Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Families’ experiences with schizophrenia

Families of people with schizophrenia often experience difficult challenges when it comes to dealing with this illness. Contemporary researchers suggest that families often take on the task of caring for their ill relatives with limited resources and support. Mental health professionals often fail to include the families in the treatment of their relatives. Although psychoeducation has been shown to be an important process that helps not only the families but relatives as well, mental health professionals commonly do not involve families in such activities. This study explored the experiences of families of people with schizophrenia and their subsequent contact with mental health professionals, as well as their understanding of schizophrenia as a mental disorder. To this end, a small sample of 10 families (four Xhosa speaking families as well as six Coloured families) was drawn in the Western Cape area on a convenience basis. In each case a family caregiver was interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were content analyzed. The findings of the study indicate that families find it difficult to deal with their ill relatives. Families often experience stigma-related incidents because of their relatives. They feel isolated and alone. Families often yearn to receive more information about the illness of their relatives. Also, the contact between mental health professionals and families was reported to be minimal at best. Family members reported that mental health professionals do not include them in the treatment process. Recommendations for further research and practice are made.
Enhanced Expressions of mRNA for Neuropeptide Y and Interleukin 1 Beta in Hypothalamic Arcuate Nuclei during Adjuvant Arthritis-Induced Anorexia in Lewis Rats

Objective: Food intake is activated by hypothalamic orexigenic neuropeptide Y (NPY), which is mainly under the dual control of leptin and ghrelin. Rat adjuvant arthritis (AA), similarly as human rheumatoid arthritis, is associated with cachexia caused by yet unknown mechanisms. The aim of our study was to evaluate NPY expression in hypothalamic arcuate nuclei (nARC) under the conditions of AA-induced changes in leptin, ghrelin and adiponectin. Since IL-1β is involved in the central induction of anorexia, we studied its expression in the nARC as well. Methods: AA was induced to Lewis rats using complete Freund’s adjuvant. On days 12, 15 and 18 after complete Freund’s adjuvant injection, the levels of leptin, adiponectin, ghrelin and IL-1β were determined by RIA or ELISA. The mRNA expressions for NPY, leptin receptor (OB-R), ghrelin receptor (Ghsr) and IL-1β were determined by TaqMan RT-PCR from isolated nARC. Results: In AA rats, decreased appetite, body mass and epididymal fat stores positively correlated with reduced circulating and epididymal fat leptin and adiponectin. Ghrelin plasma levels were increased. In nARC, mRNA for OB-R, Ghsr and NPY were overexpressed in AA rats. AA rats showed overexpression of mRNA for IL-1β in nARC while circulating, and spleen IL-1β was unaltered. Conclusion: During AA, overexpression of orexigenic NPY mRNA in nARC along with enhanced plasma ghrelin and lowered leptin levels occur. Decreased food intake indicates a predominant effect of the anorexigenic pathway. Activated expression of IL-1β in nARC suggests its role in keeping AA-induced anorexia in progress. The reduction in adiponectin may also contribute to AA-induced anorexia.
Specific T helper cells that activate B cells polyclonally. In vitro enrichment and cooperative function

C3H/HeJ T cells which specifically recognize B cell-surface antigens of the related, major histocompatibility complex-compatible C3H/Tif strain, can be substantially enriched in vitro by long-term exposure (2- -6 wk) of primed lymph node cells to the relevant cellular antigens. These enriched T cells contain functional helper cells as demonstrated by their capacity to induce large numbers of Ig-secreting plaque- forming cells (PFC) in cultures of antigenic B cells. The cooperative interaction results in activation of a large fraction of all splenic B cells, with consequent exponential growth and maturation to high rate secretion of IgM, IgG1, and IgG2, but not IgG3. The IgM PFC response includes antibody specificities to a number of different antigens and can be considered, therefore, as polyclonal. The T helper cell- dependent B-cell response is insensitive to inhibition by anti-delta antibodies, and in contrast with lipopolysaccharide-induced PFC responses, is only partially sensitive to the inhibitory effects of anti-mu antibodies. Finally, B-cell activation to growth and maturation by helper T cells strictly required direct T-cell recognition of antigens on the surface of responding B cells, leading us to the conclusions that if any soluble factors are generated in the collaborative process, they are either antigen specific or incompetent to initiate B-cell growth.
An Accurate Link Model and Its Application to Stability Analysis of FAST TCP

