Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Ca 2 1-induced Ca 2 1 Release in Chromaffin Cells Seen from inside the ER with Targeted Aequorin

The presence and physiological role of Ca 2 1 induced Ca 2 1 release (CICR) in nonmuscle excitable cells has been investigated only indirectly through measurements of cytosolic [Ca 2 1 ] ([Ca 2 1 ] c ). Using targeted aequorin, we have directly monitored [Ca 2 1 ] changes inside the ER ([Ca 2 1 ] ER ) in bovine adrenal chromaffin cells. Ca 2 1 entry induced by cell depolarization triggered a transient Ca 2 1 release from the ER that was highly dependent on [Ca 2 1 ] ER and sensitized by low concentrations of caffeine. Caffeine-induced Ca 2 1 release was quantal in nature due to modulation by [Ca 2 1 ] ER . Whereas caffeine released essentially all the Ca 2 1 from the ER, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP 3 )producing agonists released only 60–80%. Both InsP 3 and caffeine emptied completely the ER in digitoninpermeabilized cells whereas cyclic ADP-ribose had no effect. Ryanodine induced permanent emptying of the Ca 2 1 stores in a use-dependent manner after activation by caffeine. Fast confocal [Ca 2 1 ] c measurements showed that the wave of [Ca 2 1 ] c induced by 100-ms depolarizing pulses in voltage-clamped cells was delayed and reduced in intensity in ryanodine-treated cells. Our results indicate that the ER of chromaffin cells behaves mostly as a single homogeneous thapsigargin-sensitive Ca 2 1 pool that can release Ca 2 1 both via InsP 3 receptors or CICR.
Substance use disorders in individuals with body dysmorphic disorder.

BACKGROUND Little is known about substance use disorders (SUDs) in individuals with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Although studies have examined SUD comorbidity in BDD, no previous studies have examined clinical correlates of SUD comorbidity. METHOD We examined rates and clinical correlates of comorbid SUDs in 176 consecutive subjects with DSM-IV BDD (71% female; mean +/- SD age = 32.5 +/- 12.3 years). Comorbidity data were obtained with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV. BDD severity was assessed with the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale Modified for BDD, and delusionality (insight) was assessed with the Brown Assessment of Beliefs Scale. Quality of life and social/occupational functioning were examined using the Social Adjustment Scale, Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire, Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey, and Range of Impaired Functioning Tool. All variables were compared in BDD subjects with and without lifetime and current SUDs. Data were collected from January 2001 to June 2003. RESULTS 48.9% of BDD subjects (N = 86) had a lifetime SUD, 29.5% had lifetime substance abuse, and 35.8% had lifetime substance dependence (most commonly, alcohol dependence [29.0%]). 17% (N = 30) had current substance abuse or dependence (9.1% reported current substance abuse, and 9.7% reported current dependence). 68% of subjects with a lifetime SUD reported that BDD contributed to their SUD. There were far more similarities than differences between subjects with a comorbid SUD and those without an SUD, although those with a lifetime SUD had a significantly higher rate of suicide attempts (p = .004). CONCLUSION These preliminary results suggest that SUDs are very common in individuals with BDD. Subjects with and without a comorbid SUD were similar in most domains that were examined.
Telomerase activity in esophageal carcinoma

Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein that synthesizes telomeric DNA. Immortalized and carcinoma cells show no loss of telomere length during cell division. Telomerase activity has been demonstrated in carcinomas of various organs, but not in nonneoplastic tissues. In patients with esophageal carcinoma, no data have been reported concerning the relationship between telomerase activity and clinicopathological findings.
On Divergence-Angle Efficiency of a Laser Beam in Free-Space Optical Communications for High-Speed Trains

