Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Orientation

Abstract This autoethnographic article shares the author’s personal experience of learning about the death of loved ones and the impact those experiences had on her adaptation to college life. Using Adult Transition Theory, the author compares responses of learning about her father’s death during freshmen orientation at age 18 and learning about her son’s death 25 years later as a doctoral student. These experiences reveal a notable difference in support offered by the two universities, which impacted her ability to adapt and suggests that universities would benefit from offering additional support and outreach for grieving students.
A model of magnesium metabolism in young sheep: transactions between plasma, cerebrospinal fluid and bone

An extension of the previously proposed model of Mg metabolism (Robson et al. 1997) has been developed to consider the transactions of Mg that are associated with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and bone. The representation of the CSF as a single Mg compartment with uptake from the plasma described by Michaelis–Menten kinetics gives very good agreement with published experiments. Analysis of the available information on resorption of Mg from adult bone indicates that this process makes a negligible contribution to Mg homeostasis and can be omitted from the model.
Causal links between binge drinking patterns, unsafe sex and HIV in South Africa: its time to intervene

South Africa has a massive burden of HIV and alcohol disease, and these pandemics are inextricably linked. Much evidence indicates that alcohol independently influences decisions around sex, and undermines skills for condom negotiation and correct use. Thus, not surprisingly, people with problem drinking in Africa have twofold higher risk for HIV than non-drinkers. Also, sexual violence incidents often coincide with heavy alcohol use, both among perpetrators and victims. Reducing alcohol harms necessitates both population- and individual-level interventions, especially raised taxation, regulation of alcohol advertising and provision of Brief Interventions. Alcohol counselling interventions must include discussion of linkages between alcohol and sex, and consequences thereof. Within positive-prevention services, alcohol reduction interventions could diminish HIV transmission. A trial is needed to definitively demonstrate that reduced drinking lowers HIV incidence. However, given available evidence, implementation of effective interventions could alleviate much alcohol-attributable disease, including unsafe sex, sexual violence, unintended pregnancy and, likely, HIV transmission.
Sensitivity analysis of near-far resistant DS-CDMA receivers to propagation delay estimation errors

We consider an asynchronous direct-sequence code division multiple access (DS-CDMA) communication system operating over an AWGN channel. In certain applications, the near-far problem can be the limiting factor for the capacity of a DS-CDMA system. Several near-far resistant receivers have therefore been proposed (e.g., the decorrelating receiver). These receivers assume perfect knowledge of the propagation delay from all users to the receiver. In practice, the delays need to be estimated and will thus be subject to estimation errors. We evaluate the performance penalty these errors will impose on previously proposed near-far resistant receivers. <<ETX>>
Byzantine Agreement in Expected Polynomial Time

We address the problem of Byzantine agreement, to bring processors to agreement on a bit in the presence of a strong adversary. This adversary has full information of the state of all processors, the ability to control message scheduling in an asynchronous model, and the ability to control the behavior of a constant fraction of processors that it may choose to corrupt adaptively. In 1983, Ben-Or proposed an algorithm for solving this problem with expected exponential communication time. In this article, we improve that result to require expected polynomial communication time and computation time. Like Ben-Or’s algorithm, our algorithm uses coinflips from individual processors to repeatedly try to generate a fair global coin. We introduce a method that uses spectral analysis to identify processors that have thwarted this goal by flipping biased coins.
Challenge Based Learning in Cybersecurity Education

This paper describes the application of the Challenge Based Learning (CBL) methodology to cybersecurity education. The overall goal is to improve student learning via a multidisciplinary approach which encourages students to collaborate with their peers, ask questions, develop a deeper understanding of the subject and take actions in solving real-world challenges. In this study, students established essential questions which reflected their interests in information security, formulated challenges on how to safeguard confidential information from cyber attacks and then came up with solutions to secure their information and network. For guiding activities, students participated in two cybersecurity competitions against their peers from other local universities. In these simulated real-life competitions, students were forced to work together, think on their own two feet and apply their knowledge to defend against cyber attacks. Assessments performed after the study showed improvement in students‘ computer and security skills, interest in learning security and ability to teach others. Student learning was further reinforced with publication of their research findings and making presentations to their fellow
Age-dependent variation in metalloproteinase activity of isolated human Bruch's membrane and choroid.

