Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Profiling for primary-care presentation, investigation and referral for liver cancers: evidence from a national audit

Background and aim The incidence of liver cancer across Europe is increasing. There is a lack of evidence within the current literature on the identification and investigation of liver cancer within primary care. We aimed to profile liver cancer recognition and assessment as well as the timeliness of liver cancer diagnosis from within the primary-care setting in the UK. Methods Data were obtained from the National Audit of Cancer Diagnosis in Primary Care 2009–2010 and analysed. We calculated the patient interval, the primary-care interval and the number of prereferral consultations for liver cancer. We then compared these data with prior data on the respective indicators for other common cancers. Results The median patient interval was 9 days (interquartile range 0–31 days), and the median primary-care interval for liver cancer was 11 days (interquartile range 0–40 days). Of the 90 patients, 21 (23.3%) had three or more consultations with their general practitioner before specialist referral. For the three metrics (patient interval, primary-care interval and number of prereferral consultations), liver cancer has average or longer intervals when compared with other cancers. The most common symptomatic presentation of liver cancer within the primary-care setting was right upper quadrant pain (11%), followed by decompensated liver failure (9%). Of the patients, 12% were diagnosed with liver cancer on the basis of an incidental finding of an abnormal liver function test. Conclusion This study provides a detailed and thorough overview of the recognition of liver cancer and the promptness of liver cancer identification in an English context, and should inform strategies for improving the timeliness of diagnosis.
A DTI-based model for TMS using the independent impedance method with frequency-dependent tissue parameters

Accurate simulations on detailed realistic head models are necessary to gain a better understanding of the response to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Hitherto, head models with simplified geometries and constant isotropic material properties are often used, whereas some biological tissues have anisotropic characteristics which vary naturally with frequency. Moreover, most computational methods do not take the tissue permittivity into account. Therefore, we calculate the electromagnetic behaviour due to TMS in a head model with realistic geometry and where realistic dispersive anisotropic tissue properties are incorporated, based on T1-weighted and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance images. This paper studies the impact of tissue anisotropy, permittivity and frequency dependence, using the anisotropic independent impedance method. The results show that anisotropy yields differences up to 32% and 19% of the maximum induced currents and electric field, respectively. Neglecting the permittivity values leads to a decrease of about 72% and 24% of the maximum currents and field, respectively. Implementing the dispersive effects of biological tissues results in a difference of 6% of the maximum currents. The cerebral voxels show limited sensitivity of the induced electric field to changes in conductivity and permittivity, whereas the field varies approximately linearly with frequency. These findings illustrate the importance of including each of the above parameters in the model and confirm the need for accuracy in the applied patient-specific method, which can be used in computer-assisted TMS.
Are self-deceivers enhancing positive affect or denying negative affect? Toward an understanding of implicit affective processes

Self-deception is an important construct in social, personality, and clinical literatures. Although historical and clinical views of self-deception have regarded it as defensive in nature and operation, modern views of this individual difference variable instead highlight its apparent benefits to subjective mental health. The present four studies reinforce the latter view by showing that self-deception predicts positive priming effects, but not negative priming effects, in reaction time tasks sensitive to individual differences in affective priming. In all studies, individuals higher in self-deception displayed stronger positive priming effects, defined in terms of facilitation with two positive stimuli in a consecutive sequence, but self-deception did not predict negative priming effects in the same tasks. Importantly, these effects occurred both in tasks that called for the retrieval of self-knowledge (Study 1) and those that did not (Studies 2–4). This broad pattern supports substantive views of self-deception rather than views narrowly focused on self-presentation processes. Implications for understanding self-deception are discussed.
Disordered Binding of Small Molecules to Aβ(12–28)*

Background: Inhibition of pathogenic protein aggregation by small molecules is poorly understood. Results: Aggregation inhibitors alter the free energy landscape of a relevant fragment of Alzheimer amyloid-β peptide in subtle but complex fashion. Conclusion: Intrinsic disorder of disease proteins persists at the level of binding small molecules. Significance: Hallmark characteristics and efficacy of inhibitors can be reconciled with lack of specificity. In recent years, an increasing number of small molecules and short peptides have been identified that interfere with aggregation and/or oligomerization of the Alzheimer β-amyloid peptide (Aβ). Many of them possess aromatic moieties, suggesting a dominant role for those in interacting with Aβ along various stages of the aggregation process. In this study, we attempt to elucidate whether interactions of such aromatic inhibitors with monomeric Aβ(12–28) point to a common mechanism of action by performing atomistic molecular dynamics simulations at equilibrium. Our results suggest that, independently of the presence of inhibitors, monomeric Aβ(12–28) populates a partially collapsed ensemble that is largely devoid of canonical secondary structure at 300 K and neutral pH. The small molecules have different affinities for Aβ(12–28) that can be partially rationalized by the balance of aromatic and charged moieties constituting the molecules. There are no predominant binding modes, although aggregation inhibitors preferentially interact with the N-terminal portion of the fragment (residues 13–20). Analysis of the free energy landscape of Aβ(12–28) reveals differences highlighted by altered populations of a looplike conformer in the presence of inhibitors. We conclude that intrinsic disorder of Aβ persists at the level of binding small molecules and that inhibitors can significantly alter properties of monomeric Aβ via multiple routes of differing specificity.
A Paradox for Admission Control of Multiclass Queueing Network with Differentiated Service

