Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Modifiable and Non-modifiable predisposing Risk Factors of Myocardial Infarction -A Review

Myocardial infarction is a key component of the burden of cardiovascular crises which is a common presentation of ischemic heart disease. It is a disease with serious consequences in mortality, morbidity, and cost to the society. It is characterized by chest pain, epigastric discomfort, general malaise, sweating and anxiety. These symptoms may affect by different modifiable and non modifiable predisposing risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, physical activity, alcohol use , age, family history, abnormal lipids, obesity, high risk diet, smoking and psychosocial stress. This review has considered these predisposing risk factors. Smoking followed by hypertension, abdominal obesity and diabetes are the most important risk factors. Fruits and vegetables consumption is characterized among less common factors while alcohol is a protective risk factor. Various uncommon factors block coronary artery thus causing an MI. A healthy life style and proper physical activity can reduce the occurrence of MI in normal or otherwise healthy patients. While morphine sulphate subcutaneously or intravenously, reperfusion with direct angioplasty and coronary angiography should be considered for patients without identifiable mechanical complications.
Does Democratization Foster State Consolidation? Democratic Rule, Political Order, and Administrative Capacity

The established view in political science is that a sound and functioning state has to be in place before democracy can be introduced. State first, and then democracy. While acknowledging the existence of a basic state infrastructure as a necessary starting point, we examine the possibility that democratization itself may play an important role in the subsequent development and consolidation of the state. We do this by addressing the major conceptual and methodological shortcomings of existing research on this topic. The results of our panel analysis, covering a population of 122 countries, show that both a country's level of democracy and the interaction between degree and duration of democracy positively and significantly affect the consolidation of the state and of its two key individual dimensions, namely, political order and administrative capacity.
Evaluation of pretreatment serum interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor alpha as a potential biomarker for recurrence in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma

Background Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) constitutes 3 percent of all cancers with predominant occurrence in middle aged and elderly males. Tumour recurrence worsens disease prognosis and decreases quality of life in patients with OSCC. Proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) have been suggested to play a certain role in variety of tumours. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of pretreatment serum IL-6 and TNF-α levels on tumour recurrence in patients with OSCC in order to identify potential biomarkers for the early detection of disease recurrence. Material and Methods The patients with newly diagnosed OSCC were treated and followed from the first visit from November 2006 until January 2008. Serum IL-6 and TNF-α concentrations were measured. The records of the patients were re-examined in July 2012 and data were recorded about cancer characteristics and tumour recurrence. Disease free survival was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier survival curves, log rank test and Cox proportional hazards regression. Results Serum IL-6 was shown as an independent risk factor for tumour recurrence. Conclusions Pretreatment serum IL-6 concentration may be a useful biomarker for identification of OSCC patients with increased risk of the disease recurrence. Key words: Serum IL-6, serum TNF-α, oral cancer, recurrence.
The Shared Circuits Model: How Control, Mirroring and Simulation Can Enable Imitation, Deliberation, and Mindreading

Imitation, deliberation, and mindreading are characteristically human sociocognitive skills. Research on imitation and its role in social cognition is flourishing across various disciplines; it is here surveyed under headings of behavior, subpersonal mechanisms, and functions of imitation. A model is then advanced within which many of the developments surveyed can be located and explained. The shared circuits model explains how imitation, deliberation, and mindreading can be enabled by subpersonal mechanisms of control, mirroring and simulation. It is cast at a middle, functional level of description, between the level of neural implementation and the level of conscious perceptions and intentional actions. The shared circuits model connects shared informational dynamics for perception and action with shared informational dynamics for self and other, while also showing how the action/perception, self/other and actual/possible distinctions can be overlaid on these shared informational dynamics. It avoids the common conception of perception and action as separate and peripheral to central cognition. Rather, it contributes to the situated cognition movement by showing how mechanisms for perceiving action can be built on those for active perception. The shared circuits model is developed heuristically, in five layers that can be combined in various ways to frame specific ontogenetic or phylogenetic hypotheses. The starting point is dynamic online motor control, whereby an organism is closely attuned to its embedding environment through sensorimotor feedback. Onto this are layered functions of prediction and simulation of feedback, mirroring, simulation of mirroring, monitored inhibition of motor output, and monitored simulation of input. Finally, monitored simulation of input specifying possible actions plus inhibited mirroring of such possible actions can generate information about the possible as opposed to actual instrumental actions of others, and the possible causes and effects of such possible actions, enabling strategic social deliberation. Multiple instances of such shared circuits structures could be linked into a network permitting decomposition and recombination of elements, enabling flexible control, imitative learning, understanding of other agents, and
Approximate Newton Methods for Policy Search in Markov Decision Processes

