Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Structure-based Functional Study Reveals Multiple Roles of Transmembrane Segment IX and Loop VIII–IX in NhaA Na+/H+ Antiporter of Escherichia coli at Physiological pH*

The three-dimensional crystal structure of Escherichia coli NhaA determined at pH 4 provided the first structural insights into the mechanism of antiport and pH regulation of a Na+/H+ antiporter. However, because NhaA is activated at physiological pH (pH 6.5–8.5), many questions pertaining to the active state of NhaA have remained open including the structural and physiological roles of helix IX and its loop VIII–IX. Here we studied this NhaA segment (Glu241–Phe267) by structure-based biochemical approaches at physiological pH. Cysteine-scanning mutagenesis identified new mutations affecting the pH dependence of NhaA, suggesting their contribution to the “pH sensor. ” Furthermore mutation F267C reduced the H+/Na+ stoichiometry of the antiporter, and F267C/F344C inactivated the antiporter activity. Tests of accessibility to [2-(trimethylammonium)ethyl]methanethiosulfonate bromide, a membrane-impermeant positively charged SH reagent with a width similar to the diameter of hydrated Na+, suggested that at physiological pH the cytoplasmic cation funnel is more accessible than at acidic pH. Assaying intermolecular cross-linking in situ between single Cys replacement mutants uncovered the NhaA dimer interface at the cytoplasmic side of the membrane; between Leu255 and the cytoplasm, many Cys replacements cross-link with various cross-linkers spanning different distances (10–18Å) implying a flexible interface. L255C formed intermolecular S–S bonds, cross-linked only with a 5-Å cross-linker, and when chemically modified caused an alkaline shift of 1 pH unit in the pH dependence of NhaA and a 6-fold increase in the apparent Km for Na+ of the exchange activity suggesting a rigid point in the dimer interface critical for NhaA activity and pH regulation.
Adrenal function in normal women and women with the polycystic ovary syndrome.

The role of the adrenal gland in the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCO) was reassessed. A series of C19 and C21 steroids and pituitary hormones was investigated by measurements of serum cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), an-drostenediol (Adiol), androstenedione (A), testosterone (T), pregnenolone (Pe), 17-hydroxypregnenolone (17Pe), progester-one (Po), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17Po), DHEA sulphate, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), LH, FSH, and PRL in nine normal women in the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle and nine women with PCO. Fluctuations of C19 and their C21 precursors were determined during the 24-h endogenous ACTH swings. The responses to dexamethasone suppression and to subsequent stimulation with two small pulses (200 ng/1.5 m2) of ACTH (to assess adrenal sensitivity) and an infusion (20 μg/2 h) of ACTH (to assess adrenal capacity) were analyzed. Significantly elevated basal levels of A, T, 17Po, and LH were found in the PCO group. In the normal subjects, a circadian rhythm s.
Thymic Epithelial Cells

We show that thymic epithelial cells grown under serum‐free conditions in a chemically defined culture medium can act as veto cells in vitro. The veto activity of thymic epithelial cells results in inactivation of specific alloreactive cytotoxic T‐cell precursors at the clonal level. It is concluded that the epithelial stromal cells of the thymus, by acting as veto cells, may he responsible for the negative intrathymic selection of self‐reactive thymocytes leading to elimination of the vast majority of immature thymic lymphocytes.
Very Frequent Fallers and Future Fall Injury

Objectives: To examine the relationship between falls history, especially those with frequent recent falls, and future injurious falls. Method: Resident Assessment Instrument for Home Care records of 167,162 home care recipients in Ontario, Canada, were linked to emergency department records recording an injurious fall. Diagnosis codes further informed the nature of the injuries. Results: Persons with a high number of recent falls tended to be younger, and more likely to have Parkinson’s or multiple sclerosis. Odds ratios for a future injurious fall, compared with zero recent falls, were as follows: 1.58 (1 fall), 1.91 (2 or 3 falls), 2.54 (4-8 falls), 3.07 (9 or more falls). Injuries among those with multiple recent falls were more likely to be head injuries with an open wound. Discussion: Persons reporting high number of recent falls were at the greatest risk of a future injurious fall and should receive the greatest attention in care planning.
Hypomelanosis from an antioxidant in polyethylene film.

