Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The influence of sizing on the dynamic function of the free-hand implanted porcine aortic homograft: an in vitro study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS OF THE STUDY The influence of sizing on the function of a porcine aortic valve after its implantation using the free-hand technique in the subcoronary position was investigated. METHODS Dynamic function and leaflet configuration of the valve (n = 16) were first analyzed in its natural aortic root in a left heart simulator at 120/80 mmHg pressure and 4 l/min cardiac output. The valve was then implanted in the recipient porcine aortic root and re-studied. Three groups were investigated: group I (n = 4) comprised of 1-2 mm smaller donor aortic valve than the recipient; group II (n = 8) 3-4 mm smaller; and group III (n = 4) 5-7 mm smaller. Orifice area (OA), systolic and diastolic configurations of the leaflets, pattern and timing of leaflet opening and closure, commissural movement, pressure gradient and valvular regurgitation were analyzed. RESULTS In the intact donor aortic root, average expansion of the aorta at the commissures, for a pressure change from 0 to 80 mmHg, was about 42%. This was reduced significantly in all assemblies. Group I showed a 34% reduction in OA, and excessive leaflet bending; there was no aortic insufficiency (AI) or pressure gradient across the valve. In group III there was a lesser reduction in OA and reduced leaflet bending, but two of four valves had AI. In group II, the reduction in OA was only 13%, there was less leaflet bending, and no AI. CONCLUSIONS The donor valve 3-4 mm smaller than the recipient seems an optimal match. The current practice of using the same size donor as recipient may be responsible for excessive leaflet bending and may be implicated in early deterioration of the homograft.
Networking and Crisis Management Capacity: A Nested Analysis of Local-Level Collaboration in Sweden

Studies of how actors collaborate across organizational boundaries to prepare for and respond to extreme events have traditionally focused on describing network structure whereas fewer studies empirically investigate how network relationships influence crisis management capacities. Using survey data on crisis management work in Swedish municipalities, this study considers how the number of collaboration partners and venues for collaboration (networking) influence organizational goal attainment. Given managerial costs associated with increasingly complex collaboration networks, the study explores the diminishing returns hypothesis, which predicts a positive relationship between networking and goal attainment up to a certain point when payoffs do not increase. Results support a nonlinear relationship; networking at low levels had a positive effect on goal attainment whereas no relationship was found at moderate or high levels. To identify characteristics of collaboration conducive to performance, the study undertakes a comparative case study of two low-residual cases where the relationship between networking and performance follow the predicted nonlinear curve and one deviant case where high levels of networking had a positive effect on performance. The cases show that stable interpersonal relationships, clarification of the terms of collaboration, shared problem perceptions, and coordination of joint decision making constitute important assembly mechanisms for overcoming collective action problems.
Competing identities? Understanding the role of national and European identities in the case of Brexit

The study of European integration has increasingly become an important topic for IR-scholars and has developed into a field of its own. Scholarly interest in the role of identities in these regional integration processes has also risen over the last decades. This study can be comprised within this line of study. By using social constructivism as a theoretical framework, the paper seeks to understand the role of national and European identities in the case of Brexit. The paper also looks at identity formations of citizens and their attitudes towards European integration in relation with these identities. Although the UK has always stood on the sidelines of the European project, the results of the vote indicate that there are deeper processes that need to be studied. By using qualitative content analysis, the paper looks at framings in two national British newspapers and by two political leaders. The paper comes to the conclusion that these identities are both portrayed as compatible and competing with each other.
Ras‐dependent signal transduction is indispensable but not sufficient for the activation of AP1/Jun by PKC delta.

