Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Repeated Derecruitments Accentuate Lung Injury During Mechanical Ventilation*

Objectives:The aim of our study was to assess whether repeated derecruitments induced by the repetitive withdrawal of high positive end-expiratory pressure could induce lung injury in a swine model. Design:Prospective, randomized, experimental animal study. Setting:University laboratory. Subjects:Specific pathogen-free pigs (Choong–Ang Laboratory Animals, Seoul, Korea) weighing around 30 kg. Interventions:After lung injury was induced by repeated saline lavage, pigs were ventilated in pressure-limited mode with the highest possible positive end-expiratory pressure with a tidal volume of 8 mL/kg and maximum inspiratory pressure of 30 cm H2O. With this initial ventilator setting, the control group (n = 5) received ventilation without derecruitments for 4 hours, and in the derecruitment group (n = 5), derecruitments were repeatedly induced by intentional disconnection of the ventilatory circuit for 30 seconds every 5 minutes for 4 hours. Measurements and Main Results:After the initial increase in positive end-expiratory pressure, the PaO2 increased to greater than 450 mm Hg in both groups. The PaO2 remained at greater than 450 mm Hg in the control group persistently, but in the derecruitment group, PaO2 significantly decreased to 427.7 mm Hg (adjusted p = 0.03) after 2 hours and remained significant for the rest of the study. PaCO2, oxygenation index, and alveolar-arterial oxygen gradient also significantly increased after 2 hours compared with the control group. However, the variables of respiratory mechanics except for minute volume at 2-hour point showed no difference between the two groups for the duration of the study. Histologically, significant bronchiolar injury was observed in the dependent portion of the derecruitment group compared with the controls (p = 0.03), but not in the nondependent area of the lung. Conclusions:Repeated derecruitments exacerbated lung injury, particularly at the bronchiolar level in the dependent portion. Strategies to minimize this type of injury should be incorporated when designing optimal ventilator strategies in acute respiratory distress syndrome patients.
The effect of pioglitazone on peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma target genes related to lipid storage in vivo.

OBJECTIVE Pioglitazone is a member of the thiazolidinediones (TZDs), insulin-sensitizing agents used to treat type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study was to define the effect of pioglitazone on the expression of genes related to carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in subcutaneous fat obtained from type 2 diabetic patients. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Forty-eight volunteers with type 2 diabetes were divided into two groups treated for 12 weeks with placebo or pioglitazone (30 mg/day). The expression of several genes was quantified by real-time RT-PCR. RESULTS Pioglitazone treatment increased the expression of genes involved in glycerol-3-phosphate synthesis. The mRNA expression of PEPCK-C and glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH) increased (P < 0.01) in patients treated with pioglitazone. There was no difference in glycerol kinase (GyK) mRNA levels. The expression of genes that regulate fatty acid availability in adipocytes, including lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and acetyl-CoA synthetase (ACS), was higher (P < 0.01) in pioglitazone-treated patients. Pioglitazone stimulated (P < 0.0001) expression of c-Cbl-associated protein (CAP), whereas tumor necrosis factor-alpha, leptin, resistin, angiopoietin like-4, and 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11beta HSD 1) were not affected by pioglitazone. The baseline peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-gamma1 mRNA was significantly correlated with mRNA for LPL, CAP, ACS, 11beta HSD 1, GyK, fatty acid synthase, leptin, and GPDH, whereas PPAR-gamma2 mRNA was correlated with CAP, PEPCK-C, leptin, and GPDH. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with pioglitazone increased body weight, and this is associated with upregulation of some, but not all, genes previously demonstrated as "TZD responsive" in subcutaneous fat. The results suggest that TZDs might increase body weight through the upregulation of genes facilitating adipocyte lipid storage in vivo.
A Generic Framework for Optimizing Digital Intensive Harmonic Rejection Receivers

Due to the use of switching down converters, harmonic down mixing in wideband wireless application causes distortion to the desired signal. This paper studies this problem with a multi-path down mixing method, which currently is a hot research topic. Digital intensive recombination is proposed fort he first time, in contrast to the traditional "analog recombination"scheme which suffers from the limited harmonic rejection performance due to mismatch among different paths and inaccuracy of scaling factors. A generic framework with mathematical model description is presented in this paper for digital intensive optimization of multi-path harmonic rejection scheme. A mathematical derivation to optimize a generic case with N paths and aiming at rejecting up to the Mth order harmonics is proposed. Additionally, we present an optimal solution to achieve the best harmonic rejection performance for a generic case based on least squares criterion. Specific cases, three and four paths to reject up to the fifth-order harmonics are studied using the proposed mathematical framework. The results show that, theoretically, 18.12dB and complete harmonic rejection can be achieved for three and four paths respectively, which provide mathematical proof for existing multi-path harmonic rejection solutions.
Characteristics of worry in GAD patients, social phobics, and controls

