Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Development of a highly accurate nomogram for prediction of the need for exploration in patients with renal trauma.

BACKGROUND To develop and validate a nomogram for predicting the need for renal exploration after renal trauma. METHODS From 1995 through 2004, 419 consecutive patients presented to our institution with traumatic renal injury. All were randomly divided into a development (50%, n = 210) and a split sample validation cohort (50%, n = 209). Logistic regression models were used to develop a nomogram for prediction of the need for renal exploration after renal trauma. Internal (200 bootstrap resamples) and 50% split sample validations were performed. RESULTS Overall, 89 patients (21.2%) underwent renal exploration, from which 60.7% (54 of 89) underwent nephrectomy and 39.3% (35 of 89) underwent renorrhaphy. Nine percent of patients with grade II injury underwent renal exploration, 16% with grade III injuries, 41% with grade IV injuries, and 100% of grade V injuries. The kidney injury scale, the mechanism of injury, the need for transfusion, blood urea nitrogen level, and serum creatinine represented the most informative predictors and were included in the nomogram. The split sample accuracy of the nomogram for prediction of the need for renal exploration was 96.9%. It significantly (p < 0.001) exceeded the accuracy of each of its components including the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma kidney injury scale (87.7%). CONCLUSION The nomogram generates highly accurate and reproducible predictions of the probability for renal exploration according to our decision-making. It could help standardize the management of patients with renal trauma (i.e., inclusion criteria for clinical trials) and serves as a proof-of-principle that predictive tools can be applied to the trauma setting. Its use may improve the management of renal trauma patients at institutions with limited trauma experience.
POTENTIAL PITFALLS OF RECONSTRUCTING DEEP TIME EVOLUTIONARY HISTORY WITH ONLY EXTANT DATA, A CASE STUDY USING THE CANIDAE (MAMMALIA, CARNIVORA)

Reconstructing evolutionary patterns and their underlying processes is a central goal in biology. Yet many analyses of deep evolutionary histories assume that data from the fossil record is too incomplete to include, and rely solely on databases of extant taxa. Excluding fossil taxa assumes that character state distributions across living taxa are faithful representations of a clade's entire evolutionary history. Many factors can make this assumption problematic. Fossil taxa do not simply lead‐up to extant taxa; they represent now‐extinct lineages that can substantially impact interpretations of character evolution for extant groups. Here, we analyze body mass data for extant and fossil canids (dogs, foxes, and relatives) for changes in mean and variance through time. AIC‐based model selection recovered distinct models for each of eight canid subgroups. We compared model fit of parameter estimates for (1) extant data alone and (2) extant and fossil data, demonstrating that the latter performs significantly better. Moreover, extant‐only analyses result in unrealistically low estimates of ancestral mass. Although fossil data are not always available, reconstructions of deep‐time organismal evolution in the absence of deep‐time data can be highly inaccurate, and we argue that every effort should be made to include fossil data in macroevolutionary studies.
Mineralisation of Developmentally Hypomineralised Human Enamel in vitro

Molar-incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) is a problematic and costly condition. Caries remineralising agents are often recommended for MIH management despite the lack of evidence that these lesions have the capacity for increasing their mineral content. Following surface layer removal ± NaOCl pre-treatment and 14-day exposure to a CPP-ACFP solution at pH 5.5, MIH lesions were analysed using transverse microradiography and polarised light microscopy. Lesions were highly variable but treatment with the remineralising solution increased mineral content (1,828 ± 461 vol% min·µm, %R = 17.7 ± 5.7) and porosity decreased demonstrating the proof of concept that the mineral content of developmentally hypomineralised enamel can be improved after eruption.
Comparison of LysB28, ProB29-Human Insulin Analog and Regular Human Insulin in the Correction of Incidental Hyperglycemia

OBJECTIVE To obtain clinically applicable data on the effects of regular human insulin and the LysB28, ProB29-human insulin analogue (lispro) on the correction of incidental hyperglycemia. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The insulins were compared in a non-clamped randomized crossover study of 27 male IDDM patients. Hyperglycemia was induced by the withdrawal of the normal evening dose of insulin; the next morning patients fasted and received a single dose of study insulin according to a dosing nomogram. Blood glucose concentration and GR (a measure of glucose corrected for differences in administered insulin dose: GR = glucose concentration × BMI × insulin dose−1) were followed for 4 h. RESULTS The time courses of blood glucose concentration and GR were significantly different after regular insulin in comparison with lispro (multiple analysis of variance, P < 0.001). At t = 120 min, glucose concentrations had decreased 1.4 mmol/l more with lispro than with regular insulin (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.6–2.3, P = 0.002). Similarly, GR had decreased 4.4 mol · kg · IU−1 · m−5 more with lispro than with regular insulin (95% CI 2.6–6.2, P < 0.001). The overall difference in glucose values was 0.87 mmol/l (lispro < regular insulin, P = 0.036), and the overall difference in GR values was 1.96 mol · kg · IU−1 · m−5 (lispro < regular insulin, P = NS). Unexpectedly, the intrinsic variability of GR was higher for lispro than for regular insulin. CONCLUSIONS The more rapid action of lispro is an advantage in the correction of hyperglycemia, even though actual differences in glucose concentrations are smaller than suggested by previous clamped studies.
Contribution of large-scale circulation anomalies to changes in extreme precipitation frequency in the United States