PURPOSE To characterize and determine the effect of aging on the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) component of the extracellular matrix-remodeling mechanism of isolated human Bruch's-choroid. METHODS Immunohistochemical techniques and western blot analysis were used to detect and localize various members of the MMP family of proteolytic enzymes in the Bruch's-choroid complex. Gelatin substrate zymography was used to detect and quantify the levels of MMP-2 and -9 in homogenates of Bruch's-choroid from both macular and peripheral regions of the human fundus. Aging alterations in these enzymes were quantified by densitometric analysis of photographic negatives of the zymography gels. RESULTS Intact preparations of Bruch's-choroid showed the presence of inactive forms of two gelatinases (MMP-2, 65 kDa, and MMP-9, 92 kDa), interstitial collagenase (MMP-1, 52 kDa) and stromelysin (MMP-3, 57 kDa). MMP-1 and -3 were localized primarily to Bruch's membrane. MMP-9 was distributed evenly in Bruch's membrane with some patchy presence in the choroidal mass. Distribution of MMP-2 was similar to that of MMP-9, but the staining in Bruch's was much fainter. On gelatin zymography, an active form of MMP-2 (58-kDa species) was frequently observed in peripheral samples but only occasionally in macular regions. The levels of MMP-2 and -9 increased with aging in both the macular and the peripheral regions of the fundus (P < 0.05). MMP-2 levels were lower in macular regions than in the periphery but no such variation was observed with MMP-9. Both these inactive gelatinases could be activated in vitro. CONCLUSIONS A matrix-degrading mechanism essential for extracellular remodeling was shown to be present in Bruch's membrane. In macular regions, increasing levels of inactive forms of metalloproteinase and scarcity of active forms of MMP-2 suggests possible involvement of impaired extracellular degradation in both aging and macular degeneration.
Increased Activity or Energy as a Primary Criterion for the Diagnosis of Bipolar Mania in DSM-5: Findings From the STEP-BD Study.

OBJECTIVE DSM-5 describes "a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and abnormally and persistently increased activity or energy" as a primary criterion for mania. Thus, increased energy or activity is now considered a core symptom of manic and hypomanic episodes. Using data from the Systematic Treatment Enhancement Program for Bipolar Disorder study, the authors analyzed point prevalence data obtained at the initial visit to assess the diagnostic validity of this new DSM-5 criterion. The study hypothesis was that the DSM-5 criterion would alter the prevalence of mania and/or hypomania. METHOD The authors compared prevalence, clinical characteristics, validators, and outcome in patients meeting the DSM-5 criteria (i.e., DSM-IV criteria plus the DSM-5 criterion of increased activity or energy) and those who did not meet the new DSM-5 criterion (i.e., who only met DSM-IV criteria). RESULTS All 4,360 participants met DSM-IV criteria for bipolar disorder, and 310 met DSM-IV criteria for a manic or hypomanic episode. When the new DSM-5 criterion of increased activity or energy was added as a coprimary symptom, the prevalence of mania and hypomania was reduced. Although minor differences were noted in clinical and concurrent validators, no changes were observed in longitudinal outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The findings confirm that including increased activity or energy as part of DSM-5 criterion A decreases the prevalence of manic and hypomanic episodes but does not affect longitudinal clinical outcomes.
The Transparent Velocity-Head Rod for Inexpensive and Accurate Measurement of Stream Velocities

