Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effects of periodontal treatment on inflammation and oxidative stress markers in patients with metabolic syndrome.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a combination of risk factors (e.g. impaired glucose tolerance, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia) that significantly contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases. The aim of the study was to compare the effects of nonsurgical periodontal treatment (NSPT) on inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in individuals with MetS and systemically healthy (SH) who were chronic periodontitis (CP). MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 50 patients with chronic periodontitis (25 with MetS and 25 SH) were included. Clinical periodontal measurements were recorded, and serum and whole-saliva samples were collected from all patients at baseline, and 3 and 6 mo following NSPT. The levels of fasting plasma glucose, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), triglyceride (TRG), total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were analysed. The levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 were determined using ELISA kits, and total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and oxidative stress index (OSI) levels were measured. RESULTS After NSPT, significant and similar improvements of all periodontal parameters were observed in both groups compared with baseline measurements. There were decreases in the levels of serum hs-CRP and IL-6, whereas increases in serum IL-10 were found in both groups, at all time points. Serum TOS and OSI showed no significant change in either group at any time point. Compared with the SH group, serum TAC levels were higher in the MetS group at baseline but lower at the 3-mo time-point. There was no difference in TAC levels between the groups at 6 mo. Saliva IL-6 was higher in the MetS group than the SH group at all time points. The levels of IL-6 and OSI in saliva decreased following NSPT in both groups, whereas salivary TAC concentrations increased. In the MetS group, TRG and HbA1c levels decreased significantly at 3 mo. CONCLUSION NSPT decreased oxidative stress and the inflammatory status of patients with MetS and chronic periodontitis. Although similar periodontal improvements were achieved in both groups, the decreases in levels of hs-CRP and IL-6 in the MetS group did not reach the levels in the SH group. Based on these results, NSPT could be more effective in the control of systemic inflammation in patients with MetS in the short-term.
Oxidation of Monolignols by Members of the Berberine Bridge Enzyme Family Suggests a Role in Plant Cell Wall Metabolism*

Background: Berberine bridge enzyme-like proteins are a multigene family in plants. Results: Members of the berberine bridge enzyme-like family were identified as monolignol oxidoreductases. Conclusion: Berberine bridge enzyme-like enzymes play a role in monolignol metabolism and lignin formation. Significance: Our results indicate a novel and unexpected role of berberine bridge enzyme-like enzymes in plant biochemistry and physiology. Plant genomes contain a large number of genes encoding for berberine bridge enzyme (BBE)-like enzymes. Despite the widespread occurrence and abundance of this protein family in the plant kingdom, the biochemical function remains largely unexplored. In this study, we have expressed two members of the BBE-like enzyme family from Arabidopsis thaliana in the host organism Komagataella pastoris. The two proteins, termed AtBBE-like 13 and AtBBE-like 15, were purified, and their catalytic properties were determined. In addition, AtBBE-like 15 was crystallized and structurally characterized by x-ray crystallography. Here, we show that the enzymes catalyze the oxidation of aromatic allylic alcohols, such as coumaryl, sinapyl, and coniferyl alcohol, to the corresponding aldehydes and that AtBBE-like 15 adopts the same fold as vanillyl alcohol oxidase as reported previously for berberine bridge enzyme and other FAD-dependent oxidoreductases. Further analysis of the substrate range identified coniferin, the glycosylated storage form of coniferyl alcohol, as a substrate of the enzymes, whereas other glycosylated monolignols were rather poor substrates. A detailed analysis of the motifs present in the active sites of the BBE-like enzymes in A. thaliana suggested that 14 out of 28 members of the family might catalyze similar reactions. Based on these findings, we propose a novel role of BBE-like enzymes in monolignol metabolism that was previously not recognized for this enzyme family.
Tumorigenesis and Neoplastic Progression Role of Pancreatic Stellate Cells in Pancreatic Cancer Metastasis

Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) produce the stromal reaction in pancreatic cancer (PC), and their interaction with cancer cells facilitates cancer progression. This study investigated the role of human PSCs (hPSCs) in the metastatic process and tumor angiogenesis using both in vivo (orthotopic model) and in vitro (cultured PSC and PC cells) approaches. A sex mismatch study (injection of male hPSCs plus female PC cells into the pancreas of female mice) was conducted to determine whether hPSCs accompany cancer cells to metastatic sites. Metastatic nodules were examined by fluorescent in situ hybridization for the presence of the Y chromosome. Angiogenesis was assessed by i) immunostaining tumors for CD31, an endothelial cell marker; and ii) quantifying human microvascular endothelial cell (HMEC-1) tube formation in vitro on exposure to conditioned media from hPSCs. Transendothelial migration was assessed in vitro by examining the movement of fluorescently labeled hPSCs through an endothelial cell monolayer. Human PSCs i) were found in multiple metastatic sites in each mouse injected with male hPSCs plus female PC cells; ii) increased CD31 expression in primary tumors from mice injected with MiaPaCa-2 and hPSCs and stimulated tube formation by HMEC-1 in vitro; and iii) exhibited transendothelial migration that was stimulated by cancer cells. Human PSCs accompany cancer cells to metastatic sites , stimulate angiogenesis , and are able to intravasate/extravasate to and from blood vessels. (Am J Pathol 2010, 177:2585–2596; DOI: 10.2353/ajpath.2010.090899)
Mechanism of anti-asialo GM1 prevention of graft-vs-host disease: identification of allo-antigen activated T cells.