Two Negro children, one with psoriasis and one with eczema, developed hypopigmentation after treatment with polyethylene film (Polythene) applied over a steroid ointment. The area of depigmentation was limited to the skin covered by the polyethylene. Analysis of the film showed that it contained butylated hydroxytoluene as an antioxidant to prevent decomposition, and this seemed to be the responsible factor. In one patient, the skin gradually returned to normal eight weeks after stopping treatment; in the other, there was no sign of repigmentation four weeks after cessation of treatment.
Détection et suivi basé modèle pour des applications spatiales

Cet article concerne la problematique de navigation dans le cadre de rendez-vous spatial, autonome, non cooperatif avec des cibles de type satellites, vehicules ou debris spa- tiaux. Afin de localiser completement la cible par rapport a un vehicule dit chasseur a l'aide d'un capteur de vision, une technique de detection et de suivi base modele est proposee. Notre approche de suivi traite ainsi le modele 3D complet d'objects presentant une geometrie complexe, de tout type de forme, en tirant profit de l'acceleration ma- terielle. A partir du modele rendu, des correspondances sont etablies avec les contours de l'image et la tâche d'estimation de pose est assuree par une minimisation non lineaire. Pour la detection, qui permet d'initialiser le suivi, le calcul de la pose est basee sur une segmentation premier plan/second plan et sur une procedure efficace de matching d'une serie d'images intiales avec des vues synthetiques. Nos methodes ont ete evaluees sur des images synthetiques et reelles.
Impulsive noise cancellation system based on fuzzy logic for a PLC receiver

Powerline communication systems are nowadays suffering from a very hostile environment, and impulsive chaotic noise is one of the major concerns, and in general every noise with an amplitude higher than the received signal. In this paper, we offer an efficient general system architecture to cancel a great variety of powerline noises. Using a fuzzy inference network, the noise is modeled during a training period, and evaluated during the reception of data. Through periodic training, the systems adapts to the changes of the noise characteristics. We have evaluated the computational cost of the algorithm and compared its time cost for several different implementations, obtaining satisfactory results.
A nationwide survey on quality of life and associated factors of adults with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders

The psychosocial outcomes of individuals with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (HFASD) appear to be diverse and are often poor relative to their intellectual or language level. To identify predictive variables that are potentially ameliorable by therapeutic intervention, this study investigated self-reported psychosocial quality of life and associated factors for adults with HFASD. All participants (n = 154) had a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, were over 18 years of age, lived in the community, and had used one or more support services during the survey period. The results demonstrated that psychosocial quality of life was lower than that of the general Japanese adult population. Environmental factors, such as mother’s support and early diagnosis, were associated with better quality of life, and aggressive behaviors were associated with poorer quality of life, while expressive language level at preschool years, a conventional outcome predictor, did not predict quality of life. These results emphasize that quality of life measures should be included as outcome indicators in treating individuals with HFASD.
Lessons Learnt From Linking Global Recommendations With Localized Marine Restoration Schemes and Policy Options by Using Mixed Methods

In order to advance ongoing efforts in the (still emerging) field of marine restoration, different forms of knowledge must be combined: not only the biological and technical aspects, but also the social and cultural dimensions of marine restoration efforts. This calls for a newly combined array of methods that allows for a bridging of these different knowledge dimensions. Drawing on our experiences from the ongoing knowledge transfer processes of the INTERNAS project (Scientific Transfer of the results of INTERNational Assessments in the field of Earth and Environmental Research into the German policy context), we provide an overview of methods that were used to link global recommendations with localized marine restoration schemes and policy options. Using a mixed methods approach, we were able to capture and understand the pathways of knowledge transfer from globally synthesized scientific knowledge to local realities related to protecting and enhancing marine biodiversity in Germany. With this structured knowledge transfer approach, actionable solutions for marine conservation and restoration activities could be tailored to the specific national and regional circumstances. Using participatory methods, framework conditions like ecological, social, legal, and sectoral value judgment dimensions can be identified. This allows for the development of concerted solutions and creates a common ground for good governance towards marine restoration. When scientists engage not only as experts but also as reflexive facilitators in such participatory processes, it is ensured that more inclusive forms of knowledge are fostered that are necessary to better anticipate the potentials and likely pitfalls that marine restoration efforts may encounter. We conclude that existing knowledge on ecosystems, their goods and services as well as societal expectations need to be understood from the onset in any kind of marine restoration effort.
The Psychology of Intertemporal Tradeoffs

