Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Statistical Assessment of Demographic Bonus towards Poverty Alleviation

The shift of birth and death rates from high to low level in any population is referred as demographic transition. Mechanically, the transition of a society creates more working member of its own population commonly called demographic bonus. This article empirically explores the realistic soundness of demographic bonus in reducing the poverty level of the society. Three contrasting regions namely Eastern Asia, Central America and Oceania were selected for analytical purposes. The findings indicate that Eastern Asia and Oceania are currently facing the end of their transition whereas the Central America is lagged behind in transition. Central America due to last runner in transition race is the sustained recipient of its own demographic bonus by the year 2030. On the basis of three mechanisms namely: labour supply, savings and human capital, the Eastern Asian region is found to be successful beneficiary of its own demographic gift which concludes that many million people have escaped from poverty. Under the right policy environment on the above three mechanisms, Eastern Asia experience indicates the realistic contribution of demographic bonus to reduce poverty.
Surgical treatment of anorectal complications in Crohn's disease.

BACKGROUND The purpose of our study was to elucidate features, surgical procedures, and long-term results in patients with anorectal complications of Crohn's disease. METHODS Physical findings, surgical treatment, and long-term outcome were recorded prospectively for 224 patients who had anorectal complications of Crohn's disease between October 1984 and May 1999. RESULTS Presenting complications included abscess (n = 36), fistula-in-ano (n = 51), rectovaginal fistula (n = 20), anal stenosis (n = 40), anal incontinence (n = 11), or a combination of features (n = 66). Twenty-four patients did not undergo surgical treatment; the remaining 200 patients underwent 284 procedures. Ultimately, 139 patients (62%) retained anorectal function; reasons for proctectomy in the remaining 85 patients included disease (n = 66), extensive fistular disease (n = 15), fecal incontinence (n = 2), and tight anal stenosis (n = 1). Patients with rectal disease had a significantly higher rate of proctectomy than patients with rectal sparing (77.6% vs. 13.6%, respectively, P<.0001). In the absence of rectal involvement, patients with multiple complications had a significantly higher rate of proctectomy than patients with single complications (23% vs. 10%, P<.05). CONCLUSIONS A wide spectrum of surgical techniques is required for the management of the diverse anorectal complications of Crohn's disease. Complete healing and control of sepsis can be achieved in the majority of patients. Active rectal disease and multiple complications significantly increase the need for proctectomy.
Intestinal edema decreases intestinal contractile activity via decreased myosin light chain phosphorylation

Objective:The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of interstitial edema on intestinal contractile activity. Design:Randomized animal study. Setting:University laboratory. Subjects:Male Sprague–Dawley rats. Intervention:Intestinal edema was induced in rats by a combination of fluid infusion and mesenteric venous hypertension. Rats were divided into four groups: CONTROL, sham; RESUS, saline infusion only; RESUS+VH, saline infusion and venous hypertension; and VH, venous hypertension only. Edema development, basal contractile activity, maximum agonist-induced contractile response (measured as total force generation during the first 2 mins after carbachol treatment), and myosin light chain phosphorylation were measured in the distal small intestine. Measurements and Main Results:The amount of interstitial fluid, indicated by the wet-to-dry ratio, increased significantly in both the RESUS and RESUS+VH groups as early as 30 mins after surgery compared with the CONTROL group. Whereas the tissue fluid remained significantly elevated in the RESUS+VH group up to 6 hrs after surgery, the RESUS group wet-to-dry ratios returned to CONTROL group levels by 2 hrs after surgery. Basal contractile activity was significantly less in the RESUS+VH group compared with either the RESUS group or the CONTROL group 6 hrs after surgery. Maximum contractile response decreased significantly in the RESUS+VH group compared with the RESUS group. Basal contractile activity and maximum contractile response did not change significantly in the VH group compared with the CONTROL group. The phosphorylated fraction of myosin light chain was significantly lower in the RESUS+VH group compared with the CONTROL group at 0.5, 2, and 6 hrs after surgery. Conclusion:We conclude that edema decreases myosin light chain phosphorylation, leading to decreased intestinal contractile activity.
Cyberbullying and its correlation to traditional bullying, gender and frequent and risky usage of internet-mediated communication tools

