Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Response and prediction of response to recombinant human erythropoietin in patients with solid tumors and platinum-associated anemia

Objective. Anemia is commonly observed in tumor patients and may be worsened by the concomitant administration of chemotherapy with platinum. Recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) is able to improve the chemotherapy-associated anemia and the quality of life in patients with solid tumors. The most effective dose, route, and frequency of administration of rhEPO in anemic cancer patients has not yet been determined. The purpose of this review is to describe the results obtained up to now concerning the response and prediction of response to rhEPO in anemic patients with solid tumors undergoing platinum-based chemotherapy. In particular, the renal function conditions in this patient group were examined. Data sources. The literature was reviewed through a MEDLINE search covering 1987 to 1997. Relevant articles were additionally obtained by the systematic examination of article references. We searched the following terms: rhEPO, tumor, anemia, cisplatin, carboplatin, and renal failure. Study Selection. The current literature was reviewed with regard to both the pathophysiology of platinum-induced anemia and the clinical use, indications, and dosage of rhEPO in anemic tumor patients undergoing platinum therapy. Particular attention was directed to the prediction criteria of this drug. Conclusions. The rhEPO response rates in patients with solid tumors and platinum-associated anemia vary widely in the current literature and range from 36% to 82%. Unfortunately, no strong predictor of response can be recommended at the present time. Clinical studies support findings concerning a reduction in renal function parameters and a blunted erythropoietin response in patients with platinum-induced anemia. It is possible that a baseline serum erythropoietin concentration in conjunction with the serum creatinine concentration or the creatinine clearance value can serve as a prognostic indicator for rhEPO therapy response in this patient group.
A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials of Animal-Assisted Therapy on Psychosocial Outcomes

ABSTRACT The use of animal-assisted interventions (aaIs) to achieve psychological benefits has expanded rapidly over the last few years. However, this is a vastly under-researched area, and the research to date has been largely descriptive, in the form of case studies, or has used only small groups of participants with no control condition. Remarkably few studies have utilized gold standard randomized controlled designs. The aim of the present review was to examine the current state of the literature in regard to only randomized controlled trials (RCts) examining the psychosocial benefits of aaIs, which is a necessary step in order to move the field forward. A search of relevant databases was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and meta-analyses (PRISma) guidelines. A total of 66,180 articles were identified at the outset; this was reduced to eight articles (involving 7 studies), following the removal of duplicates (39,377), unrelated titles (26,525), and those that did not meet inclusion criteria (270). Findings from the present review suggest that aaIs may be of benefit to a wide range of individuals, including children with autism, and adults with psychological disorders, including schizophrenia. However, further research using well-designed RCts is required to more definitively explore what specific types of aaI are beneficial for specific populations. Recommendations for future research are provided.
The impact of transitions on user experience in virtual reality

In recent years, Virtual Reality (VR) applications have become widely available. An increase in popular interest raises questions about the use of the new medium for communication. While there is a wide variety of literature regarding scene transitions in films, novels and computer games, transitions in VR are not yet widely understood. As a medium that requires a high level of immersion [2], transitions are a desirable tool. This poster delineates an experiment studying the impact of transitions on user experience of presence in VR.
Classification of Segmented Regions in Brightfield Microscope Images

The subcellular localisation of proteins in living cells is an important step to determine their function. A common method is the evaluation of fluorescence images. The position of marked proteins, visible as bright spots, enables conclusions concerning their function. In order to determine the subcellular localisation, it is crucial to know the exact positions of the considered cells within an image. These are provided by the segmentation of a corresponding brightfield microscope image. As the resulting segments do not exclusively comprise cells, they have to be classified. Therefore, we propose an approach for the classification of the resulting segments in 'cells' and 'non-cells', which is an essential step of the automatic recognition of cells and thus of the automatic subcellular localisation of proteins in living cells
Histology and Histometric Anatomy of the Male Reproductive System of Bat (Eidolon helvum)

The male reproductive system of fruit bat (Eidolon helvum) was studied histologically using light microscope. Thirty males (17 adults and 13 juveniles) were captured using net, weighed, aged using relative ossification of the wing bone, and dissected and reproductive tissue was processed for histomorphometry. On the basis of histological sections, the structures of a pair of testis containing the seminiferous tubules of adults were compacted in organization with spermatogenic cells. The epididymis has a thinner muscular region than the vas deferens with longitudinal folds on the mucosal lining. Two portions were observed in the prostate gland, while seminal vesicle has numerous trabeculae and bulbourethral gland was observed to have multiacini. There was increase in thickness of muscular region, epithelial height, and luminal diameter of epididymis and vas deferens between adults and juveniles. This work has documented the histology of the male reproductive system in bats, and ultrastructure and histochemistry are recommended for further insight into the reproductive biology.
Neonatal intensive care outcomes and resource utilisation of infants born <26 weeks in the former Trent region: 2001–2003 compared with 1991–1993

