Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
TQM implementation in a least developed country: an exploratory study of Yemen

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to assess the TQM readiness level of Yemeni Organizations. In addition, this study compares the level of readiness between the various Yemeni organizations. Design/methodology/approach Based on the TQM literature, related and relevant information had been gathered to develop an assessment tool used in this research. The main content of the assessment focused on statements related to the most common TQM principles. Data were collected by an assessment team and analyzed using quantitative methods to answer the related research questions. Findings The analysis results showed some of the TQM principles were being practiced by Yemeni organizations, to some extent, and with variant levels. The most widely practiced principle was customer focus, and the lowest principle practiced was continuous improvement. Also, the data showed the level of TQM readiness in Yemeni organizations was 58.93 percent. This level of TQM readiness indicates there is a potential for successful adoption of quality management standards and models in Yemeni organizations. Research limitations/implications This study extends previous limited research in TQM readiness level measurement. It also adds to the body of TQM knowledge within the context of Yemen. In addition, this study contributes to the understanding of TQM implementation in an least developed countries (LDC) environment, where LDC organizational culture has its particularities on implementing TQM. Originality/value This paper contributes to a better understanding of TQM in an LDC country, which is Yemen. The paper points out which of the TQM principles are important to potential adoption of quality management standards and models. This study could further expand research, regarding the TQM in Yemen.
Application of three‐dimensional rendering in joint‐related ganglion cysts

The origin of para‐articular cysts is poorly understood and controversial. The relatively common, simple (extraneural) cysts are presumed to be derived from joints, although joint connections are not always established. Rarer complex cysts are thought by many to form de novo within nerves (intraneural ganglion cysts) or within vessels (adventitial cysts) (degenerative theory). We believe that these simple and complex ganglion cysts are joint‐related (articular theory). Joint connections are often not readily appreciated with routine imaging or at surgery. Not identifying and/or treating joint connections frequently leads to cyst recurrence. More sophisticated imaging may enhance visualization of these joint connections. We created a 3D rendering technique to assess potential joint connections of simple and complex cysts localized to the knee and superior tibiofibular joints in patients with fibular (peroneal) neuropathy. Two‐ and three‐dimensional data sets from MRI examinations were segmented semiautomatically by signal intensity with further refinement based on interaction with the user to identify specific anatomic structures, such as small nerves and vessels on serial images. The bone, cysts, nerves, and vessels were each assigned different color representations, and 3D renderings were created in ANALYZE using the data sets closest to isotropic (voxel with equal length in all dimensions) resolution as the primary background rendering. We selected four cases to illustrate the spectrum of pathology. In all of these cases, we demonstrated joint connections and correlated imaging and operative findings. Surgery addressing the cyst and the joint connection resulted in excellent outcomes; postoperative MRIs done more than 6 months later confirmed that there was no recurrence. In addition to highlighting the important relationship of these cysts to neighboring anatomic structures, this 3D technique allows visualization of “occult” connections not readily appreciated with standard MR imaging. We believe that these joint‐related cysts have a common pathogenesis; they dissect through a capsular rent and follow the path of least resistance; they may form simple cysts by dissecting out into the soft tissue, or more complex cysts by dissecting within the epineurium of nerves or adventitia of vessels (along an articular branch), or various combinations of all of these types of cysts. Understanding the pathogenesis for cyst formation will improve surgical management and outcomes. We have adapted this 3D technique to enhance the visualization of cysts occurring at other joints. Clin. Anat. 19:312–322, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Proportional-Resonant Current Controller for Selective Harmonic Compensation in a Hybrid Active Power Filter

This paper deals with reactive power compensation and harmonics elimination in medium-voltage industrial networks using a hybrid active power filter. It proposes a hybrid filter as a combination of a three-phase, two-level, voltage-source converter connected in parallel with the inductor of a shunt, single-tuned, passive filter. This topological structure greatly decreases the voltage and current stress over the elements of the active filter. Since the topology is composed of a single-tuned branch, the control algorithm also has to ensure sufficient filtering at other harmonic frequencies. We propose using a proportional-resonant, multiloop controller. Since the controller is implemented in a synchronous-reference frame, it allows us to use half the number of resonators, compared with the solution using proportional-integral controllers in the harmonic-reference frame. Theoretical analyses and simulation results obtained from an actual industrial network model in PSCAD verify the viability and effectiveness of the proposed hybrid filter. In addition, the simulation results are validated by a comparison with the results obtained from a real-time digital simulator.
The Relationship between School Climate and Teacher Autonomy Behaviors