In this paper we present counter-intuitive examples for the multiclass queueing network, where each station may serve more than one job class with differentiated service priority and each job may require service sequentially by more than one service station. In our examples, the network performance is improved even when more jobs are admitted for service.
Current Clinical Research of Acute Kidney Injury in China

IntroductIon Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical syndrome characterized by an abrupt decline of renal function and has been recognized as a major healthcare problem affecting millions of patients worldwide. AKI is strongly associated with increased resource utilization, mortality, and risk for the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). [1‐3] In the past decade, a number of definitions regarding AKI (including Risk Injury Failure Loss End‐Stage Renal Disease [RIFLE], Acute Kidney Injury Network [AKIN], Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes [KIDGO]) have been published, which greatly stimulated the epidemiologic and clinical study of AKI throughout the world. With 1.3 billion people, China is the largest developing country in the world. Although the nationwide community‐based survey on the incidence rate of AKI in China is still not available, a number of studies for specific patient groups (such as hospitalized patients, Intensive Care Unit [ICU] patients or children) have been conducted. The present study will evaluate the epidemiology, etiology, and current status of the diagnosis and treatment of AKI in China.
Distinct microtubule and chromatin characteristics of human oocytes after failed in-vivo and in-vitro meiotic maturation.

BACKGROUND While a complete failure of meiotic maturation following hCG administration is rare during IVF cycles, cases arise in which patients repeatedly display a high incidence of failure to complete maturation to metaphase II (MII) in vivo. For the immature oocytes of such patients, our objectives were (i) to ask whether progression to MII could be supported in vitro, and (ii) to define their microtubule/chromatin properties following in-vitro maturation (IVM). Together, these studies were aimed at augmenting our understanding of factors underlying meiotic arrest in the human. METHODS Cases are presented here for two patients (A and B) producing oocytes that recurrently showed the inability to mature to metaphase II in vivo. Following IVM attempts, chromatin and microtubule characteristics were identified in those oocytes that remained arrested during meiosis I. RESULTS In patient A, meiotically arrested oocytes exhibited clear defects in spindle and chromatin arrangements. In contrast, the majority of oocytes from patient B displayed normal MI and MII spindles with aligned chromosomes, although some oocytes exhibited indications for possible defects in cell cycle control. CONCLUSIONS Together, these analyses illustrate two cases with oocytes exhibiting a common gross defect, that is meiotic maturation arrest, but revealing different aetiologies or manifestations as evidenced by the presence or absence of abnormal spindle/chromatin organization. This work reinforces the existence of intrinsic defects in oocytes of some patients, the molecular and cellular bases of which merit further investigation.
Delivery Mode and Efficacy of BMP-2 in Association with Implants

Bone healing may be improved in implant patients by the administration of osteogenic agents, such as bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2). But the efficacy of BMP-2 depends upon its mode of application. We hypothesized that BMP-2 is capable of a higher osteogenic efficacy when delivered physiologically, viz., when incorporated into a calcium-phosphate carrier that mimics mineralized bone matrix, than when administered via simple pharmacological modes, such as by adsorption onto a carrier surface. Using an ectopic rat model, we compared the osteoinductive efficacies of calcium-phosphate implant-coatings bearing either incorporated, adsorbed, or incorporated and adsorbed BMP-2. When adsorbed directly onto the naked implant surface, BMP-2 was not osteogenic. When adsorbed onto a calcium-phosphate coating, it was osteoinductive, but not highly efficacious. When BMP-2 was incorporated into calcium-phosphate coatings, it was a potent bone-inducer, whose efficacy was compromised, not potentiated, by the additional deposition of an adsorbed pool.
Rationality, euthanasia and the sanctity of life

