gebhart/patrepeval huggingface dataset:
Electrical Nerve Stimulation Enhances Perilesional Branching after Nerve Grafting but Fails to Increase Regeneration Speed in a Murine Model (2016)

Background Electrical stimulation immediately following nerve lesion helps regenerating axons cross the subsequently grafted nerve repair site. However, the results and the mechanisms remain open to debate. Some findings show that stimulation after crush injury increases axonal crossing of the repair site without affecting regeneration speed. Others show that stimulation after transection and fibrin glue repair doubles regeneration distance. Methods Using a sciatic-nerve-transection-graft in vivo model, we investigated the morphological behavior of regenerating axons around the repair site after unilateral nerve stimulation (20 Hz, 1 hour). With mice expressing axonal fluorescent proteins (thy1-YFP), we were able to calculate the following at 5 and 7 days: percentage of regenerating axons and arborizing axons, branches per axon, and regeneration distance and speed. Results Brief stimulation significantly increases the percentage of regenerating axons (5 days: 35.5 vs. 27.3% nonstimulated, p < 0.05; 7 days: 43.3 vs. 33.9% nonstimulated, p < 0.05), mainly by increasing arborizing axons (5 days: 49.3 [4.4] vs. 33.9 [4.1]% [p < 0.001]; 7 days: 42.2 [5.6] vs. 33.2 [3.1]% [p < 0.001]). Neither branches per arborizing axon nor regeneration speed were affected. Conclusion Our morphological data analysis revealed that electrical stimulation in this model increases axonal crossing of the repair site and promotes homogeneous perilesional branching, but does not affect regeneration speed.
Skin Ceramide Profile in Children With Atopic Dermatitis (2018)

Skin CER abundances are changed in children with AD compared with control subjects.
The rational design of a synthetic polymer nanoparticle that neutralizes a toxic peptide in vivo (2011)

Synthetic polymer nanoparticles (NPs) that bind venomous molecules and neutralize their function in vivo are of significant interest as "plastic antidotes." Recently, procedures to synthesize polymer NPs with affinity for target peptides have been reported. However, the performance of synthetic materials in vivo is a far greater challenge. Particle size, surface charge, and hydrophobicity affect not only the binding affinity and capacity to the target toxin but also the toxicity of NPs and the creation of a "corona" of proteins around NPs that can alter and or suppress the intended performance. Here, we report the design rationale of a plastic antidote for in vivo applications. Optimizing the choice and ratio of functional monomers incorporated in the NP maximized the binding affinity and capacity toward a target peptide. Biocompatibility tests of the NPs in vitro and in vivo revealed the importance of tuning surface charge and hydrophobicity to minimize NP toxicity and prevent aggregation induced by nonspecific interactions with plasma proteins. The toxin neutralization capacity of NPs in vivo showed a strong correlation with binding affinity and capacity in vitro. Furthermore, in vivo imaging experiments established the NPs accelerate clearance of the toxic peptide and eventually accumulate in macrophages in the liver. These results provide a platform to design plastic antidotes and reveal the potential and possible limitations of using synthetic polymer nanoparticles as plastic antidotes.
Localization of growth factors in the reconstructed anterior cruciate ligament: immunohistological study in dogs (2000)

This study was designed to examine localization of the growth factors in the autogenous patellar tendon graft used to reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the canine model. Among the various growth factors, basic fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor-beta1, and platelet-derived growth factor were selected for analysis as potential factors that regulate graft remodeling processes. In the control patellar tendon and the ACL only basic fibroblast growth factor was positively stained. In the reconstructed graft increased levels of staining for all the three factors were observed in the early postoperative period, reaching the greatest expression 3 weeks after implantation. Thereafter immunoreactivity of these growth factors decreased and returned to the preoperative levels, which were similar to that of the control ACL 12 weeks postoperatively. This rapid reduction in the level of their localization indicates that once the extrinsic cells are infiltrated to the graft and revascularization completed, these growth factors may have less significance for subsequent remodeling.
Insights into Effective RNAi Gained from Large-Scale siRNA Validation Screening (2007)

