Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Exercise in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) suffer from muscle dysfunction which seems to be partly caused by systemic inflammation. Muscle protein breakdown as well as synthesis might be affected by this systemic inflammation. Additionally, it seems to induce excessive oxidative stress and reduce the level of growth-stimulating factors. As exercise training can have an anti-inflammatory effect in healthy people, the main question in this review is whether exercise (training) can also induce such effects in patients with COPD. However, because of the known inflammatory response after an acute bout of exercise, some researchers are afraid that exercise might actually worsen the inflammation in COPD. Recent evidence suggests, however, that the response might actually be anti-inflammatory and thus beneficial. Unfortunately, the evidence about the response of the inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 to exercise in patients with COPD is inconsistent, making it impossible to conclude whether a single exercise bout is harmful or beneficial in patients with COPD. Long-term exercise training in healthy people as well as in patients with chronic heart failure, another chronic inflammatory disease, seems to have beneficial effects on the inflammatory response. In patients with COPD, however, no training-induced changes in cytokine levels have been found and it must be concluded that physical exercise training does not seem to have an anti-inflammatory effect in COPD. On the other hand, it does not have a proinflammatory effect, and since patients with COPD benefit from exercise training with regard to other health parameters it is still recommended that they exercise regularly.
Data mining for gender differences in tinnitus Conference or Workshop Item

—We perform data mining on the publicly available Tinnitus Archive. A number of statistically significant associations with gender were found using the Chi-squared test. These were age, onset rapidity, tinnitus localisation, number of tinnitus sounds heard, sleep interference due to tinnitus, feeling tired and ill because of tinnitus, index of noise exposure and subjective tinnitus pitch. No other associations with gender were statistically significant. In each case where a factor was found to be associated with gender, we analysed the data further by examining the standardised residuals. These showed that more men with tinnitus were younger, and more men had experience of noise exposure. Women were more likely to hear more than three sounds in their tinnitus, hear it in both ears, experience gradual onset of tinnitus, and hear it at lower pitches. Our findings are confirmed by the use of a measure derived from market basket analysis, that of lift.
Separase: a universal trigger for sister chromatid disjunction but not chromosome cycle progression

Separase is a protease whose liberation from its inhibitory chaperone Securin triggers sister chromatid disjunction at anaphase onset in yeast by cleaving cohesin's kleisin subunit. We have created conditional knockout alleles of the mouse Separase and Securin genes. Deletion of both copies of Separase but not Securin causes embryonic lethality. Loss of Securin reduces Separase activity because deletion of just one copy of the Separase gene is lethal to embryos lacking Securin. In embryonic fibroblasts, Separase depletion blocks sister chromatid separation but does not prevent other aspects of mitosis, cytokinesis, or chromosome replication. Thus, fibroblasts lacking Separase become highly polyploid. Hepatocytes stimulated to proliferate in vivo by hepatectomy also become unusually large and polyploid in the absence of Separase but are able to regenerate functional livers. Separase depletion in bone marrow causes aplasia and the presumed death of hematopoietic cells other than erythrocytes. Destruction of sister chromatid cohesion by Separase may be a universal feature of mitosis in eukaryotic cells.
Feasibility of an Ambulance-Based Stroke Trial, and Safety of Glyceryl Trinitrate in Ultra-Acute Stroke: The Rapid Intervention With Glyceryl Trinitrate in Hypertensive Stroke Trial (RIGHT, ISRCTN66434824)

