Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Anti-inflammatory effect of vitamin D on gingivitis: a dose-response randomised control trial.

PURPOSE To assess the anti-inflammatory effect of vitamin D on gingivitis at various doses. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this randomized controlled trial, daily oral vitamin D supplementation was given in doses of 2000 IU for group A, 1000 IU for group B, 500 IU for group C and a placebo for group D over a 3-month period. The changes in gingival scores were measured after the 1st, 2nd and 3rd months. RESULTS The gingivitis score changed in direct proportion to the dose of vitamin D supplementation. In group A, the mean gingival scores were 2.4 (baseline), 1.7 after the first month, 0.8 after the second month and 0.3 after the third month. The group B mean baseline gingival score of 2.3 decreased to 2.0 in the first month, 1.1 after the second month and 0.5 after the third month. In group C, the baseline gingival scores were 2.2 and 1.9 after one month, 1.4 after two months and 0.8 by the last visit. Comparing baseline gingivitis scores with the later-visit score using the Wilcoxon paired test, the significant anti-inflammatory effect was seen in group A after one month, in group B at two months and in group C at three months after oral vitamin D supplementation (P < 0.0001). However, group D did not show a significant antiinflammatory effect. CONCLUSION There is a dose-dependent anti-inflammatory effect of vitamin D on gingivitis. Vitamin D is a safe and effective anti-inflammatory agent in doses ranging from 500 IU to 2000 IU. Results are apparent earlier with the higher dose of 2000 IU.
Low Complex Audio Encoding for Mobile, Multimedia

Computational resources in a mobile terminal and in wireless transmission channels set strict requirements for audio coding in mobile multimedia applications. This paper introduces, a low complex audio encoding method enabling high-quality audio for mobile multimedia. The presented method is the low complexity version of the extended AMR-WB audio encoder in the 3GPP standards. The encoder was designed based on requirements of the 3GPP multimedia messaging service (MMS)
The conserved role of protein restriction in aging and disease

Purpose of reviewDietary interventions are effective strategies for preventing disease and promoting health span. Many of the effects of dietary restriction are linked to amino acid and protein levels and their regulation of nutrient-signaling pathways. Thus, protein restriction is a promising therapeutic strategy for preventing aging-related diseases and extending life span. Recent findingsStudies in yeast and flies have shown that amino acid restriction promotes longevity and protection. In rodents, protein restriction extends life span and alleviates detrimental aging phenotypes. Finally, clinical trials in middle-aged adults have demonstrated the role of a protein-restricted diet in promoting health span. Interestingly, the population over the age of 65 may not benefit from severe protein restriction potentially because of the increased physiological decline that leads to decreased amino acid absorption and altered protein synthesis. SummaryProtein restriction can have profound effects on health and longevity, but excessive restriction is detrimental, particularly in the very old. The investigation of the mechanisms that modulate nutrient-sensing pathways is important to understand how regulation of protein intake can optimize health span and longevity.
Identification of Heroin Covered by Simulation Skin Using Energy Dispersive X-ray Diffraction and Coherence Function

An inspection technique based on energy dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDXRD) has been developed to provide chemically specific detection of samples. Implementing this technique and coupling with appropriate analysis algorithm provide specific material identification. Profile analysis has been performed using the Coherence Function. The Results suggest that it is feasible to recognize heroin covered by simulation skin through coherence function analysis method. Meanwhile, the coherence coefficient can also be made as criterion of characteristic signal recognization. Thus, heroin in the body may be identified automatically through this kind of technique.
Energetic funnel facilitates facilitated diffusion

