Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Emerging genetics of COPD

Since the discovery of alpha‐1 antitrypsin in the early 1960s, several new genes have been suggested to play a role in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) pathogenesis. Yet, in spite of those advances, much about the genetic basis of COPD still remains to be discovered. Unbiased approaches, such as genome‐wide association (GWA) studies, are critical to identify genes and pathways and to verify suggested genetic variants. Indeed, most of our current understanding about COPD candidate genes originates from GWA studies. Experiments in form of cross‐study replications and advanced meta‐analyses have propelled the field towards unravelling details about COPD's pathogenesis. Here, we review the discovery of genetic variants in association with COPD phenotypes by discussing the available approaches and current findings. Limitations of current studies are considered and future directions provided.
Design and anaylsis of a 2.5-Gbps optical receiver analog front-end in a 0.35-μm digital CMOS technology

This paper presents the design of an optical receiver analog front-end circuit capable of operating at 2.5 Gbit/s. Fabri- cated in a low-cost 0.35- m digital CMOS process, this integrated circuit integrates both transimpedance amplifier and post limiting amplifier on a single chip. In order to facilitate high-speed opera- tions in a low-cost CMOS technology, the receiver front-end has been designed utilizing several enhanced bandwidth techniques, including inductive peaking and current injection. Moreover, a power optimization methodology for a multistage wide band amplifier has been proposed. The measured input-referred noise of the optical receiver is about 0.8 A. The input sensitivity of the receiver front-end is 16 A for 2.5-Gbps operation with bit-error rate less than , and the output swing is about 250 mV (single-ended). The front-end circuit drains a total current of 33 mA from a 3-V supply. Chip size is m m.
Active sensing via movement shapes spatiotemporal patterns of sensory feedback

SUMMARY Previous work has shown that animals alter their locomotor behavior to increase sensing volumes. However, an animal’s own movement also determines the spatial and temporal dynamics of sensory feedback. Because each sensory modality has unique spatiotemporal properties, movement has differential and potentially independent effects on each sensory system. Here we show that weakly electric fish dramatically adjust their locomotor behavior in relation to changes of modality-specific information in a task in which increasing sensory volume is irrelevant. We varied sensory information during a refuge-tracking task by changing illumination (vision) and conductivity (electroreception). The gain between refuge movement stimuli and fish tracking responses was functionally identical across all sensory conditions. However, there was a significant increase in the tracking error in the dark (no visual cues). This was a result of spontaneous whole-body oscillations (0.1 to 1 Hz) produced by the fish. These movements were costly: in the dark, fish swam over three times further when tracking and produced more net positive mechanical work. The magnitudes of these oscillations increased as electrosensory salience was degraded via increases in conductivity. In addition, tail bending (1.5 to 2.35 Hz), which has been reported to enhance electrosensory perception, occurred only during trials in the dark. These data show that both categories of movements – whole-body oscillations and tail bends – actively shape the spatiotemporal dynamics of electrosensory feedback.
Transoral robotic-assisted surgery for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: one- and 2-year survival analysis.

OBJECTIVE to report 2-year survival outcomes for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma using transoral robotic-assisted resection. DESIGN prospective case study. SETTING two tertiary care centers. PATIENTS eighty-nine patients from 2 tertiary care centers (University of Alabama at Birmingham and the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota) with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma of all stages and subsites, who underwent transoral robotic-assisted resection between March 2007 and December 2008, with a median follow-up time of 26 months. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES disease-free survival, cancer recurrence, and gastrostomy tube dependence RESULTS seventy-one patients had T1 (n = 29) or T2 (n = 42) tumors while 18 patients had T3 (n = 8) or T4 (n = 10) tumors. There were 24 patients with overall stage I or II disease and 65 with stage III or IV disease. At the time of the last follow-up visit (median, 26 months), there had been a total of 11 patients with recurrent cancer: 3 with local; 7, regional (2 of whom also had distant metastases); and 1, distant. Seven patients were treated for recurrent disease. Eighty-two patients had no evidence of disease, 1 patient died of the disease, 2 died of other disease, and 4 were alive with disease at the last follow-up visit. Results of Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that the 2-year recurrence-free survival rate for the cohort was 86.5%. None of the patients were gastrostomy tube dependent at the last follow-up visit. CONCLUSION the 2-year functional and oncologic results justify the continued treatment of select patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma with robotic-assisted surgical resection.
Contribuições ao estudo sobre sensoriamento espectral baseado em autovalor para aplicações em sistemas de rádio cognitivo