Background and Purpose— The practicalities of doing ambulance-based trials where paramedics perform all aspects of a clinical trial involving patients with ultra-acute stroke have not been assessed. Methods— We performed a randomized controlled trial with screening, consent, randomization, and treatment performed by paramedics prior to hospitalization. Patients with probable ultra-acute stroke (<4 hours) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) >140 mm Hg were randomized to transdermal glyceryl trinitrate (GTN; 5 mg/24 hours) or none (blinding under gauze dressing) for 7 days with the first dose given by paramedics. The primary outcome was SBP at 2 hours. Results— Of a planned 80 patients, 41 (25 GTN, 16 no GTN) were enrolled >22 months with median age [interquartile range] 79 [16] years; men 22 (54%); SBP 168 [46]; final diagnosis: stroke 33 (80%) and transient ischemic attack 3 (7%). Time to randomization was 55 [75] minutes. After treatment with GTN versus no GTN, SBP at 2 hours was 153 [31] versus 174 [27] mm Hg, respectively, with difference −18 [30] mm Hg (P=0.030). GTN improved functional outcome with a shift in the modified Rankin Scale by 1 [3] point (P=0.040). The rates of death, 4 (16%) versus 6 (38%; P=0.15), and serious adverse events, 14 (56%) versus 10 (63%; P=0.75), did not differ between GTN and no GTN. Conclusions— Paramedics can successfully enroll patients with ultra-acute stroke into an ambulance-based trial. GTN reduces SBP at 2 hours and seems to be safe in ultra-acute stroke. A larger trial is needed to assess whether GTN improves functional outcome. Clinical Trial Registration— URL: http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN66434824/66434824. Unique identifier: 66434824.
Safety of recombinant factor VIIa in patients under extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.

OBJECTIVES To address the safety (rate of thromboembolic events and circuit complications) and efficacy (rate of bleeding control) of recombinant activated coagulation factor VII (rFVIIa) to treat severe bleeding refractory to all surgical and medical treatments in patients under veno-arterial (VA) or veno-venous (VV) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support. METHODS In a tertiary referral University Cardiothoracic Surgery Centre including three intensive care units, 30 patients received the rFVIIa during ongoing VA or VV ECMO support (8.6% of ECMO activity from 2005 to 2014; N = 347). Early and late clinical results were analysed (retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data). In a substudy, a case-matching procedure was performed among ECMO patients who received (Group A) or did not receive (Group B) rFVIIa treatment. RESULTS The mediastinum was the most common site of refractory bleeding (after heart transplantation or other cardiac surgery; 90%); 90% (n = 27) of patients were on VA ECMO and the remainder on VV ECMO. The survival rate at ECMO explantation and at the 30th post-implantation day was 67 and 50%, respectively. The final efficacy rate of rFVIIa in stopping bleeding was 93.3%. The rate of thromboembolic events was 3.3% (1 case) and the rate of circuit change was 16.7% (without instances of overt circuit clotting). After case-matching, Group A comprised 23 patients and Group B included 43 patients. No statistically significant differences were observed among groups in terms of thromboembolic events (P = 0.99), circuit change, ventilation time (P = 0.71), infectious complications (P = 06) and survival at both ECMO explantation and the 30th post-implantation day. Late survival was comparable (Kaplan-Meier analysis; P = 0.42). CONCLUSIONS In case of life-threatening bleeding refractory to all conventional therapies, rFVIIa presents an acceptable safety profile in patients under ECMO support. No circuit dysfunctions and limited rates of thromboembolism are observed.
The nature and effects of cortical microvascular pathology in aging and Alzheimer's disease

Abstract Age-related and amyloid-induced pathology of the cerebral microvasculature have been implicated as potential contributing factors to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The microvasculature plays a crucial role in maintaining brain homeostasis and deterioration of its integrity may have deleterious effects on brain function in AD, possibly leading to neurofibrillary degeneration, plaque formation, and cell loss. Brain vessels possess peculiar anatomical and physiological properties owing to their role in the exchange processes of various substances between blood and brain, which are highly regulated for the maintenance of ionic homeostasis of the neuronal environment. Here we review neuropathological aspects of cortical microvessels in aging and AD in relationship to known cardiovascular risk factors and their possible impact on the cognitive decline seen in late-onset dementia.
A Verification by Abstraction Framework for organizational Multi-Agent Systems

