Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Hemodialysis access usage patterns in the incident dialysis year and associated catheter-related complications.

BACKGROUND Hemodialysis (HD) access is considered a critical and actionable determinant of morbidity, with a growing literature suggesting that initial HD access type is an important marker of long-term outcomes. Accordingly, we examined HD access during the incident dialysis period, focusing on infection risk and successful fistula creation during the first dialysis year. STUDY DESIGN Longitudinal cohort. SETTING & PARTICIPANTS All US adults admitted to Fresenius Medical Care North America facilities within 15 days of first maintenance dialysis session between January 1 and December 31, 2007. PREDICTOR Vascular access type at HD therapy initiation. OUTCOMES Vascular access type at 90 days and at the end of the first year on HD therapy, bloodstream infection within the first year by access type, and catheter complication rate. RESULTS Of 25,003 incident dialysis patients studied, 19,622 (78.5%) initiated dialysis with a catheter; 4,151 (16.6%), with a fistula; and 1,230 (4.9%), with a graft. At 90 days, 14,105 (69.7%) had a catheter, 4,432 (21.9%) had a fistula, and 1,705 (8.4%) had a graft. Functioning fistulas and grafts at dialysis therapy initiation had first-year failure rates of 10% and 15%, respectively. Grafts were seldom replaced by fistulas (3%), whereas 7,064 (47.6%) of all patients who initiated with a catheter alone still had only a catheter at 1 year. Overall, 3,327 (13.3%) patients had at least one positive blood culture during follow-up, with the risk being similar between the fistula and graft groups, but approximately 3-fold higher in patients with a catheter (P<0.001 for either comparison). Nearly 1 in 3 catheters (32.5%) will require tissue plasminogen activator use by a median of 41 days, with 59% requiring more than one tissue plasminogen activator administration. LIMITATIONS Potential underestimation of bacteremia because follow-up blood culture results did not include samples sent to local laboratories. CONCLUSIONS In a large and representative population of incident US dialysis patients, catheter use remains very high during the first year of HD care and is associated with high mechanical complication and bloodstream infection rates.
Estrogen receptor (ER)β knockout mice reveal a role for ERβ in migration of cortical neurons in the developing brain

The present study stems from our previous observations that the brains of adult estrogen receptor β knockout (ERβ−/−) mice show regional neuronal hypocellularity especially in the cerebral cortex. We now show that ERβ is necessary for late embryonic development of the brain and is involved in both neuronal migration and apoptosis. At embryonic day (E)18.5, ERβ−/− mouse brains were smaller than those of the wild-type (WT) littermates, and there were fewer neurons in the cortex. There were no differences in size or cellularity at E14.5. When proliferating cells were labeled with 5′-bromodeoxyuridine (BrdUrd) on E12.5, a time when cortical neurogenesis in mice begins, and examined on E14.5, there was no difference between WT and ERβ−/− mice in the number of labeled cells in the cortex. However, when BrdUrd was administered between E14.5 and E16.5, a time when postmitotic neurons migrate to layers of the cortex, there were fewer BrdUrd-labeled cells in the superficial cortical layers by E18.5 and postnatal day 14 in mice lacking ERβ. At E18.5, there were more apoptotic cells in the ventricular zone of mice lacking ERβ. In addition, the processes of the cortical radial glia, which are essential for guiding the migrating neurons, were fragmented. These findings suggest that by influencing migration and neuronal survival, ERβ has an important role in brain development.
Triggering and amplifying pathways of regulation of insulin secretion by glucose.

