Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Do E-mail Alerts of New Research Increase Knowledge Translation? A “Nephrology Now” Randomized Control Trial

Purpose As the volume of medical literature increases exponentially, maintaining current clinical practice is becoming more difficult. Multiple, Internet-based journal clubs and alert services have recently emerged. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the use of the e-mail alert service, Nephrology Now, increases knowledge translation regarding current nephrology literature. Method Nephrology Now is a nonprofit, monthly e-mail alert service that highlights clinically relevant articles in nephrology. In 2007–2008, the authors randomized 1,683 subscribers into two different groups receiving select intervention articles, and then they used an online survey to assess both groups on their familiarity with the articles and their acquisition of knowledge. Results Of the randomized subscribers, 803 (47.7%) completed surveys, and the two groups had a similar number of responses (401 and 402, respectively). The authors noted no differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups. Familiarity increased as a result of the Nephrology Now alerts (0.23 ± 0.087 units on a familiarity scale; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.06–0.41; P = .007) especially in physicians (multivariate odds ratio 1.83; P = .0002). No detectable improvement in knowledge occurred (0.03 ± 0.083 units on a knowledge scale; 95% CI: −0.13 to 0.20; P = .687). Conclusions An e-mail alert service of new literature improved a component of knowledge translation—familiarity—but not knowledge acquisition in a large, randomized, international population.
Optimal operation of variable speed pumped storage hydropower plants participating in secondary regulation reserve markets

Pumped storage hydropower plants can contribute to a better integration of intermittent renewable energy and to balance generation and demand in real time by providing rapid-response generation. In order to invest in a new pumped storage plant, it is necessary to assess carefully the profitability of the project as the recovery of investment costs could be jeopardised by many factors. Apart from participating in the day-ahead market, ancillary services can also play an important role when determining the incomes. The aim of this paper is to make a preliminary comparison of pumped storage plant's market incomes with and without ability to regulate power in pumping mode through variable speed technology. A deterministic mixed-integer programming model is proposed to calculate power bids for the day-ahead and secondary regulation markets. The model considers the hourly day-ahead and secondary reserve market prices as well as usage and prices of secondary regulation-up and down energy requested by the Spanish System Operator.
The Impact of Cash Transfers on Livelihoods, Education, Health and HIV – What's the Evidence?

Cash transfers are a development intervention aimed at alleviating shocks from chronic poverty and inequality by reducing the risks and vulnerabilities associated with them. Implementation of cash transfer programmes is growing rapidly around the world, providing a body of evidence demonstrating the impact of cash transfers in many development sectors, including livelihoods, education and health. Cash transfers have also been effective in influencing positive outcomes for HIV prevention synergistically with other development sectors. Yet, programme effectiveness is greatly influenced by context, including issues such as conditionality, durability and political will. Nevertheless, the evidence strongly supports the effectiveness of cash transfers in leading to positive and multi-sectoral development outcomes, warranting greater use of such programmes.
Novel Oligosaccharide Side Chains of the Collagen-like Region of BclA, the Major Glycoprotein of the Bacillus anthracis Exosporium*

Spores of Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax, are enclosed by a prominent loose fitting layer called the exosporium. The exosporium consists of a basal layer and an external hairlike nap. The filaments of the nap are composed of a highly immunogenic glycoprotein called BclA, which has a long, central collagen-like region with multiple XXG repeats. Most of the triplet repeats are PTG, and nearly all of the triplet repeats contain a threonine residue, providing multiple potential sites for O-glycosylation. In this study, we demonstrated that two O-linked oligosaccharides, a 715-Da tetrasaccharide and a 324-Da disaccharide, are released from spore- and exosporium-associated BclA by hydrazinolysis. Each oligosaccharide is probably attached to BclA through a GalNAc linker, which was lost during oligosaccharide release. We found that multiple copies of the tetrasaccharide are linked to the collagen-like region of BclA, whereas the disaccharide may be attached outside of this region. Using NMR, mass spectrometry, and other analytical techniques, we determined that the structure of the tetrasaccharide is 2-O-methyl-4-(3-hydroxy-3-methylbutamido)-4,6-dideoxy-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1→3)-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→3)-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-l-rhamnopyranose. The previously undescribed nonreducing terminal sugar (i.e. 2-O-methyl-4-(3-hydroxy-3-methylbutamido)-4,6-dideoxy-d-glucose) was given the trivial name anthrose. Anthrose was not found in spores of either Bacillus cereus or Bacillus thuringiensis, two species that are the most phylogenetically similar to B. anthracis. Thus, anthrose may be useful for species-specific detection of B. anthracis spores or as a new target for therapeutic intervention.
How technology policy facilitates technology diffusion and improves firm capability: a dynamic survey from a network perspective

