Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of hepatitis B and C in internally displaced persons of war against terrorism in Swat, Pakistan.

BACKGROUND Hepatitis B and C are the most common blood-borne liver infections worldwide. According to the recent estimates, 270-300 million people worldwide are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and more than 2 billion people have been infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Transmission of these viruses is carried out by exposure to infectious blood or body fluids containing blood. METHODS Five-hundred and ninety (290 males and 300 females, 5-65 years) internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Swat area of northern Pakistan were screened for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibodies using immune-chromatography kits. The subjects, positive for virus-related antibody, were further confirmed for viral RNA (for HCV) and DNA (for HBV) in the blood by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. The virus of PCR-confirmed HCV-individuals was further genotyped and the prevalence of HCV infection was determined with respect to age, sex, history of exposure to blood or surgical operation and different types of liver diseases. RESULTS The HCV infection was found to be the predominant liver infection in the population which was 91% of the positive cases, as against 9% of HBV. Among the HCV-positive subjects (68% females, 32% males) 56% were asymptomatic. No co-incidence of HBV and HCV was found in any subject. Genotype 3a was the dominant strain of HCV followed by 2a > 3b > 1b > 1a, 2b. CONCLUSION The viral hepatitis among the apparently healthy population of a relatively natural and pollution free environment refers to an alarming condition about liver infections, particularly of HCV, in Pakistan.
Trapped between tradition and transition--anthropological and epidemiological cross-sectional study of Bayash Roma in Croatia.

AIM To assess the key characteristics related to living conditions and health in the Bayash Roma population in Baranja and Medimurje regions of Croatia and identify possible demographic and socio-economic sources of variance in self-reported health and reproductive profile. METHODS The study comprised a total of 266 adult Bayash individuals from Baranja and 164 from Medimurje (aged 41.3+/-15.1 years). Data on ethno-historical and demographic background, self-identity, life and hygiene conditions, education, employment, health insurance, and health (dietary and smoking habits, reproductive characteristics, diagnosed and undiagnosed health problems, use of medications). were obtained through interviews. Bivariate and multivariate methods were used in statistical analyses. RESULTS The reported migratory pattern demonstrated that 88.8% of the examinees were born in the region of residence, which showed that the Bayash population was autochthonous and sedentary one. Financially, the Bayash primarily relayed on social welfare support allowance (84%) and child allowance (47%), while merely 2% were permanently and 23% occasionally employed. The proportion of the Bayash who had never attended school amounted to 33.3% (19.3% men and 40.6% women). The access to public water supply system was available to 52.5% of examinees, whereas only 1.7% had public sewage system, and 23.4% had private septic tanks. The most commonly reported health burden were frequent headaches (20.3%), stomach pain (16.3%), anxiety or insomnia (13.1%), hypertension (9.3%), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (8.6%). The logistic regression identified level of education (odds ratio [OR], 0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.63-0.94) and access to health insurance (OR, 4.32; 95% CI, 1.46-12.77) as socio-economic/life-style factors playing a significant role in the occurrence of COPD. CONCLUSION Our results indicate poor inclusion of the Bayash in the essential social service sectors such as health care, education, and employment, as well as substandard living conditions and unfavorable health-related behavior. Since education and health insurance were found to have significant effects on the observed reproductive status and self-reported health, they should be targeted in planning public health actions for socially marginalized and economically deprived groups.
Modelling the Bilateral Symmetry of Caries Incidence

Background/Aims: Past caries experience has been shown to be the best predictor of the development of caries in the future, and clinical observations suggest that caries develops symmetrically in similar teeth on each side of the mouth. This study investigates whether caries on a given surface can be used as a predictor of future caries on the corresponding surface on the other side of the mouth. Methods: The data come from a 3-year trial examining the caries-preventive efficacy of chlorhexidine varnish on adolescents. A logistic multilevel model was fitted with 3 levels; participant, tooth and surface. The outcome variable was the development of caries into enamel or dentine, after 3 years. Covariates were tooth position, the caries status of the contralateral surface at baseline, the caries status of the corresponding surface in the opposing jaw at baseline, the caries status of adjacent teeth and the total number of decayed, missing, filled surfaces at baseline. Results: The effect of caries at baseline on the contralateral surface was highly significant (odds ratio = 4.80, 95% CI = 4.38–5.38). The effect of caries at baseline on the corresponding surface in the opposing jaw was also significant, but smaller in magnitude (odds ratio = 1.66, 95% CI = 1.49–1.83). Conclusion: Multilevel modelling provides a clinically useful method of estimating the probability of a surface developing caries over a period of time, based on the caries status of the contralateral surface and the corresponding surface in the opposing jaw, while controlling for the natural clustering in tooth surface data.
Manifestations and management of lymphogranuloma venereum

