Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
How many pathways to pheochromocytoma?

Pheochromocytomas, like several other tumors, may be either sporadic or the manifestation of a familial cancer syndrome. Recently, major advances have occurred in both the understanding of diverse molecular mechanisms leading to pheochromocytoma and the diagnostic modalities available for detection of the disease. Familial pheochromocytoma may be a manifestation of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN-2), von Hippel-Lindau (VHL), or neurofibromatosis-1 (NF 1) disease. Tumor-suppressor genes responsible for the familial occurrence of extra-adrenal pheochromocytoma, called paraganglioma, have been identified. This wealth of genetic information, coupled with the availability of sensitive and specific biochemical tests as well as imaging studies, allows for genetic screening and early diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. In addition, genetic screening of relatives at risk is now feasible. In this article, we review recent clinical and molecular advances in our understanding of pheochromocytoma.
A Flexible Sensor Technology for the Distributed Measurement of Interaction Pressure

We present a sensor technology for the measure of the physical human-robot interaction pressure developed in the last years at Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna. The system is composed of flexible matrices of opto-electronic sensors covered by a soft silicone cover. This sensory system is completely modular and scalable, allowing one to cover areas of any sizes and shapes, and to measure different pressure ranges. In this work we present the main application areas for this technology. A first generation of the system was used to monitor human-robot interaction in upper- (NEUROExos; Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna) and lower-limb (LOPES; University of Twente) exoskeletons for rehabilitation. A second generation, with increased resolution and wireless connection, was used to develop a pressure-sensitive foot insole and an improved human-robot interaction measurement systems. The experimental characterization of the latter system along with its validation on three healthy subjects is presented here for the first time. A perspective on future uses and development of the technology is finally drafted.
Mitigation of Laser Damage on NIF Optics in Volume Production

The National Ignition Facility has recently achieved the milestone of delivering over 1.8 MJ and 500 TW of 351 nm laser energy and power on target, which required average fluences up to 9 J/cm 2 (3 ns equivalent) in the final optics system. Commercial fused silica laser-grade UV optics typically have a maximum operating threshold of 5 J/cm 2 . We have developed an optics recycling process which enables NIF to operate above the laser damage initiation and growth thresholds. We previously reported a method to mitigate laser damage with laser ablation of the damage site to leave benign cone shaped pits. We have since developed a production facility with four mitigation systems capable of performing the mitigation protocols on full-sized (430 mm) optics in volume production. We have successfully repaired over 700 NIF optics (unique serial numbers), some of which have been recycled as many as 11 times. We describe the mitigation systems, the optics recycle loop process, and optics recycle production data. been identified (by FODI or other metrology) as having growing damage sites. The microscope is scanned through the bulk of the optic to the opposite side to determine the full extent of the damage. The operator examines, sizes and centers the site, and judges if damage mitigation is required. Inspection is performed for sites down to a size of 50  m, the minimum size at which FODI can reliably resolve between growing and stable damage sites. Images of the
Design of the CAM model and authoring tool

Students benefit from personalised attention; however, often teachers are unable to provide this. An Adaptive Hypermedia (AH) system can offer a richer learning experience in an educational environment, by giving personalised attention to students. On-line courses are becoming increasingly popular by means of Learning Management Systems (LSM). The aim of the GRAPPLE project is to integrate an AH with major LMS, to provide an environment that delivers personalised courses in a LMS interface. However, designing an AH is a much more complex and time-consuming task, than creating a course in a LMS. Several models and systems were developed previously, but the (re)-usability by educational authors of the adaptation remains limited. To simplify adaptive behaviour authoring for an educational author, a visual environment was selected as being most intuitive. This paper describes a reference model for authoring in a visual way and introduces an authoring tool based upon this model.
Concordance With Prevention Guidelines and Subsequent Cancer, Cardiovascular Disease, and Mortality: A Longitudinal Study of Older Adults