In this study, it was aimed to find out the relationship between the school climate and teacher autonomy. The research population consisted of private and public school teachers at pre-school, primary, lower secondary and upper secondary schools in the centre and the districts of Mugla. The study was designed in survey model. The sample of the study consisted of 434 teachers selected by using disproportionate cluster sampling technique. The Teacher Autonomy Scale and the Organizational Climate Scale were used as data collection tools. Teacher Autonomy Scale was developed within the scope of the present study. Descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, and the multivariate regression analysis were used to analyze the data. According to the results of the research, while the principals display supportive behaviours the most; the teachers display collegial behaviours the most. The findings also reveal that teachers display above average autonomy. Out of all the autonomy dimensions, teachers display teaching autonomy the most, professional development autonomy the least. The dimensions of the school climate explain 8% of general teacher autonomy. Supportive and directive principal behaviours are the significant predictors of the general teacher autonomy.
Cross-reinnervated motor units in cat muscle. II. Soleus muscle reinnervated by flexor digitorum longus motoneurons.

The properties of whole soleus (SOL) muscles and of individual motor units were studied in cats 30-50 wk after self-reinnervation by soleus (SOL) motoneurons (SOL----SOL) or cross-reinnervation by flexor digitorum longus (FDL) motoneurons (FDL----SOL). As in the preceding paper (22), intracellular and glycogen-depletion methods were used to examine the physiological and histochemical properties of individual motor units. The results were compared with data from normal SOL motor units (8, 12). Intentionally self-reinnervated SOL muscles (SOL----SOL; n = 6) were normal in size and wet weight, and all of the five SOL----SOL motor units studied had physiological and histochemical characteristics that matched those of normal SOL units. Cross-reinnervation of SOL by FDL alpha-motoneurons (FDL----SOL; n = 7) produced muscles with wet weights and appearance essentially identical to normal SOL. However, whole-muscle twitch contraction times were much shorter (mean 60.4 ms) than those of normal (mean 136.9 ms, n = 18) or SOL----SOL muscles (mean 115.3 ms; n = 6). Despite this difference, none of the FDL----SOL muscles contained more than 7% histochemical type II muscle fibers, all of which were type IIA. Normal cat SOL muscles can contain up to 5% type IIA fibers, but none of our SOL----SOL muscles showed any type II fibers. Two FDL----SOL muscles had significant amounts of unintended self-reinnervation, permitting side-by-side comparison of FDL----SOL and SOL----SOL muscle fibers. The twitch contraction times of the two populations differed markedly, but they were histochemically indistinguishable except for the fact that SOL----SOL fibers had high neutral fat content (as do normal SOL fibers), whereas FDL----SOL showed much lower fat content. The 23 FDL----SOL muscle units studied were classified as physiological type S by criteria ("sag" test and fatigue resistance) used to identify motor-unit types in normal cat muscles. All five of the FDL----SOL units studied histochemically after glycogen depletion showed the type I histochemical profile, which is characteristic of the normal cat SOL. In marked contrast to the preceding study, cross-reinnervation of cat SOL by FDL motoneurons produced no conversion of muscle-unit properties into those associated with fast-twitch unit types, despite significant decreases in isometric twitch contraction time. The altered twitch speed was not associated with evident changes in conventional myofibrillar adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) histochemistry. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Laboratory Support of the Clinical Nutrition Service

Abstract This article critically reviews the role of the laboratory services in assessment, monitoring and management of complications in patients requiring nutritional support. It has broadly been divided into three sections. (i) Assessment of protein and energy status: whilst it is stressed that clinical judgement and anthropometric measurements are the most effective methods of evaluation of nutritional requirements, laboratory tests which can be of use in assessment of protein energy status are discussed in detail, including an appraisal of the value of each test in various clinical situations. (ii) Assessment of micronutrient and electrolyte status: the clinical justification for assessment of the various micronutrients and electrolytes is considered. A few selected examples are discussed in detail including an evaluation of the tests of status available and examples of situations where measurement may be clinically helpful. (iii) Effective use of the laboratory: this section attempts to guide the clinician in the most appropriate use of laboratory tests, firstly in the assessment of requirement for aspects of nutritional support, secondly in the continued monitoring and evaluation of the support provided, and thirdly in prevention and treatment of metabolic complications. It is emphasised that clinical nutrition is a multidisciplinary topic requiring input from the laboratory in conjunction with other specialities to provide the best available patient care.
The Rate of Returns for Female Employees in the Public-Private Sectors in Kyrgyzstan: A Quantile Regression Approach 1

