Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Preoperative Elevation of Serum C-Reactive Protein as an Indicator for Prognosis in Colorectal Cancer

Background: Cancer has not been elucidated in colerectal site. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a product synthesized in hepatocytes and has been reported to be up-regulat- ed by such proinflammatory cytokines as interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). The significance of a preoperative serum elevation was evaluated using CRP as a predictive indicator for the malignant potential and prognosis. Methods: Forty consecutive patient with colorectal cancer whose local lesions were resected in our department, plus forty healthy volunteers, were selected. Any patient with inflammatory diseases such as infection or collagen disease was exclud- ed from the current study. The preoperative serum CRP level and the control group were measured. The relationships between the serum elevation of CRP and both the clinicopathologic factors and prognosis of the patients was investigated. Results: The rate of patients with elevated serum CRP level was significantly higher in the colorectal cancer patients in comparison to the control group (55% ver- sus 2.5%). Furthermores the incidence of liver metastasis, peritoneal carcinomatosis, histopathologic lymph nodes metastasis, and tumor invasion in colorectal cancer pa- tients with a preoperatively elevated serum CRP level were significantly more fre- quent than in those with a negative serum CRP level. The survival rates of the col- orectal cancer patients without a preoperative elevation of the serum CRP proved to be significantly more favorable than that of the colorectal cancer patients with such an elevation (94.4% versus 59.1% ; P<0.001). Conclusion: A preoperative serum elevation of CRP was thus found to be an indi- cator of the malignant potential of the tumor as well as prognostic factor for patients with colorectal cancer.
Customer Context Based Transactions in Mobile Commerce Business Environment

Context-aware computing deals with acquisition of surrounding context, reasoning and inferring further knowledge about current status of customer environment. The proposed Context-Information, Observation and Belief (C-IOB) model collects the relevant context information, forms observations which are further deduced to beliefs. The purpose is to identify and execute context-aware transactions for a customer. To enhance the feature of our proposed system, several combinations of context information is utilized to realize the user real world situations. The accuracy of the system with belief based approach is higher. The simulation results have shown that the time to execute mobile commerce transactions is less using context based beliefs and the customer benefits in business transactions are also enhanced by our design approach.
Consideration of Dose and Timing When Applying Interventions After Stroke and Spinal Cord Injury

Background and Purpose: Nearly 4 decades of investigation into the plasticity of the nervous system suggest that both timing and dose could matter. This article provides a synopsis of our lectures at the IV STEP meeting, which presented a perspective of current data on the issues of timing and dose for adult stroke and spinal cord injury motor rehabilitation. Summary of Key Points: For stroke, the prevailing evidence suggests that greater amounts of therapy do not result in better outcomes for upper extremity interventions, regardless of timing. Whether or not greater amounts of therapy result in better outcomes for lower extremity and mobility interventions needs to be explicitly tested. For spinal cord injury, there is a complex interaction of timing postinjury, task-specificity, and the microenvironment of the spinal cord. Inflammation appears to be a key determinant of whether or not an intervention will be beneficial or maladaptive, and specific retraining of eccentric control during gait may be necessary. Recommendations for Clinical Practice: To move beyond the limitations of our current interventions and to effectively reach nonresponders, greater precision in task-specific interventions that are well-timed to the cellular environment may hold the key. Neurorehabilitation that ameliorates persistent deficits, attains greater recovery, and reclaims nonresponders will decrease institutionalization, improve quality of life, and prevent multiple secondary complications common after stroke and spinal cord injury.
Virulence factors of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae involved in colonization, persistence and induction of lesions in its porcine host

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae is the causative agent of porcine pleuropneumonia. The virulence factors of this microorganism involved in colonization and the induction of lung lesions have been thoroughly studied and some have been well characterized. A. pleuropneumoniae binds preferentially to cells of the lower respiratory tract in a process involving different adhesins and probably biofilm formation. Apx toxins and lipopolysaccharides exert pathogenic effects on several host cells, resulting in typical lung lesions. Lysis of host cells is essential for the bacterium to obtain nutrients from the environment and A. pleuropneumoniae has developed several uptake mechanisms for these nutrients. In addition to persistence in lung lesions, colonization of the upper respiratory tract – and of the tonsils in particular – may also be important for long-term persistent asymptomatic infection. Information on virulence factors involved in tonsillar and nasal cavity colonization and persistence is scarce, but it can be speculated that similar features as demonstrated for the lung may play a role.
Feasibility Analysis of Anaerobic Biocathode Enhancing Biological Degradation of Recalcitrant Chlorinated Nitroaromatic Compounds (CNAs)