Debates concerning the issue of voluntary euthanasia often make reference to the ‘sanctity of life’ principle. For the purposes of this paper, euthanasia is taken to mean death brought about through medical means at the request of the patient, subject to prescribed safeguards and conditions. It is difficult to succinctly define the sanctity of life but, essentially, its proponents maintain that the taking of (human) life is intrinsically wrong, that this is a self-evident principle, and that this principle has a special and superior status compared to other ethical principles such as utility or respect for autonomy. Several arguments for the sanctity of life principle are analysed. Three asserted features of the principle are examined: the principle’s ethical primacy, its special application to euthanasia, and its merit as a basis for legislation and codes of ethics. Supporters of legalised euthanasia typically assume that it would be performed by doctors, after consultation with psychiatrists, so the codes of ethics of the Australian Medical Association and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists are cited. It is concluded that the arguments for the sanctity of life principle are inadequate. The principle is at odds with other key principles in the cited codes of ethics. Furthermore, it is plausible that the principle is not derived from rational deliberation. It should not be granted the status of an ethical principle but is more akin to a psychological state. As such it does not have merit as a basis for legislation or medical ethics.
ROCK inhibition promotes microtentacles that enhance reattachment of breast cancer cells

The presence of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in blood predicts poor patient outcome and CTC frequency is correlated with higher risk of metastasis. Recently discovered, novel microtubule-based structures, microtentacles, can enhance reattachment of CTCs to the vasculature. Microtentacles are highly dynamic membrane protrusions formed in detached cells and occur when physical forces generated by the outwardly expanding microtubules overcome the contractile force of the actin cortex. Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) is a major regulator of actomyosin contractility and Rho/ROCK over-activation is implicated in tumor metastasis. ROCK inhibitors are gaining popularity as potential cancer therapeutics based on their success in reducing adherent tumor cell migration and invasion. However, the effect of ROCK inhibition on detached cells in circulation is largely unknown. In this study, we use breast tumor cells in suspension to mimic detached CTCs and show that destabilizing the actin cortex through ROCK inhibition in suspended cells promotes the formation of microtentacles and enhances reattachment of cells from suspension. Conversely, increasing actomyosin contraction by Rho over-activation reduces microtentacle frequency and reattachment. Although ROCK inhibitors may be effective in reducing adherent tumor cell behavior, our results indicate that they could inadvertently increase metastatic potential of non-adherent CTCs by increasing their reattachment efficacy.
An investigation into the counselling-type work of Roman Catholic priests: A survey of one diocese in Northern Ireland

Professional counselling has been criticised as being the preserve of the elite, and neither available nor affordable for the vast majority of society. However, there are other sources of help which people avail themselves of in times of need. One such source has been the local clergyman. This study looked at the helping service provided by Catholic priests working in pastoral situations in a Northern Irish diocese. Based on a questionnaire survey of 32 Catholic priests (25% of the diocese) the study looked first at the types of problems being presented to clergy, and how they responded to them. It examined their training for this work, as well as their attitudes to it, support for Catholic priests in this aspect of their work and also at their referral practices. Findings in respect of problems presented and training were in line with previous research. A wide variety of problems was encountered by Catholic priests where the most common were bereavement, alcohol or substance abuse, marital disharmony, relationship problems and terminal illness. Despite very positive attitudes towards counselling-type work and its importance in their ministry, Catholic priests' initial training in this area was reported as largely irrelevant to their current needs and there was a prevailing view of dissatisfaction. A level of self-confidence was displayed that seemed incongruent with the training in this field. Responses in respect of support and referral were contrary to previous studies. Priests seemed to be engaging in referral and reported high levels of personal but mainly informal support for this work.The findings are discussed in relation to priests continuing to undertake counselling-type work.
Glial cell‐derived neurotrophic factor increases migration of human chondrosarcoma cells via ERK and NF‐κB pathways

Invasion of tumor cells is the primary cause of therapeutic failure in the treatment of malignant chondrosarcomas. Glial cell‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) plays a crucial role in migration and metastasis of human cancer cells. Integrins are the major adhesive molecules in mammalian cells. Here we found that GDNF directed the migration and increased cell surface expression of αv and β3 integrin in human chondrosarcoma cells. Pretreated of JJ012 cells with MAPK kinase (MEK) inhibitors PD98059 or U0126 inhibited the GDNF‐mediated migration and integrin expression. Stimulation of cells with GDNF increased the phosphorylation of MEK and extracellular signal‐regulating kinase (ERK). In addition, NF‐κB inhibitor (PDTC) or IκB protease inhibitor (TPCK) also inhibited GDNF‐mediated cells migration and integrin up‐regulation. Stimulation of cells with GDNF induced IκB kinase (IKKα/β) phosphorylation, IκB phosphorylation, p65 Ser536 phosphorylation, and κB‐luciferase activity. Furthermore, the GDNF‐mediated increasing of κB‐luciferase activity was inhibited by PD98059, U0126, PDTC and TPCK or MEK, ERK, IKKα, and IKKβ mutants. Taken together, these results suggest that the GDNF acts through MEK/ERK, which in turn activates IKKα/β and NF‐κB, resulting in the activations of αvβ3 integrin and contributing the migration of human chondrosarcoma cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 220: 499–507, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lipid-Laden Alveolar Macrophages and pH Monitoring in Gastroesophageal Reflux-Related Respiratory Symptoms

