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Information retrieval is becoming increasingly concerned with resource selection and data fusion for distributed archives. In distributed information retrieval, a user submits a query to a broker, which determines a solution for how to yield a given number of documents from all available resources. In this paper, we present a multi-objective model for resource selection, in which four aspects: a document's relevance to the given query, time, monetary cost, and the chance of getting document duplicates from resources, are considered simultaneously. Some variants of this multi-objective model, aimed at achieving better implementation efficiency, are also proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Often users of information retrieval systems and document authors use different terms to refer to the same concept. For this simple reason, information retrieval is affected by the 'term mismatch' problem. The term mismatch problem does not only have the effect of hindering the retrieval of relevant documents, it also produces bad rankings of relevant documents. A similar problem can be found in spoken document retrieval, where terms misrecognized by the speech recognition process can hinder the retrieval of potentially relevant spoken documents. We will call this problem 'term misrecognition', by analogy to the term mismatch problem. This paper presents two classes of retrieval models that attempt to tackle both the term mismatch and the term misrecognition problems at retrieval time using term similarity information. The models use either complete or partial knowledge of semantic and phonetic term similarity, evaluated using statistical methods from the corpus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on the use of mathematical, logical, and forreal methods, has been central to Information Retrieval research for a long time. Research in this area is important not only because it helps enhancing retrieval effectiveness, but also because it helps clarifying the underlying concepts of Information Retrieval. in this article we outline some of the major aspects of the subject, and summarize the papers of this special issue with respect to how they relate to these aspects. We conclude by highlighting some directions of future research, which are needed to better understand the formal characteristics of Information Retrieval. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No abstract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A histidine-to-arginine point-mutation at position 101 in the α1-subunit of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptors has been shown to switch the in vitro efficacy of Ro 15-4513 from inverse agonism to agonism. In order to assess the consequences of this pharmacological switch in vivo, the motor and proconvulsant effects of Ro 15-4513 were analyzed in knock-in mice containing point-mutated α1(H101R)-GABAA receptors. Furthermore the influence of the α1(H101R) substitution on the efficacy of the β-carboline inverse agonist DMCM was examined both in vitro and in vivo. Ro 15-4513 (10 mg/kg) increased baseline locomotion and potentiated the convulsant effect of pentylenetetrazole in wild type mice. In α1(H101R) mice, Ro 15-4513 decreased locomotion and, at a higher dose (30 mg/kg) it displayed an anticonvulsant action. In vitro, DMCM acted as an inverse agonist at recombinant α1β2γ2 receptors whereas it potentiated GABA-evoked chloride currents at α1(H101R)β2γ2 receptors. DMCM was inactive as a convulsant in α1(H101R) mice. In keeping with the major contribution of these receptors to the sedative and anticonvulsant properties of benzodiazepine site agonists, the present findings identify the α1-GABAA receptors as the molecular targets for the allosteric modulation by benzodiazepine site ligands in either direction with regard to the behavioral outputs, sedation/motor stimulation and anticonvulsion/proconvulsion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Investigates the role of hippocampal &alpha[sub 5] γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptors on trace fear conditioning behavior in mice. Diversity of neuronal inhibition in the regulation of information processing; Comparison between trace fear conditioning and delay conditioning; List of behavioral responses to diazepam.

It has long been recognized that interactivity improves the effectiveness of Information Retrieval systems. Speech is the most natural and interactive medium of communication and recent progress in speech recognition is making it possible to build systems that interact with the user via speech. However, given the typical length of queries submitted to Information Retrieval systems, it is easy to imagine that the effects of word recognition errors in spoken queries must be severely destructive on the system''s effectiveness. The experimental work reported in this paper shows that the use of classical Information Retrieval techniques for spoken query processing is robust to considerably high levels of word recognition errors, in particular for long queries. Moreover, in the case of short queries, both standard relevance feedback and pseudo relevance feedback can be effectively employed to improve the effectiveness of spoken query processing. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Presents a study which examined the pharmacological functions of GABA[sub A] receptors. Analysis of GABA[sub A] receptors in gene-knockout strategies; Distinction of receptor subtypes by knock-in point mutations; Subtype selective ligands of the benzodiazepine site.

