Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of cell-laden alginate hollow fibers using microfluidic chips and microvascularized tissue-engineering applications.

Biomimetic microstructures can be used for tissue assembly, tissue and organ regeneration, and as drug carriers. To date, diverse microscale structures that use microengineering technologies (e.g., microor nanoparticles, microor nanofibers, and 2D patterns) have been used as drug delivery systems for the controlled release of therapeutic drugs, as scaffolds for support of cells in defective tissues, and as basic materials for the study of cell–cell interactions. In living organisms, microscale and porous hollow fibers, such as blood vessels, are important for the delivery of small amounts of liquid to specific places. Such structures also have industrial applications including the filtering and channeling of small volumes of liquid. In spite of their diverse potential applications, the study of hollow fibers has been limited to specific areas, such as hemodialysis, because fabrication is very difficult. In addition, it is difficult to load cells and proteins into hollow fibers without loss of biological activity. Previously, we demonstrated the fabrication of microscale fibers or hollow fibers based on an ‘‘on-the-fly’’ method that uses microfluidic chips. However, the material that we originally used was not biodegradable or biocompatible. Subsequently, we reported the production of alginate solid fibers and cell encapsulation in these fibers. In addition, Sugiura et al. have reported the fabrication of an alginate
Nigral stimulation for resistant axial motor impairment in Parkinson’s disease? A randomized controlled trial

Gait and balance disturbances typically emerge in advanced Parkinson’s disease with generally limited response to dopaminergic medication and subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation. Therefore, advanced programming with interleaved pulses was put forward to introduce concomittant nigral stimulation on caudal contacts of a subthalamic lead. Here, we hypothesized that the combined stimulation of subthalamic nucleus and substantia nigra pars reticulata improves axial symptoms compared with standard subthalamic nucleus stimulation. Twelve patients were enrolled in this 2 × 2 cross-over double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial and both the safety and efficacy of combined subthalamic nucleus and substantia nigra pars reticulata stimulation were evaluated compared with standard subthalamic nucleus stimulation. The primary outcome measure was the change of a broad-scaled cumulative axial Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale score (Scale II items 13–15, Scale III items 27–31) at ‘3-week follow-up’. Secondary outcome measures specifically addressed freezing of gait, balance, quality of life, non-motor symptoms and neuropsychiatric symptoms. For the primary outcome measure no statistically significant improvement was observed for combined subthalamic nucleus and substantia nigra pars reticulata stimulation at the ‘3-week follow-up’. The secondary endpoints, however, revealed that the combined stimulation of subthalamic nucleus and substantia nigra pars reticulata might specifically improve freezing of gait, whereas balance impairment remained unchanged. The combined stimulation of subthalamic nucleus and substantia nigra pars reticulata was safe, and of note, no clinically relevant neuropsychiatric adverse effect was observed. Patients treated with subthalamic nucleus and substantia nigra pars reticulata stimulation revealed no ‘global’ effect on axial motor domains. However, this study opens the perspective that concomittant stimulation of the substantia nigra pars reticulata possibly improves otherwise resistant freezing of gait and, therefore, highly warrants a subsequent phase III randomized controlled trial.
Fatores Econômicos Determinam o Fim de uma Relação Conjugal

Resumo: O artigo investiga a questao da uniao conjugal dentro contexto de escolha randomica pelo agente. Aqui, sao definidos os estados que um agente pode assumir numa relacao (solteiro, uniao consensual e casado) de modo a se conhecer de que modo os diversos fatores podem influenciar na mudanca de um estado para o outro (solteiro para casado, por exemplo). Visto sob esse prisma, a proposta recai na aplicacao do modelo logit multinomial como forma de estimar probabilidade de escolha de estado. Afinal, de acordo com Becker (1976), a questao do casamento na sociedade moderna pode ser contextualizada dentro da otica do agente racional sob o ponto de vista que existe um mercado onde o agente escolhe seu parceiro (a) de modo a maximizar sua utilidade sujeito a restricao.
Fatty Acid Induced Remodeling within the Human Liver Fatty Acid-binding Protein*