Diante do cenario de escassez espectral resultante da politica de alocacao fixa adotada pelos orgaos regulatorios, pesquisas foram feitas e notou-se que, embora a maior parte do espectro de frequencia ja esteja alocada, uma consideravel subutilizacao existe. Neste contexto surgiu o revolucionario conceito de Radio Cognitivo, que pode se tornar o novo Big Bang em comunicacoes sem fio. Dentre as funcionalidades de um Radio Cognitivo, o sensoriamento espectral e uma das principais. Gracas a ela e possivel explorar a subutilizacao do espectro de maneira oportunista. As tecnicas de sensoriamento mais comuns e os desafios ligados a sua implementacao sao abordados nesta dissertacao. Entre as mais recentes e promissoras tecnicas encontra-se a deteccao cooperativa baseada em autovalores, com destaque especial para a deteccao por maximo autovalor, representando esta o enfoque principal do trabalho.
Generate and offshore: type-safe and modular code generation for low-level optimization

We present the Asuna system which supports implicitly heterogeneous multi-stage programming based on MetaOCaml, a multi-stage extension of OCaml. Our system allows programmers to write code generators in a high-level language, and generated code can be translated to a program in low-level languages such as C and LLVM. The high-level code generators can make use of all the features of MetaOCaml such as algebraic data types and higher-order functions while the generated code may include low-level CPU instructions such as vector (SIMD) operations. One can write programs in a modular and type-safe programming style and can directly represent low-level optimizations. Asuna is a multi-target system, that means a single code generator can generate code in C and LLVM, without changing the generator. The translation by Asuna preserves typing and all generated code is guaranteed to be well typed and well scoped. In this paper, we explain the practical aspect of Asuna, using examples taken from high-performance computing.
SIRT1 Functionally Interacts with the Metabolic Regulator and Transcriptional Coactivator PGC-1α*

In lower organisms, increased expression of the NAD-dependent deacetylase Sir2 augments lifespan. The mechanism through which this life extension is mediated remains incompletely understood. Here we have examined the cellular effects of overexpression of SIRT1, the closest mammalian ortholog of Sir2. In PC12 cells, increased expression of the NAD-dependent deacetylase SIRT1 reduces cellular oxygen consumption by ∼25%. We further demonstrate that SIRT1 expression can alter the transcriptional activity of the mitochondrial biogenesis coactivator PGC-1α. In addition, SIRT1 and PGC-1α directly interact and can be co-immunoprecipitated as a molecular complex. A single amino acid mutation in the putative ADP-ribosyltransferase domain of SIRT1 inhibits the interaction of SIRT1 with PGC-1α but does not effect the interaction of SIRT1 with either p53 or Foxo3a. We further show that PGC-1α is acetylated in vivo. This acetylation is augmented by treatment with the SIRT1 inhibitor nicotinamide or by expression of the transcriptional coactivator p300. Finally we demonstrate that SIRT1 catalyzes PGC-1α deacetylation both in vitro and in vivo. These results provide a direct link between the sirtuins, a family of proteins linked to lifespan determination and PGC-1α, a coactivator that regulates cellular metabolism.
Compact broadband dual‐band circularly polarised antenna for universal UHF RFID handheld reader and GPS applications

This study introduces a simple, compact broadband dual-band circularly polarised slot antenna suitable for the use in the compact universal ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio-frequency identification (RFID) reader devices and Global Positioning System (GPS) applications. The proposed antenna is fed using an open-end coplanar waveguide with an inverted `L' structure. To realise a broadband circular polarisation and good impedance matching, an inverted L-shaped strip line is inserted adequately into a square slot at the right centre of the slot toward the slot centre. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed antenna exhibits a 10 dB return loss bandwidth of 552 MHz (716-1268 MHz) and 3-dB axial ratio (AR) bandwidth of 564 MHz (824-1388 MHz). Additionally, the antenna gains are 3.8 and 4.29 dBi throughout UHF RFID band and GPS band, respectively. The proposed antenna has a wide AR bandwidth, a compact size, and a simple structure. Furthermore, the proposed antenna is printed on one substrate layer with an overall size of 112 × 112 × 1.6 mm 3 , which makes it more practical for universal UHF RFID handheld readers and GPS applications.
Hand–Arm-Vibration Syndrome (HAVS): Is There a Central Nervous Component? an fMRI Study

Hand-held vibrating tools may result in neuromuscular dysfunction and vasospastic problems of the hand. Sensory and motor dysfunction can be explained by injury to peripheral structures, but could also be due to changes in cortical somatotopic mapping of the hand in the brain. The purpose of the present study was to use functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to assess the somatotopic cortical representation of the hands of workers subjected to occupational vibration. The study included six men with severe vibration exposures who were suffering from hand–arm-vibration syndrome (HAVS) and six controls. The analysis focused on the pattern and degree of activation of contra- and ipsilateral hemispheres of the brain with tactile stimulation and motor activation of the hand. These stimulations resulted in well-defined activation of the contralateral, and to a lesser extent the ipsilateral hemisphere. Statistical analysis of this limited patient material did not indicate any significant somatotopic cortical changes following long-term exposure to vibrating hand-held tools, although there was a tendency to a shift of activation towards the more cranial parts of the cortex in the patient group.
Ecological and Behavioural Factors Influencing Territorial Call Rates for the Bolivian Titi Monkeys, Plecturocebus modestus and Plecturocebus olallae

