Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cutaneous leiomyosarcoma developing on a pacemaker pocket.

During the past few decades, the number of pacemaker implantations has increased in the world. More than 250,000 new and replacement permanent pacemakers are implanted worldwide each year. Given the improved survival in the population of patients using cardiac devices, including pacemakers, that results from the combination of widening indications for implantation of devices, earlier age at implant, and technical progress, it is important to study the long-term effects of these implants on health.
Why does TNA cross-pair more strongly with RNA than with DNA? an answer from X-ray analysis.

The remarkable properties of TNA warrant a detailed investigation of its three-dimensional structure and potential conformational plasticity. Specifically, structures of TNA may provide insight into the origins of the more stable pairing between TNA and RNA relative to that between TNA and DNA. We initially analyzed the conformational properties of TNA nucleotides in a B-form DNA dodecamer. [8] The crystal structure of the oligonucleotide with sequence CGCGAAT*TCGCG (T* = TNA T; residues of strands 1 and 2 are numbered 1–12 and 13–24, respectively) was determined at 1.20-; resolution and revealed a C4 ’-exo conformation of the threose sugar, coupled with a quasi transdiaxial orientation of the 3’ and 2’ substituents (Figure 1 A). The TNA backbone conformation can be characterized by five torsion angles (instead of the six needed for DNA; Scheme 1). The values of these angles in the single TNA thymidine residue present per strand in the B-form DNA .
Mutation update for the CSB/ERCC6 and CSA/ERCC8 genes involved in Cockayne syndrome

Cockayne syndrome is an autosomal recessive multisystem disorder characterized principally by neurological and sensory impairment, cachectic dwarfism, and photosensitivity. This rare disease is linked to mutations in the CSB/ERCC6 and CSA/ERCC8 genes encoding proteins involved in the transcription‐coupled DNA repair pathway. The clinical spectrum of Cockayne syndrome encompasses a wide range of severity from severe prenatal forms to mild and late‐onset presentations. We have reviewed the 45 published mutations in CSA and CSB to date and we report 43 new mutations in these genes together with the corresponding clinical data. Among the 84 reported kindreds, 52 (62%) have mutations in the CSB gene. Many types of mutations are scattered along the whole coding sequence of both genes, but clusters of missense mutations can be recognized and highlight the role of particular motifs in the proteins. Genotype–phenotype correlation hypotheses are considered with regard to these new molecular and clinical data. Additional cases of molecular prenatal diagnosis are reported and the strategy for prenatal testing is discussed. Two web‐based locus‐specific databases have been created to list all identified variants and to allow the inclusion of future reports (www.umd.be/CSA/ and www.umd.be/CSB/). Hum Mutat 31:113–126, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessment of Pubertal Development in Egyptian Girls

Puberty is a significant event of human growth and maturation associated with marked physiological and psychological changes. The aim of this study was to assess normal pubertal development in Egyptian girls to define normal, precocious and delayed puberty. The present study included a cross-sectional sample of 1,550 normal Egyptian girls of high and middle socioeconomic class living in Cairo. Their ages ranged from 6.5 to 18.5 years. Pubertal assessment was made according to Tanner staging. The mean menarcheal age (MMA) was estimated using probit analysis. Weight and height were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. The mean age at breast bud stage (B2) was 10.71+/-1.6, pubic hair stage (PH2) was 10.46+/-1.36, while axillary hair stage (A2) was 11.65+/-1.62 and MMA was 12.44 years. The mean age at attainment of puberty was compared with those of other Egyptian studies and other populations. Girls of the present study started pubertal development and achieved menarche earlier than those of previous Egyptian studies confirming a secular trend. Differences between the present study and other worldwide studies can be attributed to various genetic, racial, geographical, nutritional, and secular trend factors.
Human Resource Compensation and Maintenance Practices

