Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The effect of repeated attempts and test-retest reliability in children’s singing accuracy

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of repeated attempts at singing accuracy tasks. Test-retest reliability of singing accuracy was examined in a second administration of the test. A secondary purpose was to analyze individual variability in children’s singing accuracy. Test stimuli were designed using five attempts each at a single pitch, interval, and four-note pattern, and song singing. Children aged 6–11 were given the one-on-one singing accuracy test, and an identical form of the test was administered again within 1–6 weeks. Pitch matching items were scored by measuring the deviation in Hertz from the stimuli. The song singing item was scored by singing teachers using an 8-point scale with acceptable inter-rater reliability (r = .86). Participants’ individual best attempt out of five was equally distributed, with overall performance increasing across subsequent attempts measured in signed cent deviation. A repeated-measures ANOVA with the task type (single, interval, and pattern) and attempt (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5) as the within-subjects variables indicated no main effect for task type (p = .129), but a significant main effect for attempt (p < .001, η p 2 = .087). Test-retest reliability was considered high (r = .69).
Developing Pre-Service Teachers' Technology Integration Expertise Through the Tpack-Developing Instructional Model

This study describes the TPACK-Developing Instructional Model which prescribes an instructional process for developing pre-service teachers' Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) during the instruction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools. This model proposes three phases for developing teachers' TPACK through ICT instruction. The phases are: fostering teachers' acceptance and technical proficiency; pedagogical modeling; and pedagogical application. An ICT instructional intervention designed with this model as its framework and its effects on the TPACK development of 74 pre-service teachers were examined. Qualitative analyses of their course reflection comments found that they predominantly developed Technological Knowledge and Technological Pedagogical Knowledge. More emphasis on subject-focused pedagogical modeling, product critique, and peer sharing may better develop their Technological Content Knowledge and TPACK. Future developments of the TPACK-Developing Instructional model are discussed.
A study of catalogued nearby galaxy clusters in the SDSS-DR4 I. Cluster global properties

Context. Large surveys such as the Sloan Digital Sky Survey have made large amounts of spectroscopic and photometric data of galaxies available, thereby providing important information for studying galaxy evolution in dense environments. Aims. We have selected a sample of 88 nearby (z 800 km s −1 ). However, the local environment could play a key role in the galaxy evolution for low-mass clusters.
Recognition of three epitopic regions on invasion plasmid antigen C by immune sera of rhesus monkeys infected with Shigella flexneri 2a

The invasive ability of Shigella spp. is correlated with the expression of several plasmid-encoded proteins, including invasion plasmid antigen C (IpaC). By characterizing the antigenic structure of IpaC with monoclonal antibodies and convalescent-phase sera, it may be possible to determine the physical location of specific epitopes as well as the involvement of epitopes in a protective immune response or the host's susceptibility to disease. By using overlapping octameric synthetic peptides, which together represent the entire IpaC protein, the precise linear sequence of four surface-exposed epitopes was defined for four IpaC monoclonal antibodies. Furthermore, 17 unique peptide epitopes of IpaC were mapped by using 9-day-postinfection serum samples from 13 rhesus monkeys challenged with Shigella flexneri 2a. Each individual recognized a somewhat different array of IpaC peptide epitopes after infection with shigellae. However, the epitopes were clustered within three regions of the protein: region I (between amino acid residues 1 and 61), region II (between amino acid residues 177 and 258), and region III (between amino acid residues 298 and 307). Region II was recognized by 92% of S. flexneri-infected individuals and was considered to be a highly immunogenic region. Animals asymptomatic for shigellosis after challenge with S. flexneri recognized peptide epitopes within all three epitopic regions of IpaC, whereas symptomatic animals recognized peptides in only one or two of the epitopic regions. Antibody from monkeys challenged with S. sonnei recognized IpaC peptide epitopes which fell within and outside the three S. flexneri epitopic regions. While numerous potential epitopes exist on the IpaC protein, the identification of three regions in which epitopes are clustered suggests that these regions are significant with respect to the immune response and to subsequent pathogenesis postinfection.
B‐Cell Differentiation in the Bone Marrow and the Periphery

