Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Relationships Between Exercise Self‐Definitions and Exercise Participation Among Urban Women in Primary Care

Exercising prevents the development of coronary artery disease and reduces the incidence of cardiovascular risk factors; however, the mechanisms that underlie participation in an exercise program are not well understood. On the basis of theories of the self, we hypothesized that exercise self-definitions would be significantly related to exercise participation and that such definitions would increase over time. The study sample consisted of 192 middle-aged to older women who were leading a mostly sedentary life and the majority had at least one cardiovascular risk factor. Exercise participation was defined as the number of exercise sessions completed at 8 and 24 weeks. We found an interesting pattern of significant relationships between exercise definitions and exercise participation. Six-month scores were significantly higher than baseline scores, suggesting that exercise self-definitions strengthened over time. If this result is found to be supported in future studies, nurses may want to consider assessing self-definitions when helping patients initiate and maintain an exercise program.
A multicentre randomized controlled trial of expectant management versus IVF in women with Fallopian tube patency.

BACKGROUND Although observational studies suggest that IVF is more effective than no treatment for women with Fallopian tube patency, this has not been tested rigorously in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). METHODS Eligible consenting couples planning their first treatment cycle in five Canadian fertility clinics received either IVF, within 90 days of randomization, or a period of 90 days with no treatment. Random allocation was stratified by female age and sperm quality, and administered using numbered, opaque, sealed envelopes. Follow-up assessed live birth and associated morbidity. RESULTS Sixty-eight couples were randomized to a first cycle of IVF and 71 couples had 3 months without treatment. The live birth rates were 20/68 (29%) and 1/71 (1%), respectively. The single delivery in the untreated group was of twins, as were six of the 20 IVF deliveries (30%). An average of 2.0 embryos were transferred and no triplet pregnancies resulted. The relative likelihood of delivery after allocation to IVF was 20.9-fold higher than after allocation to no treatment [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.8-155]. The presence of abnormal sperm did not reduce this likelihood. Treating four women (95% CI 3-6) with one cycle of IVF is required to achieve a single additional birth. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a valid and up-to-date comparison for policy makers and patients as they make choices around IVF, accurately measuring and confirming a major benefit from treatment.
Antiviral-Activated Dendritic Cells: A Paracrine-Induced Response State1

Infection of immature dendritic cells (DCs) by virus stimulates their maturation into APC. Infected DCs can also expose uninfected DCs to a panoply of cytokines/chemokines via paracrine signaling. Mathematical modeling suggests that a high rate of paracrine signaling is likely to occur among DCs located in three-dimensional space. Relatively little is known about how secreted factors modify the early response to virus infection. We used a transwell experimental system that allows passage of secreted factors, but not direct contact, between virus-infected DCs and uninfected DCs to investigate paracrine signaling responses. Paracrine signaling from infected DCs induced an antiviral-primed DC state distinct from that of mature virus-infected DCs that we refer to as antiviral-activated DCs (AVDCs). AVDCs had increased surface MHC class II and CD86 levels, but in contrast to virus-infected DCs, their MHC class I levels were unchanged. Imaging flow cytometry showed that AVDCs had an increased rate of phagocytosis compared with naive DCs. Experiments with IFN-β cytokine indicated that it may be responsible for CD86, but not MHC class II regulation in AVDCs. Both IFN-inducible and IFN-independent genes are up-regulated in AVDCs. Notably, AVDCs are relatively resistant to virus infection in comparison to naive DCs and achieve accelerated and augmented levels of costimulatory molecule expression with virus infection. AVDCs show a distinct antiviral-primed state of DC maturation mediated by DC paracrine signaling. Although further in vivo study is needed, the characteristics of the AVDC suggest that it is well suited to play a role in the early innate-adaptive transition of the immune system.
Residual cardiovascular risk in individuals on lipid-lowering treatment: quantifying absolute and relative risk in the community

