Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The physiological and metabolic impacts on sheep and cattle of feed and water deprivation before and during transport

Sheep and cattle are frequently subjected to feed and water deprivation (FWD) for about 12 h before, and then during, transport to reduce digesta load in the gastrointestinal tract. This FWD is marked by weight loss as urine and faeces mainly in the first 24 h but continuing at a reduced rate subsequently. The weight of rumen contents falls although water loss is to some extent masked by saliva inflow. FWD is associated with some stress, particularly when transportation is added. This is indicated by increased levels of plasma cortisol that may be partly responsible for an observed increase in the output of water and N in urine and faeces. Loss of body water induces dehydration that may induce feelings of thirst by effects on the hypothalamus structures through the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system. There are suggestions that elevated cortisol levels depress angiotensin activity and prevent sensations of thirst in dehydrated animals, but further research in this area is needed. Dehydration coupled with the discharge of Na in urine challenges the maintenance of homeostasis. In FWD, Na excretion in urine is reduced and, with the reduction in digesta load, Na is gradually returned from the digestive tract to the extracellular fluid space. Control of enteropathogenic bacteria by normal rumen microbes is weakened by FWD and resulting infections may threaten animal health and meat safety. Recovery time is required after transport to restore full feed intake and to ensure that adequate glycogen is present in muscle pre-slaughter to maintain meat quality.
Regenerative Medicine for Epilepsy: From Basic Research to Clinical Application

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder, which presents with various forms of seizures. Traditional treatments, including medication using antiepileptic drugs, remain the treatment of choice for epilepsy. Recent development in surgical techniques and approaches has improved treatment outcomes. However, several epileptic patients still suffer from intractable seizures despite the advent of the multimodality of therapies. In this article, we initially provide an overview of clinical presentation of epilepsy then describe clinically relevant animal models of epilepsy. Subsequently, we discuss the concepts of regenerative medicine including cell therapy, neuroprotective agents, and electrical stimulation, which are reviewed within the context of our data.
Solid State Fermentation of Aspergillus niger MENA 1 E and Rhizopus MENACO 11 A for Glucoamylase Production on Agricultural residues

Glucoamylases are important enzymes that allow the hydrolysis of starch and related polymers to glucose. They can be obtained from microbial as well as other sources. Studies were conducted with two fungal isolates, Aspergillus niger MENA1E and Rhizopus MENACO11A obtained locally from infected plant materials to assess their potential in producing glucoamylase. The organisms were grown on four substrates: wheat bran, rice bran, groundnut pod and maize bran. Glucoamylase was produced by both organisms on all four substrates. The highest glucoamylase activities of 2.0 U and 1.99 U respectively for Aspergillus niger MENA1E and Rhizopus MENACO11A were recorded after 48 hours on wheat bran. Significant activities of the enzyme were also produced on the other wastes studied in this report.
Strategic programming meets adaptive programming

Strategic programming is a generic programming idiom for processing compound data such as terms or object structures. At the heart of the approach is the separation of two concerns: basic dataprocessing computations vs. traversal schemes. Actual traversals are composed by passing the former as arguments to the latter. Traversal schemes can be defined by the strategic programmer using a combinator style that relies on primitives for layered traversal.In this paper, we take a look at strategic programming from an aspect-oriented programming perspective. Throughout the paper, we compare strategic programming with adaptive programming, which is a well-established aspectual approach to the traversal of object structures. We start from the observation that aspect-oriented programming terms, e.g., crosscutting, join point, and advice can be instantiated for aspectual traversal approaches.
Radial Hermite operators for scattered point cloud data with normal vectors and applications to implicitizing polygon mesh surfaces for generalized CSG operations and smoothing

We describe a new technique for fitting scattered point cloud data. Given a scattered point cloud of 3D data points and associated normal vectors, our new method produces an implicit volume model whose zero level isosurface interpolates the given points and associated normal vectors. We concentrate on certain application of these new volume modeling techniques. We take existing polygon mesh surfaces and use the present methods to construct implicit volume models for these surfaces. Implicit models allow for the application of Boolean operations on these surfaces through the techniques of constructive solid geometry. Also, standard wavelet and filter operators can be applied to the implicit volume model leading to effective smoothing and filtering algorithms, which are simple to implement.
Intracellular recording and dye transfer in arterioles during blood flow control.

