Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of diabetes mellitus in male partners of infertile couples.

AIM The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) in a population of male partners of infertile couples, to evaluate their seminal and biochemical parameters and to plan therapeutic strategies to achieve pregnancy. METHODS Standard semen analysis was carried out in 510 male partners of infertile couples, aged 25 to 51 years. RESULTS The prevalence of DM in the subjects studied was 1.18%, 4 cases with non insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and 2 cases with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). Three subjects with NIDDM and 1 with IDDM had normal ejaculation. Semen analysis of these subjects showed qualitative alteration; the most important effects concerned the kinetic properties, especially progressive motility. Sperm morphology was also significantly compromised. On the other hand, sperm concentration did not show significant alterations. The therapeutic iter in these subjects is similar to that for other dyspermic male partners of infertile couples. The 2 remaining subjects (one with NIDDM and one with IDDM) had retrograde ejaculation (sperm recovery from post-orgasmic urine) and were included in intrauterine insemination or in vitro fertilization programs. In addition, in the subjects with DM, the biochemical seminal profile showed significantly higher levels of fructose compared with the nondiabetic subjects. CONCLUSION DM has a negative impact both in terms of sperm quality and of the ejaculation mechanism. The low prevalence of DM among this study population of 510 male partners of infertile couples is due to the low prevalence of DM in this age range.
Associations between self-reported fruit and vegetable consumption and home availability of fruit and vegetables among Greek primary-school children

Abstract Objective To examine whether the self-reported fruit and vegetable consumption of Greek primary-school children is associated with the home availability of fruit and vegetables. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Five primary schools in the city of Pyrgos in south-west Greece. Subjects One hundred and sixty-seven students in fifth and sixth grades. Methods Fruit and vegetable consumption was assessed using an FFQ. Home availability of fruit and vegetables was assessed using a modified version of a US home availability questionnaire. Participant BMI was assessed and parental education obtained by self-report. Hierarchical regression models that took account of the clustering of participants in schools were used to examine the relationship between consumption and availability after controlling for parental education and BMI. Results Regression analyses showed that home availability of fruit was a significant predictor of consumption (β = 0·524, Z = 9·77, P < 0·001) in a model that explained 46 % of the overall variance. Home availability of vegetables was a significant predictor of vegetable intake (β = 0·378, Z = 6·23, P < 0·001) in a model that explained 29 % of the overall variance. Conclusion Home availability of fruit and vegetables was associated with consumption among Greek primary-school children. The association between home availability of fruit and intake was higher than the associations that have been reported in other samples. Results support focusing on the home availability of fruit and vegetables as a potential mediator of consumption that could be manipulated as a means of increasing fruit and vegetable intake among children.
The structural properties of magainin in water, TFE/water, and aqueous urea solutions: Molecular dynamics simulations

Here, the MD simulations and comparative structural analysis of Magainin in water, TFE/water, and 2M, 4M, and BM urea solutions is reported. For MAG‐TFE/water and MAG‐2M urea the largely alpha helical conformation of the peptide is maintained throughout the 9‐ns simulation. While in water, 4M urea, and 8M urea, the helix length decreases and at the same time helix radius increases. This suggests a more destabilized magainin secondary structure. Our simulation data reveals that the stabilizing effect of TFE is induced by preferential accumulation of TFE molecules around the alpha helical peptide. These results indicate that an aqueous urea solution solvates the sutface of polypeptide chain more favorably than pure water. Urea molecules interact more favorably with nonpolar groups of the peptide in comparison with water, and the presence of urea improves the interactions of water molecules with the hydrophilic groups of the peptide. At 8M urea, there are more direct interactions between the urea and solute, and the helix is destabilized. At 2M urea, the interaction of urea molecules and nonpolar residues are weak, therefore, the presence of urea molecules decreases the interactions of water molecules with hydrophilic groups. Urea could not deteriorate the peptide secondary structure with time from an initial helix structure. Proteins 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Binding of glucocorticoid receptors to model DNA response elements

DNA sequences were synthesized that contained the consensus 15‐base pair glucocorticoid receptor binding site linked to flanking sequences of various lengths. Binding of these synthetic oligomers to glucocorticoid receptor, employing a reconstituted binding system with purified components, indicated that a minimal size of approximately 45 base pairs was necessary to bind the receptor optimally. Sequences containing multiple receptor binding sites competed more effectively for binding. These findings are consistent with recent demonstrations that multiple control elements act synergistically to affect transcriptional control by glucocorticoids and confirm that regions flanking the consensus GRE binding site are instrumental in optimizing binding interactions.
Exploring the Nature of Third Places and Local Social Ties in High-Density Areas: The Case of a Large Mixed-Use Complex

ABSTRACT Evidence on the social sustainability of higher residential densities, as planned for in compact city policies, is mixed. Understanding the factors contributing to social sustainability in these contexts is key to compact cities' future success. This paper clarifies the concept of “third places”, spaces where people socialise and develop “weak tie” relationships, and appraises its relevance to social sustainability at high density. Findings around the form of third places and weak ties are presented from a mixed-use high-density complex in Sydney, Australia, facilitating the identification and development of spaces contributing to social sustainability at higher residential densities.
Searching for meaning in negative events: concept analysis.

