Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Maternal MTR genotype contributes to the risk of non‐syndromic cleft lip and palate in the Polish population

The aetiology of non‐syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) is very complex. It has been shown that polymorphic variants of genes encoding key proteins of folate and methionine metabolism might be important maternal risk factors of having a child with this craniofacial anomaly. Therefore, in our study, mothers with CL/P children as well as control mothers were examined for prevalence of polymorphisms of genes that encode methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), methionine synthase (MTR), 5,10‐methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase, 5,10‐methenyltetrahydrofolate cyclohydrolase and 10‐formyltetrahydrofolate synthetase (MTHFD1) and reduced folate carrier 1 (RFC1). We observed that there were no statistical differences in allele and genotype frequencies of MTHFR c.677C>T, MTHFD1 c.1958G>A and RFC1 c.80G>A between mothers who had children with CL/P and control mothers. However, mothers with MTR c.2756AG or GG genotype displayed a 2.195‐fold increased risk of having a child with CL/P (95% CI 1.189–4.050, p = 0.011). The mechanism by which polymorphic transition of MTR gene might increase the maternal risk of having CL/P progeny is unknown. Our observations are consistent with a significant role of the methyl cycle in the development of craniofacial structures in humans.
Breaking Up is Hard to Do

From a position some years ago where the euro was seen as set to challenge the dollar as the worldâ€™s leading currency, there are now serious concerns that the ongoing Eurozone crisis will lead to some countries eventually withdrawing from it, beginning a process of European monetary disintegration. In retrospect, insufficient attention was paid to the economics of optimum currency area theory when the Eurozone was set up, and too much to the apparent political imperatives of European unity. Reversing the process of European monetary integration is not straightforward. There are significant uncertainties, but there are also serious doubts as to whether the reforms needed to sustain the Eurozone in its current form will be introduced. The withdrawal of some of the weaker economies does not signal the end of the euro. By analogy, while some marriages are based on close compatibility, and are successful and long lasting, others encounter irreconcilable differences. In these cases divorce, although unpleasant and stressful, may be the preferred outcome.
New Developments in Social Investing by Public Pensions

Social investing is the pursuit of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals through investment decisions. Public pension funds have been active in this arena since the 1970s, when many divested from apartheid South Africa. They have also aimed to achieve domestic goals, such as promoting union workers, economic development, and homeownership. In the mid-2000s, the focus shifted to preventing terrorism and gun violence. This effort included “terror-free” investing in response to the Darfur genocide and to weapons proliferation in Iran. And, after mass shootings in Aurora, CO, and Newtown, CT, some public funds shed their holdings in gun manufacturers. Most recently, states have renewed the call to divest from Iran and have increasingly targeted fossil fuels to combat climate change. This brief provides an update of social investing developments and assesses whether, in this changing environment, public funds should engage in this practice. This assessment addresses two questions: 1) can ESG-screened portfolios meet the same return/ risk objectives as non-screened portfolios; and 2) are public plans the right vehicle for advancing ESG goals? The discussion proceeds as follows. The first section explores trends in social investing and the U.S. Department of Labor’s guidance on this activity. The second section examines recent state divestment efforts. The third section analyzes the economics of social investing. The fourth section outlines the economic, political, and legal complications. The final section concludes that although social investing may be worthwhile for private investors, lower returns and fiduciary concerns make public pension funds unsuited for advancing ESG goals.
Why are some patients in treatment for advanced cancer reluctant to consult their GP?

Objectives. To analyse cancer patients’ views and perspectives on mechanisms and barriers to involving the GP in the late treatment phase of advanced cancer. Design. Qualitative, semi-structured interview study of 16 patients with advanced cancer and their next of kin. Seven patients were re-interviewed after six months and three after 12 months. Setting. Patients’ home in Region South, Denmark. Results. The cancer patients described how they developed a personal relationship with the staff at the cancer treatment centre. They also described some kind of dependability towards the hospital staff and therefore consulted the doctor or the staff at the cancer treatment centre before seeking advice from their GP. Some patients found that the GP was not familiar enough with the treatments given; others that they did not want to inconvenience the busy GP with what they perceived to be minor non-treatment-related matters. However, as the disease progressed they also described how they perceived unmet psychosocial needs. After ending chemotherapy, re-establishment of the contact between patient and GP was in this study dependent on a proactive attitude by the GP. Conclusion. GPs are important for cancer patients’ possibility of staying at home and dying at home. This study, however, shows that due to some patients’ barriers special attention is needed to guarantee the switch over from the cancer treatment centre to home-based end-of-life care. This is increasingly important as cancer patients to a still larger extent receive hospital-based, active treatment until shortly before death.
Location awareness based on infrared sensor array

