Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Brain Anaerobic Lactate Production: A Suicide Note or a Survival Kit?

Aerobic energy metabolism utilizes glucose and oxygen to satisfy all the energy needs of the adult brain. Anaerobically, the brain switches to the significantly less efficient glycolytic pathway for its most basic energy requirements. Anaerobic glycolysis provides the adult brain with a limited amount of energy and time to maintain ion homoeostasis and other essential processes before several events occur that lead to brain cell damage and death. Recent evidence that lactate, produced mainly in glial cells during a period of oxygen deprivation, becomes the only utilizable and thus obligatory substrate for aerobic energy metabolism upon reoxygenation is summarized here. This evidence also supports the hypothesis that a lactate shuttle exists between glia and neurons, and emphasizes its importance in the post-ischemic survival of neurons.
Electrochemical Properties of Boron-Doped Fullerene Derivatives for Lithium-Ion Battery Applications.

The high electron affinity of fullerene C60 coupled with the rich chemistry of carbon makes it a promising material for cathode applications in lithium-ion batteries. Since boron has one electron less than carbon, the presence of boron on C60 cages is expected to generate electron deficiency in C60 , and thereby to enhance its electron affinity. By using density functional theory (DFT), we studied the redox potentials and electronic properties of C60 and C59 B. We have found that doping C60 with one boron atom results in a substantial increase in redox potential from 2.462 V to 3.709 V, which was attributed to the formation of an open shell system. We also investigated the redox and electronic properties of C59 B functionalized with various redox-active oxygen containing functional groups (OCFGs). For the combination of functionalization with OCFGs and boron doping, it is found that the enhancement of redox potential is reduced, which is mainly attributed to the open shell structure being changed to a closed-shell one. Nevertheless, the redox potentials are still higher than that of pristine C60 . From the observation that the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital of closed-shell OCFG- functionalized C59 B is correlated well with the redox potential, it was confirmed that the spin state is crucial to be considered to understand the relationship between electronic structure and redox properties.
Spatially patterned matrix elasticity directs stem cell fate

Significance The expansion and differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), an important cell type that is frequently used in stem-cell–based therapies, are regulated by interactions with their local extracellular microenvironment. Matrix stiffness is one of the key regulators, but often varies in space at a range of length scales in the local niche. To better understand and harness cell–matrix interactions, we used an innovative phototunable hydrogel platform to provide compelling evidence that the magnitude and spatial organization of matrix mechanics influence hMSCs through systematic regulation of cytoskeletal tension and transcriptional activation. These findings may have important implications in deepening our fundamental understanding of the role of extracellular matrix organization on disease, aging, and regenerative processes. There is a growing appreciation for the functional role of matrix mechanics in regulating stem cell self-renewal and differentiation processes. However, it is largely unknown how subcellular, spatial mechanical variations in the local extracellular environment mediate intracellular signal transduction and direct cell fate. Here, the effect of spatial distribution, magnitude, and organization of subcellular matrix mechanical properties on human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSCs) function was investigated. Exploiting a photodegradation reaction, a hydrogel cell culture substrate was fabricated with regions of spatially varied and distinct mechanical properties, which were subsequently mapped and quantified by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The variations in the underlying matrix mechanics were found to regulate cellular adhesion and transcriptional events. Highly spread, elongated morphologies and higher Yes-associated protein (YAP) activation were observed in hMSCs seeded on hydrogels with higher concentrations of stiff regions in a dose-dependent manner. However, when the spatial organization of the mechanically stiff regions was altered from a regular to randomized pattern, lower levels of YAP activation with smaller and more rounded cell morphologies were induced in hMSCs. We infer from these results that irregular, disorganized variations in matrix mechanics, compared with regular patterns, appear to disrupt actin organization, and lead to different cell fates; this was verified by observations of lower alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and higher expression of CD105, a stem cell marker, in hMSCs in random versus regular patterns of mechanical properties. Collectively, this material platform has allowed innovative experiments to elucidate a novel spatial mechanical dosing mechanism that correlates to both the magnitude and organization of spatial stiffness.
The Effect of Chronic Low Back Pain on Trunk Muscle Activations in Target Reaching Movements With Various Loads