AIM The aim of this paper was to synthesize the literature related to meaning and present a conceptual analysis of searching for meaning in unexpected, significant, negative events. BACKGROUND Events or situations that are perceived as unexpected and negative (e.g. chronic and/or life-threatening illness) can disrupt life plans and lead to emotional distress. Nurses are in a key position to aid in the coping process by assisting individuals to integrate the meaning of an unexpected, negative event into the life experience. METHODS In May 2004, a comprehensive literature search using the terms meaning, search for meaning, meaning-making, making meaning, life change events, adaptation-psychological, stress, and coping was carried out. Of 339 possible references, 86 were included in the analysis. FINDINGS Global meaning refers to an individual's beliefs, values, and purpose/goals. Situational meaning refers to the meaning the individual attaches to a situation. When the meaning attached to the situation is not congruent with global meaning, meaning is considered shattered and a search for meaning ensues. In the search for meaning, people may attempt to change the meaning of the event (through reattributions or creating illusions) or change global meaning (through positive reappraisal, problem-solving coping, or revaluing ordinary events). CONCLUSION Nurses are in a key position to assist people through negative events. The process of searching for meaning provides a solid foundation for the development of nursing interventions to assist individuals through difficult times. Research is needed to develop nursing interventions based on the process of the search for meaning, as well as measures reflective of the search for meaning.
Assessing the Rebound Effect in Energy Intensive Industries: A Factor Demand Model Approach with Asymmetric Price Response

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the direct rebound effect poten-tially prevailing in energy intense industries. The rebound effect repre-sents economic mechanisms that will offset energy savings from energy efficiency improvements. For this purpose, a factor demand model is applied incorporating an asymmetric energy price response. Asymmetric prices imply that firms respond more strongly to energy price increases than to energy price decreases. In the empirical model we use a firm level, unbalanced panel covering the years 2001 to 2012 and four major Swedish energy-intensive industries; pulp and paper, iron and steel, chemical, and mining. The result indicates that the rebound effect is considerable in these industries. To mitigate this effect, the results sug-gest that policies stimulating an increase in energy efficiency should be combined with a raise in energy taxes.
Getting close to the media world? On the attraction of encountering film industry professionals at Shanghai International Film Festival

textabstractDespite its important role in film festival experiences, media encounters, post-screening talks in particular, have only been sporadically discussed so far. This study probes into the meanings attached to media encounters in the Chinese context, by focusing on film festival-goers’ motivations and experiences at the 19th Shanghai International Film Festival. Based on in-depth interviews and participant observation, results show that SIFF goers expect to get close to film industry professionals, and by attending talks, they hope to gain insights into the film production process and discover the personal drives of production team members. The respondents draw a line between meeting celebrities and meeting film production members, showing an outspoken preference for the latter based on articulations of professionalism. Contrary to their expectations, most SIFF goers experience a clear distance between themselves and the film industry professionals. This rift is not criticised, but justified by both practical arguments and ideas about how it should be. We conclude that talks at the SIFF enrich the communal setting of the film festival and provide more opportunities for social engagement, while at the same time reconfirming the special status of media professionals.
Noninvasive optimization of left ventricular filling using esophageal Doppler

ObjectiveTo confirm whether the descending aortic blood flow velocity waveform variable of flow time corrected for heart rate, measured using an esophageal Doppler transducer, can be used for noninvasive optimization of left ventricular (LV) filling. SettingICU and operating theater. SubjectsForty-three mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU or undergoing cardiothoracic surgery in whom a pulmonary arterial catheter was in situ. InterventionsLV preload was a) increased from hypovolemic states (pulmonary arterial occlusion pressure [PAOP] <8 mm Hg) by fluid challenge, b) decreased from normovolemic states (PAOP 10 to 15 mm Hg) by either iv nitrates or intravascular fluid loss, and c) decreased from heart failure or fluid overload states (PAOP <20 mm Hg) by iv nitrates. No other maneuver was performed concurrently. Measurements and Main ResultsDescending aortic blood flow was measured by an esophageal Doppler transducer. Corrected flow time was calculated by dividing systolic flow time by the square root of the cycle time. PAOP and corrected flow time increased after fluid challenges in hypovolemic states, and decreased when LV preload was decreased from normovolemic states. However, when preload was decreased from overload states, PAOP always decreased, but the corrected flow time usually increased before any subsequent decrease. The greatest value of corrected flow time corresponded with the maximal stroke volume seen. ConclusionsEsophageal Doppler measurement of aortic blood flow can be used for rapid, noninvasive optimization of LV filling in mechanically ventilated patients.
In vitro and in vivo experimental studies on trabecular meshwork degeneration induced by benzalkonium chloride (an American Ophthalmological Society thesis).