This note offers a new tool for indirect stream velocity estimation: the transparent velocity-head rod (TVHR). When compared to the commercially available Price-type AA current meter, the TVHR dramatically reduces the time necessary for each velocity measurement. The TVHR is simple to build, far less expensive than a high quality current meter, and typically precise within 5%. The TVHR is an outgrowth of the older tool of indirect velocity estimation known as the velocity-head rod (VHR). The VHR, although simple, contains measurement difficulties that make its use inaccurate and somewhat unwieldy. The TVHR is a simple construction of transparent plastic and hardwood meter sticks. It allows simultaneous measurement of upstream superelevated water and depressed downstream water elevation created when the rod is placed into flowing water. The difference between these water height measurements can be used to predict the depth-averaged flow velocity using a simple, physically-based equation empirically calibrated for this particular design. In a field environment the TVHR is rugged, lightweight, and simple enough to allow velocity measurements to be made very rapidly on site. In a classroom environment the TVHR can be used to teach physical energy concepts, calibration techniques, design, and sampling theory.
What Is Missing in Amphibian Decline Research: Insights from Ecological Sensitivity Analysis

Abstract: Inventory, monitoring, and experimental studies have been the primary approaches for documenting and understanding the problem of amphibian declines. However, little attention has been given to placing human‐caused perturbations affecting one or more life‐history stages in the context of the overall population dynamics of particular species. We used two types of ecological sensitivity analysis to determine which vital rates have the strongest influence on the population dynamics of western toads ( Bufo boreas), red‐legged frogs ( Rana aurora), and common frogs ( Rana temporaria), pond‐breeding amphibians that have declined in all or portions of their ranges. Our results suggest that post‐metamorphic vital rates and highly variable vital rates both have a strong influence on the population dynamics of these species and therefore deserve more research and management attention. Ecological sensitivity analysis should be more widely applied to the issue of amphibian declines in order to identify the most plausible mechanisms of decline and prioritize which life‐history stages should be the focus of research and management efforts. Future experimental studies of perturbations in one or more life‐history stage should attempt to link the magnitude of the perturbation measured with the overall population‐level consequences. Finally, current research, inventory, and monitoring efforts should be supplemented with demographic studies so that quantitative analyses can be applied to a wider range of species and life‐history groups.
Conjunctive Enhancement of Enzymatic Thrombolysis and Prevention of Thrombotic Reocclusion With the Selective Factor Xa Inhibitor, Tick Anticoagulant Peptide: Comparison to Hirudin and Heparin in a Canine Model of Acute Coronary Artery Thrombosis

BackgroundEffective thrombolytic recanalization of an occluded coronary vessel is often limited by acute thrombotic reocclusion, which has galvanized the search for effective adjunctive or conjunctive antithrombotic agents. Methods and ResultsRecombinant versions of tick anticoagulant peptide (rTAP) and hirudin (rHIR) are highly selective and potent polypeptide inhibitors of factor Xa and thrombin, respectively. The comparative antithrombotic efficacies of rTAP, rHIR, and heparin, administered conjunctively with recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (rt-PA), on thrombolytic reperfusion and reocclusion, were determined in a canine model of occlusive coronary artery thrombosis with a superimposed critical stenosis. In this model, a platelet-rich occlusive thrombus was formed after damage to the intimal surface of the left circumflex coronary artery induced by electrolytic injury. Fifteen minutes after occlusion, the dogs received a systemic intravenous administration of either saline (control), heparin (200 units/kg bolus+2 units/kg/ min, heparin (HEP) 200 or 100 units/kg bolus+1 unit/kg/min, HEP 100), rHIR (50 or 100 μg/kg/min, rHIR 50 or 100, respectively), or rTAP (100 μg/kg/min, rTAP 100) followed 15 minutes later by rt-PA (100 μg/kg bolus+10 μg/kg/min over 90 minutes). Infusions of the conjunctive agents were discontinued 60 minutes after termination of rt-PA. The incidence and time (mean±SEM) to thrombolytic reperfusion were determined for control (five of 12; 68.0±7.8 minutes), HEP 100 (six of eight; 40.1±8.3 minutes), HEP 200 (six of eight; 39.8±9.5 minutes), rHIR 50 (six of eight; 51.7±14.6 minutes), rHIR 100 (eight of eight; 19.5 ±4.2 minutes), and rTAP 100 (eight of eight; 22.8±10.0 minutes). The incidence and time to reocclusion after rt-PA were determined for control (four of five; 45.7±12.5 minutes), HEP 100 (four of six; 18.2±10.7 minutes), HEP 200 (five of six; 26.2±20.7 minutes), rHIR 50 (four of six; 47.3±21.6 minutes), rHIR 100 (six of eight; 89.8±5.9 minutes), and rTAP 100 (three of eight; 54.0±16.3 minutes). All of the dogs that reoccluded in the rHIR 100 group did so after termination of the inhibitor infusion, whereas two of the three dogs in the rTAP 100 group that reoccluded did so during the inhibitor infusion. Coronary artery blood flow was characterized by intermittent periods of reocclusion and recanalization in all groups except rTAP 100. ConclusionsThe potent antithrombotic effects of rTAP in this model directly implicate de novo thrombin formation as a major source of thrombin activity within the highly thrombogenic residual thrombus. These findings suggest that direct inhibition of prothrombinase activity may be an effective strategy in the development of a new class of conjunctive agents.
Wireless medical communications using UWB