Phenomenological features of worry such as thought content, subjective experience of worry, and efforts to control were investigated in the present interview study, as well as retrospective information about possible origins. To examine the clinical specificity of worrying in Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), 36 GAD patients were compared to a normal control group (N = 30) and to a clinical control group (N = 22 social phobics). GAD patients differed from both groups in having higher frequency of worry, higher number of different worry topics, lower subjective controllability, more accompanying bodily symptoms, and more distress during worry. Thus, in general, our data confirm the central and specific role of worrying in GAD. Furthermore, in contrast to other topics, worrying about daily hassles was specific to GAD patients, which represents a lower threshold for starting to worry. Depression and Anxiety 13:89–96, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hybrid fuzzy modelling using memetic algorithm for hydrocyclone control

The use of a hybrid fuzzy modeling can act as a good alternative in establishing a hydrocyclone control model in estimating the hydrocyclone parameter, d50c. In most control and engineering applications, the use of fuzzy system as a way to improve the human-computer interaction has becoming popular. The main advantage of this proposed hybrid fuzzy system used for hydrocyclone control is that it only presents a small amount of fuzzy rules. It uses memetic algorithms to optimize the fuzzy parameters of the system to yield in a more accurate hydrocyclone control system.
Efficient execution of Kahn process networks on multi-processor systems using protothreads and windowed FIFOs

As single-processor systems are ceasing to scale effectively, multi-processor systems are becoming more and more popular. While there are many challenges of designing multi-processor systems in hardware, writing efficient parallel applications that utilize the computing capability of multiple processors may reveal to be even more challenging. In this paper, we introduce a framework that allows to efficiently execute applications expressed as Kahn process networks on multi-processor systems using protothreads and windowed FIFOs. We show that application developers can use this framework to achieve considerable speed-ups on the Cell Broadband Engine without needing to write architecture-specific code.
Changes in Antipyrine Clearance and Platelet Count, but Not Conventional Liver Tests, Correlate With Fibrotic Change in Chronic Hepatitis C: Value for Predicting Fibrotic Progression

OBJECTIVE:We tested whether fibrotic progression in chronic hepatitis C could be predicted by liver tests, antipyrine clearance, or platelet count.METHODS:In 58 patients (6 untreated, 52 interferon-treated), a second liver biopsy was taken median 4.5 yr after first histologic diagnosis. We used receiver operating characteristic curves to determine whether changes in conventional liver tests, antipyrine clearance, or platelet count were predictive of altered hepatic fibrosis score.RESULTS:Apart from a weak association with change in ALT, conventional liver tests (albumin, bilirubin, prothrombin time) failed to correlate with changes (Δ) in hepatic fibrosis, but there were significant correlations between Δantipyrine clearance or Δplatelet count and Δfibrosis score (p < 0.01). As indicated by areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves, the diagnostic accuracy of Δantipyrine clearance for fibrotic progression was 68%; for Δplatelet count it was 80%. With defined cut-off values (−0.05 ml/min/kg for Δantipyrine clearance; −41 × 109/L for Δplatelet count), the negative predictive values for fibrotic progression were 85% with antipyrine clearance and 89% with platelet count. Corresponding positive predictive values were 48% and 91%, respectively.CONCLUSIONS:Changes in antipyrine clearance and platelet count are more sensitive than conventional tests for indicating fibrotic change in chronic hepatitis C. Both could be used to reliably identify those who do not have fibrotic progression, and platelet count also has a high positive predictive value for disease progression.
Evolution of spiral galaxies in modified gravity II. Gas dynamics