Study Design. A cross-sectional study of the timing of trunk muscle activations between 19 participants with chronic low back pain (LBP) compared with 19 matched controls. Objective. To determine the effects of target height and load on trunk muscle coordination in whole body reaching tasks, and whether participants with chronic LBP display a shift in trunk muscle coordination performing these tasks. Summary of Background Data. Changes in the precise timing of trunk muscle activation may cause an initial episode of back pain, or contribute to the development of recurrent or chronic symptoms. However, most paradigms used to examine timing of trunk muscle activation did not necessitate large displacements of the trunk. Methods. Participants with and without chronic LBP performed a series of bilateral reaching tasks to 3 target heights with 3 different loads held in the reaching hands. During reaching, joint motions were recorded with an optoelectric system and surface electromyographic signals were collected bilaterally from 5 trunk muscles: rectus abdominis, external oblique, internal oblique, iliocostalis lumborum, and the multifidis, and bilaterally from the deltoid muscle. The onset latencies of the antagonist trunk muscles relative to the deltoid muscle were analyzed to determine the effects of group, target height and load. Results. Onset of trunk extensor muscles was significantly delayed in participants with chronic LBP compared with control subjects. Further, the onset latency of the antagonist trunk muscles increased with target distance, but decreased with target load. Conclusion. These findings suggest that a well documented control strategy generalizes beyond single joint movements and that individuals with chronic LBP display a shift in this strategy.
Contribution of MLH1 constitutional methylation for Lynch syndrome diagnosis in patients with tumor MLH1 downregulation

Constitutional epimutation of the two major mismatch repair genes, MLH1 and MSH2, has been identified as an alternative mechanism that predisposes to the development of Lynch syndrome. In the present work, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of MLH1 constitutional methylation in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with abnormal expression of the MLH1 protein in their tumors. In a series of 38 patients who met clinical criteria for Lynch syndrome genetic testing, with loss of MLH1 expression in the tumor and with no germline mutations in the MLH1 gene (35/38) or with tumors presenting the BRAF p.Val600Glu mutation (3/38), we screened for constitutional methylation of the MLH1 gene promoter using methylation‐specific multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MS‐MLPA) in various biological samples. We found four (4/38; 10.5%) patients with constitutional methylation in the MLH1 gene promoter. RNA studies demonstrated decreased MLH1 expression in the cases with constitutional methylation when compared with controls. We could infer the mosaic nature of MLH1 constitutional hypermethylation in tissues originated from different embryonic germ layers, and in one family we could show that it occurred de novo. We conclude that constitutional MLH1 methylation occurs in a significant proportion of patients who have loss of MLH1 protein expression in their tumors and no MLH1 pathogenic germline mutation. Furthermore, we provide evidence that MLH1 constitutional hypermethylation is the molecular mechanism behind about 3% of Lynch syndrome families diagnosed in our institution, especially in patients with early onset or multiple primary tumors without significant family history.
Flying vehicle longitudinal controller design via prey-predator pigeon-inspired optimization

Prey-Predator Pigeon-Inspired Optimization (PPPIO) is a new bio-inspired swarm intelligence algorithm which combines the standard PIO algorithm and the prey predator strategy to improve the optimal solution obtained from the PIO algorithm. PIO algorithm can easily trap into a local optimal solution, which is the main defect that limits its further application. To overcome this defect, a Prey-Predator PIO algorithm is proposed. This paper addresses both PIO and PPPIO in finding the optimal values for control system gains of tactical missile longitudinal autopilot. The control system gains are calculated at first the classical control techniques and then both PIO and PPPIO algorithms are utilized to find out optimal values for these gains which improves system performance and stability margins. Simulation is used to declare the efficiency of each algorithm.
Stored Ca2+ Depletion-induced Oligomerization of Stromal Interaction Molecule 1 (STIM1) via the EF-SAM Region

Stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) has recently been identified as a key player in store-operated Ca2+ entry. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) luminal Ca2+ depletion results in STIM1 redistribution from ER membrane homogeneity to distinctly localized aggregates near the plasma membrane; these changes precede and are linked to cytoplasmic Ca2+ influx via Ca2+ release-activated channels (CRACs). The molecular mechanisms initiating ER STIM1 redistribution and plasma membrane CRAC activity are not well understood. We recombinantly expressed the Ca2+-sensing region of STIM1 consisting of the EF-hand together with the sterile α-motif (SAM) domain (EF-SAM) to investigate its Ca2+-related conformational and biochemical features. We demonstrate that Ca2+-loaded EF-SAM (holo) contains high α-helicity, whereas EF-SAM in the absence of Ca2+ (apo) is much less compact. Accordingly, the melting temperature (Tm) of the holoform is ∼25 °C higher than apoform; heat and urea-derived thermodynamic parameters indicate a Ca2+-induced stabilization of 3.2 kcal mol–1. We show that holoEF-SAM exists as a monomer, whereas apoEF-SAM readily forms a dimer and/or oligomer, and that oligomer to monomer transitions and vice versa are at least in part mediated by changes in surface hydrophobicity. Additionally, we find that the Ca2+ binding affinity of EF-SAM is relatively low with an apparent dissociation constant (Kd) of ∼0.2–0.6 mm and a binding stoichiometry of 1. Our results suggest that EF-SAM actively participates in and is the likely the molecular trigger initiating STIM1 punctae formation via large conformational changes. The low Ca2+ affinity of EF-SAM is reconciled with the confirmed role of STIM1 as an ER Ca2+ sensor.
Four Carcinoembryonic Antigen Subfamily Members, CEA, NCA, BGP and CGM2, Selectively Expressed in the Normal Human Colonic Epithelium, Are Integral Components of the Fuzzy Coat

To elucidate which of the seven transcriptionally active genes of the carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) subfamily are expressed in human colon, we first examined mRNA expression using reverse transcriptase PCR. The result showed the CEA, nonspecific crossreacting antigen 50/90 (NCA), biliary glycoprotein (BGP), and carcinoembryonic antigen gene family member 2 (CGM2) mRNAs were expressed in the colon. To determine the cellular sources of these members within normal colonic mucosa, in situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry were then performed. CEA and NCA mRNAs were clearly detectable in the cytoplasm of columnar and goblet cells at the free luminal surface and the upper crypts with low hybridization in the mid crypt and the crypt base. In contrast, BGP and CGM2 mRNAs were restricted only to columnar cells at the upper third of the crypts and the luminal surface. Colon epithelium expression of CEA, NCA, BGP and CGM2 coincided with that of corresponding mRNAs. Ultrastructurally, CEA, NCA, BGP and CGM2 were localized mainly to the apical surface glycocalyx, the fuzzy coat, of columnar cells. Interestingly, these molecules were localized in different microdomains within the fuzzy coat. Furthermore, BGP was highly expressed in the fuzzy coat of cryptal caveolated cells. As integral components of the fuzzy coat, CEA, NCA, BGP and CGM2 can hardly function as intercellular adhesion molecules; they possibly play an important role in epithelial-microbial interactions.
Candida auris: an Emerging Fungal Pathogen

ABSTRACT Candida auris has emerged globally as a multidrug-resistant health care-associated fungal pathogen. Recent reports highlight ongoing challenges due to organism misidentification, high rates of antifungal drug resistance, and significant patient mortality. The predilection for transmission within and between health care facilities possibly promoted by virulence factors that facilitate skin colonization and environmental persistence is unique among Candida species. This minireview details the global emergence of C. auris and discusses issues relevant to clinical microbiology laboratories, hospital infection control, and antimicrobial stewardship efforts.
Geographic and Host-Associated Variations in Bacterial Communities on the Floret Surfaces of Field-Grown Broccoli