Abstract Transcription factors (TFs) are able to associate to their binding sites on DNA faster than the physical limit posed by diffusion. Such high association rates can be achieved by alternating between three-dimensional diffusion and one-dimensional sliding along the DNA chain, a mechanism-dubbed facilitated diffusion. By studying a collection of TF binding sites of Escherichia coli from the RegulonDB database and of Bacillus subtilis from DBTBS, we reveal a funnel in the binding energy landscape around the target sequences. We show that such a funnel is linked to the presence of gradients of AT in the base composition of the DNA region around the binding sites. An extensive computational study of the stochastic sliding process along the energetic landscapes obtained from the database shows that the funnel can significantly enhance the probability of TFs to find their target sequences when sliding in their proximity. We demonstrate that this enhancement leads to a speed-up of the association process.
Conducted disturbance measurement system based on a GRID architecture

Thanks to the recent GRID technologies growth, in more research and industrial environments it is possible to obtain a number of benefits about the resources availability that could be shared in a fully trusted net architecture. GRID frameworks allow users to discover, monitor and control distributed resources on the net and to develop dedicated services for cooperative elaboration as well. This paper describes the design and realization of a GRID-based measurement system for assessing the electromagnetic conducted disturbances. In such a context, the GRID allows the access to remote acquisition nodes and implements an algorithm studied for pre-compliance analysis that takes advantage of the overall GRID. This kind of structure is useful in laboratories where a cluster for intensive data elaboration is not available.
The Arabidopsis Root Transcriptome by Serial Analysis of Gene Expression. Gene Identification Using the Genome Sequence1

Large-scale identification of genes expressed in roots of the model plant Arabidopsis was performed by serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE), on a total of 144,083 sequenced tags, representing at least 15,964 different mRNAs. For tag to gene assignment, we developed a computational approach based on 26,620 genes annotated from the complete sequence of the genome. The procedure selected warrants the identification of the genes corresponding to the majority of the tags found experimentally, with a high level of reliability, and provides a reference database for SAGE studies in Arabidopsis. This new resource allowed us to characterize the expression of more than 3,000 genes, for which there is no expressed sequence tag (EST) or cDNA in the databases. Moreover, 85% of the tags were specific for one gene. To illustrate this advantage of SAGE for functional genomics, we show that our data allow an unambiguous analysis of most of the individual genes belonging to 12 different ion transporter multigene families. These results indicate that, compared with EST-based tag to gene assignment, the use of the annotated genome sequence greatly improves gene identification in SAGE studies. However, more than 6,000 different tags remained with no gene match, suggesting that a significant proportion of transcripts present in the roots originate from yet unknown or wrongly annotated genes. The root transcriptome characterized in this study markedly differs from those obtained in other organs, and provides a unique resource for investigating the functional specificities of the root system. As an example of the use of SAGE for transcript profiling in Arabidopsis, we report here the identification of 270 genes differentially expressed between roots of plants grown either with NO3- or NH4NO3 as N source.
The association between lesion location, sex and poststroke depression: Meta‐analysis

Poststroke depression (PSD) is a common form of stroke patients. Whether the risk of PSD is influenced by the stroke lesion location and sex remains a matter of debate. The objective of this study was to examine the association between the risk of PSD and the stroke lesion location and sex by performing a systematic meta‐analysis.
Action of the 1,4‐dihydropyridine derivative, KW‐3049, on the smooth muscle membrane of the rabbit mesenteric artery

1 The effect of 1,4‐dihydro‐2,6‐dimethyl‐4‐(3‐nitrophenyl)‐3,5‐pyridine‐dicarboxylic acid methyl 1‐(phenylmethyl)‐3‐piperidinyl ester hydrochloride (KW‐3049) on the smooth muscle membrane of the rabbit mesenteric artery was investigated using microelectrode and single electrode voltage clamp methods. 2 In whole tissue preparations KW‐3049 did not alter the resting membrane potential of the artery, but did inhibit the action potential evoked by a depolarizing current in the presence of 10 mm tetraethylammonium (TEA). 3 Using the voltage clamp technique, the effects of KW‐3049 on the inward current evoked in solution containing 100 mm BaCl2 were observed. When the membrane was held at −60 mV, KW‐3049 inhibited the inward current in a concentration‐dependent manner. The inward current evoked by a larger depolarizing pulse was inhibited to a larger extent than that evoked by a smaller one. 4 When the membrane was held at −80 mV, the inward current evoked at test potentials of −10 and 0 mV was enhanced by low concentrations of KW‐3049 (below 100 nm). 5 KW‐3049 accelerated the rate of inactivation of the inward current and shifted the voltage‐dependent inactivation curve to the left. 6 KW‐3049 has a long‐lasting inhibitory action on smooth muscle cells, since the inhibition of the inward current persisted for over 1 h after the removal of KW‐3049. 7 Our results suggest that KW‐3049 has a selective and long‐lasting action on the Ca channels of the smooth muscle cell membrane of the rabbit mesenteric artery. This agent has both facilitatory and inhibitory actions on the Ca channel, depending on the values of the holding and command potentials.
Biochemical plasticity of synaptic transmission: a critical review of Dale's Principle.