Objective The residual cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in individuals on long-term lipid-lowering treatment (LLT) in the general population is not well described. Methods We estimated absolute CVD risks by age and sex for different categories of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, stratified by LLT status, and assessed subclinical carotid atherosclerosis in 3012 Framingham Study participants (mean age, 58.4 years; 55% women) free of CVD. Individuals were categorised into five groups: (1) LDL-C <100 mg/dL without LLT; (2) LDL-C ≥100 mg/dL to <130 mg/dL without LLT; (3) LDL-C <130 mg/dL on LLT; (4) LDL-C ≥130 mg/dL without LLT; and (5) LDL-C ≥130 mg/dL on LLT. Results Individuals in groups 3–5 had significantly more carotid atherosclerosis compared with group 1. During follow-up (median, 13.7 years), 548 CVD events occurred. Individuals on LLT (groups 3 and 5) had substantial residual CVD risk (26.7 (95% CI 19.5 to 34.0) and 24.1 (95% CI 16.2 to 31.9) per 1000 person-years, respectively), representing approximately three times the risk for untreated individuals with LDL <100 mg/dL (group 1: 9.0 (95% CI 6.8 to 11.3) per 1000 person-years). Absolute CVD risks rose with age and were slightly greater in men than in women. After adjustment for traditional risk factors, groups 3–5 displayed increased hazards for CVD (HR=1.47, 1.42 and 1.54, respectively) compared with group 1. Further adjustment for carotid atherosclerosis modestly attenuated these results. Conclusions There is substantial residual CVD risk in individuals on LLT, compared with participants with optimal LDL-C (<100 mg/dL), even when LDL-C levels <130 mg/dL are reached.
D-ACB: Adaptive Congestion Control Algorithm for Bursty M2M Traffic in LTE Networks

When incorporating machine-to-machine (M2M) communications into the Third-Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Long-Term Evolution (LTE) networks, one of the challenges is the traffic overload since many machine-type communication (MTC) devices activated in a short period of time may require access to an evolved node B (eNodeB) simultaneously. One approach to tackle this problem is by using an access class barring (ACB) mechanism with an ACB factor to defer some activated MTC devices transmitting their access requests. In this paper, we first present an analytical model to determine the expected total service time, i.e., the time used by all MTC devices to successfully access the eNodeB. In the ideal case that the eNodeB is aware of the number of backlogged MTC devices, we determine the optimal value of the ACB factor to reduce traffic overload. To better utilize the random access resources shared among human users and MTC devices in LTE networks, we propose to dynamically allocate a number of random access preambles for MTC devices. We further propose two dynamic ACB (D-ACB) algorithms for fixed and dynamic preamble allocation schemes to determine the ACB factors without a priori knowledge of the system backlog. Simulation results show that the proposed D-ACB algorithms achieve almost the same performance as the optimal performance obtained in the ideal case. The proposed D-ACB for dynamic preamble allocation algorithm can reduce both the total time to serve all MTC devices and the average number of random access opportunities required by each MTC device.
Rare variant enriched identity-by-descent enables the detection of distant relatedness and older divergence between populations