In general terms B-cell development occurs in two stages, one leading to the production of a cell capable of responding to antigen and the other occurring after such a cell is exposed to antigen. The first of these stages occurs primarily in the bone marrow in adult animals while the second phase is generally located in the periphery. The distinction between these two stages, it must be admitted, has become a little hazy given the evidence that some form of antigenic selection is necessary for a cell to become a long-lived peripheral B cell (MacLennan & Gray 1986, Gu et al. 1991a). Nevertheless, such a scheme does provide a useful framework within which to view the events of B-cell differentiation. In this review, I will discuss recent work from our laboratory concerning the differentiation of B cells both in the bone marrow and the periphery. In the BM this relates to the acquisition of phenotypic markers and the loss of certain genotypes which occur during B-cell maturation. For peripheral B cells this relates to the ability of mature Bl cells (formerly Ly-IB) to respond to exogenous differentiative stimuli. The intention here is to firstly determine if there is a functional difference between Bl and B2 cells and, if so, to assess what possible causes and consequences this might have.
Comparison of Low-Dose Rosuvastatin with Atorvastatin in Lipid-Lowering Efficacy and Safety in a High-Risk Pakistani Cohort: An Open-Label Randomized Trial

Background. Treatment of hyperlipidemia is helpful in both primary and secondary prevention of coronary heart disease and stroke. Aim. To compare lipid-lowering efficacy of rosuvastatin with atorvastatin. Methodology. This open-label randomized controlled trial was carried out at 1 Mountain Medical Battalion from September 2012 to August 2013 on patients with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, myocardial infarction, or stroke, meriting treatment with a statin. Those with secondary causes of dyslipidemia were excluded. Blood samples for estimation of serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-C, and LDL-C were collected after a 12-hour fast. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either atorvastatin 10 mg HS or rosuvastatin 5 mg HS daily. Lipid levels were rechecked after six weeks. Results. Atorvastatin was used in 63 patients and rosuvastatin in 66. There was a greater absolute and percent reduction in serum LDL-C levels with rosuvastatin as compared to atorvastatin (0.96 versus 0.54 mg/dL; P = 0.011 and 24.34 versus 13.66%; P = 0.045), whereas reduction in all other fractions was equal. Myalgias were seen in 5 (7.94%) patients treated with atorvastatin and 8 (12.12%) patients treated with rosuvastatin (P: 0.432). Conclusion. Rosuvastatin produces a greater reduction in serum LDL-C levels and should therefore be preferred over atorvastatin.
Longitudinal relations of television, electronic games, and digital versatile discs with changes in diet in adolescents.

BACKGROUND Youth spend more time with screens than any activity except sleeping. Screen time is a risk factor for obesity, possibly because of the influence of food and beverage advertising on diet. OBJECTIVE We sought to assess longitudinal relations of screen time [ie, television, electronic games, digital versatile discs (DVDs)/videos, and total screen time] with the 2-y changes in consumption of foods of low nutritional quality (FLNQ) that are commonly advertised on screens [ie, sugar-sweetened beverages, fast food, sweets, salty snacks, and the sum of these foods (total FLNQ)] and fruit and vegetables. DESIGN With the use of 2004, 2006, and 2008 waves of the Growing Up Today Study II, which consisted of a cohort of 6002 female and 4917 male adolescents aged 9-16 y in 2004, we assessed screen time (change and baseline) in relation to the 2-y dietary changes. Regression models included 4604 girls and 3668 boys with complete screen time and diet data on ≥2 consecutive questionnaires. RESULTS Each hour-per-day increase in television, electronic games, and DVDs/videos was associated with increased intake of total FLNQ (range: 0.10-0.28 servings/d; P < 0.05). Each hour-per-day increase in total screen time predicted increased intakes of sugar-sweetened beverages, fast food, sweets, and salty snacks (range: 0.02-0.06 servings/d; P < 0.001) and decreased intakes of fruit and vegetables (range: -0.05 to -0.02 servings/d; P < 0.05). Greater screen time at baseline (except electronic games in boys) was associated with subsequent increased intake of total FLNQ, and greater screen time at baseline (except DVDs/videos) was associated with decreased intake of fruit and vegetables (P < 0.05). Across sex and food groups and in sensitivity analyses, television was most consistently associated with dietary changes. CONCLUSIONS Increases in screen time were associated with increased consumption of foods and beverages of low nutritional quality and decreased consumption of fruit and vegetables. Our results caution against excessive use of screen media, especially television, in youth.
Organising for Ecological Repair