ABSTRACT Fresh vegetables harbor diverse bacterial populations on their surfaces. However, information on this microbiota is limited to a few types of fresh vegetables, and little is known about how it varies with geography and host condition. Here, we analyzed bacterial communities on the floret surfaces of 66 field-grown broccoli collected from 22 farms in four farming regions of Jeju Island, South Korea, using 454 pyrosequencing of 16S rRNA amplicons, and we determined their relationships to farming region and host-associated factors. Geographic variations in bacterial community composition and diversity were observed among farming regions, which partly reflected their relative humidity and insolation. The most abundant phyla were Proteobacteria, followed by Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes; core operational taxonomic units (OTUs) assigned to Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, Oxalobacteraceae, Comamonadaceae, and Enterobacteriaceae contributed to the community differences. Bacterial community composition differed between immature and mature samples, with mature samples harboring higher bacterial diversity. In comparison with communities on other types of fresh vegetables and fruits, bacterial communities on broccoli florets were unique but more similar to those of ground vegetables than to those of tree fruits/vegetables. This study presents novel data on the variability of floret-associated bacterial populations of field-grown broccoli relative to environmental and host-associated factors. IMPORTANCE Fresh vegetables harbor diverse and complex bacterial populations on their surfaces. These indigenous bacteria may play a role in human and crop health; however, the diversity and variability of bacterial communities on fresh vegetables require further study. A popular crop of leafy vegetables, broccoli, is of great agricultural and industrial importance. This study provides a detailed description of the bacterial community composition and diversity on the surfaces of broccoli florets. The variability of bacterial communities is associated with the geographic location of farming sites and is affected by host growth and health. The bacterial communities specific to broccoli were identified and showed greater similarity to those found on ground vegetables than to those found on tree fruits/vegetables. This study presents novel data on the impact of environmental and host-associated conditions on the variability of floret-associated bacterial populations present on field-grown broccoli.
Skin squames contribute to ammonia and volatile fatty acid production from bacteria colonizing in air‐cooling units with odor complaints

One of the most notable Indoor Air Quality problems is odor emission. This study investigated the potential contribution of skin squames to the production of ammonia (NH3 ) and volatile organic acids (VFAs) by 7 bacteria isolated from air-cooling (AC) units with complaints of urine and body odors. Our previous study showed that keratinolytic activity is higher in AC units with odor complaints than those without. In the offices where these units are located, the most likely source of keratins is from human skin squames. Most bacteria can produce NH3 and VFAs in the skin squame culture. Some correlations between the levels of NH3 , NH4+, VFAs, and keratinolytic activity were found. The odor production pathway with skin squames was proposed. Staphylococcus haemolyticus was abundant in the AC units with odor problems and had a high level of keratinolytic activity in addition to odor production. For long-term odor control, it is important to reduce the level of skin squames entering the AC units.
Effects of the mediterranean lifestyle program on multiple risk behaviors and psychosocial outcomes among women at risk for heart disease

Background: The Mediterranean Lifestyle Program was evaluated for its effects on multiple behavioral risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD) among postmenopausal women with diabetes.Purpose: Our purpose is to test a comprehensive lifestyle management intervention to reduce CHD risk in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes.Methods: Participants (N = 279) were randomized to usual care (UC) or Mediterranean Lifestyle Program, a lifestyle change intervention aimed at the behavioral risk factors (eating patterns, physical activity, stress management, and social support) affecting risk for CHD in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes.Results: In original and intent-to-treat analyses, Mediterranean Lifestyle Program participants showed significantly greater improvement in dietary behaviors, physical activity, stress management, perceived support, and weight loss at 6 months compared to UC.Conclusions: This study demonstrated the effectiveness of the Mediterranean Lifestyle Program in improving self-care among women with type 2 diabetes, showed that postmenopausal women could make comprehensive lifestyle changes, and provided evidence that a program using social-cognitive strategies and peer support can be used to modify multiple lifestyle behaviors.
Typical doses and dose rates in studies pertinent to radiation risk inference at low doses and low dose rates