"Dale's Principle" states that each neuron releases one and only one synaptic transmitter. Mental disorders and behavioral drug effects are attributed to activation or blockade of one or more of these specific transmitters. A series of biochemical, electrophysiological, and behavioral studies suggests the alternative view that at each monoaminergic synapse the action of the transmitter is modulated by several metabolically related substances: amine analogs (2-phenylethylamine [PEA], p-tyramine, etc.), deaminated products (aldehydes, acids, and alcohols), and possibly also amino acid precursors. In support of this view, the authors present evidence for the presence, synthesis, metabolism, and biological activity (at the cellular level, using microelectrode techniques) of amino acid, amines, and deaminated compounds metabolically related to catecholamines and sorotonin. That neuroamino acids exert direct effects (not mediated via their amine metabolites) is illustrated by the rapid effects of microiontophoretic dopa upon cortical unit activity, and by the observation that neither the lethargic effect of 5-hydroxytryptophan (considered to support Jouvet's serotonergic theory of sleep) nor the behavioral stimulant effects of dopa (considered to support the catecholamine theory of affective behavior) are significantly prevented by L-aromatic amino acid decarboxylase inhibitors. The biological activity of the deaminated metabolites of catecholamines and serotonin is illustrated by the effects of their microiontophoretic administration upon cortical units. Further, probenecid (an inhibitor of acid transport across the blood-brain barrier) is shown to qualitatively alter the effects of intraventricularly administered PEA and of its metabolite phenylacetic acid upon visual evoked potentials. Rabbit brain is shown to synthesize a series of pharmacologically active noncatecholic phenylethylamines as by-products of catecholamine metabolism. Amine modulators such as PEA differ from typical transmitters by their ability to cross biological barriers; inhibition of decarboxylase in peripheral tissues only (using alpha-methyldopa hydrazine) markedly depletes brain PEA (but not catecholamines). Because of the homeostatic control of the rate of transmitter synthesis and disposition, physiological, pharmacological, and pathological changes may be expected to affect more the tissue levels of related modulators. This modulator theory of drug action is illustrated by the effect of several psychotropic drugs upon the brain levels of PEA and of norepinephrine. For instance, amphetamine initially decreases and then increases brain PEA levels, without altering brain norepinephrine levels. The authors propose an expanded "Dale's Principle": each neuron is specific in that it releases at all its endings the same pool of chemical messengers, composed of one transmitter and metabolically related modulators, the relative proportion of which is determined by the physiological state of the cell (biochemical plasticity).
A fast 600-V Tandem PiN Schottky (TPS) rectifier with ultra-low on-state voltage

