Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Functional Compartmentation of Endothelial P2Y Receptor Signaling

Abstract— The presence of multiple receptors for disparate nucleotides on endothelial cells makes it unclear how the endothelium differentiates among these signals. We propose that endothelial P2Y receptors are organized into cholesterol-rich signaling domains, such as caveolae and respond to nucleotide agonists by mobilizing intracellular calcium. Treatment of endothelial cells with 5 mmol/L &bgr;-methyl-cyclodextrin prevents calcium release in response to the nucleotide receptor agonists 2-methylthio-ATP, ATP, ADP, and UTP, but not the kinin receptor agonist bradykinin, suggesting that depletion of membrane cholesterol disrupts signaling at P2Y receptors and that bradykinin receptors are not prelocalized to cholesterol microdomains in these cells. Direct measurement of cholesterol content after &bgr;-methyl-cyclodextrin treatment of aortic rings reveals a concentration-dependent depletion of cholesterol that parallels functional antagonism of P2Y-mediated relaxation. Nucleotide- and bradykinin-mediated relaxation is disrupted by 5 to 15 mmol/L &bgr; -methyl-cyclodextrin treatment or 1 to 10 &mgr;g/mL filipin III in a concentration-dependent fashion. Norepinephrine contracted aorta treated with A23187 relaxes in an endothelium-dependent fashion despite depletion of 84% of membrane-extractable cholesterol. These data indicate that in the basal state, P2Y receptors but not the kinin receptor may be compartmented to cholesterol-dependent signaling domains in guinea pig endothelium and that cholesterol-rich microdomains in these cells can respond to intracellular calcium in an agonist-specific manner. We suggest that the functional organization of cholesterol-rich signaling microdomains allows agonist-specific responses to increases in intracellular calcium and that this property may be a general phenomenon that permits cells to respond disparately to agonists that may signal through common calcium release pathways.
Store-Operated Ca2+ Influx and Expression of TRPC Genes in Mouse Sinoatrial Node

Store-operated Ca2+ entry was investigated in isolated mouse sinoatrial nodes (SAN) dissected from right atria and loaded with Ca2+ indicators. Incubation of the SAN in Ca2+-free solution caused a substantial decrease in resting intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and stopped pacemaker activity. Reintroduction of Ca2+ in the presence of cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), a sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump inhibitor, led to sustained elevation of [Ca2+]i, a characteristic of store-operated Ca2+ channel (SOCC) activity. Two SOCC antagonists, Gd3+ and SKF-96365, inhibited 72±8% and 65±8% of this Ca2+ influx, respectively. SKF-96365 also reduced the spontaneous pacemaker rate to 27±4% of control in the presence of CPA. Because members of the transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) gene family may encode SOCCs, we used RT-PCR to examine mRNA expression of the 7 known mammalian TRPC isoforms. Transcripts for TRPC1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 7, but not TRPC5, were detected. Immunohistochemistry using anti-TRPC1, 3, 4, and 6 antibodies revealed positive labeling in the SAN region and single pacemaker cells. These results indicate that mouse SAN exhibits store-operated Ca2+ activity which may be attributable to TRPC expression, and suggest that SOCCs may be involved in regulating pacemaker firing rate.
Post-transplantation nephroptosis causing recurrent episodes of acute renal failure and hypertension secondary to intermittent vascular torsion of intraperitoneal renal allograft

Abstract Nephroptosis is a rare complication in renal transplantation, but one with significant associated risk. Due to non-specific clinical features, there may be a substantial delay in diagnosis and loss of the transplanted kidney due to renal pedicle thrombosis. We present a case of post-transplantation nephroptosis after simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplant, which resulted in accelerated hypertension and reversible acute kidney injury >1 year after transplantation. Prompt detection of this rare entity leading to expeditious surgical intervention is necessary to preserve viability of the renal allograft.
Influences of the Structure Parameters on Sensitivity and Brownian Noise of the Disk Resonator Gyroscope

This paper presents a comprehensive investigation of the influences of the structure parameters on the sensitivity and Brownian noise of the disk resonator gyroscope (DRG). The mechanical sensitivity, transducer sensitivity, Brownian displacement, and Brownian noise floor of the DRG with varying structural parameters (including ring number, resonator diameter, structure height, and anchor size) are calculated based on the finite-element method (COMSOL Multiphysics). Each parameter is studied independently. Meanwhile, useful comparison between the DRG and the ring vibratory gyroscope is made, which indicates that the DRG has great advantages over the transducer sensitivity and Brownian noise. Last but not least, a multi-objective optimization method is used to design the ring thickness distribution of the DRG and an instructive ring thickness distribution designing rule is obtained. The preceding study can give an explicit guideline for designing all kinds of DRG and may also provide useful information for designing other micro gyroscopes. The multi-objective optimization method could be expanded to include other objectives, constraints, or variables relevant to all kinds of gyroscopes or other microelectromechanical systems devices. [2016-0136]
Options for a National Framework for Benefit Distribution and Their Relation to Community-Based and National REDD+ Monitoring