A survey of small business firms In North-Central Indiana Indicated that, while these firms provided a work place and an Income to employees, most of their practices on compensation and maintenance of human resources lacked a systematic and rational approach. Their emphasis appeared to be more on the short run rather than on the long run. Further, small businesses seemed to lack an understanding of the relationship between productivity and generally accepted human resource management practices. In the absence of clear, written policies on human resource maintenance and compensation, small firms will continue to have personnel-related problems. Further research needs In this area are suggested.
Simultaneous Infection with Retroviruses Pseudotyped with Different Envelope Proteins Bypasses Viral Receptor Interference Associated with Colocalization of gp70 and Target Cells on Fibronectin CH-296

ABSTRACT Several factors are thought to limit the efficiency of retroviral transduction in clinical gene therapy protocols that target hematopoietic stem cells. For example, the level of expression of the amphotropic receptor Pit-2, a phosphate symporter, appears to be low in human and murine hematopoietic stem cells. We have previously demonstrated that transduction of hematopoietic cells in the presence of the fibronectin (FN) fragment CH-296 is extremely efficient (H. Hanenberg, X. L. Xiao, D. Dilloo, K. Hashino, I. Kato, and D. A. Williams, Nat. Med. 2:876–882, 1996). To examine functionally whether the retrovirus receptor is a limiting factor in transduction of hematopoietic cells, we performed competition experiments in the presence of FN CH-296 with retrovirus vectors pseudotyped with the same or a different envelope protein. We demonstrate in both human erythroleukemia (HEL) cells and primary human CD34+hematopoietic cells inhibition of efficient infection due to receptor interference when two vectors targeting the amphotropic receptor are used simultaneously. Receptor interference lasted up to 24 h. No interference was demonstrated when vectors targeting the amphotropic receptor and the gibbon ape leukemia virus (GALV) receptor Pit-1 were used concurrently. In contrast, simultaneous infection with vectors targeting both Pit-1 and Pit-2 yielded transduction efficiencies consistently higher than with either vector alone in both HEL cells and human CD34+ hematopoietic cells. These data demonstrate that the use of FN CH-296 leads to amphotropic receptor saturation in these cells. Simultaneous infection with vectors targeting both amphotropic and GALV receptors may prove to be of additional benefit in the design of gene therapy protocols.
Contemporary thinking about the role of genes and environment in eating disorders

Summary Objective – To review recent literature documenting how family, twin and molecular genetic studies of eating disorders have revolutionized our conceptualizations of anorexia and bulimia nervosa. Methods – We summarized extant litera-ture on genetic epidemiology of eating disorders. Results – Results of extant studies highlight the underlying biological vulnera- bilities associated with these conditions. Genetic research has also opened up new avenues and approaches for exploring how the environment exerts its influence on risk. Conclusions – We discuss state-of-the-science findings in the genetics of eating disorders, explore various mechanisms of gene-environment interplay, and discuss implications of this research for science, practice, families and individuals with eating disorders.
In vitro Manipulation of Rumen Fermentation Efficiency by Fumaric acid – Bentonite Coupled Addition as an Alternative to Antibiotics

Short term in vitro incubations were used to evaluate the effect of fumaric acid - bentonite coupled addition on rumen fermentation effeciency. Ruminal contents from five steers were used for preparation of inoculums of mixed rumen microorganisms that were used in generatation of three treatment systems, negative control, fumaric acid treated, and fumaric acid – bentonite coupled treated. The fermentation pattern revealed that, this coupled addition was associated with an additional increase in propionic acid production and fermentation efficiency and was related to an additional decrease in methanogenesis and VFAs utilization index. Furthermore, it increased total VFAs concentrations and decreased pH value, ammonia nitrogen (NH3–N) concentrations and butyrate proportions. Meanwhile, it did not alter the proportions of long chain VFAs or cellulase activity. Conclusively, this coupled addition would improve the impact of fumaric acid on rumen fermentation pattern and can be appropriate alternative for antibiotic feed additives in improving ruminants feed efficiency.
Silicon fertilization and soil water tensions on rice development and yield