Focuses on a study which identified molecular and neuronal target mediating the anxiolytic action of benzodiazepines. Pharmacological importance of mutated receptors; Investigation of the anxiolytic-like action of diazepam; Effect of the absence of an anxiolytic-like effect of diazepam.

Focuses on a study of a user's perception of the relevance of documents. How users' perception varies depending on the form that retrieved documents are presented; Effectiveness of advanced multimedia information retrieval applications; Low levels of users' perception of relevance of retrieved documents; Prevalent interest in ubiquitous computing.

Nitrogen fertilization enhances the tillering capacity of white oats and a greater number of fertile tillers is directly related to the increase in grains per area, which is related to grain yield. The objectives of this work were to evaluate the tillering capacity and the linear relationships between characters of white oat cultivars, associated with the use of nitrogen fertilization. The experiment was carried out in Santa Maria - RS, in a randomized block design, with the main plot comprising five white oat cultivars and the subplot comprising four doses of nitrogen applied as a top dressing when the crop had 3 developed leaves (0 kg ha-1, 50 kg ha-1, 100 kg ha-1, and 150 kg ha-1). Six hundred plants were sampled when the crop was at the full tillering stage and the characters were assessed: plant height (cm), height of first leaf insertion (cm), number of fully expanded leaves, number of tillers, stem diameter (cm), and dry matter phytomass (g). Nitrogen had a positive effect on the number of tillers, with the most effective doses being between 101.67 and 122.14 kg ha-1. The 122.14 kg ha-1 dose is recommended in order to achieve maximum technical efficiency for the production of tillers in the white oat crop, with emphasis on the URS Altiva cultivar, which had the highest number of tillers. The number of tillers and plant height have a positive linear relationship with dry matter phytomass and can be used for indirect selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Genetic analysis is emerging for interstitial lung diseases (ILDs); however, ILD practices are not yet standardized. We surveyed patients', relatives' and pulmonologists' experiences and needs on genetic testing in ILD to evaluate the current situation and identify future needs. Methods: A clinical epidemiologist (MT) together with members of the ERS taskforce and representatives of the European Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and related disorders Federation (EU‐IPFF) patient organisation developed a survey for patients, relatives and pulmonologists. Online surveys consisted of questions on five main topics: awareness of hereditary ILD, the provision of information, genetic testing, screening of asymptomatic relatives and clinical impact of genetic analysis in ILD. Results: Survey respondents consisted of 458 patients with ILD, 181 patients' relatives and 352 pulmonologists. Most respondents think genetic testing can be useful, particularly for explaining the cause of disease, predicting its course, determining risk for developing disease and the need to test relatives. Informing patients and relatives on genetic analysis is primarily performed by the pulmonologist, but 88% (218) of pulmonologists identify a need for more information and 96% (240) ask for guidelines on genetic testing in ILD. A third of the pulmonologists who would offer genetic testing currently do not offer a genetic test, primarily because they have limited access to genetic tests. Following genetic testing, 72% (171) of pulmonologists may change the diagnostic work‐up and 57% (137) may change the therapeutic approach. Conclusion: This survey shows that there is wide support for implementation of genetic testing in ILD and a high need for information, guidelines and access to testing among patients, their relatives and pulmonologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare degenerative neurological disorder in adults. It induces parkinsonian and/or cerebellar syndrome associated with dysautonomia. Pharyngolaryngeal symptoms are common. Our aim is to describe the Pharyngolaryngeal semiology on one hand, and to ascertain whether the presence of these symptoms represents a prognostic factor for MSA on the other. Methods: Thus, we carried out a retrospective, single-centre study, on a cohort receiving care at the centre of reference for MSA. The patients were referred for otorhinolaryngology assessment. The data was collected over the year 2020 with the help of computer software from the university hospital centre (UHC). Firstly, we described the Pharyngolaryngeal semiology specific to MSA by questioning patients, and by the results of nasofibroscopic examinations and swallowing tests. We then used multivariate analysis of variance to describe the prognostic factors of MSA progression (in UMSARS I and II points per month of progression) and survival (number of years between the first symptoms and death). Results: This study included a hundred and one patients and made it possible to define a Pharyngolaryngeal semiology profile of MSA, which is: a reduction in laryngeal mobility (primarily vocal cord abduction defects), abnormal movements (particularly at rest or when initiating a movement) and a defect in the protection mechanisms of the upper airways. The swallowing difficulties are moderate and the main mechanisms are delayed pharyngeal swallow and/or an oro-pharyngeal transport defect. In the multivariate analyses, the contributing factors are laryngeal anomalies, modification of solid food to fluid food and nutritional complication. Conclusion: ENT specialists should pay close attention to problems in the Pharyngolaryngeal dynamic and then consider a neurological cause. They can also itemize the clinical factors that could have a negative effect on the prognosis of the patient with MSA. Indeed, early detection makes it possible to provide care for respiratory and nutritional complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Data regarding interstitial lung disease (ILD) in the setting of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are limited. We used a nationwide database to determine the incidence and the prevalence of ILD in SLE. Methods: Characteristics of all SLE inpatients admitted between 2011 and 2012 in France were analysed through the French medico‐administrative database. Features associated with the presence of ILD were studied. Cox hazard model was used to measure the impact of ILD on survival from the first stay to 2020. The incidence of ILD in SLE was estimated by analysing the onset of ILD from 2013 to 2020 in SLE patients who had no evidence of ILD in 2013. Results: Between 2011 and 2012, 10,460 SLE patients had at least one hospital stay and could be traced until 2020. Among them, 134 (1.2%) had an ILD diagnosed at baseline. The frequency of ILD in SLE was higher in patients who had an associated autoimmune disease such as Sjögren's syndrome or systemic sclerosis (29.9% vs. 5.9%, p < 0.0001). ILD was associated with an increased risk of death in SLE in the multivariable analysis (hazard ratio [95% CI] 1.992 [1.420–2.794]; p < 0.0001). Among the 31,029 SLE patients with no evidence of ILD at baseline, ILD occurred in 795 (2.6%) between 2013 and 2020. The incidence rate of ILD in SLE was 10.26 for 1000 patient‐years [95% CI: 10.24–10.28]. Conclusion: In SLE, ILD is exceedingly rare, often associated with another systemic autoimmune disorder and appears as a major risk factor for death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a case of a 14-year-old adolescent female who was presented for evaluation of hypersensitivity to glatiramer acetate. After several tests, she was found to have an immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergy to glatiramer acetate. A desensitization protocol was formulated with a gradual dose of escalation period to address the problem.

