Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Spontaneous discharge characteristic of neurons in the ventromedial nucleus of the rat hypothalamus in vivo

The ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMN) is one of the main central regulators of two vital behaviours in rat: feeding behaviour and sexual behaviour. To better understand how these behaviours are regulated in the brain requires assessing how physiological stimuli are encoded by the electrical activity of populations of neurons, but there is still little known about the electrical activity of neurons in the VMN, in particular how it is regulated in vivo. Here, we recorded spontaneous firing activity from single VMN neurons in urethane‐anaesthetized rats in vivo, and characterized their electrophysiological identities. For each of 271 cells, we constructed hazard functions from interspike interval histograms to show how the excitability of the cell changes with time after a spike. We completed the statistical characterization of each cell by analysis of its mean firing rate and coefficient of variation, and features of its interspike interval distribution, including kurtosis and skew (around the mean and around the mode). We thereby identified nine subpopulations of neurons in the VMN, which we named according to the main features of their firing pattern. One of the subpopulations fires very regularly, another almost randomly and another in intermittent clusters of two–three spikes, but perhaps the most interesting subpopulation are ‘oscillatory cells’ whose activity seems to be governed by an extrinsic 3‐Hz rhythm. Whether these electrophysiologically distinct populations are also functionally and neurochemically distinct has now to be tested.
An analytical solution to Yee's FDTD partial difference equations for a one-dimensional cavity problem via z-transform

An analytical solution to the Yee's FDTD partial difference equations via z-transform has been presented and compared with the exact continuous wave solution for a one-dimensional cavity problem. Both results are in a similar form and the inherent errors of the Yee scheme have been identified. The obtained solution has also been verified with the direct implementation of the Yee scheme.
The Dermis‐Prelaminated Scapula Flap for Reconstructions of the Hard Palate and the Alveolar Ridge: A Clinical and Histologic Evaluation

&NA; Ideal reconstructions of complex defects in the midface require the restitution not only of bone and soft tissue, but also of a thin and durable lining of the oral cavity. So far, split‐thickness skin grafts, intestinal grafts, and in vitro cultured mucosal grafts have been used for the reconstruction of the oral lining. The use of skin as a substitute for oral mucosa is controversial because contraction, hair growth, maceration, and dysplastic changes can occur. This clinical and histologic study was performed to evaluate the suitability of dermis as a substitute for oral lining. Twelve complex defects of the midface were reconstructed with dermis‐prelaminated scapula flaps. A bony flap from the lateral border of the scapula was prepared, and osseointegrated implants were placed. The bone flap was then prelaminated with dermis and covered with a Gore‐Tex membrane to prevent adhesions. The composite flap was transferred to the midface 2 to 3 months later. The oral lining of the flap was evaluated clinically and histologically at 2, 4, and 6 weeks and at 3 to 41 months after the reconstruction. In all patients, the reconstructed bone was covered with a thin and lubricated surface without hair growth. None of the patients showed any signs of maceration. Histologically, these findings corresponded to a keratinized stratified squamous epithelium with highly developed connective‐tissue papillae. These features closely resemble those of the normal mucosa of the hard palate and the gingiva. Thus, dermis prelamination is an effective method for reconstructing the mucosa of the alveolar ridge and the hard palate. (Plast. Reconstr. Surg. 108: 1519, 2001.)
Latitudinal Gradient in Otolith Shape among Local Populations of Atlantic Herring (Clupea harengus L.) in Norway

Otolith shape analysis of Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus) in Norwegian waters shows significant differentiation among fjords and a latitudinal gradient along the coast where neighbouring populations are more similar to each other than to those sampled at larger distances. The otolith shape was obtained using quantitative shape analysis, the outlines were transformed with Wavelet and analysed with multivariate methods. The observed morphological differences are likely to reflect environmental differences but indicate low dispersal among the local herring populations. Otolith shape variation suggests also limited exchange between the local populations and their oceanic counterparts, which could be due to differences in spawning behaviour. Herring from the most northerly location (69°N) in Balsfjord, which is genetically more similar to Pacific herring (Clupea pallasii), differed in otolith shape from all the other populations. Our results suggest that the semi-enclosed systems, where the local populations live and breed, are efficient barriers for dispersal. Otolith shape can thus serve as a marker to identify the origin of herring along the coast of Norway.
Examining Test-Retest Reliability: An Intra-Class Correlation Approach