Monitoring is a central element in the implementation of national REDD+ and may be essential in providing the data needed to support benefit distribution. We discuss the options for benefit sharing systems in terms of technical feasibility and political acceptability in respect of equity considerations, and the kind of data that would be needed for the different options. We contrast output-based distribution systems, in which rewards are distributed according to performance measured in terms of carbon impacts, with input-based systems in which performance is measured in term of compliance with prescribed REDD+ activities. Output-based systems, which would require regular community carbon inventories to produce Tier 3 data locally, face various challenges particularly for the case of assessing avoided deforestation, and they may not be perceived as equitable. Input-based systems would require data on activities undertaken rather than change in stocks; this information could come from community-acquired data. We also consider how community monitored data could support national forest monitoring systems and the further development of national REDD+.
Modulation of Presynaptic Plasticity and Learning by the H-ras/Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase/Synapsin I Signaling Pathway

Molecular and cellular studies of the mechanisms underlying mammalian learning and memory have focused almost exclusively on postsynaptic function. We now reveal an experience-dependent presynaptic mechanism that modulates learning and synaptic plasticity in mice. Consistent with a presynaptic function for endogenous H-ras/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling, we observed that, under normal physiologic conditions in wild-type mice, hippocampus-dependent learning stimulated the ERK-dependent phosphorylation of synapsin I, and MEK (MAP kinase kinase)/ERK inhibition selectively decreased the frequency of miniature EPSCs. By generating transgenic mice expressing a constitutively active form of H-ras (H-rasG12V), which is abundantly localized in axon terminals, we were able to increase the ERK-dependent phosphorylation of synapsin I. This resulted in several presynaptic changes, including a higher density of docked neurotransmitter vesicles in glutamatergic terminals, an increased frequency of miniature EPSCs, and increased paired-pulse facilitation. In addition, we observed facilitated neurotransmitter release selectively during high-frequency activity with consequent increases in long-term potentiation. Moreover, these mice showed dramatic enhancements in hippocampus-dependent learning. Importantly, deletion of synapsin I, an exclusively presynaptic protein, blocked the enhancements of learning, presynaptic plasticity, and long-term potentiation. Together with previous invertebrate studies, these results demonstrate that presynaptic plasticity represents an important evolutionarily conserved mechanism for modulating learning and memory.
The Estimation of First-Phase Insulin Secretion by Using Components of the Metabolic Syndrome in a Chinese Population

Aims. There are two phases of insulin secretion, the first (FPIS) and second phase (SPIS). In this study, we built equations to predict FPIS with metabolic syndrome (MetS) components and fasting plasma insulin (FPI). Methods. Totally, 186 participants were enrolled. 75% of participants were randomly selected as the study group to build equations. The remaining 25% of participants were selected as the external validation group. All participants received a frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test, and acute insulin response after the glucose load (AIRg) was obtained. The AIRg was considered as FPIS. Results. When MetS components were only used, the following equation was built: log (FPIS) = 1.477 − 0.119 × fasting plasma glucose (FPG) + 0.079 × body mass index (BMI) − 0.523 × high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). After FPI was added, the second equation was formulated: log (FPIS) = 1.532 − 0.127 × FPG + 0.059 × BMI - 0.511 × HDL-C + 0.375 × log (FPI), which provided a better accuracy than the first one. Conclusions. Using MetS components, the FPIS could be estimated accurately. After adding FPI into the equation, the predictive power increased further. We hope that these equations could be widely used in daily practice.
Design-time Quantification of Integrity in Cyber-physical Systems

In a software system it is possible to quantify the amount of information that is leaked or corrupted by analysing the flows of information present in the source code. In a cyber-physical system, information flows are not only present at the digital level but also at a physical level, and they are also present to and fro the two levels. In this work, we provide a methodology to formally analyse a composite, cyber-physical system model (combining physics and control) using an information flow-theoretic approach. We use this approach to quantify the level of vulnerability of a system with respect to attackers with different capabilities. We illustrate our approach by means of a water distribution case study.
Parent feeding behavior and child appetite: associations depend on feeding style.