Modulation of gene expression by 12‐O‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate (TPA) is thought to be mediated by protein kinase C (PKC), a major cellular receptor for TPA. We confirm this by showing that the overexpression of PKC delta enhances the TPA induction of the TRE‐tk‐CAT reporter gene in NIH3T3 cells. To investigate the mutual relationship between PKC delta‐ and Ras‐dependent signal transduction pathways to a TRE binding transcription factor, AP1/Jun, we constructed constitutively active and dominant negative mutants of PKC delta. Activated Ras induced reporter gene expression in collaboration with overexpressed c‐Jun or JunD, and this induction was insensitive to the dominant negative PKC delta. On the other hand, reporter gene expression induced by the constitutively active PKC delta was severely inhibited by dominant negative Ras, as well as by the dominant negative PKC delta. Thus, Ras activation must be indispensable for PKC delta to activate AP1/Jun. In the absence of overexpressed c‐Jun or JunD, activated Ras was, however, clearly less effective than constitutively active PKC delta which showed full activation of reporter gene expression by itself. This suggests the presence of an additional, Ras‐independent, signaling pathway downstream of PKC delta to activate AP1/Jun. In spite of the remarkable ability of constitutively active PKC delta to activate TRE‐tk‐CAT expression, this mutant suppressed cell growth.
Simulated One Pass Listmode for fully 3D image reconstruction of Compton camera data

Image reconstruction for Compton camera data can be problematic due to the common trade-off between physically realistic models and speed of computation. In this investigation a novel method of system matrix calculation - Simulated One-Pass Listmode (SOPL) - is extended to incorporate Compton camera data. The method reduces the Cone Surface Response for the Compton camera to an ensemble of Siddon-rays and is conducted in two stages. As part of the ENVISION project for monitoring in hadron therapy, a continuous-crystal Lanthanum Bromide Compton camera has been developed and experimental data acquired. Continuous detection geometries are particularly susceptible to variation in both spatial and spectral resolution over the detection volume and so accurate yet flexible models of detection are particularly important. The SOPL-Compton method was applied via the Maximum Likelihood - Expectation Maximization algorithm to experimental data taken using the prototype device. In this investigation, detection modeling using SOPL-Compton in a two interaction Compton camera is validated and the incorporation of a shift-invariant image-space model confirmed as a useful modification to reduce computational expense. Finally experimental data taken using the prototype LaBr3 Compton camera provide confirmation of the SOPL-Compton approach to system modeling. Results indicate a fast, flexible and accurate algorithm that can easily be extended to alternate and novel detection geometries.
Structural Basis for Pterin Antagonism in Nitric-oxide Synthase

Pathological nitric oxide (NO) generation in sepsis, inflammation, and stroke may be therapeutically controlled by inhibiting NO synthases (NOS). Here we targeted the (6R)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-l-biopterin (H4Bip)-binding site of NOS, which, upon cofactor binding, maximally increases enzyme activity and NO production from substratel-arginine. The first generation of H4Bip-based NOS inhibitors employed a 4-amino pharmacophore of H4Bip analogous to antifolates such as methotrexate. We developed a novel series of 4-oxo-pteridine derivatives that were screened for inhibition against neuronal NOS (NOS-I) and a structure-activity relationship was determined. To understand the structural basis for pterin antagonism, selected derivatives were docked into the NOS pterin binding cavity. Using a reduced 4-oxo-pteridine scaffold, derivatives with certain modifications such as electron-rich aromatic phenyl or benzoyl groups at the 5- and 6-positions, were discovered to markedly inhibit NOS-I, possibly due to hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions with Phe462 and Ser104, respectively, within the pterin binding pocket. One of the most effective 4-oxo compounds and, for comparisons an active 4-amino derivative, were then co-crystallized with the endothelial NOS (NOS-III) oxygenase domain and this structure solved to confirm the hypothetical binding modes. Collectively, these findings suggest (i) that, unlike the antifolate principle, the 4-amino substituent is not essential for developing pterin-based NOS inhibitors and (ii), provide a steric and electrostatic basis for their rational design.
KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT AND COLLABORATION EFFECTS: SOUTH-SOUTH NGO COLLABORATION: A CASE STUDY ON THE BRAZILIAN INTERDISCIPLINARY AIDS ASSOCIATION