Objectives To provide survival data and rates of severe disability at 2 years of corrected age in infants born prior to 26 weeks' gestation in 2001–2003 and to compare these outcomes with an earlier cohort from 1991 to 1993. Design Population-based prospective cohort study. Setting Former Trent region of UK covering a population of approximately five million and around 55 000 births per annum. Participants The authors identified a 3-year cohort of infants born before 26 weeks' gestation between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2003 from The Neonatal Survey (TNS). Questionnaires based on the Oxford minimum dataset were completed. Main outcome measures Survival, service use and disability levels were compared between the 2001– 2003 cohort and the cohort from 1991 to 1993. Results In 2001–2003, 0%, 18% and 35% of live born babies were alive at 2 years without any evidence of severe disability at 23, 24 and 25 weeks' gestation, respectively. Overall, of those children admitted to neonatal care, the proportion with no evidence of severe disability at 2 years corrected age improved from 14.5% in 1991–1993 to 26.5% in 2001–2003. There was an increase in the proportion of children with at least one severe disability, out of total admissions to neonatal unit (8% vs 17%) and of those assessed at 2 years (35% vs 39%). Conclusions This study has shown an improvement in survival to discharge in babies admitted for neonatal care. However, this improved survival has been associated with an increase in the proportion of children with at least one severe disability at a corrected age of 2 years.
An assessment of the risk factors for pulmonary tuberculosis among adult patients suffering from human immunodeficiency virus attending the Wellness Clinic at Themba Hospital

Background: In South Africa, the data about risk factors for pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) is limited. Therefore, the assessment of risk factors for PTB is an important step to identify which risk factors are unique in every specific population context and in this way gain a better understanding of them. The aim of this research was to assess contributory risk factors for PTB among adult patients suffering from Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attending the Wellness Clinic at Themba Hospital. Method: A cross sectional descriptive design was employed. A total of 300 participants were interviewed using a structured questionnaire to collect data on socio-demographic information, behavioural factors and medical history of patients in the research. Data were analysed using Stata Release 11 software. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine factors associated with PTB. Results: The results of this investigation showed that being of single marital status (OR = 1.96; 95% CI = 1.01–3.79), moderate/heavy drinkers (OR = 3.46; 95% CI = 1.56–7.69) and living in a dusty outdoor environment (OR = 2.05; 95% CI = 1.16–3.61) were statistically associated with pulmonary tuberculosis for the study participants in multivariable logistic regression models. Conclusion: Single marital status, dusty outdoor environment and moderate/heavy drinkers were strongly associated with an increased risk of PTB among HIV positive patients. Pulmonary tuberculosis control and prevention strategies among HIV positive patients should be focused on reducing or limiting the impact of these risk factors.
The spectrum of associated brain lesions in cerebral sinovenous thrombosis: relation to gestational age and outcome

Objective To describe different patterns of associated brain lesions in preterm and full-term infants with cerebral sinovenous thrombosis (CSVT) and to assess whether these different patterns are related to gestational age at onset. Design Magnetic resonance scans of all neonates (six preterm, 24 full term) with suspected CSVT, collected over a 7-year period in two neonatal intensive care units, were evaluated to assess patterns of associated brain lesions. Comparisons between the two gestational age groups were made. Results CSVT was confirmed on magnetic resonance venography in 26 of 30 neonates (six preterm, 20≥36 weeks' gestational age). The straight (85%) and superior sagittal (65%) sinus were most often affected. Several sinuses were involved in 81% of infants. White matter damage affecting the entire periventricular white matter was seen in five of six preterm infants. Intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) was common in both groups (4/6 preterm, 16/20 full term). Frontal punctate white matter lesions with restricted diffusion (15/20) and thalamic haemorrhage associated with IVH (11/20) were the most frequent lesions in full-term infants. Focal arterial infarction was present in four of 20 full-term infants. Six infants died in the neonatal period (four preterm, two full term). Follow-up MRIs at 3 months in all survivors showed evolution of the lesions with frontal atrophy in 13 of 20 (12 full term) and delayed myelination in seven of 20 (six full term). Conclusions Preterm and full-term neonates show different patterns of associated brain lesions. Extensive white matter damage is the predominant pattern of injury in the preterm infant, while an IVH associated with a thalamic haemorrhage and punctate white matter lesions are more common in the full-term infant.
Changes in primary care prescribing patterns for paediatric asthma: a prescribing database analysis