Approximate Newton methods are standard optimization tools which aim to maintain the benefits of Newton's method, such as a fast rate of convergence, while alleviating its drawbacks, such as computationally expensive calculation or estimation of the inverse Hessian. In this work we investigate approximate Newton methods for policy optimization in Markov decision processes (MDPs). We first analyse the structure of the Hessian of the total expected reward, which is a standard objective function for MDPs. We show that, like the gradient, the Hessian exhibits useful structure in the context of MDPs and we use this analysis to motivate two Gauss-Newton methods for MDPs. Like the Gauss-Newton method for non-linear least squares, these methods drop certain terms in the Hessian. The approximate Hessians possess desirable properties, such as negative definiteness, and we demonstrate several important performance guarantees including guaranteed ascent directions, invariance to afine transformation of the parameter space and convergence guarantees. We finally provide a unifying perspective of key policy search algorithms, demonstrating that our second Gauss-Newton algorithm is closely related to both the EM-algorithm and natural gradient ascent applied to MDPs, but performs significantly better in practice on a range of challenging domains.
Equicontinuity of power maps in locally pseudo-convex algebras

We show that, in any unitary (commutative or not) Baire locally pseudoconvex algebra with a continuous product, the power maps are equicontinuous at zero if all entire functions operate. We obtain the same conclusion if every element is bounded. An immediate consequence is a result of A. Arosio on commutative and complete metrizable locally convex algebras.
The Role of Adiponectin in Secondary Inflammatory Reaction in Cerebral Ischemia

Objective In this study, we investigate the role of adiponectin in the interaction between leukocytes and endothelium in the secondary inflammatory reaction of cerebral ischemia. Methods Adiponectin knock-out mice group (APN-KO) (n = 8) and wild-type mice group (WT) (n = 8) were prepared. Each group was sub-divided into 2 groups by reperfusion time. One-hour middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion were induced using the intraluminal filament technique. At 6 and 12 hours after the occlusion, the mice were placed on a stereotactic frame to perform craniotomy in the left parietal area. After craniotomy, a straight pial venule was selected as a target vessel. With the fluorescence intravital microscope, the number of rolling leukocytes and leukocytes that adhered to endothelium were counted and documented at 6 and 12 hours after the reperfusion. Results At 6 and 12 hours after the reperfusion, more rolling leukocyte and leukocyte adhesion were observed in the APN-KO mice than in the WT mice. The difference in leukocyte numbers between the APN-KO and WT mice was found to be statistically significant (p = 0.029) by Mann-Whitney U-test. Conclusion We found that adiponectin inhibits the interaction between the endothelium and leukocytes in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion. Therefore adiponectin might prevent the secondary insult caused by the inflammation reaction.
Gemini Vitamin D Analogues Inhibit Estrogen Receptor–Positive and Estrogen Receptor–Negative Mammary Tumorigenesis without Hypercalcemic Toxicity

Numerous preclinical, epidemiologic, and clinical studies have suggested the benefits of vitamin D and its analogues for the prevention and treatment of cancer. However, the hypercalcemic effects have limited the use of 1α,25(OH)2D3, the hormonally active form of vitamin D. To identify vitamin D analogues with better efficacy and low toxicity, we have tested >60 novel Gemini vitamin D analogues with a unique structure of two side chains for growth inhibition of breast cancer cells. Our initial studies found that some Gemini analogues are 5–15 times more active than 1α,25(OH)2D3 in growth inhibition assay. In vivo experiments were designed to study the inhibitory effect of selected Gemini vitamin D analogues against mammary carcinogenesis by using (a) an N-methyl-N-nitrosourea–induced estrogen receptor (ER)-positive mammary tumor model and (b) an MCF10DCIS.com xenograft model of ER-negative mammary tumors. Among vitamin D analogues we tested, Gemini 0072 [1α,25-dihydroxy-20S-21(3-trideuteromethyl-3-hydroxy-4,4,4-trideuterobutyl)-23-yne-26,27-hexafluoro-19-nor-cholecalciferol] and Gemini 0097 [1α,25-dihydroxy-20R-21(3-trideuteromethyl-3-hydroxy-4,4,4-trideuterobutyl)-23-yne-26,27-hexafluoro-19-nor-cholecalciferol] administration inhibited by 60% the NMU-induced mammary tumor burden compared with the NMU-treated control group, but these compounds were devoid of hypercalcemia toxicity. In an ER-negative xenograft model, Gemini 0097 significantly suppressed tumor growth without hypercalcemia toxicity. We found that the inhibitory effect of Gemini 0097 was associated with an increased level of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 and the insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 in both ER-positive and ER-negative mammary tumors. Our results suggest that Gemini vitamin D analogues may be potent agents for the prevention and treatment of both ER-positive and ER-negative breast cancer without hypercalcemia toxicity.
Integrated marketing communications