In this article, we explore organising narratives that underpin the generation of effective ecological solutions. We examine the processes of meaning construction in relation to the development of sustainable land management practices in the Landcare organisation in Australia. Meaning construction is situated in a variety of contexts that are themselves strongly influenced by a meta-narrative, which Taylor has labelled the “modern social imaginary”: A shared system of meanings that captures the imaginations of individuals and shapes their social groupings and society. The shift in meaning construction is reflected in the emergence of a narrative of “ecological repair” that involved a process of learning and knowledge development we have labelled protracted sense-making. Our research findings have led us to conclude that the development of successful ecological solutions require an active rewriting of the social imaginary.
Membrane-Anchored HIV-1 N-Heptad Repeat Peptides Are Highly Potent Cell Fusion Inhibitors via an Altered Mode of Action

Peptide inhibitors derived from HIV-gp41 envelope protein play a pivotal role in deciphering the molecular mechanism of HIV-cell fusion. According to accepted models, N-heptad repeat (NHR) peptides can bind two targets in an intermediate fusion conformation, thereby inhibiting progression of the fusion process. In both cases the orientation towards the endogenous intermediate conformation should be important. To test this, we anchored NHR to the cell membrane by conjugating fatty acids with increasing lengths to the N- or C-terminus of N36, as well as to two known N36 mutants; one that cannot bind C-heptad repeat (CHR) but can bind NHR (N36 MUTe,g), and the second cannot bind to either NHR or CHR (N36 MUTa,d). Importantly, the IC50 increased up to 100-fold in a lipopeptide-dependent manner. However, no preferred directionality was observed for the wild type derived lipopeptides, suggesting a planar orientation of the peptides as well as the endogenous NHR region on the cell membrane. Furthermore, based on: (i) specialized analysis of the inhibition curves, (ii) the finding that N36 conjugates reside more on the target cells that occupy the receptors, and (iii) the finding that N36 MUTe,g acts as a monomer both in its soluble form and when anchored to the cell membrane, we suggest that anchoring N36 to the cell changes the inhibitory mode from a trimer which can target both the endogenous NHR and CHR regions, to mainly monomeric lipopetides that target primarily the internal NHR. Besides shedding light on the mode of action of HIV-cell fusion, the similarity between functional regions in the envelopes of other viruses suggests a new approach for developing potent HIV-1 inhibitors.
Glioblastoma Multiforme and Breast Cancer: Report on 11 Cases and Clinico-Pathological Remarks

The association between breast cancer and glioblastoma multiforme has not been amply analyzed in the literature. We describe 11 female patients with a diagnosis of glioblastoma multiforme who were treated when younger for breast cancer. We believe that this association is not due to chance but rather to genetic changes in hormone status and in particular to sex hormones. Another important point of view is represented by the chemotherapy treatment of breast cancer, which could have a carcinogenic effect and explain the growth of glioblastoma. This consideration, in our opinion, is important, because more effort should be made to understand the pathogenesis of glioblastoma multiforme and to improve the therapeutic approaches.
Intrapericardial Delivery of Cardiosphere-Derived Cells: An Immunological Study in a Clinically Relevant Large Animal Model

