Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
An Audit of Rational Use of Antibiotics in a Tertiary Hospital

Background: Drug can cure ailment when used rationally on the other hand they may become harmful or even may threaten a life when used irrationally. Absence of guidelines for antibiotic use, protocols for rational therapeutics and infection control committees, have led to overuse and misuse of antimicrobials even in different specialized units in hospitals. Objective: The study has been designed to get a picture of use of antibiotics in a tertiary care hospital of Bangladesh. Materials and method: Cross sectional study was conducted in the department of Medicine of Sir Salimullah Medical College and Mitford Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, for 3 months from 1st January 2009 to 31st March 2009. Admitted patients of Medicine unit-1 who got antibiotics were included in the study. Total number of patients was 1563. Results: Five hundred out of 1563 patients were prescribed antibiotics (38%). Out of 500 prescriptions, 68(14%) prescriptions were found irrational. Conclusion: Continuous surveillance should be carried out to reduce the irrational use of antibiotics. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.3329/dmcj.v2i2. 20526 Delta Med Col J. Jul 2014; 2(2): 64-67
Downregulation of ATP-Binding Cassette Subfamily C Member 4 Increases Sensitivity to Neoadjuvant Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Rectal Carcinoma

OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to verify the effect of ATP-binding cassette subfamily C member 4 on radiosensitivity of locally advanced rectal carcinoma. SETTING: The expression of ATP-binding cassette subfamily C member 4 protein in 121 pretreatment tissue samples from locally advanced rectal carcinoma patients was detected by immunohistochemistry. DESIGN: Pathological response to radiotherapy was evaluated according to tumor regression grading by postoperative histological examinations after they received long-course preoperative neoadjuvant radiotherapy, and the association between clinicopathological data and tumor regression grading was analyzed retrospectively. For further validation, short hairpin RNA was constructed and transfected into colorectal carcinoma cell line HT29. The knockdown efficiency was confirmed at both RNA and protein levels. The altered radiosensitivity was evaluated by methylthiazolyl tetrazolium assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, and Hoechst 33258 staining. RESULTS: Univariate analysis revealed that ATP-binding cassette subfamily C member 4 expression (p < 0.001), P53 type (p = 0.069), and CEA (p = 0.100) were possibly associated with tumor regression grading, and multivariate analysis demonstrated that ATP-binding cassette subfamily C member 4 expression (p < 0.001) and P53 type (p = 0.039) were positively correlated with response to neoadjuvant radiotherapy in locally advanced rectal carcinoma patients. Lentiviral vector was successfully introduced into HT29 cells and inhibited ATP-binding cassette subfamily C member 4 expression efficiently and persistently. Downregulation of ATP-binding cassette subfamily C member 4 expression significantly enhanced inhibition of cell proliferation, decreased colony formation capacity, and increased cell apoptosis induced by irradiation, as examined by a series of experiments in vitro. In addition, radiobiological parameters calculated according to the single-hit multitarget model were also decreased significantly. CONCLUSIONS: Our data indicate that ATP-binding cassette subfamily C member 4 may be a useful molecular marker in predicting radiosensitivity, and a potential target in improving the response to neoadjuvant radiotherapy in locally advanced rectal carcinoma patients.
Self-supervised Graph Representation Learning for Black Market Account Detection

Nowadays, Multi-purpose Messaging Mobile App (MMMA) has become increasingly prevalent. MMMAs attract fraudsters and some cybercriminals provide support for frauds via black market accounts (BMAs). Compared to fraudsters, BMAs are not directly involved in frauds and are more difficult to detect. This paper illustrates our BMA detection system SGRL (Self-supervised Graph Representation Learning) used in WeChat, a representative MMMA with over a billion users. We tailor Graph Neural Network and Graph Self-supervised Learning in SGRL for BMA detection. The workflow of SGRL contains a pretraining phase that utilizes structural information, node attribute information and available human knowledge, and a lightweight detection phase. In offline experiments, SGRL outperforms state-of-the-art methods by 16.06%-58.17% on offline evaluation measures. We deploy SGRL in the online environment to detect BMAs on the billion-scale WeChat graph, and it exceeds the alternative by 7.27% on the online evaluation measure. In conclusion, SGRL can alleviate label reliance, generalize well to unseen data, and effectively detect BMAs in WeChat.
Spatial modeling and future projection of extreme precipitation extents

