Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Proliferation and Differentiation of Human Osteoblasts within 3D printed Poly-Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid Scaffolds

Bone repair and regeneration can be enhanced through implantation of biocompatible and biodegradable scaffolds, which serve primarily as osteoconductive moieties. In this study, the mechanical properties and microenviroment of 3D printed poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) scaffolds are examined. Additionally, the proliferation and differentiation of human fetal osteoblasts are evaluated after 3 weeks of in vitro culture on the scaffolds. The results showed that the PLGA scaffolds examined had mechanical properties similar to that of trabecular bone, but was still much weaker compared to cortical bone. In addition to general porosity, the PLGA scaffolds also had micropores within macropore walls. Cultured human osteoblasts could proliferate upon seeding on the PLGA scaffolds. Alkaline phosphatase activity and osteonectin expression of the osteoblasts cultured on the PLGA scaffolds remained stable over three weeks, whilst expression of collagen type I and osteopontin decreased. The alkaline phosphatase activity of osteoblasts cultured on PLGA scaffolds is comparable with that from two commercially-available scaffolds — OPLA and collagen scaffolds (Becton—Dickinson (BD) Inc., Franklin Lakes, NJ, USA). Hence, the results suggested that the PLGA scaffolds examined are conducive for promoting osteogenesis.
Underwater Target Tracking Using Signal Subspace TDOA and Differential Doppler

This paper presents results of an analysis of transient data reception by a field of distributed sensors. In previous work,1 we described a method for measuring time difference of arrival (TDOA) based on signal subspace methods and compared that to TDOA measurements based on generalized cross correlations. Results of TDOA estimation were compared and demonstrated through application to data from a simulated range-dependent environment similar to that found in regions of continental shelf breaks.
Possible importance of macrophage-derived mediators in acute malaria

Tumor necrosis factor, lymphocyte-activating factor, and enhanced levels of type I interferon were found in serum samples taken 2 h after mice infected with Plasmodium vinckei subsp. petteri received a small intravenous injection of endotoxin. These three mediators are among those released when mice receive an endotoxin injection 2 weeks after Mycobacterium bovis BCG or Corynebacterium parvum have been administered. There is indirect evidence that this wider range of mediators is also released in P. vinckei subsp. petteri-infected mice given parenteral endotoxin. A recent report that endotoxin is detectable in the plasma of malaria-infected mice and children implies that these mediators may also be released in the acute phase of the natural infection. We propose that these macrophage-derived mediators may be important in the glucocorticoid antagonism, bone marrow depression, fever, hypergammaglobulinemia, splenomegaly, elevation of serum amyloid A, consumptive coagulopathy, and shock syndrome with associated organ damage which can accompany malaria. The intraerythrocytic parasite death seen at crisis in some malarias, as well as the subsequent development of specific protective immunity, may also depend on these mediators.
Output feedback stabilization for MIMO networked control systems with Markovian switching

This paper is concerned with the stability analysis and controller design for a class of MIMO networked control systems (NCSs) with markovian characterization. In view of MIMO NCSs where network is of limited access channels, a discrete-time Markovian delay model is formulated. By constructing a novel stochastic Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional, a new stability criterion is developed in terms of linear matrix inequalities(LMIs). On the basis of the obtained stability condition, a static output feedback controller is designed by applying an iterative algorithm. A numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed design method.
The respiratory time and flow profile at volitional exercise termination