The cultivation of upland rice (Oryza sativa) in Brazil occurs mainly in the Cerrado, a region with adverse weather conditions. The use of silicon in its cultivation becomes important, since this nutrient provides higher rigidity, lower transpiration and higher resistance to dry spells in rice plants. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of silicon fertilization and soil water tensions on upland rice development and yield in a Cerrado Oxisol. A 5 x 5 fractionated factorial with five soil water tensions (0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 kPa) and five silicon doses (0, 120, 240, 480 and 960 mg dm-3) was used, which were distributed in a randomized block design, with four replicates. Plant height, number of tillers, number of panicles, number of grains per panicle, numbers of full and empty grains and percentage of empty grains were evaluated. Silicon fertilization promotes increased tillering in rice plants at the dose of 960 mg dm-3. The numbers of tillers and panicles decreased with the application of silicon up to the doses of 460 and 490 mg dm-3, respectively. The increase in soil water tensions reduced plant height and the number of full grains, and increased the percentage of empty grains of upland rice.
Evidence-Based Management of Infertility in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Using Surgery or Assisted Reproductive Technology

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has been managed surgically since the development of wedge resection in the 1930s. Second-line surgical interventions for anovulation associated with PCOS include laparoscopic ovarian diathermy, which is as effective as medical induction of ovulation with gonadotropins, with a much reduced risk of multiple pregnancy. Bariatric surgery may be considered for morbidly obese patients with PCOS, although further research assessing such surgery specifically in PCOS patients is needed. Assisted reproduction, in the form of IVF with or without intracytoplasmic sperm injection, is usually indicated as third-line medical treatment or in the presence of other infertility factors. There is an ongoing debate concerning the relative merits of IVF and ovulation induction in PCOS, comparing the higher multiple pregnancy rate of ovulation induction with the greater cost and psychological stress of IVF.
An Overview of Virginia Agritourism: Results From the 2013 Profitability Survey

Produced by Communications and Marketing, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 2015 Virginia Cooperative Extension programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. An equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia State University, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture cooperating. Edwin J. Jones, Director, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg; Jewel E. Hairston, Administrator, 1890 Extension Program, Virginia State, Petersburg.
PENGARUH KEPEMILIKAN MANAGERIAL, KEPEMILIKAN INSTITUSIONAL, KEBIJAKAN HUTANG, PROFITABILITAS,UKURAN PERUSAHAAN DAN KESEMPATAN INVESTASIPADAKEBIJAKAN DIVIDEN

This research aims to know the influence of managerial ownership, institutional ownership, debt policy, profitability, firm size and the investment opportunity on dividend policy. Measuring dividend policy as seen from the dividend Payout Ratio. Data collection methods of this study using pooled data of non financial companies listed on the Indonesia stock exchange in 2007 up to 2011. Data obtained from the Indonesian Capital Market Directory. As many as 21 companies used as samples. This research method using multiple regression analysis. The result of this research show that institusional ownership have positive effect on dividend policy while the debt policy have negative effect on dividend policy. The results also show that managerial ownership, profitability, firm size and investment opportunity didn’t have significant effect on dividend policy. Keywords: dividend policy, institutional ownership, managerial ownership, debt policy, profitability, firm size, investment opportunity
Asymmetry Reversals and the Business Cycle

The cross-sectional dynamics of the U.S. business cycle is examined through the lens of quantile regression models. Conditioning the quantiles of firm-level growth to different measures of technological change highlights a deep connection between counter-cyclical skewness and the transmission of aggregate disturbances. Asymmetry reversals emerge as the dominant source of cyclical variation in the probability density, generating a powerful amplification of aggregate shocks to firm technology. Designing and validating heterogeneous firm business cycle models should necessarily account for this empirical finding.
Acceptance of Information System Modules in Logistics Program: Perceptions From Logistics and Supply Chain Undergraduate Students