Background Little is known about the impact of British asthma management guideline revisions. Concerns about the use of high dose inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in children have resulted in the promotion of add-on therapy. Aims To assess prescribing patterns of asthma medication in children in the primary care setting. Methods Retrospective observational study of asthma prescribing in children aged 0-18 years using primary care database from 2001 to 2006. Results The proportion of children prescribed oral corticosteroids increased significantly (from 6% in 2001-2002 to 16% in 2005-2006, p<0.001), while the proportion of children prescribed an ICS dose of >400 mcg decreased from 16.2% to 11.7% (P<0.001). The proportion of children prescribed an add-on therapy and an ICS dose >400 µg, increased from 38.8 % in 2001-2002 to 61.2% in 2005-2006 (p<0.001). Conclusions Although adherence with asthma management guidelines is not optimal, this study has identified improved adherence in primary care.
Sitting posture analysis by pressure sensors

It has been promising to provide personalized services for improving our living environment in support of information technologies. Sitting is one of the natural actions in our daily life. We focus on sitting behavior as a cue for providing such services. We used a pressure sensor seat on a chair for identifying sitting postures. In the experiments, we classified nine postures, including leaning forward / backward / right / left and legs crossed. We obtained classification rates of 98.9% when the sitting person was known and 93.9% when the person was not known.
Level of Knowledge and Understanding of Informed Consent amongst the Training Grade Group Orthodontists in England, Wales and Northern Ireland

Objective To assess the level of knowledge and understanding of informed consent in UK orthodontic trainees. Design and setting A cross-sectional, written questionnaire-based study. Setting Hospital orthodontic departments in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Subjects and method A one page questionnaire which covered a range of legal issues pertinent to informed consent was circulated to 207 members of the Training Grades Group (TGG) of the British Orthodontic Society (BOS). The questionnaire consisted of four open questions with 11 responses, which the investigators considered to be ideal, seven closed questions requiring yes/no responses and one question requiring a yes/no response followed by two open responses. Following the initial circulation, a second posting to non-responders was conducted. Results The response rate was 61% (N = 126). The mean number of complete answers to the 21 questions was 13 (62%; median 13; mode 14). There were a low number of complete responses to specific questions in the following areas – explanations patients need from clinicians prior to obtaining consent; how to fully judge if a patient is capable of consenting; how to manage a patient incapable of giving consent; the legal status of fathers consenting on behalf of their children; whether consent forms have to be re-signed if the start of treatment is delayed by six months or more and responsibility for obtaining consent for dental treatment under general anaesthesia. Conclusions There was a disappointingly high proportion of incomplete answers to questions testing the knowledge and understanding of the law as it pertains to informed consent exists amongst members of the TGG of BOS.
Extraction of Four Premolars in Black Patients with Bi-protrusion: Aesthetic Perceptions of Professionals and Lay People

Objective To assess the aesthetic perceptions and expectations regarding the results of orthodontic treatment for alterations in the profile of Black patients with bi-protrusion through the extraction of four premolars and maximal anchorage. Design Cross-sectional. Setting Offices of plastic surgeons and orthodontists in the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Subjects and methods 152 individuals participated in the study and were divided into four groups: Group 1, 38 orthodontists; Group 2, 38 plastic surgeons; Group 3, 38 White laypersons; and Group 4, 38 Black laypersons. The patient sample was composed of six Black individuals (three males and three females) with varying degrees of bi-protrusion. Each participant was shown altered photographs of the profile of the final result of treatment, simulating three different bi-protrusion reduction options (2, 4 and 6 mm), which were united with the original initial and final photographs. Outcomes Aesthetic preferences and expectations regarding the true result of treatment. Data analysis The chi-square test for linear trend with Bonferroni correction (á = P<0·008). Results The aesthetic preference for the majority of participants was for a straighter profile than those provided by the orthodontic treatment. Moreover, the actual profile resulting from the orthodontic treatment was correctly identified by just 22% of the Black laypersons, 22% of the White laypersons, 21% of the orthodontists and 17% of the plastic surgeons. There were significant differences between groups. Conclusions This study supports the view that society perceives straight profiles as aesthetically more pleasing in comparison to protruding or slightly protruding profiles.
Deformation and Warping of the Bracket Slot in Select Self-Ligating Orthodontic Brackets Due to an Applied Third Order Torque

