Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the redox status in patients with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes reveals great variations

The aim of the present study was to examine the effectiveness of a new redox status marker, the static oxidation reduction potential (sORP), for assessing oxidative stress in 75 patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). A total of 35 normal subjects were used as the controls. Moreover, conventional markers of oxidative stress were assessed, such as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), protein carbonyls, the total antioxidant capacity in plasma, glutathione (GSH) levels and catalase (CAT) activity in erythrocytes. The results revealed that sORP was significantly higher (by 13.4%) in the patients with MetS and T2D compared to the controls, indicating an increase in oxidative stress. This finding was also supported by the significantly lower levels (by 27.7%) of GSH and the higher levels (by 23.3%) of CAT activity in the patients with MetS and T2D compared to the controls. Moreover, our results indicated a great variation in oxidative stress markers between the different patients with MetS and T2D, particarly as regards the GSH levels. Thus, the patients with MetS and T2D were divided into 2 subgroups, one with low GSH levels (n=31; GSH <3 µmol/g Hb) and another with high GSH levels (n=35; GSH >4 µmol/g Hb). The comparison of the markers between the 2 subgroups indicated that in the low GSH group, the GSH levels were significantly lower (by 51.7 and 52.9%) than those in the high GSH group and the controls, respectively. Furthermore, sORP in the low GSH group was significantly higher (by 8.1%) compared to the high GSH group, suggesting its sensitivity for assessing oxidative stress in patients wtih MetS and T2D. Moreover, this variation in oxidative stress levels between the different patients with T2D suggests that the assessment of the redox status may be important in prediabetic conditions, since there is evidence indicating that differences in the redox status in pre-diabetes may result in different outcomes.
Conflict style differences between individualists and collectivists

This study investigated the fundamental beliefs regarding cross-cultural differences in conflict styles. The sample consisted of 188 graduate students from 31 different countries residing in the U.S. Findings indicated that assumptions regarding the relationship of culture to conflict style preferences may not be valid. Preference for using five conflict styles were measured: avoiding, obliging, integrating, compromising, and dominating. The integrating style is generally the most preferred; obliging and avoiding are next, followed by compromising and dominating. Avoiding is preferred by individualists rather than by collectivists. Individualists do not differ from collectivists in their preference for the dominating conflict style. We also found that collectivists prefer compromising and integrating more than individualists do, whereas individualism-collectivism had no significant linear effect on preference for the obliging style. Conflict styles are highly multidimensional for both individualists and collectivists. Even though the five conflict styles can be subsumed under four types, the items measuring the five styles cannot be generated from any two-dimensional typology. Finally, the meaning of four of the five styles is different for individualists and collectivists: Dominating is the only style interpreted similarly by both groups. Areas for future research are considered.
Abnormality Detection and Localization in Chest X-Rays using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks

Chest X-Rays (CXRs) are widely used for diagnosing abnormalities in the heart and lung area. Automatically detecting these abnormalities with high accuracy could greatly enhance real world diagnosis processes. Lack of standard publicly available dataset and benchmark studies, however, makes it difficult to compare various detection methods. In order to overcome these difficulties, we have used a publicly available Indiana CXR, JSRT and Shenzhen dataset and studied the performance of known deep convolutional network (DCN) architectures on different abnormalities. We find that the same DCN architecture doesn't perform well across all abnormalities. Shallow features or earlier layers consistently provide higher detection accuracy compared to deep features. We have also found ensemble models to improve classification significantly compared to single model. Combining these insight, we report the highest accuracy on chest X-Ray abnormality detection on these datasets. We find that for cardiomegaly detection, the deep learning method improves the accuracy by a staggering 17 percentage point compared to rule based methods. We applied the techniques to the problem of tuberculosis detection on a different dataset and achieved the highest accuracy. Our localization experiments using these trained classifiers show that for spatially spread out abnormalities like cardiomegaly and pulmonary edema, the network can localize the abnormalities successfully most of the time. One remarkable result of the cardiomegaly localization is that the heart and its surrounding region is most responsible for cardiomegaly detection, in contrast to the rule based models where the ratio of heart and lung area is used as the measure. We believe that through deep learning based classification and localization, we will discover many more interesting features in medical image diagnosis that are not considered traditionally.
ABO-incompatible heart transplantation