Strategic alliances have been regarded as a potent tool of technology policy for the advancement of research and development (R&D) in developing countries. However, the effectiveness of this ‘visible hand’ has not been dynamically understood as a useful means of building up firm capability. To see how strategic alliances help small-sized firms improve their competitive advantage, this research investigates a government-supported strategic alliance for technology development. Using a two-stage model from the network perspective and methodology, the results show that via a government-sponsored strategic alliance, the network factors embedded in the alliance significantly help the firm develop a competitive advantage by facilitating technology diffusion among alliance members and improved firm-level technology capability. Thus, technology policy in the form of strategic alliances appears to serve as a ‘visible hand’ that homogenously upgrades firm technology capability and diffuses technology.
To postpone or not to postpone? Examining access policy on early foreign language learning from second language acquisition and language planning and policy perspectives

Abstract This paper examines the suggestion to postpone instruction on early foreign language learning, from both second language acquisition (SLA) and language planning and policy (LPP) perspectives. Contrary to the widely held belief that SLA research on age effects can inform policymakers as to when to start instruction, this paper demonstrates that such research may not offer much to language policymaking. The paper argues that the use of a more pragmatic approach in the transdisciplinarity of SLA and LPP emphasizing research into the benefits of instruction for children should be the underpinning SLA-based rationale for early foreign language learning policies. The paper contends that collaborative work between policymakers and researchers working in LPP and/or SLA domains in an SLA-LPP consortium could help address the problems occurring in the micro-context of policy interpretation and enactment with a primary focus on input enhancement rather than postponement.
Kuwait is home: perceptions of happiness and belonging among second plus generation non-citizens in Kuwait

ABSTRACT Kuwait is an oil-rich Gulf country where temporary foreign workers and their families comprise two-thirds of the population, without access to permanent residence or citizenship. Several residents, however, stay for long durations, raising a second or third generation there. Surveys of second plus generation non-nationals were conducted among 973 high school students and 246 working persons in 2012. These surveys were analysed in order to: (i) Advance the understanding of how non-citizens relate to their impermanent status in terms of being happy in Kuwait and considering it home; and (ii) To identify characteristics that enhance the above perceptions. Among students, 48 per cent were extremely happy and 52 per cent considered it as home very strongly; corresponding percentages among working persons were 35 per cent and 48 per cent, respectively. Arab nationality, female gender, longer duration of residence and bilingual proficiency were positively associated with perceptions of belongingness, which may enhance societal harmony.
Associations between sleep disturbances and diabetes mellitus among blacks with metabolic syndrome: Results from the Metabolic Syndrome Outcome Study (MetSO)

Abstract Introduction. The association between sleep disturbances and cardiometabolic diseases has been understudied in blacks with metabolic syndrome. Methods. This study is a cross-sectional analysis of the Metabolic Syndrome Outcome Study (MetSO) trial. We assessed insomnia symptoms, sleep duration, and risk for sleep apnea. Multivariate logistic regression models evaluated the association between sleep disturbances with diabetes mellitus (DM) and the combined outcomes of DM and hypertension as well as DM and dyslipidemia. Results. The sample consisted of 1,013 participants, mean age of 62 ± 14 years and 61% female. DM was diagnosed in 60% of the sample. Sleep apnea risk was observed in 48% of the sample, while 10% had insomnia symptoms and 65% reported short sleep duration (< 6 hours). Sleep apnea risk, but not insomnia or sleep duration, was associated with DM (OR 1.66; 95% CI 1.21–2.28), adjusting for age, sex, income, obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), tobacco use, alcohol use, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and depression. In fully adjusted models, sleep apnea risk was associated with the combined outcome of DM–hypertension (OR 1.95; 95% CI 1.42–2.69), but not with diabetes–dyslipidemia. Conclusion. We observed a strong association between sleep apnea risk and diabetes mellitus among blacks with metabolic syndrome.
[Radiotherapy of primary extranodal non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the head and neck region. Results of a prospective multicenter study. Study Group NHL: early studies].