Objective To measure the plastic deformation of three different self-ligated brackets as a result of third order torque by analysing slot dimensions and determine its impact on torque play. Methods Three different self-ligating orthodontic brackets (0·022-inch slot) were investigated: Damon Q®, In-Ovation R®, and Speed® (30 per group). A digital SLR camera coupled to a microscope was used to capture images of the slot profile of each bracket before and after torquing. Each bracket was torqued to 63° in the same manner using a 0·019×0·025-inch SS wire. Results The mean change in slot height as measured at the top of the slot was 0·013 mm (SD 0·020), 0·007 mm (SD 0·010) and 0·070 mm (SD 0·03) for Damon Q®, In-Ovation R® and Speed®, respectively. Slot taper increased 0·75° (SD 0·96), 0·41° (SD 1·05) and 9·30° (SD 4·24), respectively. Increase in torque play was calculated to be 0·9, 0·6 and 7·7° respectively, as calculated using the novel formula presented in this study. Conclusions Damon Q® and In-Ovation R® maintain high levels of linearity in the shape of the slot walls and experience small, but significant amounts of plastic deformation that are physically insignificant. Speed® demonstrates the most plastic deformation with visually identifiable warping in the bracket slot.
Decomposition of Dynamic Textures Using Morphological Component Analysis: A New Adaptative Strategy

The research context of this work is dynamic texture analysis and characterization. Many dynamic textures can be modeled as a large scale propagating wave and local oscillating phenomena. The Morphological Component Analysis algorithm is used to retrieve these components using a well chosen dictionary. We define a new strategy for adaptive thresholding in the Morphological Component Analysis framework, which greatly reduces the computation time when applied on videos. Tests on synthetic and real image sequences illustrate the efficiency of the proposed method and future prospects are finally exposed.
The Effect of Cigarette Smoking on Blood Pressure and Hypertension

Cigarette smoking and hypertension are significant cardiovascular risk factors. The effect of cigarettes on blood pressure and the development of hypertension are unclear. Studies on the subject report contradictory results. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of cigarette smoking on blood pressure and hypertension. Our study population consisted of 712 patients with a mean age of 51.2±15.1 years, 44% of them were male and 56% of them were female. Thirty-six percent of patients were smokers, 9% of them were ever smoked and stopped smoking or exsmoker and 55% of them were nonsmoker. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were lowest in the smokers, higher among ex-smokers compared to smokers and highest in the non-smokers (P<0.001). The mean systolic and diastolic blood pressures were 119/74 mmHg in the smokers, 134/81 mmHg in the ex-smokers and 150/88 mmHg in the nonsmokers. Prevalence of hypertension did not change by smoking status. A significant variation was determined, at 15% in smokers, 33% in ex-smokers and 55% in non-smokers (P<0.001). In conclusion, blood pressures and prevalence of hypertension were significantly low in smokers in this study. Despite the limitless harm it has, cigarette smoking exhibits a lowering effect in blood pressure, although the mechanism involved is unclear. Keywords : Blood pressure; cigarettes; hypertension
Efficacy of Resin-Modified Glass Ionomer Cement Varnish in the Prevention of White Spot Lesions during Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment: A Split-Mouth Study

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of resin-modified glass ionomer cement varnish in the prevention of white spot lesions (WSLs) during early orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances. Materials and methods A total of 480 maxillary and mandibular anterior teeth were studied. The varnish was applied to either the right or left side of the maxillary or mandibular anterior teeth on a random basis. For each experimental quadrant in each patient, the varnish was applied to the labial surfaces of incisors and canines, from the gingival surface of the bracket to the free gingival margin. White spot lesions were recorded on a standard pro forma before (T0) and approximately 6 months following varnish application (T1) by DIAGNOdent and direct visual inspection. Results The DIAGNOdent score at T1 was increased significantly in the control maxillary lateral and mandibular central (P < 0·05), and lateral incisors (P < 0·01). The visual scores in experimental maxillary lateral incisors and mandibular canines were decreased significantly at T1 (P < 0·05). The sidewise post-treatment (T1) comparisons of control and experimental teeth for visual scores revealed significant decreases for maxillary lateral incisors, maxillary canines and mandibular canines (P < 0·05). Conclusion Application of resin-modified glass ionomer cement varnish had a favourable effect in the prevention of WSLs during comprehensive orthodontic treatment.