Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Vigilance Costs of Allogrooming in Macaque Mothers

Although primate allogrooming is a time- and energy-consuming activity, it has never been demonstrated clearly to have any reproductive costs. In this study, I tested the hypothesis that allogrooming may have reproductive costs to the performer in that it may reduce its vigilance behavior. Subjects of the study were 15 mother-infant rhesus monkey dyads belonging to four captive groups. Data were collected over the first 12 wks of lactation. When mothers groomed other individuals and their infants were away from them, maternal glance rate at the infant was markedly reduced, and infants were victims of harassment and aggression by other group members at a higher rate than during nongrooming time. In spite of a higher risk of harassment of infants, mothers did not try to minimize allogrooming time when infants were away. It is argued that, under natural conditions, the reduced vigilance associated with allogrooming may also expose an individual and its offspring to an increased risk of predation.
Hospital organizational climates and nurses' intent to stay: differences between units and wards.

PURPOSE To assess variables of hospitals' organizational climates and nurses' intent to stay in intensive care units and wards. Also, this study aims at studying the relationship between hospital organizational climate and nurse intention to stay. METHODS A descriptive comparative design was used to collect the data from a convenience sample of 349 nurses who were working in 7 hospitals in Jordan, with a response rate of 70%. Farley's Nursing Practice Environment Scale (NPES) was used to measure hospitals' organizational climates (Farly & Nyberg 1990). McCain's Behavioral Commitment Scale was used to measure nurses' intent to stay (McCloskey 1990). RESULTS Quality of care and professionalism were the most important variables that influence hospitals' organizational climates. Nurses reported that they will stay at their jobs even if these jobs did not meet their expectations. Based on the total scores, there were no significant differences between intensive care units and wards. Intensive care units and wards were different in nurses' gender, average daily census, and model of nursing care. Nurses were also different in their perceptions about some aspects of administrative support, leadership, and professionalism. Nurses in units differed from those in wards in their decisions to retain their jobs. Hospitals' organizational climates and nurses' intent to stay were significantly correlated for the whole sample and intensive care units but not for wards. CONCLUSIONS Managerial actions should be used by nursing and hospitals' administrators to enhance hospitals' organizational climates and nurses' intent to stay.These interventions include but are not limited to increasing salaries, maintaining supportive relationships between nurses and physicians, sharing nurses in policy-making and administrative decisions, creating quality assurance measures, maintaining open communication and mutual trust between nurse managers and staff, and allowing autonomy about patient care and work environments.
Comparison of multiple‐choice and essay testing in preclinical physiology

Teaching departments are periodically obliged to assess students at all levels, and with large student enrolments the use of written tests is unavoidable. Even where smaller numbers are involved it is desirable, for the sake of objectivity, to use controlled conditions to sample student performance. During the last 20 years examining methods in medical faculties, as in others, have been subjected to increasing scrutiny (Hubbard and Clemans, 1961). The traditional ’essay plus practical’ examinations with or without viva voce interviews have become progressively more difficult to administer, and their validity and reliability have also come under suspicion as a result of numerous studies (Hartog and Rhodes, 1935; Cowles and Hubbard, 1952; Illingworth, 1963). Correlation of marks given for the same set of essays by different examiners has been poor (Lennox, Anderson, and Moorhouse, 1957) even to the extent that a model essay answer, prepared by the senior examiner in a group and included incognito with the student essays, has received marks varying from fail to high distinction grade from other examiners (Bull, 1956). Furthermore, marks given for the same set of essays by the same examiners on different occasions have often shown low correlations (Bull, 1956). Attempts to improve the assessment of performance without consuming excessive time have included the replacement of tests which consist of relatively few long essays by tests consisting of an increased number of shorter
Plasma Sfrp5 levels correlate with determinants of the metabolic syndrome in Chinese adults