Anaerobic biological technology and bioelectrochemical technology are regarded as promising sustainable wastes treatment processes. With biocatalysis in BESs anode or cathode, various pollutants can be removed. The pollutants range from nitrogen and sulfur to complex compounds. However, the investigation on recalcitrant wastes removal with biocathode has only been reported recently. Recalcitrant wastes, especially chlorinated nitroaromatic compounds, are highly persistent and toxic environmental pollutions which should be removed before discharging to environment. This paper provides a review on anaerobic biocathode BESs for recalcitrant wastes treatment and the feasibility of this system for CANs transformation. It is expected that anaerobic biocathode BESs can provide an appropriate condition for these compounds to transform to easily degradable forms. The technical challenges for future research are also discussed.
HIV-1 Nef upregulates CCL2/MCP-1 expression in astrocytes in a myristoylation- and calmodulin-dependent manner

HIV-associated dementia (HAD) correlates with infiltration of monocytes into the brain. The accessory HIV-1 negative factor (Nef) protein, which modulates several signaling pathways, is constitutively present in persistently infected astroctyes. We demonstrated that monocytes responded with chemotaxis when subjected to cell culture supernatants of nef-expressing astrocytic U251MG cells. Using a protein array, we identified CC chemokine ligand 2/monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (CCL2/MCP-1) as a potential chemotactic factor mediating this phenomenon. CCL2/MCP-1 upregulation by Nef was further confirmed by ribonuclease protection assay, RT-PCR and ELISA. By applying neutralizing antibodies against CCL2/MCP-1 and using CCR2-deficient monocytes, we confirmed CCL2/MCP-1 as the exclusive factor secreted by nef-expressing astrocytes capable of attracting monocytes. Additionally, we showed that Nef-induced CCL2/MCP-1 expression depends on the myristoylation moiety of Nef and requires functional calmodulin. In summary, we suggest that Nef-induced CCL2/MCP-1 expression in astrocytes contributes to infiltration of monocytes into the brain, and thereby to progression of HAD.
The role of predator selection on polymorphic aposematic poison frogs

Demonstrations of interactions between diverse selective forces on bright coloration in defended species are rare. Recent work has suggested that not only do the bright colours of Neotropical poison frogs serve to deter predators, but they also play a role in sexual selection, with females preferring males similar to themselves. These studies report an interaction between the selective forces of mate choice and predation. However, evidence demonstrating phenotypic discrimination by potential predators on these polymorphic species is lacking. The possibility remains that visual (avian) predators possess an inherent avoidance of brightly coloured diurnal anurans and purifying selection against novel phenotypes within populations is due solely to non-random mating. Here, we examine the influence of predation on phenotypic variation in a polymorphic species of poison frog, Dendrobates tinctorius. Using clay models, we demonstrate a purifying role for predator selection, as brightly coloured novel forms are more likely to suffer an attack than both local aposematic and cryptic forms. Additionally, local aposematic forms are attacked, though infrequently, indicating ongoing testing/learning and a lack of innate avoidance. These results demonstrate predator-driven phenotypic purification within populations and suggest colour patterns of poison frogs may truly represent a ‘magic trait’.
Dynamics of Complex Fluids: Proceedings of the Second Royal Society-Unilever Indo-Uk Forum in Materials Science and Engineering

Part 1 Viscoelasticity: extensive rheology and flow instabilities in elastic polymer solutions computing with high viscoelasticity Brownian dynamics simulations in polymer physics. Part 2 Polymeric and self-assembled systems: polymer liquids at high shear rates formation of polymer brushes dynamics of absorbed polymer layers. Part 3 Particulate dispersions: the nonequilibrium statistical mechanics of sedimentation migrational instabilities in particle suspensions microstructure of colloidal dispersions under flow. Part 4 Viscoplasticity: crucial elements of yield stress fluid rheology are plug flow regions possible in fluids exhibiting a yield stress? strain localization during the squeeze flow of a paste computation of large scale viscoplastic flows of frictional geotechnical materials.
Optimisation of cotton wax removal using bacteria isolate from gin trash

This study was conducted to establish optimal temperature, pH and incubation time for bacteria from gin trash, for enhancing wax removal during cotton bioscouring. Universal Rotatable Experimental Design was used for the process of optimisation and efficiency assessed by the percentage weight loss after solvent extraction of the treated fibres. Optimum wax of 0.765% out of 1.2% present in the fibres was removed at 45 °C, pH 8 within 1 h. Minitab 15 and Monte Carlos were used for the parameter modelling and sensitivity analysis. A second-order polynomial regression model was fitted and found adequate with a determination coefficient, R2, of 0.94032 (p < 0.005). At 45 °C, pH 8, maximum 0.747% wax was removed by the bacteria in pectinase treatment within 1 h. 0.752% wax was removed from bulkier treated fibres, without significant change in fibre strength. Temperature was found to be the most significant variable in the bacterial cotton wax removal.
The Effects of Violent Video Game Habits on Adolescent Aggressive Attitudes and Behaviors.

