Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effect of pulmonary C‐fibre afferent stimulation on cardiac vagal neurones in the nucleus ambiguus in anaesthetized cats

1 It has been demonstrated previously that the vagal bradycardia evoked by activation of pulmonary C‐fibres is not respiratory modulated. Experiments were carried out in α‐chloralose anaesthetized cats to determine if these cardiac vagal preganglionic neurones (CVPNs) in the nucleus ambiguus (NA), which have respiratory modulated activity, can be activated when pulmonary C‐fibre afferents are stimulated by right atrial injections of phenylbiguanide (PBG). 2 Eleven CVPNs with B‐fibre axons in the right cardiac vagal branches were identified and found to be localized within or ventrolateral to the nucleus ambiguus. Ionophoretic application of a high current of dl‐homocysteic acid (DLH) induced a vagally mediated bradycardia and hypotension in six of eight sites from which CVPNs were recorded. 3 The activity of B‐fibre CVPNs, whether spontaneous (n= 4) or induced by ionophoresis of DLH (n= 7) was respiratory modulated, firing perferentially during post‐inspiration and stage 2 expiration. This activity also correlated with the rising phase of the arterial blood pressure wave consistent with these CVPNs receiving an arterial baroreceptor input. 4 Right atrial injections of PBG excited nine of eleven CVPNs tested. In eight of these activated neurones the onset latency of the excitation was within the pulmonary circulation time, consistent with being activated only by pulmonary C‐fibre afferents. In two neurones the PBG‐evoked excitation still occurred when central inspiratory drive was inhibited, as indicated by the disappearance of phrenic nerve activity. 5 In conclusion, B‐fibre respiratory modulated CVPNs can be activated following stimulation of pulmonary C‐fibre afferents.
Saliency Pattern Detection by Ranking Structured Trees

In this paper we propose a new salient object detection method via structured label prediction. By learning appearance features in rectangular regions, our structural region representation encodes the local saliency distribution with a matrix of binary labels. We show that the linear combination of structured labels can well model the saliency distribution in local regions. Representing region saliency with structured labels has two advantages: 1) it connects the label assignment of all enclosed pixels, which produces a smooth saliency prediction; and 2) regularshaped nature of structured labels enables well definition of traditional cues such as regional properties and center surround contrast, and these cues help to build meaningful and informative saliency measures. To measure the consistency between a structured label and the corresponding saliency distribution, we further propose an adaptive label ranking algorithm using proposals that are generated by a CNN model. Finally, we introduce a K-NN enhanced graph representation for saliency propagation, which is more favorable for our task than the widely-used adjacent-graph-based ones. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed method on six popular benchmarks compared with state-of-the-art approaches.
Transfer of contact skills to new environmental conditions

Robots operating in contact with the environment should typically take into account the knowledge of both position/orientation trajectories as well as the accompanying force/torque profiles for successful execution. Pure position control is not appropriate because even small errors in the desired trajectory can cause significant forces at the contact points. In this paper we present a method that computes an appropriate control policy for a given condition of a contact task, with the peg-in-hole (PiH) assembly tasks as example use-cases. Our method is based on statistical generalization of successfully recorded executions at different values of the external condition. The major novelty of the method is that it provides not only generalized position and orientation trajectories, but a complete skill, consisting of desired position/orientation trajectories and the accompanying force/torque profiles. To improve the execution of the skill after generalization, we combine the proposed approach with an adaptation method to refine the newly generated movement. The versatility of the proposed approach was shown by applying it to firstly, two different types of robot arms: a humanoid 7-axis Kuka LWR-4 arm and a 6-axis industrial Universal robot UR5 arm and secondly, two different peg-in-hole problems: insertion of a square peg and insertion of a round peg.
Quantifying the Effects of Trade Liberalisation in Brazil

Brazil remains a fairly closed economy, with small trade flows relative to its share of world income. This paper explores the effects of three possible policy reforms to strengthen Brazil’s integration into global trade: a reduction in import tariffs, less local content requirements and a full zero-rating of exports in indirect taxes. A simulation analysis using the OECD Multi-Region Trade CGE model suggests that current policies are holding back exports, production and investment in Brazil. The model simulations suggest significant scope for trade policy reforms to strengthen industrial development and export competitiveness. Results also show that the expansion of investment and production would be accompanied by significant employment gains. Moreover, employment growth is higher for low-skilled occupations, implying that a major trade and tax policy reform aiming at liberalising trade flows would particularly help those at the lower end of the income distribution.
Determination of sample time for T1 measurement