Purpose of review ABO-incompatible (ABOi) heart transplantation (HTx) in young children has evolved from an experimental approach to a standard allocation option in many countries. Clinical and immunological research in ABOi transplantation has revealed insight into the immature immune system and its role in superior graft acceptance in childhood and antigen-specific tolerance. Recent findings Multicenter experience has confirmed equal actuarial survival, freedom from rejection, and graft vasculopathy comparing ABOi with ABO-compatible HTx. Observations of reduced antibody production and B-cell immunity toward the donor blood group have been confirmed in long-term follow-up. Mechanisms contributing to tolerance in this setting involve the interplay between B-cells and the complement system and the development of B-cell memory. Better characterization of the ABH polysaccharide antigens has improved diagnostic methods and clinical assessment of blood group antibodies. Boundaries regarding age, immune maturity, and therapeutic interventions to extend the applicability of ABOi HTx have been explored and resulted in data that may be useful for HTx patients beyond infancy and ABOi transplantation of other organs. Tolerance of ABH antigens possibly extends to HLA response. Summary The review provides insight into the clinical evolution of ABOi HTx and associated immunologic discoveries. Current experiences and boundaries are discussed together with recent and potential future developments for utilization in other patient and age groups.
Minireview: Ghrelin and the Regulation of Energy Balance-A Hypothalamic Perspective.

The recently discovered hormone, ghrelin, has been recognized as an important regulator of GH secretion and energy homeostasis. Orexigenic and adipogenic ghrelin is produced by the stomach, intestine, placenta, pituitary, and possibly in the hypothalamus. The concentration of circulating ghrelin, principally derived from the stomach, is influenced by acute and chronic changes in nutritional state. To date, most studies focused on the role of ghrelin in GH secretion or its function in complementing leptin action to prevent energy deficits. The potential significance of ghrelin in the etiology of obesity and cachexia as well as in the regulation of growth processes is the subject of ongoing discussions. A large quantity of information based on clinical trials and experimental studies with ghrelin and previously available synthetic ghrelin receptor agonists (GH secretagogues) must now be integrated with a rapidly increasing amount of data on the central regulation of metabolism and appetite. In this overview, we summarize recent findings and strategies on the integration of ghrelin into neuroendocrine networks that regulate energy homeostasis.
The effects of four different stroke patterns on manual wheelchair propulsion and upper limb muscle strain

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of stroke pattern on handrim biomechanics and upper limb electromyography (EMG) in experienced wheelchair users. Method: Subjects propelled their own wheelchair on a level, motor-driven treadmill using each of four identified stroke patterns: arcing, double loop (DL), semi-circular (SC) and single loop (SL). Upper limb EMG and measurements taken from an instrumented wheelchair wheel were compared for each pattern. A one-way ANOVA with Bonferroni correction (p < 0.05) was used to check for significant differences. Results: The DL and SC patterns produced the best overall results. The DL pattern led to a significantly longer contact angle and significantly less braking moment than the SL and arcing patterns, and a significantly lower cadence than the SL pattern. The SC pattern led to a significantly longer contact angle than the SL pattern and the lowest peak force and impact of any pattern. There were no significant differences in integrated EMG (IEMG); however, the DL and arcing patterns produced lower combined IEMG values. Conclusions: When traversing level terrain, wheelchair users should push with either the DL or SC patterns. Between the two, the DL pattern required less muscle activity and may be a better choice for experienced wheelchair users. Implications for Rehabilitation Manual wheelchair propulsion is essential for many individuals with lower limb impairments; however, it often leads to upper limb pain, which can limit mobility and quality of life. Stroke patterns that reduce upper limb demand can help users reduce their risk of pain. The double loop (DL) and semi-circular (SC) stroke patterns produced the best combinations of handrim biomechanics and are therefore recommended for use. Due to an observed increase in elbow muscle activity, individuals who use the DL pattern are not encouraged to switch to the SC pattern.
CASH HOLDING , AGENCY COSTS AND CROSS-SECTION OF STOCK RETURNS †

We study the relation between firm cash policy and stock returns when there exists agency conflicts using a structural model. We find that firms with more misaligned manager-shareholder incentives tend to hold more cash and invest more. Meanwhile, they have lower profitability and perform worse. If an investor ignores the agency costs within such firms, she will overprice the stock and suffers a loss. Using a data set of U.S. public firms, we find empirical evidence consistent with the model’s predictions. JEL Classification: D21, E24, G12, G32
A high-resolution VLT/FLAMES study of individual stars in the centre of the Fornax dwarf spheroidal galaxy