This study examined the relationships between cyber and traditional bullying experiences regarding gender differences. Also, the contributions of frequent and risky usage of internet to cyberbullying experiences were examined. The participants were 276 adolescents (123 females, 151 males and 2 unknown) ranging in age from 14 to 18 years. The results revealed that 32 percent of the students were victims of both cyber and traditional bullying, while 26 percent of the students bullied others in both cyber and physical environments. Compared to female students, male students were more likely to be bullies and victims in both physical and cyber-environments.The multivariate statistical analysis indicated that cyber and traditional bullying were related for male students but not for female students. Moreover, the multiple regression analysis revealed that both frequent and risky usage of internet account for a significant variance of cyberbullying but their contributions differ based on genders.
The significance of Candida in the human respiratory tract: our evolving understanding

Candida is an opportunistic pathogen and the most commonly isolated fungal genus in humans. Though Candida is often detected in respiratory specimens from humans with and without lung disease, its significance remains undetermined. While historically considered a commensal organism with low virulence potential, the status of Candida as an innocent bystander has recently been called into question by both clinical observations and animal experimentation. We here review what is currently known and yet to be determined about the clinical, microbiological and pathophysiological significance of the detection of Candida spp. in the human respiratory tract.
Temporal modulation perimetry: the effects of aging and eccentricity on sensitivity in normals.

PURPOSE Temporal modulation perimetry (TMP) is a new test procedure designed to measure sensitivity to sinusoidal flickering stimuli throughout the central 27 degrees visual field. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effect of age and visual field eccentricity on temporal modulation sensitivity. METHOD In its present form, TMP is used to determine modulation sensitivity for three temporal frequencies (2, 8, and 16 Hz) at 45 visual field locations. Both eyes of 43 normal observers between 20 and 75 years of age were examined. RESULTS Our results indicate that sensitivity to all temporal frequencies tested showed a decline with age, particularly in the peripheral visual field. Furthermore, the age-related sensitivity loss was more pronounced for 16 Hz than for 2 or 8 Hz. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate an age-related loss in temporal modulation sensitivity in the peripheral visual field. They also provide a baseline comparison standard for evaluation of clinical patient populations.
Strategies for Facilitating Knowledge Adoption: How Researchers can Better Influence Education Policy

This paper examines how researchers can improve their chances of influencing education policy. It presents the findings of a literature review and interviews with educational researchers and policy-makers in England and Wales. The projects’ aims were: i) to understand the actions researchers should undertake in order to successfully influence policy; ii) to augment existing work by developing a suite of empirically inspired knowledge adoption strategies specifically for researchers. The paper concludes by presenting four strategy types that will aid researchers to influence policy debates: i) research outputs which meet policy-makers’ specific requirements from research (‘policy ready’ strategies); ii) the effective communication of research (‘promotional’ strategies); iii) ‘traditional’ academic behaviour (‘traditional’ strategies); iv) academics shifting their relative position with regards to the how ‘privileged’ they are by policy- makers, or how policy-makers perceive the policy context to which their research pertains (‘contextual’ strategies).
Option-Implied Equity Premium Predictions via Entropic Tilting

We propose a new method to improve density forecasts of the equity premium us- ing information from options markets. We tilt the predictive densities from standard econometric models suggested in the stock return predictability literature towards the second moment of the risk-neutral distribution implied by options prices. In so do- ing, we use a simple regression-based approach to remove the variance risk premium. By combining the backward-looking information contained in the econometric models with the forward-looking information from the options prices, tilting yields sharper predictive densities. Using density forecasts of the U.S. equity premium in Rapach and Zhou (2012), we nd that tilting leads to more accurate predictions, both in terms of statistical and economic performance.
Metal artifact reduction (MAR) based on two-compartment physical modeling: evaluation in patients with hip implants