Purpose of review This review was prompted by a sustained outbreak of lymphogranuloma venereum that has been observed among men who have sex with men (MSM) worldwide since 2004. Recent developments in the epidemiology, diagnosis and management of the infection are summarized. Recent findings Between the early 1980s and 2003, lymphogranuloma venereum was rarely seen in the developed world. In 2003, a cluster of cases was seen in the Netherlands occurring mostly in HIV-positive MSM with high levels of sexual risk. With the assistance of novel molecular diagnostic techniques, more than a thousand cases of Chlamydia trachomatis L2 serovar disease have now been reported in MSM worldwide. Almost all have presented with rectal infection, usually manifesting as severe proctitis, with ulcer adenopathy syndrome seldom seen. Oral doxycycline remains the recommended treatment and has proven effective in the recent outbreak. Conflicting data exist regarding the prevalence of asymptomatic infection, and our understanding of the exact modes of transmission remains incomplete. Summary Lymphogranuloma venereum appears to have reestablished endemicity among MSM populations in many industrialized nations. In the relative absence of recent publications from its traditional endemic regions it can be assumed that these populations remain afflicted by the infection as well.
Infectious complications of TNF-α inhibitor monotherapy versus combination therapy with immunomodulators in inflammatory bowel disease: analysis of the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System.

BACKGROUND & AIM Incremental increase in the risk of serious infections with combinations of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors and immunomodulators compared to monotherapy with these agents in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is unclear. Our aim was to analyze whether there is such an incremental increase in the odds of serious infections. METHODS The FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (2003 - June 2011) was queried for 'Primary Suspect' reports of various infections with TNF-α inhibitors, systemic corticosteroids and immunomodulators with usage indication of IBD. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for baseline odds of infections as well as serious infections (requiring hospitalization and/or death) with monotherapy and combination therapy (compared to 5-Aminosalicylates) as well as incremental increase in odds for dual or triple combination therapy (compared to monotherapy or dual combination therapy respectively) using Fisher's exact test with SPSS 20 (IBM Co. Armonk, NY, USA). RESULTS TNF-α inhibitor (OR 1.95; CI, 1.06-3.59) and immunomodulator (OR 9.99; CI, 1.28-78.16) monotherapy as well as in combination augmented baseline odds of serious infection for IBD patients. No incremental increase in the odds with combination therapy was seen when an immunomodulator was added to a TNF-α inhibitor (OR 0.37; CI, 0.05-2.80) and when both were used with a systemic corticosteroid (OR 0.91; CI, 0.50-1.66). Variations in these were seen for the individual infection subtypes. CONCLUSIONS TNF-α inhibitor and immunomodulator monotherapy increase the baseline odds of acquiring a serious infection. Combination therapy with these drugs does not further increase the odds of serious infections compared to monotherapy.
Mechanical Property and Microstructure of Ti-Ta-Ag Alloy for Biomedical Applications

Ti and some of its alloys (e.g. Ti–6Al–4V alloy) have become the metals of choice for the endosseous parts of presently available dental implants. In the present study, Ti-Ta-Ag alloys with a different Ag content were prepared using vacuum sintering (VS) and spark plasma sintering (SPS) process. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the Ti-Ta-Ag alloys were investigated. The results show that dense Ti-Ta-Ag alloys prepared using the SPS process exhibit high hardness and a suitable elastic modulus for implant materials for load-bearing applications. The effect of preparation methods on the microstructure of Ti-Ta-Ag alloys is discussed.
Long-Term Prognosis after Removal of Silicone Oil