Secreted frizzled‐related protein‐5 (Sfrp5) is a novel adipokine, and it has been found to link insulin resistance with diabetes. Animal studies have revealed the role of Sfrp5 in regulating lipid and glucose metabolism. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between Sfrp5 and the metabolic syndrome (MetS) in a cross‐sectional study.
Effect of Parenteral Antibiotic Administration on Establishment of Intestinal Colonization in Mice by Klebsiella pneumoniae Strains Producing Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamases

ABSTRACT A mouse model was used to test the hypothesis that antibiotics with activity against anaerobes promote overgrowth of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae strains in stool. Subcutaneous clindamycin consistently promoted establishment of high-density colonization, whereas piperacillin-tazobactam, ceftriaxone, and ceftazidime promoted colonization only when a large inoculum and/or more resistant strain was administered.
Presence of receptors for bombesin/gastrin‐releasing peptide and mRNA for three receptor subtypes in human prostate cancers

Bombesin‐like peptides can function as autocrine or paracrine growth factors and stimulate the growth of some cancer cells, including human prostate cancer. Three bombesin receptor subtypes, termed gastrin‐releasing peptide receptor (GRPR), neuromedin B receptor (NMBR), and bombesin receptor subtype 3 (BRS‐3), have been identified in rodents and humans.
ADAM10 Regulates Endothelial Permeability and T-Cell Transmigration by Proteolysis of Vascular Endothelial Cadherin

Vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin is the major adhesion molecule of endothelial adherens junctions. It plays an essential role in controlling endothelial permeability, vascular integrity, leukocyte transmigration, and angiogenesis. Elevated levels of soluble VE-cadherin are associated with diseases like coronary atherosclerosis. Previous data showed that the extracellular domain of VE-cadherin is released by an unknown metalloprotease activity during apoptosis. In this study, we used gain-of-function analyses, inhibitor studies, and RNA interference experiments to analyze the proteolytic release of VE-cadherin in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We found that VE-cadherin is specifically cleaved by the disintegrin and metalloprotease ADAM10 in its ectodomain, releasing a soluble fragment and generating a carboxyl-terminal membrane-bound stub, which is a substrate for a subsequent &ggr;-secretase cleavage. This ADAM10-mediated proteolysis could be induced by Ca2+ influx and staurosporine treatment, indicating that ADAM10-mediated VE-cadherin cleavage contributes to the dissolution of adherens junctions during endothelial cell activation and apoptosis, respectively. In contrast, protein kinase C activation or inhibition did not modulate VE-cadherin processing. Increased ADAM10 expression was functionally associated with an increase in endothelial permeability. Remarkably, our data indicate that ADAM10 activity also contributes to the thrombin-induced decrease of endothelial cell–cell adhesion. Moreover, knockdown of ADAM10 in HUVECs as well as in T cells by small interfering RNA impaired T-cell transmigration. Taken together, our data identify ADAM10 as a novel regulator of vascular permeability and demonstrate a hitherto unknown function of ADAM10 in the regulation of VE-cadherin–dependent endothelial cell functions and leukocyte transendothelial migration.
Evolution of Topologies, Modeling, Control Schemes, and Applications of Modular Multilevel Converters

Modular multilevel converter (MMC) is one of the most promising topologies for medium to high-voltage high-power applications. The main features of MMC are modularity, voltage and power scalability, fault tolerant and transformer-less operation, and high-quality output waveforms. Over the past few years, several research studies are conducted to address the technical challenges associated with the operation and control of the MMC. This paper presents the development of MMC circuit topologies and their mathematical models over the years. Also, the evolution and technical challenges of the classical and model predictive control methods are discussed. Finally, the MMC applications and their future trends are presented.
The Scottish First Episode Schizophrenia Study

