Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
ADVANCES IN THE ASSESSMENT OF DISORDERS OF CONSCIOUSNESS : THE ROLE OF BEDSIDE ASSESSMENT AND NEUROIMAGING TECHNIQUES IN THE DIAGNOSTIC PROCESS

the great challenges of contemporary neuroscience. Although the scientific community does not have a universally accepted definition of consciousness, the field of clinical neuroscience uses an operational definition that can be utilised in the bedside examination of the patient (Laureys, Perrin, & Bredart, 2007). In this context, consciousness is considered to be a complex system with two key dimensions: the level of consciousness or alertness (known as ‘wakefulness’ in the literature), and the content of consciousness or consciousness per se (known as ‘awareness’ in the literature) (Plum & Posner, 1982). The former refers to a state in which the eyes are open and there is a motor response. The latter encompasses both self-awareness and awareness of the environment, and refers to the ability to have subjective experiences of any kind. These two dimensions are related to very different brain mechanisms and networks. The level of consciousness depends on the ascending reticular activating system and its cortical connections (Parvizi & Damasio, 2001), while the content of consciousness depends on complex cortical-cortical and subcortical-cortical networks, which are not yet fully understood (Schiff, 2008). Because of the hierarchical relationship between these two systems, it is considered that a patient must have some preservation of the structures of wakefulness in order to have subjective experiences (awareness). Conversely, a patient may be alert but it should not be assumed that they are therefore aware of ADVANCES IN THE ASSESSMENT OF DISORDERS OF CONSCIOUSNESS: THE ROLE OF BEDSIDE ASSESSMENT AND NEUROIMAGING TECHNIQUES IN THE DIAGNOSTIC PROCESS
Word Embeddings and Gender Stereotypes in Swedish and English

A word embedding is a representation of words as vectors. After Mikolov et al. introduced the algorithm word2vec in 2013, the popularity of word embeddings exploded. Not only was the new algorithm much more efficient, but it also produced embeddings that exhibited an interesting property allowing for reasoning with analogies such as ”he is to king as she is to queen”. Later it was discovered that the embeddings contained different types of biases, such as gender bias. We first look at how word embeddings are constructed and then investigate what it means mathematically to create an analogy between words. By creating a new way of measuring how good analogies are we make it possible to extend and improve earlier methods. For creating word embeddings we use the techniques earlier applied to English to Swedish. We find that Swedish can be represented just as well as English in an embedding and exhibits many of the same biases. We also compare gender bias in Swedish and English embeddings directly using a new method.
Controlled gene expression systems for Lactococcus lactis with the food-grade inducer nisin

The kinetics, control, and efficiency of nisin-induced expression directed by the nisA promoter region were studied in Lactococcus lactis with transcriptional and translational fusions to the gusA reporter genes. In the nisin-producing L. lactis strain NZ9700, the specific beta-glucuronidase activity increased very rapidly after mid-exponential growth until the maximum level at the start of the stationary phase was reached. Expression of the gusA gene was also studied in L. lactis NZ9800, an NZ9700 derivative carrying a deletion in the structural nisA gene that abolishes nisin production, and in L. lactis NZ3900, an MG1363 derivative containing the regulatory nisRK genes integrated in the chromosome. In both strains, beta-glucuronidase activity was linearly dependent on the amount of nisin added to the medium. Without nisin, no beta-glucuronidase production was observed. To optimize translation initiation, an expression vector was constructed by fusing the gusA gene translationally to the start codon of the nisA gene. Use of the translational fusion vector yielded up to six times more beta-glucuronidase activity than the transcriptional fusion vector in these strains after induction by nisin. In this way, gene expression can be achieved in a dynamic range of more than 1,000-fold. The beta-glucuronidase activity was found to be up to 25-fold higher in extracts of strain NZ3900 than in extracts of strain NZ9800. This translational fusion vector was used for high-level production of aminopeptidase N, up to 47% of the total intracellular protein. These results clearly illustrate the potential of the nisin-inducible expression system for overproduction of desired proteins.
Using flexible Ethernet to build a flexible network

Based on network processor and traffic management processor, packet devices can generate flows with specified bandwidths. Unfortunately, fixed-bandwidth Ethernet interface hides the flexibility of packet devices and packet devices can just provide single flow with fixed bandwidth. Flexible Ethernet introduced in this paper can divide Ethernet interface into several sub-Ethernet interfaces and the bandwidth of each sub-Ethernet interface is configurable. Based on this feature, flexible Ethernet can be used to build a flexible network for traffic optimization, and it also can be used for IP&Optical synergy towards IP offloading.
CYTOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF ROOT TIPS AS A TOOL TO EVALUATE ABIOTIC STRESSES: AN APPLICATION WITH NaCl AND H2O2 TREATMENTS IN Allium cepa L