Purpose To investigate surgical and functional results six or more months after silicone oil (SiO) removal in patients undergoing pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and tamponade for various reasons. Methods Retrospective chart review. Inclusion criteria were recurrent retinal detachment with PVR grade C (R-RD), primary PVR grade C longer than 9 hours, recurrent vitreous hemorrhage in PDR (PDR-RVH) with traction RD, giant retinal tears (GRT) with PVR grade C and total RD with vitreous hemorrhage and hypotony in penetrating traumas (PT). Indications for removal of SiO included attached retina and intra-ocular pressure (IOP) more than 10 mmHg after 60 days or IOP more than 30 mmHg despite medication. Results Of the 212 patients undergoing PPV and SiO tamponade between 1994–1997, 91 met the inclusion criteria, 8 had incomplete charts so 83 eyes were included in the study. The mean interval between PPV and SiO removal was 163.1 ± 111.0 days and follow-up was 351.5 ± 148.6 days. At the time of SiO removal, 30.6% of phakic eyes had cataract, 14.4% keratopathy and 8.4% IOP more than 30 mmHg. At the last visit after SiO removal, 43.5% had cataract, 12.0 keratopathy, 6.0% IOP > 30 mmHg and 3.6% IOP <5 mmHg. After SiO removal, 6.0% eyes developed R-RD. There was no significant difference in SiO duration for patients with and without R-RD. VA was more than 5/200 in 16.8% of eyes preoperatively, 79.5% at the time of SiO removal (p<0.05) and 78.3% at the last visit (n.s.) and better than 20/400 in respectively 2.4%, 51.8% (p<0.05) and 53% (n.s.). There was a tendency for VA to improve after SiO removal (p = 0.011). Conclusions SiO is an effective tamponade for complex RD, although its possible benefits must always be weighted carefully against the complications and the need for further intervention. The present series compares favorably with the current literature in terms of complication rates. The optimal timing of SiO removal and precise screening and decision-making guidelines before removal are still the main issues and need careful consideration.
Fabrication and characterization of large area mercuric iodide polycrystalline films

Mercuric iodide (HgI2) polycrystalline films are being developed as a new photoconductor layer for direct converter X-ray imaging detector. A physical vapor deposition (PVD) device for HgI2 deposition was developed specially. Depending on the device and low purity (99.5%) low-cost HgI2 source material, polycrystalline HgI2 films have been grown with dimensions Φ130 mm in diameter onto ITO-coated glass substrate. The grown techniques used can be easily extended to produce much larger films areas and the thickness of the grown layers, size of the grains and crystallinity can be regulated in a controlled way by adjusting the growth parameters. The basic physical characteristic, dark current and response characteristic to X-ray for the grown polycrystalline film were tested and the results show that the film has preferred crystalline orientation (00l), low dark current density less than 10 pA/mm2, high volume resistivity in the order of 1013 Ω•cm and high X-ray response sensitivity of about 16 μC/(cm2•R), and the results put HgI2 polycrystalline films in position as a leading candidate material for use in digital X-ray imaging system.
Chlorantraniliprole (DPX-E2Y45, Rynaxypyr®, Coragen®), A new diamide insecticide for control of codling moth (Cydia pomonella), Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) and European grapevine moth (Lobesia botrana).

Chlorantraniliprole (DPX-E2Y45, Rynaxypyr, Coragen) is a new compound by DuPont belonging to a new class of selective insecticides (anthranilic diamides) featuring a novel mode of action (group 28 in the IRAC classification). By activating the insect ryanodine receptors (RyRs) it stimulates the release and depletion of intracellular calcium stores from the sarcoplasmic reticulum of muscle cells, causing impaired muscle regulation, paralysis and ultimately death of sensitive species (Cordova et al. 2006). Extensively tested in the field since 2002, it is registered or next to market introduction in the majority of agricultural countries worldwide. Development in Slovenia is currently focused in foliar applications in apples, potatoes and grapes. In the EU trials, rates of 10-60 g a.s. /ha were highly effective on important pests such as: Cydia pomonella, Cydia molesta, Lobesia botrana, Eupoecilia ambiguella, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, Ostrinia nubilalis and Helicoverpa armigera. The product general features have been presented in previous, referenced papers. It has very low toxicity for mammals (both acute and chronic), high intrinsic activity on target pests, strong ovilarvicidal and larvicidal properties, long lasting crop protection and no cross-resistance to any existing insecticide. Coragen demonstrated excellent performance on codling moth and other chewing pests, stability of performance across the different conditions and minimal impact on pollinators, beneficial insects and predatory mites. Whereas the new mode of action makes chlorantraniliprole a valuable option for IRM (Insecticide Resistance Management) strategies, safety to key beneficial arthropods and honeybees confer a strong fit within IPM (Integrated Production Management) programs. The remarkably favourable toxicity profile of chlorantraniliprole, combined with the low use rates, provides large margins of safety for consumers and agricultural workers. After reviewing the product profile, results from laboratory, field and semi-field tests are provided.
Observations on student misconceptions—A case study of the Build – Heap Algorithm