Transfection of chemically synthesized short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) enables a high level of sequence-specific gene silencing. Although siRNA design algorithms have been improved in recent years, it is still necessary to prove the functionality of a given siRNA experimentally. We have functionally tested several thousand siRNAs for target genes from various gene families including kinases, phosphatases, and cancer-related genes (e.g., genes involved in apoptosis and the cell cycle). Some targets were difficult to silence above a threshold of 70% knockdown. By working with one design algorithm and a standardized validation procedure, we discovered that the level of silencing achieved was not exclusively dependent on the siRNA sequences. Here we present data showing that neither the gene expression level nor the cellular environment has a direct impact on the knockdown which can be achieved for a given target. Modifications of the experimental setting have been investigated with the aim of improving knockdown efficiencies for siRNA-target combinations that show only moderate knockdown. Use of higher siRNA concentrations did not change the overall performance of the siRNA-target combinations analyzed. Optimal knockdown at the mRNA level was usually reached 48-72 hours after transfection. Target gene-specific characteristics such as the accessibility of the corresponding target sequences to the RNAi machinery appear to have a significant influence on the knockdown observed, making certain targets easy or difficult to knock down using siRNA.
Use of two predictive algorithms of the world wide web for the identification of tumor-reactive T-cell epitopes. (2000)

Tumor cells can be effectively recognized and eliminated by CTLs. One approach for the development of CTL-based cancer immunotherapy for solid tumors requires the use of the appropriate immunogenic peptide epitopes that are derived from defined tumor-associated antigens. Because CTL peptide epitopes are restricted to specific MHC alleles, to design immune therapies for the general population it is necessary to identify epitopes for the most commonly found human MHC alleles. The identification of such epitopes has been based on MHC-peptide-binding assays that are costly and labor-intensive. We report here the use of two computer-based prediction algorithms, which are readily available in the public domain (Internet), to identify HL4-B7-restricted CTL epitopes for carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). These algorithms identified three candidate peptides that we studied for their capacity to induce CTL responses in vitro using lymphocytes from HLA-B7+ normal blood donors. The results show that one of these peptides, CEA9(632) (IPQQHTQVL) was efficient in the induction of primary CTL responses when dendritic cells were used as antigen-presenting cells. These CTLs were efficient in killing tumor cells that express HLA-B7 and produce CEA. The identification of this HLA-B7-restricted CTL epitope will be useful for the design of ethnically unbiased, widely applicable immunotherapies for common solid epithelial tumors expressing CEA. Moreover, our strategy of identifying MHC class I-restricted CTL epitopes without the need of peptide/HLA-binding assays provides a convenient and cost-saving alternative approach to previous methods.
Development of an Elastically Deployable Boom for Tensioned Planar Structures (2007)

This paper reports on the design, analysis and testing of a new elastically deployable boom. The boom is designed such that it flattens and elastically stows around a circular hub. Using finite element analyses, a design trade was performed to determine the boom geometry that maximizes bending stiffness. Predictions of the boom’s bending and torsional stiffness and strength were also made using the finite element model. Mechanical tests of a 0.610 m boom segment were conducted to measure these properties as well. The bending stiffness test results were consistent with the finite element analysis, showing a 3.8% and 6.5% difference in stiffness about the soft axis and stiff axis, respectively. The bending buckling loads and modes shapes corresponded to those predicted by the nonlinear finite element analysis.
Recent developments with oxazolidinone antibiotics (1999)

The emerging problems with multiple antibiotic-resistant Gram-positive cocci led to the re-evaluation of an antibacterial class of compounds, the oxazolidinones. During the 1990s, many companies such as Upjohn, Bayer, Zeneca, Roussel Uclaf, Marion Merrell Dow and Glaxo published their work on antibacterial active oxazolidinones. The primary work in this area started in the 1980s at DuPont. The efforts of these scientists led to N-phenyl and N-heteroaryl oxazolidinones with strong antibacterial activity in vitro and in vivo. The most advanced oxazolidinone, linezolid, discovered by scientists at Upjohn, is currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials.
Layered shape synthesis (2009)