In spin‐lattice relaxation time measurements, the relaxation time T1 is estimated from measuring the longitudinal magnetization during its return to thermal equilibrium from an initial (nonequilibrium) state. T1 estimation error depends on a number of factors, including the sample spacing, number of sample points, target T1 range, etc. We describe here a sample‐time determination method based on the principles of optimal experimental design. A two‐parameter model and a more general three‐parameter model of the general T1 measurement experiment are used in this study. Both linear and power‐law sample spacing strategies are evaluated. The proposed method formulates the sample‐time determination problem in closed form expressions that allow for easy calculation of optimum sample times, if a prior T1 estimate or a probable T1 distribution over the target range is given. Valuable insights can be gained from evaluation of these expressions concerning the relationship of T1 estimation error and the sample spacing, number of sample points, target T1 range, etc.
Molecular Deciphering of the ABO System as a Basis for Novel Diagnostics and Therapeutics in ABO Incompatible Transplantation

In recent years ABO incompatible kidney transplantation (KTx) has become a more or less clinical routine procedure with graft and patient survival similar to those of ABO compatible transplants. Antigen-specific immunoadsorption (IA) for anti-A and anti-B antibody removal constitutes in many centers an important part of the treatment protocol. ABO antibody titration by hemagglutination is guiding the treatment; both if the recipient can be transplanted as well as in cases of suspected rejections if antibody removal should be performed. Despite the overall success of ABO incompatible KTx, there is still room for improvements and an extension of the technology to include other solid organs. Based on an increased understanding of the structural complexity and tissue distribution of ABH antigens and the fine epitope specificity of the ABO antibody repertoire, improved IA matrices and ABO antibody diagnostics should be developed. Furthermore, understanding the molecular mechanisms behind accommodation of ABO incompatible renal allografts could make it possible to induce long-term allograft acceptance also in human leukocyte antigen (HLA) sensitized recipients and, perhaps, also make clinical xenotransplantation possible.
Visualizing Quantum Dot Labeled ORAI1 Proteins in Intact Cells Via Correlative Light and Electron Microscopy

Abstract ORAI1 proteins are ion channel subunits and the essential pore-forming units of the calcium release-activated calcium channel complex essential for T-cell activation and many other cellular processes. In this study, we used environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) with scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) detection to image plasma membrane expressed ORAI1 proteins in whole Jurkat T cells in the liquid state. Utilizing a stably transfected Jurkat T cell clone expressing human ORAI1 with an extracellular human influenza hemagglutinin (HA) tag we investigated if liquid-phase STEM can be applied to detect recombinant surface expressed protein. Streptavidin coated quantum dots were coupled in a one-to-one stoichiometry to ORAI1 proteins detected by biotinylated anti-HA fragmented antibody fragments. High-resolution electron microscopic images revealed the individual label locations from which protein pair distances were determined. These data were analyzed using the pair correlation function and, in addition, an analysis of cluster size and frequency was performed. ORAI1 was found to be present in hexamers in a small fraction only, and ORAI1 resided mostly in monomers and dimers.
Human embryonic stem cells differentiate into oligodendrocytes in high purity and myelinate after spinal cord transplantation

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) demonstrate remarkable proliferative and developmental capacity. Clinical interest arises from their ability to provide an apparently unlimited cell supply for transplantation, and from the hope that they can be directed to desirable phenotypes in high purity. Here we present for the first time a method for obtaining oligodendrocytes and their progenitors in high yield from hESCs. We expanded hESCs, promoted their differentiation into oligodendroglial progenitors, amplified those progenitors, and then promoted oligodendroglial differentiation using positive selection and mechanical enrichment. Transplantation into the shiverer model of dysmyelination resulted in integration, differentiation into oligodendrocytes, and compact myelin formation, demonstrating that these cells display a functional phenotype. This differentiation protocol provides a means of generating human oligodendroglial lineage cells in high purity, for use in studies of lineage development, screening assays of oligodendroglial‐specific compounds, and treating neurodegenerative diseases and traumatic injuries to the adult CNS. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Localized packet-loss-ratio-based topology control for IEEE 802.11-based Ad hoc networks

Topology control for maximizing network capacity for the practical power-fixed IEEE 802.11-based Ad hoc Networks is deeply investigated in this paper. Several interference-model-based algorithms have been proposed to maximize network capacity through reducing interference during recent years. However, most of those algorithms are based on node location and not practical in IEEE 802.11-based Ad hoc Networks, in which MAC contention and interference are the important factors to limit network capacity. We propose a localized PLR-based (Packet-Loss-Ratio-based) topology control algorithm (LPB) which reflects the MAC contention and interference in IEEE 802.11-based Ad hoc Networks and performs well in location-free scenarios. Simulation demonstrates that our algorithm performs well in comparison with the existing centralized interference-model-based algorithms and better than the well-known location-free algorithm (XTC) in terms of maximizing the network capacity.
Second‐trimester echogenic small bowel: An increased risk for adverse perinatal outcome

