Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Positive sentinel lymph node biopsy predicts local metastases during the course of disease in Merkel cell carcinoma

Abstract The purpose was to investigate the predictive power of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) patients, using clinical data collected during treatment. The aim was also to review the treatment protocols for MCC patients in Finland. These data were retrieved and compared after identification in the Finnish Cancer Registry from 1979–2009. Hospital files were reviewed for demographic and treatment-related data. Statistical analysis was performed for survival comparing sentinel lymph node positive and negative patients. Specific inclusion criteria yielded a cohort of 33 patient records, which accounted for 15% of the 225 diagnosed MCC patients during the study period. The male:female ratio was 1:1.5. On average, in the lymphoscintigraphy 2 ± 1.62 sentinel lymph nodes visualised and 2 ± 2.4 sentinel lymph nodes were removed in the operation. The mean primary tumour size in sentinel lymph node positive patients was 12.7 mm and in sentinel lymph node negative patients it was 19 mm. Nine patients had micrometastases in their removed sentinel lymph nodes. The patients with positive sentinel lymph node developed local metastases during the course of disease more often than sentinel lymph node negative patients (p < 0.003). However, there was no statistical difference in overall survival in sentinel lymph node negative and positive patients (p > 0.12). This study emphasises that SLNB appears to be a useful tool in determining the stage of MCC patients regardless of tumour size. A positive sentinel lymph node predicts the metastatic course of disease.
RISK FACTORS AFFECTING CONVERSION IN PATIENTS UNDERGOING LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard in the treatment for cholelithiasis, but there are still some patients requiring conversion to open cholecystectomy for several factors. The objective of this study was to evaluate preoperative risk factors for conversion from laparoscopic to open cholecystectomy.
CEO Incentives and Customer‐Supplier Relations

This study explores how suppliers adjust their relation‐specific investments (RSI) in response to the different risk‐taking incentives provided by the customer firm to its CEO, during normal and transition periods. We investigate this relation using 17,553 customer–supplier transactions over the 1993–2013 period. We find strong evidence consistent with the risk‐taking argument. Specifically, we find that an increase in the risk‐taking incentives of customer CEOs leads to a decline in suppliers’ RSI in normal periods, but an increase in RSI during transition periods. We employ the FAS‐123R mandate to show that an exogenous reduction in customer CEO's incentive pay increases suppliers’ RSI. We reaffirm the effect with the passage of the Sarbanes–Oxley Act as a secondary quasi‐natural experiment. Finally, we examine several scenarios that either amplify or attenuate the observed relation, based on factors such as financial constraints, distress, growth opportunities, industry competition, and other firm characteristics. Our study contributes to the literature that examines the interplay between corporate policy and product market relationships.
Predictors of subjective versus objective cognitive functioning in patients with stable grades II and III glioma.

BACKGROUND Studies in cancer and noncancer populations demonstrate lower than expected correlations between subjective cognitive symptoms and cognitive functioning as determined by standardized neuropsychological tests. This paper systematically examines the association between subjective and objective cognitive functioning in patients with low-grade glioma and the associations of these indicators of cognitive function with clusters of sociodemographic, clinical, and self-reported physical and mental health factors. METHODS Multiple regression analyses with the subjective and 2 objective indicators of cognitive functioning as dependent variables and 4 clusters of predictor variables were conducted in 169 patients with predominantly low-grade glioma. RESULTS Correlations between the subjective and the 2 objective cognitive indicators were negligible (0.04) to low (0.24). Objective cognitive deficits were predominantly associated with sociodemographic (older age, lower education, male sex) and clinical (left hemisphere tumor) variables, while lower ratings of subjective cognitive function were more closely related to self-reported mental health symptoms (fatigue, lower mental well-being), physical (motor) dysfunction and female sex. Self-reported communication deficits were associated significantly with both subjective and objective dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS We recommend that both subjective and objective measures of cognitive functioning, together with a measure of psychological distress, be used for comprehensive neuropsychological assessments of patients with glioma to determine which areas are most affected and which specific intervention strategies are most appropriate.
Phosphatidylinositol 3-Phosphate [PtdIns(3)P] Is Generated at thePlasma Membrane by an Inositol Polyphosphate 5-Phosphatase: Endogenous PtdIns(3)P Can Promote GLUT4 Translocation to the Plasma Membrane