Video games have become one of the favorite activities of children in America. A growing body of research links violent video game play to aggressive cognitions, attitudes, and behaviors. This study tested the predictions that exposure to violent video game content is: (1) positively correlated with hostile attribution bias; (2) positively correlated with arguments with teachers and physical fights; (3) negatively correlated with school performance; and (4) positively correlated with hostility. Participating in the study were 607 eighth and ninth graders from 4 schools. Each prediction was supported. Youth who exposed themselves to greater amounts of video game violence saw the world as a more hostile place, were more hostile themselves, got into arguments with teachers more frequently, were more likely to be involved in physical fights, and performed more poorly in school. Video game violence exposure was a significant predictor of physical fights even when respondent sex, hostility level, and weekly amount of game play were statistically controlled. The findings suggest that video game violence is a risk factor for aggressive behavior and that parental involvement in video game play may act as a protective factor for youth. Results support the framework of the General Aggression Model. (Contains 3 tables and 33 references.) (Author/KB) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. ( U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION \ Office of Educational Research and Improvement EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATION CENTER (ERIC) This document has been reproduced as ceived from the person or organization originating it. I ID Minor changes have been made to improve reproduction quality. Points of view or opinions stated in this document do not necessarily represent official OERI position or policy. PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE AND DISSEMINATE THIS MATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY
Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease in Adolescents and Adults through the Transcendental Meditation(®) Program: A Research Review Update.

The pathogenesis and progression of cardiovascular diseases are thought to be exacerbated by stress. Basic research indicates that the Transcendental Meditation(®) technique produces acute and longitudinal reductions in sympathetic tone and stress reactivity. In adolescents at risk for hypertension, the technique has been found to reduce resting and ambulatory blood pressure, left ventricular mass, cardiovascular reactivity, and to improve school behavior. Research on adults with mild or moderate essential hypertension has reported decreased blood pressure and reduced use of anti-hypertensive medication. The technique has also been reported to decrease symptoms of angina pectoris and carotid atherosclerosis, to reduce cardiovascular risk factors, including alcohol and tobacco use, to markedly reduce medical care utilization for cardiovascular diseases, and to significantly decrease cardiovascular and all-cause morbidity and mortality. These findings have important implications for inclusion of the Transcendental Meditation program in efforts to prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases and their clinical consequences. (®)Transcendental Meditation and TM are trademarks registered in the US. Patent and Trademark Office, licensed to Maharishi Vedic Education Development Corporation and are used with permission.
Effect of vegetables on human phenolsulfotransferases in relation to their antioxidant activity and total phenolics

Epidemiology studies have shown that consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with the prevention of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. Induction of cellular phase II detoxifying enzymes is associated with cancer preventive potential. Phenolsulfotransferases (PSTs) are traditionally known as phase II drug-metabolizing or detoxifying enzymes that facilitate the removal of drugs and other xenobiotic compounds. Phenolic acids are known to increase the activities of PSTs. In the present study, human HepG2 cells were used as model to investigate the influence of twenty vegetables on human PST activity and to evaluate the relationships to their antioxidant activity and total phenolics content. The result showed that PST-P activity was significantly (p<0.01) induced by asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, celery and eggplant, whereas PST-M activity was induced by asparagus, broccoli, carrot, eggplant and potato at a concentration of 100 μg/ml. The vegetable extracts that induced both forms of PSTs activities were found to have higher antioxidant capacities and total phenolic content in the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and Folin-Ciocalteu assay. The major polyphenols in broccoli, the most potential inducer in both forms of PSTs activities, was antioxidant phenolic acids. HPLC retention times and standard spiked indicated the presence of gallic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, p-coumaric acid, gentisic acid and ferulic acid in broccoli. The overall effect of vegetables tested on the activity of PST-P was well correlated to their ORAC value and total phenolics content ( and ). These results imply that vegetables have a capability of inducing PST activity, and the PST induction may be possibly ascribed to antioxidant phenolic acids in vegetable extracts.
Evolving hypermedia middleware services: lessons and observations

In this paper, we consider the evolution of hypermedia system architectures from the monolithic systems of the 1980’s to the middleware-oriented component-based open systems of today. We look at the various problems that users and system designers encountered with systems at various stages of this development, focusing particularly on problems that were solved or caused by moving toward a more middleware-oriented approach. Although we cast our discussion in terms of specific hypermedia systems, we believe that many of our observations on the advantages and challenges of our current middleware approach may be helpful to those in other areas of system research.
Discovery Colloquium: Quality Software Development Internet Speed