It is commonly assumed that people make intertemporal choices by "discounting" the value of delayed outcomes, assigning discounted values independently to all options, and comparing the discounted values. We identify a class of anomalies to this assumption of alternative-based discounting, which collectively shows that options are not treated independently but rather comparatively: The time difference, or interval, between the options sometimes counts more and sometimes counts less if it is taken as a whole than if it is divided into shorter subintervals (superadditivity and subadditivity, respectively), and whether the interval counts more or less depends on the money difference, or compensation, involved (inseparability). We develop a model that replaces alternative-based discounting with attribute-based tradeoffs. In our model, people make intertemporal choices by weighing how much more they will receive or pay if they wait longer against how much longer the wait will be, or, conversely, how much less they will receive or pay if they do not wait longer against how much shorter the wait will be. This model, called the tradeoff model, accommodates, in a psychologically plausible way, all anomalies that the discounting approach can and cannot address.
Constructing a bimodal switched Lyapunov function for non-uniformly sampled-data feedback systems

Stability analysis of non-uniformly sampled-data feedback control systems is considered. An algorithm is pro posed based on the property that the exponential stability is implied by the existence of a switched Lyapunov function for the associate discrete-time systems. In order to reduce the computational complexity, the algorithm is proposed taking account of the dimensions of LMIs to be solved. It is shown that the proposed algorithm constructs a bimodal switched Lyapunov function in a finite step if one exists.
Frameworks para o Planejamento da Gamificação em Contextos Educacionais - Uma revisão da literatura nacional

A gamificação tem sido bastante utilizada para aumentar o engajamento e amotivação dos estudantes em contextos educacionais, ampliando o interesse por parte de professores e instrutores. No entanto, há um consenso na literatura quanto a necessidade de abordagens sistemáticas (métodos, processos e/ou frameworks) para apoiar o planejamento da gamificação, de modo que os seus efeitos benéficos sejam alcançados. A literatura identifica alguns estudos internacionais focados em analisar estas abordagens sistemáticas, no entanto, há uma carência de estudos que relatem como o Brasil tem contribuído para o processo de planejamento da gamificação. Diante disso, esse artigo tem por objetivo apresentar um mapeamento sistemático da literatura, visando identificar as abordagens sistemáticas existentes para o planejamento da gamificação em escala nacional. A partir da condução desse mapeamento, foram encontrados 18 estudos onde foram identificados: (a) uma carência no apoio automatizado para o docente; (b) uma classificação dos tipos de personalização utilizados; e (c) a quantidade de elementos de gamificação utilizados. Por meio dos resultados obtidos, foi possível identificar ainda diversos desafios e oportunidades relacionados a esta área de pesquisa.
EPIDEMIOLOGY OF MDR-TB IN A BELGIAN INFECTIOUS DISEASES UNIT: A 15 YEARS REVIEW