This paper introduces some of the recent activities in a medical ICT related ultra wideband (UWB) research. The paper concentrates on our proposed body area network (BAN) based system architecture for wireless medical communications, and gives also a summary on experimental UWB wireless BAN (WBAN) radio channels modeling activities. The network architecture under discussion consists of parts that have already been implemented and also parts that require studies in more details before their utilization and implementation into operative healthcare services. For detailed communication system designs, accurate close body channel models are needed. This paper gives also a summary on UWB radio channel models that are suitable to be applied in wireless body area network research. Experiments for UWB radio channel models have been done in real end-user environments.
Functional Subregions in Primary Auditory Cortex Defined by Thalamocortical Terminal Arbors: An Electrophysiological and Anterograde Labeling Study

Several functional maps have been described in primary auditory cortex, including those related to frequency, tuning, latency, binaurality, and intensity. Many of these maps are arranged in a discontinuous or patchy manner. Similarly, thalamocortical projections arising from the ventral division of the medial geniculate body to the primary auditory cortex are also patchy. We used anterograde labeling and electrophysiological methods to examine the relationship between thalamocortical patches and auditory cortical maps. Biotinylated dextran–amine was deposited into physiologically characterized sites in the ventral division of the medial geniculate body of New Zealand white rabbits. Approximately 7 d later, the animal was again anesthetized and the ipsilateral auditory cortex was mapped with tungsten microelectrodes. Multi-unit physiological data were obtained for the following characteristics: best frequency (BF), binaurality, response type, latency, sharpness of tuning, and threshold. Immunocytochemical methods were used to reveal the injection site in the ventral division of the medial geniculate body as well as the anterogradely labeled thalamocortical afferents in the auditory cortex. In 86% of the cases (12 of 14), entry into a thalamocortical patch was associated with a marked change in physiological responses. A consistent BF and binaural class were usually observed within a patch. The patches appear to innervate distinct functional regions coding frequency and binaurality. A model is presented showing how patchy thalamocortical projections participate in the formation of tonotopic and binaural maps in primary auditory cortex.
Low Energy Trauma in Older Persons: Where to Next?

The global population is increasing rapidly with older persons accounting for the greatest proportion. Associated with this rise is an increased rate of injury, including polytrauma, for which low energy falls has become the main cause. The resultant growing impact on trauma resources represents a major burden to the health system. Frailty, with its related issues of cognitive dysfunction and sarcopenia, is emerging as the unifying concept that relates both to the initial event and subsequent outcomes. Strategies to better assess and manage frailty are key to both preventing injury and improving trauma outcomes in the older population and research that links measures of frailty to trauma outcomes will be critical to informing future directions and health policy. The introduction of “Geriatric Emergency Departments” and the development of “Fracture Units” for frail older people will facilitate increased involvement of Geriatricians in trauma care and aid in the education of other health disciplines in the core principles of geriatric assessment and management. Collectively these should lead to improved care and outcomes for both survivors and those requiring end of life decisions and palliation.
Primary polycythemias