Software agents and multi-agent systems (MAS from now on) are recognized as both abstractions and eective technologies for modelling and building complex distributed applications. However, they are still dicult to engineer. The reason is that when massive number of autonomous components interact it is very dicult to predict that the emergent organizational structure fits the system goals or that the desired functionalities will be fulfilled. Verification approaches try to evaluate whether or not a product, service, or system complies with a specification. However verification approaches are limited by the state-space of the system under study. This paper proposes an approach based upon an organizational framework and specifically the capacity concept which enables to abstract a role know-how and to reduce the state space of the system under study. A formal framework based on multi-formalisms language and the specification approach are presented and illustrated through the specification of a part of the contract net protocol.
Mathematics of Cell Motility: Have We Got Its Number?

Mathematical and computational modeling is rapidly becoming an essential research technique complementing traditional experimental biological methods. However, lack of standard modeling methods, difficulties of translating biological phenomena into mathematical language, and differences in biological and mathematical mentalities continue to hinder the scientific progress. Here we focus on one area— cell motility—characterized by an unusually high modeling activity, largely due to a vast amount of quantitative, biophysical data, 'modular' character of motility, and pioneering vision of the area's experimental leaders. In this review, after brief introduction to biology of cell movements, we discuss quantitative models of actin dynamics, protrusion, adhesion, contraction, and cell shape and movement that made an impact on the process of biological discovery. We also comment on modeling approaches and open questions.
New Genetic Approach in Early Detection of Cancer

Cancer is a major health problem all over the world, the main obstacle facing cancer prevention is a lack of precise approach for early detection and prevention strategies of the disease. All previous works on cancer dealt with only infected patients. New technique under accurate statistical experimental design must be developed in order to early diagnose of the disease. This will be done through molecular characterization of genomic DNA of thousands of cancer infected as well as healthy people living in high and low risk environmental conditions. Genetic variations (differences) for resistant/tolerant versus susceptible individuals to cancer incidence exist within communities and various regions. The result of such molecular genetic variations will play role in answering the questions of why do the majority of people living in high environmental risk area never get cancer? And why do some people living in low environmental risk area get cancer? Previous studies reported that the current theory dealing with cancer cause is that long periods of exposure to environmental risk factors (carcinogenic, pollutants, smoke, chemical and others) have had a major effect in modifying the constitution of the genome (gene) through mitosis mutation. Contrary to that, the current article hypothesizes that cancer occur as a result of presence of sensitive gene(s) that inherited by infected individuals coupled and interacted with environmental causes. So it is a vital issue to investigate the relation between resistant versus susceptible individuals to cancer incidence and their molecular characterizations (genetic make-up) to identify the molecular genetic differences (genes or alleles, that are associated with resistance or susceptibility to cancer), as molecular genetic markers to be used as early detection of individuals susceptible to cancer.
Biophilic planning new approach in sustainability (Proposing conceptual model of livable city)

Urban environment is deteriorating even more rapidly unless people adopt eco-friendly policies. Livable city has long been a concept but it has not yet been universally applied in practice. One of the problems of our cities is away from nature. Biophilia is a term that stems from Greek roots meaning ‘love of life’. The concept of Biophilic planning can be associated some of the design strategies included in this pattern are potted plants, flowerbeds, courtyard gardens, green walls and green roofs. Biophilic planning is new approach focuses on healthy community and healthy individual outcomes. It seems Biophilic design and planning led to achieving livable cities. The purpose of research is to explore components livability and Biophilic planning. The relationship between dependent and independent variables was also analyzed. So, the research method is “descriptive-analytical”. On the other hand, qualitative research methods have been used. So, the Livability and Biophilic components have been concluded based on professional theories and interview. At finally, concept model of livability based on Biophilic planning has been proposed.
Exploring ways in which social networkers contribute to online groups: A case study of one Facebook group's discussion of Australian broadcaster Channel 9 during the 2010 Winter Olympic Games