Abstract Introduction: For the last 20 years the world has seen the emergence of a growing epidemic of MDR-TB, followed by the appearance of XDR-TB. Both require longer, more expensive and more toxic treatments. MDR-TB and especially XDR-TB are associated with a lower cure rate than non MDR-TB. Materials and Methods: We reviewed retrospectively all cases of MDR-and XDR-TB managed at St Pierre University Hospital between 1996 and 2010. Epidemiological, clinical, bacteriological, treatment, follow up and outcome were collected and analysed. Results: We recorded 73 instances of MDR-TB and 11 XDR-TB for a total of 78 patients. All but 4 patients were of non Belgian origin. 10 patients were co-infected with HIV. A median of 4 active drugs (1-5) were used for a median of 448 days (329-616). 41 MDR-TB (56%) and 1 XDR-TB (1%) were considered as cured and 20 are still on treatment. Since 2007, increasing resistance to second line injectable drugs, fluoroquinolones and even linezolid (1 case) is observed. Extensive resistance was mainly found in patients who had previously been mismanaged with second line agents. Conclusions: This study illustrates the growing epidemic of MDR and XDR-TB, it emphasizes the importance of proper diagnosis and adequate management of TB in patients at risk for resistance and stresses the need for new therapies.
Bovine Milk Extracellular Vesicles Are Osteoprotective by Increasing Osteocyte Numbers and Targeting RANKL/OPG System in Experimental Models of Bone Loss

Studying effects of milk components on bone may have a clinical impact as milk is highly associated with bone maintenance, and clinical studies provided controversial associations with dairy consumption. We aimed to evaluate the impact of milk extracellular vesicles (mEVs) on the dynamics of bone loss in mice. MEVs are nanoparticles containing proteins, mRNA and microRNA, and were supplemented into the drinking water of mice, either receiving diet-induced obesity or ovariectomy (OVX). Mice receiving mEVs were protected from the bone loss caused by diet-induced obesity. In a more severe model of bone loss, OVX, higher osteoclast numbers in the femur were found, which were lowered by mEV treatment. Additionally, the osteoclastogenic potential of bone marrow-derived precursor cells was lowered in mEV-treated mice. The reduced stiffness in the femur of OVX mice was consequently reversed by mEV treatment, accompanied by improvement in the bone microarchitecture. In general, the RANKL/OPG ratio increased systemically and locally in both models and was rescued by mEV treatment. The number of osteocytes, as primary regulators of the RANKL/OPG system, raised in the femur of the OVX mEVs-treated group compared to OVX non-treated mice. Also, the osteocyte cell line treated with mEVs demonstrated a lowered RANKL/OPG ratio. Thus, mEVs showed systemic and local osteoprotective properties in two mouse models of bone loss reflected in reduced osteoclast presence. Data reveal mEV potential in bone modulation, acting via osteocyte enhancement and RANKL/OPG regulation. We suggest that mEVs could be a therapeutic candidate for the treatment of bone loss.
Does Robot's Human-based Gaze and Head Nodding Behavior Really Win Over Non-human-based Behavior in Human-robot Interaction?

The study presented in this paper is arisen under the aim to find the answer for the question "Does human-based gaze and head nodding behavior really win over non-human-based behavior in human-robot interaction? " and to verify whether uncanny valley also has effect on human's positivity towards robot behavior or not. We developed 2 non-human-based models and 1 human-based model and conducted human-robot interaction experiment. All participants interacted with a robot with 3 behavior models and chose their preferred robot model and robot behavior (gaze and head nodding) in term of human-likeness. The results show that human-based gaze and head nodding behavior does not win human's positivity over the non-human-based behavior. Additionally, we also found that the differences in participants' preferred robot model also lead to the differences in their preferred robot behavior.
Proposal of a probabilistic believes fusion framework. Application to range data fusion

In order to perform occupancy grid building of in-door environmental for autonomous mobile robot, this paper presents a methodology allowing the merging of beliefs associated to hypotheses represented by binary proposition H like "this particular element belongs to this particular set". In this paper, elements processed are vectors representing points which belong to obstacles. Belief notion is introduced in the combined framework of logic and probability theory and the problem is posed as follows: if different sensors give their own belief in an hypotheses H, how is it possible to merge these believes? Two cases necessary to solve formally occupancy grid building are developed: either sensors characterize different points or sensors characterize the same point. Obtained results are applied to ultrasonic range data fusion.
Visceral fat accumulation: the missing link between psychosocial factors and cardiovascular disease?