ABSTRACT Exogenous delivery of carrier-linked phosphatidylinositol 3-phosphate [PtdIns(3)P] to adipocytes promotes the trafficking, but not the insertion, of the glucose transporter GLUT4 into the plasma membrane. However, it is yet to be demonstrated if endogenous PtdIns(3)P regulates GLUT4 trafficking and, in addition, the metabolic pathways mediating plasma membrane PtdIns(3)P synthesis are uncharacterized. In unstimulated 3T3-L1 adipocytes, conditions under which PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 was not synthesized, ectopic expression of wild-type, but not catalytically inactive 72-kDa inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatase (72-5ptase), generated PtdIns(3)P at the plasma membrane. Immunoprecipitated 72-5ptase from adipocytes hydrolyzed PtdIns(3,5)P2, forming PtdIns(3)P. Overexpression of the 72-5ptase was used to functionally dissect the role of endogenous PtdIns(3)P in GLUT4 translocation and/or plasma membrane insertion. In unstimulated adipocytes wild type, but not catalytically inactive, 72-5ptase, promoted GLUT4 translocation and insertion into the plasma membrane but not glucose uptake. Overexpression of FLAG-2xFYVE/Hrs, which binds and sequesters PtdIns(3)P, blocked 72-5ptase-induced GLUT4 translocation. Actin monomer binding, using latrunculin A treatment, also blocked 72-5ptase-stimulated GLUT4 translocation. 72-5ptase expression promoted GLUT4 trafficking via a Rab11-dependent pathway but not by Rab5-mediated endocytosis. Therefore, endogenous PtdIns(3)P at the plasma membrane promotes GLUT4 translocation.
Complement Factor C5a Mediates Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury Independent from Neutrophils1

The complement system has been shown to mediate renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, the contribution of complement factor C5a to I/R injury, in particular in the kidney, remains to be established. In this study, we investigated the impact of blocking the C5aR pathway on the inflammatory response and on the renal function in a murine model of I/R injury. First, we analyzed C5aR expression in kidneys of healthy mice. Intriguingly, we found expression on mesangial, as well as on tubular epithelial, cells. After I/R injury, C5aR expression was up-regulated in tubular epithelial cells. In addition, mRNA levels of CXC chemokines and TNF-α increased significantly and kidneys were heavily infiltrated by neutrophils. Blocking the C5aR pathway by a specific C5a receptor antagonist (C5aRA) abrogated up-regulation of CXC chemokines but not of TNF-α and reduced neutrophil infiltration by >50%. Moreover, application of the C5aRA significantly reduced loss of renal function. This improvement of function was independent of the presence of neutrophils because neutrophil depletion by mAb NIMP-R14 did not affect the protective effect of C5aRA treatment. Furthermore, blocking of the C5aR pathway had no influence on renal apoptosis. These data provide evidence that C5a is crucially involved in the pathogenesis of renal I/R injury by modulation of neutrophil-dependent as well as neutrophil-independent pathways, which include the regulation of CXC chemokines but not TNF-α or apoptotic pathways.
Entrepreneurial resourcefulness in unstable institutional contexts: The example of European Union borderlands

This paper advances our understanding of entrepreneurial resourcefulness in unstable institutional contexts, which are characterized by resource constraints and institutional changes but are rich in intangible resources of a socio-cultural nature. Drawing on qualitative data of individuals engaged in informal cross border activities in EU borderlands, we theorize resourcefulness along two core dimensions: continuity and change in relation to socio-cultural, spatial and institutional conditions and, development and coping as outcomes. We identify six configurations of resourcefulness patterns and outcomes that extend current understandings of the variations in how individuals interact with their contexts offering, therefore, a nuanced view of resourcefulness.
Is my professional future biased for gender perceptions? A study for the Spanish case with public policy proposals on education

[EN] This article deals with the ‘glass ceiling’ phenomenon based on the fact that a disproportionately low number of women access managerial positions by analyzing gender differences in the ‘educational profile’ and ‘professional profile perceived’. The sample is conducted among 165 undergraduate economics students (54 males and 111 females) in the final year of college in Spain at the time they were planning their future professional career. The methodology used is based on two approaches. First, an analytic model using Structural Equations Model (SEM) that leads us to explore perceptual differences in favorite subjects, professional ambitions, values associated to the workplace and mobility. Second, a causal analysis following the System Dynamics methodology to describe the women’s behavior in explaining their self-exclusion from managerial positions. Findings confirm the existence of an educational system biased by gender and reveals that while men are more ambitious professionally and show greater capacity to geographical mobility, women require greater motivation at work. Moreover, we find that the factors explaining why women are still far from reaching senior management positions are both external (gender stereotypes or organizational policies) and internal ones (self-confidence, self-esteem). Finally, we propose a set of education measures as a starting point to implement public policies which could reduce women´s barriers to break their glass ceiling.
Performance of shariah-compliant firms and non-shariah-compliant firms in the MENA region: Which is better?