2267 singleton fetuses who had one ultrasound examination between 15 and 21 weeks' gestation were prospectively evaluated for echogenic small bowel. Thirty‐two cases of echogenic small bowel were detected—a prevalence of 1·4 per cent. Echogenic fetal small bowel was divided into two grades: grade 1, where the small bowel was more echogenic than the liver; and grade 2, where the small bowel had the echogenicity of bone. In contrast to 19/23 fetuses with grade 1 small bowel echogenicity, only 2/9 fetuses with grade 2 echogenic bowel had a normal pregnancy outcome (Fisher's exact test; P⩽0·01). Complications associated with second‐trimester echogenic small bowel included in utero cytomegalovirus infection, second‐trimester growth restriction, intrauterine fetal demise, and chromosomal abnormalities. Second‐trimester fetal echogenic small bowel is associated with an increased risk of an adverse outcome. The prevalence of perinatal and neonatal complications is significantly greater when small bowel echogenicity approaches that of bone.
Common grounding system

Current European Standards (HD 631 S1-1999 E) have fostered the so-called "common grounding system" (CGS) concept. It consists in the interconnection of the grounding systems of all the MV/LV substations of a MV network together to the HV/MV substation grounding grid, by means of the MV cables' metal sheaths and/or of dedicated ground conductors buried along the MV cable lines. In continental Europe, MV (15-20 kV) public distribution networks are generally operated in radial configuration; neutral grounding varies, with ungrounded neutral in Italy, resistance grounding in Spain and France, resonant grounding in Germany and Northern Europe in general, i.e. all choices except solid grounding. The interconnection of grounding systems involves a significant reduction of the apparent grounding resistance at the MV/LV substations, by creating a metallic ground-fault current path in parallel with the ground which drains away most of the fault current. It must be noted that even with ungrounded neutral, in extensively "cabled" 20 kV networks the single-line-to-ground (SLG) fault current may attain several hundreds A. Due to the mentioned ground resistance reduction, the Standards allow simplified, relaxed design criteria (touch/step voltage) for the individual grounding systems. Although technically justified, the unconditional acceptance of the Standard's provisions requires a thorough investigation of the possible operation/fault conditions of the system. In fact, in case of two simultaneous SLG faults at different locations, double earth fault (DEF), a large ground current has to be drained by the faulted grounding systems. Moreover, end-of-line MV/LV substations in a purely radial system, though normally operating, are liable to be actually disconnected from the global grounding system. The paper shows that the double earth fault may constitute a severe design criterion even in the presence of the CGS. On the other hand, given the strong reliance of the safety Standards on the soundness of the individual ground systems and, even more, of their interconnection, the task of verifying and maintaining the integrity of the whole common grounding system should be regarded as an utility service. Finally, the above remarks are also extended to MV networks with resistance-grounded neutral
Longitudinal Changes in Protein Carbamylation and Mortality Risk after Initiation of Hemodialysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Carbamylation describes a post-translational protein modification associated with adverse outcomes in ESRD, but the risk implications of changes in carbamylation over time are not well understood. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS We investigated the 1-year natural history of protein carbamylation in patients initiating maintenance hemodialysis and determined the prognostic value of longitudinal carbamylation changes in relation to mortality. In a nested patient-control study, we measured serial carbamylated albumin concentrations in select participants from a large incident dialysis cohort followed from 2004 to 2005 (n=10,044); 122 individuals who survived at least 90 days but died within 1 year of initiating hemodialysis (patients) were randomly selected along with 244 individuals who survived for at least 1 year (controls; matched for demographics). Carbamylated albumin concentration was measured using plasma collected at dialysis initiation and every subsequent 90-day period until 1 year or death. RESULTS Baseline carbamylated albumin concentration was similar between controls and patients (mean±SD; 18.9±0.7 and 19.8±1.1 mmol/mol, respectively; P=0.94). From dialysis initiation to day 90, carbamylated albumin concentration markedly fell in all patients, with controls -9.9±0.8 mmol/mol (P<0.001) and patients -10.0±1.2 mmol/mol (P<0.001). Adjusted repeated measures analysis of carbamylated albumin concentration from dialysis initiation to 1 year or death showed that the mean change (95% confidence interval) in carbamylated albumin concentration from baseline to final measure differed significantly between groups (-9.3; 95% confidence interval, -10.8 to -7.7 for controls and -6.3; 95% confidence interval, -7.7 to -2.8 for patients; P<0.01). There were no such between-group differences in blood urea levels, Kt/V, or normalized protein catabolic rate. Mortality prediction assessed using c statistics showed that carbamylated albumin concentration, when modeled continuously as the difference from baseline to final, improved a fully adjusted model from 0.76 to 0.87 (P=0.03). CONCLUSIONS Protein carbamylation decreased with dialysis initiation, and a greater reduction over time was associated with a lower risk for mortality. Carbamylation changes were able to predict individuals' mortality risk beyond traditional variables, including markers of dialysis adequacy and nutrition.
A simulation-optimisation approach for supply chain network design under supply and demand uncertainties