This paper presents a link model which captures the queue dynamics when congestion windows of TCP sources change. By considering both the self-clocking and the link integrator effects, the model is a generalization of existing models and is shown to be more accurate by both open loop and closed loop packet level simulations. It reduces to the known static link model when flows' round trip delays are similar, and approximates the standard integrator link model when the heterogeneity of round trip delays is significant. We then apply this model to the stability analysis of FAST TCP. It is shown that FAST TCP flows over a single link are always linearly stable regardless of delay distribution. This result resolves the notable discrepancy between empirical observations and previous theoretical predictions. The analysis highlights the critical role of self-clocking in TCP stability and the scalability of FAST TCP with respect to delay. The proof technique is new and less conservative than the existing ones.
Studies on epstein‐barr virus‐related antigens. II. Biochemical properties of soluble antigen in raji burkitt lymphoma cells

Biochemical properties of Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV)‐related soluble antigen in non‐producer Raji Burkitt lymphoblastoid cells, assayed by the indirect single radial immunodiffusion (ISRD) test, were investigated. The soluble ISRD antigen retained activity even after exposure to a temperature of 80°C. The antigen was precipitated in 40% saturated ammonium sulfate and ISRD activity was recovered from the precipitate when reconstituted into a solution. Isoelectric focusing and crossed immuno‐electrophoretic analyses revealed that the isoelectric point of the ISRD antigen is pH 4.8 with an electrophoretic mobility similar to that of serum α‐globulin. With Sephadex G‐200 or Sepharose 6B gel filtration, ISRD activity was obtained as a single peak which corresponded to the activity absorbing anti‐complement immunofluorescence. The molecular weight of the present EBV‐related soluble antigen was estimated to be 220,000–240,000 daltons.
Effect of Hypertension on Blood‐Brain Barrier Change after Restoration of Blood Flow in Post‐Ischemic Gerbil Brains: An Electronmicroscopic Study

The effect of induced hypertension on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) change in Mongolian ger-bils exposed to various periods of ischemia was studied. EVANS blue dye was used to determine the BBB change In animals subjected to different levels of hypertension after 3 h ischemia. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was used in electronmicroscopic studies of animals subjected to 30 min, 1,3 or 6 h ischemia and subsequently ex-posed for 30 min to varying periods and sequences of nonno- and hypertension. Furthermore, HRP-labeled vesicle counts were performed in animals from the 30-min ischemia group. Our findings revealed that hypertension, after blood flow restoration following ischemia, induces and/or accelerates BBB damage by enhancing endotheiial vesicular and/or tubuio-channel transport.
Challenges in the Role of Gammaglobulin Replacement Therapy and Vaccination Strategies for Hematological Malignancy

Patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and multiple myeloma (MM) are prone to present with antibody production deficits associated with recurrent or severe bacterial infections that might benefit from human immunoglobulin (Ig) (IVIg/SCIg) replacement therapy. However, the original IVIg trial data were done before modern therapies were available, and the current indications do not take into account the shift in the immune situation of current treatment combinations and changes in the spectrum of infections. Besides, patients affected by other B cell malignancies present with similar immunodeficiency and manifestations while they are not covered by the current IVIg indications. A potential beneficial strategy could be to vaccinate patients at monoclonal B lymphocytosis and monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance stages (for CLL and MM, respectively) or at B-cell malignancy diagnosis, when better antibody responses are attained. We have to re-emphasize the need for assessing and monitoring specific antibody responses; these are warranted to select adequately those patients for whom early intervention with prophylactic anti-infective therapy and/or IVIg is preferred. This review provides an overview of the current scenario, with a focus on prevention of infection in patients with hematological malignancies and the role of Ig replacement therapy.
Information Technology Penetration and E-commerce Developments in Greece, With a Focus on Small to Medium-sized Enterprises

Electronic commerce (e‐commerce) revolutionizes both global economies and marketplaces. A number of developed countries have demonstrated clear leadership in e‐commerce, as demonstrated by the level of ICT penetration in organizations and households. However, traditional economies have experienced a much slower uptake of e‐commerce. This is attributed to difficulties in enhancing the usage of personal computers and in increasing the utilization of the Internet and Information Communications Technologies (ICTs) throughout their production mechanisms. This paper concentrates on Greece and demonstrates a number of indicators that synthesize the level of e‐commerce penetration. The Greek economy is going through a major transformation and ICTs may be instrumental in its international competitiveness. The paper provides a comprehensive overview from both the production/supply (macro and micro) and consumption/demand sides. It focuses on the level of ICT penetration in small and medium‐sized enterprises and con.
Developing a Train-the-Trainer (TTT) model for social work education in Kazakhstan