Abstract In this study, we examine the effect of exercise on the time and flow characteristics of the respiratory cycle profile at the point of volitional exercise termination. Eight males (mean age 29 years, s = 10; body mass 74 kg, s = 7; height 1.75 m, s = 0.04) undertook a cycle test to volitional exhaustion on a cycle ergometer, which allowed peak oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O2peak) to be measured (mean 51 ml · kg−1 · min−1, s = 7). At a later date, two sub-maximal tests to volitional exhaustion were completed in a random order at 76% (s = 6) and 86%[Vdot]O2peak (s = 7). As expected, the magnitude of the respiratory flow and time characteristics varied with the three exercise intensities, as did the point of exercise termination and terminal ventilation rates, which varied from 7 to 27 min and 112 to 132 litres · min−1 respectively. More importantly, however, at exercise termination some of the characteristics were similar, particularly the breathing frequency (at termination 49 breaths · min−1), the ratio between inspiration and total breath time (0.5), and the later occurrence of peak inspiratory flow (0.24 – 0.48 s). The coincident unity of these time and flow profile characteristics at exercise termination illustrates how the integration of timing and flow during breathing influence exercise capacity in non-elite athletes.
A variable structure pantograph mechanism for comprehensive upper extremity haptic movement training

Numerous haptic devices have been developed for neurorehabilitation of upper extremities, but their wide-spread use has been largely impeded for reasons of complexity and cost. In this paper we describe a variable structure pantograph mechanism that produces a versatile rehabilitation robot for movement training of the shoulder, elbow, and wrist. The device has three operational modes: ARM, REACH and WRIST. The performance of the mechanism, driven by series elastic actuators, is similar in all three operational modes while using a single control scheme and set of gains. This means a single device with minimal setup changes can be used to treat a variety of upper limb impairments following stroke, traumatic brain injury, or other direct trauma to the arm.
A Comparison of Synergeyes Versus Traditional Rigid Gas Permeable Lens Designs for Patients With Irregular Corneas

Objectives. To compare whether patients with irregular corneas are more comfortable wearing Synergeyes, a hybrid contact lens, compared with rigid gas permeable contact lenses. Methods. A retrospective chart review of patients seen from the specialty contact lens practice at the University of Pittsburgh, who were refit with hybrid lenses from November 2005 to December 2006. Inclusion criteria included presence of irregular astigmatism in at least one eye from any cause, prior use of rigid gas-permeable lenses within the past year in at least one eye, lens tolerance issues, and all day use of contacts to attain functional vision. Best corrected spectacle and hybrid lens corrected Snellen acuities, the number of lenses needed to complete the fitting, lens related complications, and whether patients preferred the Synergeyes or rigid lens after at least 3 months of follow-up were used as the variables to compare the safety and efficacy between the two lens modalities. Results. Seventy-nine eyes of 54 patients met criteria for inclusion. The average improvement over spectacle acuity was four Snellen lines with the Synergeyes lens. The average number of lenses required to successful fitting was 1.71. On review of patient opinions in follow-up, 79.5% of patients reported comfort was improved compared with rigid lenses, 13.5% said comfort was not better or the same, and 7% believed they were less comfortable. Conclusions. In this population, the Synergeyes lens resulted in increased lens tolerability for many patients wearing therapeutic contacts. Patients who are otherwise unable to tolerate rigid gas permeable contacts should attempt use of a hybrid lens before resorting to penetrating keratoplasty.
Small-signal modeling and stability analysis of DC microgrid with multiple type of loads

DC microgrid is an efficient solution for integration of multiple Distributed Generations (DGs) and loads. The stability of DC system can be influenced by different kinds of loads. In this paper, the small signal model is established for DC microgrid with multi-type of loads. Lyapunov Stability Theory is applied to investigate the dynamic stability of DC microgrid. Traces of eigenvalues demonstrate that high portion of Constant Power Loads (CPL) may bring negative effect to DC microgrid while Constant Current Loads (CCL) has little influence.
Managing Equinus in a Child with Cerebral Palsy: Merits of Hinged Ankle‐Foot Orthoses

A comparison of hinged versus solid ankle orthoses in a child with moderate spastic diplegia demonstrated that solid ankle braces blocked needed foot and ankle mobility. The loss of movement forced the child to use extraneous movement patterns in order to move the upper body over the foot. These iatrogenically induced deviations were considered reasons for surgery. When ankle and foot mobility were increased by the use of hinged ankle braces, the gait improved and with physical therapy the reasons for surgery were removed. This case study shows that significant biomechanical changes can be achieved by simply switching from solid to articulated or hinged ankle‐foot orthoses.
Nuclear domain 10 (ND10) associated proteins are also present in nuclear bodies and redistribute to hundreds of nuclear sites after stress