PURPOSE Long-term antiglaucomatous drug administration may cause irritation, dry eye, allergy, subconjunctival fibrosis, or increased risk of glaucoma surgery failure, potentially due to the preservative benzalkonium chloride (BAK), whose toxic, proinflammatory, and detergent effects have extensively been shown experimentally. We hypothesize that BAK also influences trabecular meshwork (TM) degeneration. METHODS Trabecular specimens were examined using immunohistology and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. A trabecular cell line was stimulated by BAK and examined for apoptosis, oxidative stress, fractalkine and SDF-1 expression, and modulation of their receptors. An experimental model was developed with BAK subconjunctival injections to induce TM degeneration. Mass spectrometry (MS) imaging assessed BAK penetration after repeated instillations in rabbit eyes. RESULTS Trabecular specimens showed extremely low densities of trabecular cells and presence of cells expressing fractalkine and fractalkine receptor and their respective mRNAs. Benzalkonium in vitro induced apoptosis, oxidative stress, and fractalkine expression and inhibited the protective chemokine SDF-1 and Bcl2, also inducing a sustained intraocular pressure (IOP) increase, with dramatic apoptosis of trabecular cells and reduction of aqueous outflow. MS imaging showed that BAK could access the TM at measurable levels after repeated instillations. CONCLUSION BAK enhances all characteristics of TM degeneration typical of glaucoma-trabecular apoptosis, oxidative stress, induction of inflammatory chemokines-and causes degeneration in acute experimental conditions, potentially mimicking long-term accumulation. BAK was also shown to access the TM after repeated instillations. These findings support the hypothesis that antiglaucoma medications, through toxicity of their preservative, may cause further long-term trabecular degeneration and therefore enhance outflow resistance, reducing the impact of IOP-lowering agents.
Acinetobacter baumannii RecA Protein in Repair of DNA Damage, Antimicrobial Resistance, General Stress Response, and Virulence

ABSTRACT RecA is the major enzyme involved in homologous recombination and plays a central role in SOS mutagenesis. In Acinetobacter spp. , including Acinetobacter baumannii , a multidrug-resistant bacterium responsible for nosocomial infections worldwide, DNA repair responses differ in many ways from those of other bacterial species. In this work, the function of A. baumannii RecA was examined by constructing a recA mutant. Alteration of this single gene had a pleiotropic effect, showing the involvement of RecA in DNA damage repair and consequently in cellular protection against stresses induced by DNA damaging agents, several classes of antibiotics, and oxidative agents. In addition, the absence of RecA decreased survival in response to both heat shock and desiccation. Virulence assays in vitro (with macrophages) and in vivo (using a mouse model) similarly implicated RecA in the pathogenicity of A. baumannii . Thus, the data strongly suggest a protective role for RecA in the bacterium and indicate that inactivation of the protein can contribute to a combined therapeutic approach to controlling A. baumannii infections.
Reasons for Accident and Emergency department attendance by people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or heart failure: recipients and providers’ perspectives. An exploratory study

Introduction Fifteen million people are affected by one or more long-term conditions in England. The cost of caring for this patient group increases every year. Several studies have been conducted to find out why people with those conditions choose to access Accident and Emergency (A&E) frequently. To our knowledge, there is no study that compares the three groups (patients, family members and hospital clinicians), and this approach may enhance understanding of A&E admissions in England. Therefore, an exploratory study was undertaken to identify key factors that contribute to A&E admissions as perceived by patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart failure (HF), their family members (or carers) and hospital clinicians. Methods A mixed methods approach was undertaken: (1) semistructured interviews with patients and their family members (or carers) and (2) a self-developed survey with hospital clinicians. A purposive sample of 15 patients (9 COPD, 6 HF), 6 family members and carers (2 COPD, 4 HF) and 13 hospital clinicians (5 doctors, 8 nurses) participated in the study. Results The patients’ main reason for A&E admission was severe exacerbation of their symptoms and all three parties (patients, family members or carers, hospital clinicians) agreed with this decision. Three key factors were highlighted in relation to A&E attendance: (1) patients’ health-seeking behaviour, (2) perceptions about general practitioner (GP) and A&E services by patients and (3) patients’ attitudes towards managing their own conditions. Conclusions Improving patients’ perceptions of GP services in the management of exacerbations of HF and COPD will be important to increase patients’ trust in GP services so that patients will access primary care in a timely manner to prevent exacerbations of symptoms that require A&E admission. This may be achieved by developing a close collaboration between the patients, family members (carers) and hospital clinicians over time.
Toward enhanced mobile video services over WiMAX and LTE [WiMAX/LTE Update]