The Tandem PiN Schottky (TPS) rectifier features lowly-doped p-layers in both active and termination regions, and is applied in 600-V rating for the first time. In the active region, the Schottky contact is in series connection with a transparent p-layer, leading to a superior forward performance than the conventional diodes. In addition, due to the benefit of moderate hole injection from the p-layer, the TPS offers a better trade-off between the on-state voltage and the switching speed. The active p-layer also helps to stabilise the Schottky contact, and hence the electrical data distributions are more concentrated. Regarding the floating p-layer in the termination region, its purpose is to reduce the peak electric fields, and the TPS demonstrates a high breakdown voltage with a compact termination width, less than 70% of the state-of-the-art devices on the market. Experimental results have shown that the 600-V TPS rectifier has an ultra-low on-state voltage of 0.98 V at 250 A/cm2, a fast turn-off time of 75 ns by the standard RG1 test (IF=0.5A, IR=1A, and IRR=0.25A) and a breakdown voltage over 720 V. It is noteworthy that the p-layers in the active and termination regions can be formed at no extra cost for the use of self-alignment process.
Development of an algorithm to detect saccadic intrusions as an index of mental workload

This study describes how an algorithm was developed from a vision theory, so that the algorithm can quantify an amount of a specific type of eye movements, called saccadic intrusions. The second half of the paper describes the strong positive relationship between mental workload and saccadic intrusions. The results imply that the person's cognitive demand level can be accurately estimated from the eye movements at a correlation coefficient 0.84.
A Combined Approach for the Localization and Tandem Affinity Purification of Protein Complexes from Metazoans

An understanding of a protein's function is greatly aided by the knowledge of its localization in vivo and identification of any interacting partners. Here, we describe a method, based on expression of a genetically encoded fusion protein, that allows for protein localization and affinity purification (LAP) in metazoans. This method makes it possible to rapidly identify transformants and to conduct live imaging of protein localization and dynamics. In addition, the same tag can be used in a modified tandem affinity purification (TAP) procedure to isolate native protein complexes of high purity. The efficacy of this purification procedure allows for the characterization of rare protein complexes that are largely inaccessible to classical biochemical purifications. The LAP strategy should be widely applicable to the characterization of protein function in cellular and developmental contexts in various metazoans.
Perceptions of Social Media Impact on Social Behavior of Students: A Comparison between Students and Faculty

Social media has become pervasive, impacting the social fabric and culture of our society. This study investigates differences and similarities between students' and faculty's perceptions of social media impact on social behavior of students. Data were collected using a specially designed survey. The sample size was 2605 students and 507 faculty of different genders and ages. Research outcome indicates that students and faculty are familiar with and are immersed in social media use. The findings support the advantages of social media use on students' social behavior and do not indicate any obvious disadvantages. The findings of the study include identification of dominant group perceptions pertaining to advantages and disadvantages of social media use on social behavior of students. Common concerns of the two groups pertaining to students include physical inactivity, social introversion, exposure to bullying and domination attitudes; and mental dullness. These findings can help discern possible issues relating to use of social media affecting social behavior.
A Rethinking of RF Wireless Power Transfer: How to Re-Green the Future Networks?

Green radio communication is an emerging topic since the overall footprint of information and communication technology (ICT) services is predicted to triple between 2007 and 2020. Given this research line, energy harvesting (EH) and wireless power transfer (WPT) networks can be evaluated as promising approaches. In this paper, an overview of recent trends for future green networks on the platforms of EH and WPT is provided. By rethinking the application of radio frequency (RF)-WPT, a new concept, namely green RF-WTP, is introduced. Accordingly, opening challenges and promising combinations among current technologies, such as small-cell, millimeter (mm)-wave, and Internet of Things (IoT) networks, are discussed in details to seek solutions for the question with how to re-green the future networks?
Interleukin-1 (IL-1) Receptor-Associated Kinase-Dependent IL-1-Induced Signaling Complexes Phosphorylate TAK1 and TAB2 at the Plasma Membrane and Activate TAK1 in the Cytosol