Glucose stimulates insulin secretion by generating triggering and amplifying signals in beta-cells. The triggering pathway is well characterized. It involves the following sequence of events: entry of glucose by facilitated diffusion, metabolism of glucose by oxidative glycolysis, rise in the ATP-to-ADP ratio, closure of ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channels, membrane depolarization, opening of voltage-operated Ca2+ channels, Ca2+ influx, rise in cytoplasmic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), and activation of the exocytotic machinery. The amplifying pathway can be studied when beta-cell [Ca2+]i is elevated and clamped by a depolarization with either a high concentration of sulfonylurea or a high concentration of K+ in the presence of diazoxide (K(ATP) channels are then respectively blocked or held open). Under these conditions, glucose still increases insulin secretion in a concentration-dependent manner. This increase in secretion is highly sensitive to glucose (produced by as little as 1-6 mmol/l glucose), requires glucose metabolism, is independent of activation of protein kinases A and C, and does not seem to implicate long-chain acyl-CoAs. Changes in adenine nucleotides may be involved. The amplification consists of an increase in efficacy of Ca2+ on exocytosis of insulin granules. There exists a clear hierarchy between both pathways. The triggering pathway predominates over the amplifying pathway, which remains functionally silent as long as [Ca2+]i has not been raised by the first pathway; i.e., as long as glucose has not reached its threshold concentration. The alteration of this hierarchy by long-acting sulfonylureas or genetic inactivation of K(ATP) channels may lead to inappropriate insulin secretion at low glucose. The amplifying pathway serves to optimize the secretory response not only to glucose but also to nonglucose stimuli. It is impaired in beta-cells of animal models of type 2 diabetes, and indirect evidence suggests that it is altered in beta-cells of type 2 diabetic patients. Besides the available drugs that act on K(ATP) channels and increase the triggering signal, novel drugs that correct a deficient amplifying pathway would be useful to restore adequate insulin secretion in type 2 diabetic patients.
Enhancing the quality of teaching and learning in Europe's Higher Education institutions

Quality assurance considers that ‘prevention is better than a cure’. Quality is a continuous improvement, where it does not come by chance or by accident and is achieved when every professor succeeds in igniting the minds of students. Nonetheless, across the European Union, there is a diverse picture of how European higher institutions promote quality in teaching and learning. The issue of quality in higher education has been given the attention in the academic and legislative environment starting with the Bologna process. Together with the Bologna process, the Lisbon strategy has led to the development and consolidation of universities, with a view to instating a quality culture. It is the aim of this paper to present the challenges in the European Higher Education area. Moreover, this paper identifies European standards and guidelines that European institutions should implement for the continuous enhancement of quality.
Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope values of bone and teeth reflect weaning age at the Medieval Wharram Percy site, Yorkshire, UK.

We report on the measurements of carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes of both bone and teeth from a single site and population (Medieval Wharram Percy), undertaken to explore variations due to weaning in a past population. There have been a number of recent studies of weaning using delta(15)N values of ribs, and we indicate a number of assumptions that must be met before the results of such studies can be correctly interpreted. We found that rib collagen delta(15)N values decrease to adult levels after age 2 years, indicating that weaning occurred at or before this age. Rib collagen delta(13)C values are also more enriched than adult delta(13)C values before age 2 years, and we argue that this is due to the so-called "carnivore" effect in delta(13)C. We measured teeth and rib delta(15)N values from the same individuals and found that for individuals up to age 11 years, tooth dentine delta(15)N is higher than adult rib delta(15)N values, indicating that the dentine was formed during breast-feeding and that there was almost no turnover of dentine since. We observed some decrease in delta(13)C and delta(15)N rib values, compared to adult rib and teeth values, for the few years after weaning that may relate to a theoretically predicted physiological nitrogen imbalance during this period of rapid growth, but this is more likely due to a childhood diet (up to age 9) which was isotopically different from later diet, possibly consisting of a greater proportion of plant foods.
The kainate receptor subunit GluR6 mediates metabotropic regulation of the slow and medium AHP currents in mouse hippocampal neurones