OBJECTIVE Eating behavior traits measured in early life predict eating behavior and weight trajectories later in development, and may be associated with certain parental feeding behaviors. Our goal was to investigate the relationship between a range of feeding behaviors, and preschoolers' appetitive traits. METHOD Four hundred thirty-nine parents of UK 3-5 year olds completed scales measuring authoritarian vs. authoritative forms of limiting (Restriction vs. Monitoring) and promoting (Pressuring vs. Prompting) intake, as well as Emotional and Instrumental Feeding. Parents also completed scales measuring child Food responsiveness and Satiety responsiveness. Child BMI z-scores were calculated based on measured heights and weights. RESULTS Parental Restriction was significantly associated with greater child Food responsiveness (p < .001), but parental Monitoring was not. Parental Pressuring was significantly associated with greater child Satiety responsiveness (p < .001), while parental Prompting was not. Parental Instrumental and Emotional feeding were both associated with greater child Food responsiveness (p < .001). All relationships were independent of child BMI z-score. DISCUSSION Prospective data are needed to determine whether the parent-child feeding relationships identified here promote, or protect against, the development of eating pathology in children. However, our results suggest that cross-sectional associations depend on the style (e.g., authoritarian vs. authoritative), as well as the type of feeding behavior measured.
Brain-computer music interface for composition and performance

This paper introduces a new brain-computer interface (BCI) system that uses electroencephalogram (EEG) information to steer generative rules to compose and perform music. It starts by noting the various attempts at the design of BCI systems, including systems for music. Then it presents a short technical introduction to EEG sensing and analysis. Next, it introduces the generative music component of the system, which employs our own adapted version of a machine-learning technique based on ATNs (Augmented Transition Networks) for the computer-replication of musical styles. The system constantly monitors the EEG of the subject and activates generative rules associated with the activity of different frequency bands of the spectrum of the EEG signal. The system also measures the complexity of the EEG signal to modulate the tempo (beat) and dynamics (loudness) of the performance. Subjects can be trained to select between different classes of generative rules to produce original pieces of music.
Visual perceptual functions predict instrumental activities of daily living in patients with dementia.

OBJECTIVE To assess relations between discrete visual perceptual functions commonly affected in patients with neurodegenerative dementia and the performance of instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). BACKGROUND Neuropsychologic measures are often used to predict IADL performances in dementia patients. Prior studies have focused on the contribution of higher-level memory and executive deficits to IADL. The relation between visuoperceptual dysfunction and IADL has not been studied systematically. METHODS Thirty-five elderly patients with neurodegenerative disorders, most diagnosed with probable Alzheimer disease, participated. Patients completed tasks tapping visual perceptual functions believed to be mediated by occipital lobe structures (shape discrimination), posterior inferotemporal regions (face, object form, and written word discrimination), and the dorsolateral parietal lobe (spatial localization). A knowledgeable caregiver rated IADL performance. RESULTS Object form discrimination, but not other visual perceptual functions, correlated significantly ( = 0.60) with performances of visually based IADL (e.g., misjudging distances, driving, and recognizing familiar people), but not with other IADL, when the variance attributable to dementia severity, language disturbance, and other visual perceptual abilities was controlled. CONCLUSIONS In contrast to prior investigations that have focused primarily on relations of memory and executive control deficits with IADL in neurologically impaired patients, the results of this study highlight the important contribution of bilateral inferotemporal visual perceptual systems for the performance of IADL in elderly patients with neurodegenerative dementia.
Camouflage and visual perception

How does an animal conceal itself from visual detection by other animals? This review paper seeks to identify general principles that may apply in this broad area. It considers mechanisms of visual encoding, of grouping and object encoding, and of search. In most cases, the evidence base comes from studies of humans or species whose vision approximates to that of humans. The effort is hampered by a relatively sparse literature on visual function in natural environments and with complex foraging tasks. However, some general constraints emerge as being potentially powerful principles in understanding concealment—a ‘constraint’ here means a set of simplifying assumptions. Strategies that disrupt the unambiguous encoding of discontinuities of intensity (edges), and of other key visual attributes, such as motion, are key here. Similar strategies may also defeat grouping and object-encoding mechanisms. Finally, the paper considers how we may understand the processes of search for complex targets in complex scenes. The aim is to provide a number of pointers towards issues, which may be of assistance in understanding camouflage and concealment, particularly with reference to how visual systems can detect the shape of complex, concealed objects.
In Vivo Evidence for P‐Glycoprotein–Mediated Transport of Phenytoin at the Blood–Brain Barrier of Rats

Summary: Purpose: The multidrug transporter P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) is expressed at high levels in a variety of tissues such as the endothelial cells of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) capillaries, where it is thought to be involved in the exclusion of various drugs from the capillary endothelial cells, blocking their entry into brain. It was previously shown that pharmacoresistant partial epilepsy is associated with an increased expression of P‐gp in brain capillary endothelium and astrocytes, leading to the hypothesis that increased P‐gp expression may be involved in medically intractable epilepsy. However, it is not known whether the distribution of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) into the brain is limited by P‐gp. We used in vivo microdialysis in freely moving rats to study whether the concentration of the major AED phenytoin (PHT) in the extra‐cellular fluid (ECF) of the cerebral cortex can be enhanced by inhibition of P‐gp.
Molecular Analysis of the Interaction of Bordetella pertussis Adenylyl Cyclase with Fluorescent Nucleotides