Many inhomogeneous real-world textures are non-stationary and exhibit various large scale patterns that are easily perceived by a human observer. Such textures violate the assumptions underlying most state-of-the-art example-based synthesis methods. Consequently, they cannot be properly reproduced by these methods, unless a suitable control map is provided to guide the synthesis process. Such control maps are typically either user specified or generated by a simulation. In this paper, we present an alternative: a method for automatic example-based generation of control maps, geared at synthesis of natural, highly inhomogeneous textures, such as those resulting from natural aging or weathering processes. Our method is based on the observation that an appropriate control map for many of these textures may be modeled as a superposition of several layers, where the visible parts of each layer are occupied by a more homogeneous texture. Thus, given a decomposition of a texture exemplar into a small number of such layers, we employ a novel example-based shape synthesis algorithm to automatically generate a new set of layers. Our shape synthesis algorithm is designed to preserve both local and global characteristics of the exemplar's layer map. This process results in a new control map, which then may be used to guide the subsequent texture synthesis process.
Moist Wound Healing with Occlusive Dressings (1995)

Occlusive dressings simplify wound care and are an excellent choice in the management of most acute and chronic wounds. This review should enable the clinician to choose the best dressing to meet the individual wound of the patient.
A Study of Reaction Mechanisms by DSC and TG (1972)

DSC is used to determine the temperatures at which cellulose undergoes decomposition reactions. TG is then used to determine the activation energies of these reactions, and the effect of potassium chloride upon these activation energies. Extending the theories of the Brönsted salt effect beyond dilute liquid solutions to KC1 dispersed in cellulose, it is shown that activation energies are a function of the square root of the ionic strength, and that the KC1 exerts a positive salt effect. These findings support a proposed mechanism that one route for the thermal decomposition of cellulose is its dehydration through a carbonium ion intermediate to products.
The neurobiological basis of binge-eating disorder (2016)

Relatively little is known about the neuropathophysiology of binge-eating disorder (BED). Here, the evidence from neuroimaging, neurocognitive, genetics, and animal studies are reviewed to synthesize our current understanding of the pathophysiology of BED. Binge-eating disorder may be conceptualized as an impulsive/compulsive disorder, with altered reward sensitivity and food-related attentional biases. Neuroimaging studies suggest there are corticostriatal circuitry alterations in BED similar to those observed in substance abuse, including altered function of prefrontal, insular, and orbitofrontal cortices and the striatum. Human genetics and animal studies suggest that there are changes in neurotransmitter networks, including dopaminergic and opioidergic systems, associated with binge-eating behaviors. Overall, the current evidence suggests that BED may be related to maladaptation of the corticostriatal circuitry regulating motivation and impulse control similar to that found in other impulsive/compulsive disorders. Further studies are needed to understand the genetics of BED and how neurotransmitter activity and neurocircuitry function are altered in BED and how pharmacotherapies may influence these systems to reduce BED symptoms.
Oral Solid Self-Emulsifying Formulations: A Patent Review (2014)

Self-emulsifying compositions are lipidic drug delivery systems that provide a number of delivery advantages. A variety of excipients are available for designing of these drug delivery systems. These systems can be classified as Type I, II, III, and IV, and alternatively as solid, semi-solid, and liquid. Till date many patents have been published on self-emulsifying compositions, and a few commercial products have also been launched. The purpose of this review is to have insights into the patent literature capturing the developments in the area of oral solid self-emulsifying formulations. Though the main emphasis is on developments in solid self-emulsifying formulations, an overview of different manufacturing techniques has also been provided. These formulations can be grouped as conventional, granules, pellets, tablets, supersaturable, controlled release, eutectic-based, and positively charged. The components of self-emulsifying formulations described in this review are not limited only to oils, surfactants, and cosurfactants but also include binders, polymers, diluents, alkalinizing agents, stabilizing agents, preservatives, and viscosity adjusting agents. The inventions highlighted in this article provide useful guidelines for enhancement of oral bioavailability of drugs through this drug delivery platform.
Shaking the Foundation: Women of Color in Sport (2001)