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to analyze the synergistic effects derived from an integrated marketing communication (IMC) strategy with a criterion of strategic consistency in the message between two different communication tools (advertising and sponsorship) compared to a non‐integrated strategy. Specifically, it focuses on the synergistic effects that IMC has on consumer information processing, attitude and recall of the communication campaign.Design/methodology/approach – The study uses the experimental methodology in order to compare two conditions (integrated campaign versus a non‐integrated campaign). Findings – The results of this study show that a strategic consistency‐based integration has more positive effects on information processing, attitude and recall of the communication campaign compared to the non‐integration strategy.Research limitations/implications – This paper offers empirical evidence that might be useful for advertisers about the increased effectiveness of a strategic consi.
Multivalued Dependencies With Null Values In Relational Data Bases

The role of null values in a relational data base is considered within the framework of multivalued dependencies. When a relation contains null values, a different treatment of data dependencies and different relational operations such as projection and join, are necessary. This paper develops a complete axiomatization for the revised multivalued dependencies. In particular, complementation, reflexivity, augmentation, and union are shown to be a complete set of inference rules. In contrast with the conventional multivalued dependencies, the transitivity rule cannot be used. These results provide a framework for the use of the revised multivalued dependencies in choosing relations and their attributes for a feasible data-base design.
Gamification - A Novel Phenomenon or a New Wrapping for Existing Concepts?

Adding game elements to products and services has become a popular app roach for enhancing users’ experiences. Accordingly, gamification is widely considered an important method for intrinsically motivating users toward a preferred behavior. But what exactly about gamification is actually novel? In a broad literature review, we compare and contrast gamification to similar concepts such as hedonic, persuasive and intrinsically motivating information systems. By decomposing and classifying game elements found in the literature, we distinguish between already existing elements an d ones that can be considered new. In order to drive this area of research forward, we develop an extended framework for gamification, identify gaps in the literature, and propose future avenues f or research.
Allelic D variants of transferrin in evaluation of alcohol abuse: differential diagnosis by isoelectric focusing-immunoblotting-laser densitometry.

In the diagnosis of alcohol abuse transferrin (Tf) allelic D variants generate false-positive test results for carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT) as assessed by their electrophoretic migration patterns. The predominant Tf C1 allele encodes a protein for which the most prevalent isoform has a pI of 5.4, i.e., four sialic acids and two bound ion molecules. Carriers of allele D encode Tfs with different amino acid sequences, for which the pI is > 5.7, despite their identical iron and carbohydrate composition. We used isoelectric focusing, immunoblotting, and laser densitometry (IEF-IB-LD) to distinguish Tf D variants from CDT. Alcohol abusers carrying the D chi allele tested CDT+; D chi nondrinkers were CDT-. Although normal controls (< 15 g of alcohol per day for 7-10 consecutive days) carrying variants D1, D2, or D chi exhibited abnormal IEF banding patterns, they did not generate false-positive results for CDT. D3 variants expressed isoforms that migrate at the same pI as CDT bands. Thus, IEF-IB-LD yields a highly resolved banding pattern to distinguish most Tf D variants from CDT.
Requests network model for deadlock detection and avoidance in automated manufacturing systems

A modern competitive environment requires rapid and effective responses to varying production demands with shorter life cycles. A feasible solution to cope with such unpredictable situations is to introduce an automated manufacturing system characterized by high flexibility, autonomy and cooperation. Much research has been done on negotiation-based scheduling and control under the distributed control architecture due to its operational flexibility and scalability. Despite many advantages, the probability of the system stalling at a deadlock state is high. Specifically, it is difficult to detect impending part flow deadlocks within the system. A system request network model is defined here to analyse various deadlock situations. Request cycles are then identified by a virtual part flow control mechanism. No request cycle in the system request network represents ‘no system deadlock’. For any request cycle, a deadlock analysis is performed. If any request cycle exists that represents either a part flow deadlock or an impending part flow deadlock, then the system will be deadlocked. The proposed model can analyse all types of impending part flow deadlocks. Furthermore, it is more efficient through the reduction of search space, is applicable to various configurations and is less restrictive in dynamic shop floor control.
Transductive Classification via Local Learning Regularization

The idea of local learning, classifying a particular point based on its neighbors, has been successfully applied to supervised learning problems. In this paper, we adapt it for Transductive Classification (TC) problems. Specifically, we formulate a Local Learning Regularizer (LL-Reg) which leads to a solution with the property that the label of each data point can be well predicted based on its neighbors and their labels. For model selection, an efficient way to compute the leave-one-out classification error is provided for the proposed and related algorithms. Experimental results using several benchmark datasets illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Same-sex marriage : the moral and legal debate