Introduction The intrapericardial delivery has been defined as an efficient method for pharmacological agent delivery. Here we hypothesize that intrapericardial administration of cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs) may have an immunomodulatory effect providing an optimal microenvironment for promoting cardiac repair. To our knowledge, this is the first report studying the effects of CDCs for myocardial repair using the intrapericardial delivery route. Material and Methods CDCs lines were isolated, expanded and characterized by flow cytometry and PCR. Their differentiation ability was determined using specific culture media and differential staining. 300,000 CDCs/kg were injected into the pericardial space of a swine myocardial infarcted model. Magnetic resonance imaging, biochemical analysis of pericardial fluid and plasma, cytokine measurements and flow cytometry analysis were performed. Results Our results showed that, phenotype and differentiation behavior of porcine CDCs were equivalent to previously described CDCs. Moreover, the intrapericardial administration of CDCs fulfilled the safety aspects as non-adverse effects were reported. Finally, the phenotypes of resident lymphocytes and TH1 cytokines in the pericardial fluid were significantly altered after CDCs administration. Conclusions The pericardial fluid could be considered as a safe and optimal vehicle for CDCs administration. The observed changes in the studied immunological parameters could exert a modulation in the inflammatory environment of infarcted hearts, indirectly benefiting the endogenous cardiac repair.
A Fully Integrated 16-Element Phased-Array Transmitter in SiGe BiCMOS for 60-GHz Communications

A phased-array transmitter (TX) for multi-Gb/s non-line-of-sight links in the four frequency channels of the IEEE 802.15. 3c standard (58.32 to 64.8 GHz) is fully integrated in a 0.12-μm SiGe BiCMOS process. It consists of an up-conversion core followed by a 1:16 power distribution tree, 16 phase-shifting front-ends, and a digital control unit. The TX core is a two-step sliding-IF up-conversion chain with frequency synthesizer that features 40 dB of gain programmability, I/Q balance and LO leakage correction, and a modulator for 802.15. 3c common-mode signaling. The tradeoffs involved in the implementation of a 1:16 power distribution network are analyzed and a hybrid passive/active distribution tree architecture is introduced. Each of the 16 front-ends consists of a balanced passive phase shifter and a variable-gain, 3-stage PA that features oP1dB programmability through the bias control of the its final stage. All of the chip features are digitally controllable and individual memory arrays are integrated at each front-end to enable fast beam steering through a high-speed parallel interface. The IC occupies 44 mm and is fully characterized on wafer. The TX delivers 9 to 13.5 dBm oPidB per element at 60.48 GHz with a total power consumption of 3.8 to 6.2 W. Each element attains a phase-shift range >360° with an amplitude variation <;±1 dB across phase settings and adjacent elements. Measurement results from a packaged IC in an antenna chamber are also presented including the demonstration of spatial power combining up to +40 dBm EIRP and 16-element radiation patterns.
Newer oral anticoagulants: a review of laboratory monitoring options and reversal agents in the hemorrhagic patient.

PURPOSE Available evidence on laboratory monitoring of coagulation assays and reversal strategies for the management of hemorrhagic events associated with the newer anticoagulants is reviewed. SUMMARY While there are no published studies with dabigatran and prothrombinase-induced clotting time (PiCT) and no chromogenic assays available to measure the anticoagulant effects, thrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT ) may be used to detect the presence of dabigatran. Although ecarin clotting time is sensitive to elevated concentrations of dabigatran, only a small fraction of institutions have access to this assay. Rivaroxaban and apixaban prolong prothrombin time, dilute prothrombin time, aPTT, Heptest results, and PiCT to varying degrees, having the most- pronounced effects at higher concentrations. In contrast, the chromogenic antifactor Xa assay proved to be sensitive to lower amounts of rivaroxaban and apixaban with less variability. Despite the expectations with these newer anticoagulants, the associated risk of bleeding is significant, and there are insufficient data depicting treatment options in emergency situations. Until four-factor prothrombin complex concentrates (PCCs) become available in the United States, the obtainable options are activated PCC, three-factor PCCs, and recombinant factor VIIa. CONCLUSION Although there is currently no gold standard of measurement for any of the newer anticoagulants, the published literature enables practitioners to evaluate the efficacy and sensitivity of a majority of these assays. Prohemostatic agents can be used in instances of severe, life-threatening hemorrhagic complications.
Psychotropic drug prescribing for prisoners

Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 46(11) Griffiths EV, Willis J and Spark MJ (2012) A systematic review of psychotropic drug prescribing for prisoners. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry 46: 407–421. Morgan RD, Steffan J, Shaw LB, et al. (2007) Needs for and barriers to correctional mental health services: inmate perceptions. Psychiatric Services 58: 1181–1186. Simpson AI, Brinded PM, Fairley N, et al. (2003) Does ethnicity affect need for mental health service among New Zealand prisoners? Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry 37: 728–734.
Cognitive appraisal of perceived threat of diabetes and adherence to self -management behaviors