Background Artifacts from metallic implants can hinder image interpretation in computed tomography (CT). Image quality can be improved using metal artifact reduction (MAR) techniques. Purpose To evaluate the impact of a MAR algorithm on image quality of CT examinations in comparison to filtered back projection (FBP) in patients with hip prostheses. Material and Methods Twenty-two patients with 25 hip prostheses who underwent clinical abdominopelvic CT on a 64-row CT were included in this retrospective study. Axial images were reconstructed with FBP and five increasing MAR levels (M30–34). Objective artifact strength (OAS) (SIart-SInorm) was assessed by region of interest (ROI) measurements in position of the strongest artifact (SIart) and in an osseous structure without artifact (SInorm) (in Hounsfield units [HU]). Two independent readers evaluated subjective image quality regarding metallic hardware, delineation of bone, adjacent muscle, and pelvic organs on a 5-point scale (1, non-diagnostic; 5, excellent image quality). Artifacts in the near field, far field, and newly induced artifacts due to the MAR technique were analyzed. Results OAS values were: M34: 243.8 ± 155.4 HU; M33: 294.3 ± 197.8 HU; M32: 340.5 ± 210.1 HU; M31: 393.6 ± 225.2 HU; M30: 446.8 ± 224.2 HU and FBP: 528.9 ± 227.7 HU. OAS values were significantly lower for M32–34 compared to FBP (P < 0.01). For overall subjective image quality, results were: FBP, 2.0 ± 0.2; M30, 2.3 ± 0.8; M31, 2.6 ± 0.5; M32, 3.0 ± 0.6; M33, 3.5 ± 0.6; and M34, 3.8 ± 0.4 (P < 0.001 for M30–M34 vs. FBP, respectively). Increasing MAR levels resulted in new artifacts in 17% of reconstructions. Conclusion The investigated MAR algorithm led to a significant reduction of artifacts from metallic hip implants. The highest MAR level provided the least severe artifacts and the best overall image quality.
Endoplasmic Reticulum-Associated Degradation of Cytochrome P450 CYP3A4 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae: Further Characterization of Cellular Participants and Structural Determinants

The monotopic, endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-anchored cytochromes P450 (P450s) undergo variable proteolytic turnover. CYP3A4, the dominant human liver drug-metabolizing enzyme, is degraded via a ubiquitin (Ub)-dependent 26S proteasomal pathway after heterologous expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This turnover involves the Ub-conjugating enzyme Ubc7p and the 19S proteasomal subunit Hrd2p but is independent of Hrd1p/Hrd3p, a major Ub-ligase (E3) involved in ER protein degradation. We now show that CYP3A4 ERAD also involves the Ubc7p-ER anchor Cue1p, because CYP3A4 is significantly stabilized at the stationary growth phase in Cue1p-deficient yeast. To determine whether the other major Ub-ligase Doa10p or Rsp5p involved in ER protein degradation functions in CYP3A4 ERAD, wild type and Doa10p- or Rsp5p-deficient yeast strains were also similarly examined. No appreciable CYP3A4 stabilization was detected in either Doa10p- or Rsp5p-deficient yeast, thereby excluding these E3s and revealing that CYP3A4 ERAD involves a novel or yet to be identified E3. Similar studies also revealed that the Cdc48p-Ufd1p-Hrd4p complex, responsible for the translocation of polyubiquitinated ER proteins was critical for CYP3A4 ERAD. We previously reported that grafting of the C-terminal (CT) CYP3A4 heptapeptide onto the CYP2B1 C terminus switched its proteolytic susceptibility from predominantly vacuolar to proteasomal degradation. To determine the relevance of this CT heptapeptide to CYP3A4 ERAD, CYP3A4 degradation after CT heptapeptide-deletion (CYP3A4ΔCT) was similarly examined in yeast. These findings revealed that CYP3A4ΔCT was also degraded by Ubc7p-26S proteasomal pathway, thereby indicating that this CT heptapeptide is not critical for CYP3A4 proteasomal degradation. Thus, unlike CYP2B1, CYP3A4 harbors additional/multiple structural degrons for its recruitment into the Ubproteasomal pathway.
Generalized phase-space kinetic and diffusion equations for classical and dispersive transport