The place of women in working life is extremely important by reason of the fact that it contributes to an increase in overall family income and accordingly a rise in the standard of living. The female labor force participation rate, which constitutes half of human capital, is lower than men all over the world as well as in developed and developing countries. The aim of this study is to analyze the rate of returns for Kyrgyz women in both the private and public sectors, and also to expose the structure of the rate of education and experience. For this aim, on the ground that homoscedasticity cannot be provided in the case of outliers in the data, the Mincerian earnings equations are estimated via the quantile regression method, which is one of the most robust regression methods, and the results are compared with the LS regression. The estimated models show that the rate of education is rising up to the middle wage levels in the public sector and, on the contrary, decreasing in the private sector. This structure is reversed after the middle wage levels. When the estimated models are compared regarding to the rate of experience, it is observed that even if there is only a small increase in between the period, there is a decreasing tendency in the public sector in general. In the private sector, while a preliminary increasing tendency is seen in the rate of experience, a critical decline is observed beginning from the middle levels, while there are substantial rises in the higher quantiles.
Geochemical Processes Constraining Iron Uptake in Strategy II Fe Acquisition

Phytosiderophores (PS) are natural chelating agents, exuded by graminaceous plants (grasses) for the purpose of Fe acquisition (Strategy II). They can form soluble Fe complexes with soil-Fe that can be readily taken up. PS are exuded in a diurnal pulse release, and with the start of PS release a “window of iron uptake” opens. In the present study we examined how this window is constrained in time and concentration by biogeochemical processes. For this purpose, a series of interaction experiments was done with a calcareous clay soil and the phytosiderophore 2′-deoxymugineic acid (DMA), in which metal and DMA speciation were examined as a function of time and DMA concentration. Various kinetically and thermodynamically controlled processes affected the size of the window of Fe uptake. Adsorption lowered, but did not prevent Fe mobilization by DMA. Microbial activity depleted DMA from solution, but not on time scales jeopardizing Strategy II Fe acquisition. Complexation of competing metals played an important role in constraining the window of Fe uptake, particularly at environmentally relevant PS concentrations. Our study provides a conceptual model that takes into account the chemical kinetics involved with PS-mediated Fe acquisition. The model can help to explain how success or failure of PS-mediated Fe acquisition depends on environmental conditions.
Validity of the Crouter 2-Regression Model for Predicting Energy Expenditure: Transitions from Rest to Activity

The Crouter 2-regression model (15) is a new approach for predicting MET values. However, the Crouter 2-regression model may misclassify walking/jogging during transition periods (i.e. during the first and last minute of the activity) due to the high coefficient of variation resulting in an overestimation of MET values. Purpose: The purpose was to examine the Crouter 2-regression model for predicting MET values during transitions from rest to activity and back to rest. It was hypothesized that starting a walking bout partway through a minute will lead to a misclassification, due to the high coefficient of variation, and therefore over-predict MET values. Methods: Thirty participants (age, 28.2 ± 7.7 yrs; BMI, 24.6 ± 3.6 kg·m-2) volunteered to perform 15 minutes of supine rest followed immediately by 8 minutes of each of the following activities: one-on-one basketball, seated rest, over-ground walking, and seated rest. An ActiGraph GTlM was positioned on the right hip and a portable metabolic unit (Cosmed K4b) was worn during all activities. The participants were randomly assigned to start the activity bouts at 0-s, 20-s or 40-s into the minute (according to the ActiGraph clock). Results: The Crouter 2-regression model under-predicted the total energy cost of basketball compared to the Cosmed K4b2 by an average of 12.8 MET·minutes (P < 0.001) (15.9%). During walking, the Crouter 2-regression model over-predicted MET values compared to the Cosmed K4b2 during the transitional minutes in the 20-s and 40-s conditions by an average of 2.2 METs (P < 0.001). However, it accurately predicted MET values during minutes 2-7 part of the bout. Conclusion: The energy cost of basketball was under-predicted by the Crouter 2-regression model. During the walk-to-
Role of Dendritic Cell Targeting in Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis Virus Pathogenesis

ABSTRACT The initial steps of Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEE) spread from inoculation in the skin to the draining lymph node have been characterized. By using green fluorescent protein and immunocytochemistry, dendritic cells in the draining lymph node were determined to be the primary target of VEE infection in the first 48 h following inoculation. VEE viral replicon particles, which can undergo only one round of infection, identified Langerhans cells to be the initial set of cells infected by VEE directly following inoculation. These cells are resident dendritic cells in the skin, which migrate to the draining lymph node following activation. A point mutation in the E2 glycoprotein gene of VEE that renders the virus avirulent and compromises its ability to spread beyond the draining lymph blocked the appearance of virally infected dendritic cells in the lymph node in vivo. A second-site suppressor mutation that restores viral spread to lymphoid tissues and partially restore virulence likewise restored the ability of VEE to infect dendritic cells in vivo.
Performance of Genotypic Algorithms for Predicting HIV-1 Tropism Measured against the Enhanced-Sensitivity Trofile Coreceptor Tropism Assay