Reports on the associations between multiple clinical and behavioral health indicators and major health outcomes among older adults are scarce. We prospectively examined concordance with guidelines from the American Cancer Society and American Heart Association for disease prevention in relation to cancer, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and mortality among Cardiovascular Health Study enrollees aged 65-98 years who, at baseline assessment in 1989-1996 (n = 3,491), were free of CVD and cancer. Total and cause-specific mortality, as well as incidence of cancer and CVD, were lower with higher guideline concordance. Independent of body mass index, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and fasting plasma glucose, better health behaviors (diet, physical activity, and alcohol consumption) were associated with lower mortality (2-sided P < 0.0001). Among individuals with ideal levels for 3-4 of these 4 cardiometabolic biomarkers, those with poor concordance with health behavior recommendations had higher mortality compared with those who had the highest concordance with these behavioral recommendations (adjusted mortality hazard ratio = 1.82, 95% confidence interval: 1.25, 2.67). Older adults who are concordant with recommendations for cancer and CVD prevention have reduced rates of chronic disease and mortality. Interventions to achieve and maintain healthy lifestyle behaviors may offer benefits both in the presence and absence of adverse traditional clinical risk factors.
Fatigue strength properties of interlaminar toughened CFRP laminates under cyclic loading in the out-of-plane direction

In this study, fatigue strength properties of interlaminar toughened CFRP laminates in the out-of-plane direction, or through thickness, were investigated. Thick laminates whose stacking sequence was unidirectional were formed with 88 plies of T800S/3900-2B prepreg. The T800S/3900-2B prepreg is constituted of fiber layer and interlaminar toughened layer in which polyamide particles are dispersed. The material properties of the thick laminates were measured by compression test and 4-points shear test. Spool specimens machined from the thick laminates were loaded in the out-of-plane direction. Stress distributions of spool specimens were evaluated by FE analysis. Fiber layer and interlaminar toughened layer in the each ply were modeled separately in the analysis. In comparison to the out-of-plane direction, the properties of in-plane transverse direction were investigated with 90 ° thin laminates. To evaluate the fatigue strength properties quantitatively, an analytical equation was introduced for the results of fatigue test. The fracture surfaces of the specimens after static and fatigue tests were observed by SEM. From the observation of the fracture surfaces after fatigue test, it was found that the interfacial debonding between fiber and matrix was occurred due to cyclic loading in both of specimens. In addition, it was observed that crack generated from debonding grew in the fiber layer until ultimate fracture. Moreover, the experimental and analytical results showed that, in comparison to the in-plane transverse direction, the fatigue life in the out-of-plane direction is shorter.
Involvement of AmpG in mediating a dynamic relationship between serine beta-lactamase induction and biofilm-forming ability of Escherichia coli

AmpG permease is implicated both in beta-lactamase induction and peptidoglycan recycling in enterobacterial isolates. Here, physiological studies using molecular genetics show that deletion of AmpG permease dramatically increases beta-lactam susceptibility even in the presence of AmpC, TEM-1 and OXA beta-lactamases. Also, there is an appreciable decrease in the biofilm-forming ability of strains lacking this protein. Expression of this permease in excess probably compromises the integrity of the bacterial cells, leading to cell lysis. Based on these results, we propose that AmpG permease may be used as a potential antibiotic target and its suppression could efficiently inhibit both beta-lactamase induction and biofilm formation.
An Evaluation of Time-Trial–Based Predictions of VO2max and Recommended Training Paces for Collegiate and Recreational Runners