We tested for dye coupling between arteriolar smooth muscle cells (SMC) and endothelial cells (EC) and investigated the correspondence of vasomotor activity with changes in the membrane potential (Vm) of EC and SMC during blood flow control. Female golden hamsters (n = 8, 90-170 g) were anesthetized (pentobarbital sodium, 60 mg/kg ip). A cheek pouch was spread over an optical pedestal, transilluminated, and irrigated with physiological saline solution (37 degrees C, pH 7.4). Glass microelectrodes were filled with 3 M KCl or with Lucifer yellow dye (LY, mol wt 470; 106 mM). SMC or EC of arterioles (ID, 20-50 microns) containing blood flow were impaled under a stereomicroscope. Vm was similar [-48 +/- 3 and -52 +/- 4 mV (means +/- SE)] with KCl (n = 6) or LY (n = 13) microelectrodes, respectively. Acetylcholine (5 x 10(-6) M) increased Vm from -47 +/- 3 to -67 +/- 4 mV (n = 5; P less than 0.01) concomitant with vasodilation. Spontaneous slow waves in Vm (2/min, 15-30 mV) were observed in arterioles with vasomotion. In cells identified with LY microinjection, resting Vm was -52 +/- 8 and -44 +/- 2 mV for EC (n = 3) and SMC (n = 3), respectively. SMC injected with LY did not show evidence of dye transfer to other SMC or to EC. When an EC was injected, the dye spread to many contiguous EC but not to SMC. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
New EMG pattern Recognition based on Soft Computing Techniques and Its Application to Control of a Rehabilitation Robotic Arm

A new EMG pattern classification method based on soft computing techniques is proposed to help the disabled and the elderly handle rehabilitation robotic arm systems. First, it is shown that EMG is more useful than existing input devices, such as voice, a laser pointer, and a keypad in view of naturality, extensibility, and applicability. Next, through soft computing techniques, such as the fuzzy logic and rough set theory, a new procedure is proposed to select an essential feature set of EMG signals that is independent of users. In order to classify pre-defined motions, a fuzzy pattern classification and fuzzy min-max neural networks (FMMNN) are adopted to handle the selected minimal feature set in systematical ways. As results, motions are recognized with success rates of 83 percent and 90 percent for fuzzy pattern classification and FMMNN, respectively.
A Novel System for Rapid and Cost-Effective Production of Detection and Diagnostic Reagents of West Nile Virus in Plants

The threat of West Nile virus (WNV) epidemics necessitates the development of a technology platform that can produce reagents to support detection and diagnosis rapidly and inexpensively. A plant expression system is attractive for protein production due to its low-cost and high-scalability nature and its ability to make appropriate posttranslational modifications. Here, we investigated the feasibility of using plants to produce two WNV detection and diagnostic reagents to address the current cost and scalability issues. We demonstrated that WNV DIII antigen and E16 monoclonal antibody are rapidly produced at high levels in two plant species and are easily purified. Furthermore, they are effective in identifying WNV and in detecting human IgM response to WNV infection. E16 mAb does not cross-react with other flaviviruses, therefore, is valuable for improving diagnostic accuracy. This study provides a proof of principle for using plants as a robust and economical system to produce diagnostic reagents for arboviruses.
Measurement technique for gain and distance and numerical simulation with a dipole antenna

A new antenna gain measurement technique is proposed. In the proposed technique, far-field two antenna gain measurement is performed with two sets of distances. The information required in the technique is the difference of distances and received power. To confirm the validity of the proposed technique, a numerical simulation was performed for a half-wavelength dipole antenna. An isotropic antenna was used as a standard gain antenna by neglecting mutual coupling between antennas. The distance and gain were properly calculated when distance is larger than two wavelengths, and the validity of the proposed technique was confirmed.
Deficits in microRNA-mediated Cxcr4/Cxcl12 signaling in neurodevelopmental deficits in a 22q11 deletion syndrome mouse model

Significance 22q11 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) is a chromosome disorder that frequently accompanies psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia. However, it remains elusive how the chromosomal microdeletion causes the mental manifestation. Here we show that a 22q11DS mouse model has deficits in the development of interneurons and hippocampal dentate gyrus and that DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 8 (Dgcr8), a microprocessor of microRNA and one of the genes in 22q11, underlies these neurodevelopmental abnormalities. Dgcr8 regulates Chemokine receptor 4/Chemokine ligand 12 (Cxcr4/Cxcl12; Sdf1) signaling, which is indispensable for interneuron and dentate gyrus development. Finally, we observe decreased expression of CXCL12 in olfactory neurons from sporadic schizophrenia. Given the increased risk of 22q11DS in schizophrenia, the overall study suggests that CXCR4/CXCL12 signaling may represent a common downstream mediator in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. 22q11 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) frequently accompanies psychiatric conditions, some of which are classified as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in the current diagnostic categorization. However, it remains elusive how the chromosomal microdeletion leads to the mental manifestation at the mechanistic level. Here we show that a 22q11DS mouse model with a deletion of 18 orthologous genes of human 22q11 (Df1/+ mice) has deficits in migration of cortical interneurons and hippocampal dentate precursor cells. Furthermore, Df1/+ mice show functional defects in Chemokine receptor 4/Chemokine ligand 12 (Cxcr4/Cxcl12; Sdf1) signaling, which reportedly underlie interneuron migration. Notably, the defects in interneuron progenitors are rescued by ectopic expression of Dgcr8, one of the genes in 22q11 microdeletion. Furthermore, heterozygous knockout mice for Dgcr8 show similar neurodevelopmental abnormalities as Df1/+ mice. Thus, Dgcr8-mediated regulation of microRNA is likely to underlie Cxcr4/Cxcl12 signaling and associated neurodevelopmental defects. Finally, we observe that expression of CXCL12 is decreased in olfactory neurons from sporadic cases with schizophrenia compared with normal controls. Given the increased risk of 22q11DS in schizophrenia that frequently shows interneuron abnormalities, the overall study suggests that CXCR4/CXCL12 signaling may represent a common downstream mediator in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and related mental conditions.
What does it mean to be a donor offspring? The identity experiences of adults conceived by donor insemination and the implications for counselling and therapy.