We crystallized human liver fatty acid-binding protein (LFABP) in apo, holo, and intermediate states of palmitic acid engagement. Structural snapshots of fatty acid recognition, entry, and docking within LFABP support a heads-in mechanism for ligand entry. Apo-LFABP undergoes structural remodeling, where the first palmitate ingress creates the atomic environment for placement of the second palmitate. These new mechanistic insights will facilitate development of pharmacological agents against LFABP.
English in a global voluntary work context: a case study of spoken interaction and its implications for language pedagogy

This study analyses a sample of spoken interaction between a Japanese volunteer working for JICA (Japan International Co-operation Agency) and one of her co-workers in Jamaica. Details of the research context are provided, followed by a theoretical grounding of the project, which relates to publications in English as a Lingua Franca and related fields. In terms of methodology and epistemology, the research aligns with discourse analysis, specifically linguistic ethnography and interactional sociolinguistics. After presenting an an analysis of the spoken interaction based on these approaches, the resulting implications for language pedagogy are considered. This includes recommendations for specific aspects of language teaching and testing practice based on the research findings, which could be incorporated into a needs-driven localized pedagogy for future Japanese volunteers. These findings also carry significant implications for other contexts of language education, not only in terms of specific pedagogical practices but also regarding broader conceptions of language and communication.
A probabilistic framework based on SLIC-superpixel and Gaussian processes for segmenting nerves in ultrasound images

We deal with an important problem in the field of anesthesiology known as automatic segmentation of nerve structures depicted in ultrasound images. This is important to aid the experts in anesthesiology, in order to carry out Peripheral Nerve Blocking (PNB). Ultrasound imaging has gained recent interest for performing PNB procedures since it offers a non-invasive visualization of the nerve and the anatomical structures around it. However, the location of these nerves in ultrasound images is a difficult task for the specialist due to the artifacts (i.e. speckle noise) that affect the intelligibility of a given image. In this paper, we present a probabilistic approach based on Simple Linear Iterative Clustering (SLIC-superpixels) and Gaussian processes for automatic segmentation of peripheral nerves. First, we use Graph cuts segmentation to define a region of interest (ROI). Such a ROI is divided into several correlated regions using SLIC-superpixels, then, a nonlinear Wavelet transform is applied as feature extraction stage. Finally, we use a classification scheme based on Gaussian Processes in order to predict the label of each parametrized superpixel (the label can be “nerve” or “background”). The accuracy of the proposed method is measured in terms of the Dice coefficient. Results obtained show performances with a Dice coefficient of 0.6524±0.0085 which brings accurate performances in nerve segmentation processes.
Cognitive Spare Capacity and Speech Communication: A Narrative Overview

Background noise can make speech communication tiring and cognitively taxing, especially for individuals with hearing impairment. It is now well established that better working memory capacity is associated with better ability to understand speech under adverse conditions as well as better ability to benefit from the advanced signal processing in modern hearing aids. Recent work has shown that although such processing cannot overcome hearing handicap, it can increase cognitive spare capacity, that is, the ability to engage in higher level processing of speech. This paper surveys recent work on cognitive spare capacity and suggests new avenues of investigation.
QoS Information of Interval Number in Web Service Selection

For the accurate QoS information service selection does not reflect the uncertainty of QoS problems, firstly, to analyze the Web service QoS information uncertainty in Web services selection, and describes the QoS bulletin value, demand value and weight constraints of uncertain representation. Then, using interval numbers comparison of methods and close to ideal point multiple attribute decision making method, establish Web services selection based on uncertain QoS information model and simulation experiments. Experimental results:(1) Along with the service each item of QoS attribute optimization, its composite index rises gradually, and becomes the most superior choice from the worst service. (2) The service has the superiority in some attribute, takes the degree along with the consumer the attribute the gradual increase, the service quality synthetic evaluation index also gradually increases. Two results are proved valid QoS information of Web service selection for interval number is correct.
Mapping Zika virus infection using geographical information systems in Tolima, Colombia, 2015-2016