This is the initial report of a prospective study by computerised tomography brain scan of first episode schizophrenia. Twenty-seven patients who met Research Diagnostic Criteria for schizophrenia were compared with volunteer controls on ventricular: brain ratio, sulcal: brain volume ratio, and the widths of third ventricle and Sylvian and interhemispheric fissures. The results provide evidence that sulcal enlargement, but not ventricular abnormalities, may be detected at first admission for schizophrenic illness, and are discussed in relation to findings from other studies.
Cerebellar Lesions in Multiple System Atrophy: Postmortem MR Imaging−Pathologic Correlations

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Cerebellar atrophy and white matter T2-hyperintensities have been characterized as cerebellar lesions of multiple system atrophy (MSA). The aim of the study was to correlate MR images with histologic findings in cerebellar lesions of MSA. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Postmortem T2-weighted images using 1.5T were compared with histologic findings in 7 postmortem-proved cases with MSA. The MR imaging findings in the cerebellar cortices and deep white matter dentate nucleus regions were compared with their histologic findings in each case. RESULTS: We detected 3 types of cerebellar changes: type 1, no apparent atrophy or signal-intensity changes; type 2, cerebellar atrophy and inhomogeneous (patchy and/or confluent) cerebellar white matter hyperintensities; and type 3, cerebellar atrophy and diffuse white matter hyperintensities. Hypointensities were seen in the dentate nucleus regions. Atrophy of the cerebellar white matter was more severe than that of cerebellar cortices, and this anatomy was well depicted on coronal images. Histologically, degeneration was more severe in the cerebellar white matter than in the cerebellar cortices. Hyperintensities in the cerebellar white matter showed loss of myelinated fibers and gliosis. Hypointensities in the dentate nucleus regions revealed diffuse ferritin deposition in preserved dentate nuclei and white matter both around and within the nuclei. CONCLUSIONS: Hyperintensities in the cerebellar white matter reflect degenerated white matter associated with loss of myelinated fibers and gliosis, whereas hypointensities in the dentate nucleus regions reflect diffuse ferritin deposition in preserved dentate nuclei and white matter around and within the nuclei. Degeneration is more severe in the cerebellar white matter than in the cerebellar cortices.
Developing and Sustaining Empathy among Nurses in Kenya

Background: Empathy is a cognitive-affective response to human need for affection. Empathy is also a universal value that is acceptable across human diversity. Ability, inability or inconsistency in showing empathy is associated with a variety of factors. Nurses have occasionally been blamed of not consistently showing empathy to patients. Aim: The study aimed at analysing the factors that influence development and sustainability of empathy among nurses in Kenya. Methodology: A mixed method study approach was applied in this study. The area of study included Kenyatta National Hospital, Embu Level Five Hospital, Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital, and Tenwek mission hospital in Kenya. The target population was nurses. Quantitative study involved a stratified random sample of 386 nurses. A researcher developed self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: The study showed a positive relationship between developing and sustaining empathy. Self-concept and self-assessment empathy correlations were significant (p=0.01; ∞ =0.05). Gender was significantly correlated to empathy (p=0.000). Empathy quotient in the study sample correlated significantly to social awareness (r = 0.419, p=0.00). Average empathetic self-rating obtained through self-assessment was 8.3 (SD = 1.281). Benefits of empathy were identified; better patient outcomes and improved working environment for nurses. Factors favouring development of empathy included consistent compassion in the training environment professional support to mentees and novice nurses’ availability of compassionate mentors, willingness to empathise, cultivating empathy in social circles, personal socialisation styles and taking opportunities to show empathy. Professional support, quality of mentor-mentee interactions; the self-determination and willingness to show empathy were considered essential in cultivating empathy among peers and groups in nursing practice. Sustaining empathy in nursing practice included positive emotionality, cultivating compassion in the hospitals, continued professional development, rewarding nurses who demonstrate empathy. Conclusion: Empathy is a life skill that enables nurses to understand the perspectives of a patient and communicate that understanding in a style and fashion that patient can recognise with. Empathy is the quality and value that is increasingly responsible for cultivating altruistic qualities that enable nurses to develop and sustain professional attributes of caring, establish effective therapeutic and professional relationships. Research Article Citation: Mudau AG, Tugli AK, Mabunda J. Women’s Attitudes and Beliefs Regarding Cervical Cancer prevention at Rural Health Care Facilities in Limpopo Province of South Africa. Int J Nur Care. 2017; 1-4.
Treatment With Platelet-Rich Plasma Is More Effective Than Placebo for Knee Osteoarthritis

