Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Quantification of Aortic Valve Calcifications Detected During Lung Cancer-Screening CT Helps Stratify Subjects Necessitating Echocardiography for Aortic Stenosis Diagnosis

AbstractNo study has been published on aortic valve calcification (AVC) extent at lung cancer screening low-dose CT (LDCT) and its relationship with aortic stenosis (AS). The purpose of this study was to estimate the cutoff value of AVC on LDCT for detecting AS in asymptomatic Asian subjects. Six thousand three hundred thirty-eight subjects (mean age, 55.9 years ± 8.6) self-referred to health-promotion center underwent LDCT, coronary calcium scoring CT (CSCT), and echocardiography. AVC was quantified using Agatston methods on CT. AVC extent on LDCT was compared with that on CSCT, and AVC threshold for diagnosing AS was calculated. Clinical factors associated with AS and AVC were sought.AVC was observed in 403 subjects (64.9 years ± 8.7) on LDCT (6.4%), and AVC score measured from LDCT showed strong positive correlation with that from CSCT (r = 0.83, P < 0.0001). Of 403 subjects, 40 (10%) were identified to have AS on echocardiography. Cutoff value of AVC score for detecting AS was 138.37 with sensitivity of 90.0% and specificity 83.2%. On multivariate analysis, age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.10, 95% CI: 1.09–1.12) and hypertension (OR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.10–1.76) were associated with the presence of AVC, whereas AVC extent at LDCT (OR = 104.32, 95% CI: 16.16–673.70) was the only significant clinical factor associated with AS; AVC extent on LDCT (OR = 104.32, 95% CI: 16.16–673.70) was the significant clinical factor associated with AS.The AVC extent on LDCT is significantly related to the presence of AS, and we recommend echocardiography for screening AS based on quantified AVC values on LDCT.
Factors influencing e-marketplace adoption in agricultural micro-enterprises

Electronic marketplaces (e-marketplaces) present a business-tobusiness (B2B) trading environment where firms can benefit from increased choice among trading partners, and other efficiencies gained through electronic exchange. B2B e-marketplaces have only recently emerged in New Zealand; however, there is already doubt whether predicted benefits are being realised. The study draws on Tornatzky and Fleischer's (1990) adoption model to explore motivations and barriers to e-marketplace adoption that agricultural micro-enterprises experience. Key barriers include conflict with pre-existing relationships, risk perceptions, ease of use and infrastructure problems. Dominant motivations include the ability to exclude agent middlemen, a reduction in transaction costs, and market reach.
Immune Privilege as an Intrinsic CNS Property: Astrocytes Protect the CNS against T-Cell-Mediated Neuroinflammation

Astrocytes have many functions in the central nervous system (CNS). They support differentiation and homeostasis of neurons and influence synaptic activity. They are responsible for formation of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and make up the glia limitans. Here, we review their contribution to neuroimmune interactions and in particular to those induced by the invasion of activated T cells. We discuss the mechanisms by which astrocytes regulate pro- and anti-inflammatory aspects of T-cell responses within the CNS. Depending on the microenvironment, they may become potent antigen-presenting cells for T cells and they may contribute to inflammatory processes. They are also able to abrogate or reprogram T-cell responses by inducing apoptosis or secreting inhibitory mediators. We consider apparently contradictory functions of astrocytes in health and disease, particularly in their interaction with lymphocytes, which may either aggravate or suppress neuroinflammation.
Relative Wages under Decentralized and Corporatist Bargaining Systems

In studying the relationship between wage inequality and centralization in collective bargaining, the authors distinguish central from local systems of wage determination by assuming that a central union takes the employment effects of negotiated wages into account, whereas unions disregard these effects in decentralized systems. Two different sources of wage differentials are studied separately: (1) heterogeneous workers with different skills and (2) heterogeneous firms with varying levels of economic rent per employee. With respect to skill levels, the impact of centralization is ambiguous, whereas interfirm wage differentials are likely to be lower in corporatist systems. Copyright 1995 by The editors of the Scandinavian Journal of Economics.
Effectiveness of 980-mm diode and 1064-nm extra-long-pulse neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet lasers in implant disinfection.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the potential of 980-nm gallium aluminum arsenide (GaAlAs) and 1064-nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers to reduce bacteria after irradiation of implant surfaces contaminated with Enterococcus faecalis and Porphyromonas gingivalis and on irradiated implant surface morphology. BACKGROUND Despite the frequency of implant success, some implant loss is related to peri-implantitis because of difficulty in eliminating the biofilm. METHODS Implants (3.75 x 13 mm) with machined surfaces, surfaces sand blasted with titanium oxide (TiO(2)), and sand-blasted and acid-etched surfaces were exposed to P. gingivalis and E. faecalis cultures and irradiated with 980-nm GaAlAs or 1064-nm Nd:YAG lasers. After laser treatments, the number of remaining colony-forming units and implant surface morphology were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). RESULTS The Nd:YAG laser was able to promote a total contamination reduction on all implants irradiated. The results with the GaAlAs laser showed 100% bacteria reduction on the implants irradiated with 3 W. Irradiation with 2.5 W and 3 W achieved 100% of bacteria reduction on P. gingivalis-contaminated implants. Decontamination was not complete for the sand-blasted TiO(2) (78.6%) and acid-etched surfaces (49.4%) contaminated with E. faecalis and irradiated with 2.5 W. SEM showed no implant surface changes. CONCLUSION The wavelengths used in this research provided bacteria reduction without damaging implant surfaces. New clinical research should be encouraged for the use of this technology in the treatment of peri-implantitis.
An Econometric Analysis of Industrial Training in Canada.