We compare narrow and wide laser beams in a free-space optical (FSO) communications system for high-speed train communications and analyze the tradeoffs among the received power, coverage area, and the complexity of the acquisition-tracking-pointing (ATP) mechanism. We propose to employ a divergence angle of a wide beam in the range [0.07<inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">$^{\circ }$</tex-math></inline-formula>, 2.002<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$^{\circ }$</tex-math></inline-formula>] to relax the steering speed of the fast steering mirror, which is a major component of the ATP mechanism in an FSO transceiver. In addition, we overcome the negative effects of train vibrations by using a proposed divergence-angle range for a wide beam. The proposed range of divergence angles provides a large link range and effective coverage length, and contact time as compared to a narrow beam.
Digital Evidence and Computer Crime: Forensic Science, Computers and the Internet

Digital Evidence and Computer Crime, Third Edition provides the knowledge necessary to uncover and use digital evidence effectively in any kind of investigation. The widely-adopted first and second editions introduced thousands of students to this field and helped them deal with digital evidence. This completely updated edition provides the introductory materials that new students require, and also expands on the material presented in previous editions to help students develop these skills. The textbook teaches how computer networks function, how they can be involved in crimes, and how they can be used as a source of evidence. Additionally, this third edition includes updated chapters dedicated to networked Windows, Unix, and Macintosh computers, and Personal Digital Assistants. Ancillary materials include an Instructor's Manual and PowerPoint slides. * Provides a thorough explanation of how computers & networks function, how they can be involved in crimes, and how they can be used as evidence * Features coverage of the abuse of computer networks and privacy and security issues on computer networks
From Paternalistic to User-Centred Security: Putting Users First with Value-Sensitive Design

Usable security research to date has focused on making users more secure, by identifying and addressing usability issues that lead users to making mistakes, or by persuading users to pay attention to security and make secure choices. However, security goals were set by security experts, who were unaware that users often have other priorities and value security differently. In this paper, we present examples of circumventions and non-adoption of secure systems designed under this paternalistic mindset. We argue that security experts need to identify user values and deliver on them. To do that, we need a methodological framework that can conceptualise values and identify those that impact user engagement with security. We show that (a) engagement with, and adherence to security, are mediated by user values, and that (b) it is necessary to model those values to understand the nature of security’s failures and to design viable alternatives.
Gamma interferon controls Eimeria vermiformis primary infection in BALB/c mice

Neutralization of endogenous gamma interferon by treatment with a rat monoclonal antibody caused enhancement of infection with the protozoon Eimeria vermiformis in naive BALB/c mice. The effect was dose dependent and was apparent when a monoclonal antibody was given at 2 h before infection or up to 7 days postinfection, but it decreased with increasing time postinfection between days 4 and 7. The titers of parasite-specific antibodies in the serum were not significantly affected by the injection of monoclonal antibodies. Treatment during priming did not prevent the development of resistance to challenge, and treatment at the time of challenge did not abrogate established immunity. The results indicate that gamma interferon is involved in the control of primary infection with E. vermiformis in BALB/c mice but not in the expression of immunity to challenge.
Unraveling a pathway to autism

A signaling pathway that controls protein synthesis may be a target for autism therapeutics [Also see Report by Bidinosti et al.] Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental disorders with shared symptoms in the area of communication and language, restricted interests, and stereotyped and social behaviors. Causes lie in perturbations of brain development, which can be manifold, but genetic factors are prominent among these. Genetic studies have pointed to hundreds of causative or susceptibility genes in ASD, making it difficult to find common underlying pathogenic mechanisms. Careful dissection of molecular and cellular mechanisms are needed to define the molecular targets that can translate into therapeutic strategies. On page 1199 of this issue, Bidinosti et al. (1) uncover defects in a molecular machinery of a genetic ASD mouse model. This allowed the authors to design specific chemical interventions that relieve cellular and behavioral autistic-like features. In addition, Yi et al. (2) report a channelopathy in neurons that may predispose to autism. The discoveries raise hope for developing new drugs that help patients with ASD.
Clinical outcomes and quality of life in hemodialysis diabetic patients versus non-diabetics

