management, mechanical characteristics, chemical compatibility, form factors, and durability. While flexible organic electronic devices have already been demonstrated and commercialized, so far only prototypes of ultra-thin and stretchable devices have been demonstrated. The technological progress is promising and by identifying the gaps between prototyping and product realization, we intend to stimulate further research and development in this area.
Sensing the messenger: The diverse ways that bacteria signal through c‐di‐GMP

An intracellular second messenger unique to bacteria, c‐di‐GMP, has gained appreciation as a key player in adaptation and virulence strategies, such as biofilm formation, persistence, and cytotoxicity. Diguanylate cyclases containing GGDEF domains and phosphodiesterases containing either EAL or HD‐GYP domains have been identified as the enzymes controlling intracellular c‐di‐GMP levels, yet little is known regarding signal transmission and the sensory targets for this signaling molecule. Although limited in number, identified c‐di‐GMP receptors in bacteria are characterized by prominent diversity and multilevel impact. In addition, c‐di‐GMP has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects in mammals and several eukaryotic c‐di‐GMP sensors have been proposed. The structural biology of c‐di‐GMP receptors is a rapidly developing field of research, which holds promise for the development of novel therapeutics against bacterial infections. In this review, we highlight recent advances in identifying bacterial and eukaryotic c‐di‐GMP signaling mechanisms and emphasize the need for mechanistic structure–function studies on confirmed signaling targets.