ABSTRACT The objectives of this study were to assess the performance of genotypic algorithms for predicting CXCR4-using virus, with enhanced sensitivity Trofile HIV coreceptor tropism assay (ES Trofile) as the reference, and to compare the concordance/accuracy of genotypic tests with ES Trofile and with the original Trofile assay. Paired phenotypic and genotypic determinations of HIV-1 coreceptor usage were compared in plasma samples from HIV-1-infected patients. Sequencing of the third hypervariable (V3) loop of the viral gene and phenotypic assays were performed for each sample. Genotypic rules used to predict tropism were Geno2pheno (false-positive rate at 1 to 20%), position-specific scoring matrix X4R5 (PSSMX4R5) and PSSMsinsi (where “sinsi” stands for syncytium inducing and non-syncytium inducing), and the 11/25, 11/24/25, and net charge rules. Two hundred forty-four phenotypic and genotypic samples were tested. Coreceptor usage was obtained from ES Trofile for 145 (59%) samples and from Trofile for 99 (41%) samples. The highest concordance (82.6%) was obtained with PSSMX4R5 when ES Trofile was used as the reference. Geno2pheno at a 20% false-positive rate showed the highest sensitivity (76.7%) for CXCR4-using virus detection with ES Trofile. Samples from naïve subjects and those with CD4 cell counts between 200 and 500 cells/mm3 showed the best predictive performance. Overall, the accuracy of the bioinformatics tools to detect CXCR4-using virus was similar for ES Trofile and Trofile; however, the negative predictive values for genotypic tools with ES Trofile were slightly higher than they were with Trofile. The accuracy of genotypic algorithms for detecting CXCR4-using viruses is high when using ES Trofile as the reference. Results are similar to those obtained with Trofile. The concordance with ES Trofile is better with higher CD4 cell counts and nonexposure to antiretroviral therapy.
Iranian Nurses’ Experiences of Aggression in Psychiatric Wards: A Qualitative Study

Aggression from psychiatric patients is a constant problem for care providers that causes major problems in the therapeutic environment, and may have negative effects on the quality of care. Since recognition of aggression with regard to cultural background leads to better control of aggression in the psychiatric wards, this study has been done to clarify Iranian nurses’ experiences of aggression in psychiatric wards. A qualitative content analysis study was conducted to explore experiences of nurses. Data analysis revealed four themes: (1) Damage resulting from aggression, (2) Aggression catalysts, (3) Contagious nature of aggression, and (4) Various control strategies. There are various causes for in-patients’ aggression, and nurses use various approaches to control it. These approaches are influenced by personnel, facilities, and ward environment. Identifying these factors and strategies can contribute to better management of aggression and, thus, better quality of care in psychiatric wards.
Tackling alcohol related violence in city centres: effect of emergency medicine and police intervention

Objectives: To identify correlates of alcohol related assault injury in the city centre of a European capital city, with particular reference to emergency department (ED) and police interventions, and number and capacity of licensed premises. Methods: Assaults resulting in ED treatment were studied using a longitudinal controlled intervention, a three stage design during a three year period of rapid expansion in the night-time economy, when ED initiated targeted police interventions were delivered. A controlled ED intervention targeted at high risk night-clubs was carried out. Main outcome measure was ED treatment after assault in licensed premises and the street. Results: Targeted police intervention was associated with substantial reductions in assaults in licensed premises but unexpected increases in street assault were also observed (34% overall: 105% in the principal entertainment thoroughfare). Combined police/ED intervention was associated with a significantly greater reduction compared with police intervention alone (OR = 0.61, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.91). Street assault correlated significantly with numbers and capacity of premises. Risk of assault was 50% greater in and around licensed premises in the city centre compared with those in the suburbs, although dispersion of violence to more licensed premises was not observed. Conclusions: Marked decreases in licensed premises assaults resulting from targeted policing were enhanced by the intervention of ED and maxillofacial consultants. Capacity of licensed premises was a major predictor of assaults in the city centre street in which they are clustered. City centre assault injury prevention can be achieved through police/ED interventions targeted at high risk licensed premises, which should also target the streets around which these premises are clustered.
Estimating the contribution of everolimus to immunosuppressive efficacy when combined with tacrolimus in liver transplantation: A model‐based approach

Determining the efficacy contribution of an investigational drug as part of a novel combination regimen that also includes a previously untested dose of a standard treatment is challenging, particularly when “placebo control” data (combination regimen minus the investigational drug) is not available for comparison. This situation was encountered in a phase III trial that tested the combination of the investigational drug everolimus with a dose of tacrolimus lower than used in standard liver transplantation therapy. The challenge was addressed by predicting the efficacy of the placebo control from the study data using a pharmacometric‐based exposure–response analysis, selected to account for features specific to the transplant setting: systematic change in drug exposure over time and sparse pharmacokinetic sampling. The efficacy contribution of everolimus was then demonstrated by comparing this prediction to the efficacy of the combination regimen. This pharmacometrics‐based approach may contribute to characterization of therapeutic agents in real‐world settings.