The advent of the Internet has allowed consumers more opportunities to communicate than ever before. The emergence of the Internet has decreased the gate–keeping role of the media in that Internet users can interact with media outlets and other users in real time. This study breaks ground in the analysis of media messages as one Facebook group is studied to uncover how Internet users virtually protested media outlets on social networking Web sites.
Recombinant Protein Synthesis in Chinese Hamster Ovary Cells Using a Vaccinia Virus/Bacteriophage T7 Hybrid Expression System*

The vaccinia virus/bacteriophage T7 expression system was adapted to Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Vaccinia virus undergoes abortive infection in CHO cells, which is characterized by a sharp reduction in protein synthesis at the stage of viral intermediate gene expression. We determined that expression of a T7 promoter-regulated chloramphenicol acetyltransferase gene was at least 20 times more efficient in permissive BS-C-1 than in CHO cells. The encephalomyocarditis virus 5′-untranslated region, which confers cap-independent translatability to mRNA, stimulated recombinant protein synthesis by 10-fold in both cell lines, maintaining the advantage of the BS-C-1 cells over CHO cells. Since the cowpox virus hr gene overcomes vaccinia virus host range restriction in CHO cells, we constructed a recombinant virus that carries an intact hr gene in addition to the T7 RNA polymerase gene. With this virus, synthesis of T7 RNA polymerase was enhanced and production of a recombinant protein occurred in CHO cells at the level observed in permissive cell lines. Extension of the vaccinia virus/bacteriophage T7 expression system to CHO cells should be of wide interest, as these cells have advantages for preparation of recombinant proteins in research and biotechnology.
Yale Ficsit: Risk Factor Abatement Strategy for Fall Prevention

Based on finding a strong association between number of impairments and risk of falling in earlier studies, Yale FICSIT investigators are conducting an intervention trial comparing the effectiveness of usual care plus social visits (SV) and a targeted risk abatement intervention (TI) strategy in reducing falls among at risk community elderly persons. Subjects include members of a participating HMO who are ≥70 years of age, cognitively intact, not terminally ill, not too physically active, and possess at least one fall risk factor. The targeted risk factors include postural hypotension; sedative use; at least four targeted medications; upper and lower extremity strength and range of motion impairments; foot problems; and balance, gait, and transfer dysfunctions. The interventions include medication adjustments, behavioral change recommendations, education and training, and home‐based exercise regimens targeting the identified risk factors. The interventions are carried out by the study nurse practitioner and physical therapist in TI subjects' homes. The SV subjects receive a comparable number of home visits as the TI subjects during which a structured life review is performed by social work students. The primary outcome is occurrence of falls during the 12‐month followup. Secondary outcomes include change in mobility performance and fall‐related efficacy.
Using a therapeutic companion robot for dementia symptoms in long-term care: reflections from a cluster-RCT

ABSTRACT Objectives: We undertook a cluster-randomised controlled trial exploring the effect of a therapeutic companion robot (PARO) compared to a look-alike plush toy and usual care on dementia symptoms of long-term care residents. Complementing the reported quantitative outcomes , this paper provides critical reflection and commentary on individual participant responses to PARO, observed through video recordings , with a view to informing clinical practice and research. Method: A descriptive, qualitative design with five participants selected from the PARO intervention arm of the trial. The trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12614000508673). Results: The five participants and their responses to PARO are presented in terms of three issues: i. ) Different pre-intervention clinical presentations and different responses; ii. ) Same individual, different response – the need for continual assessment and review; and iii. ) The ethics of giving and retrieving PARO. Implications for clinical practice and future research are discussed in relation to each issue. Conclusion: The findings suggest that one approach does not fit all, and that there is considerable variation in responses to PARO. A number of recommendations are discussed to aid the delivery of psychosocial interventions with PARO in practice, as well as to guide future research.
Hierarchical clustering identifies hub nodes in a model of resting-state brain activity