Purpose This paper aims to document the relative performance of non-financial shariah-compliant firms and non-financial non-shariah-compliant firms in the MENA (Morocco, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Kuwait and Bahrain) region during the period between 2005 and 2009. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses pooled ordinary least squares regression analysis to document the effect of shariah compliance on stock price performance in the MENA region on a sample of non-financial firms that consists of shariah- and non-shariah-compliant firms. Findings Using market-adjusted returns as a proxy for performance, this paper shows that shariah-compliant firms underperform non-shariah-compliant firms. The results also show that underperformance of shariah-compliant firms holds in the civil law and in the common law countries. Interestingly, this paper also shows that difference between the performance of shariah-and non-shariah-compliant firms disappears during the crisis period. Research limitations/implications This paper argues that the characteristics of shariah-compliant firms are such that these firms are at a disadvantage relative to their non-shariah-compliant counterparts. For example, high leverage of their counterpart firms can act as a disciplining mechanism and positively affect performance of these firms. Similarly, high account receivables and high cash allow non-shariah-compliant firms to make more effective business networks than shariah-compliant firms and fund large capital expenditures. Consequently, shariah-compliant firms underperform non-shariah-compliant firms. This study’s results, however, should be read with caution, as they are mainly based upon the performance of large volume, statistical significance, sampling errors and possible labeling miss-specification. Further research on this topic with different research methodology is essential. Originality/value This paper takes a financial view rather than religious view while highlighting the impact of shariah characteristics on firm performance.
Meta‐analysis of laparoscopic total (Nissen) versus posterior (Toupet) fundoplication for gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease based on randomized clinical trials

Background: Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) is the standard procedure for surgical management of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). Laparoscopic Toupet fundoplication (LTF) is reported to be as effective as LNF but to be associated with a lower incidence of post‐operative dysphagia. This meta‐analysis was performed to compare the two techniques with respect to reflux control and associated complications, particularly dysphagia.
SEMIPARAMETRIC ANALYSIS OF RANDOM EFFECTS LINEAR MODELS FROM BINARY PANEL DATA

Andersen (1970) considered the problem of inference on random effects linear models from binary response panel data. He showed that inference is possible if the disturbances for each panel member are known to be white noise with the logistic distribution and if the observed explanatory variables vary over time. A conditional maximum likelihood estimator consistently estimates the model parameters up to scale. The present paper shows that inference remains possible if the disturbances for each panel member are known only to be time-stationary with unbounded support and if the explanatory variables vary enough over time. A conditional version of the maximum score estimator (Manski, 1975, 1985) consistently estimates the model parameters up to scale.
The Global Financial Crisis, Family Control and Dividend Policy

Using newly collected data on the ultimate ownership structure of publicly traded firms in nine East Asian economies, we find that family control is negatively related to the dividend payout ratio. Family firms are less (more) likely to increase (omit) dividends than non-family firms. These negative associations between family firms and dividend policy are more pronounced during the recent global financial crisis, suggesting that controlling families have incentives to expropriate more firm resources during crises than in normal times.
Clinical Predictors of Defibrillation Thresholds with an Active Pectoral Pulse Generator Lead System

HODGSON, D.M. , et al.: Clinical Predictors of Defibrillation Thresholds with an Active Pectoral Pulse Generator Lead System. Active pectoral pulse generators are used routinely for initial ICD placement because they reduce DFTs and simplify the implantation procedure. Despite the common use of these systems, little is known regarding the clinical predictors of defibrillation efficacy with active pulse generator lead configurations. Such predictors would be helpful to identify patients likely to require higher output devices or more complicated implantations. This was a prospective evaluation of DFT using a uniform testing protocol in 102 consecutive patients with an active pectoral can and dual coil transvenous lead. For each patient, the DFT was measured with a step‐down protocol. In addition, 34 parameters were assessed including standard clinical echocardiographic and radiographic measures. Multivariate stepwise regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of the DFT. The mean DFT was 9.3 ± 4.6 J and 93% (95/102) of patients had a DFT ≤ 15 J. The QRS duration, interventricular septum thickness, left ventricular mass, and mass index were significant but weak (R < 0.3) univariate predictors of DFT. The left ventricular mass was the only independent predictor by multivariate analysis, but this parameter accounted for < 5% of the variability of DFT measured (adjusted R2= 0.047, P = 0.017). The authors concluded that an acceptable DFT (< 15 J) is observed in > 90% of patients with this dual coil and active pectoral can lead system. Clinical factors are of limited use for predicting DFTs and identifying those patients who will have high thresholds.
Bone Neoplasms in F344 Rats Given Teriparatide [rhPTH(1-34)] Are Dependent on Duration of Treatment and Dose