In June 2008, the Brazilian Interdisciplinary AIDS Association (ABIA) and the Indian NGO SAHARA submitted a joint pre-grant opposition to the patent application of Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate in India. This joint action provides a pertinent case model of the potential effects of South-South cooperation between civil society groups. In this study, the aim sought to determine the practicality of the methodology and propositions developed in Resources, Knowledge and Influence: the Organizational Effects of Interorganizational Collaboration (Hardy et al., 2003) in predicting the types of collaboration effects that would result from the degree of “involvement” and “embeddedness” of a collaboration. Data collection came from archival research, participant observation research and interviews. Research tasks included an investigation on South-South Cooperation in the area of IP rights and AIDS, compiling an SLR on knowledge management and collaboration theories, creating a chronology of the collaboration and application of aforementioned methodology. Application included (1) implementation of codification methodology based on “involvement” and “embeddedness” and (2) identification of types of effects in collaboration - strategic, knowledge creation or political. During data analysis, these effects were compared with the aims of collaboration. Results were then tested against propositions (Hardy et al., 2003) of the relationship between involvement and embeddedness and the collaborative effects. Findings support three propositions: (1) Collaborations with high levels of involvement will be positively associated with the acquisition of distinctive resources, (2) Collaborations with high levels of involvement and high levels of embeddedness will be positively associated with the creation of knowledge, (3) Collaborations that are highly embedded will be positively associated with an increase of influence.
Patch testing in drug allergy

Purpose of reviewThe review intends to clarify understanding of when and how skin patch tests can be used to help drug allergy diagnosis and identify causally relevant drugs. It aims to give an understanding of which clinical patterns of drug reaction are produced by T-lymphocyte-mediated pathomechanisms since these are what are detected by patch tests. It also covers fundamental principles underlying patch test methodology and summarizes clinical patterns and causal drugs for which patch tests have reasonable value to diagnose culprit drugs. Recent findingsA number of recent studies have consolidated evidence that the use of patch tests in drug hypersensitivity diagnosis is not a robust science. The field is bedeviled by the lack of standardized approach to ascertain and define clinical entities in a sufficiently clear way that allows researchers to be confident that patch tests are used appropriately in T-cell-mediated clinical conditions. The literature is confounded by case series including patch tests from conditions which may be the wrong type of test causing the sensitivity of the test system to be measured incorrectly. SummaryFor certain drug eruptions mediated by T cells (exanthemata, acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, erythema multiforme/toxic epidermal necrolysis, fixed drug eruption and symmetrical drug-related intertriginous and flexural exanthem) patch tests can elicit positive responses in a proportion of cases. The test works best with aromatic anticonvulsants and various antibiotics but does not appear to work consistently with a wide range of drugs. A coordinated and systematic research effort is required to resolve inconsistencies to encourage greater utilization of this potentially important diagnostic methodology.
Two-Finger InP HEMT Design for Stable Cryogenic Operation of Ultra-Low-Noise Ka- and Q-Band LNAs

We investigate the cryogenic stability of two-finger 100-nm gate-length InP HEMTs aimed for Ka- and Q-band ultra-low noise amplifiers (LNAs). InP HEMTs with unit gate widths ranging between 30 and 50 $\mu \text{m}$ exhibit unstable cryogenic behavior with jumps in drain current and discontinuous peaks in transconductance. We also find that shorter gate length enhances the cryogenic instability. We demonstrate that the instability of two-finger transistors can be suppressed by either adding a source air bridge, connecting the back end of gates, or increasing the gate resistance. A three-stage 24–40 GHz and a four-stage 28–52-GHz monolithic microwave-integrated circuit LNA using the stabilized InP HEMTs are presented. The Ka-band amplifier achieves a minimum noise temperature of 7 K at 25.6 GHz with an average noise temperature of 10.6 K at an ambient temperature of 5.5 K. The amplifier gain is 29 dB ± 0.6 dB. The Q-band amplifier exhibits minimum noise temperature of 6.7 K at 32.8 GHz with average noise temperature of 10 K at ambient temperature of 5.5 K. The amplifier gain is 34 dB ± 0.8 dB. To our knowledge, the Ka- and Q-band amplifiers demonstrate the lowest noise temperature reported so far for InP cryogenic LNAs.
Additive Effects of Chlorin E6 and Metal Ion Binding on the Thermal Stability of Rhodopsin In Vitro †