Motivation The global human population has experienced an explosive growth from a few million to roughly 7 billion people in the last 10,000 years. Accompanying this growth has been the accumulation of rare variants that can inform our understanding of human evolutionary history. Common variants have primarily been used to infer the structure of the human population and relatedness between two individuals. However, with the increasing abundance of rare variants observed in large-scale projects, such as Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine (TOPMed), the use of rare variants to decipher cryptic relatedness and fine-scale population structure can be beneficial to the study of population demographics and association studies. Identity-by-descent (IBD) is an important framework used for identifying these relationships. IBD segments are broken down by recombination over time, such that longer shared haplotypes give strong evidence of recent relatedness while shorter shared haplotypes are indicative of more distant relationships. Current methods to identify IBD accurately detect only long segments (> 2cM) found in related individuals. Algorithm We describe a metric that leverages rare-variants shared between individuals to improve the detection of short IBD segments. We computed IBD segments using existing methods implemented in Refined IBD where we enrich the signal using our metric that facilitates the detection of short IBD segments (<2cM) by explicitly incorporating rare variants. Results To test our new metric, we simulated datasets involving populations with varying divergent time-scales. We show that rare-variant IBD identifies shorter segments with greater confidence and enables the detection of older divergence between populations. As an example, we applied our metric to the Old-Order Amish cohort with known genealogies dating 14 generations back to validate its ability to detect genetic relatedness between distant relatives. This analysis shows that our method increases the accuracy of identifying shorter segments that in turn capture distant relationships. Conclusions We describe a method to enrich the detection of short IBD segments using rare-variant sharing within IBD segments. Leveraging rare-variant sharing improves the information content of short IBD segments better than common variants alone. We validated the method in both simulated and empirical datasets. This method can benefit association analyses, IBD mapping analyses, and demographic inferences.
Snakebite is Under Appreciated: Appraisal of Burden from West Africa

Background Snakebite envenoming (SBE) is a major problem in rural areas of West Africa (WA). Compared to other Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD), the public health burden of SBE has not been well characterized. We estimated the impact of snakebite mortality and morbidity using the Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) metrics for 16 countries in WA. Methods We used the reported annual number of SB deaths and mean age at time of SB and converted these into years of life lost (YLL). Similarly, the years of life lived with disability (YLD) were estimated by multiplying the number of amputations by the respective disability weight of 0.13. Results In WA, the annual cases of SB mortality and amputations ranged from 24 (95% Confidence Interval: 19–29) and 28 (17–48) respectively in Guinea-Bissau with the highest estimates of 1927 (1529–2333) and 2368 (1506–4043) respectively in Nigeria. We calculated that the annual DALYs associated with a SB death ranged from 1550 DALYs (95%CI: 1227–1873 DALYs) in Guinea Bissau to 124,484 DALYs (95%CI: 98,773–150,712 DALYs) in Nigeria. The annual DALYs associated with amputation for the two countries were 149 DALYs (95%CI: 91–256 DALYs) and 12,621 DALYs (95%CI: 8027–21,549 DALYs) respectively. The total burden of SBE was estimated at 319,874 DALYs (95% CI: 248,357–402,654 DALYs) in the 16 countries in WA. These estimates are similar, and in some instances even higher, than for other NTDs encountered in WA (e.g., Buruli ulcer, Echinococcosis, Intestinal Nematode Infections, Leishmaniasis, Onchocerchiasis, Trachoma and Trypanosomiasis) as reported in the Global Burden of Diseases 2010 (GBD). Conclusions The public health burden of SBE in WA is very substantial and similar to other more widely recognized NTDs. Efforts and funding commensurate with its burden should be made available for the control of snakebite in the sub-region.
A recombineering pipeline to clone large and complex genes in Chlamydomonas

The ability to clone genes has driven fundamental advances in cell and molecular biology, enabling researchers to introduce precise mutations, generate fluorescent protein fusions for localization and to confirm genetic causation by mutant complementation. Most gene cloning is PCR or DNA synthesis dependent, which can become costly and technically challenging as genes increase in size and particularly if they contain complex regions. This has been a long-standing challenge for the Chlamydomonas reinhardtii research community, with a high percentage of genes containing complex sequence structures, an average genomic GC content of 64% and gene expression requiring regular introns for stable transcription. Here we overcome these challenges via the development of a recombineering pipeline that enables the rapid parallel cloning of genes from a Chlamydomonas BAC collection. We show the method can successfully retrieve large and complex genes that PCR-based methods have previously failed to clone, including genes as large as 23 kilobases, thus making previously technically challenging genes to study now amenable to cloning. We initially applied the pipeline to 12 targets with a 92% cloning success rate. We then developed a high-throughput approach and targeted 191 genes relating to the Chlamydomonas CO2 concentrating mechanism (CCM) with an overall cloning success rate of 77% that is independent of gene size. Localization of a subset of CCM targets has confirmed previous mass spectrometry data and identified new pyrenoid components. To expand the functionality of our system, we developed a series of localization vectors that enable complementation of Chlamydomonas Library Project mutants and enable protein tagging with a range of fluorophores. Vectors and detailed protocols are available to facilitate the easy adoption of this method by the Chlamydomonas research community. We envision that this technology will open up new possibilities in algal and plant research and be complementary to the Chlamydomonas mutant library.
Nursing Interventions and Other Factors Associated With Discharge Disposition in Older Patients After Hip Fractures