An exploratory econometric model to explain the duration of industrial training programs and assess training policy is developed in this paper. Based on the theoretical framework of Becker and Hashimoto, models for general and specific training are formulated and estimated by Tobit regression using data from the Human Resources Survey of the Economic Council of Canada. The major results are that most training is conducted in large firms, that turnover discourages specific training but encourages general training, that government assistance encourages specific (but not general) training, and that neither minimum wages nor unions have significant negative impacts on training.
Dabigatran Etexilate and Risk of Myocardial Infarction, Other Cardiovascular Events, Major Bleeding, and All‐Cause Mortality: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background Signals of an increased risk of myocardial infarction (MI) have been identified with dabigatran etexilate in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods and Resules We conducted searches of the published literature and a clinical trials registry maintained by the drug manufacturer. Criteria for inclusion in our meta‐analysis included all RCTs and the availability of outcome data for MI, other cardiovascular events, major bleeding, and all‐cause mortality. Among the 501 unique references identified, 14 RCTs fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Stratification analyses by comparators and doses of dabigatran etexilate were conducted. Peto odds ratio (ORPETO) values using the fixed‐effect model (FEM) for MI, other cardiovascular events, major bleeding, and all‐cause mortality were 1.34 (95% CI 1.08 to 1.65, P=0.007), 0.93 (95%CI 0.83 to 1.06, P=0.270), 0.88 (95% CI 0.79 to 0.99, P=0.029), and 0.89 (95% CI 0.80 to 1.00, P=0.041). When compared with warfarin, ORPETO values using FEM were 1.41 (95% CI 1.11 to 1.80, P=0.005), 0.94 (95%CI 0.83 to 1.06, P=0.293), 0.85 (95% CI 0.76 to 0.96, P=0.007), and 0.90 (95% CI 0.81 to 1.01, P=0.061), respectively. In RCTs using the 150‐mg BID dosage, the ORPETO values using FEM were 1.45 (95% CI 1.11 to 1.91, P=0.007), 0.95 (95% CI 0.82 to 1.09, P=0.423), 0.92 (95% CI 0.81 to 1.05, P=0.228), and 0.88 (95% CI 0.78 to 1.00, P=0.045), respectively. The results of the 110‐mg BID dosage were mainly driven by the RE‐LY trial. Conclusions This meta‐analysis provides evidence that dabigatran etexilate is associated with a significantly increased risk of MI. This increased risk should be considered taking into account the overall benefit in terms of major bleeding and all‐cause mortality.
Divergent selection in trailing- versus leading-edge populations of Biscutella laevigata.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS Knowledge on how climate-induced range shifts might affect natural selection is crucial to understand the evolution of species ranges. METHODS Using historical demographic perspectives gathered from regional-scale phylogeography on the alpine herb Biscutella laevigata, indirect inferences on gene flow and signature of selection based on AFLP genotyping were compared between local populations persisting at the trailing edge and expanding at the leading edge. KEY RESULTS Spatial autocorrelation revealed that gene flow was two times more restricted at the trailing edge and genome scans indicated divergent selection in this persisting population. In contrast, no pattern of selection emerged in the expanding population at the leading edge. CONCLUSIONS Historical effects may determine different architecture of genetic variation and selective patterns within local populations, what is arguably important to understand evolutionary processes acting across the species ranges.
Fructation In Vivo: Detrimental and Protective Effects of Fructose

There is compelling evidence that long-term intake of excessive fructose can have deleterious side effects in different experimental models. However, the role of fructose in vivo remains controversial, since acute temporary application of fructose is found to protect yeast as well as animal tissues against exogenous oxidative stress. This review suggests the involvement of reactive carbonyl and oxygen species in both the cytotoxic and defensive effects of fructose. Potential mechanisms of the generation of reactive species by fructose in the nonenzymatic reactions, their implication in the detrimental and protective effects of fructose are discussed.
Effects of continuous infusion of low-dose human atrial natriuretic peptide (hANP) on the lungs during cardiac surgery.

OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine the effects of a continuous infusion of low-dose hANP on the lungs during cardiac surgery in patients under cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). METHODS We analyzed 30 consecutive cases of cardiac surgery performed at our hospital from 2007-2008. The patients were divided into a group that received hANP (hANP group) or a group that received saline and no hANP (N-hANP group). We measured various parameters before and after surgery using a PiCCO monitor. RESULT There were no differences in the preoperative characteristics between the groups, although urine volume during the operation was significantly greater in the hANP group. After surgery, there were no significant differences between the groups in cardiac output index (CI), global enddiastolic volume index (GEDVI), intrathoracic blood volume index (ITBI), pulmonary blood volume index (PBI), extravascular lung water index (ELWI) and pulmonary vascular permeability index (PVPI), total protein, and creatine. In contrast, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and renin were significantly lower, and albumin was significantly higher in the hANP group. CONCLUSION We found that low-dose hANP during open cardiac surgery inhibited the secretion and plasma activity of IL-6 and renin. Although there were no differences in lung circulatory parameters such as the amount of fluid in the pulmonary blood vessels between the two groups, we believe that the strong diuretic effect of hANP reduced third-space fluid retention caused by CPB.
Social Sustainability in Developing Country Suppliers: An Exploratory Study in the Ready Made Garments Industry of Bangladesh

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate why developing country suppliers are adopting socially sustainable practices and how the implementation process is both impeded and enabled. Design/methodology/approach – A multi-case study approach is adopted based on four ready made garment (RMG) industry suppliers in Bangladesh and the Bangladeshi buying houses of two large UK retailers. The primary mode of data collection is exploratory face-to-face interviews with 14 senior representatives. Findings are later interpreted using the transaction cost economics (TCE) theory lens. Findings – One factor motivating implementation is labour retention – a skilled labour shortage means employees will migrate to other factories if suppliers do not improve certain social standards. Barriers to implementation include a misalignment between the requirements of western codes of conduct and the cultural and socio-economic context in Bangladesh. Enablers include a shift from auditing and monitoring to more open di.
Effect of maternal smoking on cord blood estriol, placental lactogen, chorionic gonadotropin, FSH, LH, and cortisol

Abstract Aim: To determine the effect of maternal cigarette smoking on cord blood concentrations of E3, hPL, β-hCG, FSH, LH, and cortisol. Methods: Hormone concentrations were measured in term neonates of 100 smoking and 100 non-smoking mothers. Results: The median E3, hPL, β-hCG, FSH, LH and cortisol cord blood concentrations in the non-smoking mothers' offspring were 212 ng/mL, 2.00 μg/mL, 57.5 mIU/mL, 0.10 mIU/mL, 0.20 mIU/mL, and 14.3 μg/mL, respectively; in the smoking they were 163, 1.39, 45.4, 0.10, 0.20, and 25.1, respectively (P=0.008, 0.004, 0.037, 0.498, 0.286, 0.004, respectively). There was a significant but poor negative correlation between number of cigarettes/day and E3 (r=−0.163, P=0.021), hPL (r=−0.191, P=0.007), and β-hCG (r=−0.143, P=0.044), whereas the correlation with cortisol was positive (r=0.259, P<0.0001). Multiple linear regression analyses showed that maternal smoking is a determinant of cord blood E3, hPL, β-hCG, FSH, and cortisol concentrations. Conclusions: Tobacco smoking is associated with a reduction in cord blood E3, hPL, and β-hCG concentrations, whereas it is associated with increased cortisol concentrations. The disturbed endocrine equilibrium of the fetus induced by tobacco smoking could have adverse consequences on the fetus and child since fetal brain is a target organ for hormonal actions.
Bringing order to your photos: event-driven classification of flickr images based on social knowledge

With the rapidly increasing popularity of Social Media sites, a lot of user generated content has been injected in the Web, thus resulting in a large amount of both multimedia items (music - Last.fm, MySpace.com, pictures - Flickr, Picasa, videos - YouTube) and textual data (tags and other text-based documents). As a consequence, especially for multimedia content it has become more and more difficult to find exactly the objects that best match the users' information needs. The methods we propose in this paper try to alleviate this problem and we focus on the domain of pictures, in particular on a subset of Flickr data. Many of the photos posted by users on Flickr have been shot during events and our methods aim to allow browsing and organization of picture collections in a natural way, by events. The algorithms we introduce in this paper exploit the social information produced by users in form of tags, titles and photo descriptions, for classifying pictures into different event categories. The extensive automated experiments demonstrate that our approach is very effective and opens new possibilities for multimedia retrieval, in particular image search. Moreover, the direct comparison with previous event detection algorithms confirm once more the quality of our methods.
Analysis and In-Situ Measurement of Thermal-Mechanical Strain in Active Silicon Power Semiconductors