For the first time we show the detailed, late-stage, chemical evolution history of a small nearby dwarf spheroidal galaxy in the Local Group. We present the results of a high-resolution (R ~ 20 000, λ = 5340–5620; 6120–6701) FLAMES/GIRAFFE abundance study at ESO/VLT of 81 photometrically selected, red giant branch stars in the central 25 of the Fornax dwarf spheroidal galaxy. We also carried out a detailed comparison of the effects of recent developments in abundance analysis (e.g., spherical models vs. plane-parallel) and the automation that is required to efficiently deal with such large data sets. We present abundances of α-elements (Mg, Si, Ca, and Ti), iron-peak elements (Fe, Ni, and Cr), and heavy elements (Y, Ba, La, Nd, and Eu). Our sample was randomly selected and is clearly dominated by the younger and more metal-rich component of Fornax, which represents the major fraction of stars in the central region. This means that the majority of our stars are 1−4 Gyr old, and thus represent the end phase of chemical evolution in this system. Our sample of stars has unusually low [α/Fe], [Ni/Fe], and [Na/Fe] compared to the Milky Way stellar populations at the same [Fe/H]. The particularly important role of stellar winds from low-metallicity AGB stars in the creation of s-process elements is clearly seen from the high [Ba/Y]. Furthermore, we present evidence of an s-process origin of Eu.
iPTF16fnl: A Faint and Fast Tidal Disruption Event in an E+A Galaxy

We present ground-based and Swift observations of iPTF16fnl, a likely tidal disruption event (TDE) discovered by the intermediate Palomar Transient Factory (iPTF) survey at 66.6 Mpc. The light curve of the object peaked at an absolute mag . The maximum bolometric luminosity (from optical and UV) was erg s−1, an order of magnitude fainter than any other optical TDE discovered so far. The luminosity in the first 60 days is consistent with an exponential decay, with , where t0 = 57631.0 (MJD) and days. The X-ray shows a marginal detection at erg s−1 (Swift X-ray Telescope). No radio counterpart was detected down to 3σ, providing upper limits for monochromatic radio luminosities of erg s−1 and erg s−1 (Very Large Array, 6.1 and 22 GHz). The blackbody temperature, obtained from combined Swift UV and optical photometry, shows a constant value of 19,000 K. The transient spectrum at peak is characterized by broad He ii and Hα emission lines, with FWHMs of about 14,000 km s−1 and 10,000 km s−1, respectively. He i lines are also detected at λλ 5875 and 6678. The spectrum of the host is dominated by strong Balmer absorption lines, which are consistent with a post-starburst (E+A) galaxy with an age of ∼650 Myr and solar metallicity. The characteristics of iPTF16fnl make it an outlier on both luminosity and decay timescales, as compared to other optically selected TDEs. The discovery of such a faint optical event suggests a higher rate of tidal disruptions, as low-luminosity events may have gone unnoticed in previous searches.
One stage full- versus partial-mouth disinfection in the treatment of chronic adult or generalized early-onset periodontitis. I. Long-term clinical observations.

BACKGROUND A standard treatment strategy for periodontal infections often consists of 4 consecutive sessions of scaling and root planing (per quadrant, at 1- to 2-week intervals), without proper disinfection of the remaining intra-oral niches for periodontopathogens. This could theoretically lead to a reinfection of previously disinfected pockets by bacteria from an untreated region/niche. This study aimed to investigate, over an 8-month period, the clinical benefits of a one stage full-mouth disinfection in the control of severe periodontitis. METHODS Sixteen patients with early-onset periodontitis and 24 patients with severe adult periodontitis were randomly assigned to test and control groups. The control group was scaled and root planed, per quadrant, at 2-week intervals and given standard oral hygiene instructions. A one stage full-mouth disinfection (test group) was sought by scaling and root planing the 4 quadrants within 24 hours in combination with the application of chlorhexidine to all intra-oral niches for periodontopathogens. Besides oral hygiene, the test group also rinsed twice daily with a 0.2% chlorhexidine solution and sprayed the tonsils with a 0.2% chlorhexidine spray, for 2 months. The plaque index, gingival index, probing depth, bleeding on probing, gingival recession, and clinical attachment level were recorded at baseline and at 1, 2, 4, and 8 months afterwards. RESULTS The one stage full-mouth disinfection resulted, in comparison to the standard therapy, in a significant (P <0.001) additional probing depth reduction and gain in attachment up to 8 months. For initial pockets > or =7 mm, the "additional" probing depth reduction at the 8 month follow-up was 1.2 mm for single-rooted and 0.9 mm for multi-rooted teeth, with corresponding additional gains in attachment of 1.0 mm and 0.8 mm, respectively. The additional improvements were observed for all subgroups (adult periodontitis, generalized early-onset cases, smokers), with the largest differences in the non-smoking adult periodontitis patients. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that a one stage full-mouth disinfection results in an improved clinical outcome for the treatment of chronic adult or early-onset periodontitis as compared to scaling and root planing per quadrant at 2-week intervals.
Evaluation of the 7-day physical activity recall in urban and rural men.