Usually, little attention is given to the consequences of abiotic stresses on cell division, cytological damage, and possible mutagenic and genotoxic effects. In this study, we tested a cytological approach to assess the occurrence of chromosomal abnormalities and possible disturbances in the mitotic cycle after salt stress conditions and exposure to H2O2. Bulbs of Allium cepa L. were treated with 75 mM NaCl, 150 mM NaCl or 80 μM H2O2 treatments and root tips were collected after 24 h. Histological slides were prepared and the occurrence of each mitotic phase and chromosomal abnormalities were analysed in an optic microscope. Our results showed lower mitosis rate and higher relative chromosomal abnormalities values after NaCl stress in comparison with the control. Root tips treated with 80 μM H2O2 displayed the highest mitotic index among all treatments and a relative chromosomal abnormalities value lower than the 75 mM NaCl treatment. In conclusion, our data reinforce the knowledge about the cytotoxic effects of NaCl in roots and highlight positive effects of low concentrations of H2O2 on root cell division. We estimate that cytological analysis of root tips is a simple, inexpensive, and efficient method to assess levels of different abiotic stresses in roots.
Adverse Experiences in Early Childhood and Kindergarten Outcomes

OBJECTIVE: To examine associations between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in early childhood and teacher-reported academic and behavioral problems in kindergarten. METHODS: We conducted a secondary analysis of data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study, a national urban birth cohort. Subjects with primary caregiver-reported information on ACE exposures ascertained at 5 years and teacher-reported outcomes at the end of the child’s kindergarten year were included. Outcomes included teacher ratings of academic skills, emergent literacy skills, and behavior. We included 8 ACE exposures on the basis of the original Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Kaiser study and created an ACE score by summing individual adversities. We examined the associations between teacher-reported academic and behavioral outcomes and ACE scores by using logistic regression. RESULTS: In the study sample, 1007 children were included. Fifty-five percent had experienced 1 ACE and 12% had experienced ≥ 3. Adjusting for potential confounders, experiencing ≥ 3 ACEs was associated with below-average language and literacy skills (adjusted odds ratio [AORs]: 1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1–2.9) and math skills (AOR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.1–2.9), poor emergent literacy skills, attention problems (AOR: 3.5, 95% CI: 1.8–6.5), social problems (AOR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.4–5.0), and aggression (AOR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.2–4.6). CONCLUSIONS: In this study of urban children, experiencing ACEs in early childhood was associated with below-average, teacher-reported academic and literacy skills and behavior problems in kindergarten. These findings underscore the importance of integrated approaches that promote optimal development among vulnerable children.
Predicting Cardiovascular Risk Factors by dIfferent Body Fat Patterns in 3850 German Children: the PEP Family Heart Study

Objectives: Increased central adiposity is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in youths. Since simple and inex-pensive but accurate diagnostic tools are required for general use in clinical practice, we examined body mass index (BMI), waist circumfe-rence (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and skin-fold thickness (SFT) for their utility in predicting CVD risk factors in children. Methods: A representative sample of 3850 children (1981 males) aged, 3-11years, participated in this cross-sectional study. The association of CVD risk factors with BMI > 85th, WC > 90th, WHtR > 90th and SFT > 90th percentile was examined by multivariate logistic regression models. SPSS17was used for statistical analyses; P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: In studied children the prevalence of increased general adi-posity (BMI 4.1%) was considerably lower than the prevalence of high central adiposity (WC 11.8%, WHtR 9.5% and SFT sum 9.8%). Girls had more adverse lipid profiles and CVD risk factors than boys. Age-and gender- adjusted hypertension was significantly associated with adiposity (OR: 2.8) and increased skin-fold thickness (OR: 1.7). Among the four fat patterning variables WHtR > 90th percentile had the strongest association with increased LDL-C (OR: 2.0), Non HDL-C (OR: 2.1), LDL-C/HDL-C ratio (OR: 3.3), TG/HDL-C ratio (OR: 2.0) and risk factor clustering (OR: 1.7). Conclusions: Among the children studied, increased (WtHR) was the strongest predictor of traditional CDV risk factors, followed by in-creased skin-fold thickness and BMI.
Exploring Teachers’ Perceptions with the Narrative Inquiry Approach

Within social research, moving beyond traditional methods of inquiry and away from numbers, variables, tables and questionnaires researchers can judiciously adopt the narrative inquiry approach of knowing and interpreting. Narratives are a medium for teachers to reflect on their teaching practices and explore options to develop better approaches. This research methodology, when used in the context of teaching and learning, offers a means to reconnoitre teachers‟ concerns, roles and performance. Narrative is a likely way of making sense into the experience that has a particular value in fostering teachers‟ reflective thinking
Fabio Fossati Hybrid what ? The contemporary debate on hybrid regimes and the identity question