ABSTRACT Interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor-associated kinase (IRAK) plays an important role in the sequential formation and activation of IL-1-induced signaling complexes. Previous studies showed that IRAK is recruited to the IL-1-receptor complex, where it is hyperphosphorylated. We now find that the phosphorylated IRAK in turn recruits TRAF6 to the receptor complex (complex I), which differs from the previous concept that IRAK interacts with TRAF6 after it leaves the receptor. IRAK then brings TRAF6 to TAK1, TAB1, and TAB2, which are preassociated on the membrane before stimulation to form the membrane-associated complex II. The formation of complex II leads to the phosphorylation of TAK1 and TAB2 on the membrane by an unknown kinase, followed by the dissociation of TRAF6-TAK1-TAB1-TAB2 (complex III) from IRAK and consequent translocation of complex III to the cytosol. The formation of complex III and its interaction with additional cytosolic factors lead to the activation of TAK1, resulting in NF-κB and JNK activation. Phosphorylated IRAK remains on the membrane and eventually is ubiquitinated and degraded. Taken together, the new data reveal that IRAK plays a critical role in mediating the association and dissociation of IL-1-induced signaling complexes, functioning as an organizer and transporter in IL-1-dependent signaling.
Development of a Cylindrical Neutron Generator using RF-driven Plasma

A compact cylindrical neutron generator using RF (radio-frequency) inductively-coupled plasma has been developed in radially convergent ion beam extraction configuration. Since the RF plasma source has characteristics of high plasma density, low gas pressure, high mono-atomic fraction, and long lifetime, it is known to be suitable for generating high neutron yield with high efficiency. In order to increase neutron yield, the energy and the number of incident particles should be as large as possible. Since the cylindrical source can be operated as a line source configuration the extracted beam current can be increased easily. In this paper, experimental results with the cylindrical neutron generator are given and the operating characteristics of the device are discussed to improve neutron generation efficiency
Evaluation of industrial by-products for the production of Bacillus thuringiensis strain GP139 and the pathogenicity when applied to Bemisia tabaci nymphs

Three industrial by-products were evaluated to produce Bacillus thuringiensis strain GP139: molasses with soybean flour, nejayote with sucrose, cheese-whey with sucrose and HCT as a control media. B. thuringiensis cultures were grown in 250-mL shaking flasks containing 100 mL of medium, 5.9 × 10 8 spores/mL and 1.36 mg/mL of total protein were obtained using molasses with soybean flour medium, and 4.95 × 10 8 spores/mL and 0.78 mg/mL of total protein were produced with the cheese-whey plus sucrose medium. HCT medium yielded a 2.71 × 10 8 spores/mL and 0.84 mg/mL of total protein, and finally, the nejayote and sucrose medium yielded 2.04 × 10 8 spores/mL and 0.54 mg/mL of total protein. In bioassays conducted under greenhouse conditions, no statistically significant differences were observed in the mortality of Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera Aleyrodidae) nymphs treated with the B. thuringiensis spore-crystal complexes produced using the four media compared with chemical insecticide.
Spontaneously regressed Kaposi’s sarcoma and human herpesvirus 8 infection in a human immunodeficiency virus‐negative patient

Kaposi’s sarcoma occurring in a 78‐year‐old woman, with the absence of the human immunodeficiency virus infection, was correctly diagnosed by immunohistochemistry using anti‐human herpesvirus 8 (HHV8) antibody (PA1‐73N) for the first time. The patient suffered from chronic respiratory failure and was treated with a low dose of steroids for 2.5 years. After her medication dosage was increased for the exacerbation of the respiratory failure, multiple skin tumors in her feet and legs suddenly developed. Histopathologically, skin tumors were suspected as Kaposi’s sarcoma at the first biopsy and reactive angiomatosis at the second biopsy. Polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry, however, revealed the presence of HHV8 DNA fragment and positive staining in the majority of spindle cells in the skin tumors. Serological examination confirmed the positivity of anti‐HHV8 antibodies. HHV8 infection and steroid‐induced immunosuppression, as well as environmental factors played a role in the development of Kaposi’s sarcoma in this patient, because she was born in Okinawa, which is a well‐known endemic area of Kaposi’s sarcoma in Japan. As her general condition improved, the skin lesions regressed without any specific treatment, and disappeared completely 8 months later, in which regression may be associated with evidence of numerous CD8 cell infiltration in the second biopsy tissues. No recurrence was observed during the following 6 month follow up.