BackgroundThere are limitations of inter-class correlation (usually, the Pearson’s product-moment correlation) in evaluating reliability of an instrument. An intra-class correlation approach would be appropriate to examine the test-retest reliability of an instrument. ObjectivesTo introduce an intra-class correlation approach to examine the test-retest reliability of an instrument. MethodThe method of constructing an intra-class correlation coefficient was presented. ResultsThe instrument with visual analog scales to measure the perceived competence to practice breast self-examination and perceived barriers to breast self-examination was tested. The intra-class correlation coefficient was 0.640. ConclusionThe intra-class correlation is an alternative to test the reliability of an instrument and it is more sensitive to the detection of systematic error.
Phylogenetic analysis of partial VP7 gene of the emerging human group A rotavirus G12 strains circulating in Tunisia

Purpose. Group A rotavirus (RVA) is the leading cause of severe gastroenteritis in children younger than 5 years. The most common human G‐types are G1‐4 and G9. G12 genotype is currently emerging worldwide, becoming the sixth most prevalent RVA G‐genotype. In Tunisia, an emergence of G12 RVA strains was observed. To understand the evolution and origin of these Tunisian G12 strains, phylogenetic analyses were conducted. Methodology. A total of 1127 faecal samples were collected from Tunisian children under 5 years consulting for gastroenteritis between 2009 and 2014. Samples were screened by ELISA for the presence of RVA antigen. RVA‐positive samples were used for the detection of G12 RVA strains by semi‐nested RT‐PCR. G12‐positive specimens were subjected to VP4 genotyping reaction. PCR products of the G12‐positive samples were sequenced and characterized by phylogenetic analysis of partial VP7 gene sequence. Results. Globally, 270 (24 %) stool specimens were RVA‐positive. Fourteen presented the G12 genotype (5.2 %) and were found to be in combination with either the P[6] (50.0 %) or the P[8] (50.0 %) genotype. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all characterized Tunisian G12 strains clustered in the modern G12 lineage III and appear to form three different subclusters. Conclusion. Thus, the Tunisian G12 strains may have originated from not a single, but at least three distinct ancestral G12 strains. Detailed molecular characterization of the entire genome of these strains remains essential to help determine the extent of genetic variation and the relatedness of Tunisian G12 RVA strains to G12 strains described worldwide.
Adjuvant effect of IL-12: conversion of peptide antigen administration from tolerizing to immunizing for CD8+ T cells in vivo.

CD8+ T cells from TCR transgenic 2C mice, specific for SIYRYYGL peptide bound to H-2Kb, were adoptively transferred into C57BL/6 recipients to allow monitoring of their location, numbers, and phenotype upon peptide challenge. Recipients were primed by s.c. injection of SIYRYYGL alone or with CFA or IL-12, and the transferred cells then tracked by flow cytometry using the 1B2 mAb specific for the 2C TCR. Peptide alone induced a transient and weak expansion of 1B2+ cells in the draining lymph nodes (DLN) by day 3, but these cells were tolerant to secondary peptide challenge. In contrast, priming with CFA/peptide resulted in a large clonal expansion of 1B2+ cells in DLN by day 3, and the cells exhibited a CD25highCD44high phenotype, blast transformation, and lytic effector function. By day 5, 1B2+ cell numbers decreased in the DLN and increased in the spleen and blood. 1B2+ cells with a memory phenotype persisted through day 60 in the DLN, spleen, and blood and responded to secondary peptide challenge. Immunization with peptide, along with IL-12, mimicked the adjuvant effects of CFA with respect to phenotype, clonal expansion, effector function, and establishment of memory. IL-12 was not unique in providing this adjuvant effect however, since CFA/peptide immunization of IL-12-deficient recipient mice also resulted in 1B2+ T cell activation and clonal expansion. Thus, CFA or IL-12 can enhance Ag-specific CD8+ T cell responses to peptide, demonstrating that an inflammatory cytokine(s) can support activation and prevent tolerance induction.
Intraventricular Brain Injection of Adeno-Associated Virus Type 1 (AAV1) in Neonatal Mice Results in Complementary Patterns of Neuronal Transduction to AAV2 and Total Long-Term Correction of Storage Lesions in the Brains of β-Glucuronidase-Deficient Mice

