Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Exposure of the orthopaedic surgeon to radiation.

A prospective study of sixty-five orthopaedic procedures performed with fluoroscopic assistance was undertaken to determine the risk to the primary orthopaedic surgeon with regard to radiation. Radiation was monitored with the use of a universal film badge placed outside the collar of a lead apron, and a gas-sterilized thermoluminescent dosimeter ring worn on each hand. The rings were changed with every operation, but the same film badge was transferred from surgeon to surgeon. The hand dominance of the surgeon, the duration of the operative procedure, the type of operation, and the total time that fluoroscopy had been used were noted. The study was conducted during twenty-one intramedullary nailing procedures (thirteen involving distal locking), forty open reductions with internal fixation (plates and screws), and four external-fixation procedures. All of the badges and rings were submitted for a report regarding radiation exposure. No relationship was found between a ring with a positive reading for exposure to radiation and the duration of the operation. Similarly, there was no correlation between a positive reading and the surgeon's hand dominance. The mean duration of the fluoroscopy was 2.3 minutes for the group for which the rings did not show a positive reading and 4.7 minutes for the group for which the rings did show a positive reading. This was a significant difference (p < 0.0001). There was no positive reading for exposure to radiation from any ring that had been worn during a procedure in which the fluoroscope had been used for less than 1.7 minutes. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Flow Near the Intersection of a Free Surface with a Vertical Wall

Local solutions are constructed for flows where there is an intersection of a free surface with a vertical wall. It is common in such flows to find that a special solution exists with a stagnation point at contact, where the free surface makes an angle of $120^\circ $ with the wall. However, this solution is just a transition between a family of solutions with a nonzero tangential velocity (i.e., contact at an $180^\circ $ angle) and another family with stagnant contact at $90^\circ $. The full range of these local solutions is investigated by assuming that the velocity close to separation is small. There are only three distinct local solutions, corresponding to contact angles of $90^\circ $, $120^\circ $, and $180^\circ $. Each of these solutions is of a similarity type and, in particular, is parameterless when nondimensionalised with respect to appropriate length and velocity scales. The nontrivial local solutions with $90^\circ $ and $180^\circ $ contact angles are computed accurately here by series tr.
A review of irritable bowel syndrome and an update on therapeutic approaches

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome is a common disorder that is associated with a significant impact on both affected individuals and society. While the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome remains unknown, knowledge regarding the normal and abnormal functions of the gut and its complex interactions with the body's nervous systems continue to shed light on the multifactiorial origins of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms. Objective: This article provides an overview of the current knowledge on the therapeutic approaches to irritable bowel syndrome. Methods: A search of the online bibliographic databases MEDLINE and EMBASE was performed in order to identify all relevant articles published between 1980 and 2008. The search was enhanced with the use of a medical librarian. Bibliographies from potentially relevant articles were manually searched. Results/conclusions: The therapeutic options for irritable bowel syndrome are rapidly evolving beyond traditional symptom-based therapies, such as fiber, antispasmodics, antidiarrheals and laxatives and are moving towards agents with organ-specific receptor selectivity directed, in many cases, at specific gastrointestinal functions.
Exchange‐dependent relaxation in the rotating frame for slow and intermediate exchange – modeling off‐resonant spin‐lock and chemical exchange saturation transfer

Chemical exchange observed by NMR saturation transfer (CEST) and spin‐lock (SL) experiments provide an MRI contrast by indirect detection of exchanging protons. The determination of the relative concentrations and exchange rates is commonly achieved by numerical integration of the Bloch–McConnell equations. We derive an analytical solution of the Bloch–McConnell equations that describes the magnetization of coupled spin populations under radiofrequency irradiation. As CEST and off‐resonant SL are equivalent, their steady‐state magnetization and dynamics can be predicted by the same single eigenvalue: the longitudinal relaxation rate in the rotating frame R1ρ. For the case of slowly exchanging systems, e.g. amide protons, the saturation of the small proton pool is affected by transverse relaxation (R2b). It turns out, that R2b is also significant for intermediate exchange, such as amine‐ or hydroxyl‐exchange or paramagnetic CEST agents, if pools are only partially saturated. We propose a solution for R1ρ that includes R2 of the exchanging pool by extending existing approaches, and verify it by numerical simulations. With the appropriate projection factors, we obtain an analytical solution for CEST and SL for nonzero R2 of the exchanging pool, exchange rates in the range 1–104 Hz, B1 from 0.1 to 20 μT and arbitrary chemical shift differences between the exchanging pools, whilst considering the dilution by direct water saturation across the entire Z‐spectra. This allows the optimization of irradiation parameters and the quantification of pH‐dependent exchange rates and metabolite concentrations. In addition, we propose evaluation methods that correct for concomitant direct saturation effects. It is shown that existing theoretical treatments for CEST are special cases of this approach. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Neural-Network Algorithm for Solving Systems of Nonlinear Equations