We investigate a three-echelon stochastic supply chain network design problem. The problem requires selecting suppliers, determining warehouses locations and sizing, as well as the material flows. The objective is to minimise the total expected cost. An important feature of the investigated problem is that both the supply and the demand are uncertain. We solve this problem using a simulation-optimisation approach that is based on a novel hedging strategy that aims at capturing the randomness of the uncertain parameters. To determine the optimal hedging parameters, the search process is guided by particle swarm optimisation procedure. We present the results of extensive computational experiments that were conducted on a large set of instances and that provide evidence that the proposed hedging strategy constitutes an effective viable solution approach.
Traduction française de l’échelle Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Pediatric Scale

Résumé Cet article présente le processus de traduction en français du Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS), le seul outil de mesure validé évaluant la sévérité de la maladie chez les enfants atteints de CMT. Le processus de traduction utilisé s’inspire des lignes directrices de la Food and Drug Administration (FDA). La version préliminaire francophone du CMTPedS a été testée auprès de 14 enfants atteints. Les résultats de l’application démontrent que la passation a été bien tolérée par les enfants et s’est avérée conviviale pour les cliniciens. La disponibilité de cet outil en français semble prometteuse pour le suivi des enfants atteints et la réalisation d’essais clinique. Abstract French Translation of the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Pediatric Scale. We describe the translation process we used to translate into French the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS), the only validated measuring tool evaluating the severity of the disease in children with CMT. The translation process is based on the Food and Drug Administration Guidelines. The French preliminary version of the CMTPedS was tested on 14 children with CMT. It was well tolerated by the children and deemed to be user-friendly by the physicians. The availability of this French tool seems promising for the clinical follow-up of children with CMT and for those enrolled in clinical trials.
Sustained attention deficit in bipolar disorder.

BACKGROUND Recovery in bipolar disorder is central to its definition but is rarely complete. Previous work has suggested that neuropsychological impairment persists during the euthymic state but has been confounded partly by mild affective symptoms in remitted patients. AIMS To characterise neuropsychological functioning in the euthymic phase of bipolar disorder with an emphasis on tasks of executive functioning. METHOD Thirty euthymic patients with bipolar disorder were compared with thirty healthy controls on neuropsychological tasks differentially sensitive to damage within prefrontal cortex. RESULTS Bipolar I patients were impaired on tasks of attentional set shifting, verbal memory and sustained attention. Only sustained attention deficit survived controlling for mild affective symptoms. This deficit was related to progression of illness, but was none the less present in a subgroup of patients near illness onset. CONCLUSIONS Sustained attention deficit may represent a neuropsychological vulnerability marker for bipolar disorder, providing a focus for further understanding of the phenotype and analysis of the neuronal networks involved.
The neuroprotective mechanism of erythropoietin-TAT fusion protein against neurodegeneration from ischemic brain injury.

AIMS To compare the neuroprotection of erythropoietin (EPO) and EPO fusion protein containing transduction domain derived from HIV TAT (EPO-TAT) against ischemic brain injury, inclusive of the side effect, and explore the mechanism underlying the role of EPO-TAT in a transient focal cerebral ischemia model in rats. METHODS Transient focal ischemia was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in rats. Rats were treated, respectively, with following regimens: saline, 1000 U/kg EPO, 5000 U/kg EPO, 1000 U/kg EPO-TAT, 1000 U/kg EPOTAT+5 µl of 10 mM LY294002 (or/plus 5 µl of 5 mM PD98059). Neurological deficit scores, infarct volume, and hematologic side effect were assessed at 72 hours after MCAO. Apoptotic cells were determined with TUNEL staining. The expression and localization of phosphorylated AKT (pAKT) and phosphorylated ERK (pERK) were detected with Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence, respectively. RESULTS 1000 U/kg EPO-TAT exhibited a comparable neuroprotection to 5000 U/kg EPO, as evidenced by a comparable attenuation in neurological deficit, infarct volume, and number of apoptotic cells in the rat ischemic cortex after MCAO. The pAKT and pERK levels were significantly elevated solely in neurons of rodents receiving EPO or EPO-TAT treatments, suggesting the concurrent activation of these two pathways. Specific inhibition of either AKT or ERK pathway partially abolished EPO-TAT protection, but exhibited no influence on the activation status of its counterpart, suggesting no cross-modulation between these two protective pathways. CONCLUSION Our study indicates that EPO-TAT at 1000 U/kg displays neuroprotection with no detectable side effects. The mechanism for neuroprotection may be attributable to the simultaneous activation of the AKT and ERK pathways, which preserve neuronal cell viability and attenuate behavioral deficits.