Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Functional Variant at a Prostate Cancer Predisposition Locus at 8q24 Is Associated with PVT1 Expression

Genetic mapping studies have identified multiple cancer susceptibility regions at chromosome 8q24, upstream of the MYC oncogene. MYC has been widely presumed as the regulated target gene, but definitive evidence functionally linking these cancer regions with MYC has been difficult to obtain. Here we examined candidate functional variants of a haplotype block at 8q24 encompassing the two independent risk alleles for prostate and breast cancer, rs620861 and rs13281615. We used the mapping of DNase I hypersensitive sites as a tool to prioritise regions for further functional analysis. This approach identified rs378854, which is in complete linkage disequilibrium (LD) with rs620861, as a novel functional prostate cancer-specific genetic variant. We demonstrate that the risk allele (G) of rs378854 reduces binding of the transcription factor YY1 in vitro. This factor is known to repress global transcription in prostate cancer and is a candidate tumour suppressor. Additional experiments showed that the YY1 binding site is occupied in vivo in prostate cancer, but not breast cancer cells, consistent with the observed cancer-specific effects of this single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). Using chromatin conformation capture (3C) experiments, we found that the region surrounding rs378854 interacts with the MYC and PVT1 promoters. Moreover, expression of the PVT1 oncogene in normal prostate tissue increased with the presence of the risk allele of rs378854, while expression of MYC was not affected. In conclusion, we identified a new functional prostate cancer risk variant at the 8q24 locus, rs378854 allele G, that reduces binding of the YY1 protein and is associated with increased expression of PVT1 located 0.5 Mb downstream.
Aging Is Accompanied by a Blunted Muscle Protein Synthetic Response to Protein Ingestion

Purpose Progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass with aging (sarcopenia) forms a global health concern. It has been suggested that an impaired capacity to increase muscle protein synthesis rates in response to protein intake is a key contributor to sarcopenia. We assessed whether differences in post-absorptive and/or post-prandial muscle protein synthesis rates exist between large cohorts of healthy young and older men. Procedures We performed a cross-sectional, retrospective study comparing in vivo post-absorptive muscle protein synthesis rates determined with stable isotope methodologies between 34 healthy young (22±1 y) and 72 older (75±1 y) men, and post-prandial muscle protein synthesis rates between 35 healthy young (22±1 y) and 40 older (74±1 y) men. Findings Post-absorptive muscle protein synthesis rates did not differ significantly between the young and older group. Post-prandial muscle protein synthesis rates were 16% lower in the older subjects when compared with the young. Muscle protein synthesis rates were >3 fold more responsive to dietary protein ingestion in the young. Irrespective of age, there was a strong negative correlation between post-absorptive muscle protein synthesis rates and the increase in muscle protein synthesis rate following protein ingestion. Conclusions Aging is associated with the development of muscle anabolic inflexibility which represents a key physiological mechanism underpinning sarcopenia.
A Multigrid Fluid Pressure Solver Handling Separating Solid Boundary Conditions

We present a multigrid method for solving the linear complementarity problem (LCP) resulting from discretizing the Poisson equation subject to separating solid boundary conditions in an Eulerian liquid simulation's pressure projection step. The method requires only a few small changes to a multigrid solver for linear systems. Our generalized solver is fast enough to handle 3D liquid simulations with separating boundary conditions in practical domain sizes. Previous methods could only handle relatively small 2D domains in reasonable time, because they used expensive quadratic programming (QP) solvers. We demonstrate our technique in several practical scenarios, including nonaxis-aligned containers and moving solids in which the omission of separating boundary conditions results in disturbing artifacts of liquid sticking to solids. Our measurements show, that the convergence rate of our LCP solver is close to that of a standard multigrid solver.
The Host RNAs in Retroviral Particles