Primate territorial calls have been used to locate groups in censuses. Daily variations in call rates are a potential source of error in these studies. To obtain more accurate estimations of population density it is necessary to determine how much variation there is in group call rates and to identify the factors that influence them. We present data on the emission of territorial calls by two threatened and endemic titi monkeys in Bolivia: Plecturocebus olallae and P. modestus. We found interspecific differences in daily call rates (52% P. modestus and 33% P. olallae). Groups inhabiting more continuous forests vocalized more frequently than groups in fragmented forests, which might be linked to the higher abundance of groups in less fragmented forests. We found seasonal differences in call rates between species, with more frequent calling in P. modestus during the dry season, while P. olallae called more frequently in the rainy season. The study groups emitted territorial calls mostly from the central zones of their territories, suggesting they do not face intense spatial competition with neighbouring groups. Our results improve the general ecological knowledge on P. olallae and P. modestus, and can also be used to improve population abundance studies and ongoing conservation efforts.
Secure Cloud Processing for Smart Meters Using Intel SGX

Smart Grids are power grids that use Information and Communication Technologies to improve the power generation, transmission and distribution. The main characteristic on Smart Grids is the ability to process and transmit a huge data information in real-time. However, that rise a new security challenge on confidentiality and data integrity, due to Smart Grids can be part of hostile environments. For example, using a cloud computing to realize billing and load balance process. Thus, to ensure confidentiality and data integrity of Smart Grids in cloud environments, this paper proposes an application for the protection of billing and load balancing data using the Intel Intel Software Guard extension SGX platform. SGX allow to instantiate protected memory areas called enclaves, preventing subprocesses or other machines within the cloud from accessing the data stored in them.
Sonographic detection of diffuse peripheral nerve enlargement in hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies

Hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP) is a disorder characterized by a tendency to develop focal neuropathies after trivial traumas. On teased nerve fiber studies, sausage‐shaped myelin sheath swellings (tomacula) are found. We report the sonographic findings in a patient with genetically proven HNPP. We were able to demonstrate enlargement of several peripheral nerves, even nerves that were clinically unaffected. Enlargement was found not only at typical nerve entrapment sites but also outside these sites. This diffuse nerve enlargement may play an important role in the pathogenesis of entrapment neuropathies in HNPP patients. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 30:433–436, 2002
A novel macrophage migration inhibitory factor gene from the Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei (LvMIF2): comparative sequence and transcription analysis with LvMIF1

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) was an ancient cytokine and involved in innate immunity of vertebrates and invertebrates. In the present study, a novel MIF homologue (designated as LvMIF2) has been cloned from the Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei via rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) technique. The full-length cDNA sequence of LvMIF2 was 555 bp and contained a 97 bp 5' untranslated region (UTR) and a 3' UTR of 110 bp, and an open reading frame (ORF) of 348 bp which coded 115 amino acids. Quantitative realtime PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis indicated that LvMIF2 was constitutively expressed in all the tested tissues, including eyestalk, gill, gonad, heart, hemocytes, hepatopancreas, intestine, muscle, nerve and stomach, with the highest mRNA expression level in hemocytes and hepatopancreas. After Vibrio parahaemolyticus or white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) challenge, the mRNA expression levels of LvMIF2 in hemocytes and hepatopancreas were all sharply upregulated. Comparative sequence and transcription analysis between the previously identified LvMIF1 and LvMIF2 revealed that both LvMIF1 and LvMIF2 might play crucial and functionally differentiated roles in shrimp innate immune responses to bacterial and viral stimulation.
Fuel cell and power conditioning system interactions

This paper intends to serve as a guide for the interactions between the power conditioning system and the fuel cell. The three major factors determining proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell power system dynamic performance, hydration/temperature, compressor time constant, and bulk energy storage are analyzed. The notion of multiple fuel cell time constants is introduced and derived. The various operating points of a fuel cell, ripple current mitigation and energy balance are illustrated with experimental data. Individual time constant validation techniques are offered and different capacitor bulk storage strategies (including ultra capacitors) are analyzed. A complete single phase power conditioning system is presented with experimental waveforms that can apply to different systems
Prognostic factors of patients requiring ventilatory support in the neuro-intensive care unit