Abstract Scudamore, EM, Barry, VW, and Coons, JM. An Evaluation of time-trial–based predictions of V[Combining Dot Above]O2max and recommended training paces for collegiate and recreational runners. J Strength Cond Res 32(4): 1137–1143, 2018—The purpose of the current study was to determine the accuracy of Jack Daniels' VDOT Running Calculator for the prediction of V[Combining Dot Above]O2max, and recommendations of interval and training paces (pIN and pTH) in samples of National Collegiate Athletic Association Division 1 track athletes (ATH, n = 11) and recreational runners (REC; n = 9). Predicted variable data were obtained using results from indoor 5-km time-trials. Data from the VDOT Calculator were compared with laboratory-tested V[Combining Dot Above]O2max, pace at V[Combining Dot Above]O2max (V[Combining Dot Above]O2maxpace), and lactate threshold pace (LTpace). Results indicated that VDOT underestimated V[Combining Dot Above]O2max in ATH (t(10) = −6.00, p < 0.001, d = 1.75) and REC (t(8) = −8.96, p < 0.001, d = 3.44). Follow-up between-groups analysis indicated that the difference between VDOT and V[Combining Dot Above]O2max was significantly greater in REC than in ATH (p = 0.0031, d = 1.59). pIN was slower than V[Combining Dot Above]O2maxpace in REC (t(8) = −4.26, p = 0.003, d = 1.76), but not different in ATH (t(10) = 0.52, p = 0.614, d = 0.14). Conversely, pTH was faster than LTpace in ATH (t(8) = −4.17, p = 0.003, d = 1.49), but not different in REC (t(8) = 1.64, p = 0.139, d = 0.57). Practically, pTH can be confidently used for threshold training regardless of the ability level. pIN also seemed to be accurate for ATH, but may be not be optimal for improving V[Combining Dot Above]O2max in REC. Practitioners should interpret VDOT with caution as it may underestimate V[Combining Dot Above]O2max.
Nest use and patterns of egg laying and damage by 4 strains of laying hens in an aviary system1

ABSTRACT Laying hens are strongly motivated to use nests for egg laying, and alternative production systems (e.g., aviaries) provide artificial sites to meet this need and ensure efficient collection of clean, undamaged eggs. However, nests are typically not provided to allow simultaneous use by all hens; therefore, competition or mislaid eggs can result. To understand the influence of strain on laying eggs outside nests and damage to eggs, we compared daily patterns of nests use and egg laying among 4 laying hen strains (Hy‐Line Brown (HB), Bovans Brown (BB), DeKalb White (DW), and Hy‐Line W36 (W36)). Hens were observed over 3 consecutive days in aviaries with colony nests in the enclosure's top tier (2 nests/unit, 4 aviary units/strain, 144 hens/unit). The number and location of hens in nests and the number, location and condition of eggs throughout aviaries were recorded. Most eggs (90 to 95%) were laid in nests; however, brown hens consistently laid more non‐nest eggs and damaged more eggs than white hens (P ≤ 0.05). Higher nest occupancy by brown hens was correlated with more non‐nest and damaged eggs (P ≤ 0.05). In the morning, brown hens occupied more nest space and laid more nest eggs than white hens (e.g., HB vs. DW: 82.97 and 34.66% of space; 91.35 and 68.73% of nest eggs; P ≤ 0.05). At midday, white hens occupied more nest space and laid more nest eggs than brown hens (e.g., HB vs. DW: 28.47 and 15.81% of space; 27.39 and 8.29% of nest eggs; P ≤ 0.05). Brown hens preferred right nest compartments and laid more eggs there, whereas white hens preferred left compartments and W36 laid more eggs there (P ≤ 0.05). These findings indicate that different strains of hens have different patterns of nest use and laying behavior. In brown hens, heavy morning nest use was related to laying eggs outside nests and more damaged eggs, suggesting insufficient space for oviposition in nests. Specific facility design should be matched to hens' preferences to accommodate behavioral needs of different strains.
Modelling Coverage Between Geospatial Resources

Ontologies evolve when the underlying domain world changes at different points of time. In historical geospatial domain, for example, the result then is chains of changes like merges and splits between ontology resources. Our focus is on modeling and determining partial overlap, i.e. the coverage between the ontology resources. The idea is to provide the ontology developer with an intuitive change ontology for expressing local ontological changes in a declarative and easy way. We have created a method that can determine and visualize a global coverage between two geospatial resources based on the declared local changes. The method can be applied, e.g., in concept-based information retrieval for ranking search results according to their relevance.
An Investigation of Hot Forging Die Wear Based on FEA