As they assemble, retroviruses encapsidate both their genomic RNAs and several types of host RNA. Whereas limited amounts of messenger RNA (mRNA) are detectable within virion populations, the predominant classes of encapsidated host RNAs do not encode proteins, but instead include endogenous retroelements and several classes of non-coding RNA (ncRNA), some of which are packaged in significant molar excess to the viral genome. Surprisingly, although the most abundant host RNAs in retroviruses are also abundant in cells, unusual forms of these RNAs are packaged preferentially, suggesting that these RNAs are recruited early in their biogenesis: before associating with their cognate protein partners, and/or from transient or rare RNA populations. These RNAs’ packaging determinants differ from the viral genome’s, and several of the abundantly packaged host ncRNAs serve cells as the scaffolds of ribonucleoprotein particles. Because virion assembly is equally efficient whether or not genomic RNA is available, yet RNA appears critical to the structural integrity of retroviral particles, it seems possible that the selectively encapsidated host ncRNAs might play roles in assembly. Indeed, some host ncRNAs appear to act during replication, as some transfer RNA (tRNA) species may contribute to nuclear import of human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) reverse transcription complexes, and other tRNA interactions with the viral Gag protein aid correct trafficking to plasma membrane assembly sites. However, despite high conservation of packaging for certain host RNAs, replication roles for most of these selectively encapsidated RNAs—if any—have remained elusive.
Boxes and remembering in the time of AIDS.

This article presents an account of the experience of Jonathan Morgan a writer and therapist in establishing the Memory Box Project in South Africa. Motivated by the resolve to educate himself about the issues of HIV/AIDS Morgan invited a group of positive women at AIDS Counselling Care and Training (ACCT) organization in Soweto to begin such a project. Just before the July 2000 Durban AIDS conference the first series of memory box workshops were completed. Some of the boxes were exhibited at the conference and others are still on display at the Urban Futures Healing exhibit. Usually made out of recycled cardboard boxes memory boxes and memory books provide an opportunity for an indiviudual to tell her/his preferred story. This can be a story of hope and activism or a story about pain and loss. Workshops help participants develop descriptions and richly textured accounts of their preferred histories as well as in writing a will or to consider the dispersal of non-material value such as work in progress values ways of being and others.
Reconstructive Trends in Post-Ablation Patients with Esophagus and Hypopharynx Defect

The main challenge in pharyngoesophageal reconstruction is the restoration of swallow and speech functions. The aim of this paper is to review the reconstructive options and associated complications for patients with head and neck cancer. A literature review was performed for pharynoesophagus reconstruction after ablative surgery of head and neck cancer for studies published between January 1980 to July 2015 and listed in the PubMed database. Search queries were made using a combination of 'esophagus' and 'free flap', 'microsurgical', or 'free tissue transfer'. The search query resulted in 123 studies, of which 33 studies were full text publications that met inclusion criteria. Further review into the reference of these 33 studies resulted in 15 additional studies to be included. The pharyngoesophagus reconstruction should be individualized for each patient and clinical context. Fasciocutaneous free flap and pedicled flap are effective for partial phayngoesophageal defect. Fasciocutaneous free flap and jejunal free flap are effective for circumferential defect. Pedicled flaps remain a safe option in the context of high surgical risk patients, presence of fistula. Among free flaps, anterolateral thigh free flap and jejunal free flap were associated with superior outcomes, when compared with radial forearm free flap. Speech function is reported to be better for the fasciocutaneous free flap than for the jejunal free flap.
Observation of coherent zone-folded acoustic phonons generated by Raman scattering in a superlattice

We have used pulse time-of-flight techniques to examine the phonon emission from an optically excited GaAs/AlAs superlattice structure. For laser excitation wavelengths shorter than 767 nm (the energy of E1HH1 transition), we detect a significant longitudinal acoustic phonon component directed in a narrow beam normal to the structure. Under identical excitation conditions, generation of coherent longitudinal acoustic phonons has previously been observed in this structure. We suggest that the excitation wavelength and angular characteristics of the longitudinal acoustic emission is consistent with those of propagating modes produced as coherent phonons “leak” from the superlattice structure.
Emerging roles of topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents in ophthalmology