This Brief Note reports on the development, implementation, and evaluation of a Train-the-Trainer (TTT) model for training social workers in Kazakhstan. The project took place over a two-year period and included a needs assessment, community outreach, curriculum development, and training in Kazakhstan and New York. We discuss the development, implementation, and evaluation of TTT the project.
Harmonization: the Sample, the Measurement, and the Report

Harmonization of clinical laboratory results means that results are comparable irrespective of the measurement procedure used and where or when a measurement was made. Harmonization of test results includes consideration of pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical aspects. Progress has been made in each of these aspects, but there is currently poor coordination of the effort among different professional organizations in different countries. Pre-analytical considerations include terminology for the order, instructions for preparation of the patient, collection of the samples, and handling and transportation of the samples to the laboratory. Key analytical considerations include calibration traceability to a reference system, commutability of reference materials used in a traceability scheme, and specificity of the measurement of the biomolecule of interest. International organizations addressing harmonization include the International Federation for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, the World Health Organization, and the recently formed International Consortium for Harmonization of Clinical Laboratory Results (ICHCLR). The ICHCLR will provide a prioritization process for measurands and a service to coordinate global harmonization activities to avoid duplication of effort. Post-analytical considerations include nomenclature, units, significant figures, and reference intervals or decision values for results. Harmonization in all of these areas is necessary for optimal laboratory service. This review summarizes the status of harmonization in each of these areas and describes activities underway to achieve the goal of fully harmonized clinical laboratory testing.
The Connections Between Latino Ethnic Identity and Adult Experiences

This study considers the influence of adult experiences on the development of Latino ethnic identity. Using purposeful and snowball sampling, adult participants responded to open-ended questions about their understanding of being Latino. Analysis indicated that changes in the environment or life circumstances had the greatest effect on the reevaluation of identity. This process, referred to as looping, occurred in 35% of the adults surveyed and illustrates the process that occurs when an individual questions previous understanding of identity yet does not lose his/her previous sense of committed self. In addition, the study found that adults who self-identify as having a bicultural orientation were more likely to experience a looping effect, though some Latino-oriented individuals also experienced this effect.
Large-Capacity Magazines and the Casualty Counts in Mass Shootings: The Plausibility of Linkages

Do bans on large-capacity magazines (LCMs) for semiautomatic firearms have significant potential for reducing the number of deaths and injuries in mass shootings? The most common rationale for an effect of LCM use is that they allow mass killers to fire many rounds without reloading. LCMs are used is less than 1/3 of 1% of mass shootings. News accounts of 23 shootings in which more than six people were killed or wounded and LCMs were used, occurring in the U.S. in 1994-2013, were examined. There was only one incident in which the shooter may have been stopped by bystander intervention when he tried to reload. In all of these 23 incidents the shooter possessed either multiple guns or multiple magazines, meaning that the shooter, even if denied LCMs, could have continued firing without significant interruption by either switching loaded guns or by changing smaller loaded magazines with only a 2-4 second delay for each magazine change. Finally, the data indicate that mass shooters maintain slow enough rates of fire such that the time needed to reload would not increase the time between shots and thus the time available for prospective victims to escape.
Adapting the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) as a tool for validating user needs on the implementation of e-trial software systems

This paper presents an adapted version of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology Model to be utilised as a validation tool of captured user needs and requirements of particular interactive software technologies, within the framework of Clinical Trial Management Systems (CTMS). In particular, this model is used to assess the users' acceptance and technology adoption of specific CTMS modules of the electronic Primary Care Research Network (ePCRN) Clinical Trial Management Framework System. We present modifications on the variable of the key constructs of UTAUT, while we introduce our own moderating factors for the model in the context of validating an eligibility criteria tool for primary care and community-based clinical research.
If they really wanted to, they would

This study explores the solidification of the discourse of integration of the Gypsy/Roma in the European press following the fall of Communism. A discourse analysis focuses on the British and Romanian press between 1990 and 2006, and it suggests that, in the midst of opening of EU borders and talks of a European Constitution, the idea and necessity of integration grew in political popularity as a means to peaceably alleviate interethnic conflict. However, the discourse of integration has continuously shifted between assimilationist voices and projects that attempt to change the Gypsy other into a non-Gypsy, on the one hand, and human rights-inspired defense and advocacy for the Roma, on the other. This article further suggests that the press does more than confirm stereotypes; instead, uncertainties, contradictions, and changes mark press writing.
Glomus Tumor of the Index Finger