Zinc (Zn2+) deficiency causes retinal dysfunctions such as night blindness and neurodegeneration. Because Zn2+ binds directly to the photoreceptor rhodopsin and alters its stability, the stabilization of rhodopsin may be key to prevention and treatment of retinal dysfunctions. In this paper, we investigated if not only trace metals but also other nutrients may stabilize rhodopsin structure in vitro. Detailed studies of the thermal stability of secondary and tertiary structure of rhodopsin in the presence and absence of the chlorophyll derivative chlorin e6 alone and together with bivalent metal ions Zn2+, Cu2+, Fe2+, Ni2+, Mg2+and Mn2+ over a temperature range 5–100°C were conducted using circular dichroism and fluorescence spectroscopy. When both chlorin e6 and Zn2+ are present, a pronounced increase in the thermal stability of overall secondary structure content is observed compared to either compound alone. This additive capacity is also noted with Cu2+, but not when other metal ions and chlorin e6 are combined.
Numerical simulation on the influence of gob permeability on distribution of air leakage flow field

In the coal mine industry, permeability is a key factor to air leakage in gob, its value and distribution influence greatly the distribution of air leakage. CFD is applied to simulate the distribution of air leakage in gob at various permeability magnitudes. Gob refers to a porous medium made from loose coal and collapsed stratum mixture. It shows that the quantity of air leakage and distribution of air velocity, three zones of spontaneous combustion vary largely under condition of different magnitude of permeability. The permeability in gob is seen to gradually reduce. It shows the quantity of air leakage is small and air velocity in waste is low, and spontaneous combustion zone is close to the working face. The graph of relation between distance and air leakage rate shows that spontaneous combustion zone in gob will disappear on account of the lack air leakage rate. Therefore, by mean of technological measure such as gob grouting technique, it can reduce the permeability of gob, raise diffusion resistance of airflow, decrease air leakage from working area, and ease the danger of the spontaneous combustion.
CEACAM1, a Novel Serum Biomarker for Pancreatic Cancer

Objectives: Serum biomarkers for early diagnosis of pancreatic adenocarcinoma are not currently available. We recently observed elevated expression of CEACAM1 in pancreatic adenocarcinomas and sought to determine whether serum CEACAM1 levels were elevated in pancreatic cancer patients. Methods: CEACAM1 messenger RNA levels were measured in pancreatic tissue samples using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. CEACAM1 was localized by immunohistochemistry in adenocarcinomas and in pancreatic intraductal neoplasia lesions. CEACAM1 serum levels were assessed by a double determinant enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and compared with serum levels of CA19-9. Results: CEACAM1 had higher expression levels in pancreatic adenocarcinomas compared with noncancerous pancreas (P < 0.0001) and was localized to neoplastic cells (95% (45/47) of adenocarcinomas and 85% (17/20) of pancreatic intraductal neoplasia 3 lesions. CEACAM1 was expressed in the sera of 91% (74/81) of pancreatic cancer patients, 24% (15/61) of normal patients, and 66% (35/53) of patients with chronic pancreatitis, with a sensitivity and specificity superior to CA19-9. The combination of CEACAM1 and CA19-9 had significantly higher diagnostic accuracy than CA19-9. Conclusions: CEACAM1 is expressed in pancreatic adenocarcinoma, and serum levels of CEACAM1 serve as a useful indicator for the presence of pancreatic cancer. Additional validation studies on the use of serum CEACAM1 as a diagnostic marker in pancreatic cancer are warranted.Abbreviations: AUC - area under the curve, ROC - receiver operator characteristics
Cortical folding scales universally with surface area and thickness, not number of neurons