In the absence of research with adult donor offspring, this study begins to bridge that gap by asking individuals about their experiences as donor offspring and considering the implications for psychotherapeutic and counselling practice. Sixteen participants (13 male, three female, age range 26-55 years) recruited through donor insemination support networks in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia, were sent semi-structured questionnaires by E-mail and post. Using identity process theory as a framework for understanding participants' accounts, the data were qualitatively analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Participants consistently reported mistrust within the family, negative distinctiveness, lack of genetic continuity, frustration in being thwarted in the search for their biological fathers and a need to talk to a significant other (i.e. someone who would understand). These experiences could be postulated as being indicative of a struggle to assimilate, accommodate and evaluate information about their new identities as donor offspring. Psychotherapists and counsellors need to be aware of these identity issues if they are to meet the needs of donor offspring within therapeutic practice.
Quantifying dispersal from hydrothermal vent fields in the western Pacific Ocean

Significance Submarine hot springs known as hydrothermal vents host unique ecosystems of endemic animals that do not depend on photosynthesis. Quantifying larval dispersal processes is essential to understanding gene flows and diversity distributions of vent endemic species, as well as to protect vent communities from anthropological disturbances (e.g., deep-sea mining). In this study, we assess the potential frequency of larval exchange between vent fields throughout the entire western Pacific via ocean circulation processes, so that population geneticists can make quantitative comparisons. We show that western Pacific vents in distant basins are potentially connected with strong directionality. This article makes a valuable contribution to a difficult and important area of deep ocean processes. Hydrothermal vent fields in the western Pacific Ocean are mostly distributed along spreading centers in submarine basins behind convergent plate boundaries. Larval dispersal resulting from deep-ocean circulations is one of the major factors influencing gene flow, diversity, and distributions of vent animals. By combining a biophysical model and deep-profiling float experiments, we quantify potential larval dispersal of vent species via ocean circulation in the western Pacific Ocean. We demonstrate that vent fields within back-arc basins could be well connected without particular directionality, whereas basin-to-basin dispersal is expected to occur infrequently, once in tens to hundreds of thousands of years, with clear dispersal barriers and directionality associated with ocean currents. The southwest Pacific vent complex, spanning more than 4,000 km, may be connected by the South Equatorial Current for species with a longer-than-average larval development time. Depending on larval dispersal depth, a strong western boundary current, the Kuroshio Current, could bridge vent fields from the Okinawa Trough to the Izu-Bonin Arc, which are 1,200 km apart. Outcomes of this study should help marine ecologists estimate gene flow among vent populations and design optimal marine conservation plans to protect one of the most unusual ecosystems on Earth.
Increased inflammation and altered macrophage chemotactic responses caused by two ultrafine particle types

Background: Ultrafine particles have been hypothesised to be an important contributing factor in the toxicity and adverse health effects of particulate air pollution (PM10) and nanoparticles are used increasingly in industrial processes. Aims: To compare the ability of ultrafine and fine particles of titanium dioxide and carbon black to induce inflammation, cause epithelial injury, and affect the alveolar macrophage clearance functions of phagocytosis and chemotaxis in vivo. Methods: Rats were instilled with fine and ultrafine carbon black and titanium dioxide. Inflammation was quantified by bronchoalveolar lavage; the ability of the macrophages to phagoytose indictor fluorescent beads and to migrate towards aC5a were determined. Results: Ultrafine particles induced more PMN recruitment, epithelial damage, and cytotoxicity than their fine counterparts, exposed at equal mass. Both ultrafine and fine particles significantly impaired the phagocytic ability of alveolar macrophages. Only ultrafine particle treatment significantly enhanced the sensitivity of alveolar macrophages to chemotact towards C5a. Conclusions: Ultrafine particles of two very different materials induced inflammation and epithelial damage to a greater extent than their fine counterparts. In general, the effect of ultrafine carbon black was greater than ultrafine titanium dioxide, suggesting that there are differences in the likely harmfulness of different types of ultrafine particle. Epithelial injury and toxicity were associated with the development of inflammation after exposure to ultrafines. Increased sensitivity to a C5a chemotactic gradient could make the ultrafine exposed macrophages more likely to be retained in the lungs, so allowing dose to accumulate.
Resource recovery from wastewater using forward osmosis membranes