Background and aim Among ICU admitted patients, primary indication for mechanical ventilation is neurologic in 20%. This is much higher in a dedicated neuro-ICU. The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical predictors for outcome of patients requiring ventilatory support in the neuro-ICU. Patients and methods This was a prospective cohort study done at Neuropsychiatry Department and Center of Psychiatry, Neurology and Neurosurgery, Tanta University, from May 2016 to May 2017. All patients requiring ventilatory support after admission in our ICU, who were more than or equal to 18 years, and did not die before mechanical ventilation introduction were considered for the study. Results Of 63 patients, 30 (47.6%) died after mechanical ventilation introduction. Analysis of variables showed that all the following were significant predictors for mortality: old age, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation-II score on admission, maximum Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Intracerebral Hemorrhage score on admission, ventilation strategy, main cause for ventilation, stroke type, and association of hypertension and cardiac diseases. Main cause of ventilation also significantly influenced modified Rankin scale among survivors. Conclusion Old age is associated with higher mortality, although mechanical ventilation can influence mortality among younger age groups. Early introduction of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation can improve in-hospital mortality. Outcome of ventilated patients is closely related to the main cause of ventilation, indicating mechanical ventilation is not essentially a therapeutic measure, however, a crucial supportive one. Application of Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation-II and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores and other prognostic and disability scores as National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Intracerebral Hemorrhage score and modified Rankin scale can monitor progression and significantly influence outcome of ventilated patients, especially when related to the main cause of ventilation.
Retention practices and factors affecting retainer choice among orthodontists in Saudi Arabia

Objectives: To identify the retention protocols practiced by orthodontists in Saudi Arabia, and the factors affecting retainer choice. Methods: This cross-sectional study took place between February and March of 2015 at the College of Dentistry, University of Dammam, Dammam, Saudi Arabia. A previously tested electronic survey of 34 items was sent to all 1,200 orthodontic members of the Saudi Orthodontic Society. The questionnaire elicited data on the subjects’ demographics, orthodontic treatment practices, retention, and post-retention protocols. Results: One hundred and sixty-seven (13.9%) responses were received during the study period. The results showed predominant use of Hawley in the maxillary arch (61.3%), and fixed lingual in the mandibular arch (58.5%). Approximately 90.3% recommended full-time maxillary removable retainer wear. Overall, orthodontists who performed fewer extractions tended to use fixed retainers, and those who performed more extractions used removable retainers (p=0.018). Interproximal enamel reduction was used by 28% of the respondents as an adjunct procedure to enhance retention. Approximately 64% practiced a post-retention phase of retainer wear. Participants who used removable retainers most commonly prescribed lifetime retention. Conclusion: Hawley in the maxilla, and fixed lingual in the mandible were the most common retention protocols prescribed. Lifetime retention was the most common choice for participants who used removable retainers, especially when extractions were carried out.
A New Surface Plasmon Resonance Immunosensor for Triazine Pesticide Determination in Bovine Milk: A Comparison with Conventional Amperometric and Screen-Printed Immunodevices

A detailed comparison was made of the analytical features of a new Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) immunodevice for triazine pesticide determination with those of two other amperometric (conventional and screen-printed) immunosensors and the advantages and disadvantages of the SPR method were thoroughly investigated. For conventional amperometric and screen-printed devices, “competitive” assays were used; conversely, the SPR transduction technique allowed a “direct” measurement format to be used. As far as the main analytical data are concerned, the SPR method does not seem to offer substantial advantages. Nevertheless the measurement time is much shorter and the measurement itself much easier to perform. Lastly several applications and recovery tests were carried out on bovine milk samples, before and after spiking, to check for triazine pesticides in the samples, obtaining satisfactory results.
Modified Tunnel Technique Combined with Enamel Matrix Derivative: A Minimally Invasive Treatment for Single or Multiple Class I Recession Defects.

PURPOSE Gingival recession is a significant problem in the esthetic zone. Connective tissue grafts have been considered the gold standard, but they need a donor site that increases morbidity and discomfort for the patient.The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the clinical results of a modified tunnel technique that consists of replacing the connective tissue graft by enamel matrix derivative, in the treatment of Miller Class I recession defects. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-six teeth in 14 subjects with Miller Class I recessions were treated using the tunnel procedure plus enamel matrix derivative. The gingival recession, probing depth, clinical attachment level, and the width of the keratinized gingival tissue were recorded. RESULTS There was a statistically significant reduction in gingival recession (88% of root coverage) and a gain in clinical attachment level (3.1 mm) between baseline and 24 months post-operatively, whereas the change in width of keratinized tissue and in probing depth was not statistically significant. All patients were satisfied with the esthetic appearance and would undergo the same surgery again. CONCLUSION This technique could be successfully used as an alternative to connective tissue grafts, with the advantage of avoiding the discomfort and morbidity of connective tissue harvesting. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE This modified tunnel technique using enamel matrix derivative potentially represents a clinically and esthetically satisfactory treatment of Miller Class I recession defects.