The best way to fold a mammalian brain As mammalian brains grew larger through evolution, the organization and folding of brains changed too. In a series of statistical analyses comparing a large number of mammalian species, Mota and Herculano-Houzel found that brain folding is not simply a phylogenetic consequence of brain mass increase (see the Perspective by Striedter and Srinivasan). The exposed surface of the cortex scales across all mammals and across individuals as a single power law of the product of total cortical surface and the square root of cortical thickness. Science, this issue p. 74; see also p. 31 A general physical rule governs brain folding across species and even individuals. [Also see Perspective by Striedter and Srinivasan] Larger brains tend to have more folded cortices, but what makes the cortex fold has remained unknown. We show that the degree of cortical folding scales uniformly across lissencephalic and gyrencephalic species, across individuals, and within individual cortices as a function of the product of cortical surface area and the square root of cortical thickness. This relation is derived from the minimization of the effective free energy associated with cortical shape according to a simple physical model, based on known mechanisms of axonal elongation. This model also explains the scaling of the folding index of crumpled paper balls. We discuss the implications of this finding for the evolutionary and developmental origin of folding, including the newfound continuum between lissencephaly and gyrencephaly, and for pathologies such as human lissencephaly.
Capnocytophaga granulosa and Capnocytophaga haemolytica: novel species in subgingival plaque.

BACKGROUND The oral cavity accommodates one of the most diverse microfloras in the human body. Knowledge of this microflora, and of the periodontal microflora in particular, proves crucial towards an understanding of the bacterial-host interactions which lead to the development of infectious inflammatory periodontal diseases. Capnocytophaga species have been implicated as putative periodontal pathogens. To date, only 3 members of this genus (C. gingivalis, C. ochracea and C. sputigena) have been isolated from subgingival plaque. AIM This communication reports the isolation of 2 recently-speciated strains, namely C. granulosa and C. haemolytica, from subgingival plaque collected from adult periodontitis patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS Subgingival plaque was collected from 29 patients with chronic adult periodontitis. Plaque samples were inoculated onto fastidious anaerobe agar and incubated anaerobically for 5 days. Routine identification of clinical isolates was performed by 16S rRNA PCR-RFLP analysis, using Cfo I as restriction enzyme and corroborated by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. RESULTS 16 of 29 patients (55%) tested positive for either C. granulosa and or C. haemolytica. A total of 70 isolates (63 C. granulosa and 7 C. haemolytica) were cultivated from subgingival plaque. 15 (51%) patients tested positive for C. granulosa, and 3 (10%) patients tested positive for C. haemolytica. CONCLUSION This is the 1st report which recounts the presence of C. granulosa and C. haemolytica in subgingival plaque. Further research is required to establish the relative proportions of these species subgingivally in health and disease.
Performance evaluation of nsclick simulator for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks

In order to evaluate the behavior and performance of protocols for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) both simulation and test bed are often used. The simulation is used in first stages and the test bed is used in final stages of development process when real-world tests are needed. Click Modular Router is known as an efficient software architecture for building flexible and configurable routers for test bed. However, when moving from simulation to test bed, source code usually needs to be reim-plemented. As a result, there must be a cost of maintaining two completely different code-bases. The tool nsclick was introduced to address this issue. It is constructed by embedding the Click Modular Router inside of the NS-2 network simulator. The source code with nsclick may run both on actual systems as well as under simulator with minor modifications. In this paper, we provided an intensive performance comparison between nsclick and NS-2 by carefully implementing a broadcast algorithm in both simulators. In addition, we designed and implemented an efficient jitter element in nsclick. Simulation results show that nsclick is a useful and effective tool for evaluating protocols in MANETs. The results also indicate that our jitter element can significantly reduce packet collision and thus improve performance of nsclick.