After a decade during which the image of an undying and relentless third wave of democratization overshadowed the actual nature of many processes of regime transition throughout the globe, the notion of hybrid regime has finally gained scholars’ attention. Unfortunately, the contemporary launching of different lines of inquiry, along with the rapidity according to which a considerable amount of literature has been published, has resulted in a certain confusion. Because of the scant dialogue of these studies with each other, the current research on hybrid regimes is failing the important goal of building a shared theoretical ground. All this hampers the accumulation of knowledge and undermine the value of future research. The aim of this paper is to call the attention on this issue and to contribute to fill this gap. It will try to do so starting from quite a basic point: the actual identity of these regimes.
Differential regulation of D2 receptor gene expression by transcription factor AP‐1 in cultured cells

The role of the transcription factor AP‐1 in regulating D2 receptor transcriptional activity was investigated in D2 receptor expressing neuroblastoma cells, NB41A3, and in non‐D2 receptor expressing CHO cells. Deletion of a region containing the putative AP‐1 binding site resulted in a significant reduction in the activity in CHO cells; while the activity in NB41A3 cells was increased suggesting that the AP‐1 site may differentially regulate D2 gene expression in these distinct cell types. However, both cell lines were found to express significant and similar levels of the transcription factors AP‐1. Analysis of phosphorylated proteins in each of the cell lines provided evidence that AP‐1 is phosphorylated in NB41A3 cells, but not in CHO cells. This result suggests that differential regulation of D2 gene expression may be related to AP‐1 phosphorylation. J. Neurosci. Res. 50:23–31, 1997. © 1997 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lateral Epicondylitis

Background Surgical management of lateral epicondylitis has traditionally consisted of an open incision with debridement of the affected extensor tendon tissue. More recently, arthroscopy has been reported as a surgical option for this condition. Purpose To evaluate the effectiveness of arthroscopic debridement in excising the characteristic tendinopathy of chronic lateral epicondylitis and determine if residual tendinopathy correlated with poorer patient outcomes. Study Design Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods Data were prospectively collected on all patients who underwent arthroscopic debridement of chronic lateral epicondylitis during a 2-year period. The arthroscopic debridement was assessed in regard to its effectiveness in excising the characteristic tendinopathy through a traditional open procedure by gross and histologic analysis. Outcomes data were collected on all patients preoperatively and at a minimum of 1 year postoperatively. Patient outcomes were then correlated with the residual histologic tendinopathy after arthroscopic debridement. Results Eighteen patients were enrolled in the investigation. Gross evidence of residual tendinopathy was identified in 6 patients, with all 6 cases occurring during the first year of the study. Of the 18 patients, 10 had residual histologic evidence of tendinopathy after arthroscopic debridement. Poorer outcomes were identified in those patients who had residual histologic tendinopathy on their rating of worst level of pain (P = .03). Conclusion Residual microscopic tendinopathy is often present after arthroscopic debridement. Clinically, residual microscopic tendinopathy correlated with poorer surgical outcomes in regard to patient's rating of their worst level of pain.
Performance analysis of Packet Loss Concealment in mobile environments with a two-state loss model

This paper presents and exercises a model to estimate the performance of Packet Loss Concealment (PLC) in wireless field environments. In particular, we estimate the probability of successfully receiving a random packet transmitted over an unreliable wireless link where a packet loss concealment algorithm such as the IETF's RFC 2198 standard schemes 1 and 2 are used. The model assumes a channel with a two-state loss system. Results generated are useful in understanding how packet loss concealment schemes can be designed to support high quality for real-time wireless applications such as VoIP on ad hoc networks.
Oxidative Stress in Neurodegenerative Diseases: From a Mitochondrial Point of View

Age is the main risk factor for a number of human diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, which increasing numbers of elderly individuals suffer. These pathological conditions are characterized by progressive loss of neuron cells, compromised motor or cognitive functions, and accumulation of abnormally aggregated proteins. Mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the main features of the aging process, particularly in organs requiring a high-energy source such as the heart, muscles, brain, or liver. Neurons rely almost exclusively on the mitochondria, which produce the energy required for most of the cellular processes, including synaptic plasticity and neurotransmitter synthesis. The brain is particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress and damage, because of its high oxygen consumption, low antioxidant defenses, and high content of polyunsaturated fats very prone to be oxidized. Thus, it is not surprising the importance of protecting systems, including antioxidant defenses, to maintain neuronal integrity and survival. Here, we review the role of mitochondrial oxidative stress in the aging process, with a specific focus on neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding the molecular mechanisms involving mitochondria and oxidative stress in the aging and neurodegeneration may help to identify new strategies for improving the health and extending lifespan.
MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMIC-PARTICLE-IN-CELL METHOD FOR COUPLING COSMIC RAYS WITH A THERMAL PLASMA: APPLICATION TO NON-RELATIVISTIC SHOCKS