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Randomized algorithms for estimating the trace of an implicit symmetric positive semi-definite matrix

We analyze the convergence of randomized trace estimators. Starting at 1989, several algorithms have been proposed for estimating the trace of a matrix by 1/M∑<sub>i</sub>=1<sup>M</sup> z<sub><i>i</i></sub><sup><i>T</i></sup> <i>Az</i><sub><i>i</i></sub>, where the <i>z</i><sub><i>i</i></sub> are random vectors; different estimators use different distributions for the <i>z</i><sub><i>i</i></sub>s, all of which lead to <i>E</i>(1/M∑<sub><i>i</i></sub>=1<sup><i>M</i></sup> <i>z</i><sub><i>i</i></sub><sup>T</sup> <i>Az</i><sub><i>i</i></sub>) = trace(<i>A</i>). These algorithms are useful in applications in which there is no explicit representation of <i>A</i> but rather an efficient method compute <i>z</i><sup>T</sup><i>Az</i> given <i>z</i>. Existing results only analyze the variance of the different estimators. In contrast, we analyze the number of samples <i>M</i> required to guarantee that with probability at least 1−Δ, the relative error in the estimate is at most &epsis;. We argue that such bounds are much more useful in applications than the variance. We found that these bounds rank the estimators differently than the variance; this suggests that minimum-variance estimators may not be the best. We also make two additional contributions to this area. The first is a specialized bound for projection matrices, whose trace (rank) needs to be computed in electronic structure calculations. The second is a new estimator that uses less randomness than all the existing estimators.
Document Embedding Strategies for Job Title Classification

Automatic and accurate classiﬁcation of items enables numerous downstream applications in many domains. These applications can range from faceted browsing of items to product recommendations and big data analytics. In the online recruitment domain, we refer to classifying job ads to a pre-deﬁned occupation taxonomy as job title classiﬁcation. A large-scale job title classiﬁcation system can power various downstream applications such as query expansion, semantic search, job recommendations and labor market analytics. Such classiﬁcation systems mostly use Bag-of-Words (BOW) model for document representation and consider only the job titles when classifying job ads. However the BOW model lacks the semantic discrimination capability that is needed to accurately classify job ads when they contain multiple aspects of the job such as the job description, job requirements, company overview and other details. In this paper we explore the applicability of recent advances in the word and document embedding space to the problem of job title classiﬁcation. We investigate several document embedding approaches and propose a novel customized document embedding strategy for job title classiﬁcation that addresses the multi-aspect job ad issue. Our experimental results show that incorporating document embedding approaches in a job title classiﬁcation system improves the classiﬁcation accuracy on entire job ads compared to approaches based on the BOW model.
Podocytes of AT2 Receptor Knockout Mice Are Protected from Angiotensin II-Mediated RAGE Induction

Background/Aims: The interaction of ‘advanced glycation end products’ (AGEs) and their receptor ‘RAGE’ plays an important role in diabetic nephropathy. We have previously found that in cultured differentiated podocytes, angiotensin II (ANG II) induces RAGE expression via an AT2 receptor-mediated pathway. Methods: To further confirm our results in an in vivo study, AT2 receptor knockout mice (AT2–/–) and wild-type mice were infused with ANG II by osmotic minipumps for 14 days. Results: As shown by immunohistochemistry, ANG II treatment of wild-type animals (C57BL6) allowed a significantly increased RAGE expression in renal podocytes in comparison to sham-operated C57BL6 mice. In contrast, RAGE expression in podocytes of ANG II-treated knockout mice (AT2–/–) was only moderately higher than in control animals, but significantly lower than in ANG II-treated wild-type mice. For the AGE species NΕ-carboxymethyllysine, a similar immunohistochemical staining pattern was found. There was no significant change in glomerular AT1a receptor expression. However, no difference in RAGE mRNA expression could be found between ANG II-infused wild-type and AT2–/– animals by real-time PCR using whole kidney mRNA, presumably due to the low abundance of podocyte mRNA in these preparations. No effects were seen on glomerular apoptosis. Conclusion: These data support the fact that ANG II-mediated RAGE induction in podocytes occurs via AT2 receptors. The present findings may suggest that not all ANG II-mediated changes in diabetic nephropathy can be treated with AT1 receptor blockers.