Background: Specific growth factors have been proposed as therapeutic proteins for cartilage repair. Hypothesis: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) provides symptomatic relief in early osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: A total of 78 patients (156 knees) with bilateral OA were divided randomly into 3 groups. Group A (52 knees) received a single injection of PRP, group B (50 knees) received 2 injections of PRP 3 weeks apart, and group C (46 knees) received a single injection of normal saline. White blood cell (WBC)–filtered PRP with a platelet count 3 times that of baseline (PRP type 4B) was administered in all. All the groups were homogeneous and comparable in baseline characteristics. Clinical outcome was evaluated using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) questionnaire before treatment and at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after treatment. They were also evaluated for pain by a visual analog scale, and overall satisfaction with the procedure and complications were noted. Results: Statistically significant improvement in all WOMAC parameters was noted in groups A and B within 2 to 3 weeks and lasting until the final follow-up at 6 months, with slight worsening at the 6-month follow-up. The mean WOMAC scores (pain, stiffness, physical function, and total score) for group A at baseline were 10.18, 3.12, 36.56, and 49.86, respectively, and at final follow-up were 5.00, 2.10, 20.08, and 27.18, respectively, showing significant improvement. Similar improvement was noted in group B (mean WOMAC scores at baseline: 10.62, 3.50, 39.10, and 53.20, respectively; mean WOMAC scores at final follow-up: 6.18, 1.88, 22.40, and 30.48, respectively). In group C, the mean WOMAC scores deteriorated from baseline (9.04, 2.70, 33.80, and 45.54, respectively) to final follow-up (10.87, 2.76, 39.46, and 53.09, respectively). The 3 groups were compared with each other, and no improvement was noted in group C as compared with groups A and B (P < .001). There was no difference between groups A and B, and there was no influence of age, sex, weight, or body mass index on the outcome. Knees with Ahlback grade 1 fared better than those with grade 2. Mild complications such as nausea and dizziness, which were of short duration, were observed in 6 patients (22.2%) in group A and 11 patients (44%) in group B. Conclusion: A single dose of WBC-filtered PRP in concentrations of 10 times the normal amount is as effective as 2 injections to alleviate symptoms in early knee OA. The results, however, deteriorate after 6 months. Both groups treated with PRP had better results than did the group injected with saline only.
The Effectiveness of Electroconvulsive Therapy in Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Naturalistic Study

Objectives: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a very effective treatment of major depressive disorder. However, its use has been declining over the years in the United Kingdom, where it is now reserved for cases where all other treatment options have failed. We wanted to assess whether ECT is still highly effective in such a severely treatment-resistant population. Methods: We report results from an ongoing, prospectively conducted, naturalistic study examining the effectiveness of ECT at a general psychiatric hospital in Cardiff, United Kingdom. We present results on every patient who received ECT between March 2004 and August 2006 for major depressive episodes, had a baseline 24-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD24) score of greater than or equal to 18 and consented for participation. Results: We analyzed the results of 38 patients who had at least 6 ECT sessions or achieved remission earlier. They had spent on average 14.6 months in their current episodes and 6.2 years of their lifetime in depression. They had failed to respond to an average of 5.4 different pharmacological treatments. Twenty-five patients (65.8%) responded (improvement in HDRS24 of ≥50%) and 21 (53.3%) achieved remission (end point HDRS24 score ≤10 and improvement in HDRS24 of ≥60%). There was no correlation between the number of unsuccessful antidepressant trials and improvement (r = −0.04, P = 0.8). Conclusions: The ECT is still highly effective in severely treatment-resistant patients with major depressive disorder, with more than half of such patients achieving remission.
Alzheimer's disease neuropathologic changes in semantic dementia