The promyelocytic leukemia protien fused to the retinoic acid receptor in t(15;17) acute promyelocytic leukemia, the primary biliary cirrhosis autoantigen, Sp100, as well as the incompletely charterized protien NDP55, are co‐localized in specific immunohistochemically defined nuclear domains (ND10), which are potential equyivalents of ultrastructurally defined nuclear bodies. We investigated whether the distribution of these proteins depends on environmental conditions and whether ND10 correlate with nuclear bodies. Certain nuclear bodies and ND10 react in a similar bodies, which herpes simplex virus infection or heat shock modify both. Redistribution of ND10‐associated proteins to hundreds of small sites throughout the chromatin was inducible by stress in the form of heat shock and exposure to Cd++ ions. The change of distribution was rapid and independent of proteins synthesis, and thus not part of the classical heat shock response. The very rapid redistribution of these proteins after heat shock, together with the development of ND10 upon interferon actication, raises the possibility that ND10 represent storage sites of certain matrix proteins readily accessible throughout the chromatin in response to stress or other effectors that induce global nuclear changes. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Research on relationship of Property Rights,Free Trade and Effective Protection of Forest Resources——And discuss on amendments of Forest Law of the People's Republic

The current system of forest resource ownership and mode of operation leads to two consequences:firstly,the separation of owners and managers,owner managers lack awareness of care for immediate benefits,resulting in the destruction of forest resources.Secondly,the existing subject to many limitations of forest ownership,and increased the cost of exercise of rights and transfer of rights.Theory of property rights and transaction analysis concluded:to make the effective protection of forest resources,amendments in the law should first consider the process of clarifying the ownership of forest resources and reduce the restrictions on the right,then to consider reducing the transaction costs of forest ownership.The property rights model not only can meet the demands of economic interests of mangers,but also can effectively protect the forest resources.
Experience With and Attitudes Toward Psychotherapy and Antidepressants Among Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: An Online Patient Survey to Inform System Design

This study aimed to explore and compare experiences with and attitudes toward psychotherapy and antidepressants of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGiDs). Patients from gastroenterology clinic databases were invited to an online survey. Student's t test, Mann–Whitney U test, chi-square test, and Fisher's test were used to compare patients with IBD and FGiD on demographics and variables of interest. Of 86 participants, 56 (65%) had IBD and 30 (35%) had FGiDs. Mean levels of anxiety, depressive, and stress symptoms were within the moderate to severe range. Psychological care and antidepressants were offered to significantly more FGiD than to IBD respondents (37% vs. 9%; p = .009). Although the symptoms were generally reduced after the prescription of antidepressants, only 30% of IBD respondents and 21% of FGiD respondents using antidepressants would recommend them to others. In contrast, 53% of IBD respondents and 69% of FGiD respondents who used psychotherapy would recommend it to others. Both these therapies were valued by recipients; however, neither was reported to improve gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. Given the high desire for and positive experiences of psychological care for these 2 common GI conditions, access to formal psychological support services within GI clinics would appear to be the most efficient model.
Human security for Mongolian herders: evolving risks and opportunities

The Arctic region shares a number of socio-cultural and ecological parallels with Mongolia. Reliance on traditional livelihoods, fast paced changes to the natural climate, conflict with existing industries such as tourism, a rapid mining boom, and remote and sparse population centers are only some of the similarities underlining the Arctic and Mongolian contexts. This chapter applies the lens of human security to unpack tensions underlying Mongolia's development. It provides a robust understanding of how these tensions interact with one another to infiltrate socio-economic and environmental insecurity amongst Mongolia's traditionally pastoralist communities. The chapter argues that Mongolia's ongoing experience in navigating human security risks and opportunities may provide useful pointers to northern Indigenous peoples, including those from the Arctic. To that extent, the chapter highlights a number of important take-home messages that may: (a) not only help pro-actively counter some of the challenges that the Indigenous people of the North may increasingly experience in relation to societal security, but also (b) help build their capacity over the long-term to preserve their cultural and ecological identities.
Evolution of Joint-Level Control for Quadrupedal Locomotion