We formulate and solve a physically-based, phase space kinetic equation for transport in the presence of trapping. Trapping is incorporated through a waiting time distribution function. From the phase-space analysis, we obtain a generalized diffusion equation in configuration space. We analyse the impact of the waiting time distribution, and give examples that lead to dispersive or non-dispersive transport. With an appropriate choice of the waiting time distribution, our model is related to fractional diffusion in the sense that fractional equations can be obtained in the limit of long times. Finally, we demonstrate the application of this theory to disordered semiconductors.
Changes in Blood Flow of Anterior and Middle Cerebral Arteries Following Carotid Endarterectomy: A Transcranial Doppler Study

Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes in blood flow of anterior and middle cerebral arteries following carotid endarterectomy, using transcranial Doppler (TCD) flow studies. Patients and methods: This study included 100 patients (72 men, mean age 65 years) who underwent carotid endarterectomy because of high-grade carotid stenosis or symptoms of ischemic stroke. Endarterectomy was performed by a distal shunt between the common carotid and internal carotid arteries. Blood flow in the anterior and middle cerebral arteries was assessed by TCD preoperatively and also in the postoperative period (1st and 4th day; 1st, 6th, and 12th month). Collateral circulation in the Willis circle was evaluated by common carotid compression. Results: Patients with bilateral carotid stenosis ≥70% exhibited a significantly increased flow velocity in the ipsilateral anterior cerebral artery (ACA), middle cerebral artery (MCA), and in the contralateral ACA. Patients with entirely occluded contralateral internal carotid artery showed the most pronounced changes in cerebral hemodynamics. Blood flow velocities returned to the preoperative values at 1 to 12 months following endarterectomy. Hyperperfusion syndrome was manifested in 14 patients, who exhibited significantly higher flow velocities in the ipsilateral MCA compared with asymptomatic patients. Conclusions: A transient bilateral increase of blood flow velocity in the anterior part of the Willis circle may often occur in the immediate postoperative period following carotid endarterectomy. Although its clinical significance is not entirely understood, this increase may be associated with cerebral hyperperfusion syndrome.
Early Results for Below-Knee Bypasses Using Distaflo

In patients who require lower extremity revascularization, prosthetic graft is a reasonable alternative in the absence of a suitable autologous vein conduit. However, prosthetic bypass grafts have limited patency, especially for infrageniculate reconstruction. Polytetrafluoroethylene grafts were geometrically modified at the distal end to increase their patency. The authors reviewed their experience with the Distaflo graft in patients who required lower extremity below-knee popliteal and tibial bypasses when no suitable autologous vein conduit was available. Chart review was conducted of the 57 patients who underwent 60 lower extremity bypasses over a 3-year period between June 2003 and April 2006. Twenty-four revascularizations were constructed to the tibial outflow sites, whereas the remaining grafts were placed to the below-knee (28) and above-knee (8) popliteal artery, respectively. Study endpoints were primary, assisted primary, secondary patency, and limb salvage at the time of follow-up. Distaflo bypass was performed at the infrageniculate level in 86.7% of cases (28 below-knee popliteal, 24 tibial). Mean follow-up time was 12 months (range, 0.5-37.5 months). At 1 year, primary, assisted primary, and secondary patencies and limb salvage rates for below-knee popliteal bypasses were 83.5%, 89.5%, 94.7%, and 94.4%, respectively. Primary, assisted primary, and secondary patencies and limb salvage rates for tibial bypasses were 44.4%, 44.4%, 63.2%, and 74.9%, respectively. Distaflo precuffed graft is a good alternative conduit for below-knee popliteal and tibial lower extremity reconstructions in the absence of an autologous vein and appears to have promising early patency and limb salvage rates even when used for tibial bypasses.
The use of qualitative questionnaires in patients having and being considered for cochlear implants.