Extreme precipitation events with large spatial extents may have more severe impacts than localized events as they can lead to widespread flooding. It is debated how climate change may affect the spatial extent of precipitation extremes, whose investigation often directly relies on simulations from climate models. Here, we use a different strategy to investigate how future changes in spatial extents of precipitation extremes differ across climate zones and seasons in two river basins (Danube and Mississippi). We rely on observed precipitation extremes while exploiting a physics-based mean temperature covariate, which enables us to project future precipitation extents. We include the covariate into newly developed time-varying r-Pareto processes using a suitably chosen spatial aggregation functional r. This model captures temporal non-stationarity in the spatial dependence structure of precipitation extremes by linking it to the temperature covariate, which we derive from observations for model calibration and from debiased climate simulations (CMIP6) for projections. For both river basins, our results show negative correlation between the spatial extent and the temperature covariate for most of the rain season and an increasing trend in the margins, indicating a decrease in spatial precipitation extent in a warming climate during rain seasons as precipitation intensity increases locally.
Neutralizing antibodies against interferon beta: fluctuation is modest and titre dependent

Background and purpose: Neutralizing antibody (NAb) titres may vary over time and thereby some patients can either lose or regain therapeutic effect of interferon beta (IFNβ). We assessed NAb titres in a large sample of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients to identify the pattern of fluctuation during 1–3 years.
CSF total and phosphorylated tau protein, regional glucose metabolism and dementia severity in Alzheimer’s disease

Background and purpose: We investigated associations between severity of cognitive impairment, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentrations of total‐tau (t‐tau) protein and tau phosphorylated at threonin 181 (p‐tau181) and regional glucose metabolism measured with 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography (18F‐FDG‐PET) in patients with probable Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
“Before the war we had it all”: Family planning among couples in a post-conflict setting

ABSTRACT There is little evidence about family planning knowledge, attitudes, and use among couples in post-conflict Democratic Republic of the Congo. We used qualitative descriptions to analyze data from 75 participants. Intimate partner violence (IPV) was common among participants. They were aware of family planning methods; however, IPV and fears of side effects were barriers to use. Although participants were concerned about the cost of large families, had positive attitudes toward family planning, and intended to use it, actual use was uncommon. The need for family planning was acute because of war-related poverty. Couples negotiated, but men had strong influence over family planning decisions. Couples saw health workers as a valuable resource. Interventions in this setting should include a couple-based approach that addresses IPV as well as family planning content.
Balance training in stroke patients – a systematic review of randomized, controlled trials

The purpose of this review was to investigate and summarize the scientific evidence base for physiotherapy interventions aimed at restoring balance after stroke without extensive technical equipment. A search was performed in the Medline, Cochrane, Cinahl and PEDro databases. Key words were “stroke”, “balance” and, “physiotherapy”. The search was limited to randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) in English. For classifying study quality and relevance, the PEDro scale was used for methodological ratings and power analyses were noted. Fourteen RCTs of 360 titles were included. Six studies were of high quality and six were of medium quality. Results in the acute phase showed evidence regarding supported standing for severely impaired patients. In the sub-acute phase, intense, supervised home-exercise programmes were superior to standard care. Several activity-focused approaches to balance challenges were efficient. It also appeared possible for post-stroke persons in the late phase to improve their balance. All but one study showed at least one statistically significant or clinically relevant improvement within or between groups. This systematic review suggests that balance following stroke could be improved by a variety of physiotherapeutic interventions performed without the use of extensive technical equipment.
Non-attendance at a diabetes transitional clinic and glycaemic control

Young patients with diabetes are particularly vulnerable to long-term complications, and require a carefully planned transition to adult diabetes care. As clinic non-attendance has been identified as an issue for transitional clinics, we audited our well established clinic to look at non-attendance rates, and to examine the characteristics of those who miss transitional clinic appointments. We conducted a retrospective analysis of audit data from the diabetes transitional clinic in January to December 2004, and September 2007 to September 2008. The results showed that 40/53 patients missed at least one appointment in 2004, compared to 19/61 in 2007–8 (p<0.0001). There was no reduction in HbA1c in this group (2004: median HbA1c 9.4% [range 6.8–13.2%]; 2007–8: median HbA1c 9.7% [range 5.7–14.0%[). In 2007–8, the non-attender group had higher HbA1c (full attenders: median [range] HbA1c 8.9% [5.7–12.7%]; those who missed at least one appointment: HbA1c 10.3% [7.7–14.0%]; p<0.001), and were older (non-attenders mean [SD] 18.0 [1.10] years, full attenders 17.3 [1.17] years). Sex and type of diabetes did not affect ‘did not attend’ rates. Those who miss diabetes transitional clinic appointments have poorer glycaemic control, although non-attendance is complex and may be due to a variety of reasons. New strategies to help young people deal with their diabetes are needed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons.
Physical activity practiced by incarcerated women: A systematic review

ABSTRACT Our aim doing this systematic review was to identify and analyze studies about women prison inmates' engagement in sport and physical activities (SPAs). The review was conducted in three areas – SPAs, prison and women – and based on information obtained from different databases. Through a selection process, we singled out 33 empirical and review studies, the quality of which was analyzed. From our analysis, we learn that the benefits women prison inmates derive from SPAs are considerable, although they also reveal that obstacles exist to be overcome if their levels of participation are to rise.
Risk of Morbidity, Mortality, and Recurrence After Parastomal Hernia Repair: A Nationwide Study