We investigate a hierarchical approach to robot control inspired by joint-level control in animals. The method combines a high-level controller, consisting of an artificial neural network (ANN), with joint-level controllers based on digital muscles. In the digital muscle model (DMM), morphological and control aspects of joints evolve concurrently, emulating the musculoskeletal system of natural organisms. We introduce and compare different approaches for connecting outputs of the ANN to DMM-based joints. We also compare the performance of evolved animats with ANN-DMM controllers with those governed by only high-level (ANN-only) and low-level (DMM-only) controllers. These results show that DMM-based systems outperform their ANN-only counterparts while also exhibiting less complex ANNs in terms of the number of connections and neurons. The main contribution of this work is to explore the evolution of artificial systems where, as in natural organisms, some aspects of control are realized at the joint level.
An evaluation of the influence of haptic feedback on gaze behavior during in-car interaction with touch screens

A major motivation for the introduction of haptic feedback in in-vehicle touch screens is the reduction of the eyes-off-road time. This paper presents a study which compares different feedback conditions for touch screen interaction: (1) visual feedback, (2) combined visual-haptic feedback, and (3) haptic feedback only. Subjects had to select target buttons on a touch screen during simulated driving. Our results show that haptic feedback significantly reduces the eyes-off-road time and the subjectively perceived workload. When visual content is available, gazes on the touch screen are more frequent than necessary. And even in the absence of visual content, complete eyes-free interaction was only occasionally spotted, and subjects still looked at the screen initially. We assume that this is due to the necessity of an initial reference position.
Fatigue Reduction by Sequential Stimulation of Multiple Motor Points in a Muscle

The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal method of stimulating multiple motor points in a muscle in an attempt to improve fatigue resistance. The long head of triceps, which has 2 to 3 motor points, in an adult New Zealand white rabbit was used as the muscle model. The fatigue index, defined as the percentage of maximum force at time t, was compared during the fatigue tests. Five test groups were defined based on the stimulation pattern of the muscle: (1) Group Al: The proximal motor point was stimulated at 20 Hz; (2) Group A2: The distal motor point was stimulated at 20 Hz; (3) Group B: Both motor points were stimulated simultaneously at 20 Hz; (4) Group C: Both proximal and distal motor points were stimulated at alternate intervals of 10 seconds at 20 Hz; and (5) Group D: Both motor points were stimulated sequentially at 10 Hz. Each test was conducted for 6 minutes. In sequential stimulation (Group D), the fatigue index was significantly higher when compared with theother test groups at Minutes 4, 5, and 6. In groups Al, A2, B, and C, there were no significant differences in the fatigue indices. For optimal control of muscle contraction in functional electrical stimulation, electrodes should be inserted into all motor points for a given muscle. Sequential stimulation of these points can improve fatigue resistance.
EFFECTIVENESS OF ACUPUNCTURE FOR THE TREATMENT OF CHRONIC DAILY HEADACHE : A SHAM-CONTROLLED CLINICAL TRIAL