Background Diabetes is the leading cause of end stage renal disease (ESRD) worldwide. Objectives We compared the clinical outcomes in diabetic patients on hemodialysis (HD) with non-diabetics. Patients and Methods Adult maintenance HD patients (N= 532) from 9 HD facilities were enrolled to this prospective cohort study in September 2012. Causes of death, hospitalization, and HD exit were recorded in a median 28 months follow up period. Results Forty-one percent of patients were diabetic. Diabetic patients compared to non-diabetics had significantly higher age (62.2 ± 11.2 versus 53.1 ± 16.7 years), lower dialysis duration (median: 23 versus 30 months), more cardiovascular comorbidities (64% versus 28%) , higher C-reactive protein (CRP) levels (median: 3.80 versus 2.25 mg/L), lower serum albumin (3.86 ± 0.35 versus 3.93 ± 0.35 g/dL), lower intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) (median: 272 versus 374 ρg/mL), higher serum triglyceride (167 ± 91 versus 139 ± 67 mg/dL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) (82.5 ± 24.5 versus 77.5 ± 23.8 mg/dL), and worse short form health survey (SF36) score (45.7 ± 20.9 versus 52.7 ± 20.5). Annual admission rate was higher in diabetics (median: 0.86 versus 0.43) and diabetic foot involved 16% of their admissions. Transplantation rate was 4 and 9 per 100 patient years in diabetics and non-diabetics, respectively. Death rate was two folds higher in diabetics (24 versus 12 per 100 patient years). Cardiovascular diseases ( ± infections/other causes) comprised 80.5% of death in diabetics and 54.5% in non-diabetics. In Cox regression proportional hazard multivariate analysis, hazard risk of death in diabetics was 1.9 times higher than non-diabetics. Conclusions Clinical outcomes and health related quality of life (HRQOL) are much worse in diabetic compared to non-diabetic HD patients mainly due to more frequent of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
Study on the Organizational Culture Integration in the Post-M&A

By tracking the latest foreign literatures, this thesis selects the cultural perspective, and carefully analyses the post-merger cultural integration theory which has a strongly practical meaning, and has the urgent need for in-depth study. Based on learning theory, it puts forward to strongly practical application value of integrated intervention model of organizational culture. We hold that this thesis will be helpful for domestic researchers to attach much importance on the culture integration in the post-M&A.
Superconvergence Properties of Optimal Control Problems

An optimal control problem for a two-dimensional (2-d) elliptic equation is investigated with pointwise control constraints. This paper is concerned with discretization of the control by piecewise constant functions. The state and the adjoint state are discretized by linear finite elements. Approximations of the optimal solution of the continuous optimal control problem will be constructed by a projection of the discrete adjoint state. It is proved that these approximations have convergence order h2.
Sequence type 1 group B Streptococcus, an emerging cause of invasive disease in adults, evolves by small genetic changes

Significance Serotype V group B Streptococcus (GBS) infection rates in humans have steadily increased during the past several decades. We determined that 92% of bloodstream infections caused by serotype V GBS in Houston and Toronto are caused by genetically related strains called sequence type (ST) 1. Whole-genome analysis of 202 serotype V ST-1 strains revealed the molecular relationship among these strains and that they are closely related to a bovine strain. Moreover, we found that a subset of GBS genes is under selective evolutionary pressure, indicating that proteins produced by these genes likely contribute to GBS host–pathogen interaction. These data will assist in understanding how bacteria adapt to cause disease in humans, thereby potentially informing new preventive and therapeutic strategies. The molecular mechanisms underlying pathogen emergence in humans is a critical but poorly understood area of microbiologic investigation. Serotype V group B Streptococcus (GBS) was first isolated from humans in 1975, and rates of invasive serotype V GBS disease significantly increased starting in the early 1990s. We found that 210 of 229 serotype V GBS strains (92%) isolated from the bloodstream of nonpregnant adults in the United States and Canada between 1992 and 2013 were multilocus sequence type (ST) 1. Elucidation of the complete genome of a 1992 ST-1 strain revealed that this strain had the highest homology with a GBS strain causing cow mastitis and that the 1992 ST-1 strain differed from serotype V strains isolated in the late 1970s by acquisition of cell surface proteins and antimicrobial resistance determinants. Whole-genome comparison of 202 invasive ST-1 strains detected significant recombination in only eight strains. The remaining 194 strains differed by an average of 97 SNPs. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a temporally dependent mode of genetic diversification consistent with the emergence in the 1990s of ST-1 GBS as major agents of human disease. Thirty-one loci were identified as being under positive selective pressure, and mutations at loci encoding polysaccharide capsule production proteins, regulators of pilus expression, and two-component gene regulatory systems were shown to affect the bacterial phenotype. These data reveal that phenotypic diversity among ST-1 GBS is mainly driven by small genetic changes rather than extensive recombination, thereby extending knowledge into how pathogens adapt to humans.
Different Management Options for Tubo-Ovarian Abscess: A Tertiary Referral Center Experience