The mean global climate has warmed as a result of the increasing emission of greenhouse gases induced by human activities. This warming is considered the main reason for the increasing number of extreme precipitation events in the US. While much attention has been given to extreme precipitation events occurring over several days, which are usually responsible for severe flooding over a large region, little is known about how extreme precipitation events that cause flash flooding and occur at sub-daily time scales have changed over time. Here we use the observed hourly precipitation from the North American Land Data Assimilation System Phase 2 forcing datasets to determine trends in the frequency of extreme precipitation events of short (1 h, 3 h, 6 h, 12 h and 24 h) duration for the period 1979–2013. The results indicate an increasing trend in the central and eastern US. Over most of the western US, especially the Southwest and the Intermountain West, the trends are generally negative. These trends can be largely explained by the interdecadal variability of the Pacific Decadal Oscillation and Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO), with the AMO making a greater contribution to the trends in both warm and cold seasons.
Calcitriol-mediated hypercalcemia in a patient with bilateral adrenal non-Hodgkin's B-cell lymphoma case report

Calcitriol-mediated hypercalcemia is a frequent manifestation of hematological malignancies. However, there are a few reports of cases presenting with increased angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) level, which suggests a possible mechanism similar to that of granulomatous diseases. We present a patient with hypercalcemia, normal parathyroid hormone, and parathyroid hormone-related protein levels but high calcitriol and ACE levels that, after further investigation, was diagnosed with bilateral adrenal non-Hodgkin's B-cell lymphoma. Primary adrenal lymphoma represents only 1% of all non-Hodgkin's lymphomas and is usually asymptomatic but should be considered by clinicians among the malignancies that cause calcitriol-mediated hypercalcemia.
Genetic investigation into ethnic disparity in polycystic ovarian syndrome

Abstract Polycystic ovarian syndrome is universally the most common endocrinopathy in women of reproductive age. It is characterized by composite clinical phenotypes reflecting the reproductive impact of ovarian dysfunction (androgen excess, oligo-/anovulation, polycystic ovary) and metabolic abnormalities (insulin resistance, obesity) with widely varying symptoms among the affected. Studies have shown a clear pattern of disparity in clinical manifestations of its component phenotypes across ethnic populations. Recent genetic association studies suggested differential genetic background that could contribute to the observed ethnic disparity. We summarize the current status in genetic studies of the disorder in different populations with a focus on ethnicity. Especially, we highlight and discuss the applications of recent developments in DNA sequencing, global transcriptional and epigenetic profiling that could help to unravel the molecular basis of the interethnic difference in the pathogenesis of the syndrome. It is hoped that identification and characterization of population-specific structural genetic and functional genomic patterns could help to not only deepen our understanding of the aetiology but also develop more efficient strategies for treatment and prevention of polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Acute toxicity and bioconcentration of pyrimorph in zebrafish, Brachydanio rerio.

BACKGROUND Pyrimorph is a novel fungicide being developed in China that shows high antifungal activity against diseases caused by Phytophthora infestans, Phytophthora capsici, Rhizoctonia solani, Peronophythora litchi and Pseudoperonospora cubensis. Until now, no information on the toxicity of pyrimorph to untargeted organisms has been reported. To assess the potential environmental impacts of pyrimorph in fish, the acute toxicity and bioconcentration of pyrimorph in zebrafish were studied in this paper. RESULTS When tested by the semi-static method, the 48, 72 and 96 h median lethal concentration (LC50 ) values of pyrimorph to zebrafish were 24.33, 22.61 and 19.79 mg L(-1) respectively. To study the bioconcentration of pyrimorph in zebrafish, the fish were exposed to sublethal concentrations of pyrimorph (2.00 and 0.25 mg L(-1) ) for 192 h, a modified QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged and Safe) method was applied to extract pyrimorph from samples and the residues of pyrimorph in the water and fish were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The highest bioconcentration factor (BCF) of pyrimorph in the fish was 1.07 × 10(2) (144 h) and 23.1 (96 h) after exposure to 2.00 and 0.25 mg L(-1) of pyrimorph respectively. CONCLUSIONS The novel fungicide pyrimorph has low toxicity to zebrafish; however, it showed medium BCF to zebrafish. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the residue of pyrimorph in fish, as well as to its long-term ecological effects.
Learning from example : exploring immigrant language minority students’ perceptions of what it takes to "make it" as an ESL student