We formulate a magnetohydrodynamic-particle-in-cell (MHD-PIC) method for describing the interaction between collisionless cosmic ray (CR) particles and a thermal plasma. The thermal plasma is treated as a fluid, obeying equations of ideal MHD, while CRs are treated as relativistic Lagrangian particles subject to the Lorentz force. Backreaction from CRs to the gas is included in the form of momentum and energy feedback. In addition, we include the electromagnetic feedback due to CR-induced Hall effect that becomes important when the electron–ion drift velocity of the background plasma induced by CRs approaches the Alfvén velocity. Our method is applicable on scales much larger than the ion inertial length, bypassing the microscopic scales that must be resolved in conventional PIC methods, while retaining the full kinetic nature of the CRs. We have implemented and tested this method in the Athena MHD code, where the overall scheme is second-order accurate and fully conservative. As a first application, we describe a numerical experiment to study particle acceleration in non-relativistic shocks. Using a simplified prescription for ion injection, we reproduce the shock structure and the CR energy spectra obtained with more self-consistent hybrid-PIC simulations, but at substantially reduced computational cost. We also show that the CR-induced Hall effect reduces the growth rate of the Bell instability and affects the gas dynamics in the vicinity of the shock front. As a step forward, we are able to capture the transition of particle acceleration from non-relativistic to relativistic regimes, with momentum spectrum f ( p ) ∝ p − 4 ? > connecting smoothly through the transition, as expected from the theory of Fermi acceleration.
Biomechanics of slips

The biomechanics of slips are an important component in the prevention of fall-related injuries. The purpose of this paper is to review the available literature on the biomechanics of gait relevant to slips. This knowledge can be used to develop slip resistance testing methodologies and to determine critical differences in human behaviour between slips leading to recovery and those resulting in falls. Ground reaction forces at the shoe-floor interface have been extensively studied and are probably the most critical biomechanical factor in slips. The ratio of the shear to normal foot forces generated during gait, known as the required coefficient of friction (RCOF) during normal locomotion on dry surfaces or ‘friction used/achievable’ during slips, has been one biomechanical variable most closely associated with the measured frictional properties of the shoe/floor interface (usually the coefficient of friction or COF). Other biomechanical factors that also play an important role are the kinematics of the foot at heel contact and human responses to slipping perturbations, often evident in the moments generated at the lower extremity joints and postural adaptations. In addition, it must be realized that the biomechanics are dependent upon the capabilities of the postural control system, the mental set of the individual, and the perception of the environment, particularly, the danger of slipping. The focus of this paper is to review what is known regarding the kinematics and kinetics of walking on surfaces under a variety of environmental conditions. Finally, we discuss future biomechanical research needs to help to improve walkway-friction measurements and safety.
Traditional System of Medicine and Nutritional Supplementation: Use vs. Regulation

Food is the major source for serving the nutritional needs, but with growing modernization some traditional ways are being given up. Affluence of working population with changing lifestyles and reducing affordability of sick care, in terms of time and money involved, are some of the forces that are presently driving people towards thinking about their wellness. There has been increased global interest in traditional medicine. Efforts to monitor and regulate traditional herbal medicine are underway. Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicine, remains the most ancient yet living traditions. Although India has been successful in promoting its therapies with more research and science-based approach, it still needs more extensive research and evidence base. Increased side effects, lack of curative treatment for several chronic diseases, high cost of new drugs, microbial resistance and emerging, diseases are some reasons for renewed public interest in complementary and alternative medicines. Numerous nutraceutical combinations have entered the international market through exploration of ethnopharmacological claims made by different traditional practices. This review gives an overview of the Ayurvedic system of medicine and its role in translational medicine in order to overcome malnutrition and related disorders. Many of the scientific and regulatory challenges that exist in research on the safety, quality and efficacy of dietary supplements are common to all countries as the marketplace for them becomes increasingly global. This article summarizes some of the challenges in supplement science and provides a case study of research at the Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health, USA, along with some resources it has developed that are available to all scientists. It includes examples of some of the regulatory challenges faced and some resources for those who wish to learn more about them.
New method for discharge hydrograph measurement of the free overflow with full-width , thin-plate weir

The current standards recommend measuring water discharge with vented thin-plate weirs. The ventilation of full-width, thin-plate weirs during discharge hydrograph measurement still poses a problem. An experimental study regarding the design of a new type of ventilating device for hydrograph measurement was performed from 20 October through 5 December 2015 which proved that this device can be used measuring discharge at ventilated nappe according to standard recommendations. During the second part of the experiment, an opportunity was provided for measuring the discharge at non-ventilated nappe as a function of Reynolds and Weber numbers.