Objective: Tubo-ovarian abscess (TOA) is mostly a consequence of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). TOA is characterized by an inflammatory mass involving the fallopian tube, ovary and occasionally other adjacent pelvic organs. TOA is a serious life-threatening condition that must be diagnosed and managed immediately. Complete history and pelvic examination includes the most important part of the diagnosis. Surgery is necessary for both definitive diagnosis and treatment of TOA especially for suspicious abscess rupture or finding of a TOA in a postmenopausal woman. Our objective was to compare characteristics of patients who undergo surgical treatment and medical treatment.
VAMP3 Null Mice Display Normal Constitutive, Insulin- and Exercise-Regulated Vesicle Trafficking

ABSTRACT To investigate the physiological function of the VAMP3 vesicle SNARE (v-SNARE) isoform in the regulation of GLUT4 vesicle trafficking, we generated homozygotic VAMP3 null mice by targeted gene disruption. The VAMP3 null mice had typical growth rate and weight gain, with normal maintenance of fasting serum glucose and insulin levels. Analysis of glucose disposal and insulin sensitivity demonstrated normal insulin and glucose tolerance, with no evidence for insulin resistance. Insulin stimulation of glucose uptake in isolated primary adipocytes was essentially the same for the wild-type and VAMP3 null mice. Similarly, insulin-, hypoxia-, and exercise-stimulated glucose uptake in isolated skeletal muscle did not differ significantly. In addition, other general membrane trafficking events including phagocytosis, pinocytosis, and transferrin receptor recycling were also found to be unaffected in the VAMP3 null mice. Taken together, these data demonstrate that VAMP3 function is not necessary for either regulated GLUT4 translocation or general constitutive membrane recycling.
Effect of Thymosin-α1 on T-helper 1 Cell and T-helper 2 Cell Cytokine Synthesis in Patients with Hepatitis B Virus e Antigen-positive Chronic Hepatitis B

Thymosin-α1 (TA1) has been shown to be effective treatment for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. This study investigated the immune response after TA1 monotherapy in 25 HBV e antigen (HBeAg)-positive patients randomized to receive either 1.6 mg active TA1 (group A), 1.6 mg recombinant TA1 (group B) or 3.2 mg recombinant TA1 (group C) monotherapy for 52 weeks. The percentages of T-helper 1 (Th1) cytokine-producing T-cells (interleukin-2 [IL-2], interferon-γ [IFN-γ], tumour necrosis factor-α) and Th2 cytokine-producing T-cells (IL-4) were analysed using flow cytometry. In all patients treated with TA1, cytokine levels and the proportion of peripheral blood mononuclear cells producing these cytokines were significantly increased, compared with baseline and healthy controls. The proportions of each cytokine-producing cell increased gradually over time and were restored to normal levels, and proportions of IFN-γ and IL-4-producing cells reached higher levels than in normal (healthy) controls. The results showed that treatment with TA1 increased cytokine production, especially IFN-γ, and higher-dose TA1 exhibited better efficacy against HBV, compared with other treatments studied.
Have We Neglected the Role of Fetal Endothelium in Transplacental Transport?