Smart environment is a situation aware system for improving the quality of life. This kind of systems are extremely useful for solving or avoiding several issues. The issue we consider in this research is the care of elderly peoples living in their own homes. Usually, information needed for situation awareness is obtained from various devices such as video cameras and voice recorders. However, these devices often collect unnecessary information. For example, video images may include face images and conversations of the residents. This may make the residents discomfort. To avoid the problem, we can use only simple sensors (e.g., infrared sensor, temperature sensor and light sensor). To investigate the ability of the simple sensors, we set an experiment environment in a special corner of our laboratory. As the first step, we try to detect some frequently appeared locations of a resident with a sensor array containing seven infrared sensors. Experimental results show that the sensor array is quite effective, and is able to recognize the resident locations with a relatively high accuracy.
Echocardiography for Embolic Risk Stratification in Atrial Fibrillation: Improvement of CHA2DS2-VASc in the Era of New Oral Anticoagulants

It is well known that atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent sustained cardiac rhythm disturbance, occurring in between 1 and 2% of the general population. AF confers a fivefold risk of stroke and one in five of all strokes plus an unknown number of “cryptogenic strokes” is attributable to AF. (1) The mean incidence of a disabling stroke in AF patients is 2.5%/ year, which increase to 7% if TIA and silent stroke are included. Therefore, in the management of antithrombotic therapy in patients with AF the balance between embolic and hemorrhagic risk is essential. In these patients the first task for the physician is the risk stratification for embolism and hemorrhage with all the available score systems. This is the basis for the “individualized antithrombotic therapy”, which sometimes remain an ideal goal, to best treat AF against the two great risks: cerebral embolism and major hemorrhages.
Quantitative evaluation of erythropoietic activity in dysmyelopoietic syndromes

Summary. Based on the morphological appearances of the bone marrow and peripheral blood, 43 patients with dysmyelopoietic syndromes were categorized into four types: refractory anaemia with excess of blasts, chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia, primary acquired sideroblastic anaemia and refractory anaemia with cellular marrow, without excess of blasts and/or ring sideroblasts. Ferrokinetics allowed three distinct groups of patients to be defined. All cases of refractory anaemia with excess of blasts and chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia were classified in the same group. They were characterized by relative marrow failure and had a high likelihood of developing acute leukaemia. At the other end of the spectrum, individuals with primary acquired sideroblastic anaemia had high erythropoietic activity which was largely ineffective. They had a benign clinical course without evidence of leukaemic transformation. In the middle group, in terms of erythropoietic activity, lay patients with refractory anaemia with cellular marrow and a few individuals with primary acquired sideroblastic anaemia. Their clinical course and risk of developing acute leukaemia were intermediate between the other two groups. These findings indicate that separate entities may exist within the spectrum of dysmyelopoietic syndromes. In clinical practice, they may be recognized by morphological studies and other simple laboratory means.
What can VAT Statistics Tell Politicians? (with a Focus on EAEU Data)

Abstract While policymakers use taxes for the regulation of the economy, tax authorities constantly monitor the amount of revenues from different taxes, and sometimes the tax benefits in use. However, the author believes that policymakers neglect the feedback mechanism, offered by the tax statistics – the signal function of the taxes. The author shows, on the example of tax policies and VAT statistics, how these outline the trends in the development of the Eurasian Economic Union – signs of tax competition, dependence on import and tax loss due to policy gap. The paper further suggests the possible course of action for the policymakers.
Noise in a phosphorelay drives stochastic entry into sporulation in Bacillus subtilis

Entry into sporulation in Bacillus subtilis is governed by a phosphorelay in which phosphoryl groups from a histidine kinase are successively transferred via relay proteins to the response regulator Spo0A. Spo0A~P, in turn, sets in motion events that lead to asymmetric division and activation of the cell‐specific transcription factor σF, a hallmark for entry into sporulation. Here, we have used a microfluidics‐based platform to investigate the activation of Spo0A and σF in individual cells held under constant, sporulation‐inducing conditions. The principal conclusions were that: (i) activation of σF occurs with an approximately constant probability after adaptation to conditions of nutrient limitation; (ii) activation of σF is tightly correlated with, and preceded by, Spo0A~P reaching a high threshold level; (iii) activation of Spo0A takes place abruptly just prior to asymmetric division; and (iv) the primary source of noise in the activation of Spo0A is the phosphorelay. We propose that cells exhibit a constant probability of attaining a high threshold level of Spo0A~P due to fluctuations in the flux of phosphoryl groups through the phosphorelay.
Supramolecular structures of substituted alpha,alpha'-trehalose derivatives.