ABSTRACT Inherited metabolic disorders that affect the central nervous system typically result in pathology throughout the brain; thus, gene therapy strategies need to achieve widespread delivery. We previously found that although intraventricular injection of the neonatal mouse brain with adeno-associated virus serotype 2 (AAV2) results in dispersed gene delivery, many brain structures were poorly transduced. This limitation may be overcome by using different AAV serotypes because the capsid proteins use different cellular receptors for entry, which may allow enhanced global targeting of the brain. We tested this with AAV1 and AAV5 vectors. AAV5 showed very limited brain transduction after neonatal injection, even though it has different transduction patterns than AAV2 in adult brain injections. In contrast, AAV1 vectors, which have not been tested in the brain, showed robust widespread transduction. Complementary patterns of transduction between AAV1 and AAV2 were established and maintained in the adult brain after neonatal injection. In the majority of structures, AAV1 transduced many more cells than AAV2. Both vectors transduced mostly neurons, indicating that differential expression of receptors on the surfaces of neurons occurs in the developing brain. The number of cells positive for a vector-encoded secreted enzyme (β-glucuronidase) was notably greater and more widespread in AAV1-injected brains. A comprehensive analysis of AAV1-treated brains from β-glucuronidase-deficient mice (mucopolysaccharidosis type VII) showed complete reversal of pathology in all areas of the brain for at least 1 year, demonstrating that the combination of this serotype and experimental strategy is therapeutically effective for treating global neurometabolic disorders.
Blood flow–restricted walking does not result in an accumulation of metabolites

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends lifting a weight of at least 70% of one’s concentric one repetition maximum to achieve muscular hypertrophy as it is believed that anything below this intensity does not produce significant muscle growth. Recent studies have found muscle hypertrophy to occur with low‐intensity ‘aerobic–like’ exercise with the application of blood flow restriction (BFR) to the limbs. Previous research with low load resistance training has shown that elastic knee wraps provide a practical means to induce elevations in whole blood lactate (WBL), which has been hypothesized to result in many of the adaptations observed with this type of exercise. However, this has yet to be investigated with low‐intensity walking. Thus, the purpose of this paper was to determine the degree to which WBL increases with practical BFR walking. Exercise consisted of five 2‐min bouts of walking at 75 m per min on a motor‐driven treadmill with a 1‐min rest period following each exercise bout. Participants completed the walking with (BFR) and without [control (CON)] restriction to the upper thigh in a randomized order. Practical BFR with elastic knee wraps did statistically increase WBL compared with CON; however, this was not considered a real change because the minimal difference between conditions was not exceeded. In conclusion, metabolic stress is not increased following practical BFR walking exercise. This study may provide an explanation for the lower hormone response observed with BFR walking and provide further evidence that mechanisms other than metabolic accumulation exist with BFR.
A Controlled Trial of Methods for Managing Pain in Primary Care Patients With or Without Co-Occurring Psychosocial Problems