Data structures and algorithms are core issues in computer programming. However, learning them is challenging for most students and many of them have various types of misconceptions on how algorithms work. In this study, we discuss the problem of identifying misconceptions on the principles of how algorithms work. Our context is algorithm simulation exercises, where students simulate the steps of a given algorithm by manipulating data structure visualizations on a computer screen by using a mouse. Thus, contrasting to “typical” data structures and algorithms courses, these exercises are designed to work on an abstraction level higher than that of the actual implementation. We have analyzed the recorded simulation sequences to infer existing misconceptions from students' answers, and then implemented the corresponding variations of the target algorithm to find out how many of students' answers consistently follow each variation. The results suggest that many students are aware of the ultimate goal of the algorithm but have not studied the algorithm itself well enough. This often leads to different misconceptions that can be modeled and recognized using our approach. The results presented here concern the Build – Heap algorithm, but the approach is of general value.
Abdominal adiposity and coronary heart disease in women.

CONTEXT Obesity is a well-established risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD), but whether regional fat distribution contributes independently to risk remains unclear. OBJECTIVE To compare waist-hip ratio (WHR) and waist circumference in determining risk of CHD in women. DESIGN AND SETTING Prospective cohort study among US female registered nurses participating in the Nurses' Health Study conducted between 1986, when the nurses completed a questionnaire, and follow-up in June 1994. PARTICIPANTS A total of 44702 women aged 40 to 65 years who provided waist and hip circumferences and were free of prior CHD, stroke, or cancer in 1986. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Incidence of CHD (nonfatal myocardial infarction or CHD death). RESULTS During 8 years of follow-up 320 CHD events (251 myocardial infarctions and 69 CHD deaths) were documented. Higher WHR and greater waist circumference were independently associated with a significantly increased age-adjusted risk of CHD. After adjusting for body mass index (BMI) (defined as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters) and other cardiac risk factors, women with a WHR of 0.88 or higher had a relative risk (RR) of 3.25 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.78-5.95) for CHD compared with women with a WHR of less than 0.72. A waist circumference of 96.5 cm (38 in) or more was associated with an RR of 3.06 (95% CI, 1.54-6.10). The WHR and waist circumference were independently strongly associated with increased risk of CHD also among women with a BMI of 25 kg/m2 or less. After adjustment for reported hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol level, a WHR of 0.76 or higher or waist circumference of 76.2 cm (30 in) or more was associated with more than a 2-fold higher risk of CHD. CONCLUSIONS The WHR and waist circumference are independently associated with risk of CHD in women.
Dose-dependent onset and cessation of action of inhaled budesonide on exhaled nitric oxide and symptoms in mild asthma