EDnroR,-I have read with great interest the review of Mr Koay, entitled 'The emerging roles of topical non-steroidal antiinflammatory agents in ophthalmology'. ' This article is well designed and documented but your large audience in the UK and continental Europe deserves fuller information on NSAIDS. Apart from a mistake in the introduction (diclofenac 1% (Voltarol) is in fact 0.1%), any article on indomethacin requires for your readers' complete information to mention a solution of indomethacin 0.1% (Laboratoire Chauvin) developed for ophthalmic use. It is a lyophilised product now registered in the major part of Europe, Canada, and some countries of Asia and Africa. This drug has been evaluated in controlled clinical studies versus placebo, flurbiprofen, diclofenac, and indomethacin 1% suspension. '2 Both formulations of indomethacin are useful and effective. The 0.1% solution seems better tolerated. I hope these remarks will be helpful.
Evaluation of the Potential for Pharmacodynamic and Pharmacokinetic Drug Interactions Between Selegiline Transdermal System and Two Sympathomimetic Agents (Pseudoephedrine and Phenylpropanolamine) in Healthy Volunteers

Selegiline transdermal system is a recently approved monoamine oxidase inhibitor antidepressant. Medications that inhibit monoamine oxidase type A can augment the pressor effects of sympathomimetic amines, increasing the potential for hypertensive crisis. This study examined the potential for drug‐drug interactions during treatment with selegiline transdermal system and pseudoephedrine or phenylpropanolamine. Two studies were conducted with 25 healthy volunteers to assess changes in blood pressure and heart rate during administration of pseudoephedrine or phenylpropanolamine alone or together with selegiline transdermal system. No significant differences in mean maximum changes in vital signs occurred with pseudoephedrine. No significant differences were found in mean maximum changes in systolic heart rate with phenylpropanolamine; however, 4 of 12 subjects each experienced 1 isolated protocol‐defined minimal pressor response without concurrent adverse effects (1 with phenylpropanolamine alone; 3 with phenylpropanolamine + selegiline transdermal system). Pharmacokinetic parameters obtained following selegiline transdermal system and pseudoephedrine or phenylpropanolamine were unremarkable. The results suggest that selegiline transdermal system 6 mg/24 h does not significantly alter the pharmacodynamics or pharmacokinetics of either pseudoephedrine or phenylpropanolamine when administered to healthy volunteers; however, it is prudent to avoid coadministration of selegiline transdermal system and sympathomimetics.
Identification and meta‐analysis of a small gene expression signature for the diagnosis of estrogen receptor status in invasive ductal breast cancer

In breast cancer, the determination of estrogen receptor (ER) expression is crucial for the decision on therapeutic strategies. Current ER expression analysis is based on immunohistochemical (IHC) staining of ER on formalin fixed tissue sections. However, low levels of ER expression frequently escape detection because of varying sensitivities of routine histopathological laboratories. Moreover, in estimating ER by IHC the receptor protein only is tested instead of the complex underlying ER pathway, which reflects its biological activity. To overcome this limitation, we have used the microarray technology to study 56 samples of invasive ductal carcinoma. We infer a robust and reliable signature of 10 genes, which is associated with ER expression and presumably therapeutically relevant biological processes. In a meta‐analysis, the signature was tested on 3 further independent microarray gene expression data sets, covering different laboratories, array platforms, and clinics. The classification based on the signature showed a very low misclassification rate. In summary, the expression of few genes is sufficient to determine ER status. Future decisions on antiestrogen based therapy in breast cancer could be based on this signature rather than on immunostaining alone. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inducible nitric oxide and pulmonary infection