Feminist sport psychologists agree that the playing field is not level regarding gender issues in and out of sport and that sexism is alive and well. Ironically, the myth persists that race and racism are not prevalent in sport. Like any aspect of culture, sport is influenced by societal norms. Thus, for women of color, race and gender are accompanied by racism and sexism within and outside of athletics. The purpose of this paper is to briefly examine the experiences of women of color within sport and the feminist sport psychology community in particular. The feminist preoccupation with gender frequently ignores or minimizes race and cultural differences between women and the racism that can emerge in cross-racial interactions. The result is the marginalization of women of color.
Purification and properties of NADP+-dependent glycerol dehydrogenases from Aspergillus nidulans and A. niger (1990)

Glycerol dehydrogenase, NADP(+)-specific (EC 1.1.1.72), was purified from mycelium of Aspergillus nidulans and Aspergillus niger using different purification procedures. Both enzymes had an Mr of approximately 38,000 and were immunologically cross-reactive, but had different amino acid compositions and isoelectric points. For both enzymes, the substrate specificity was limited to glycerol and erythritol for the oxidative reaction and to dihydroxyacetone (DHA), diacetyl, methylglyoxal, erythrose and D-glyceraldehyde for the reductive reaction. The A. nidulans enzyme had a turnover number twice that of the A. niger enzyme at pH 6.0, whereas inhibition by NADP+ was less (Ki = 45 microM vs 13 microM). It is proposed that both enzymes catalyse in vivo the reduction of DHA to glycerol and that they are regulated by the anabolic reduction charge.
Enantiomerically pure bicyclo[3.3.1]nona-2,6-diene as the sole source of enantioselectivity in BIPHEP-Rh asymmetric hydrogenation (2008)

In situ resolution of the rapidly racemising diphosphine BIPHEP and its relatives with the cationic Rh complex of (S,S)-bicyclonona-2,6-diene permits the asymmetric hydrogenation of dehydroamino esters.
The lung as a metabolic factory for gene therapy (2002)

recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV); erythropoietin (Epo); alpha-1-antitrypsin (AAT)
Phase III Multicenter Randomized Trial of Oxaliplatin Added to Chronomodulated Fluorouracil–Leucovorin as First-Line Treatment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (2000)

By chronomodulating 5-FU-LV, we were able to add l-OHP without compromising dose-intensities. l-OHP significantly improved the antitumor efficacy of this regimen.
Synthetic model proteins: contribution of hydrophobic residues and disulfide bonds to protein stability. (1992)

The objective of this study was to evaluate quantitatively the contribution that hydrophobic residues and disulfide bonds make to protein stability using a model protein with well-defined secondary, tertiary and quaternary structure. This de novo-designed protein consists of two identical 35-residue alpha-helical polypeptide chains arranged in a coiled-coil structure, which are stabilized by nine pairs of interchain hydrophobic interactions from leucine residues and an interchain disulfide bond. The mutant proteins differ from the Leu-protein only at positions 16 and 19 of each chain which contain either Ile, Val, Ala, Phe or Tyr instead of Leu residues. The stability of each protein was determined in its reduced and oxidized form from guanidine hydrochloride denaturation experiments using circular dichroism measurements. The Leu-, Ile-, Val- and Phe-proteins containing the disulfide bond were essentially 100% alpha-helical in benign medium (0.05 M phosphate buffer, pH 7, containing 0.1 M KCl) with transition midpoints of 5.3, 4.1, 2.9 and 2.4 M denaturant, respectively. Reduction of the disulfide bond had little effect on the Leu-protein but resulted in significant decreases in helicity of the other mutants. The order of protein stability of these analogs remains the same in the absence or presence of the disulfide bond (Leu- greater than Ile- greater than Val- greater than Phe- greater than Tyr- greater than Ala-protein). Interestingly, the more stable the protein was in the absence of the disulfide bond, the larger the contribution the disulfide bond made to protein stability. The identical mutation in the disulfide bridge protein had a much greater effect on protein stability than in the reduced protein. This suggests that the disulfide bond controls the conformation of the coiled-coil some 14-17 residues further along the polypeptide chain (the disulfide bond is between positions 2 and 2' and the closest mutation site in the coiled-coil is at position 16 and 16'). In contrast, in the absence of the disulfide bond, the coiled-coil is more flexible and can accommodate the mutations more easily by adjusting the interchain packing around the mutation sites. The helix-forming tendency of nonpolar residues was deduced in this study by comparing the alpha-helicity of the mutant polypeptides in aqueous buffer containing 50% trifluoroethanol where they exist as single-stranded helices. Hydrophobicity is an important factor in determining the alpha-helix forming tendency of aliphatic nonpolar residues in amphipathic alpha-helices.
Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (Gorlin syndrome) (2008)

Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS), also known as Gorlin syndrome, is a hereditary condition characterized by a wide range of developmental abnormalities and a predisposition to neoplasms. The estimated prevalence varies from 1/57,000 to 1/256,000, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1. Main clinical manifestations include multiple basal cell carcinomas (BCCs), odontogenic keratocysts of the jaws, hyperkeratosis of palms and soles, skeletal abnormalities, intracranial ectopic calcifications, and facial dysmorphism (macrocephaly, cleft lip/palate and severe eye anomalies). Intellectual deficit is present in up to 5% of cases. BCCs (varying clinically from flesh-colored papules to ulcerating plaques and in diameter from 1 to 10 mm) are most commonly located on the face, back and chest. The number of BBCs varies from a few to several thousand. Recurrent jaw cysts occur in 90% of patients. Skeletal abnormalities (affecting the shape of the ribs, vertebral column bones, and the skull) are frequent. Ocular, genitourinary and cardiovascular disorders may occur. About 5-10% of NBCCS patients develop the brain malignancy medulloblastoma, which may be a potential cause of early death. NBCCS is caused by mutations in the PTCH1 gene and is transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait with complete penetrance and variable expressivity. Clinical diagnosis relies on specific criteria. Gene mutation analysis confirms the diagnosis. Genetic counseling is mandatory. Antenatal diagnosis is feasible by means of ultrasound scans and analysis of DNA extracted from fetal cells (obtained by amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling). Main differential diagnoses include Bazex syndrome, trichoepithelioma papulosum multiplex and Torre's syndrome (Muir-Torre's syndrome). Management requires a multidisciplinary approach. Keratocysts are treated by surgical removal. Surgery for BBCs is indicated when the number of lesions is limited; other treatments include laser ablation, photodynamic therapy and topical chemotherapy. Radiotherapy should be avoided. Vitamin A analogs may play a preventive role against development of new BCCs. Life expectancy in NBCCS is not significantly altered but morbidity from complications can be substantial. Regular follow-up by a multi-specialist team (dermatologist, neurologist and odontologist) should be offered. Patients with NBCCS should strictly avoid an excessive sun exposure.
Nitric oxide-releasing S-nitrosated derivatives of chitin and chitosan for biomedical applications (2014)

Nitric oxide (NO)-releasing derivatives of chitin and chitosan were prepared through incorporation of the symmetrical dithiols 1,2-ethanedithiol, 1,3-propanedithiol, and 1,6-hexanedithiol, followed by S-nitrosation with tert-butyl nitrite. The NO loading of the materials and their real-time NO release profiles under physiological conditions (pH 7.4 phosphate buffered saline, 37 °C) were recorded over 24 hours, and in vitro cytotoxicity studies were performed using human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) to assess the suitability of the materials for biomedical applications. Of the six thiolated parent materials, five exhibited cell viability higher than 70% (MTS assay), an outcome that was corroborated by LIVE/DEAD assay. In all cases, HDF morphology was unaffected by the presence of extracts obtained from the thiolated materials.