In most universities, Information System module is embedded into the curriculum for undergraduate logistics and supply chain students. This study applies perceived users towards technology based on the Information System Success Model and intention to use the technology based on the Technology Acceptance Model. Dimensions in these two models are used to study how Information System module influences undergraduate logistics and supply chain student desire to learn it. Data was gathered through questionnaires from 181 logistics and supply chain undergraduate students from a private university. Respondents provided answers by perceiving the user satisfaction, system quality and information quality towards intention to study Information System module. Results indicated that system quality and user satisfaction are positively associated with students’ intention to study. The standardized coefficients for system quality was higher (β = .28) compared to user satisfaction (β = .19) toward intention to use at . 05 level. The study implies that improve system quality and user satisfaction in SPA 8i to attract students for learning the module.
Antecedents and effects of social network fatigue

Guided by literature on “fatigue” from within the domains of clinical and occupational studies, the present article seeks to define the phenomenon termed social network fatigue in the context of one of the popular uses of social networks, namely, to stay socially connected. This is achieved through an identification of the antecedents and effects of experiences that contribute to negative emotions or to a reduction in interest in using social networks with the help of a mixed‐methods study. Five generic antecedents and varying effects of these antecedents on individual user activities have been identified. Fatigue experiences could result from social dynamics or social interactions of the members of the community, content made available on social networks, unwanted changes to the platform that hosts the network, self‐detected immersive tendencies of the users themselves, or a natural maturing of the life cycle of the community to which the user belongs. The intensity of the fatigue experience varies along a continuum ranging from a mild or transient experience to a more severe experience, which may eventually result in the user's decision to quit the environment that causes stress. Thus, users were found to take short rest breaks from the environment, moderate their activities downward, or suspend their social network activities altogether as a result of fatigue experiences.
Plantar pressures in the tennis serve

Abstract In-shoe loading patterns were examined in each foot (back and front) separately during two types of tennis serve [first (or flat) and second (or twist) serve] and two service stance styles [foot-up (back foot is moved forward next to front foot for push-off) and foot-back (feet remain at the same relative level)]. Ten competitive tennis players completed five trials for each type of serve and service stance style in random order. Plantar pressure distribution was recorded using Pedar insoles divided into nine areas for analysis. Mean and peak pressures (+15.2%, P < 0.01 and +12.8%, P < 0.05) as well as maximal forces (+20.2%, P < 0.01) were higher under the lateral forefoot of the front foot in first than in second serves, while mean forces were higher (+17.2%, P < 0.05) under the lesser toes. Relative load was higher on the lateral forefoot (+20.4%, P < 0.05) but lower (−32.5%, P < 0.05) on the medial heel of the front foot with foot-up compared with foot-back stance. Using a foot-up stance, loading of the back foot was higher (+31.8%, P < 0.01) under the lateral mid-foot but lower (−29.9%, P < 0.01) under the medial forefoot. The type of serve and the stance style adopted have a significant effect on foot loading. Such findings might help improve mechanical efficiency of the serve.
Do Risk Disclosures Matter When it Counts? Evidence from the Swiss Franc Shock

We examine the relation between disclosure quality and information asymmetry among market participants following an exogenous shock to macroeconomic risk. In 2015 the Swiss National Bank abruptly announced that it would abandon the longstanding minimum euro-Swiss franc exchange rate. We find evidence suggesting that firms with more transparent disclosures regarding their foreign exchange risk exposure ex ante exhibit significantly lower information asymmetry ex post. The information gap in bid-ask spreads appears within 30 minutes of the announcement and persists for two weeks, during which new information gradually substitutes for past disclosures. We validate the information dynamics of past risk disclosures with three field surveys: (1) Sell-side analysts emphasize the importance of existing (risk) disclosures in evaluating the translational and transactional effects of the currency shock. (2) Lending banks’ credit officers rely on past disclosures as the primary information source available for smaller (unlisted) firms in the immediate aftermath of the shock. (3) Investor-relations managers use existing financial filings as a key resource when communicating with external stakeholders. The results suggest that historical disclosures help investors attenuate information asymmetry in light of unexpected news.
Is reduced cerebral perfusion pressure better tolerated during hypothermia?