Background: Dose dependent anti-inflammatory effects of inhaled corticosteroids in asthma are difficult to demonstrate in clinical practice. The anti-inflammatory effect of low dose inhaled budesonide on non-invasive exhaled markers of inflammation and oxidative stress were assessed in patients with mild asthma. Methods: 28 patients entered a double blind, placebo controlled, parallel group study and were randomly given either 100 or 400 μg budesonide or placebo once daily, inhaled from a dry powder inhaler (Turbohaler), for 3 weeks followed by 1 week without treatment. Exhaled nitric oxide (NO), exhaled carbon monoxide (CO), nitrite/nitrate, S-nitrosothiols, and 8-isoprostanes in exhaled breath condensate were measured four times during weeks 1 and 4, and once a week during weeks 2 and 3. Results: A dose-dependent speed of onset and cessation of action of budesonide was seen on exhaled NO and asthma symptoms. Treatment with 400 μg/day reduced exhaled NO faster (–2.06 (0.37) ppb/day) than 100 μg/day (–0.51 (0.35) ppb/day; p<0.01). The mean difference between the effect of 100 and 400 μg budesonide was –1.55 ppb/day (95% CI –2.50 to –0.60). Pretreatment NO levels were positively related to the subsequent speed of reduction during the first 3–5 days of treatment. Faster recovery of exhaled NO was seen after stopping treatment with budesonide 400 μg/day (1.89 (1.43) ppb/day) than 100 μg/day (0.49 (0.34) ppb/day, p<0.01). The mean difference between the effect of 100 and 400 μg budesonide was 1.40 ppb/day (95% CI –0.49 to 2.31). Symptom improvement was dose-dependent, although symptoms returned faster in patients treated with 400 μg/day. A significant reduction in exhaled nitrite/nitrate and S-nitrosothiols after budesonide treatment was not dose-dependent. There were no significant changes in exhaled CO or 8-isoprostanes in breath condensate. Conclusion: Measurement of exhaled NO levels can indicate a dose-dependent onset and cessation of anti-inflammatory action of inhaled corticosteroids in patients with mild asthma.
Blood pressure percentiles by age and body mass index for adults

Since no comprehensive study has been conducted on blood pressure (BP) percentiles established upon nationally representative sample population of adults, the present study aimed to construct the blood pressure percentiles by age, sex and body mass index (BMI) of the subjects. Analyses were based on data collected in 2011 from 8,425 adults aged 25 to 69 years old. Data on demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, and blood pressure was recorded for each subject. Linear Regression analysis was used to assess the adjusted relationship of age-sex-specific standard deviation scores of BMI, height, and weight with blood pressure. Four separate models for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of men and women were constructed for BP percentiles according to age and BMI. Blood pressure increased with the rise in BMI and weight, but showed a negative correlation with height. SBP and DBP rose steadily with increasing age, but the rise in SBP was greater than DBP. Overweight and obese population, seem to fall into the category of hypertensive. The findings of present study show that BP percentiles are steadily increased by age and BMI. In addition, most obese or overweight adults are hypertensive.
5‐HTTLPR S‐allele: a genetic plasticity factor regarding the effects of life events on personality?

The S‐allele of the 5‐HTTLPR has been identified as a genetic vulnerability factor, being associated with an increased risk for affective disorders and/or maladaptive traits (e.g. neuroticism), especially after exposition to negative life‐events (LEs). Alternatively, it has been hypothesized that this genetic risk factor might constitute a genetic plasticity factor. That is, S‐allele carriers are not only vulnerable to the negative effects of a preponderance of stressful LEs but also disproportionally benefit from a preponderance of positive environmental influences. We tested this hypothesis in 357 subjects who were genotyped for the 5‐HTTLPR and provided self‐reports of neuroticism, life‐satisfaction and LEs. Results showed a relatively increased number of positive LEss to be associated with reduced neuroticism (men: β = −0.501, P < 0.05, women: β = −0.369, P < 0.005) and increased life satisfaction (β = 0.494, P < 0.001) within SS‐homozygotes. Within SL‐heterozygotes, similar tendencies were found. No associations were detected in LL‐homozygotes. Extreme Group comparisons revealed a genotype × LE interaction (F2,198 = 5.593, P < 0.005), with SS‐homozygotes having experienced predominantly positive LEs exhibiting reduced neuroticism (women: F1,34 = 4.764, P < 0.05; men: F1,17 = 2.092, P = 0.17), and increased life satisfaction (F1,53 = 4.057, P < 0.05), as compared to LL‐homozygotes having experienced predominantly positive LEs. Our data support the idea that the S‐allele of the 5‐HTTLPR is associated with an overall increased reactivity to environmental influences, be they positive or negative in nature. These findings constitute a promising add‐on to earlier data and support the plasticity hypothesis.