Abstract. Neuroendocrine responses to psychosocial pressures have been well characterized. The defence reaction is followed by increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system. Essential hypertension might be induced by such mechanisms. The defeat reaction is characterized by increased activity along the corticotropin releasing factor‐adreno‐corticotropin hormone‐cortisol axis, resulting in the inhibition of gonadotropin secretion. Such endocrine disturbances are followed by metabolic aberrations, and probably also by the accumulation of visceral fat. Subjects with abdominal fat accumulation (high waist/hip circumference ratio, WHR) have recently been found to exhibit a number of psychosocial handicaps, together with endocrine aberrations characteristic of the defence and, in particular, the defeat reaction, as well as the associated circulatory and metabolic aberrations. Such abnormalities, including the WHR itself, are established risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. It is postulated that increased WHR is a symptom of chronic hypothalamic arousal as a result of a defeat reaction to psychosocial pressures. This might lead to the development of disease via circulatory and metabolic derangements.
Discriminating the Registers and Styles in the Modern Greek Language-Part 2: Extending the Feature Vector to Optimize Author Discrimination

This article describes a method for discriminating among authors within a given register of Modern Greek. The focus here is to determine to what extent the stylistic differences among authors can be detected with a high degree of accuracy for a set of texts belonging to a well-defined register. To that end, the chosen register is characterized by a well-defined sub-language, from which a corpus of more than 1,000 documents has been created. To discriminate the texts according to author style, a series of experiments have been performed using statistical techniques. Each text has been represented by a vector covering several linguistic aspects, in an effort to determine the most effective style markers. The experimental results indicate that the proposed approach can successfully separate the author styles for a given register. An extensive study of the effectiveness of the different variable categories has been performed. For instance, diglossia information on its own is not sufficient for author discrimination. Instead, a systematic evaluation process indicates that part-of-speech, structural and algorithmically derived lemma-frequency variables are the most important style markers, their use leading to an author discrimination accuracy exceeding 90%.
New Solutions for Peritoneal Dialysis in Adult and Pediatric Patients

The standard PD solutions used today contain physiological electrolyte profiles similar to that of interstitial fluids and are supplemented with glucose as the osmotic agent. Improvements in solution composition during the last 20 years have been largely restricted to minor changes in buffer and electrolyte levels. Newer PD solutions, on the other hand, are designed to manage comorbidities associated with patients on maintenance dialysis, to tailor the ultrafiltration profile based upon dwell time, and to better preserve peritoneal membrane function and host defenses. The evidence to date indicates that, in malnourished PD patients (children and adults), IP amino acids improve protein nutritional status, particularly if low protein intakes are a cause of the malnutrition. The availability of glucose polymers allows the clinician to complement standard glucose-based formulations with one that can provide improved ultrafiltration in both CAPD and APD patients for long dwells, and in patients experiencing ultrafiltration loss owing to a large effective peritoneal surface area. Owing to the reduced calorie and carbohydrate load, glucose polymers may also offer long-term metabolic advantages. Although the control of acid-base balance can be well managed in the vast majority of patients with a 35-40 mmol/L lactate solution, the development and clinical evaluation of bicarbonate-based solutions is underway as a result of concern over the potentially bioincompatible nature of acidic lactate formulations. To date, in vitro, ex vivo, and limited clinical studies show that such formulations, and in particular bicarbonate/lactate combinations are efficacious and well tolerated, and show improved peritoneal cell function versus conventional solutions. In conclusion, ongoing research and development has produced a new generation of PD solutions that, to various degrees, meet different criteria established for an ideal PD solution for chronic adult and pediatric patients on PD. These criteria include good clearance and ultrafiltration, supply of nutrition, iso-osmolality, physiologic pH, bicarbonate buffer, and minimal absorption of the osmotic agent. Several of the new solutions have already demonstrated clinical utility in controlled clinical trials and are commercially available in Europe. Wider clinical use will further add to our understanding of the impact of these formulations on patient outcomes.