A 50 year old white man received an incidental ultrasound diagnosis of hypoechoic mass interesting the right seminal vesicle. A CT scan showed the presence of a 7.8 cm roundish cyst, originating from the right seminal vesicle. He had been followed by the removal of the right seminal vesicle and both the cystic lesion. The histological findings of the specimen documented the presence of small round cells compatible with Ewing's sarcoma/PPNET. The patient received also adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation treatment. After 10 years, the follow-up is still negative [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and fatal disease for which therapeutic options are limited, with an unmet need to identify new therapeutic targets. IPF is thought to be the consequence of repeated microlesions of the alveolar epithelium, leading to aberrant epithelial-mesenchymal communication and the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins. The reactivation of developmental pathways, such as Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGFs), is a well-described mechanism during lung fibrogenesis. Secreted FGFs with local paracrine effects can either exert an anti-fibrotic or a pro-fibrotic action during this pathological process through their FGF receptors (FGFRs) and heparan sulfate residues as co-receptors. Among FGFs, endocrine FGFs (FGF29, FGF21, and FGF23) play a central role in the control of metabolism and tissue homeostasis. They are characterized by a low affinity for heparan sulfate, present in the cell vicinity, allowing them to have endocrine activity. Nevertheless, their interaction with FGFRs requires the presence of mandatory co-receptors, alpha and beta Klotho proteins (KLA and KLB). Endocrine FGFs are of growing interest for their anti-fibrotic action during liver, kidney, or myocardial fibrosis. Innovative therapies based on FGF19 or FGF21 analogs are currently being studied in humans during liver fibrosis. Recent data report a similar anti-fibrotic action of endocrine FGFs in the lung, suggesting a systemic regulation of the pulmonary fibrotic process. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the protective effect of endocrine FGFs during the fibrotic processes, with a focus on pulmonary fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of online social networks (OSN) platforms removes communication barriers that are essential to human life, catalyzing social networking growth. However, this emergence has given rise to a negative impact when someone abuses the platform to commit cyberbullying activities. Hence, it is crucial to work on automated cyberbullying-related classification to mitigate the societal phenomena in OSN. The research on the automated classification model for cyberbullying was pioneered over the last decade with growing interest among researchers. It is helpful to track its growth over the decades to elucidate the state-of-arts techniques applied in this field. This paper presents a large amount of literature germane to cyberbullying classification from past to present to provide a comprehensive review. A total of 126 papers were reviewed. This paper emphasizes text-based cyberbullying and multi-modal cyberbullying. The review was presented around the machine learning workflow, encompassing four core sections: dataset analysis, pre-processing analysis, feature analysis, and technique analysis. Based on the critical analysis, limitations are addressed along with the future works that can be conducted to fill the gap in previous research. Furthermore, the review also examined the ethical implications associated with the implementation of these techniques. This review paper is expected to assist readers in fully comprehending the current trend, architecture, and techniques applied to the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractSynchronous molecular fluorescence with multivariate calibration was investigated to assay seven polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and three oxygenated derivatives (O-PAHs) in printer toner. Great sensitivity and a good data compression capacity were achieved; therefore, a relatively small number of factors were used. Correlation coefficients above 0.95 for the calibration functions were obtained, and recoveries lie between 70 and 130% in analyzing synthetic samples (13 PCs). For the real samples assayed, recoveries between 81 and 125% were obtained when compared to the results obtained by gas chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). Despite a certain loss in accuracy when compared to chromatography, the proposed methodology is faster, simpler, and lower in cost. The multivariate tool proved to be an expeditious alternative for screening