Nitric oxide (NO) is an endogenously produced vasodilator which modulates systemic and pulmonary blood flow through the actions of cyclic guanylate monophosphate (cGMP) on vascular smooth muscle.1-4 Non-haemodynamic properties of NO include the modulation of platelet inhibition, neurotransmission, hormone release, and cell growth. Under physiological circumstances the basal production of NO is regulated by constitutive forms of the enzyme NO synthase (cNOS). Under conditions of chemical and mechanical stress increased NO production is detectable, produced primarily via an inducible NOS isoform (iNOS). 5 6 Evidence has accumulated that NO is implicated in the pathogenesis of sepsis and septic shock and may contribute to the development of multiple organ dysfunction. Firstly, iNOS has been isolated from human neutrophils in urinary sepsis7 and from alveolar macrophages in sepsis induced acute lung injury (ALI). 8Secondly, NO is known to influence the inflammatory response through actions on both innate and adaptive immune systems.9Thirdly, non-specific cNOS and iNOS inhibition using novel pharmacological …
Xerostomia Due to Systemic Disease: A Review of 20 Conditions and Mechanisms

Xerostomia is a common complaint of nearly half of the elderly population and about one-fifth of younger adults. It causes several signs and symptoms, and compromise oral functions and health-related quality-of-life. Multiple reasons are proposed to describe the etiology of xerostomia such as local factors, psychogenic factors, and systemic diseases. In order to manage xerostomia effectively, identification of the main causality is mandatory. The aim of this review was to present systemic diseases leading to xerostomia with their mechanisms of action. We used various general search engines and specialized databases such as Google, Google Scholar, Yahoo, PubMed, PubMed Central, MedLine Plus, Medknow, EBSCO, ScienceDirect, Scopus, WebMD, EMBASE, and authorized textbooks to find relevant topics by means of Medical Subject Headings keywords such as "xerostomia," "hyposalivations," "mouth dryness," "disease," and "systemic. " We appraised 97 English-language articles published over the last 40 years in both medical and dental journals including reviews, meta-analysis, original papers, and case reports. Upon compilation of relevant data, it was concluded that autoimmune diseases most frequently involve salivary glands and cause xerostomia followed by diabetes mellitus, renal failure, and graft-versus-host disease. Moreover, the underlying mechanisms of systemic disease-related xerostomia are: autoimmunity, infiltration of immunocompetent cells, granuloma formation, fibrosis and dehydration, deposition of proteinaceous substances, bacterial infection, and side-effects of medications.
How should control and body dynamics be coupled? A robotic case study

Over the past decade, it has been widely recognized that the emergence of intelligence is strongly influenced by not only control systems but also their embodiments, that is the physical properties of robots' bodies. This implies that the control dynamics and its body dynamics cannot be designed "separately" due to their tight interdependency, which is significantly different from the traditional design approach on a "hardware first, software last" basis. Now, some questions arise: how should these two dynamics be coupled? What sort of phenomena will emerge under the so-called "well-balanced" design? In spite of its importance, to our knowledge, still very few studies have explicitly investigated this mutual interaction. In light of these facts, this study is intended to deal with the interaction dynamics between control and mechanical systems, and to analytically and synthetically discuss the "relationship as it should be" between the two dynamics. To this end, a decentralized control for a multi-legged robot is employed as a practical example. The result derived indicates that the convergence of decentralized gait control can be significantly ameliorated by modifying its interaction dynamics between the control and mechanical systems to be implemented.
Osteotomy of the Spine to Correct the Spinal Deformity

There are a number of reports on Smith-Petersen osteotomy (SPO), pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) and vertebral column resection (VCR). However, there are few systematic reviews of all three kinds of osteotomies. Literature review and author's experience of SPO, PSO and VCR osteotomy will be described. Various surgical techniques can be applied according to the disease entity and magnitude of the deformity. The most appropriate methods for deformity correction should be chosen and the potential complications should be considered. Before attempting an osteotomy of the spine for a spinal deformity, sufficient surgical experience and a thorough understanding of the anatomy of the spine and adjacent structures are needed. In addition, a well-organized team with the other departments is essential.
Virtual Reality Applications for Motor Rehabilitation After Stroke