The stability of spiral galaxies is compared in modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND) and Newtonian dynamics with dark matter. We extend our previous simulations that involved pure stellar discs without gas, to deal with the effects of gas dissipation and star formation. We also vary the interpolating μ -function between the MOND and Newtonian regime. Bar formation is studied and compared in both dynamics, from initial conditions identical in visible component morphology and kinematics (same density profile, rotation curve, and velocity dispersion). One first result is that the MOND galaxy evolution is not affected by the choice of the μ -function, it develops bars with the same frequency and strength. The choice of the μ -function significantly changes the equivalent Newton models, in changing the dark matter to visible mass ratio and, therefore, changing the stability. The introduction of gas shortens the timescale for bar formation in the Newton model, but is not significantly shortened in the MOND model, since it was already small. As a consequence, with gas, the MOND and DM bar frequency histograms are now more similar than without gas. The thickening of the plane occurs through vertical resonance with the bar and peanut formation, and even more quickly with gas. Since the mass gets more concentrated with gas, the radius of the peanut is smaller, and the appearance of the pseudo-bulge is more boxy. The bar strength difference is moderated by saturation, and feedback effects, like the bar weakening or destruction by gas inflow due to gravity torques. Averaged over a series of models representing the Hubble sequence, the MOND models have still more bars, and stronger bars, than the equivalent Newton models, better fitting the observations. Gas inflows driven by bars produce accumulations at rings or pseudo-rings at Lindblad resonances, and MOND models can reproduce observed morphologies quite well, as was found before in the Newtonian dynamics.
Revascularisation of patients with end-stage renal disease on chronic haemodialysis: bypass surgery versus PCI—analysis of routine statutory health insurance data

Objectives We aimed to analyse the short-term and long-term outcome of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing percutaneous intervention (PCI) as compared to coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) to evaluate the optimal coronary revascularisation strategy. Design Retrospective analysis of routine statutory health insurance data between 2010 and 2012. Main outcome measures Primary outcome was adjusted all-cause mortality after 30 days and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events at 1 year. Secondary outcomes were repeat revascularisation at 30 days and 1 year and bleeding events within 7 days. Results The total number of cases was n=4123 (PCI; n=3417), median age was 71 (IQR 62–77), 30.4% were women. The adjusted OR for death within 30 days was 0.59 (95% CI 0.43 to 0.81) for patients undergoing PCI versus CABG. At 1 year, the adjusted OR for major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) was 1.58 (1.32 to 1.89) for PCI versus CABG and 1.47 (1.23 to 1.75) for all-cause death. In the subgroup of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), adjusted all-cause mortality at 30 days did not differ significantly between both groups (OR 0.75 (0.47 to 1.20)), whereas in patients without AMI the OR for 30-day mortality was 0.44 (0.28 to 0.68) for PCI versus CABG. At 1 year, the adjusted OR for MACCE in patients with AMI was 1.40 (1.06 to 1.85) for PCI versus CABG and 1.47 (1.08 to 1.99) for mortality. Conclusions In this cohort of unselected patients with ESRD undergoing revascularisation, the 1-year outcome was better for CABG in patients with and without AMI. The 30-day mortality was higher in non-AMI patients with CABG reflecting an early hazard with surgery. In cases where the patient's characteristics and risk profile make it difficult to decide on a revascularisation strategy, CABG could be the preferred option.
Regulation of intraocular pressure by soluble and membrane guanylate cyclases and their role in glaucoma

Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy characterized by visual field defects that ultimately lead to irreversible blindness (Alward, 2000; Anderson et al., 2006). By the year 2020, an estimated 80 million people will have glaucoma, 11 million of which will be bilaterally blind. Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common type of glaucoma. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is currently the only risk factor amenable to treatment. How IOP is regulated and can be modulated remains a topic of active investigation. Available therapies, mostly geared toward lowering IOP, offer incomplete protection, and POAG often goes undetected until irreparable damage has been done, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic approaches, drug targets, and biomarkers (Heijl et al., 2002; Quigley, 2011). In this review, the role of soluble (nitric oxide (NO)-activated) and membrane-bound, natriuretic peptide (NP)-activated guanylate cyclases that generate the secondary signaling molecule cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the regulation of IOP and in the pathophysiology of POAG will be discussed.
Cessation of Drug Use: Impact of Time in Treatment

Abstract Many studies have found that the longer a drug user remains in treatment, the more positive the outcome. The majority of studies on the effects of time in treatment have followed subjects from the time they enter treatment. The subjects of the present study are injection drug users and crack users who were out of treatment at the time of their recruitment to the study. Between the initial and six-month follow-up interviews, some chose to enroll in drug treatment. The more time a subject spent in treatment during the follow-up period, the more likely it was that s/he was not using heroin or cocaine at follow-up (OR=.51; 95% C.I., .39–.67; p<.00l). Unlike the results of some prior studies, positive effects of time in treatment were found even when time in treatment was less than 90 days. The findings of the present study strongly suggest that treatment is beneficial even for those who remain for less than 90 days. Those who provide treatment services to drug users should attempt to maintain contact with dropouts, and support their return to treatment.
Predicting Residential Treatment Outcomes for Emotionally and Behaviorally Disordered Youth: The Role of Pretreatment Factors

This study examined outcomes with 170 children and youth admitted to residential treatment with complex mental health problems. Overall, outcomes at 2 years post-treatment was predicted by children and youth's behavioral pretreatment status reflected in lower internalizing and externalizing behavior at admission. These findings recognize a cluster of variables upon admission that are differentially predictive of specific outcomes. Higher school participation/achievement and an absence of witnessing interparental abuse predicted educational status. Family status was predicted at admission by higher family functioning, being younger in the family, and children and youth who had poor community behavior. The results are discussed as they relate to pretreatment screening and the need to evaluate service outcomes.
Discovering place and manner features—What can be learned from acoustic and articulatory data?