Objective: Geographical information systems (GIS) have been extensively used for the development of epidemiological maps of tropical diseases, however not yet specifically for Zika virus (ZIKV) infection. Methods: Surveillance case data of the ongoing epidemics of ZIKV in the Tolima department, Colombia (2015-2016) were used to estimate cumulative incidence rates (cases/100,000 pop.) to develop the first maps in the department and its municipalities, including detail for the capital, Ibagué. The GIS software used was Kosmo Desktop 3.0RC1®. Two thematic maps were developed according to municipality and communes incidence rates. Results: Up to March 5, 2016, 4,094 cases of ZIKV were reported in Tolima, for cumulated rates of 289.9 cases/100,000 pop. (7.95% of the country). Burden of ZIKV infection has been concentrated in its east area, where municipalities have reported >500 cases/100,000 pop. These municipalities are bordered by two other departments, Cundinamarca (3,778 cases) and Huila (5,338 cases), which also have high incidences of ZIKV infection. Seven municipalities of Tolima ranged from 250-499.99 cases/100,000 pop. , of this group five border with high incidence municipalities (>250), including the capital, where almost half of the reported cases of ZIKV in Tolima are concentrated. Conclusions: Use of GIS-based epidemiological maps helps to guide decisions for the prevention and control of diseases that represent significant issues in the region and the country, but also in emerging conditions such as ZIKV.
Distributed Intelligent Planning and Scheduling for Enhanced Spacecraft Autonomy

In this paper, we present a system for Distributed Intelligent Planning and Scheduling (DIPS) that helps a spacecraft function as an autonomous agent. A DIPS-based spacecraft receives only high-level goals from ground station operators, and performs its own planning and scheduling onboard, achieving these goals with onboard subsystems and in cooperation with other spacecraft. The task decentralization in DIPS employs a domain distribution algorithm that typically creates a feasible schedule afler the first coordination effort, thereby decreasing inter-agent negotiation during the scheduling process. The reasoning performed by DIPS agents to optimize time and resource usage while maintaining flight rules and constraints is based on a constraint propagation paradigm. Priority-based scheduling is implemented, and a hierarchical inter-agent eonflrmation/anthorization system is used for global goal coordination. An enhanced prototype is developed and demonstrated using space-based scenarios involving onboard instruments and a satellite constellation. The vertically layered architecture of the DIPS prototype integrates: 1) Java-based agent infarenee engine; 2) Prolog platform SICStus for eonstruint-based reasoning; and 3) KQML for inter-agent communication. We are specifically targeting our effort to enhance the planning and scheduling capability of NASA’s planned nanosatellite constellations.
Self-regulated learning and executive function: exploring the relationships in a sample of adolescent males

This study investigated relationships between SRL and EF in a sample of 254 school-aged adolescent males. Two hypotheses were tested: that self-reported measures of SRL and EF are closely related and that as different aspects of EF mature during adolescence, the corresponding components of SRL should also improve, leading to an age-related increase in the correlation between EF and SRL. Two self-report instruments were used: the strategies for self-regulated learning survey (SSRLS) and the behavioural rating instrument of executive function (BRIEF). Strong correlations between the measures of EF and SRL were found, especially in areas associated with metacognitive processes. Correlations between EF and SRL were found, with weaker correlations between behavioural regulation and SRL were found to be weaker for the younger participants in the sample while the relationship between EF and SRL appears to grow stronger during the initial years of high school even though self-reported levels of EF along with motivation for SRL and important components of SRL such as goal setting and planning were found to decrease with age. Decreasing levels of motivation for learning during adolescence are speculated to moderate the deployment of SRL and EF in a school context.
Association of Serum High Molecular Weight Adeponectin and Blood Pressure among Non-Diabetic Community-Dwelling Men