Thermal-mechanical strain in silicon power devices is investigated using both finite element models and experimental techniques so that the reliability of power electronics modules can be improved by actively regulating strain to help guarantee predictable life while fully utilizing the capability of the device. Near-infrared photoelastic strain measurement and three- dimensional finite element modeling are applied to quantifying the critical strain magnitudes and locations during operation. Three-dimensional, transient, thermal-mechanical finite element models of IGBT devices are presented. Experimental results verifying the electrical-loss-driven thermal-mechanical strain in an electrically active discrete IGBT device are provided.
The growth of cannabis cultivation:explanations for import substitution in the UK

Cannabis cultivation in the United Kingdom has, seemingly, been on the increase. From the ‘traditional’ situation where most cannabis on the British market would have been imported we now have a situation where sources suggest that over 60% of the cannabis consumed in the UK is grown here. At the same time we have seen ongoing debate surrounding UK cannabis laws. In January 2004 cannabis was ‘downgraded’ from a Class B to a Class C drug. Recently these calls to reverse this liberalisation have been coming to a head. There are many reasons behind this call. Some of these relate to the proliferation of domestic cultivation. This chapter aims to describe the apparent shift from an import-led market to one drawing largely on domestic production and to explore the reasons behind this shift. It is argued that the change in policy has only been a minor influence in this respect.
Star Formation Thresholds in Galactic Disks

We report the first results of a detailed study of the star formation law in a sample of 32 nearby spiral galaxies with well-measured rotation curves, H I and H2 (as traced by CO) surface density profiles, and new Hα CCD photometry. In this paper we present an atlas of Hα images and radial surface brightness profiles and describe a surface density threshold in the star formation law. Prominent breaks in the Hα surface brightness profiles are identified in nearly all of the actively star-forming disks, confirming previous claims of star formation thresholds based on lower quality data. We measure the ratio of the gas density to the critical density for local gravitational stability at the threshold radii. The outer threshold radii observed in Sab-Sdm galaxies are in general agreement with those expected from the Toomre Q stability criterion, confirming earlier work, but with a significant variation that appears to be weakly correlated with galaxy type. Such a trend could plausibly reflect variations in the relative contribution of the stellar disk to the instability of the gas disk across this range of galaxy types. Among disks with subcritical gas surface densities, and outside the threshold radius in star-forming disks, the number of isolated H II regions increases as the gas surface density approaches the critical density. At the thresholds, the gas surface densities span a wide range, and the atomic/molecular gas fraction is highest in the disks having the lowest total gas surface density. The simple Toomre condition fails to account for the active star formation in the inner disks of low-mass spirals such as NGC 2403 and M33. An alternative stability criterion based on the shear in the disk provides a better description of these disks but is a less accurate indicator of the outer edges of star-forming disks than the Toomre criterion. These results strongly support the view that the formation of gravitationally bound interstellar clouds regulates the onset of widespread star formation, at least in the outer regions of galactic disks.
ADAPTABILITY

This study, conducted with a representative sample of employed and unemployed adults living in Switzerland ( N = 2’002), focuses on work conditions (in terms of professional insecurity and job demands), career adaptability and, professional and general well-being. Analyses of covariance highlighted that both unemployed and employed participants with low job insecurity reported higher scores on career adaptability and several dimensions (notably on control) than employed participants with high job insecurity. Moreover, structural equation modeling within employed participants showed that, independent of work conditions, adaptability resources were positively associated both with general and professional well-being. As expected professional outcomes were strongly related to job strain and professional insecurity, emphasizing the central role of the work environment. Finally, career adaptability partially mediated the relationship between job strain and professional insecurity, and the outcome well-being.
Neuro-Fuzzy Model and Regression Model a Comparison study of MRR in Electrical Discharge Machining of D2 Tool Steel

In the current research, neuro-fuzzy model and re- gression model was developed to predict Material Removal Rate in Electrical Discharge Machining process for AISI D2 tool steel with copper electrode. Extensive experiments were conducted with various levels of discharge current, pulse duration and duty cycle. The experimental data are split into two sets, one for training and the other for validation of the model. The training data were used to develop the above models and the test data, which was not used earlier to develop these models were used for validation the models. Subsequently, the models are compared. It was found that the predicted and experimental results were in good agreement and the coefficients of correlation were found to be 0.999 and 0.974 for neuro fuzzy and regression model respectively Keywords—Electrical discharge machining; Material Removal Rate; Neuro-fuzzy model; Regression model; Mountain clustering.