In this paper, we present a neural-network algorithm for solving systems of nonlinear equations. The computation is carried out by simple gradient descent rule with adaptive variable step-size. In order to make the algorithm be absolutely convergent, its convergence theorem was presented and proved. The convergence theorem indicates the theory criterion selecting the magnitude of the learning rate. Some specific examples, using nonlinear equations with multi-variable, show the application of the method. The results illustrate the proposed method can solve effectively nonlinear equation systems at a very rapid convergence and very high accuracy.
The role of investments in the regulated electricity distribution business in Finland

This paper focuses on the role of investments in the regulated electricity distribution business in Finland. It introduces a method to handle investments in regulation so that sufficient network investments are encouraged but overinvestments are limited. This means that electricity distribution companies are enabled to keep their networks in proper technical shape whereas the possibility of over charge investments on end-customers is limited.
Do Dual-Thread Orthodontic Mini-Implants Improve Bone/Tissue Mechanical Retention?

Purpose:The aim of this study was to understand whether the pitch relationship between micro and macro thread designs with a parametrical relationship in a dual-thread mini-implant can improve primary stability. Materials and Methods:Three types of mini-implants consisting of single-thread (ST) (0.75 mm pitch in whole length), dual-thread A (DTA) with double-start 0.375 mm pitch, and dual-thread B (DTB) with single-start 0.2 mm pitch in upper 2-mm micro thread region for performing insertion and pull-out testing. Histomorphometric analysis was performed in these specimens in evaluating peri-implant bone defects using a non-contact vision measuring system. Results:The maximum inserted torque (Tmax) in type DTA was found to be the smallest significantly, but corresponding values found no significant difference between ST and DTB. The largest pull-out strength (Fmax) in the DTA mini-implant was found significantly greater than that for the ST mini-implant regardless of implant insertion orientation. Mini-implant engaged the cortical bone well as observed in ST and DTA types. Conclusion:Dual-thread mini-implant with correct micro thread pitch (parametrical relationship with macro thread pitch) in the cortical bone region can improve primary stability and enhanced mechanical retention.
Chemical composition, antibacterial and antifungal activities of Ruta graveolens L. volatile oils

Abstract The Ruta graveolens L. (Rutaceae) plant is used medicinally as a homeopathic remedy in various areas of the world. In this study, volatile oils were extracted from the areal parts of the plant which was collected from southern India, then investigated for its chemical constituents and antimicrobial activities. The volatile oils were extracted by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger apparatus and samples were simultaneously analyzed with GC and GC-MS. As a result, a total of 13 chemical constituents were characterized. Representing 100% of the total oil with 2-ketones are the major groups. The principal components were identified, undecanone-2 (43.66%), 2-nonanone (16.09%), 2-acetoxy tetradecanone (14.49%), and nonyl cyclopropanecarboxylate (9.22%), respectively. The extracted volatile oil showed antibacterial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, resulting in a number of common human pathogenic bacteria including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and the yeast Candida albicans. The zone of inhibition is from 12.57 ± 0.03 to 27.10 ± 0.02 mm. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were within the antimicrobial activity range and varied between 0.70 ± 0.04 and 1.58 ± 0.05 μg/mL. The essential oil showed maximum antifungal activity (35.10 ± 0.02 mm) against Candida albicans. This study indicates that R. graveolens L. essential oils could be used as a natural medical application in antimicrobial and antifungal treatments.
Orientation Discrimination and Cortical Function in the Human Newborn

There is some controversy concerning whether or not the visual abilities of the newborn are mediated entirely through subcortical pathways or whether the visual cortex is functioning at birth. A critical test of cortical functioning is discrimination of orientation: orientation-selective neurons are found in the visual cortex but not in subcortical parts of the visual system. An experiment is described in which newborn infants were habituated to a square-wave grating oriented 45° from vertical. After habituation, significant preferences for the novel, mirror-image, grating were found, a result which argues for some degree of visual cortical functioning at birth.
The Limits of Bureaucratic Efficiency

Bureaucracies tend to be used when consumers cannot be trusted to choose outcomes efficiently. But a primary means of bureaucratic oversight is consumer complaints. But this can give bureaucrats an incentive to inefficiently accede to consumer demands to avoid a complaint. I show that when this incentive is important, bureaucracies (efficiently) respond by (i) ignoring legitimate consumer complaints, (ii) monitoring more in situations in which it is not needed, (iii) delaying decision making “too long,” and (iv) biasing oversight against consumers. I also show that bureaucracies are used only when consumers cannot be trusted. As a result, observed bureaucracies are always inefficient.
Prostate cancer: localization with three-dimensional proton MR spectroscopic imaging--clinicopathologic study.