The structures of five substituted alpha,alpha'-trehalose trehalose derivatives have been determined, and these are compared with those of four previously published analogues. In 2,2',3,3',4,4'-hexaacetato-6,6'-bis-O-methylsulfonyl-alpha,alpha'-trehalose, C26H38O21S2, where the molecules lie across twofold rotation axes in the space group C2, a single C-H.O=S hydrogen bond links the molecules into sheets. 2,2',3,3',4,4'-Hexaacetato-6,6'-bis-O-(4-toluenesulfonyl)-alpha,alpha'-trehalose, C38H46O21S2, crystallizes with Z' = 2 in the space group P2(1)2(1)2(1) and a combination of three C-H.O hydrogen bonds, each having a carbonyl O atom as an acceptor, and a C-H.pi(arene) hydrogen bond link the molecules into a three-dimensional framework. 2,2',3,3',4,4'-Hexaacetato-6,6'-diazido-alpha,alpha'-trehalose, C24H32N6O15, crystallizes as a partial ethanol solvate and three C-H.O hydrogen bonds link the substituted trehalose molecules into a three-dimensional framework. In 2,2',3,3'-tetraacetato-6,6'-bis(N-acetylamino)-alpha,alpha'-trehalose dihydrate, C24H36N2O15.2H2O, the substituted trehalose molecules lie across twofold rotation axes in the space group P2(1)2(1)2 and a three-dimensional framework is generated by the combination of O-H.O and N-H.O hydrogen bonds. The diaminotrehalose molecules in 6,6'-diamino-alpha,alpha'-trehalose dihydrate, C12H24N2O9.2(H2O), lie across twofold rotation axes in the space group P4(3)2(1)2: a single O-H.N hydrogen bond links the trehalose molecules into sheets, which are linked into a three-dimensional framework by O-H.O hydrogen bonds.
Tunable Micro- and Nanomechanical Resonators

Advances in micro- and nanofabrication technologies have enabled the development of novel micro- and nanomechanical resonators which have attracted significant attention due to their fascinating physical properties and growing potential applications. In this review, we have presented a brief overview of the resonance behavior and frequency tuning principles by varying either the mass or the stiffness of resonators. The progress in micro- and nanomechanical resonators using the tuning electrode, tuning fork, and suspended channel structures and made of graphene have been reviewed. We have also highlighted some major influencing factors such as large-amplitude effect, surface effect and fluid effect on the performances of resonators. More specifically, we have addressed the effects of axial stress/strain, residual surface stress and adsorption-induced surface stress on the sensing and detection applications and discussed the current challenges. We have significantly focused on the active and passive frequency tuning methods and techniques for micro- and nanomechanical resonator applications. On one hand, we have comprehensively evaluated the advantages and disadvantages of each strategy, including active methods such as electrothermal, electrostatic, piezoelectrical, dielectric, magnetomotive, photothermal, mode-coupling as well as tension-based tuning mechanisms, and passive techniques such as post-fabrication and post-packaging tuning processes. On the other hand, the tuning capability and challenges to integrate reliable and customizable frequency tuning methods have been addressed. We have additionally concluded with a discussion of important future directions for further tunable micro- and nanomechanical resonators.
K-Wire fracture during minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion: Report of six cases and recommendations for avoidance and management

Background: Although rare, minimally invasive spine techniques do have the risk of intraoperative device failure. Kirschner wire (K-wire) fractures during minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MI-TLIF) have not been previously reported. This report focuses on the incidence of k-wire fractures following MI-TLIF and describes techniques to help avoid and treat these fractures when they occur. Methods: Inclusion criteria: (i) patients underwent 1, 2, or 3 level MI-TLIF over a 10-year period and (ii) had a k-wire fracture leading to a retained fragment. Exclusion criteria included: >10° coronal curves, significant sagittal malalignment, infection, and preoperative instrumentation failure. Results: Of 513 patients undergoing MI-TLIF, 6 (1.2%) sustained k-wire fracture (3 males, 3 females, mean age 43 ± 13 years). Complications included k-wire fracture alone (4 patients), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak (1 patient), and both ileus and revision for hardware removal (1 patient). All six patients went home postoperatively. The mean follow-up duration was 27.7 ± 37.4 months. All retained k-wire fragments were located in the vertebral bodies at the tip of the pedicle screws; none breached the anterior cortex of the vertebral bodies. None of the k-wires migrated at final follow-up 7.8 years (93.7 months) postoperatively. Furthermore, no complications were attributed to retained k-wires. Conclusions: K-wire fractures during MI-TLIF are rare (incidence of 1.2%) and retained k-wire segments led to no postoperative complications (e.g. no migration).
Transcription organization and mRNA levels of the genes for all 12 subunits of the fission yeast RNA polymerase II