Background: The research on hip fractures has been focused on surgical procedures for hip fracture repair; little is known about the contribution of nursing interventions to outcomes. Objectives: To investigate factors, including nursing interventions, associated with the discharge destination of an older patient population hospitalized for a fractured hip or an elective hip procedure. Nursing interventions used during the hospitalized period are identified. Methods: A design model composed of patient characteristics; clinical conditions; nursing unit characteristics; and medical, pharmacy, and nursing interventions related to the outcome of discharge disposition was tested using generalized estimating equations analysis. A total of 116 variables were examined in a sample of 569 hospitalizations from 524 patients aged 60 years and older admitted for treatment of a hip fracture or elective hip procedure in one tertiary care agency over a 4-year period. Data were obtained retrospectively from five clinical databases. Results: Fifty-four percent of the population was discharged to a location other than to home. The predictors of discharge to home were a younger age, admission from home, and having a spouse, as well as receipt of intravenous solutions, diagnostic ultrasound, a lower number of medications, and moderate use of the nursing intervention of bathing. The identification of nursing interventions indicates that those who received routine nursing care for this condition returned home while those who required interventions for complications or prevention of complications were discharged to an institution. Discussion: Using a standardized nursing language with the hospital's information system can provide nurses and others with information that demonstrates the contribution of nursing care to outcomes, including the outcome of discharge to home.
Sorting Nexin 27 Protein Regulates Trafficking of a p21-activated Kinase (PAK) Interacting Exchange Factor (β-Pix)-G Protein-coupled Receptor Kinase Interacting Protein (GIT) Complex via a PDZ Domain Interaction*

Background: Sorting Nexin 27 regulates intracellular trafficking of proteins through the endosomal system. Results: An interaction between SNX27 and the guanine nucleotide exchange factor β-Pix in complex with Git family proteins is identified. Conclusion: Cells lacking SNX27 have decreased cell motility, which we propose to be due to β-Pix intracellular trafficking defects. Significance: The results and model proposed have implications for recruitment/activation of p21-activated kinase (PAK) or Rho GTPases at focal adhesions. Sorting nexin 27 (SNX27) is a 62-kDa protein localized to early endosomes and known to regulate the intracellular trafficking of ion channels and receptors. In addition to a PX domain, SNX27 is the only sorting family member that contains a PDZ domain. To identify novel SNX27-PDZ binding partners, we performed a proteomic screen in mouse principal kidney cortical collecting duct cells using a GST-SNX27 fusion construct as bait. We found that β-Pix (p21-activated kinase-interactive exchange factor), a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for the Rho family of small GTPases known to regulate cell motility directly interacted with SNX27. The association of β-Pix and SNX27 is specific for β-Pix isoforms terminating in the type-1 PDZ binding motif (ETNL). In the same screen we also identified Git1/2 as a potential SNX27 interacting protein. The interaction between SNX27 and Git1/2 is indirect and mediated by β-Pix. Furthermore, we show recruitment of the β-Pix·Git complex to endosomal sites in a SNX27-dependent manner. Finally, migration assays revealed that depletion of SNX27 from HeLa and mouse principal kidney cortical collecting duct cells significantly decreases cell motility. We propose a model by which SNX27 regulates trafficking of β-Pix to focal adhesions and thereby influences cell motility.
Binding of Amyloid β Protein to the 20 S Proteasome*