The calmodulin (CaM)-dependent adenylyl cyclase (AC) toxin from Bordetella pertussis (CyaA) substantially contributes to the pathogenesis of whooping cough. Thus, potent and selective CyaA inhibitors may be valuable drugs for prophylaxis of this disease. We examined the interactions of fluorescent 2′,3′-N-methylanthraniloyl (MANT)-, anthraniloyl- and trinitrophenyl (TNP)-substituted nucleotides with CyaA. Compared with mammalian AC isoforms and Bacillus anthracis AC toxin edema factor, nucleotides inhibited catalysis by CyaA less potently. Introduction of the MANT substituent resulted in 5- to 170-fold increased potency of nucleotides. Ki values of 3′MANT-2′d-ATP and 2′MANT-3′d-ATP in the AC activity assay using Mn2+ were 220 and 340 nM, respectively. Natural nucleoside 5′-triphosphates, guanine-, hypoxanthine- and pyrimidine-MANT- and TNP nucleotides and di-MANT nucleotides inhibited CyaA, too. MANT nucleotide binding to CyaA generated fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) from tryptophans Trp69 and Trp242 and multiple tyrosine residues, yielding Kd values of 300 nM for 3′MANT-2′d-ATP and 400 nM for 2′MANT-3′d-ATP. Fluorescence experiments and docking approaches indicate that the MANT- and TNP groups interact with Phe306. Increases of FRET and direct fluorescence with MANT nucleotides were strictly CaM-dependent, whereas TNP nucleotide fluorescence upon binding to CyaA increased in the absence of CaM and was actually reduced by CaM. In contrast to low-affinity MANT nucleotides, even low-affinity TNP nucleotides generated strong fluorescence increases upon binding to CyaA. We conclude that the catalytic site of CyaA possesses substantial conformational freedom to accommodate structurally diverse ligands and that certain ligands bind to CyaA even in the absence of CaM, facilitating future inhibitor design.
Wildlife Biologist Scott Snedaker Fisheries Biologist Wedge Watkins Wildlife Biologist Scott Senter Outdoor Recreation Planner Bill Lindsey Range Management Specialist Lou Whiteaker Botanist Charles Hicks Environmental Coordinator

Approved by: _"",ge=: ~"""""(,("""" ""'-. The following nomination of the Fourmile Creek property as an area of critical environmental concern (ACEC) by resource area staff is based on resource area expertise and biological information and comments from the U. staff reports on the various resources on the Fourmile Creek property were prepared by specialists from the Klamath Falls Resource Area, Lakeview District, Bureau of Land Management during the summer of 2000.
Bounds on the Quantum Satisfiability Threshold

Quantum k-SAT is the problem of deciding whether there is a n-qubit state which is perpendicular to a set of vectors, each of which lies in the Hilbert space of k qubits. Equivalently, the problem is to decide whether a particular type of local Hamiltonian has a ground state with zero energy. We consider random quantum k-SAT formulas with n variables and m = \alpha n clauses, and ask at what value of \alpha these formulas cease to be satisfiable. We show that the threshold for random quantum 3-SAT is at most 3.594. For comparison, convincing arguments from statistical physics suggest that the classical 3-SAT threshold is \alpha \approx 4.267. For larger k, we show that the quantum threshold is a constant factor smaller than the classical one. Our bounds work by determining the generic rank of the satisfying subspace for certain gadgets, and then using the technique of differential equations to analyze various algorithms that partition the hypergraph into a collection of these gadgets. Our use of differential equation to establish upper bounds on a satisfiability threshold appears to be novel, and our techniques may apply to various classical problems as well.
Effect of infant temperament on the weight of preschool children: a systematic review

Background: Temperament is a variable that has recently been shown to be of interest as a risk factor for childhood obesity. Some studies indicate that difficult temperament is associated with weight gain in preschoolers. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to analyze the available literature on the association between the child's temperament and the BMI of the preschool child. Methods: We did a review of the literature about studies evaluating the association amoung temperament and body mass index in the preschool child. The search was carried since May to June of 2016 in databases such as Pubmed, EBSCO Host, Ovid, Springer Link and academic google. We included studies that had not more than 10 years of published and that complied criteria for inclusion, in addition the results of the studies had quality in the methodology and results, as reference for the evaluation of the studies, we used The Critical Apprasisal Skills Program English. Results: We found 784 articles, of which only nine were included for this review, six of the studies evaluated temperament based on attentional reactivity and / or traits, three evaluated temperament based on self-regulation of the child and only one Evaluated both emotional reactivity and selfregulation. It seems that negative reactivity and low self-regulation are factors associated with childhood obesity in the preschool age. Conclusions: The literature suggests that more research is needed to determine the temperament behavior around obesity in children.