Taking the forging die of an automobile differential shell as example, the influence of some die forging process parameters and die structure parameters on the die wear was investigated. Based on a modified Archard wear model and the application of finite element method simulation, the die wear depth was calculated under a steady state temperature field. Within the scope of the experimental data, the research shows that: with the increase of billet preheating temperature, the wear is reduced gradually. Improving die preheating temperature, the wear increases gradually. When the forming speed is 300mm/s~400mm/s, the wear value decreases first and then increases.When the forming speed is over than 400mm/s, the change of wear value is not obvious. Increasing flash thickness and round radius, the wear value reduces gradually.
Study of rheological property of nylon‐1212 with Haake Rheometer

Rheological properties of nylon-1212 have been studied by means of Haake Rheometer. The effect of shear rate and temperature on the apparent vicosity of nylon-1212 was discussed. A correlation of non-Newtonian index with the temperature was obtained. The results showed that the apparent viscosity decreases with the increase of the temperature. With increasing shear rate, shear thinning of nylon-1212 was observed clearly. From the relation of the temperature dependence of the polymer, we obtained the viscous flow activation energy. We conclude that the apparent viscosity is sensitive to temperature at lower shear stress because of higher viscous flow activation energy, and the temperature affect on the apparent viscosity becomes weaker at higher shear stress because of lower viscous flow activation energy. We have investigated the creep and elastic recovery of nylon-1212. A creep test was carried out to define the linear viscoelastic range as 1.0 and 5.0 Pa for 195 and 190°C nylon-1212 melts, respectively. A time-dependent response was found for the creep and recovery phases at a lower applied shear stress. However, at higher shear stress, the creep and recovery phases were time-independent.
Surface ageing mechanisms and their relationship to service performance of silcone rubber insulation

This paper identifies corona and local arcing as the major ageing influences on silicone rubber surfaces. The hydrophobic properties of silicone rubber lead to the formation of discrete water droplets on the surface and these can lead to local enhancement of the electric field and corona activity. This activity leads to surface ageing and a consequent loss of hydrophobicity. Once wetting takes place, surface currents flow and dry bands form. Arcing across dry bands also leads to ageing but this is not as deleterious as corona ageing. Experimental evidence on corona ageing and the stages in the ageing process, in service, are presented.
Producing PVP Nanofibers by Electrospinning in N2

Electrospinning combined with nonsolvent-induced phase separation is a simple and novel method to produce porous nanofibers. In the study, Poly (vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) nanofibers were fabricated using an electrospinning approach complemented by compressed nitrogen (N). N2 was used as the nonsolvent of choice. Besides, the tun2ning of N2 pressure and temperature can impact the nanofibers’ morphologies by altering phase behavior and mass transfer. Also, the other parameters affecting electrospinning of polymer solution were discussed. The results were demonstrated by extending the technique to PVP/dichloromethane (DCM) and PVP/ethanol (EtOH) systems. And the binary phase equilibrium of solvents (dichloromethane or ethanol) and N simulated by ASPEN PLUS 2006 demonstrates that N is not a 2good choice for producing hollow or po2rous polymer nanofibers.
Relationship characteristics and contraceptive use among young adults.