Successful students who are immigrant language minority students (ILMS) and who were once identified as ESL learners tend to standout in the Greater Vancouver area since academic achievement tends to be the exception rather than the rule for these students. Only a small proportion appears to graduate from high school and/or pursue studies at a post-secondary level (Gunderson, 2000). If one believes that, in general, all children have what it takes to discover and learn about the world that surrounds them, and how to become an active participant in it, then one has to wonder why so many are failing. Moreover, one can ask what the few who are making it are actually doing that allows them to "beat the odds". This study attempted to explore this question through a series of qualitative iridepth interviews with fifteen 'ex-ESL students' from the Greater Vancouver area. The interviews focused on their perceptions of the factors having influenced their successful academic achievement and integration process as defined by their ability to enter a Canadian university. The importance of the special challenges that the education of ILMS presents for all involved is stressed, followed by a discussion of how these challenges were perceived, faced and overcome by the ILMS in this study. Special emphasis is put on the importance of sociocultural aspects such as the establishment of a strong sense of selfworth, strong relationships with family and friends, the preservation of home language(s) and culture(s) and prior school experiences as keys to social and academic achievement. This thesis also identifies interesting paradoxes in the way the informants perceived their educational experiences. Informants commented, for example, on the safe, yet segregating ESL classrooms and the importance of both individual and collective effort. In summarizing and discussing the comments and advice given by ILMS it is hoped that more people may gain a greater understanding of what ILMS have to face and what it takes to help make success the rule rather than the exception.
Physical Activity Interventions in Faith-Based Organizations: A Systematic Review

Objective: To review and assess the effectiveness of physical activity interventions delivered in faith-based organizations. Data Source: We searched the Cochrane Library, DoPHER, EMBASE, LILACS, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, WHO ICTRP, and Clinicaltrials.gov databases until January 2016, without restriction of language or publication date. Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria: Randomized and nonrandomized controlled trials investigating physical activity interventions for adults delivered in faith-based organizations. Data Extraction: Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed study methodological quality. Data Synthesis: We used relative risk and mean difference with 95% confidence interval to estimate the effect of the interventions on measures of physical activity, physical fitness, and health. Results: The review included 18 studies. Study participants were predominantly female, and the majority of trials were conducted in the United States. Study heterogeneity did not allow us to conduct meta-analyses. Although interventions delivered in faith-based organizations increased physical activity and positively influenced measures of health and fitness in participants, the quality of the evidence was very low. Conclusion: Faith-based organizations are promising settings to promote physical activity, consequently addressing health disparities. However, high-quality randomized clinical trials are needed to adequately assess the effectiveness of interventions delivered in faith-based organizations.
Perceptions and experiences of tuberculosis among African patients attending a tuberculosis clinic in London.

SETTING Little is known of the social and cultural issues influencing the uptake of and attitudes to tuberculosis (TB) care by people of African extraction living in the UK. OBJECTIVE To describe the perceptions and experiences of African patients with TB in London, focusing on issues relating to diagnosis, treatment adherence and stigma. DESIGN Qualitative study using in-depth interviews. RESULTS Misinterpretation of early symptoms led to delays in seeking health care. Although half of the respondents reported denial of the diagnosis, they reported good treatment adherence, noting the role of TB specialist nurses in promoting adherence. Respondents felt stigmatised by the diagnosis, although actual experiences of stigma were rare. Experience of TB in a known person mitigated stigma. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease was perceived to have worsened TB stigma, and most patients offered HIV testing initially declined, fearing stigmatisation and poor illness outcomes if positive. CONCLUSIONS Awareness of TB can be improved among migrants at high risk of developing the disease and among health professionals. Counselling around HIV testing for TB patients must take their beliefs into account if a high uptake of testing is to be achieved.
Surgery on Anterior Foramen Magnum Meningiomas Using a Conventional Posterior Suboccipital Approach: A Report on an Experience with 17 Cases