Kainate receptors (KARs) play an important role in synaptic physiology, plasticity and pathological phenomena such as epilepsy. However, the physiological implications for single cells and neuronal networks of the distinct expression patterns of KAR subunits are unknown. One intriguing effect of KAR activation is a long‐term change to intrinsic neuronal excitability and neuronal firing patterns, such as single‐spike and spike‐burst firing. In this study, we describe the role of kainate receptor subunits in the metabotropic regulation of the slow and medium afterhyperpolarization (AHP) currents (IsAHP, ImAHP). Using whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings from CA3 pyramidal cells of wild‐type (WT) and KAR knockout mice, we show that the kainate‐induced decrease of IsAHP and ImAHP amplitude is protein‐kinase‐C‐dependent and absent in GluR6−/− but not GluR5−/− pyramidal neurones. Our findings suggest that activation of GluR6‐containing KARs modulates AHP amplitude, and influences the firing frequency of pyramidal neurones.
Low-speed sensorless field-oriented control of asynchronous machine based on adaptive flux error suppression method

In this paper, the sensorless field-oriented control of asynchronous machine with squirrel-cage rotor (AMS) at the low-speed operation will be observed. The identification of rotor speed from adaptive flux error as well as the adaptation mechanism will be investigated. At first, the background of model reference adaptive system (MRAS) will be revised. Later, the mathematical model of AMS in the stationary reference frame will be presented for decoupling of flux term. After that, the adaptive scheme based on relevant flux terms will be presented. One as a reference model and one another as an adaptive model. Finally, the simulation result based on defined parameters will be discussed.
Are local climate adaptation policies credible? A conceptual and operational assessment framework

ABSTRACT After the Paris Agreement that put stronger emphasis on the development of climate change adaptation policies and on the definition of financing mechanisms, there is a patent need to track whether actual planning efforts are proving sufficient. This entails the development of assessment methods and metrics as plans are drafted and actions implemented. To this end, this paper explores the concept of credibility as a critical issue in climate policy and develops an Adaptation Policy Credibility (APC) conceptual and operational assessment framework for helping to allocate public funding and private investments, and for implementing and catalysing climate policy. Through a pilot testing in four early-adopting cities (Copenhagen, Durban, Quito and Vancouver), a clear potential for large-n tracking and assessment exercises of local climate adaptation plans is envisaged. The APC approach might also be useful to guide individual cities that aim to improve their adaptation planning and policy-making processes.
Earthquake Prediction: Variation of Seismic Velocities before the San Francisco Earthquake

A large precursory change in seismic body-wave velocities occurred before the earthquake in San Fernando, California. The discovery that this change is mainly in the P-wave velocity clearly relates the effect to the phenomenon of dilatancy in fluid-filled rocks. This interpretation is supported by the time-volume relation obtained by combining the present data with the data from previous studies. The duration of the precursor period is proportional to the square of an effective fault dimension, which indicates that a diffusive or fluid-flow phenomenon controls the time interval between the initiation of dilatancy and the return to a fully saturated condition which is required for rupture.
ATL “Como Acción de Construcción de Marca a Largo Plazo”

espanolATL es una herramienta efectiva de marketing para construir marcas a largo plazo, es hacer publicidad pagada a traves de medios de comunicacion masivos como radio, television o internet, periodicos, revistas, que va mas al publico en general para dar a conocer a nivel nacional o internacional que la marca existe y quede en la mente de muchas personas. Las empresas utilizan diferentes formas de publicidad con el fin de comercializar sus productos y/o servicios y asi lograr posesionarse en cada uno de sus mercados y obtener un mayor impacto y resultados en la captacion de nuevos y actuales clientes. EnglishATL is an effective marketing tool to build brands in the long term, is to make paid advertising through mass media such as radio, television or internet, newspapers, magazines, which goes more to the general public to make known nationally or international that the brand exists and remains in the minds of many people. Companies use different forms of advertising in order to market their products and / or services and thus achieve ownership in each of their markets and obtain a greater impact and results in attracting new and current customers.
Retinoid therapy of pigmentary disorders