The RNA polymerase II (Pol II) of eukaryotes is composed of 12 subunits, of which five are shared among Pol I, Pol II and Pol III. At present, however, little is known about the regulation of synthesis and assembly of the 12 Pol II subunits. To obtain an insight into the regulation of synthesis of these 12 Pol II subunits, Rpb1 to Rpb12, in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, we analysed the transcriptional organization of the rpb genes by use of the oligo capping method, and determined mRNA levels by quantitative competitive PCR assay.
Equality and Nondiscrimination through the Eyes of an International Religious Organization: The Organization of Islamic Cooperation's (OIC) Response to Women's Rights

This article is the first of a two part series that draws on women’s rights and sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) to explore how the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) represents, interprets and seeks to impact the right to equality and protection against discrimination as enshrined under international human rights law. The study is a novel one in as much as the OIC is neither a state nor a religious group per se. Rather, the OIC stands out as the only contemporary intergovernmental organization unifying its member states around the commonality of a single religion. In this capacity, the organization maintains no direct obligations or rights under key instruments such as the Universal Declaration on Human Rights (UDHR) or the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Nevertheless, as part of its mandate representing 57 predominantly Muslim states, the OIC has increasingly asserted a role for itself on the international stage as “the collective voice of the Muslim world. ” This new assertiveness is particularly evident in the context of debates surrounding the content of human rights norms in international fora such as the United Nations, where the OIC has sought to develop common policy positions and encourage its members to vote as a bloc on issues of concern. Against this backdrop, the article concludes that supporters of universal human rights norms need to better understand how the OIC’s mission to “protect and defend the true image of Islam” may impact international debates over the substance of equality and nondiscrimination norms, and develop appropriate responses to these efforts as a means to ensure that universality is not undermined. This article begins with a brief introduction to the OIC, and proceeds to explore its relationship with the principles of equality and nondiscrimination by examining its founding document and other relevant primary sources. With this understanding in place, the paper turns to examine the OIC’s contemporary handling of these principles as manifested in debates surrounding women’s rights as well as the relevance and impact of “Islamic family values” on the scope of those rights. This article’s exploration of “family values” also serves as a pivot point to begin framing rights issues related to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex (LGBTI) individuals and related SOGI issues. Throughout this examination, the role of the OIC’s newly established Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC) is considered as a means of appraising whether a shift in the OIC’s position may be forthcoming.
Plenary Lecture

Taste preferences, food choices and eating habits all change with age. The transition from childhood to adolescence and adult life is associated with reduced sweet taste preferences, lower sugars consumption and reduced energy density of the diet. Ageing is associated with elevated acceptance of bitter tastes, elevated preferences for vegetables and salad greens, and increased consumption of whole grains, vegetables and fruit. The age-associated drop in energy intakes is achieved through a reduction in the weight and volume of food consumed, as well as a reduction in the overall energy density of the diet. Energy density drops from a peak of 5 kJ (1.2 kcal)/g in adolescence and early adult life to a low of 3.1 kJ (0.75 kcal)/g for adult women aged 45–54 years. Older adults, particularly women, consume less fat and saturated fat and more fibre and vitamin C, suggesting a shift in consumption from snacks, sweets and desserts towards grains, vegetables and fruit. These changes in food preferences and eating habits are associated, on a population level, with a decline in preferences for sweet taste and with increased acceptance of bitter tastes. At present there are no data to show a causal relationship between age-related changes in sensory function and the selection of a more bulky energy-dilute diet. However, it is a plausible hypothesis that sensory factors mediate adjustments in energy density of foods at different life stages.
Controlling Hospital-Acquired Infection: Focus on the Role of the Environment and New Technologies for Decontamination

SUMMARY There is increasing interest in the role of cleaning for managing hospital-acquired infections (HAI). Pathogens such as vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), multiresistant Gram-negative bacilli, norovirus, and Clostridium difficile persist in the health care environment for days. Both detergent- and disinfectant-based cleaning can help control these pathogens, although difficulties with measuring cleanliness have compromised the quality of published evidence. Traditional cleaning methods are notoriously inefficient for decontamination, and new approaches have been proposed, including disinfectants, steam, automated dispersal systems, and antimicrobial surfaces. These methods are difficult to evaluate for cost-effectiveness because environmental data are not usually modeled against patient outcome. Recent studies have reported the value of physically removing soil using detergent, compared with more expensive (and toxic) disinfectants. Simple cleaning methods should be evaluated against nonmanual disinfection using standardized sampling and surveillance. Given worldwide concern over escalating antimicrobial resistance, it is clear that more studies on health care decontamination are required. Cleaning schedules should be adapted to reflect clinical risk, location, type of site, and hand touch frequency and should be evaluated for cost versus benefit for both routine and outbreak situations. Forthcoming evidence on the role of antimicrobial surfaces could supplement infection prevention strategies for health care environments, including those targeting multidrug-resistant pathogens.