Neurodegenerative disorders of aging are characterized by the intraneuronal accumulation of ubiquitin conjugates into tangles and inclusions. Ubiquitin conjugates are degraded by cellular particles known as proteasomes. We have previously shown that amyloid β protein (Aβ) inhibits proteasomal activity and thereby blocks ubiquitin conjugate degradation. In the present studies, we found that Aβ binds the 20 S proteasome and forms a proteasome-Aβ complex. The complex was detected by Western blot with anti-Aβ antibodies. Using a 1.4 nm Nanogold-labeled Aβ, we visualized proteasome-Aβ complexes by scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Analysis of the side-on oriented proteasome-Aβ complexes revealed a single gold particle, corresponding to one gold-labeled Aβ, in the middle portion of the proteasome. On end-on views of proteasome-Aβ complexes, gold was detected within the area delimited by the proteasome circular projection. Both STEM views are consistent with Aβ localization inside the proteasome along the peptide channel. Direct interaction of Aβ with the inner catalytic compartment of the proteasome may explain the generation of ubiquitin-containing lesions in Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. In addition, detection of Nanogold-labeled peptide inside the 20 S eukaryotic proteasome suggests that conformational constraints for protein degradation in eukaryotic proteasomes are different from those in archaebacteria proteasomes.
The SMART model: Soft Membranes Adapt and Respond, also Transiently, in the presence of antimicrobial peptides

Biophysical and structural studies of peptide–lipid interactions, peptide topology and dynamics have changed our view on how antimicrobial peptides insert and interact with membranes. Clearly, both the peptides and the lipids are highly dynamic, change and mutually adapt their conformation, membrane penetration and detailed morphology on a local and a global level. As a consequence, the peptides and lipids can form a wide variety of supramolecular assemblies in which the more hydrophobic sequences preferentially, but not exclusively, adopt transmembrane alignments and have the potential to form oligomeric structures similar to those suggested by the transmembrane helical bundle model. In contrast, charged amphipathic sequences tend to stay intercalated at the membrane interface where they cause pronounced disruptions of the phospholipid fatty acyl packing. At increasing local or global concentrations, the peptides result in transient membrane openings, rupture and ultimately lysis. Depending on peptide‐to‐lipid ratio, lipid composition and environmental factors (temperature, buffer composition, ionic strength, etc.), the same peptide sequence can result in a variety of those responses. Therefore, the SMART model has been introduced to cover the full range of possibilities. With such a view in mind, novel antimicrobial compounds have been designed from amphipathic polymers, peptide mimetics, combinations of ultra‐short polypeptides with hydrophobic anchors or small designer molecules. Copyright © 2015 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Joint Access Selection and Resource Allocation in Cache-Enabled HCNs with D2D Communications

With the explosive increase of wireless data traffic, caching is regarded as a promising technology to combine with heterogeneous cellular networks (HCNs), which can offload cellular traffic and improve the system performance effectively. In this paper, we investigate the communication scenario about cache-enabled HCNs with device-to- device (D2D) communications. Both small cell base stations (SBSs) and D2D user equipments (DUEs) have the caching hardware that can store popular contents to serve users locally. With the caching technology introduced, heavy traffic load in the HCNs could be relieved and the request latency could be decreased, which results in better user experience. Meanwhile, due to the constraints of the limited resource, access selection of users and resource allocation are two significant problems that need to be carefully studied. Thus, we propose a novel scheme to study the access selection and resource allocation jointly. First, we formulate the access selection, spectrum allocation as a joint optimization problem to maximize the system capacity, where bandwidth resource is allocated flexibly and the quality of service (QoS) of users is satisfied. Since the original problem is a mixed combinatorial problem, which is a non-convex optimization, an efficient solution is proposed to transfer the original problem to a convex problem so as to reduce computational complexity. In the simulation, we compare our scheme with other three schemes. Simulation results are presented to validate the effectiveness of our proposed scheme.