ABSTRACT: Topical retinoids such as all‐trans‐retinoic acid (RA), 13‐cis‐retinoic acid (isotretinoin), retinol, retinaldehyde, tazarotene, and adapalene have been shown to improve dyspigmentation of photodamaged skin including mottling and actinic lentigines. RA monotherapy has also been demonstrated to improve melasma and postinflammatory hypermelanosis. Furthermore, RA in combination with hydroquinone or 4‐hydroxyanisole, or azelaic acid increases the potency of depigmenting agents for the treatment of melasma, actinic lentigines, and postinflammatory hypermelanosis. The basic mechanisms underlying these effects are not completely identified. Topical retinoids stimulate the cell turn‐over of epidermal keratinocytes and promote a decrease in melanosome transfer and a rapid loss of melanins via epidermopoiesis. Topical retinoids are also involved in the control of cell differentiation. Retinoid‐induced changes in the stratum corneum and the permeability barrier may also facilitate the penetration of depigmenting agents in the epidermis and increase their bioavailability, leading to increased depigmentation. In addition, several in vitro studies demonstrate that cis and trans‐retinoic acid inhibit UV‐B stimulated melanogenesis in term of tyrosinase activity and melanin synthesis. It is likely that topical retinoids modulate epidermal melanin count via a direct action on melanocytes and epidermal keratinocytes.
Aire and Foxp3 Expression in a Particular Microenvironment for T Cell Differentiation

Objective: The thymus is the primary lymphoid organ responsible for T cell development and the establishment of central self-tolerance. Among thymic epithelial cells, thymic nurse cells (TNC) interact closely with immature thymocytes and constitute a special microenvironment for T cell differentiation and selection. In addition, TNC express neuroendocrine self-antigens such as oxytocin and insulin-like growth factor-2, whose intrathymic transcription is regulated by the autoimmune regulator gene/protein (Aire). Both effector and natural regulatory T cell (nTreg) lineages develop in the thymus, but the mechanisms leading to nTreg selection in the thymus are still unclear. Foxp3 is the most specific nTreg marker that is required for nTreg functional activity, but not for engagement into the Treg lineage. Aire has been suggested to be a potential factor implicated in this role. The objective of this study was to characterize Aire and Foxp3 expression in TNC/thymocyte complexes. Methods:Aire and Foxp3 expression was investigated by RT-qPCR in TNC/thymocyte complexes isolated by enzymatic digestion and sedimentation. Aire and Foxp3 proteins were located by confocal microscopy and specific immunocytochemistry. Results: Both Aire and Foxp3 transcripts were detected in TNC/thymocyte complexes. Foxp3 was detected in the nucleus of thymocytes internalized into TNC. Aire was located mainly in TNC cytoplasm and, although to a lower degree, in the nucleus of some TNC-associated thymocytes. Conclusions: Aire and Foxp3 are present in the particular TNC microenvironment which has previously been shown to support thymic selection. The differential localization of these two markers suggests a role for TNC in nTreg development.
Correlation of Increased Metabolic Activity, Resistance to Infection, Enhanced Phagocytosis, and Inhibition of Bacterial Growth by Macrophages from Listeria- and BCG-Infected Mice

Macrophages from mice infected with facultative intracellular organisms such as Listeria monocytogenes and BCG have been shown to resist infection by antigenically unrelated intracellular bacterial parasites. This study compares phagocytosis, bacterial growth inhibition, and oxidation of glucose by macrophages from normal mice, mice infected with listeria or BCG, or mice immunized with killed listeria in incomplete Freund's adjuvant. Macrophages from listeria- and BCG-infected mice ingested more listeria; 67 and 57%, respectively, had three or more cell-associated bacteria versus 22% of controls (P < 0.001). Peritoneal macrophages from listeria- and BCG-infected animals significantly (P < 0.001 covariance analysis) inhibited growth of listeria in suspension, whereas control macrophages had no such inhibitory effect. The rate of oxidation of glucose-1-14C was higher in macrophages from listeria- and BCG-infected mice than from either uninfected animals or those immunized with killed listeria. During phagocytosis of killed or live bacteria, or latex particles, the rate of glucose oxidation was increased (P < 0.01). These data suggest that the cellular immunity after infection by an intracellular organism is associated with an increase in metabolic activity of macrophages, namely, an increase in the rate of glucose oxidation resulting in enhancement of phagocytosis and killing.
Effect of tirasemtiv, a selective activator of the fast skeletal muscle troponin complex, in patients with peripheral artery disease

Tirasemtiv (CK-2017357), a novel small-molecule activator of the fast skeletal muscle troponin complex, slows the rate of calcium release from troponin, thus sensitizing fast skeletal muscle fibers to calcium. In preclinical studies, tirasemtiv increased muscle force and delayed the onset and reduced the extent of muscle fatigue during hypoxia in vitro and muscle ischemia in situ. This study evaluated the effect of single doses of tirasemtiv on measures of skeletal muscle function and fatigability in patients with stable calf claudication due to peripheral artery disease (PAD). Sixty-one patients with an ankle–brachial index ≤0.90 in the leg with claudication received single double-blind doses of tirasemtiv 375 mg and 750 mg and matching placebo in random order about 1 week apart. After 33 patients were treated, the 750 mg dose was decreased to 500 mg due to adverse events and these dose groups were combined for analysis. On each study day, bilateral heel-raise testing was performed before and at 3 and 6 hours after dosing; a 6-minute walk test was performed at 4 hours after dosing. Claudicating calf muscle performance was increased at the highest dose and plasma concentration of tirasemtiv; however, the 6-minute walk distance decreased with both the dose and plasma concentration of tirasemtiv, possibly due to dose-related adverse events, particularly dizziness, that could impede walking ability. In conclusion, the mechanism of fast skeletal muscle troponin activation improved muscle function but not 6-minute walking distance in patients with claudication due to PAD. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01131013
Le marché de l’assurance responsabilité des municipalités québécoises est-il contestable?

In this paper, the hypothesis that the liability insurance market for small municipalities in the province of Quebec functions "as if contestable" is tested. In light of our results, we cannot reject the hypothesis that the general liability market is indeed contestable. On the contrary, we reject this hypothesis in the case of the professional liability market. Cet article presente un test de la theorie des marches contestables applique aux assurances responsabilite civile et professionnelle pour les petites municipalites quebecoises. A la lumiere des resultats de ce test, on ne peut rejeter l’hypothese que le marche de l’assurance responsabilite civile est contestable pour la periode consideree. On peut, par contre, rejeter cette hypothese pour l’assurance responsabilite professionnelle.
A Formalism for the Analysis and Design of Modular Kinematic Structures

The exploitation of robotic systems with more complex kinematic structures than those of conventional serial chains is widely per ceived as one of the main avenues of development for robotics. The concept encompasses systems of different scales and characteris tics, such as hybrid manipulators, multifingered hands, cooperative robotic arms, walking machines, and so on. The underlying kine matic structure of these systems is the same in the sense that they can be regarded as combinations of modules. In this paper, we aim to provide a framework for systematically identifying, classifying, and combining different modules of such manipulators. Hence, we introduce a formalism that comprises a set of definitions, a symbolic representation of modules, and a set of operations based on the kine matic structure, degree of actuation, and mobility of the modules. The proposed formalism allows us to efficiently analyze and synthe size modular manipulators according to their constituent kinematic modules. Moreover, the foregoing operations can be easily per formed in symbolic form, using commercial software, which makes their implementation generic and more useful. The information that is obtained from these operations provides a data base for either designing an inventory of modules or interchanging modules when an inventory of modules is available to the system. The application of the proposed formalism is demonstrated through a few examples, one of which pertains to a 7-DOF hybrid manipulator with parallel subchains, whose architecture is introduced here for the first time.