Objectives: Acupuncture is a traditional method for the treatment of many pain conditions, but the effectiveness of acupuncture remains controversial on chronic daily headache (CDH). We evaluated the efficacy of real acupuncture (RA) at CDH compared with sham acupuncture (SA). Method: The patients with CDH were selected from a Neurology Department of University Hospital. A total of 56 patients with CDH were randomly assigned to two treatment groups. RA (n=34) and SA (n=22) groups were enrolled. The acupuncture treatment was terminated after 3 months. Results: We found significant differences when compared visual analog scale (VAS) scores after first and third month of treatment in RA and SA groups (p=0.007, p=0.021, respectively). The headache intensity was lower in RA group than SA group. The frequency of headache decreased in both groups. There was significant difference between the RA and SA groups for mean monthly number of headaches after first and third month of treatment (p=0.001, p=0.002, respectively). The effectiveness of acupuncture treatment was 69% in the RA group and 29% in the SA group. Conclusion: Our study confirmed that both the acupuncture and SA might be a beneficial and effective treatment for the CDH. However, the real acupuncture induced more effect on modulating intensity and duration of headache than in sham acupuncture.
Nanofiber formation of amphiphilic cyclic tri‐β‐peptide

A novel amphiphilic cyclic peptide composed of two β‐glucosamino acids and one trans‐2‐aminocyclohexylcarboxylic acid was synthesized and investigated on assembly formation. The cyclic tri‐β‐peptide was self‐assembled into rodlike crystals or nanofibers depending on preparative conditions. The rodlike crystals showed a layer spacing of 4.8 Å along the long axis, and columnar spacings of 10.8 and 21.5 Å by electron diffraction analysis along the short axis. The former confirms the columnar structure upon molecular stacking, and the latter indicates triple bundle formation of the columnar assemblies. Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) measurement of the fibrous assembly showed formation of homogeneous hydrogen bonds among amide groups, also supporting the molecular stacking of cyclic β‐peptides. Straight nanofibers with uniform diameter were also uniquely obtained. Copyright © 2010 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High-Throughput Synthesis of Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks and Application to CO2 Capture

A high-throughput protocol was developed for the synthesis of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs). Twenty-five different ZIF crystals were synthesized from only 9600 microreactions of either zinc(II)/cobalt(II) and imidazolate/imidazolate-type linkers. All of the ZIF structures have tetrahedral frameworks: 10 of which have two different links (heterolinks), 16 of which are previously unobserved compositions and structures, and 5 of which have topologies as yet unobserved in zeolites. Members of a selection of these ZIFs (termed ZIF-68, ZIF-69, and ZIF-70) have high thermal stability (up to 390°C) and chemical stability in refluxing organic and aqueous media. Their frameworks have high porosity (with surface areas up to 1970 square meters per gram), and they exhibit unusual selectivity for CO2 capture from CO2/CO mixtures and extraordinary capacity for storing CO2: 1 liter of ZIF-69 can hold ∼83 liters of CO2 at 273 kelvin under ambient pressure.
Reproductive Behavior, Endocrine State, and the Distribution of GnRH-like Immunoreactive Mast Cells in Dove Brain

Previous studies indicate that there is an increase in the number of detectable mast cells expressing gonadotropin-releasing hormone-like immunoreactivity (GnRH-ir) in the medial habenular region of the brain in ring doves after a period of 2 hr of courtship. In the present experiment the overall distribution of GnRH-ir mast cells in the brain is described, and the influence of behavioral and endocrine state on brain mast cell distribution and detectable mast cell number is explored. Four groups of male birds were studied: (1) paired with a female and displaying courtship behavior, (2) paired with a squab and displaying aggressive behavior, (3) visually isolated from other doves, and (4) long-term castrates housed communally. In all four groups, GnRH-ir mast cells were observed in the following areas: the medial habenula, circumventricular organs, organum vasculosum lamina terminalis and organum subseptale, the pia mater, and blood vessels. Cell counting revealed differences among groups in numbers of habenular mast cells. Courted doves had the most habenular mast cells, followed by doves paired with squabs, and then visually isolated doves, while castrates had the fewest. One-way ANOVA indicates significant differences among groups. All pairwise comparisons show that the courting animals had significantly more detectable mast cells in the habenular area than did visually isolated and castrated groups. These results suggest that the appearance and/or detectability of GnRH-ir mast cells in the habenula is related to the behavioral state and possibly to the endocrine state of the animal and suggest a novel mechanism for interactions among the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems.