Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Differential regulation of centrosome integrity by DNA damage response proteins

MDC1 and BRIT1 have been shown to function as key regulators in response to DNA damage. However, their roles in centrosomal regulation haven’t been elucidated. In this study, we demonstrated the novel functions of these two molecules in regulating centrosome duplication and mitosis. We found that MDC1 and BRIT1 were integral components of the centrosome that colocalize with γ-tubulin. Depletion of either protein led to centrosome amplification. However, the mechanisms that allow them to maintain centrosome integrity are different. MDC1-depleted cells exhibited centrosome overduplication, leading to multipolar mitosis, chromosome missegregation, and aneuploidy, whereas BRIT1 depletion led to misaligned spindles and/or lagging chromosomes with defective spindle checkpoint activation that resulted in defective cytokinesis and polyploidy. We further illustrated that both MDC1 and BRIT1 were negative regulators of Aurora A and Plk1, two centrosomal kinases involved in centrosome maturation and spindle assembly. Moreover, the levels of MDC1 and BRIT1 inversely correlated with centrosome amplification, defective mitosis, and cancer metastasis in human breast cancer. Together, MDC1 and BRIT1 may function as tumor-suppressor genes, at least in part by orchestrating proper centrosome duplication and mitotic spindle assembly.
Effects of Anesthetic Isoflurane and Desflurane on Human Cerebrospinal Fluid A&bgr; and &tgr; Level

Background:Accumulation of &bgr;-amyloid protein (A&bgr;) and tau protein is the main feature of Alzheimer disease neuropathogenesis. Anesthetic isoflurane, but not desflurane, may increase A&bgr; levels in vitro and in animals. Therefore, we set out to determine the effects of isoflurane and desflurane on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of A&bgr; and tau in humans. Methods:The participants were assigned into spinal anesthesia (N = 35), spinal plus desflurane anesthesia (N = 33), or spinal plus isoflurane anesthesia (N = 38) group by randomization using computer-generated lists. Pre- and postoperative human CSF samples were obtained through an inserted spinal catheter. The levels of A&bgr; (A&bgr;40 and A&bgr;42) and total tau in the CSF were determined. Results:Here, we show that isoflurane, but not desflurane, was associated with an increase in human CSF A&bgr;40 levels (from 10.90 to 12.41 ng/ml) 24 h after the surgery under anesthesia compared to spinal anesthesia (from 11.59 to 11.08 ng/ml), P = 0.022. Desflurane, but not isoflurane, was associated with a decrease in A&bgr;42 levels 2 h after the surgery under anesthesia (from 0.39 to 0.35 ng/ml) compared to spinal anesthesia (from 0.43 to 0.44 ng/ml), P = 0.006. Isoflurane and desflurane did not significantly affect the tau levels in human CSF. Conclusions:These studies have established a system to study the effects of anesthetics on human biomarkers associated with Alzheimer disease and cognitive dysfunction. These findings have suggested that isoflurane and desflurane may have different effects on human CSF A&bgr; levels.
Response to “Rapid tests for HIV type discrimination in West Africa may perform differently”

Our study was not designed to evaluate the performances of the two rapid HIV tests, namely Genie II® HIV-1/HIV-2 (BioRad) and SD Bioline® HIV-1/2 3.0 (Standard Diagnostics). Our aim as epidemiologists and clinicians was to clearly make the difference between HIV-1, HIV-2 and dually infected patients, as it is critical for selecting an appropriate treatment strategy. For this purpose, we used the most suitable HIV tests, ImmunoCombII® HIV-1&2 BiSpot (Alere) and an in-house Elisa test. (Published: 29 January 2015) Citation: Tchounga BK et al. Journal of the International AIDS Society 2015, 18 :19380 http://www.jiasociety. org/index.php/jias/article/view/19380 | http://dx.doi. org/10.7448/IAS.18. 1.19380
Gadolinium-based Contrast Agent Accumulates in the Brain Even in Subjects without Severe Renal Dysfunction: Evaluation of Autopsy Brain Specimens with Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy.

PURPOSE To use inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) to evaluate gadolinium accumulation in brain tissues, including the dentate nucleus (DN) and globus pallidus (GP), in subjects who received a gadolinium-based contrast agent (GBCA). MATERIALS AND METHODS Institutional review board approval was obtained for this study. Written informed consent for postmortem investigation was obtained either from the subject prior to his or her death or afterward from the subject's relatives. Brain tissues obtained at autopsy in five subjects who received a linear GBCA (GBCA group) and five subjects with no history of GBCA administration (non-GBCA group) were examined with ICP-MS. Formalin-fixed DN tissue, the inner segment of the GP, cerebellar white matter, the frontal lobe cortex, and frontal lobe white matter were obtained, and their gadolinium concentrations were measured. None of the subjects had received a diagnosis of severely compromised renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate <45 mL/min/1.73 m(2)) or acute renal failure. Fisher permutation test was used to compare gadolinium concentrations between the two groups and among brain regions. RESULTS Gadolinium was detected in all specimens in the GBCA agent group (mean, 0.25 µg per gram of brain tissue ± 0.44 [standard deviation]), with significantly higher concentrations in each region (P = .004 vs the non-GBCA group for all regions). In the GBCA group, the DN and GP showed significantly higher gadolinium concentrations (mean, 0.44 µg/g ± 0.63) than other regions (0.12 µg/g ± 0.16) (P = .029). CONCLUSION Even in subjects without severe renal dysfunction, GBCA administration causes gadolinium accumulation in the brain, especially in the DN and GP.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF MANUFACTURING - AN ANALYSIS OF OUTSOURCING STRATEGIES IN THREE COMPANIES

In this paper we analyse how the role of manufacturing and use of manufacturing competence changes when outsourcing. The analysis is based on three case studies representing three different outsourcing strategies. The study indicates that manufacturing competence is of significant importance not only for efficient manufacturing, but also for new product design and procurement, regardless of the extent of outsourcing. The different ways of integrating manufacturing with various functions and processes both within the organisation and with suppliers are discussed.
Effect of Neuromuscular Training on Balance among University Athletes

Background: Proprioceptive deficiency followed by lateral ankle sprain leads to poor balance is not uncommon. It has been linked with increased injury risk among young athletes. Introducing neuromuscular training programs for this have been believed as one of the means of injury prevention. Hence, this study was aimed to determine the effects of six weeks progressive neuromuscular training (PNM Training) on static balance gains among the young athletes with a previous history of ankle sprains. Methods: This study was an experimental study design, with pre and post test method to determine the effects of PNM Training on static balance gains. All data were collected at university’s sports rehabilitation lab before and after six weeks of intervention period. There were 20 male and female volunteer young athletes (20.9 ± 0.85 years of age) with a previous history of ankle sprain involving various sports were recruited from the University community. All the subjects were participated in a six week PNM Training that included stability, strength and power training. Outcome measures were collected by calculating the errors on balance error scoring system made by the athletes on static balance before and after the six weeks of intervention period. Static balance was tested in firm and foam surfaces and recorded
Individual effects of product quality signals in the presence versus absence of other signals: differential effects across brick‐and‐mortar and online settings

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to study the effectiveness of multiple signals. Specifically, the paper investigates how the individual strength of a marketplace signal varies as a function of whether consumers are exposed to that signal alone or in combination with another signal.Design/methodology/approach – The research uses experimental designs to empirically address the research questions. Hypotheses are formulated primarily based on signaling theory and these hypotheses are tested with laboratory experiments using real consumers.Findings – The key finding is that a signal's stand‐alone credibility largely determines whether its individual strength would be diluted or augmented by the coexistence of another signal. Further, when signals with different stand‐alone strengths coexist, the individual strength of the weaker signal is higher than when that signal is present alone. These effects are observed in brick‐and‐mortar and online shopping media.Originality/value – Past research reports mixed.
A New Clustering Protocol for Wireless Sensor Networks Using Genetic Algorithm Approach

This paper examines the optimization of the lifetime and energy consumption of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). These two competing objectives have a deep influence over the service qualification of networks and according to recent studies, cluster formation is an appropriate solution for their achievement. To transmit aggregated data to the Base Station (BS), logical nodes called Cluster Heads (CHs) are required to relay data from the fixed-range sensing nodes located in the ground to high altitude aircraft. This study investigates the Genetic Algorithm (GA) as a dynamic technique to find optimum states. It is a simple framework that includes a proposed mathematical formula, which increasing in coverage is benchmarked against lifetime. Finally, the implementation of the proposed algorithm indicates a better efficiency compared to other simulated works.
REDUCING SPASTICITY TO CONTROL MUSCLE CONTRACTURE OF CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY

A biofeedback training technique to control spasticity, previously successful with adults with cerebral palsy, was adapted for three children with spastic diplegia at risk for contractures. Visual feedback of muscle stretch reflex sensitivity is provided by video games, which are played by reducing reflex sensitivity. After a 10‐week training period two of the three children had significantly reduced spasticity in the gastrocnemius muscle. The technique can be used with children as young as four years, is inexpensive, and can be carried out by parents with supervision by a physiotherapist.
Gender and Banking with the Small Business Client

Do Canadian financial institutions discriminate between female and male small business clients? This question is fraught with emotional overtones and findings that, to date, are inconclusive. It is a question that has received considerable attention in the media as well as in academic research. This paper reports findings that seek to shed further light on this issue. If differences in access to, and terms of, credit do exist by gender it remains to determine the extent to which structural differences in borrowers' eligibility are accountable. Conversely, the role (if any) of systematic gender discrimination needs to be separated from systemic structural differences. To this end, this study has three objectives. The first is to identify factors that are most closely associated with credit terms. Potential risk measures indude the form, size, industry, and track record of an enterprise. The second objective is to determine if factors such as these risk measures are also correlated with gender of the owner. Gender-related disparities in business attributes, quite independently of systematic gender discrimination, may lead to discrepancies in credit terms, discrepancies that may appear as ifgender-related. The third objective is to investigate whether or not credit terms differ between female-owned and male-owned enterprises a@ accounting for structural differences in business attributes. This study investigates five credit terms: rates of loan turndowns, rates or requests for spousal cosignature, ratios of collateral to line of credit, ratios of amount received to amount applied for, and interest rates. Literature review
Optimal design method of target price contract

Based on the principle of profit maximization,this paper proposes the optimal design method of optimizing the three parameters for the target price contract which agents are willing to accept and also willing to bid their expected actual cost for,and meanwhile offers the conditions which the optimal parameters should meet theoretically.The concrete design process includes changing the traditional practice of an agent presenting the target cost for the target price contact,instead depending on the agent to propose it based on his more information and cost estimation,then applying the proposed design method to a series of combination of target cost,target profit and cost incentive coefficient according to the scope of the project cost and finally letting the agent make an appropriate choice from the multiple combination according to its actual cost to sign the target price contract.A practical example is used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.The result show that the agent can gain the maximum profit only when he proposes the target cost which can reflect the actual cost as expected.Thus,the optimized target price contract can reduce the asymmetry in information and clarify the agent′s actual cost of implementing the project.
Indo-US FTA - Prospects for the Telecommunication Sector

Since telecommunication is one of the main drivers of economic growth and globalization, WTO (World Trade Organization) negotiations and New Age FTAs (Free Trade Agreements) have focused on liberalizing trade in this sector. The present paper analyses the possibilities of liberalizing trade in telecommunication services if India and its largest trading partnerthe USenter into a bilateral agreement. The study found that India and the US have trade complementarities in telecommunication services and that it should be a priority sector in the FTA negotiations. The study identified certain areas such as R&D related to telecommunication and broadband infrastructure where collaboration between companies of both countries would be mutually beneficial. The study found that telecommunication services have been significantly liberalized in the US FTAsmuch beyond the scope of the GATS and the Reference Paper on Basic Telecommunications. While the current policy regime in India is consistent with some of the requests made by the US in its bilateral negotiations, for meeting others, the policy regime needs to be examined and, if required, reformed. The present paper suggests certain reforms which would enhance the productivity, efficiency and global competitiveness of the sector and enable the country to benefit from the bilateral liberalization.
Gerenciamento de riscos em projetos nas organizações no Brasil

Este estudo se propoe a realizar uma analise historica da disciplina “gerenciamento de riscos” com base nos oito resultados dos benchmarkings (2003 a 2010) em Gerenciamento de Projetos no Brasil, realizado anualmente pelos chapters do PMI. Sessenta organizacoes participaram em 2003 e 460 em 2010. Os procedimentos metodologicos para elaboracao desse artigo contemplaram a realizacao de revisao bibliografica dos estudos de benchmarkings em gerenciamento de projetos realizados no Pais, incluindo a avaliacao de conteudo de todas as perguntas formuladas as organizacoes respondentes, possibilitando a elaboracao de uma matriz de trabalho para garantir uma efetiva analise historica e evolutiva dos resultados de cada item pesquisado. Os resultados mostram que de forma estavel no periodo analisado, cerca de dois tercos das organizacoes consideram o item “risco” em suas metodologias de Gerenciamento de Projetos, entretanto, apenas um terco tem uma metodologia formal. As proximas edicoes poderiam contemplar investigacoes bre metodologias e softwares em uso, percentual de tempo despendido nos processos de gerenciamento de riscos, tecnicas e ferramentas utilizadas, e tambem, a influencia dos riscos no calculo da reserva financeira do projeto. Palavras-chave: Gerenciamento de Riscos; Riscos; Benchmarking Gerenciamento de Projetos; Benchmarking Gerenciamento de Riscos. Abstract This study aims to perform a historical analysis of the discipline “risk management” based on the eight benchmarks results (2003 to 2010) Project Management in Brazil, conducted annually by the PMI chapters in Brazil. Sixty organizations participated in 2003 and 460 in 2010. The methodological procedures to develop this article include the literature review of benchmarking studies in project management conducted in the country, approaching the content evaluation of all questions done to the researched organizations, enabling the development of work matrix to ensure an effective historical and evolutionary results analysis of each item addressed. Steadily over this period, about two-thirds of organizations consider the item “risk” in their Project Management methodologies, however, only a third have a formal methodology. Future editions could include research on methodologies and software in use, percentage of time spent on risk management processes, techniques and tools used, and also the influence of risk in he calculation of the project’s financial reserves. Keywords: Risk Management; Risks; Benchmarking Project Management; Benchmarking Risk Management.
The Financial Performance of SRI Funds Between 2002 and 2009