Abstract Hemiparesis is the primary physical impairment underlying functional disability after stroke. A goal of rehabilitation is to enhance motor skill acquisition, which is a direct result of practice. However, frequency and duration of practice are limited in rehabilitation. Virtual reality (VR) is a computer technology that simulates real-life learning while providing augmented feedback and increased frequency, duration, and intensity of practiced tasks. The rate and extent of relearning of motor tasks could affect the duration, effectiveness, and cost of patient care. The purpose of this article is to review the use of VR training for motor rehabilitation after stroke.
Arabidopsis thaliana ACS8 plays a crucial role in the early biosynthesis of ethylene elicited by Cu2+ ions

ABSTRACT Cu2+ ions are required by all living organisms and play important roles in many bactericides and fungicides. We previously reported that Cu2+ can elicit defense responses, which are dependent on the ethylene signaling pathway in Arabidopsis. However, the mechanism by which Cu2+ elicits the biosynthesis of ethylene remains unclear. Here, we show that CuSO4 treatment rapidly increases the production of ethylene. In addition, it upregulates the expression of several defense-related genes and ethylene biosynthesis genes, including genes encoding S-adenosylmethionine synthase, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate (ACC) synthase (ACS) and ACC oxidase. Among these genes, Arabidopsis thaliana (At)ACS8 was identified as essential for the defense response and early ethylene biosynthesis induced by Cu2+. Furthermore, Cu2+-induced AtACS8 expression depended on the copper-response cis-element (CuRE) in the promoter of AtACS8. Our study indicates that Cu2+ specifically activates the expression of AtACS8 to promote the early biosynthesis of ethylene that elicits plant immunity in Arabidopsis plants. Summary: Cu2+ ions activate expression of the Arabidopsis thaliana ACS8 gene to promote ethylene biosynthesis and elicit a defense response that is dependent on the CuRE regulatory element.
Human activity recognition based on Hidden Markov Models using computational RFID

RFID is widely adopted for human activity recognition in interior environments, e.g., elder-caring. Gaining insight through raw RFID data analysis is the key part of the human activity recognition systems. However, the inviolable uncertainty in RFID data, including external environment noise and fragmentary reading (reading collision), increase the difficulty for high-level application widely adoption. In order to address these challenges, we proposing a Hidden Markov Models based data analysis approach in this paper, comparing with previous researches, our method need less limitations and requires only a few prior knowledge about RFID placing, the approach learns from raw RFID data and apply it to analyze the data. Our method analyzes RFID RSSI and 3D-accelerometer data collecting from human movement recognition to overcome aforementioned issues. This system has already been built and successfully deployed in a real experimental room. Result shows that the system run well to obtains an activity recognition with low error rate of 2.5%.
ENHANCEMENT OF VIRULENCE OF BACILLUS THURINGIENSIS AND SERRATIA MARCESCENS BY CHEMICALS

Studies were conducted on the enhancement of pathogenicity of Bacillus thuringiensis by 1% boric acid against various species of termites. The increase in virulence of Serratia marcescens by 1% Potassium chloride or 1% Sodium citrate against the workers of M. championi has also been established. The increase in virulence is confirmed by the enhancement ratios, which are ranging from about 1.5 to 1.8 for Bacillus thuringiensis and 1.3 to 1.6 for Serratia marcescens. It was also noted that 1% boric acid alone was found toxic to various species of termites. However, Potassium chloride and Sodium citrate in a concentration of 1% were non-toxic to the workers of M. championi.
Predicting Protein Folding Classes without Overly Relying on Homology

An important open problem in molecular biology is how to use computational methods to understand the structure and function of proteins given only their primary sequences. We describe and evaluate an original machine-learning approach to classifying protein sequences according to their structural folding class. Our work is novel in several respects: we use a set of protein classes that previously have not been used for classifying primary sequences, and we use a unique set of attributes to represent protein sequences to the learners. We evaluate our approach by measuring its ability to correctly classify proteins that were not in its training set. We compare our input representation to a commonly used input representation--amino acid composition--and show that our approach more accurately classifies proteins that have very limited homology to the sequences on which the systems are trained.