A novel clustering algorithm is presented for analyzing the temporal dynamics of synchronization in networks of coupled oscillators and applied to a model of resting-state brain activity. Connectivity in the model is based on a human-brain structural connectivity matrix derived from diffusion tensor imaging tractography. We find a strong correspondence between areas of high synchronization and highly connected “hub” nodes, anatomical regions forming the structural core of the network linking all areas of the brain. Such models have the potential to increase our understanding of the constraints placed on brain function by underlying anatomical structure.
Measuring accelerometer dynamic range from seismic data using Allan deviation

We propose a new approach for calculating the dynamic range of an accelerometer based on an Allan deviation analysis of production seismic data. This test is intended as a field audit technique and does not require an unconditioned dataset from a low‐noise environment. We first show that Allan deviation can measure white noise levels using two commercial accelerometers. The analysis accurately captures the manufacturing noise density specifications and known relationships between white noise, preamplifier gain, and group forming. We then show that a production seismic dataset is suitable for an Allan deviation analysis because the results are not critically affected by a recording filter. Finally, we illustrate the proposed technique by calculating the dynamic range of an accelerometer channel in a seismic streamer using a production dataset.
Pup Mortality in a Rapidly Declining Harbour Seal (Phoca vitulina) Population

The harbour seal population in Orkney, off the north coast of Scotland, has reduced by 65% between 2001 and 2010. The cause(s) of this decline are unknown but must affect the demographic parameters of the population. Here, satellite telemetry data were used to test the hypothesis that increased pup mortality could be a primary driver of the decline in Orkney. Pup mortality and tag failure parameters were estimated from the duration of operation of satellite tags deployed on harbour seal pups from the Orkney population (n = 24) and from another population on the west coast of Scotland (n = 24) where abundance was stable. Survival probabilities from both populations were best represented by a common gamma distribution and were not different from one another, suggesting that increased pup mortality is unlikely to be the primary agent in the Orkney population decline. The estimated probability of surviving to 6 months was 0.390 (95% CI 0.297 – 0.648) and tag failure was represented by a Gaussian distribution, with estimated mean 270 (95% CI = 198 – 288) and s.d. 21 (95% CI = 1 – 66) days. These results suggest that adult survival is the most likely proximate cause of the decline. They also demonstrate a novel technique for attaining age-specific mortality rates from telemetry data.
Randomized Clinical Investigation of Titanium Implants with and without Platform Switching: Six Months’ Radiographic and Clinical Outcome

The aim of this study was to obtain a randomized, clinical and radiological comparison of implants with and without platform switching (PFS). The two compared titanium implant types differed only in the microgap position: test (PFS) or control (StE, no PFS). All implants were inserted in posterior regions and followed up for six months after abutment connection (AC). Twenty one patients with 21 PFS and 18 StE implants completed the six-month evaluation. No implant failed. One complication (exposed cap screw) was reported at AC. No statistically significant difference was observed between the marginal bone level of PFS and StE implants. Their bone level stabilized approximately 1 mm below the microgap. Based on the outcome of this short-term study with a limited number of patients, it seems unlikely that the optimal clinical and radiological outcome obtained with the tested standard implant (no PFS) can be improved by introducing an inward microgap shift (PFS).
A semi-automatic TAG syntactic tagging tool for constructing an Arabic Treebank

Corpora present a basic informational source for varied NLP applications. Their construction becomes now days necessary. This paper presents a tool created to help syntactic tagging an Arabic Treebank. It is based on an already constructed grammar called ArabTAG which constitutes a representational method of Arabic grammatical rules using TAG formalism. This tagging tool is a node among a set of other pre-treatment steps as: morpho-syntactic analysis, grammatical tagging and sentence segmentation. It gets as input a sentence and helps to give it the appropriate syntactic tree in an incremental manner.