BACKGROUND: Surgical outcome results after repair for parastomal hernia are sparsely reported and based on small-scale studies. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to analyze surgical risk factors for 30-day reoperation and mortality, and, secondarily, to report the risk of reoperation for recurrence. DESIGN: This is a retrospective analysis of nationwide perioperative surgical variables. The primary outcome was reoperation for surgical complications and/or mortality within 30 days after parastomal hernia repair. Follow-up was obtained from the Danish National Patient Register. Detailed patient-related data were based on hospital files. Multivariate analysis was based on a compound parameter: 30-day reoperation or death. SETTING AND PATIENTS: All patients with a parastomal hernia repair registered in the Danish Hernia Database from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2010 were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Univariate and logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for 30-day reoperation or death. RESULTS: The study included 174 patients with a parastomal hernia repair (142 elective and 32 emergency repairs; 56 open and 118 laparoscopic repairs). Median follow-up was 20 months (range, 0–47). A total of 13.2% were reoperated because of postoperative complications, and 6.3% of patients died within the first 30 postoperative days. Emergency repair was the strongest risk factor for reoperation or death in multivariate analyses (OR, 7.6; 95% CI, 2.7–21.5). No difference was found in preoperative risk of poor outcome between elective and emergency repairs (Charlson score 4 (range, 0–12) vs 5 (0–11), p = 0.07). After 3 years, the cumulated reoperation rate for recurrence was 10.8% (open 17.2% and laparoscopic 3.8%). LIMITATIONS: Patients’ comorbidity was based on retrospective data, and the study had a relatively short follow-up. CONCLUSION: In the present nationwide study, repair for a parastomal hernia was associated with high rates of morbidity, mortality, and repair for recurrence. Emergency repair was the only important risk factor to predict poor 30-day postoperative outcome.
Predictors and outcomes of excess gestational weight gain among low-income pregnant women

ABSTRACT Low-income women were interviewed and their post-natal records were retrieved (n = 160) to assess prevalence of excess gestational weight gain and its socio-demographic predictors. More than half of the women (64%) gained excess weight during pregnancy, with an average of 10 lbs in excess of Institute of Medicine guidelines. Logistic regression indicated that women that started pregnancy at an obese body mass index; who were African American or having an unplanned pregnancy were at significant risk of gaining excess weight in pregnancy. Intervention to prevent excess weight gain during pregnancy is critical in addressing obesity epidemic in the United States and worldwide.
Patch Testing With the Standard Series When Receiving Immunosuppressive Medications

BackgroundDebate surrounds the validity of patch testing for allergic contact dermatitis in patients taking immunosuppressants and the extent to which these medications suppress patch test reactions. Previous studies have demonstrated that corticosteroids can suppress immune reactions measured in patch testing. Because immunomodulators are increasingly used, their impact on patch testing also requires evaluation. ObjectivesThis study aimed to report patch test results in patients taking specific immunosuppressants and to review relevant literature. MethodsA retrospective review of patients patch tested with the standard series at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2011, was conducted. ConclusionsPositive patch test results occur during methotrexate therapy. How reactions would differ with no immunosuppression is unclear.
Contact Dermatitis Caused by Preservatives

Preservatives are biocidal chemicals added to food, cosmetics, and industrial products to prevent the growth of microorganisms. They are usually nontoxic and inexpensive and have a long shelf life. Unfortunately, they commonly cause contact dermatitis. This article reviews the most important classes of preservatives physicians are most likely to encounter in their daily practice, specifically isothiazolinones, formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasers, iodopropynyl butylcarbamate, methyldibromoglutaronitrile, and parabens. For each preservative mentioned, the prevalence of sensitization, clinical presentation of contact dermatitis, patch testing concentrations, cross reactions, and related legislation will be discussed. Mandatory labeling of preservatives is required in some countries, but not required in others. Until policies are made, physicians and patients must be proactive in identifying potential sensitizers and removing their use. We hope that this article will serve as a guide for policy makers in creating legislation and future regulations on the use and concentration of certain preservatives in cosmetics and industrial products.
Endemicity of cleft lip/palate in a rural community in South-East Ghana