The purpose of this study was to begin to dissect the mechanism whereby anti-asialo GM1 (alpha ASGM1) prevents otherwise lethal graft-vs-host disease (GVHD) across multiple minor histocompatibility barriers in mice. Phenotypic characterization of cells from the peak proliferative time of the graft-vs-host reaction (C57BL/6J lymph node cells----irradiated LP/J, days 5-7) revealed the alpha ASGM1 and alpha Thy 1.2 identified cells with an approximate 80% concordance and that NK-1.1 staining was negligible. Because resting T cells do not label with alpha ASGM1, the epitope recognized by alpha ASGM1 on GVHR T cells is an activation antigen. Because asialo GM1 has been previously found on the surface of activated macrophages, we wanted to distinguish between the two most likely targets for the in vivo effect of alpha ASGM1 infusions (T cells or macrophages). We compared the effects of alpha ASGM1 infusions on alloantigen-stimulated T-cell proliferation versus antigen presentation: T-cell proliferation was markedly reduced by alpha ASGM1 infusions, whereas antigen presentation function was not diminished. We conclude that the mechanism whereby alpha ASGM1 prevents GVHD does not involve NK cells or antigen presenting cells, but does involve activated donor T cells. The potential therapeutic advantage of such an antibody for use in human disorders compared to pan-immunosuppression lies in its ability to eliminate selectively those T cells involved in the immunologic process (i.e. activated T cells) while sparing the remainder of the T-cell repertoire.
Systematic comparison of HF CMOS transconductors

Transconductors are commonly used as active elements in high-frequency (HF) filters, amplifiers, mixers, and oscillators. This paper reviews transconductor design by focusing on the V-I kernel that determines the key transconductor properties. Based on bandwidth considerations, simple V-I kernels with few or no internal nodes are preferred. In a systematic way, virtually all simple kernels published in literature are generated. This is done in two steps: 1) basic 3-terminal transconductors are covered and 2) then five different techniques to combine two of them in a composite V-I kernel. In order to compare transconductors in a fair way, a normalized signal-to-noise ratio (NSNR) is defined. The basic V-I kernels and the five classes of composite V-I kernels are then compared, leading to insight in the key mechanisms that affect NSNR. Symbolic equations are derived to estimate NSNR, while simulations with more advanced MOSFET models verify the results. The results show a strong tradeoff between NSNR and transconductance tuning range. Resistively generated MOSFETs render the best NSNR results and are robust for future technology developments.
The Changing Face of Historically Black Colleges and Universities

" As the country moves closer to becoming a minority-majority population, several opportunities exist for HBCUs, from increased enrollments, funding, and overall attention. However, the appropriate strategic leaders and vision must be in place to take advantage of any opportunities that arise for these schools. " in broad brushstrokes where Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) fi t within the shifting landscape of U.S. higher education. we focus on three key areas: students, leadership, and fundraising. In addition to including crucial information about the diver-sifi cation of HBCU student populations with respect to race/ethnicity and gender, we consider how HBCUs provide support and services for lGBT students and offer programs and classes that ensure students' success in an increasingly global world. we also identify some of the challenges and opportunities facing HBCU presidents and faculty. By putting the data in the broader context of U.S. higher education, we highlight where HBCUs lead their national counterparts and where they lag behind. Finally, we sketch where HBCUs stand in terms of fundraising, pointing out challenges, highlighting successes, and suggesting steps that these minority-serving institutions can take to increase their endowments. Before turning to the facts and fi gures, we ask you to keep one thing in mind: In many places where these data show HBCUs lagging behind their national counterparts, the disconnect refl ects less on the institutions themselves than on the tendency in the United States to invest in students who need the least help instead of those who need the most. what is striking is how successful HBCUs have been in educating traditionally underserved students despite the many obstacles these institutions face.
SUMO modification regulates inactivation of the voltage-gated potassium channel Kv1.5

The voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channel Kv1.5 mediates the IKur repolarizing current in human atrial myocytes and regulates vascular tone in multiple peripheral vascular beds. Understanding the complex regulation of Kv1.5 function is of substantial interest because it represents a promising pharmacological target for the treatment of atrial fibrillation and hypoxic pulmonary hypertension. Herein we demonstrate that posttranslational modification of Kv1.5 by small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) proteins modulates Kv1.5 function. We have identified two membrane-proximal and highly conserved cytoplasmic sequences in Kv1.5 that conform to established SUMO modification sites in transcription factors. We find that Kv1.5 interacts specifically with the SUMO-conjugating enzyme Ubc9 and is a target for modification by SUMO-1, -2, and -3 in vivo. In addition, purified recombinant Kv1.5 serves as a substrate in a minimal in vitro reconstituted SUMOylation reaction. The SUMO-specific proteases SENP2 and Ulp1 efficiently deconjugate SUMO from Kv1.5 in vivo and in vitro, and disruption of the two identified target motifs results in a loss of the major SUMO-conjugated forms of Kv1.5. In whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiological studies, loss of Kv1.5 SUMOylation, by either disruption of the conjugation sites or expression of the SUMO protease SENP2, leads to a selective ≈15-mV hyperpolarizing shift in the voltage dependence of steady-state inactivation. Reversible control of voltage-sensitive channels through SUMOylation constitutes a unique and likely widespread mechanism for adaptive tuning of the electrical excitability of cells.
Photoresponses in Poly-Si Phototransistors Incorporating Germanium Quantum Dots in the Gate Dielectrics

Poly-Si thin film transistors (TFTs) incorporating germanium (Ge) quantum dots (QDs) in the gate oxide were fabricated as efficient blue to near ultraviolet phototransistors for light detection and amplification. The drain current measured under 405 nm light irradiation of 25 muW improves ~45% as compared to that measured in darkness at VGS=-3 V. The poly-Si TFTs exhibited strong photoresponses in drive current under 405~450 nm light illumination, resulting from photoexcited holes in Ge QDs flow into the channel layer of the transistor via the gate bias to increase the channel mobile carriers.
TRANSMISSION OF A PROFESSIONAL CULTURE: TRANSITION MENTORING

This paper presents the results of an exploratory study about the nature of mentoring during the transition from a departing experienced school librarian to the arrival of a new professional. The term coined for this study, transition mentoring, is defined as the transmission of culture and practice of the exiting librarian to the new professional who is taking his/her position. As cultural curators of their organizations, librarians are unique in their knowledge and practice and often information critical to the efficientfunctioning of their libraries is lost during the period of transition. The study surveyed school librarians relatively new to their positions about their experiences in the transition to their schools. The study concluded that communication of the professional culture of the library should be imparted through objects, forms and information left by the exiting librarian. Also important is the practical knowledge of support staff. Transition mentoring programs should be studied further in a variety of library and information settings.
Phylogeographic Diversity of the Lower Central American Cichlid Andinoacara coeruleopunctatus (Cichlidae)

It is well appreciated that historical and ecological processes are important determinates of freshwater biogeographic assemblages. Phylogeography can potentially lend important insights into the relative contribution of historical processes in biogeography. However, the extent that phylogeography reflects historical patterns of drainage connection may depend in large part on the dispersal capability of the species. Here, we test the hypothesis that due to their relatively greater dispersal capabilities, the neotropical cichlid species Andinoacara coeruleopunctatus will display a phylogeographic pattern that differs from previously described biogeographic assemblages in this important region. Based on an analysis of 318 individuals using mtDNA ATPase 6/8 sequence and restriction fragment length polymorphism data, we found eight distinct clades that are closely associated with biogeographic patterns. The branching patterns among the clades and a Bayesian clock analysis suggest a relatively rapid colonization and diversification among drainages in the emergent Isthmus of Panama followed by the coalescing of some drainages due to historical connections. We also present evidence for extensive cross-cordillera sharing of clades in central Panama and the Canal region. Our results suggest that contemporary phylogeographic patterns and diversification in Lower Central American fishes reflect an interaction of historical drainage connections, dispersal, and demographic processes.
A 20-MHz 1.8-W DC–DC Converter With Parallel Microinductors and Improved Light-Load Efficiency