PURPOSE To evaluate the long-term outcome of patients with limited-stage primary extranodal lymphoma of head and neck treated with definitive radiotherapy in low-grade and a combined radio- and chemotherapy in high-grade lymphoma. PATIENTS AND METHODS Between January 1986 and August 1993, 63 patients with primary extranodal Non-Hodgkin lymphoma of head and neck region, stages IE and IIE were treated with radiotherapy. The histological classification followed the Kiel classification, staging the Ann Arbor classification. PATIENT CHARACTERISTICS 33 male, 30 female; age 18 to 84 years; tumor localisation: tonsils 26, nasopharynx 7, oropharynx 8, paranasal sinus 11, salivary glands 7, floor of mouth/gingiva 3, larynx 1. Mean follow-up is 74 months. Low-grade lymphoma in stages I and II CS were treated with definitive radiation therapy according to the concepts of epithelial tumors of the same localisation (target volume and technique). The adjuvant dose was 30 Gy and in the tumor volume 40 Gy, 2 Gy daily. 28 patients were registered, 18 in stage I and 10 in stage II. High-grade lymphoma were treated with definitive radiation therapy according to the concepts of epithelial tumors of the same localisation, too. The dose was 40 respectively 50 Gy, followed by 4 courses of adjuvant chemotherapy with CHOP. Thirty-five patients were enrolled, of whom only 10 received chemotherapy. RESULTS The overall 5-year survival rates were for low-grade 67% and for high grade lymphoma 88%. The corresponding relapse-free survival rates were 54/68%, respectively. Only 1 patient failed within the irradiated target volume. Recurrences occurred at sites distant to the irradiated volume in nodal and extranodal regions. Prognosis was influenced by histologic grade. Significant trends were not observed for other potential pretreatment parameters (age, stage, localisation, bulk). CONCLUSIONS In stage I or II patients with low malignant non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the head and neck, initial management with definitive external radiotherapy is appropriate and probably curative. In high-grade lymphoma of clinical stage IE with nonextensive tumor size definitive radiotherapy is possible in curative intention. Primary chemotherapy followed by radiation is probably preferable.
Nosocomial infection and antibiotic use: a second national prevalence study in Germany.

BACKGROUND In 2011, seventeen years after the first national study on the prevalence of nosocomial infections and antibiotic use in German hospitals, a second national prevalence study was carried out according to the specifications of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). METHODS The ECDC protocol, containing uniform surveillance definitions and ascertainment methods, was implemented. The only infections counted were those that were active or under treatment with antibiotics on the day of the study. In addition to the representative sample required by the ECDC, which consisted of 46 hospitals, further hospitals participated on a voluntary basis. RESULTS Data on 41 539 patients in 132 hospitals were analyzed. The prevalence of infections that had arisen during the current hospital stay was 3.8% in the overall group and 3.4% in the representative sample of 9626 patients in 46 hospitals. The prevalence of all nosocomial infections, including those acquired before the current hospital stay and still present upon admission, was 5.1% in both the overall group and the representative sample. The prevalence of antibiotic use on the day of the study was 25.5% and 23.3% in the two groups, respectively. CONCLUSION The prevalence of nosocomial infection has not changed since 1994, but the prevalence of antibiotic use has increased. In interpreting these findings, one should bear in mind that confounders may have influenced them in different directions: The mean length of hospital stay is now shorter than in 1994, but the mean age of hospitalized patients is higher.
A Cytological Survey of Wild Populations of Trimerotropis and Circotettix. (Orthoptera, Acrididae). I. the Chromosomes of Twelve Species.

N RECENT years a great deal of work has been carried out on the distriI bution of structurally different chromosomal types in wild populations of Drosophila (DOBZHANSKY 1947 a, b, c, 1948; DOBZHANSKY and EPLING 1944; WARTERS 1944; CARSON and STALKER 1947). Similar studies have also been carried out on some species of Chironomus (PHILIP 1942; Hsu and LIU 1948). Comparisons have been made between different populations of the same species and between samples of the same population collected a t different seasons:of the year and in several successive years. These studies have been almost entirely concerned with one particular type of chromosomal rearrangements, namely paracentric inversions. In the case of Drosophila pseudoobscura, the species which has been studied most extensively, it was found by DOBZHANSKY that individuals heterozygous for inversions were, as a rule, better adapted under natural conditions than either of the two homozygous types. Thus, if we call one gene-sequence A and the other A’, individuals of the constitution AA’ possessed a higher degree of fitness than either A A or A’A’ individuals, although the relative fitness of the various types showed regular seasonal fluctuations. Results such as these (which can be duplicated in laboratory experiments carried out under controlled environmental conditions in “population cages”) explain the existence of the multiplicity of different gene-sequences known for the chromosomes of D. pseudoobscura and some other species of the genus Drosophila. Thus, in the example we have chosen, natural selection will never lead to the extinction of either sequence A or A‘, as it might if the viability of the heterozygotes were intermediate between the viabilities of the two homozygous types or lower than either of them. Heterozygosity in respect of paracentric inversions is not, however, the only type of cytological heterogeneity present in natural populations of animals. In the grasshoppers such inversions seem to be completely absent in the wild populations of most species, doubtless because they would cause some degree of sterility in a group where chiasma formation occurs in the male. ‘ Neverthe-
A Relação entre a Governança Corporativa e a Estrutura de Capital das Empresas Brasileiras no Período 2000-2013