PURPOSE To assess the efficacy of combined magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and three-dimensional (3D) proton MR spectroscopic imaging in the detection and localization of prostate cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS MR imaging and 3D MR spectroscopic imaging examinations were performed in 53 patients with biopsy-proved prostate cancer and subsequent radical prostatectomy with step-section histopathologic examination. The prostate was divided into sextants. At MR imaging, the presence or absence of cancer in the peripheral zone of each sextant was assessed independently by two readers (readers 1 and 2) unaware of the findings at 3D MR spectroscopic imaging and histopathologic examination. At 3D MR spectroscopic imaging, cancer was diagnosed as possible if the ratio of choline plus creatine to citrate exceeded 2 SD above population norms or as definite if that ratio exceeded 3 SDs above the norm. RESULTS On the basis of sextants, sensitivity and specificity, respectively, for MR imaging were 77% and 61% (reader 1) and 81% and 46% (reader 2) with moderate interreader agreement (kappa = 0.43). The 3D MR spectroscopic imaging diagnosis of definite cancer had significantly higher specificity (75%, P < .05) but lower sensitivity (63%, P < .05). Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed significantly (P < .001) improved tumor localization for both readers when 3D MR spectroscopic imaging was added to MR imaging. High specificity (up to 91%) was obtained when combined MR imaging and 3D MR spectroscopic imaging indicated cancer, whereas high sensitivity (up to 95%) was obtained when either test alone indicated a positive result. CONCLUSION The addition of 3D MR spectroscopic imaging to MR imaging provides better detection and localization of prostate cancer in a sextant of the prostate than does use of MR imaging alone.
Increased glomerular permeability in patients with nephropathia epidemica caused by Puumala hantavirus.

BACKGROUND Nephropathia epidemica (NE) is the Scandinavian type of haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. Usually heavy transient proteinuria is present at the onset of the disease. METHODS We investigated glomerular permeability in eight patients with acute NE and in eight healthy controls. Six patients were followed for 1 year. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was determined by inulin clearance and effective renal plasma flow (ERPF) by para-aminohippurate clearance. RESULTS GFR and ERPF were significantly reduced in NE patients during the acute phase compared with those in controls (P<0.001 and P<0.001, respectively). The filtration fraction (FF) was thus high, 0.37. The fractional clearances of albumin, IgG, and IgG(4) were markedly increased. As a sign of tubular dysfunction, increased urinary excretion of alpha(1)-microglobulin was observed in all patients. After 1 year, the GFR of the patients no longer differed from that of the controls. ERPF was lower and FF higher than those in controls (P=0.014 and P=0.009, respectively). The fractional clearances of albumin, IgG, and IgG(4) remained increased. The high-molecular fractional dextran clearances in the patients were significantly increased compared with controls during the acute phase. Computed analysis of glomerular membrane-pore structure showed that the "shunt-flow" was increased in the patients during the acute phase compared with the controls. There was a positive correlation between the FF and the shunt (r=0.768, P=0.026). In addition, fractional clearances of albumin and IgG correlated significantly with the shunt (r=0.810, P=0.015 and r=0.762, P=0.028, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Renal involvement in the acute phase of NE is characterized by a markedly decreased GFR and ERPF. Increased glomerular permeability is associated with impairment of both the size- and charge-selectivity properties of the glomerular filter.
Sex differences of human cortical blood flow and energy metabolism

Brain energy metabolism is held to reflect energy demanding processes in neuropil related to the density and activity of synapses. There is recent evidence that men have higher density of synapses in temporal cortex than women. One consequence of these differences would be different rates of cortical energy turnover and blood flow in men and women. To test the hypotheses that rates of oxygen consumption (CMRO2) and cerebral blood flow are higher in men than in women in regions of cerebral cortex, and that the differences persist with aging, we used positron emission tomography to determine cerebral blood flow and cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen as functions of age in healthy volunteers of both sexes. Cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen did not change with age for either sex and there were no differences of mean values of cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen between men and women in cerebral cortex. Women had significant decreases of cerebral blood flow as function of age in frontal and parietal lobes. Young women had significantly higher cerebral blood flow than men in frontal and temporal lobes, but these differences had disappeared at age 65. The absent sex difference of cerebral energy turnover suggests that the known differences of synaptic density between the sexes are counteracted by opposite differences of individual synaptic activity.
Evolution of permeability in a natural fracture: Significant role of pressure solution