CONTEXT Young adults have high rates of unintended childbearing and STDs, yet little research has examined the role of relationship characteristics in their contraceptive use. METHODS Data collected from the 2002-2005 rounds of the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth yielded a sample of 4,014 dating relationships among sexually active 18-26-year-olds. Bivariate analysis and multivariate logistic and multinomial logistic regressions assessed associations between relationship characteristics and contraceptive use at last sex. RESULTS In three-quarters of the relationships, respondents had used some method at last intercourse; respondents in 26% of the relationships had used a condom only, in 26% a hormonal method only and in 23% dual methods. Compared with respondents in relationships in which first sex occurred within two months of starting to date, those who first had sex before dating were more likely to have used any method at last sex (odds ratio, 1.4), particularly condoms or dual methods (relative risk ratio, 1.5 for each). The relative risk of using a hormonal method only, rather than no method or condoms only, increased with relationship duration (1.01) and level of intimacy (1.1-1.2). Discussing marriage or cohabitation was associated with reduced odds of having used any method (0.7) and a reduced relative risk of having used condoms alone or dual methods (0.6 for each). Increasing levels of partner conflict and asymmetry were also linked to reduced odds of any method use (0.97 and 0.90, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Prevention programs should address relationship context in contraceptive decision making, perhaps by combining relationship and sex education curricula to foster communication and negotiation skills.
Inferring data currency and consistency for conflict resolution

This paper introduces a new approach for conflict resolution: given a set of tuples pertaining to the same entity, it is to identify a single tuple in which each attribute has the latest and consistent value in the set. This problem is important in data integration, data cleaning and query answering. It is, however, challenging since in practice, reliable timestamps are often absent, among other things. We propose a model for conflict resolution, by specifying data currency in terms of partial currency orders and currency constraints, and by enforcing data consistency with constant conditional functional dependencies. We show that identifying data currency orders helps us repair inconsistent data, and vice versa. We investigate a number of fundamental problems associated with conflict resolution, and establish their complexity. In addition, we introduce a framework and develop algorithms for conflict resolution, by integrating data currency and consistency inferences into a single process, and by interacting with users. We experimentally verify the accuracy and efficiency of our methods using real-life and synthetic data.
Gold nano-particles as electrochemical signal amplifier for immune-reaction monitoring

A new signal amplification strategy based on simultaneous application of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was employed to improve the sensitivity of an electrochemical immunoassay for detection of human IgG (hIgG), as a model antigenic protein. This immunoassay system was fabricated on magnetic carboxylfunctionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (COOH-MWCNT/Fe3O4 nanocomposite). The COOH-MWCNT/Fe3O4 nanocomposite was constructed by chemical co-precipitation of Fe 2+ and Fe 3+ in alkaline solution in the presence of the COOH-MWCNT. Goat anti-human IgG (anti-hIgG) was covalently bound to the carbon nanotubes and the resulting anti-hIgG bearing nanocomposite was immobilized on the surface of a gold electrode using a permanent magnet. Human IgG (hIgG) as an antigen was detected electrochemically using a secondary HRP-conjugated anti-hIgG immobilized noncovalently on the surface of AuNPs. Electrochemical detection of hIgG was performed in the presence of H2O2 and KI as substrates of HRP. When the concentration of antigen was 200 ng/ml, the sandwich arrangement with AuNPs amplified electrochemical response 56 µA more than a same sandwich arrangement without AuNPs. Binding of HRP-conjugated anti-hIgG to AuNPs was studied by UV–Visible and fluorescence spectrophotometry. The spectrophotometric data showed that binding of antibody molecules to AuNPs occurred without any significant structural changes.
Studies on Improvement of Citrus unshiu Juice Quality and Utilization of Peels

Essential oil was recovered from the waste fluid in preparation of Citrus unshiu juice by InLine juice extractor at the periods from November, 1973 to March, 1974. Physical and chemical properties and yields of essential oil were examined monthly. Gas chromatography was conducted to separate aromatic constituents and components were identified by comparison of retention times with authentic compounds. In gas chromatography, better results were obtained by DEGS column to separate low boiling components, and by PEG-6000 column to separate high boiling components. Twenty six components were separated from essential oil by PEG-6000 column with program rate 4°C per minute. The major aroma components were terpene hydrocarbones whose prominent component was d-limonene. Terpene alcohols, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons and aliphatic aldehydes, were minor components. From the result of sensory evaluation, it was recognized that the minor components correlate to the flavor of essential oil. (Received Oct. 9, 1974)