PURPOSE Pain, a common reason for visits to primary care physicians, is often not well managed. The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of pain management interventions suitable for primary care physicians. METHODS Patients from 14 rural primary care practices (47 physicians) who reported diverse pain problems with (n = 644) or without (n = 693) psychosocial problems were randomized to usual-care or intervention groups. All patients in the intervention group received information tailored to their problems and concerns (INFO). These patients’ physicians received feedback about their patients’ problems and concerns (FEED). A nurse-educator (NE) telephoned patients with pain and psychosocial problems to teach problem-solving strategies and basic pain management skills. Outcomes were assessed with the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form and the Functional Interference Estimate at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. RESULTS Patients with pain and psychosocial problems randomized to INFOFEED+NE significantly improved on the bodily pain (P = .011), role physical (P = .025), vitality (P <.001), role emotional (P = .048), and the Functional Interference Estimate (P = .027) scales compared with usual-care patients at 6 months. These improvements were maintained at the 12-month assessment even though these patients had received, on average, only 3 telephone calls. Compared with usual-care patients, at 6 months patients who received INFOFEED alone experienced minimal improvements that were not sustained at the 12-month assessment. CONCLUSIONS For patients with pain and psychosocial problems, telephone-based assistance resulted in significant, sustained benefit in pain and psychosocial problems.
Localization of Vacuolar Transport Receptors and Cargo Proteins in the Golgi Apparatus of Developing Arabidopsis Embryos

Using immunogold electron microscopy, we have investigated the relative distribution of two types of vacuolar sorting receptors (VSR) and two different types of lumenal cargo proteins, which are potential ligands for these receptors in the secretory pathway of developing Arabidopsis embryos. Interestingly, both cargo proteins are deposited in the protein storage vacuole, which is the only vacuole present during the bent‐cotyledon stage of embryo development. Cruciferin and aleurain do not share the same pattern of distribution in the Golgi apparatus. Cruciferin is mainly detected in the cisand medial cisternae, especially at the rims where storage proteins aggregate into dense vesicles (DVs). Aleurain is found throughout the Golgi stack, particularly in the transcisternae and transGolgi network where clathrin‐coated vesicles (CCVs) are formed. Nevertheless, aleurain was detected in both DV and CCV. VSR‐At1, a VSR that recognizes N‐terminal vacuolar sorting determinants (VSDs) of the NPIR type, localizes mainly to the transGolgi and is hardly detectable in DV. Receptor homology‐transmembrane‐RING H2 domain (RMR), a VSR that recognizes C‐terminal VSDs, has a distribution that is very similar to that of cruciferin and is found in DV. Our results do not support a role for VSR‐At1 in storage protein sorting, instead RMR proteins because of their distribution similar to that of cruciferin in the Golgi apparatus and their presence in DV are more likely candidates. Aleurain, which has an NPIR motif and seems to be primarily sorted via VSR‐At1 into CCV, also possesses putative hydrophobic sorting determinants at its C‐terminus that could allow the additional incorporation of this protein into DV.
Screening for pain-persistence and pain-avoidance patterns in fibromyalgia

Background: The heterogeneity of patients regarding pain-related cognitive-behavioral mechanisms, such as pain-avoidance and pain-persistence patterns, has been proposed to underlie varying treatment outcomes in patients with fibromyalgia (FM). Purpose: To investigate the validity of a screening instrument to discriminate between pain-persistence and pain-avoidance patterns in FM. Method: In a three-part study, a self-reported screening instrument that assesses pain-avoidance behavior was used to distinguish patients with pain-persistence and pain-avoidance patterns. The resultant groups were compared with regard to several pain-related cognitive-behavioral factors, performance on a physical fitness test, and with regard to the judgments of trained therapists based on a semi-structured interview. Results: The validity of the screening instrument to distinguish between pain-avoidance and pain-persistence patterns was supported by other validated self-report questionnaires for pain-related cognitive-behavioral factors, physical exercise tests, as well as by a high correspondence with blinded therapist judgment after intake assessments. Conclusion: These findings suggest that a short self-report screening instrument can be used to distinguish between pain-avoidance and pain-persistence patterns within the heterogeneous population of FM patients, which offers promising possibilities to improve treatment efficacy by tailoring treatment to specific patient patterns.
Visual search for schematic emotional faces: Angry faces are more than crosses