[1] A mechanistic model is presented to describe closure of a fracture mediated by pressure solution; closure controls permeability reduction and incorporates the serial processes of dissolution at contacting asperities, interfacial diffusion, and precipitation at the free face of fractures. These processes progress over a representative contacting asperity and define compaction at the macroscopic level, together with evolving changes in solute concentration for arbitrarily open or closed systems for prescribed ranges of driving effective stresses, equilibrium fluid and rock temperatures, and fluid flow rates. Measured fracture surface profiles are applied to define simple relations between fracture wall contact area ratio and fracture aperture that represents the irreversible alteration of the fracture surface geometry as compaction proceeds. Comparisons with experimental measurements of aperture reduction conducted on a natural fracture in novaculite [Polak et al., 2003] show good agreement if the unknown magnitude of microscopic asperity contact area is increased over the nominal fracture contact area. Predictions of silica concentration slightly underestimate the experimental results even for elevated microscopic contact areas and may result from the unaccounted contribution of free face dissolution. For the modest temperatures (20–150°C) and short duration (900 hours) of the test, pressure solution is demonstrated to be the dominant mechanism contributing to both compaction and permeability reduction, despite net dissolution and removal of mineral mass. Pressure solution results in an 80% reduction in fracture aperture from 12 μm, in contrast to a ∼10 nm contribution by precipitation, even for the case of a closed system. For the considered dissolution-dominated system, fracture closure rates are shown to scale roughly linearly with stress increase and exponentially with temperature increase, taking between days and decades for closure to reach completion.
Human Serum and Plasma Proteomics

This unit focuses on several related methods for profiling and identifying proteins in human serum or plasma. While the methods are specifically described for human serum and plasma, with the possible exception of the major protein depletion steps, they can be readily adapted to serum and plasma from other species as well as to other biological fluids. A very powerful multidimensional protein‐profiling method is described that utilizes major protein depletion coupled to two other protein separations, MicroSol IEF fractionation and SDS‐PAGE, followed by LC‐MS/MS. Other protein‐profiling strategies include the depletion of abundant proteins followed by analysis either via 2‐D gels or using offline Multidimensional Protein Identification Technology (MudPIT) or LC/LC‐MS/MS. Additional protein profiling methods and strategies are also discussed.
Effect of zein on biodegradable inserts for the delivery of tetracycline within periodontal pockets

Treatment with antibiotics within the periodontal pocket against bacterial infections represents a useful and adjunctive tool to conventional therapy for healing and teeth preservation. With this function in view, an implantable, tetracycline delivery device for the treatment of periodontal disease was developed. The aim of this study was to develop biodegradable, tetracycline-loaded microparticles made of two polymers: PLGA and zein which were compressed into monolithic devices. In this polymer delivery system, the encapsulation efficiency, release characteristics, drug–polymer interaction, and antibacterial activity of loaded drug were investigated. The interaction of tetracycline with the corn protein zein was studied by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier transform infrared, and X-ray diffraction. The hydrophobic interaction of tetracycline with zein in the formulations was deduced from the NMR studies, whereas X-ray diffraction studies showed a new crystalline state of the drug in the presence of the protein. Zein was not denatured by preparation of inserts. Sustained release of tetracycline was obtained, and the proportion of zein in the inserts had a great impact on the drug release. Finally, an effective tetracycline release from inserts against Staphylococcus aureus was achieved over 30 days. In conclusion, the PLGA:zein delivery system described in this study was found to be effective in controlled delivery of tetracycline, and hence may be suitable for intra-pocket delivery of antimicrobial agents in the treatment of periodontitis.
Management of Hodgkin lymphoma in the era of brentuximab vedotin: real-world data from five European countries

Abstract We examined real-world data on management of relapsed/refractory Hodgkin lymphoma (R/R HL) in five European countries and the consistency of these data with guideline recommendations. Retrospective clinical and epidemiologic data for 509 patients with R/R HL treated between January 2014 and March 2015 were collected at centers in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Mean age was 46.3 years; 73.3% were receiving second-line therapy for a first relapse during the reporting period. Most patients received ABVD as front-line chemotherapy, except in Germany where escalated BEACOPP was used more often. The proportion of patients receiving stem cell transplantation (SCT) was 44%; 85% of transplants occurred at first relapse. Brentuximab vedotin (BV) was usually administered after autologous SCT, and was initiated for 65% of patients following SCT failure. Our findings suggest that R/R HL management across these countries is broadly consistent with guideline recommendations and that BV is well-integrated into treatment pathways.