A 41-year-old female patient presented with localized worsening subungual pain of her right index finger. Subsequent diagnostic evaluation revealed the presence of a glomus tumor. A glomus tumor is a rare tumor with a predilection for the hand. Classic symptoms include pain, pain with pressure, and pain with cold temperature. We present a completely updated literature review that addresses the epidemiology, pathology, presentation, diagnostic evaluation, classification, histology, genetics, and treatment options for glomus tumors.
Fictions, fantasies, and fears: The literary foundations of the cl oning debate

Abstract The debate about cloning and genetic engineering, which began in 1997, has been strongly influenced by fictional narratives, scripts, and images. They in turn provided the seeds for the creation of various metaphors used in the debate, especially by the media. The flow of metaphors and images associated with cloning is now ebbing away and is being replaced by a new wave of images and metaphors deployed in arguments against genetically modified food. In both cases, cloning and genetically modified food, the media reports are interwoven with more or less explicit references to science fiction novels and films, from Frankenstein to Gattaca and beyond. They nourish and reflect the general public's fears about an increasing process of biological hybridisation which blurs the boundaries between humans, plants, animals, and machines and threatens people's sense of humanity.
Mutual dependence for secret key agreement

A mutual dependence expression is established for the secret key agreement problem when all users are active. In certain source networks, the expression can be interpreted as certain notions of connectivity and network information flow. In particular, the secrecy problem can be mapped to a new class of network coding problems with selectable links and undirected broadcast links. For such networks, the secrecy capacities serve as upper bounds on the maximum network throughputs, while the network coding solutions can be used for secret key agreement.
Prevalence of Common Mental Disorders in a Rural District of Kenya, and Socio-Demographic Risk Factors

Association between common mental disorders (CMDs), equity, poverty and socio-economic functioning are relatively well explored in high income countries, but there have been fewer studies in low and middle income countries, despite the considerable burden posed by mental disorders, especially in Africa, and their potential impact on development. This paper reports a population-based epidemiological survey of a rural area in Kenya. A random sample of 2% of all adults living in private households in Maseno, Kisumu District of Nyanza Province, Kenya (50,000 population), were studied. The Clinical Interview Schedule-Revised (CIS-R) was used to determine the prevalence of common mental disorders (CMDs). Associations with socio-demographic and economic characteristics were explored. A CMD prevalence of 10.8% was found, with no gender difference. Higher rates of illness were found in those who were of older age and those in poor physical health. We conclude that CMDs are common in Kenya and rates are elevated among people who are older, and those in poor health.
Inhibition and Reversal of Microbial Attachment by an Antibody with Parasteric Activity against the FimH Adhesin of Uropathogenic E. coli

Attachment proteins from the surface of eukaryotic cells, bacteria and viruses are critical receptors in cell adhesion or signaling and are primary targets for the development of vaccines and therapeutic antibodies. It is proposed that the ligand-binding pocket in receptor proteins can shift between inactive and active conformations with weak and strong ligand-binding capability, respectively. Here, using monoclonal antibodies against a vaccine target protein - fimbrial adhesin FimH of uropathogenic Escherichia coli, we demonstrate that unusually strong receptor inhibition can be achieved by antibody that binds within the binding pocket and displaces the ligand in a non-competitive way. The non-competitive antibody binds to a loop that interacts with the ligand in the active conformation of the pocket but is shifted away from ligand in the inactive conformation. We refer to this as a parasteric inhibition, where the inhibitor binds adjacent to the ligand in the binding pocket. We showed that the receptor-blocking mechanism of parasteric antibody differs from that of orthosteric inhibition, where the inhibitor replaces the ligand or allosteric inhibition where the inhibitor binds at a site distant from the ligand, and is very potent in blocking bacterial adhesion, dissolving surface-adherent biofilms and protecting mice from urinary bladder infection.
A consensus protocol for the standardization of cerebrospinal fluid collection and biobanking

There is a long history of research into body fluid biomarkers in neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases. However, only a few biomarkers in CSF are being used in clinical practice. One of the most critical factors in CSF biomarker research is the inadequate powering of studies because of the lack of sufficient samples that can be obtained in single-center studies. Therefore, collaboration between investigators is needed to establish large biobanks of well-defined samples. Standardized protocols for biobanking are a prerequisite to ensure that the statistical power gained by increasing the numbers of CSF samples is not compromised by preanalytical factors. Here, a consensus report on recommendations for CSF collection and biobanking is presented, formed by the BioMS-eu network for CSF biomarker research in multiple sclerosis. We focus on CSF collection procedures, preanalytical factors, and high-quality clinical and paraclinical information. The biobanking protocols are applicable for CSF biobanks for research targeting any neurologic disease.