Wireless networks are on the verge of a third phase of growth. The first phase was dominated by voice traffic, and the second phase, which we are currently in, is dominated by data traffic. In the third phase we predict that the traffic will be dominated by video and will require new ways to optimize the network to prevent saturation. This increase in video traffic is one of the key drivers of the evolution to new mobile broadband standards like WiMAX IEEE 802.16m and 3G LTE and LTE-Advanced, motivating the need to enhance the video service capabilities of future cellular and mobile broadband systems. Therefore, it is important to understand both the potential and limitations of these networks for delivering video content in the future, which will include not only traditional video broadcasts, but also video streaming and uploading in the uplink direction. In that vein this article provides an overview of technology options for enabling multicast and unicast video services over WiMAX and LTE networks, quantifies and compares the video capacities of these networks in realistic environments, and discusses new techniques that could be exploited in the future to further enhance the video capacity and quality of user experience.
Soldier attitudes toward mental health screening and seeking care upon return from combat.

OBJECTIVE This study examined soldier attitudes about postdeployment mental health screening, treatment, barriers to care, strategies for overcoming barriers, and settings, personnel and timing for conducting postdeployment mental health screening. METHODS Deploying soldiers participated in a voluntary anonymous survey. RESULTS Of 3,294 soldiers, 2,678 (81.3%) responded to the survey. When the three most endorsed perceived barriers to mental health care (negative perception by unit members, negative perception by leaders, and being viewed as weak) were examined, approximately 15% fewer soldiers endorsed the perceptions, compared with a previous study conducted at the beginning of the war. Receipt of training focused on managing psychological problems associated with increased agreement to seek treatment. Participants endorsed surveys, interviews, and unit providers as preferred instruments and providers for postdeployment screening. Soldiers endorsed encouragement from family members and friends as the preferred approach to reducing barriers to mental health care. CONCLUSION Extensive educational programs seemed to have reduced the stigma related to receiving mental health care. Programs that focus on friend and family member encouragement of soldiers to seek mental health assistance should continue. Postdeployment screening should be conducted under conditions in which soldiers are most likely to report problems honestly.
Cell- and Protein-Directed Glycosylation of Native Cleaved HIV-1 Envelope

ABSTRACT The gp120/gp41 HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) is highly glycosylated, with up to 50% of its mass consisting of N-linked glycans. This dense carbohydrate coat has emerged as a promising vaccine target, with its glycans acting as epitopes for a number of potent and broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs). Characterizing the glycan structures present on native HIV-1 Env is thus a critical goal for the design of Env immunogens. In this study, we used a complementary, multistep approach involving ion mobility mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography to comprehensively characterize the glycan structures present on HIV-1 gp120 produced in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The capacity of different expression systems, including pseudoviral particles and recombinant cell surface trimers, to reproduce native-like glycosylation was then assessed. A population of oligomannose glycans on gp120 was reproduced across all expression systems, supporting this as an intrinsic property of Env that can be targeted for vaccine design. In contrast, Env produced in HEK 293T cells failed to accurately reproduce the highly processed complex-type glycan structures observed on PBMC-derived gp120, and in particular the precise linkage of sialic acid residues that cap these glycans. Finally, we show that unlike for gp120, the glycans decorating gp41 are mostly complex-type sugars, consistent with the glycan specificity of bnAbs that target this region. These findings provide insights into the glycosylation of native and recombinant HIV-1 Env and can be used to inform strategies for immunogen design and preparation. IMPORTANCE Development of an HIV vaccine is desperately needed to control new infections, and elicitation of HIV bnAbs will likely be an important component of an effective vaccine. Increasingly, HIV bnAbs are being identified that bind to the N-linked glycans coating the HIV envelope glycoproteins gp120 and gp41, highlighting them as important targets for vaccine design. It is therefore important to characterize the glycan structures present on native, virion-associated gp120 and gp41 for development of vaccines that accurately mimic native-Env glycosylation. In this study, we used a number of analytical techniques to precisely study the structures of both the oligomannose and complex-type glycans present on native Env to provide a reference for determining the ability of potential HIV immunogens to accurately replicate the glycosylation pattern on these native structures.
Effect of low versus normal birthweight on menarche in 14‐year‐old Polish girls

Objective: The relationship between intrauterine growth retardation and sexual maturation has not been completely established. The aim of the present study was to compare menarche in 14‐year‐old Polish girls of low and normal birthweight, along with an evaluation of the impact of socio‐economic status and body mass index (BMI).