toner in relation to the presence and abundance of PAHs and derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackgroundMethodsResultsConclusionOlder patients with cancer present intense loss of muscle mass (MM). Calf circumference (CC) is a simple measurement that assesses MM. This study analyzed the accuracy and association between low CC and negative outcomes in older patients with solid tumors.A secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study of inpatients with cancer was conducted. Low CC was defined as CC ≤34 cm in males and ≤33 cm in females. The CC was adjusted for body mass index by reducing 3 or 7 cm for BMI (in kg/m2) of 25–29.9 and 30–39.9, respectively. Accuracy tests and regression analyses were performed to evaluate the criterion validity of low CC for predicting length of stay (LOS) and readmission.A total of 248 inpatients were evaluated (69.7 [standard deviation (SD) 7.2]; 59.7% men). Among them, 31% had a low CC. A low CC (crude and adjusted for BMI) showed poor performance in predicting LOS and readmission. In the adjusted analysis, older patients with low CC had a 2.45-fold increased risk of LOS ≥ 4 days.Low CC did not perform well in predicting negative outcomes in older patients with solid tumors. However, low CC was positively associated with LOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Axial postural abnormalities (APAs), characterized by their frequency, disabling nature, and resistance to pharmacological treatments, significantly impact Parkinson's disease and atypical Parkinsonism patients. Despite advancements in diagnosing, assessing, and understanding their pathophysiology, managing these complications remains a significant challenge. Often underestimated by healthcare professionals, these disturbances can exacerbate disability. This systematic review assesses botulinum toxin treatments' effectiveness, alone and with rehabilitation, in addressing APAs in Parkinson's disease, utilizing MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, and SCOPUS databases for source material. Of the 1087 records retrieved, 16 met the selection criteria. Most research has focused on botulinum toxin (BoNT) as the primary treatment for camptocormia and Pisa syndrome, utilizing mostly observational methods. Despite dose and injection site variations, a common strategy was using electromyography-guided injections, occasionally enhanced with ultrasound. Patients with Pisa syndrome notably saw consistent improvements in APAs and pain. However, studies on the combined effects of botulinum toxin and rehabilitation are limited, and antecollis is significantly under-researched. These findings recommend precise BoNT injections into hyperactive muscles in well-selected patients by skilled clinicians, avoiding compensatory muscles, and underscore the necessity of early rehabilitation. Rehabilitation is crucial in a multidisciplinary approach to managing APAs, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary team of experts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article surveys probabilistic approaches to modeling information retrieval. The basic concepts of probabilistic approaches to information retrieval are outlined and the principles and assumptions upon which the approaches are based are presented. The various models proposed in the development of IR are described, classified, and compared using a common formalism. New approaches that constitute the basis of future research are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with panic disorders show a deficit of GABA[sub A] receptors in the hippocampus, parahippocampus and orbitofrontal cortex. Synaptic clustering of GABA[sub A] receptors in mice heterozygous for the γ² subunit was reduced, mainly in hippocampus and cerebral cortex. The γ2[sup ±] mice showed enhanced behavioral inhibition toward natural aversive stimuli and heightened responsiveness in trace fear conditioning and ambiguous cue discrimination learning. Implicit and spatial memory as well as long-term potentiation in hippocampus were unchanged. Thus γ2[sup ±] mice represent a model of anxiety characterized by harm avoidance behavior and an explicit memory bias for threat cues, resulting in heightened sensitivity to negative associations. This model implicates GABA[sub A]-receptor dysfunction in patients as a causal predisposition to anxiety disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses a study which shows that alpha1-type GABAA receptors are rendered insensitive to allosteric modulation by benzodiazepine-site ligands. Non-showing of the sedative, amnesic and partly the anticonvulsant action of diazepam; Retention of the anxiolytic-like, myorelaxant, motor-impairing and ethanol-potentiating effects.