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of corporate governance practices on capital structure of 252 Brazilian non-financial public listed companies between 2000 and 2013. Panel data econometric techniques were used, with the adoption of a System Generalized Methods of Moments estimator in order to control the potential sources of endogeneity between ownership structure and governance practices. Results show evidence that high corporate governance levels improved the access to debt capital and increased the debt maturity.
Mothers Who Sell Sex: A Potential Paradigm for Integrated HIV, Sexual, and Reproductive Health Interventions Among Women at High Risk of HIV in Burkina Faso

Background:Antenatal care is a point of entry into the health system for women across Africa and may facilitate the uptake of HIV services among female sex workers (FSWs). This study aimed to evaluate the determinants of motherhood among FSWs, their sexual risks, and their engagement in health care. Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to July 2013 among FSWs in Ouagadougou and Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. The study used respondent-driven sampling for HIV testing and behavioral data collection. Predictors of motherhood and the association of motherhood and sex work dynamics were assessed separately using logistic regression. Results:Of the 696 women enrolled, the majority of participants (76.6%, n = 533) had at least 1 biological child. Mothers were more likely to have a nonpaying partner [adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 1.73; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.20 to 2.49], and significantly less likely to currently desire to conceive (aOR, 0.21; 95% CI: 0.13 to 0.33). Motherhood was predictive of having reduced condomless vaginal or anal sex with a new client [age-adjusted odds ratio (aaOR), 0.80; 95% CI: 0.65 to 0.97] in the past 30 days, and increased condomless vaginal or anal sex with a nonpaying partner (aaOR, 1.49; 95% CI: 1.13 to 1.96). Motherhood was prognostic of a higher likelihood of ever being tested for HIV (aaOR, 1.89; 95% CI: 1.55 to 2.31). Motherhood was predictive of reporting limited difficulty when accessing health services (aaOR, 0.15; 95% CI: 0.67 to 0.34). Conclusions:Motherhood is common among FSWs. The results indicate that FSWs who are mothers may have more exposure to health care because of seeking antenatal/perinatal services, presenting important opportunities for inclusion in the HIV continuum of care and to prevent vertical transmission.
ANALISIS DETERMINAN INKLUSI KEUANGAN DI INDONESIA

Financial inclusion has been a trend since post 2008 crisis especially derived from the effects of the crisis towards the class in the bottom of the pyramid. Financial inclusion rate in Indonesia, if seen from three main indicators, is still low. Indonesians who have an account in financial institutions is at 35,95 percent and those who save is at 25,56 percent. Meanwhile, Indonesians who borrow in formal financial institutions are only at 13,3 percent. This study aims to examine individual characteristics in influencing three main indicators of financial inclusion, the ownership of the account, saving, and borrowing from formal financial institution in Indonesia. The data used is the micro-level data with 1000 respondents of the Indonesian population obtained from Global Findex 2014 issued by the World Bank. In accordance with the objectives of this study, the method used is the logit regression model. The results of the research shows that individual characteristics such as income level, education level, and age significantly affect ownership and savings accounts in formal financial institutions. While gender has no significant effect. In the third indicator which is the borrowing from formal financial institutions, only the poorest income quintile and age has a significant effect.
The Monetary Policy Regime in Indonesia

The challenges encountered after the financial crises of 1997 98 and 2008 09 have revealed some valuable lessons with regard to monetary policy. In a small open economy, such as that of Indonesia, the multiple challenges facing monetary policy as a result of capital flow dynamics, amid inflationary pressures, suggest that the monetary authorities should employ multiple instruments. This paper shows that coordinated implementation of a policy instrument mix should ultimately be part of an important strategy for optimally managing the monetary policy trilemma in the current climate, which is fraught with widespread uncertainty. It also shows that a post-GFC monetary policy framework in Indonesia is, generally, characterized by "enhanced" ITF. in "enhanced: ITF, the policy framework continues to adhere to an inflation target as the overriding objective of monetary policy. The main characteristics of ITF will remain, namely, that the inflation target is announced publicly and that the monetary policy is forward-looking, transparent, and clearly accountable. However, the ITF is implemented in a more feasible manner, which means that Bank Indonesia must not only look at the inflation target merely in terms of policy formulation but also consider a number of other factors, including financial sector stability and the dynamics of capital flows and the exchange rate. Therefore, achievement of macroeconomic stability not only is tied to monetary stability (price stability) but also interacts with financial system stability.
Using Private Sector “Big Data” as an Economic Indicator: The Case of Construction Spending

This Chicago Fed Letter provides an account of our collaboration with the construction contracts and payment management firm Textura to use their data to evaluate the state of U.S. construction spending. We show that new construction projects budgeted by Textura’s clients are a leading indicator for total U.S. construction spending and provide information beyond other already publicly available data.