ID: 565 Cognitive Appraisal of Perceived Threat of Diabetes and Adherence to Self-Management Behaviors Author Information: Authors List: Presenting Author: Roger Carpenter Presenting Author: Roger Carpenter Address: PO Box 9620 Morgantown, WV 26506 USA Ph: 304-293-1401 Fax: Email: rcarpenter@hsc.wvu. edu Institution: Abstract InformationInformation Presentation Preference: SNRS Student Poster Presentation Abstract Categories: Interest Group: Health Promotion/ Self-care Thematic Areas: Chronic illness Introduction: Perceived threat is a significant factor influencing treatment adherence. Few studies have measured the cognitive appraisal of perceived threat of diabetes. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship of cognitive appraisal of perceived threat and adherence to self-management behaviors in uninsured persons with type 2 diabetes. The aims of this study were to: 1) Describe the cognitive appraisal of perceived threat of diabetes. 2) Describe self-management behaviors in persons with diabetes. 3) Examine the relationships between cognitive appraisal and self-management behaviors. Method(s): This exploratory, descriptive study used a convenience sample (n=80) of adults with type 2 diabetes being treated at a free clinic in West Virginia. Study variables and measures included cognitive appraisal (Cognitive Appraisal of Health Scale) and self-management behaviors (Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities). Descriptive statistics and correlations were used to describe the sample and to examine the relationships between cognitive appraisal and self-management behaviors. Results: Persons with diabetes followed recommendations for taking prescribed oral medications 6.6 days/week, for general diet 4.1 days/week, for specific diet 3.7 days/week, and for exercise 2.9 days/week. Persons perceived diabetes as more challenging (m=22.8), than as threatening (m=14.3) or causing harm/loss (m=19.6). Significant relationships were found between cognitive appraisal and self-management behaviors. These appraisals were associated with increased adherence to diet. Discussion: Findings suggest that practitioners consider treating persons with diabetes with medications sooner, while focusing on teaching lifestyle interventions targeting diet and exercise, and talking with patients about what the challenge of diabetes means in their lives. More challenge appraisal may indicate a willingness to confront the problems associated with adherence to diabetes self-management. Research is needed exploring the issues that persons with diabetes have with adherence to self-management behaviors, especially diet and exercise recommendations. Research Completed : Yes Abstract History: NA Financial Disclosure: Have a financial arrangement or affiliation with commercial companies whose products may be mentioned in this material?
Effects of vitamin D on expression of Toll-like receptors of monocytes from patients with Behcet's disease.

OBJECTIVES Recent studies have shown the immunomodulatory effect of vitamin D(3) through down-regulation of Toll-like receptor (TLR) expression in human monocytes. To understand the implication of innate immunity with the role of vitamin D affecting TLR expression in Behçet's disease (BD), we focused on the association between the TLR expression and the serum vitamin D concentration in BD. METHODS The expression of TLR2, TLR4 and CD16 on monocytes was detected by flow cytometric analysis and RT-PCR. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels were measured in the patients with BD, psoriasis and healthy controls, and then the expression of TLRs was correlated with the value of serum 25(OH)D levels. To assess the influence of vitamin D(3) on expression and function of TLRs in vitro, human monocytes were treated with increasing concentrations of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3). RESULTS We found that the monocytes of active BD patients showed higher expressions of TLR2 and TLR4 than those of controls, and serum 25(OH)D levels tended to be lower in active BD. Furthermore, 25(OH)D levels were inversely correlated with the expressions of TLR2, TLR4 and clinical indicators. In vitro analysis showed that vitamin D(3) was found to dose-dependently suppress the protein and mRNA expressions of TLR2 and TLR4. TNF-alpha synthesis was also decreased upon TLR ligand stimulation in vitamin D(3)-treated monocytes. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the inflammation triggered through TLR2 and TLR4 is important in the pathogenesis of BD. And it seems possible that vitamin D may be used as a therapeutic option by modulating TLR2 and TLR4 expression of monocytes in BD.