Adiponectin is one of the important molecules in the development of metabolic syndrome, and its concentration is decreased in obesity, type-2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. We aim to determine whether serum high-molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin, which is thought to represent the biological active form, was associated with a risk for the prevalence of prehypertension and hypertension. The cross-sectional study was carried out in 2002. A total of 614 men, aged 58 ± 14 (range, 20–89) years, and 779 women, aged 62 ± 12 (range, 21–88) years without medications for hypertension, diabetes, or dyslipidemia were recruited from a single community at the time of their annual health examination. In men, nonadjusted and age-adjusted mean serum HMW adiponectin were significantly lower in subjects with prehypertension and hypertension than those with normotension. In women, only nonadjusted values were higher in subjects with hypertension than those with normotension. Multiple linear regression analysis using systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) as an objective variable, adjusted for risk factors as explanatory variables, showed that only in men, log serum HMW adiponectin were significantly and independently associated with SBP and DBP. In men, lower serum HMW adiponectin categories were positively associated with prehypertension and hypertension in an age-adjusted model, and hypertension in an age- and BMI-adjusted model. Serum HMW adiponectin concentrations were inversely associated with blood pressure (BP) in the general male population.
Child-Report Measures of Occupational Performance: A Systematic Review

Introduction Improving occupational performance is a key service of occupational therapists and client-centred approach to care is central to clinical practice. As such it is important to comprehensively evaluate the quality of psychometric properties reported across measures of occupational performance; in order to guide assessment and treatment planning. Objective To systematically review the literature on the psychometric properties of child-report measures of occupational performance for children ages 2–18 years. Methods A systematic search of the following six electronic databases was conducted: CINAHL; PsycINFO; EMBASE; PubMed; the Health and Psychosocial Instruments (HAPI) database; and Google Scholar. The quality of the studies was evaluated against the COSMIN taxonomy of measurement properties and the overall quality of psychometric properties was evaluated using pre-set psychometric criteria. Results Fifteen articles and one manual were reviewed to assess the psychometric properties of the six measures–the PEGS, MMD, CAPE, PAC, COSA, and OSA- which met the inclusion criteria. Most of the measures had conducted good quality studies to evaluate the psychometric properties of measures (PEGS, CAPE, PAC, OSA); however, the quality of the studies for two of these measures was relatively weak (MMD, COSA). When integrating the quality of the psychometric properties of the measures with the quality of the studies, the PAC stood out as having superior psychometric qualities. Conclusions The overall quality of the psychometric properties of most measures was limited. There is a need for continuing research into the psychometric properties of child-report measures of occupational performance, and to revise and improve the psychometric properties of existing measures.
Gender‐specific polygenic control of ethylnitrosourea‐induced oncogenesis in the rat peripheral nervous system

The inbred BD rat strains constitute a model system for analysis of the genetic basis of susceptibility or resistance to the development of neural tumors, as they exhibit distinct strain‐specific differences regarding the sensitivity to tumor induction by the alkylating carcinogen N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea (EtNU). Among the different BD strains, BDIX and BDIV rats, respectively, are either highly susceptible or entirely resistant to the development of EtNU‐induced malignant schwannomas of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), predominantly of the trigeminal nerves. We have previously mapped one locus associated with susceptibility/resistance to schwannoma induction to the telomeric third of chromosome 10 (Mss1) in segregating (BDIX × BDIV) crosses. We report on the genetic mapping of 6 further loci controlling tumor incidence or survival time on chromosomes 1 (Mss2), 3 (Mss3), 6 (Mss4), 13 (Mss5) and 15 (Mss6) as well as on chromosome 10 (Mss7) close to the centromere. Interestingly, most of these loci mediate gender‐specific effects of variable strength ranging from minor influences on tumor development to complete tumor resistance. The gender specificity is reflected by the fact that male (BDIX × BDIV) F2 rats exhibit a 2‐fold higher incidence of EtNU‐induced schwannomas than females as well as a shorter survival time. A number of human nervous system tumors too arise with a marked gender bias. Genes mediating gender‐specific predisposition of developing malignant schwannomas in the rat may be relevant for the human individual risk of developing nervous system tumors. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vitro assembly and activity of an archaeal CRISPR-Cas type I-A Cascade interference complex

Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated (Cas) systems of type I use a Cas ribonucleoprotein complex for antiviral defense (Cascade) to mediate the targeting and degradation of foreign DNA. To address molecular features of the archaeal type I-A Cascade interference mechanism, we established the in vitro assembly of the Thermoproteus tenax Cascade from six recombinant Cas proteins, synthetic CRISPR RNAs (crRNAs) and target DNA fragments. RNA-Seq analyses revealed the processing pattern of crRNAs from seven T. tenax CRISPR arrays. Synthetic crRNA transcripts were matured by hammerhead ribozyme cleavage. The assembly of type I-A Cascade indicates that Cas3′ and Cas3′′ are an integral part of the complex, and the interference activity was shown to be dependent on the crRNA and the matching target DNA. The reconstituted Cascade was used to identify sequence motifs that are required for efficient DNA degradation and to investigate the role of the subunits Cas7 and Cas3′′ in the interplay with other Cascade subunits.
Blood pressure normalization in a large population of hypertensive patients treated with perindopril/indapamide combination: results of the OPTIMAX trial

Objective To determine if the fixed-dose perindopril/indapamide combination (Per/Ind) normalizes blood pressure (BP) in the same fraction of hypertensive patients when treated in everyday practice or in controlled trials. Methods In this prospective trial, 17 938 hypertensive patients were treated with Per 2 mg/Ind 0.625 mg for 3–6 months. In Group 1 Per/Ind was initiated in newly diagnosed patients (n = 7032); in Group 2 Per/Ind replaced previous therapy in patients already treated but having either their BP still uncontrolled or experiencing side-effects (n = 7423); in Group 3 Per/Ind was added to previous treatment in patients with persistently high BP (n = 3483). BP was considered normalized when ≤ 140/90 mm Hg. A multivariate analysis for predictors of BP normalization was performed. Results Subjects were on average 62 years old and had a baseline BP of 162.3/93.6 mm Hg. After treatment with Per/Ind, BP normalization was reached in 69.6% of patients in the Initiation group, 67.5% in the Replacement Group, and 67.4% in the Add-on Group (where patients were more frequently at risk, diabetic, or with target organ damage). Mean decreases in systolic BP of 22.8 mm Hg and in diastolic BP of 12.4 mm Hg were recorded. Conclusions This trial was established to reflect everyday clinical practice, and a treatment strategy based on the Per/Ind combination, administered as initial, replacement, or add-on therapy, led to normalization rates that were superior to those observed in Europe in routine practice. These results support recent hypertension guidelines which encourage the use of combination therapy in the management of arterial hypertension.
Effect of cell length on gliding motility of Flexibacter

Short Flexibacter FS-1 cells, generated during logarithmic growth in glucose-salts medium or by filament fragmentation during the transition from log to stationary phase in rich medium, are unable to glide. Motility returns when cells elongate. This strain also dissociates stable, short, nongliding variants.
Overview of the 3rd isirv-Antiviral Group Conference – advances in clinical management

This review highlights the main points which emerged from the presentations and discussions at the 3rd isirv‐Antiviral Group Conference ‐ advances in clinical management. The conference covered emerging and potentially pandemic influenza viruses and discussed novel/pre‐licensure therapeutics and currently approved antivirals and vaccines for the control of influenza. Current data on approved and novel treatments for non‐influenza respiratory viruses such as MERS‐CoV, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and rhinoviruses and the challenges of treating immunocompromised patients with respiratory infections was highlighted.