Examines the alveolar epithelium which play an important role in the development and resolution of the inflammatory reaction into the alveolar space. Induction of monolayer detachment or cellular cytotoxicity; Effect of inflammatory mediators on surfactant synthesis; Combination of surfactant proteins in alveolar cells.

Presents a study which identified the second bile acid mediate element (BARE) to determine the effects of bile acid on the transcriptional activity of the CYPT7A gene. Reference to other studies; Detailed information on the methodology used to conduct the study; Results of the study; Discussion surrounding the results of the study.

Presents a study to characterize the effect of alveolar macrophage secretory products on endothelim production by rat alveolar type II cells in primary culture. Details of study; Findings of study.

Analyzes the kinematics of probabilistic term weights at retrieval time for different information retrieval (IR) models. Concept of IR probabilistic modeling; Problems arising from applying probabilistic IR; Description of the models.

Investigates the effect of bile acids on the transcriptional activity of the cholesterol 7-alpha-hydroxylase gene (CYP7A) using luciferase as a reporter gene. Dissection of the 5'-flanking region of the CYP7A gene; Identification of the second bile acid response element (BARE) in the CYP7A promoter.

Characterizes the effect of alveolar macrophage (AM) secretory products on endothelin-1 (ET-1) production by rat alveolar type II cells in primary culture. ET-1 concentrations in cell culture supernatants; Mediation of effects by interleukin-1beta; Chemicals, enzymes and cDNA probes.

The article discusses a study of patients successfully treated with doxazosin, as an alternative to prazosin, for nightmares associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). After initiation of adjunctive doxazosin, an alpha1-adrenergic antagonist prescribed to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia, nightmares of two patients were significantly lessen and one experienced improvement for seven weeks.

The article discusses the surgical margin (SM) after a radical prostatectomy which is more complex. It cites on the clinical significance of close surgical margin (CSMs) with tumour approaching but a far less investigated field of research. The article also discusses the principles to ascertain the significance of CSMs which include uniform definition, accurate pathology examination and correct prognostic assessment.

Metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are considered the major risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Although the pathological mechanisms underlying the mutual development of obesity and T2D are difficult to define, a better understanding of the molecular aspects is of utmost importance to identify novel therapeutic targets. Recently, a class of non-coding RNAs, called microRNAs (miRNAs), are emerging as key modulators of metabolic abnormalities. There is increasing evidence supporting the role of intra- and extracellular miRNAs as determinants of the crosstalk between adipose tissues, liver, skeletal muscle and other organs, triggering the paracrine communication among different tissues. miRNAs may be considered as risk factors for CVD due to their correlation with cardiovascular events, and in particular, may be related to the most prominent risk factors. In this review, we describe the associations observed between miRNAs expression levels and the most common cardiovascular risk factors. Furthermore, we sought to depict the molecular aspect of the interplay between obesity and diabetes, investigating the role of microRNAs in the interorgan crosstalk. Finally, we discussed the fascinating hypothesis of the loss of protective factors, such as antioxidant defense systems regulated by such miRNAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nintedanib is an approved therapy for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Some patients treated with nintedanib experience weight loss. Exploratory data suggest that low body mass index or weight loss are associated with worse outcomes in patients with IPF. We investigated whether BMI at baseline or weight loss over 52 weeks was associated with FVC decline, or influenced the effect of nintedanib, in patients with IPF.Methods: Using pooled data from the two INPULSIS trials, we analysed the rate of decline in FVC (mL/yr) over 52 weeks in patients treated with nintedanib and placebo in subgroups by baseline BMI (< 25; ≥25 to < 30; ≥30 kg/m2) and by weight loss over 52 weeks (≤5; > 5%) using random coefficient regression.Results: In the placebo group, the mean rate of FVC decline over 52 weeks was numerically greater in patients with lower baseline BMI (- 283.3 [SE 22.4], - 207.9 [20.9] and - 104.5 [21.4] in patients with BMI < 25 kg/m2, ≥25 to < 30 kg/m2 and ≥ 30 kg/m2, respectively). Nintedanib reduced the rate of FVC decline versus placebo in all subgroups by BMI, with a consistent treatment effect across subgroups (interaction p = 0.31). In the placebo group, the mean rate of FVC decline was numerically greater in patients with > 5% than ≤5% weight loss over 52 weeks (- 312.7 [SE 32.2] versus - 199.5 [SE 14.4] mL/year). Nintedanib reduced the rate of FVC decline versus placebo in both subgroups by weight loss, with a greater treatment effect in patients with > 5% weight loss (interaction p = 0.0008). The adverse event profile of nintedanib was similar across subgroups.Conclusions: In patients with IPF, lower BMI and weight loss may be associated with faster decline in FVC. Nintedanib reduces the rate of FVC decline both in patients who lose weight on treatment and those who do not.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ; Nos. NCT01335464 and NCT01335477 ; URL: www.clinicaltrials.gov . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Nitrergic neurotransmission in the Insular cortex controls baroreflex function. • Insular nNOS play an inhibitory influence on the parasympathetic arm of baroreflex while facilitates the sympathetic arm. • Nitric Oxid within the IC does not act via sGC activation to modulate baroreflex function. Insular cortex is a brain structure involved in the modulation of autonomic activity and cardiovascular function. The nitric oxide/cyclic guanosine-3′,5′-monophosphate pathway is a prominent signaling mechanism in the central nervous system, controlling behavioral and physiological responses. Nevertheless, despite evidence regarding the presence of nitric oxide-synthesizing neurons in the insular cortex, its role in the control of autonomic and cardiovascular function has never been reported. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the involvement of nitric oxide/cyclic guanosine-3′,5′-monophosphate pathway mediated by neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) activation within the insular cortex in the modulation of baroreflex responses in unanesthetized rats. For this, we evaluated the effect of bilateral microinjection of either the nitric oxide scavenger carboxy-PTIO, the selective neuronal nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nω-Propyl- l -arginine or the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor ODQ into the insular cortex on the bradycardia evoked by blood pressure increases in response to intravenous infusion of phenylephrine, and the tachycardia caused by blood pressure decreases evoked by intravenous infusion of sodium nitroprusside. Bilateral microinjection of either NPLA or carboxy-PTIO into the insular cortex increased the reflex bradycardic response, whereas the reflex tachycardia was decreased by these treatments. Bilateral microinjection of the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor into the insular cortex did not affect any parameter of baroreflex function evaluated. Overall, our findings provide evidence that insular cortex nitrergic signaling, acting via neuronal nitric oxide synthase, plays a prominent role in control of baroreflex function. However, control of reflex responses seems to be independent of soluble guanylate cyclase activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to