Lipid-laden alveolar macrophages and pH monitoring have been used in the diagnosis of chronic aspiration in children with gastroesophageal reflux (GER). This study was conducted to prove a correlation between the detection of alimentary pulmonary fat phagocytosis and an increasing amount of proximal gastroesophageal reflux. It was assumed that proximal gastroesophageal reflux better correlates with aspiration than distal GER. Patients from 6 months to 16 years with unexplained recurrent wheezy bronchitis and bronchial hyperreactivity, or recurrent pneumonia with chronic cough underwent 24-hour double-channel pH monitoring and bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Aspiration of gastric content was determined by counting lipid laden alveolar macrophages from BAL specimens. There were no correlations between any pH-monitoring parameters and counts of lipid-laden macrophages in the whole study population, even when restricting analysis to those with abnormal reflux index expressing clinically significant GER. Quantifying lipid-laden alveolar macrophages from BAL in children with gastroesophageal-related respiratory disorders does not have an acceptable specificity to prove chronic aspiration as an underlying etiology. Therefore, research for other markers of pulmonary aspiration is needed.
The Meaning of Marriage to the Voluntarily Childless Couple

THE MEANING OF MARRIAGE TO THE VOLUNTARILY CHILDLESS COUPLE by June Ann deRoux-Smith Chairperson: Selma Chaij Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission. ABSTRACT OF GRADUATE RESEARCH DissertationOF GRADUATE RESEARCH Dissertation Andrews University School of Education Title: THE MEANING OF MARRIAGE TO THE VOLUNTARILY CHILDLESS COUPLE Name of researcher: June Ann deRoux-Smith Name and degree o f faculty adviser: Selma Chaij, Ph.D. Date completed: July, 1987 Problem The literature is replete with findings to show that childlessness is a contemporary and growing trend. However, no known study has been done to explore what marriage means to the couple who chooses childlessness. Therefore, the purpose o f this study was to explore the meaning of marriage to the voluntarily
Uniform attractors for a non-autonomous semilinear heat equation with memory

In this paper we investigate the asymptotic behavior, as time tends to infinity, of the solutions of an non-autonomous integro-partial differential equation describing the heat flow in a rigid heat conductor with memory. Existence and uniqueness of solutions is provided. Moreover, under proper assumptions on the heat flux memory kernel and on the magnitude of nonlinearity, the existence of uniform absorbing sets and of a global uniform attractor is achieved. In case of quasiperiodic dependence of time of the external heat supply, the above attractor is shown to have finite Hausdorff dimension.
Assessing the performance of SpeedInfo radar traffic sensors

ABSTRACT Traffic speed is a crucial input for real-time traffic management applications. Operating agencies typically deploy their own sensors to collect the measurements, e.g., loop detectors. Recently, SpeedInfo emerged with a different paradigm for traffic speed collection: instead of selling hardware to operating agencies, at each link the company deploys its own Doppler radar in a self-contained wireless unit to measure traffic speeds and then sells the speed data. This study uses well-tuned loop detector-based speed measurements to evaluate 15 of the Doppler radar sensors over several months while the two traffic data collection systems were operating concurrently. The extended study period includes potentially challenging and transient conditions for the radar sensors: both recurrent (rush hour congestion and late night low flow) and nonrecurrent (incidents and precipitation). The analysis took a broad overview, comparing speed measurements from the radar sensors against the concurrent loop detector data and then explicitly looked for any anomalous pattern in the radar data such as latency and system outages. The work found the radar measurements are generally good, but also identified several points that should be considered before deployment, including latency, different biases in free flow and congestion, vulnerability to precipitation, and sensitivity to mounting angle.
Science and Engineering Ph.D. Students’ Career Outcomes, by Gender

We examine differences in the careers of men and women Ph.D.s from two major European universities. Having performed regression analysis, we find that women are more likely than men to be employed in public administration when the alternatives are either academia or industry. Between the latter two alternatives, women are more likely to be employed in academia. These gender differences persist after accounting for Ph.D.s’ and their supervisors’ characteristics. Gender gaps are smaller for Ph.D.s with large research outputs and for those who conducted applied research. Restricting the analysis to Ph.D.s who pursued postdoc training, women are less likely than men to be employed in highly ranked universities, even after controlling for their research outputs. Finally, we find gender differences in Ph.D.s’ appointment to professorship, which are explained by the Ph.D.s’ publication output and the quality of their postdoc training.