Abstract In order to quantify radiation risks at exposure scenarios relevant for radiation protection, often extrapolation of data obtained at high doses and high dose rates down to low doses and low dose rates is needed. Task Group TG91 on ‘Radiation Risk Inference at Low-dose and Low-dose Rate Exposure for Radiological Protection Purposes’ of the International Commission on Radiological Protection is currently reviewing the relevant cellular, animal and human studies that could be used for that purpose. This paper provides an overview of dose rates and doses typically used or present in those studies, and compares them with doses and dose rates typical of those received by the A-bomb survivors in Japan.
Pre-travel health advice-seeking behavior among US international travelers departing from Boston Logan International Airport.

BACKGROUND Globally mobile populations are at higher risk of acquiring geographically restricted infections and may play a role in the international spread of infectious diseases. Despite this, data about sources of health information used by international travelers are limited. METHODS We surveyed 1,254 travelers embarking from Boston Logan International Airport regarding sources of health information. We focused our analysis on travelers to low or low-middle income (LLMI) countries, as defined by the World Bank 2009 World Development Report. RESULTS A total of 476 survey respondents were traveling to LLMI countries. Compared with travelers to upper-middle or high income (UMHI) countries, travelers to LLMI countries were younger, more likely to be foreign-born, and more frequently reported visiting family as the purpose of their trip. Prior to their trips, 46% of these travelers did not pursue health information of any type. In a multivariate analysis, being foreign-born, traveling alone, traveling for less than 14 days, and traveling for vacation each predicted a higher odds of not pursuing health information among travelers to LLMI countries. The most commonly cited reason for not pursuing health information was a lack of concern about health problems related to the trip. Among travelers to LLMI countries who did pursue health information, the internet was the most common source, followed by primary care practitioners. Less than a third of travelers to LLMI countries who sought health information visited a travel medicine specialist. CONCLUSIONS In our study, 46% of travelers to LLMI countries did not seek health advice prior to their trip, largely due to a lack of concern about health issues related to travel. Among travelers who sought medical advice, the internet and primary care providers were the most common sources of information. These results suggest the need for health outreach and education programs targeted at travelers and primary care practitioners.
A Multiband Dual-Polarized Omnidirectional Antenna for 2G/3G/LTE Applications

A multiband dual-polarized omnidirectional antenna for 2G/3G/Long Term Evolution (LTE) mobile communications is proposed in this letter, which consists of horizontal polarization (HP) and vertical polarization (VP) element with separate feeds. The VP element consists of three polygonal radiation patches with three equally spaced legs shorted to the ground plane. The HP element consists of three wideband slot loop structures, which is nested on the top of the VP element. Three slot loop structures provide a 360° coverage for HP and enhance its bandwidth. Both the simulated and measured results indicate that the frequency bands of 1650–2900 MHz for HP and 780–2700 MHz for VP can be achieved. The reflection of VP improves the gain of the HP element at least 1 dBi after nesting. The gain of HP element is more than 3 dBi for LTE, and the gain of VP element is more than 5 dBi in the LTE band and 1.5 dBi in the 2G band. Port isolation larger than 30 dB and low-gain variation levels are also obtained. The proposed antenna can be applied in mobile communications.
Quality-Aware Incentive Mechanism for Mobile Crowd Sensing

Mobile crowd sensing (MCS) is a novel sensing paradigm which can sense human-centered daily activities and the surrounding environment. The impact of mobility and selfishness of participants on the data reliability cannot be ignored in most mobile crowd sensing systems. To address this issue, we present a universal system model based on the reverse auction framework and formulate the problem as the Multiple Quality Multiple User Selection (MQMUS) problem. The quality-aware incentive mechanism (QAIM) is proposed to meet the quality requirement of data reliability. We demonstrate that the proposed incentive mechanism achieves the properties of computational efficiency, individual rationality, and truthfulness. And meanwhile, we evaluate the performance and validate the theoretical properties of our incentive mechanism through extensive simulation experiments.