Within this study we have examined the particular hearing complaints of patients being considered for a cochlear implant and the specific benefits/shortcomings experienced by implanted patients using open-ended questionnaires. As we expected, the difficulty of hearing general conversation was the most common individual hearing complaint. However, 45% of complaints were concentrated in the 'psychosocial' category, which was significantly higher than that found among general audiological rehabilitation patients. The average number of benefits listed by patients having implants was significantly higher than that of the shortcomings. Moreover, the main benefits listed were focused on the acoustical and psychological factors, e.g. 'environmental sound awareness', 'general conversation easier' and 'feeling of self-confidence'. The main shortcomings were related to the acoustical and practical areas, e.g. hearing difficulty in noisy background, processor being cumbersome.
WISC-IV Factor Structures of Japanese Children with Borderline, or Deficient Intellectual Abilities: Testing Measurement Invariance Compared to Simulated Norm

Factor analyses of intelligence tests have been conducted with diverse clinical populations. Factor structures of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-fourth Edition (WISC-IV) in children with borderline intellectual functioning (BIF) and intellectual disability (ID) were compared to the Japanese norm by using a simulated group. Measurement invariance among simulated, borderline and disability groups was tested by multi-group analyses through structural equation modeling for manual-depended four-factor model. Results indicated that the metric invariance model was supported among the three groups. The correlation coefficients between the four index scores suggested that BIF could be partially explained as resulting from inhibiting and restraining effects among broad abilities when responding to each subtest of intelligence tests. This degrading effect might lower IQ in children having certain clinical problems. On the other hand, ID could be partially understood as a brain impairment consisting of unrelated and isolated activation of broad ability areas. It is concluded that there are differences in factor structures and mechanisms of BIF and ID.
How Effective are Intelligent Tutoring Systems in Computer Science Education?

A meta-analysis on the effectiveness of Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS) in computer science education compared the learning outcomes of ITS and non-ITS instruction. A search of the literature found 22 effect sizes (involving 1,447 participants) that met the pre-defined inclusion criteria. Although most of the ITS were used to teach programming, other topics such as database design and computer literacy were also represented. There was a significant overall effect size favoring the use of ITS. There was a significant advantage of ITS over teacher-led classroom instruction and non-ITS computer-based instruction. ITS were more effective than the instructional methods to which they were compared regardless of whether they modeled misconceptions and regardless of whether they were the primary means of instruction or were an integrated component of learning activities that included other means of instruction.
Use of an extended monitoring strategy in patients with problematic syncope. Reveal Investigators.

BACKGROUND The conventional investigation of patients who present with syncope involves short-term ECG monitoring or provocative testing with head-up tilt and electrophysiological testing. A symptom-rhythm correlation is often difficult to obtain during spontaneous syncope because of its sporadic, infrequent, and unpredictable nature. METHODS AND RESULTS We used a prolonged monitoring strategy to determine the cause of syncope in 85 patients (age, 59+/-18 years; 44 men) with recurrent undiagnosed syncope with an implantable loop recorder capable of cardiac monitoring for up to 18 months. During a mean of 10.5+/-4.0 months of follow-up, symptoms recurred in 58 patients (68%) 71+/-79 days (2.3+/-2.6 months) after implantable loop recorder insertion. An arrhythmia was detected in 42% of patients who recorded a rhythm during recurrent symptoms, with bradycardia present in 18 and tachycardia in 3. Five of the 18 bradycardic patients and 2 additional sinus rhythm patients received a clinical diagnosis of neurally mediated syncope. Patients who experienced presyncope were much less likely to record an arrhythmia during symptoms compared with recurrence of syncope (24% versus 70%, P=0.0005). There were no adverse events associated with recurrent symptoms, and there were no sudden deaths. Inability to freeze after an event occurred in 8 patients, and pocket infection occurred in 3. CONCLUSIONS The strategy of prolonged monitoring is effective and safe in patients with problematic syncope.