define the clinical significance of low-volume metastasis, a comprehensive meta-analysis of published data and individual data obtained from articles mentioning micrometastases (MIC) and isolated tumor cells (ITC) in cervical cancer was performed, with a follow up of at least 3 years. We performed a systematic literature review and meta-analysis, following Cochrane's review methods guide and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The primary outcome was the disease-free survival (DFS), and the secondary outcome was the overall survival (OS). The hazard ratio (HR) was taken as the measure of the association between the low-volume metastases (MIC+ITC and MIC alone) and DFS or OS; it quantified the hazard of an event in the MIC (+/− ITC) group compared to the hazard in node-negative (N0) patients. A random-effect meta-analysis model using the inverse variance method was selected for pooling. Forest plots were used to display the HRs and risk differences within individual trials and overall. Eleven articles were finally retained for the meta-analysis. In the analysis of DFS in patients with low-volume metastasis (MIC + ITC), the HR was increased to 2.60 (1.55–4.34) in the case of low-volume metastasis vs. N0. The presence of MICs had a negative prognostic impact, with an HR of 4.10 (2.71–6.20) compared to N0. Moreover, this impact was worse than that of MIC pooled with ITCs. Concerning OS, the meta-analysis shows an HR of 5.65 (2.81–11.39) in the case of low-volume metastases vs. N0. The presence of MICs alone had a negative effect, with an HR of 6.94 (2.56–18.81). In conclusion, the presence of MIC seems to be associated with a negative impact on both the DFS and OS and should be treated as MAC. • We performed a meta-analysis of published and individual data to define the significance of low-volume metastasis. • The presence of micrometastases seems to be associated with a negative impact on the disease-free survival. • Patients with isolated tumor cells should be considered like negative lymph node patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The manuscript explores the cold extraction process for producing low-alcohol beer in the International Pale Lager style. • Utilization of Pale Ale and Château Cara Clair malts, cold mashing techniques, and precise brewing methods. • Comprehensive physical-chemical analyses, sensory evaluations, and electronic tongue assessments were conducted. • Valuable insights provided for crafting low-alcohol beers with optimal sensory attributes and adherence to quality standards. • Comparing the produced beer with leading brands using an electronic tongue and principal component analysis (PCA) Grains germinate, dry, and then undergo crushing before being combined with hot water to yield a sweet and viscous liquid known as wort. To enhance flavor and aroma compounds while maintaining a lower alcohol content, cold water is utilized during wort production without increasing its density. Recent years have witnessed a surge in demand for beverages with reduced alcohol content, reflecting shifting consumer preferences towards healthier lifestyles. Notably, consumers of low-alcohol beers seek products that closely mimic traditional beers. In response, batches of low-alcohol beer were meticulously crafted using a cold extraction method with room temperature water, resulting in a beer with 1.11% alcohol by volume (ABV). Sensory evaluations yielded a favorable score of 27 out of 50, indicating adherence to style standards and absence of major technical flaws. Furthermore, electronic taste profiling revealed a striking similarity between the low-alcohol beer and the benchmark International Pale Lager style, exemplified by commercial beers (5 and 0.03% ABV). Notably, the reduced-alcohol variant boasted lower caloric content compared to both standard and non-alcoholic counterparts. Consequently, the cold extraction approach emerges as a promising technique for producing low-alcohol beers within the International Pale Lager style, catering to evolving consumer preferences and health-conscious trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Launois-Bensaude syndrome (LBS) is a rare disease, characterized by the accumulation of fatty tissue predominantly in the neck, shoulders and thorax, whose diagnostic is clinical. Objectives: We describe a new case in a 73 year-old man. As the patient was obese, complained of snoring and was treated for hypertension, we looked for a morbid association with an obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). Methods: A polysomnography (PSG) and a cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed. Results: PSG demonstrated OSAS with an apnea-hypopnea index of 43/h. Cervical MRI showed fatty infiltration resulting in airway narrowing at the pharyngeal but not at the tracheal level. Only, 3 cases of such a morbid association have already been published; in 2 of these patients was a tracheal compression. More over a metabolic syndrome was present. Conclusions: This observation draws attention to the need for seeking OSAS among patients affected by LBS, even in a moderate form, and emphasises the roles of the upper airway narrowing by the fat infiltration as well as the role of the metabolic syndrome in the genesis of OSAS. Please cite this paper as: Jalladeau E, Crestani B, Laissy J-P and Vecchierini MF. A case of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: unusual comorbidity. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2008; 2: 239–241. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents an introduction to the special section of the issue highlighting contextual information retrieval systems.