The purpose of this paper is to show that distributing microinductors in parallel can reduce light-load losses, while also maintaining the same overall footprint area and the same effective inductance as a single microinductor. The performance of parallel microinductors is compared in a number of configurations to demonstrate which configuration provides the best overall performance in terms of circuit size, conversion efficiency, and power handling. Light-load saving techniques are implemented demonstrating the potential of parallel inductors to improve efficiency at light-load. Measured and modeled results of efficiency versus load are presented for the prototype DC-DC converters explored, and a peak efficiency of 74% is predicted for a 1.8 W, 20-MHz DC-DC converter including microinductors.
Six-year follow-up of a randomised controlled trial examining hospital versus home-based exercise training after coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Objective To compare the long-term effectiveness of hospital versus telephone-monitored home-based exercise training during cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on exercise capacity and habitual physical activity. Design Six-year follow-up of patients who participated in a randomised controlled trial of hospital versus monitored home-based exercise training during CR after coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Setting Outpatient CR centre in Central-South Ontario, Canada. Participants 196 Patients who participated in the original randomised controlled trial and who attended an evaluation 1 year after CR. Interventions 6 months of home or hospital-based exercise training during CR. Main outcome measures Peak oxygen uptake (peak Vo2), Physical Activity Scale in the Elderly (PASE) to assess habitual activity, semi-structured interviews to assess vital status, demographic and descriptive information. Results Of the 196 eligible patients, 144 (75.5%; 74 Hospital, 70 Home) were available for participation. Patients were predominantly male (n=120; 83.3%) aged 70±9.5 years. Clinical and sociodemographic outcomes were similar in both groups. While exercise performance declined over time, there were significant between-group differences in peak Vo2 (1506±418 ml/min vs 1393±341 ml/min; p=0.017) and PASE scores (166.7±90.2 vs 139.7±66.5; p=0.001) at 6-year follow-up in favour of the home group. Conclusions Home and hospital-based exercise training maintained exercise capacity above pre-CR levels 6 years after CR. Exercise training initiated in the home environment in low-risk patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery conferred greater long-term benefit on Vo2 and persistent physical activity compared with traditional hospital-based CR.
A Randomized Study of the Effects of Food on the Pharmacokinetics of Once‐Daily Extended‐Release Hydromorphone in Healthy Volunteers

This randomized, open‐label, crossover study investigated the influence of food on the pharmacokinetics of extended‐release hydromorphone in 30 healthy volunteers. Participants received extended‐release hydromorphone 16 mg in the fasted state and immediately after a high‐fat breakfast. In addition, the pharmacokinetics of a 16‐mg dose of extended‐release hydromorphone and a 16‐mg daily dose (4 mg qid) of immediate‐release hydromorphone in the fasted state were compared. Treatments were separated by washout periods of 7 to 14 days. Naltrexone was given throughout each treatment period to block the opioid effects of hydromorphone. The 90% confidence intervals (CIs) of the ratios of geometric means for maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax) and area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC) for extended‐release hydromorphone in the fed and fasted states were within the bioequivalence criteria range of 80% to 125%. In the fasted state, the 90% CIs of the ratios of AUC geometric means for extended‐release hydromorphone and immediate‐release hydromorphone were also within the bioequivalence range. Both hydromorphone treatments were well tolerated. This study shows that the bioavailability of extended‐release hydromorphone is not affected by food and that the bioavailability of extended‐release hydromorphone under fasting conditions is comparable with that of the immediate‐release formulation when administered at the same total daily dose.
Impact of Capital Structure on the Profitability of Firms Evidence from Automobile Sector of Pakistan

In finance literature capital structure received considerable attention as factor affecting the profitability of firms. The aim of this paper is to contributes to literature on this factor (Capital structure) and evaluate its impact and nature of relationship with the profitability of Automobile companies listed in Karachi stock exchange.19 companies were selected as sample. Data is extracted from the publications of the relevant companies and website of stat bank of Pakistan from 2006-2012.Regression analysis and correlation test is used with the help of statistical package SPSS in order to predict the result. Study concludes that capital structure (Debt/Equity) is negatively associated with the profitability, which implies that an increase in debt capital caused a decrease in the profitability of the firms and vice versa. These results are supportive for the business companies during the financing of capital.
Working memory in spelling: Evidence from backward typing

Theories of spelling (Margolin, 1984; Nolan & Caramazza, 1983) propose a working memory system for storing order and identity information of letters during the spelling process. Capacity limitations related to the use of such a graphemic buffer were explored. Participants had to type words backwards. Longer pauses between key presses were assumed to signal points at which graphemic buffer contents were refreshed. Five- and six-letter words were divided by a major pause into chunks of two and three letters, partly coinciding with syllables. Articulatory suppression had no effect on performance. Increasing the length of the stimuli to seven to eight letters resulted in major pauses occurring at syllable boundaries, and performance becoming vulnerable to articulatory suppression but not foot tapping. Forward typing resulted in a similar pause pattern. The results suggest that chunks of approximately three letters can be handled at any one time. For short words the task seems to rely on non-phonological modes of coding, whereas longer words appear to require the use of a phonological code, possibly for keeping track of progress through the word.