Maternal‐to‐fetal transfer of nutrient and other substances occurs across the placental barrier (PB) which is made up of endothelial cells (EC) on the fetal side and the syncytiotrophoblast (STB) on the maternal side. Numerous studies were conducted to explore the transport characteristics across the STB layer, which is also considered as the major resistance for maternal‐to‐fetal exchange of materials. In contrast the layer of EC has received very little attention if at all. A recently developed viable co‐culture model of the PB revealed significant resistance of the EC layer for maternal‐to‐fetal transfer of glucose. This argues for a major contribution of the EC to overall transplacental transfer of nutrients. Accordingly, it is recommended to fill the void of knowledge and expand our understanding on the role of the feto‐placental endothelium for transplacental transport characteristics.
Pancreatic tumors: evaluation with endoscopic US, CT, and MR imaging.

PURPOSE To compare the value of endosonography (endoscopic ultrasound [US]), dynamic computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in the evaluation of pancreatic tumors. MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty-nine consecutive patients with clinical suspicion of pancreatic tumor underwent endoscopic US (n = 49), CT (n = 46), and MR imaging (n = 25). The final diagnosis of a malignant (n = 22), benign (n = 2), or inflammatory (n = 9) tumor, or no (n = 16) tumor was made at surgery (n = 28) and/or a combination of biopsy (n = 9) and 9-24-month follow-up (n = 12). RESULTS The sensitivity was 94% for endoscopic US, 69% for CT, and 83% for MR imaging. Specificity was 100% for endoscopic US, 64% for CT, and 100% for MR imaging. Accuracy was 96% for endoscopic US, 67% for CT, and 84% for MR imaging. The sensitivity for the detection of tumors less than 3 cm in diameter was 93% for endoscopic US (n = 15), 53% for CT (n = 15), and 67% for MR imaging (n = 12). CONCLUSION Endoscopic US is more accurate than dynamic CT and MR imaging in the diagnosis of pancreatic tumor, particularly for tumors less than 3 cm in diameter.
Spectral Filtering in a Diode-Pumped Nd : YLF Regenerative Amplifier Using a Volume Bragg Grating

LLE Review, Volume 110 115 Introduction Holographic volume Bragg gratings (VBG’s) represent a new class of robust, highly efficient, and spectrally selective optical elements that are recorded in photo-thermo-refractive glass.1 VBG’s have extremely high spectral and angular dispersions that are higher than any dispersive elements previously used. VBG’s are stable at elevated temperatures, have a high optical-damage threshold similar to that of bulk glass materials, and have high diffraction efficiency and low losses, allowing their use in laser resonators.
SLAM with 3Dimensional-GNSS

This paper presents a 3Dimensional-GNSS (3D-GNSS) positioning technique, which is used for localization and mapping simultaneously (SLAM). The 3D building model becomes an important aid to many positioning techniques such as LiDAR and GPS positioning methods. In order to automatically create the accurate map in wide area, the precise position of mobile mapping platform is needed. However, GNSS positioning performance is severely degraded because of the effects of multipath and Non-Line-Of-Sight (NLOS) in the urban area. With the aid of 3D building map, the proposed 3D-GNSS distinguishes whether the received GNSS signal is transmitted as LOS or NLOS path, and can calculate the length of reflection path for the improvement of positioning error. To achieve highly accurate positioning in urban canyon, we further develop 3D-GNSS based integrated vehicle self-localization system, which is comprised of 3D-GNSS, inertial sensor and vision sensor. On the other hand, highly precise positioning needs the accurate 3D building map. Inspired by the idea of 3D-GNSS, this paper proposes to optimize the 3D building map by estimating the reflection of GNSS signals. In addition, the position of mobile mapping platform is estimated from our integrated localization system in the mapping stage. The experimental result demonstrates that sub-meter accuracy is achieved in both localization and mapping.