PURPOSE To assess reliability and validity of the 7-d physical activity recall (PAR) in 60- to 80-yr-old men from urban and rural homes in the southeastern United States. METHODS Two hundred twenty 60- to 80-yr-old men (29% minority ethnicity) from Veterans Affairs primary care clinics completed two PAR interviews at 2- to 4-wk intervals. The PAR included modifications to elicit and score light-moderate (2-3 METs) as well as moderate (3-6 METs) and hard (>/=7 METs) physical activity. Reliability was assessed using intraclass correlations from the two interviews. Validity was assessed using Spearman correlations of PAR variables with 6-min walk performance, and with treadmill performance and accelerometer activity counts from subsamples, as well as measures of gait, balance, activities of daily living, and perceived quality of life. Results were examined separately for urban and rural participants. RESULTS Reliability coefficients were acceptable and PAR measures of estimated energy expenditure, and time spent in hard, moderate, and light-moderate activity correlated as hypothesized with the fitness and health measures. CONCLUSION Reliability and validity coefficients were generally similar to those found in studies of the PAR with younger samples and with instruments designed specifically for use with elders. The PAR is a useful and flexible instrument for assessing physical activity of varying intensity in older men living in both urban and rural home settings.
Factors Affecting the Implementation of Strategic Plans in Government Tertiary Institutions: A Survey of Selected Technical Training Institutes

This study carried out an analysis of factors influencing the implementation of strategic management plans in selected tertiary institutions in Meru central District. The study was guided by four objectives and data was collected to answer the following four questions: - How managerial Behavior, Institutional policies, Resources allocation and Rewards and Incentives influence the implementation of strategic management plans. Four null hypotheses were tested to inform on the decision process of accepting or rejecting the influence of each of the four independent variables on the dependent variable. The research design was a descriptive survey carried out in Meru central District and the selected governments sponsored tertiary institutions were; - Nkabune and Kiirua Technical Training Institutions. The population for the study ware the institutions'Managers and serving Lecturers in the tertiary institutions within the selected institutions Meru Central District. The accessible population was made up of 136 Lecturers, 30 heads of departments and 12 top manager; totaling to an accessible population of 178 respondents. Using a stratified random sampling design, a quota of 33% was established for each of the stratum in each institute from the three stratus of top management, heads of departments and lectures. A table of random numbers was used to select a sample of 60 individual respondents for the study. The study used a structured questionnaire as the data collection instrument both descriptive and inferential statistical analysis techniques were used in order to test the four Hypothesis of the study. The study concludes that the weak influence of managerial behavior was as a result of strategic thinking of the management and the influence of rewards and incentives were found to be weak as it was the intrinsic motivation of the teacher's professional ethics than extrinsic motivation by management through tangible reward by Management that made the lecturers co-operate in the implementation of strategic plans. Institutional policies were revealed to be weak in influencing strategy implementation because of low awareness and the infrequent use of the service charter which is a critical barometer of strategy implementation effectiveness and efficiency. The study recommends that Tertiary institutions create a higher level of involvement of faculty members in any further strategy development and review to avoid hands off approach and lack of ownership on the part of lecturers who are the implementers. The Agencies must also ensure a high level of sensitization among faculty members, and where practical programmes for capacity building to improve skill and motivate the willingness to participate by the faculty members. Further study is recommended on the effectiveness of the strategic management plans being implemented in the tertiary institutions and other Institutions of higher learning and specialized institutions like Government Training Institutes
Metalworking Fluid Mist—Strategies to Reduce Exposure: A Comparison of New and Old Transmission Case Transfer Lines

Three studies were performed to assess the effectiveness of various techniques to control metalworking fluid (MWF) mist. The studies consisted of a detailed main study that determined the effect of degree of enclosure on personal exposures and area concentrations of MWF mist on two machining transfer lines. One ancillary study was conducted to determine the effect of shutting off MWF delivery during down time; the second ancillary study investigated the effectiveness of improved retrofitted enclosure. In the main study, the two operations were identical except for degree of enclosure. Personal and area sampling results for the new line were about half those found in the old line. Measurements at the new operation exhibited significantly less variability. Personal exposures and area concentrations were significantly less at the new operation than at the older, less enclosed operation, demonstrating that the total enclosure in the new operation provides better and more consistent control of the mist. The first ancillary study was conducted to determine if shutting off MWF delivery to the parts being machined reduced area MWF mist concentration during downtime at a partially enclosed transfer machining line. A significant reduction in concentration of 80% was measured with machining off/MWF off. Mist concentrations measured with machining off/MWF on were not significantly different from mist levels measured during machining on/MWF on. The second ancillary study investigated the reduction of mist concentration achieved through improved enclosure of an existing set of machines. Area mist concentrations were measured at a machining operation before and after the installation of an improved enclosure. Area mist concentrations were reduced by 87% with the improved enclosure.