The causal factors and magnitude of malformation of cleft lip (hare lip) amongst some inhabitants of Wudoaba, a village in south-eastern Ghana was investigated because most women visiting the night market in the village claimed some of their counterparts had cleft lip (hare-lip) while some spoke through their nose. The market is called a “ghost market” due to the nasal sound produced by the speech of the people. Using purposive and accidental random sampling technique and questionnaire interviews, some citizens, traditional rulers and opinion leaders were interviewed. Of the 13 interviewed three were females and 10 males with ages between 20 and 70. Secondly, 11 of the13 respondents were married, with one being single and one co-habiting. Out of the 12 that were “married”, five were not related, six were cross-cousins and one was a linear-cousin. Sixteen of the market women had “nasal ghost speeches” and nine had cleft lips. The market women claimed that about 20 of their colleagues also had cleft lips. Wudoaba may be cleft endemic and the cause of malformation could be genetic. Most of the victims were treated as social outcasts hence the “cover” night markets. A vigorous health education awareness campaign is needed and for those with the disease to undergo plastic surgery. Journal of Science and Technology(Ghana) Vol. 27 (1) 2007: pp. 45-50
Patch Testing Custom Isocyanate Materials From the Workplace

BackgroundPatch testing with standard trays of commercially available allergens is the current practice for investigating suspected cases of isocyanate-induced allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). In some facilities, these standard trays are further supplemented with custom preparations of isocyanate-containing materials. ObjectiveThe aim was to determine whether added value exists in patch testing patients to custom isocyanate preparations in suspected cases of ACD. MethodsWe performed a retrospective analysis of 11 patients referred to our specialty clinic between January 2003 and March 2011 for suspected patients of ACD who had custom testing with isocyanate materials from their workplace. In addition to standard trays of allergens, all patients were patch tested with custom isocyanate materials from their workplaces. ResultsThree (27%) of 11 patients showed an added value in testing to custom isocyanate allergens. Of these 3 patients, one had a reaction that reinforced positive reactions to the standard isocyanate tray, but the other 2 (18%) had no reactions to any of the commercially available allergens. ConclusionsBecause of the high proportion of reactions (27%), we recommend the use of custom testing to workplace isocyanate products as a supplement to current standard patch testing procedures.
Differences in Sleep and Circadian Preference between Eastern and Western German Adolescents

Only a few studies focus on comparisons to reveal differences in sleep and circadian preferences in adolescents. This study used the same instrument to compare adolescents in Eastern and Western Germany. In all, 674 pupils between 11 and 16 yrs participated. The questionnaire asked questions about wake times and bed times (on weekend and weekdays), and the Composite Scale of Morningness (CSM) was completed to assess diurnal preferences. Locality (East/West Germany) had no effect on rise and bed times during the week and on sleep length on the weekend. Western pupils rose later on weekends and went to bed later on weekends. While sleep length on weekdays was shorter in West Germany, weekend oversleep was longer and misalignment was higher. Diurnal preferences (CSM scores) suggested a higher eveningness in West Germany. As interaction effects were insignificant, changes throughout adolescence seem similar in East and West Germany. These data suggest that given similar school start times, Western German pupils are at higher risk because they are later chronotypes. The finding of earlier rise and bed times of the East German pupils is consistent with the hypothesis that sunlight acts as the entrainment for the biological clock of adolescents, as sunrise is earlier in Eastern Germany.
Two different doses of Amitriptyline ER in the prophylaxis of migraine: long‐term results and predictive factors

Background and purpose: The rationale for our study was to examine the prophylactic benefit of two doses of amitriptyline over a 6‐month observational period in patients with migraine. We aimed at evaluating whether 50 mg of amitryptiline extended release was more effective than 25 mg in reducing the number of migraine days.
Economic decision-making in morning/evening-type people as a function of time of day

ABSTRACT Decision-making is affected by psychological factors like emotional state or cognitive control, which may also vary with circadian rhythmicity. Here, we tested the influence of chronotype (32 morning-type versus 32 evening-type) and time of day (9 a.m. versus 5 p.m.) on interpersonal decision-making as measured by the Ultimatum Game. Participants had to accept or reject different economic offers proposed by a virtual participant. Acceptance involved distribution of gains as proposed, whereas rejection resulted in no gain for either player. The results of the game showed a deviation from rational performance, as participants usually rejected the unfair offers. This behaviour was similar for both chronotype groups, and in both times of day. This result may reflect the robustness of decision-making strategies across standard circadian phases under ecological conditions. Furthermore, morning-types invested more time than evening-types to respond to high-uncertainty offers. This more cautious decision-making style of morning-types fits with our finding of higher proactive control as compared to evening-types when performing the AX-Continuous Performance Task. In line with the literature on personality traits, our results suggest that morning-types behave with more conscientiousness and less risk-taking than evening-type individuals.
Chronic cognitive sequelae after traumatic brain injury are not related to growth hormone deficiency in adults

Objective: The objective of the study was to asses the possible influence of hypothalamo–pituitary deficiencies, and growth hormone (GH) deficiency in particular, on cognition in adult patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBI is a recently identified risk factor for cognitive deficits and hypopituitarism. Even the patients with favorable outcome after TBI may present with persistent bodily, psychosocial, and cognitive impairments, resembling patients with untreated partial or complete pituitary insufficiency.