Abstract : In October, 2001, the Software Engineering Institute hosted a colloquium to explore issues faced by organizations challenged with developing quality software at Internet speed and to examine the impact of Internet speed on current software development practices. The colloquium was an element of an exploratory study being conducted by a team of researchers from Carnegie Mellon University, Georgia State University, and The IT University of Copenhagen. Team members shared their findings from a previous phase of the study in which they had investigated quality and fast-cycle lnternet-software engineering in nine organizations. Members of those organizations attended the colloquium, along with others who were invited to participate based on their perceived ability to contribute to the discussion of Internet speed development. This report describes the activities of the colloquium and the raw data collected during group discussions and breakout sessions. It also includes a brief description of the field study done by the cross-institutional team. A preliminary analysis of the results of the colloquium is presented in the conclusion of the report.
ON THE POSSIBILITY OF INFORMATIONALLY EFFICIENT MARKETS

This paper presents conditions for a resolution of the Grossman-Stiglitz paradox of informationally ef cient markets. We display a market with asymmetric information where a privately revealing equilibrium obtains in a competitive framework and where incentives to acquire information are preserved as long as the correlation in traders’ valuations is not too large. The equilibrium is ef cient, and the problems associated with fully revealing rational expectations equilibria are precluded without resorting necessarily to noise traders. The robustness of the results to general information structures is established and the effect of market power is examined in a large market approximation to the competitive economy. The model is applied to explain changes in bidding behavior in central bank liquidity auctions in the crisis period. (JEL: D82, D84, G14, E59) The editor in charge of this paper was Dirk Bergemann. Acknowledgments: This paper was delivered as the Schumpeter lecture in the 28th Congress of the EEA in Gothenburg in 2013. The comments of the Editor Dirk Bergemann and three anonymous referees have contributed to improve the paper. I am grateful to Carolina Manzano, Bruno Biais, Paul Klemperer, Jaume Ventura and to participants at presentations of early versions of the paper (with title “A Large-Market Rational Expectations EquilibriumModel”) at ESEM in Oslo (August 2011), ESSET (July 2012), Arizona State University and Caltech (April 2012) for helpful comments. I thank also Anna Bayona, Rodrigo Escudero and Jorge Paz for excellent research assistance. The research reported in this paper has been supported by European Advanced Grant (no. 230254). Complementary support from project ECO201129533 of the Spanish Ministry of Education and Science at the Public-Private Sector Research Center at IESE is acknowledged. E-mail: XVives@iese.edu Journal of the European Economic Association Preprint prepared on 24 June 2014 using jeea.cls v1.0.
Modeling location management in personal communications services

Location management refers to accessing and maintaining user information for call routing purposes. This paper presents a realistic modeling framework for evaluating the performance of location management schemes in PCS networks. The framework captures complex human behaviors and has been validated through analysis of actual call and mobility data. Simulation results, showing the performance of IS-41, are presented.
The Value of Qualitative Description in Health Services and Policy Research

Health services and policy (HSP) researchers have long used qualitative research methodologies to explore health system issues. However, the appropriateness of one approach, qualitative description, for HSP research is still often overlooked. In this article, I discuss the role that qualitative description can play in HSP research, and argue for its greater acceptance as a valid form of academic scholarship.
Integrative and Translational Physiology : Integrative Aspects of Energy Homeostasis and Metabolic Diseases Meal-contingent intestinal lymph sampling from awake , unrestrained rats

Arnold M, Dai Y, Tso P, Langhans W. Meal-contingent intestinal lymph sampling from awake, unrestrained rats. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 302: R1365–R1371, 2012. First published April 18, 2012; doi:10.1152/ajpregu.00497. 2011. —Standard procedures for intestinal lymph collection involve continuous, quantitative drainage of the lymph fluid in anesthetized or restrained animals that are often euthanized within 48 h. We here describe a novel technique for the nonocclusive cannulation of the major intestinal lymph duct in rats that allows for repetitive in vivo sampling of intestinal lymph from unrestrained, awake, and ad libitum-fed animals. The distinctive feature of this novel technique is that a 5to 7-mm long piece of Vialon tubing (OD/ID: 0.8/0.7 mm) with a small hole in its wall is first implanted into the major intestinal lymph duct for stabilization. The tapered tip (OD: 0.1 mm) of the catheter is then inserted into the hole of the tubing and fixed in place with a polyamid suture and a drop of tissue glue. In our hands, catheters implanted this way remain patent for up to 6 wk after surgery. In an initial experiment we collected lymph from six adult rats before (0) and 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120, and 180 min (120 l, each) after the onset of isocaloric (12.5 kcal) low-fat (LF) or high-fat (HF) test meals and measured active glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Intestinal lymphatic GLP-1 concentration increased (P 0.05) from 4 pmol/l (0 min) to a peak of 33 6 (means SE) or 22 4 pmol/l at 15 (HF) or 30 min (LF) after meal onset and gradually returned to baseline levels by 180 min. With this new technique fewer animals are required to generate physiologically relevant data for various aspects of gastrointestinal physiology that involve the lymphatic system. Furthermore, the advantage of this system is that the animal can act as its own control when the effect of different experimental protocols is tested.