Since their appearance, programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are massively and predominantly used as the central controller in automation systems. Unfortunately, due to the poor performance of the majority of these devices, the typical role of PLCs in automation systems becomes restricted to a simple controller, since applications with more sophisticated computational requirements tend to be handled by external processing units along with the PLCs. To solve this issue, this work improves novel architecture proposals based on data flow machines, circuit simulation theory, and the memoization technique to achieve a performance boost based on the scan time reduction. Along with the architectural improvements, this paper evaluates the impact of different execution units' types and quantities in a cycle-accurate simulator (CAS) that was specially developed to simulate the PLC cores. Furthermore, in order to perform a robust and complete evaluation, the silicon areas of the simulated architectures are calculated using the McPAT framework to establish the performance/area relationship of the simulated cores. Evaluation results show best scan time reductions of up to 68% for cores with single execution units and up to 89% for cores with multiple execution units, as well as a best-case of 50% scan time reduction with an acceptable impact on the silicon area. Lastly, the evaluation of the results of the proposed improved cores with multiple execution units shows that they outperform the theoretical performance limit of multiple execution units based on Amdahl's law up to 4 execution units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Livestock farming in large-scale pasture landscapes can fulfil the economic and ecological requirements for sustainable, biodiversity-friendly agriculture of the European Union (EU). However, little is known about the grazing systems that have maintained these pastures for centuries. The traditional grazing methods and their effects on the cattle behaviour were therefore studied at 23 mountain summer farms in the Asiago upland (northeastern Italy). Traditional methods of free-ranging and herding were the only techniques adopted by farmers. Only environmental factors (size and perimeter length of the pastoral unit) were significantly associated with the grazing method used. Free-ranging was more often performed in small and homogeneous farms, while herding was done in large and heterogeneous farms. Herding led to a more homogeneous grazer distribution and better regulated the lengths of the cattle daily routes than free-ranging. The grazing direction and resting sites were almost exclusively affected by environmental factors. Cattle grazed predominantly in the direction from which the wind was blowing, and preferred resting at windy sites in the daytime (escaping from flies) and at open areas close to woods during the night (being protected against cold winds). Other traits shared between free-ranging and herding were: the seasonal organisation of grazing into periods and camps; re-grazing of the same surface within a few days; everyday use of different pasture types; and rhythms in the cattle daily activities. Even if they may have lower productivity compared to rotational stocking, the studied traditional grazing methods, especially herding, have the advantages of respecting spontaneous cattle behaviour, producing more savoury cheeses, and better maintaining heterogeneous and biodiversity-rich landscapes. More attention should be paid to traditional grazing methods within measures aiming to conserve cultural heritage and agricultural biodiversity. • Grazing methods in the Venetian Alps include only traditional free-ranging and herding forms. • Herding allows a better grazing distribution in large pastoral units. • Cattle behaviour is affected more by environmental factors than grazing methods. • Traditional grazing methods contribute to maintaining extensive silvopastoral areas. • Traditional grazing methods respect the spontaneous cattle behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We included women addressed for the exploration of an undetermined or suspicious mass, excluded all patients that did not undergo ultrasound or MR imaging. Moreover, MUFI may help at improving diagnostic performances of the combination of simple ultrasound and MR imaging. [Extracted from the article]