Recent studies of the face in the crowd effect, the faster detection of angry than of happy faces in visual search, suggest that for schematic faces it reflects on perceptual features like inward pointing lines rather than on emotional expressions. Removing a potential confound, Experiments 1–2 replicate the preferential detection of stimuli with inward pointing lines, but Experiment 2a indicates that a surrounding circle is required for the effect to emerge. Experiments 3–7 failed to find evidence for faster detection of schematic faces comprising only the elements critical for the faster detection of angry faces according to a low level visual feature account, inward tilted brows and upturned mouth. Faster detection of anger was evident if eyes or eyes and noses were added, but only if their placement was consistent with the first order relations among these elements in a human face. Drawing the critical elements in thicker, higher contrast lines also led to an anger advantage, but this was smaller than that seen for the complete faces. The present results suggest that, while able to support faster target detection, a prevalence of inward pointing lines is not sufficient to explain the detection advantage of angry schematic faces.
Metamorphic 94 GHz power amplifier MMICs

In this paper, we present the development of two 94 GHz power amplifier MMICs for use in high-resolution synthetic aperture radar (SAR) systems. The amplifier circuits have been realized using a 0.1 /spl mu/m InAlAs/InGaAs based depletion type metamorphic high electron mobility transistor (MHEMT) technology in combination with coplanar circuit topology and dual-gate transistors, thus leading to an excellent power and gain performance at millimeter-wave frequencies. The realized two-stage driver amplifier (MPA) MMIC exhibited a small-signal gain of 16 dB and a saturated output power of 20.5 dBm at 94 GHz with a total gate width of 0.72 mm in the output stage. The two-stage high power amplifier (HPA) circuit achieved a linear gain of 10 dB and a saturated output power of 23.3 dBm with a total output periphery of 1.44 mm.
IL-13 receptor alpha2 promotes epithelial cell regeneration from radiation-induced small intestinal injury in mice.

BACKGROUND & AIMS The cytokines interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 have pleiotropic effects on a variety of cell types and impact both pathologic changes and tissue remodeling. The aim of this study was to clarify the roles of IL-13 receptor alpha2 (IL-13Ralpha2), which is the high-affinity decoy receptor for IL-13, in gastrointestinal tract epithelial cell turnover and repair. METHODS We have compared the regenerative process following mucosal damage induced by whole-body 3-Gy X-ray irradiation of wild-type (WT) and IL-4 receptor alpha gene-deficient (IL-4R(-/-)) mice. Then we treated mice with IL-13Ralpha2 human immunoglobulin (Ig) chimeric protein. RESULTS Up-regulation of mRNA levels for IL-13 in NK cells in the lamina propria was seen after irradiation of WT mice. Concomitant with vigorous epithelial cell division in the jejunum following irradiation, expression of the IL-13Ralpha2 dramatically increased in myofibroblasts and fibroblasts. In contrast, epithelial cell repair was delayed in IL-4R(-/-) mice, which did not show transient up-regulation of IL-13Ralpha2, although up-regulation of IL-13 was seen. Addition of IL-13 but not IL-4 to primary cultures of small intestine from both WT and IL-4R(-/-) mice induced epithelial cell damage. Treatment of IL-4R(-/-) mice with IL-13Ralpha2-Ig resulted in increased numbers of dividing epithelial cells and improved tissue repair after irradiation. Further, treatment with IL-13Ralpha2-Ig increased numbers of microcolonies of regenerating epithelial cells in the intestine of WT mice after severe damage induced by 12-Gy irradiation. CONCLUSIONS The IL-13Ralpha2 is a major regulatory factor involved in the regeneration of epithelial cells in the gastrointestinal tract.