Neuropathologic change underlying primary progressive aphasia (PPA) most commonly includes one of the frontotemporal lobar degenerations, such as FTLD-tau or FTLD-ubiquitin. The next most frequent etiology of PPA is Alzheimer's disease (AD). We describe 5 subjects with clinical diagnoses of semantic dementia, who underwent longitudinal clinical evaluation and postmortem neuropathology examination of the central nervous system. This case series examines retrospectively which clinical parameters might have pointed to the neuropathological diagnosis of AD. Conclusion: family history of late onset dementia, APOEε4 status, combined features of semantic dementia and progressive non-fluent aphasia present early in illness, or generalized seizures, may indicate AD as the underlying pathology of semantic dementia.
Cytogenetic studies of bone marrow fibroblasts cultured from patients with myelofibrosis and myeloid metaplasia

Summary. Cytogenetic studies of bone marrow fibroblasts and blood cells from peripheral blood or bone marrow were performed in 19 patients with myelofibrosis with myeloid metaplasia (group 1), nine patients with other myeloproliferative syndromes without myelofibrosis (group 2), and 12 patients with anaemia secondary to iron deficiency or chronic inflammatory disease (group 3). Clonal cell populations with abnormal karyotypes were seen in the bone marrow or blood in five of 14 (36%) group 1 patients, one of nine (11%) group 2 patients and none (0%) of the group 3 patients. Abnormal karyotypes of bone marrow fibroblasts were found in three of 16 (19%) of patients of group 1, and in two of nine (22%) and two of 12 (17%) patients each of groups 2 and 3, respectively. Since abnormal karyotypes can be found in bone marrow fibroblasts cultured from normal subjects, and since the abnormalities seen in the bone marrow fibroblasts differed from those found in bone marrow or blood cells, it is suggested that abnormal karyotypes found in bone marrow fibroblasts cultured from patients with primary myelofibrosis do not necessarily reflect neoplasia. The results of this study are compatible with the widely accepted hypothesis that in patients presenting with ‘primary’ myelofibrosis, the fibrosis is a secondary reactive process.
A comparative study of interprofessional education in global health care

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners identify interprofessional (IP) collaboration in education and practice as an innovative strategy that plays an important role in mitigating the global health workforce crisis. Evidence on the practice of global health level in interprofessional education (IPE) is scarce and hampered due to the absence of aggregate information. Therefore, this systematic review was conducted to examine the incidences of IPE and summarize the main features about the IPE programs in undergraduate and postgraduate education in developed and developing countries. Methods: The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched from their inception to January 31, 2016 for relevant studies regarding the development of IPE worldwide, IPE undergraduate and postgraduate programs, IP interaction in health education, IPE content, clinical placements, and teaching methods. Countries in which a study was conducted were classified as developed and developing countries according to the definition by the United Nations (UN) in 2014. Results: A total of 65 studies from 41 countries met our inclusion criteria, including 45 studies from 25 developed countries and 20 studies from 16 developing countries. Compared with developing countries, developed countries had more IPE initiatives. IPE programs were mostly at the undergraduate level. Overall, the university was the most common academic institution that provided IPE programs. The contents of the curricula were mainly designed to provide IP knowledge, skills, and values that aimed at developing IP competencies. IPE clinical placements were typically based in hospitals, community settings, or both. The didactic and interactive teaching methods varied significantly within and across universities where they conducted IPE programs. Among all health care disciplines, nursing was the discipline that conducted most of the IPE programs. Conclusion: This systematic review illustrated that the IPE programs vary substantially across countries. Many countries, especially the academic institutions are benefiting from the implementation of IPE programs. There is a need to strengthen health education policies at global level aiming at initiating IPE programs in relevant institutions.