The finite tolerance of the brain for reduced cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) is one of the key issues that complicates management of the critically ill neurologic or neurosurgical patient. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) intensifies the problem by apparently increasing the vulnerability of the traumatized adult (1) or pediatric (2, 3) brain to reductions in CPP. In this issue of Critical Care Medicine, Dr. Bauer and colleagues (4) present data suggesting that mild hypothermia (~32C) improves the tolerance of the brain for reduced CPP, produced in juvenile swine by increasing intracranial pressure while controlling mean arterial pressure (MAP). That conclusion, however, must be viewed in the context of other studies of cerebral pressure autoregulation under normothermic and hypothermic conditions in the normal and traumatized brain.
The Mutual Impacts of Corporate Governance Dimensions and Legal Protection Systems on the Performance of European Banks: A Post-Crisis Study

The paper provides new evidence on the relation between corporate governance practices, legal rights and European banks’ performance during the post-crisis period. Using a sample of 935 banks in 30 European countries, the results reveal that at a high level of legal protection European banks are more able to follow the international recommendations and codes of corporate governance practices and vice-versa.Additional analysis shows that all the corporate governance variables have the same impacts on the banks’ performance. At low, middle and high levels of legal protection, the results reveal positive impacts of committees’ number (such as remuneration, nomination and audit committee) and independent members of banks’ boards.The other dimensions of corporate governance (ownership concentration, executive pay and CEO duality) do not have any impact on bank performance. Only at the low level of legal protection the results show a negative impact on board size on European banks’ performance.
Effect of antiviral treatment of chronic hepatitis C on the frequency of regulatory T cells, T‐cell activation, and serum levels of TGF‐beta

The aim was to analyze T‐regulatory cells (Tregs), activated CD8+ T cells, and transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF)‐β in hepatitis C patients. We enrolled 31 patients with chronic genotype 1 hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, 30 seropositive persons with spontaneous HCV elimination, and 23 healthy volunteers. The patients were examined at the beginning of the interferon‐alpha (IFN‐α)‐based therapy (baseline) and at weeks 4 (W4) and 12 (W12) of the therapy. The percentage of Tregs and the expression of activation markers CD38 and HLA‐DR on CD8+ T cells were analyzed in the peripheral blood by flow cytometry. Serum levels of TGF‐β were measured in a multiplex assay using flow cytometry. The percentage of Tregs in patients was higher than in controls and seropositive persons. Similarly, the percentage of CD8+ T cells expressing CD38 and HLA‐DR was higher in patients compared with controls and seropositive persons. Chronic HCV infection is associated with elevated circulating Tregs and activated CD8+ T cells. During IFN‐α‐based therapy these cells gradually increase, whereas TGF‐β serum levels decrease.
Ischemic kidney injury and mechanisms of tissue repair

Acute kidney injury (AKI) may result from ischemia or by the use of nephrotoxic agents. The incidence of AKI is variable, depends on comorbidities, and ranges from 5 to 35% in all hospitalized patients. The mechanisms of kidney injury exist within a large network of signaling pathways driven by interplay of inflammatory cytokines/chemokines, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and apoptotic factors. The effects and progression of injury overlap extensively with the remarkable ability of the kidney to repair itself both by intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms that involve specific cell receptors/ligands as well as possible paracrine influences. The fact that kidney injury is usually part of a generalized comorbid condition makes it all the more challenging in terms of assessment of severity. In this review, we attempt to analyze the mechanisms of ischemic injury and repair in acute and chronic kidney disease from the perspectives of both preclinical and human studies. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2011 3 606–618 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.133