Theories of phonological acquisition often assume that features are innate and universal, and establishing distinctive features requires the availability of minimal pairs. In this study, we explore an inductive approach to feature discovery without resorting to minimal pairs. Our basic assumption is that learners have access to a wide variety of phonetic information, and so feature induction can proceed through recursive clustering of the data. To test our hypothesis, we used as our data acoustic and articulatory measurements made simultaneously from a set of CVC syllables. The articulatory data are obtained with ultrasound imaging, and the vocal tract is characterized by a vector of cross distances from the tongue body to a reconstructed palate. The raw articulatory data are then mapped to a lower dimensional space using principle components, on which clustering is carried out. Experiments using acoustic and articulatory data suggest that these two sources of information lead to the discovery of place an.
Lethal Injection for Execution: Chemical Asphyxiation?

Background Lethal injection for execution was conceived as a comparatively humane alternative to electrocution or cyanide gas. The current protocols are based on one improvised by a medical examiner and an anesthesiologist in Oklahoma and are practiced on an ad hoc basis at the discretion of prison personnel. Each drug used, the ultrashort-acting barbiturate thiopental, the neuromuscular blocker pancuronium bromide, and the electrolyte potassium chloride, was expected to be lethal alone, while the combination was intended to produce anesthesia then death due to respiratory and cardiac arrest. We sought to determine whether the current drug regimen results in death in the manner intended. Methods and Findings We analyzed data from two US states that release information on executions, North Carolina and California, as well as the published clinical, laboratory, and veterinary animal experience. Execution outcomes from North Carolina and California together with interspecies dosage scaling of thiopental effects suggest that in the current practice of lethal injection, thiopental might not be fatal and might be insufficient to induce surgical anesthesia for the duration of the execution. Furthermore, evidence from North Carolina, California, and Virginia indicates that potassium chloride in lethal injection does not reliably induce cardiac arrest. Conclusions We were able to analyze only a limited number of executions. However, our findings suggest that current lethal injection protocols may not reliably effect death through the mechanisms intended, indicating a failure of design and implementation. If thiopental and potassium chloride fail to cause anesthesia and cardiac arrest, potentially aware inmates could die through pancuronium-induced asphyxiation. Thus the conventional view of lethal injection leading to an invariably peaceful and painless death is questionable.
System of Systems - the meaning of of

We present distinguishing characteristics (i.e. autonomy, belonging, connectivity, diversity, and emergence), that can help us to recognize or to realize a System of Systems (SoS). The principle differentiation that we make between a thing being either a `system' or a SoS focuses on the nature of a system's composition. We will distinctly define this set of distinguishing characteristics which will include a set of cross references from our literature research where we believe others are articulating our chosen differentiating characteristics. We conclude by summarizing the difference in these terms in a fundamental sense, one that impacts their structure, behavior and realization, and the distinction comes from the manner in which parts and relationships are gathered together and therefore in the nature of the emergent whole
P-MTI: Physical-Layer Missing Tag Identification via Compressive Sensing

Radio frequency identification (RFID) systems are emerging platforms that support a variety of pervasive applications. RFID tags can be used to label items and enable item-level monitoring. The problem of identifying missing tags in RFID systems has attracted wide attention due to its practical importance (e.g., anti-theft). This paper presents P-MTI: a Physical-layer Missing Tag Identification scheme that effectively makes use of the lower-layer information and dramatically improves operational efficiency. Unlike conventional approaches, P-MTI looks into the aggregated tag responses instead of focusing on individual tag responses and extracts useful information from physical-layer collisions. P-MTI leverages the sparsity of missing tag events and reconstructs tag responses through compressive sensing. We prototype P-MTI using the USRP software defined radio and Intel WISP platform. We also evaluate the performance of P-MTI with extensive simulations and compare to previous approaches. The experiment results show the promising performance of P-MTI in identification accuracy, time efficiency, as well as robustness over noisy channels.