The issue of same-sex marriage has attracted the attention of the nation and has become one of the most heated social controversies. This completely revised and updated second edition of "Same-Sex Marriage" presents a balanced selection of the latest, the most diverse, and the most clearly argued positions advocated by academics, politicians, journalists, attorneys, judges, and activists.
Radiofrequency Ablation versus Liver Resection for Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastasis: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background:Controversial results about the therapeutic value of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and liver resection (LR) in the treatment of colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRCLM) have been reported. Thus, we performed the present meta-analysis to summarize the related clinical evidences. Methods:A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed (Medline), EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, for all years up to April 2016. Pooled analyses of the overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and morbidity rates were performed. Results:A total of 14 studies were finally enrolled in the meta-analysis. Patients treated by LR gained a longer OS and PFS than those of patients treated by RFA. Patients in the RFA group had lower morbidity rates than those of patients in the LR group. Publication bias analysis revealed that there was no significant publication bias in the meta-analysis. Conclusions:Patients with CRCLM gained much more survival benefits from LR than that from RFA. RFA rendered lower rates of morbidities. More well-designed randomized controlled trails comparing the therapeutic value of LR and RFA are warranted.
MET receptor is a potential therapeutic target in high grade cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of death among women suffering from tumors. Current treatment options are insufficient. Here, we investigated the MET receptor as a potential molecular target in advanced cervical cancer. Downregulation of MET receptor expression via RNA interference in different cervical carcinoma cell lines dramatically decreased tumor growth and forced tumor differentiation in vivo. MET receptor silencing also led to a dramatic decrease in cell size and a decrease in proliferation rate under normal and stress conditions. MET receptor downregulation also resulted in decreased cyclin D1 and c-myc levels but did not increase apoptosis. Subsequent experiments showed that downregulation of the MET receptor decreased the expression of a key regulator of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, SLUG. and increased the expression of E-cadherin, a hallmark of the epithelial phenotype. Moreover, MET downregulation impairs expression and signaling of CXCR4 receptor, responsible for invasive phenotype. Taken together, our results strongly suggest that the MET receptor influences the oncogenic properties of cervical carcinoma cells in vitro and in vivo. These findings highlight a unique role of the MET receptor in cervical carcinoma cells and indicate the MET receptor as a potential therapeutic target for advanced cervical carcinoma.
Law of Marine Insurance

Contract of Indemnity Insurable Interest Subject-matter insured Time and voyage policies Valued and invalued policies Utmost good faith, disclosure and representations warranties The cause of loss Marine Risks Excluded losses Burden and standard of proof The Inchmaree clause 3/4ths Collision liability War and strikes risks Total loss Particular average loss Salvage, general average and sue and labour Appendices
Are district presidents more conservative than board governors

It is widely believed that the Federal Open Market Committee policy votes of Federal Reserve Bank presidents are more "conservative" than those of their Board governor counterparts. In both academia and Congress, the suspicion runs deep that the political appointment procedure exercised over Federal Reserve Board governors-nomination by the President and confirmation by the Senate-results in monetary policy that is more concerned with output and less concerned with inflation than the policy produced by the more politically independent District Bank presidents. ; This article examines the data to determine whether it supports this conventional wisdom. The statistical techniques used in this paper permit a test of the hypothesis necessary to support their conclusions. The evidence rejects the conclusion that significant differences exist.
Validation and Application of the French Version of the Aggressive Provocation Questionnaire: Gender and Age Differences in Aggression

The Aggressive Provocation Questionnaire (APQ) (O’Connor, Archer, & Wu, 2001) was developed based on Frijda’s modular theory of emotions (1988), in order to provide researchers with an effective measure of aggressive tendencies in men. The aim of the current paper is to 1) describe the development and validation of the French version of the APQ-12; and 2) for the first time, examine its psychometric properties in a female sample. Two samples of men and women (Study 1: N = 132, male = 54, female = 78; ages 17 - 24 years; Study 2: N = 302, male = 143, female = 159; ages 19 - 59 years) completed the APQ-12 in a French population. The first study concerned the internal consistency/convergent validity of the French version of the APQ, and also examined temporal stability of the measures. The second study investigated the effects of age and gender on aggressive tendencies. The psychometric properties from first study were then compared to those reported by O’Connor et al. (2001). The psychometric properties of the two scales were similar, and the scores on the APQ were also positively correlated with those on the AQ and the Trait-Anger Scales. The results also provided evidence for temporal stability of the French version of the APQ. However, the results from second study contradicted popular views about the effects of age and gender on aggressive tendencies. Analysis of the interaction of gender with age category indicated exceptionally high aggressive responses by young women (19 - 25 years old) and middle-aged men (26 - 44 years old).