OBJECTIVEThe advantages of a posterior “conventional” suboccipital approach with a midline incision over lateral, anterolateral, and anterior approaches to anteriorly placed foramen magnum meningiomas are discussed. METHODSFrom 1991 to March 2000, 17 patients with foramen magnum meningiomas arising from the anterior or anterolateral rim of the foramen magnum underwent operations in the Department of Neurosurgery at King Edward Memorial Hospital and Seth G.S. Medical College. All patients were operated on in a semi-sitting position by use of a conventional suboccipital approach with a midline incision and extension of the craniectomy laterally toward the side of the tumor up to the occipital condyle. RESULTSThe patients ranged in age from 17 to 72 years, and the tumors ranged in size from 2.1 to 3.8 cm. The intradural vertebral artery was at least partially encased on one side in eight patients and on both sides in two patients. The brainstem was displaced predominantly posteriorly in each patient. A partial condylar resection was performed in two cases to enhance the exposure. Total tumor resection was achieved in 14 patients, and a subtotal resection of the tumor was performed in the other 3 patients. In one patient, a small part of the tumor was missed inadvertently, and in the other two patients, part of the tumor in relation to the vertebral artery and posterior inferior cerebellar artery was deliberately left behind. After surgery, one patient developed exaggerated lower cranial nerve weakness. There was no significant postoperative complication in the remainder of the patients, and their conditions improved after surgery. The average length of follow-up is 43 months, and there has been no recurrence of the tumor or growth of the residual tumor. CONCLUSIONFrom our experience, we conclude that a large majority of anterior foramen magnum meningiomas can be excised with a lateral suboccipital approach and meticulous microsurgical techniques.
Dividend Premium: Are Dividend-Paying Stocks Worth More?

This paper examines whether dividend policy impacts firm value and find that paying dividends does improve firm value. Panel data regressions suggest that the dividend premium for firms’ equity is 27.9% and the dividend premium for firms’ assets is 11.0%. The tests using propensity score matching methodology report a lower – but still positive and statistically significant – dividend premium: 5.3% for equity and 3.7% for assets. Thus, stock prices of dividend payers are greater by 5.3% or 27.9% on average (depending on methodology) compared to those of nonpayers. We find that uncertainty index and tax code changes explain more than half of the variation in dividend premium.
Chondrocytes Derived From Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Induced Pluripotent Cells of Patients With Familial Osteochondritis Dissecans Exhibit an Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Response and Defective Matrix Assembly

Familial osteochondritis dissecans (FOCD) is an inherited skeletal defect characterized by the development of large cartilage lesions in multiple joints, short stature, and early onset of severe osteoarthritis. It is associated with a heterozygous mutation in the ACAN gene, resulting in a Val‐Met replacement in the C‐type lectin domain of aggrecan. To understand the cellular pathogenesis of this condition, we studied the chondrogenic differentiation of patient bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BM‐MSCs). We also looked at cartilage derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) generated from patient fibroblasts. Our results revealed several characteristics of the differentiated chondrocytes that help to explain the disease phenotype and susceptibility to cartilage injury. First, patient chondrogenic pellets had poor structural integrity but were rich in glycosaminoglycan. Second, it was evident that large amounts of aggrecan accumulated within the endoplasmic reticulum of chondrocytes differentiated from both BM‐MSCs and iPSCs. In turn, there was a marked absence of aggrecan in the extracellular matrix. Third, it was evident that matrix synthesis and assembly were globally dysregulated. These results highlight some of the abnormal aspects of chondrogenesis in these patient cells and help to explain the underlying cellular pathology. The results suggest that FOCD is a chondrocyte aggrecanosis with associated matrix dysregulation. The work provides a new in vitro model of osteoarthritis and cartilage degeneration based on the use of iPSCs and highlights how insights into disease phenotype and pathogenesis can be uncovered by studying differentiation of patient stem cells.
Who Benefits from Agglomeration?

Rigby D. L. and Brown W. M. Who benefits from agglomeration? , Regional Studies. Theories of the firm and strategic management argue that competitive advantage originates in the development and exploitation of assets or capabilities that may be internal or external to the firm. It might be anticipated that older, larger, foreign-owned and multi-plant firms draw upon internal resources more readily than young, small, domestic, single-plant firms. Do the benefits of agglomeration vary among business establishments according to their characteristics? This question is examined using plant-level, longitudinal, micro-data from the Canadian manufacturing sector. It is shown that most manufacturing plants benefit from co-location, but that plants with different characteristics benefit in different ways.
Deciphering fatigue factor in chronic hepatitis B infection

ABSTRACT Background: With success in treating hepatitis C disease, chronic hepatitis B infection will be given more attention here forward. Whereas prevention of late morbidity with chronic hepatitis B infection is an admirable goal, the benefit for treating chronic carriers who lack determinable advances in their liver disease remains a debate. Purpose: Fatigue, as a symptom, is one of several clinical complications that may be useful to assess the treatment of relatively asymptomatic chronic carriers. This narrative review assesses the current status for assessment of fatigue in this context. Methods: A literature review was conducted of citations intersecting fatigue and hepatitis B as found in PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL Plus, and the Cochrane Library. Results: Fatigue measurement can be direct or indirect with the assistance of several survey instruments, but there is a lack of universal adoption of any one or more. Nevertheless, there appears to be a consensus that worse fatigue scores are associated with increased hepatitis B-associated morbidity. There is no clear consensus about which quality of life indicators will serve treatment studies best. Conclusion: Studies of treatment that assess fatigue and other clinical symptoms as outcomes must be properly matched and controlled. The combination of clinical and/or biochemical measures should have uniformity and consensus among scientists.