&NA; In this review, primary polycythemic states are discussed in the context of other polycythemic disorders. Primary polycythemias result from an acquired or inborn mutation affecting hematopoietic and erythroid cells. The best-known type of primary polycythemia is polycythemia vera, which is caused by an acquired somatic mutation of a hematopoietic stem cell with exaggerated myeloid proliferation; the molecular events leading to this disease are not understood. In contrast, primary familial and congenital polycythemias result from inborn mutation affecting hematopoietic and erythroid cells. The molecular mechanisms causing primary familial and congenital polycythemias may be different in different families; some have already been defined. Progress in defining the molecular defect of primary polycythemias and the better understanding of altered signal transduction leading to excessive erythrocyte production should provide important insights into the pathogenesis of primary polycythemias, other leukemic disorders, as well as normal hematopoiesis. Such information should contribute to better understanding of and more effective therapeutic interventions in myeloproliferative and leukemic disorders.
Extending the Boundaries of the Primary Arterial Switch Operation in Patients With Transposition of the Great Arteries and Intact Ventricular Septum

Background—We have previously suggested that the primary arterial switch operation is a feasible strategy for patients with transposition of the great arteries and intact ventricular septum (TGA-IVS) up to age 2 months. This study reports our current results with this approach and examines whether this policy could be extended beyond age 2 months. Methods and Results—380 patients who underwent arterial switch for TGA-IVS were reviewed. 275 patients were younger than 3 weeks at the time of surgery (early switch group); 105 patients were 3 weeks or older (range, 21 to 185 days) (late switch group). There was no difference in outcome in terms of in-hospital mortality (5.5% versus 3.8%) or need for mechanical circulatory support (3.6% versus 5.7%) between early and late switch groups. However, duration of postoperative ventilation (4.9 versus 7.1 days, P=0.012) and length of postoperative stay (12.5 versus 18.9 days, P<0.001) were significantly prolonged in the late switch group. Primary left ventricular failure resulting in death occurred in 2 patients in the late switch group, with no deaths in 9 patients aged 2 to 6 months. Conclusions—This experience confirms that in TGA-IVS, the left ventricle maintains the potential for systemic work well beyond the first month of life. Consequently, neonates at high risk or late referrals can benefit from delayed arterial switch, even beyond age 2 months. However, the need for mechanical support in some of the older patients may limit the widespread adoption of such a strategy.
Characteristics of a large cohort of patients with autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis in Japan.

RATIONALE Acquired pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a syndrome characterized by pulmonary surfactant accumulation occurring in association with granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor autoantibodies (autoimmune PAP) or as a consequence of another disease (secondary PAP). Because PAP is rare, prior reports were based on limited patient numbers or a synthesis of historical data. OBJECTIVES To describe the epidemiologic, clinical, physiologic, and laboratory features of autoimmune PAP in a large, contemporaneous cohort of patients with PAP. METHODS Over 6 years, 248 patients with PAP were enrolled in a Japanese national registry, including 223 with autoimmune PAP. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Autoimmune PAP represented 89.9% of cases and had a minimum incidence and prevalence of 0.49 and 6.2 per million, respectively. The male to female ratio was 2.1:1, and the median age at diagnosis was 51 years. A history of smoking occurred in 56%, and dust exposure occurred in 23%; instances of familial onset did not occur. Dyspnea was the most common presenting symptom, occurring in 54.3%. Importantly, 31.8% of patients were asymptomatic and were identified by health screening. Intercurrent illnesses, including infections, were infrequent. A disease severity score reflecting the presence of symptoms and degree of hypoxemia correlated well with carbon monoxide diffusing capacity and serum biomarkers, less well with pulmonary function, and not with granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor autoantibody levels or duration of disease. CONCLUSIONS Autoimmune PAP had an incidence and prevalence higher than previously reported and was not strongly linked to smoking, occupational exposure, or other illnesses. The disease severity score and biomarkers provide novel and potentially useful outcome measures in PAP.