Is there a difference in the financial returns between a portfolio of funds based on the concept of Socially Responsible Investment (SRI) and a conventional index between 2002 and 2009 and is there a relation between financial and sustainability ratings based on the past performance of funds and the return of SRI funds? In this paper an analysis of the monthly returns between December 2001 and June 2009 of 151 SRI funds is presented. We analyzed differences and similarities between SRI funds and the MSCI World Index using statistical tests and constructed a regression model explaining the relation between the financial and sustainability rating of SRI funds and their financial performance. We found that the SRI fund portfolio reached a significantly higher return than MSCI World Index. Furthermore with respect to the financial performance of SRI funds, the weight of the financial rating of the funds was positive while the weight of the sustainability rating was negative. Thus an in-depth financial analysis of SRI funds helps to identify those funds performing financially well.
Psychosocial factors associated with mouth and throat cancer examinations in rural Florida.

OBJECTIVES We examined the knowledge and prevalence of mouth and throat cancer examinations in a sample drawn from rural populations in north Florida. METHODS Telephone interviews were conducted across rural census tracts throughout north Florida in 2009 and 2010, in a survey that had been adapted for cultural appropriateness using cognitive interviews. The sample consisted of 2526 respondents (1132 men and 1394 women; 1797 Whites and 729 African Americans). RESULTS Awareness of mouth and throat cancer examination (46%) and lifetime receipt (46%) were higher than reported in statewide studies performed over the past 15 years. Only 19% of the respondents were aware of their examination, whereas an additional 27% reported having the examination when a description was provided, suggesting a lack of communication between many caregivers and rural patients. Surprisingly, anticipated racial/ethnic differences were diminished when adjustments were made for health literacy and several measures of socioeconomic status. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the notion that health disparities are multifactorial and include characteristics such as low health literacy, lack of access to care, and poor communication between patient and provider.
INDIVIDUAL ANTIGEN-SPECIFIC T LYMPHOCYTES methodology of the B-cell splenic focus analysis developed to s tudy ind iv idua l B-cell an t i body responses in vitro

Since the demonstration that antigen-specific T lymphocytes play a role in the promotion of antibody responses of B lymphocytes (1, 2), much effort has been directed towards precisely defining the specificity and functional capabilities of"helper" T cells in T-dependent antibody responses. The collaborative function of T cells appears to be dependent upon the recognition of antigen, a process which under certain circumstances may be highly specific (3, 4), as well as upon the recognition of the cell surface products of the major histocompatibility complex on syngeneic B cells or macrophages (5-7). However, the exact mechanism of T-cell-B-cell collaboration and the specific nature of the T cells involved are still poorly understood. This is due in part to the fact that T-cell populations are generally complex mixtures of cells which differ not only in antigen specificity but also in the functions which they exhibit after appropriate contact with antigen. T cells have been shown to be capable of mediating a number of diverse functions which serve to both enhance and suppress antibody responses (1, 2, 8). Since little is known about the stimulatory conditions which induce these diverse T-cell functions, any observed immune phenomenon may reflect the composite activity of several T cells (both helper and suppressor), rather than the function or capability of an individual T cell. Among the most provocative roles attributed to helper T-cell collaboration in humoral responses is the promotion of the synthesis of multiple Ig isotypes by B cells (9, 10). It has been demonstrated previously in this laboratory that individual hapten-specific primary B cells yield clones which produce multiple Ig isotypes when stimulated in the presence of excess syngeneic, carrier-specific T cells (6, 11, 12). The experimental evidence available at this time cannot delineate whether or not more than a single T cell is required for the expression of multiple Ig isotypes (13, 14). Several studies, however, have implied that individual T cells (13) or selected T-cell subpopulations (15, 16) may be restricted to enabling B-cell antibody responses of only a single Ig isotype or aliotype. An unambiguous evaluation of the potential of individual T cells to enable multiple isotype expression by one or several B lymphocytes requires an analysis of individual T cells in the presence of excess antigen-specific primary B cells. Other investigators have used limiting numbers of T cells to estimate the frequency of alloreactive T cells (17, 18), and to analyze various aspects of helper T-cell function, such as allogeneic collaboration (19) or multiple B-cell stimulation (13).
Corporate governance and stock returns: evidence from Greece

Abstract This paper examines the relationship between the quality of corporate governance and the stock performance of companies listed in the Athens Stock Exchange (ASE). The results indicate that companies with superior corporate governance function exhibit a higher stock return. However the relationship seems to weaken when adjusting for differences in market risk (beta) and book value to market value ratios.