A long-term study was conducted in female F344 rats to determine the relative importance of dose, treatment duration, and age at initiation of treatment on the incidence of teriparatide [rhPTH[1-34)]-induced bone proliferative lesions. Treatment groups consisted of different combinations of dose (0, 5, or 30 μg/kg/d), treatment duration (6, 20, or 24 months) and age at initiation of treatment (2 or 6 months of age). The primary endpoints were the incidence of bone neoplasms and effects on bone mass and structure as evaluated by quantitative computed tomography and histomorphometery. Significant increases in the incidence of bone tumors (osteoma, osteoblastoma, and osteosarcoma) occurred in rats treated with 30 μg/kg for 20 or 24 months. No neoplasms were found when the 5 μg/kg treatment was initiated at 6 months of age and continued for either 6 or 20 months (up to 70% of life span). This treatment regimen defined a “no-effect” dose for neoplasm formation that nevertheless resulted in substantial increases in bone mass. These results demonstrate that treatment duration and administered dose are the most important factors in the teriparatide-induced bone tumors in rats.
Better Prescribing Project: a randomized controlled trial of the impact of case-based educational modules and personal prescribing feedback on prescribing for hypertension in primary care.

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to assess the impacts of individualized prescribing feedback and interactive small group education aimed at encouraging evidence-based prescribing in family/general practice. METHODS A two-by-two factorial randomized controlled trial was carried out involving 200 family physicians in British Columbia, Canada. The physicians met monthly in 28 peer learning groups within the Practice-Based Small Group (PBSG) learning programme. Personalized prescribing feedback related to hypertension was provided through 'prescribing portraits' which graphically displayed comparative rates of individual and peer group prescribing, together with a concise guide for evidence-based prescribing. A case-based educational module, containing the same evidence-based message, was discussed in small groups. Groups were matched and randomized into four arms of seven groups each: control (n = 56), prescribing portrait only (n = 48), educational module only (n = 47), both portrait and module (n = 49). The main outcome measure was changes in 'prescribing preferences' to new patients among those medications used to treat hypertension (i.e. probability that a patient would receive the evidence-based medication as first-line therapy). RESULTS Using data from the provincial pharmacy registry (PharmaNet), prescribing preferences for antihypertensive agents were determined for all groups for a 6 month period before and after the interventions, based on 4394 patients receiving a first-line antihypertensive. Significant absolute increases in prescribing preference for thiazides were documented for both the module +0.068 (confidence interval [CI] 0.022-0.115) and the portrait +0.065 (CI 0.018-0.111). Preference in the group receiving both module and portrait increased by +0.115 (CI 0.040-0.189). CONCLUSIONS Evidence-based educational interventions combining personalized prescribing feedback with interactive group discussion can lead to modest but meaningful changes in physician prescribing. Clear messages, proper trial design and sensitive outcomes are necessary to demonstrate these changes.
Buried heterostructure quantum cascade lasers with a large optical cavity waveguide

We report the fabrication and characterization of buried heterostructure quantum cascade (BH-QC) lasers formed by selective lateral regrowth of InP on the laser ridge by metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). A fivefold improvement in maximum average power (up to 10 mW) and a twofold improvement in maximum operation duty cycle (up to 17%) are measured at 273 K and are attributed to lower lateral waveguide losses and a better heat dissipation.
Determinants of Principal Pay in the State of Texas

The purpose of the study was to examine district, campus, and community determinants of principal’s salaries using a spatial econometric framework. Among the district variables business tax (p = 0.001), property tax (p < .01), and the Herfindahl Index (measure of competition) were statistically significant indicators of principal salaries. The results suggest that more affluent districts tend to pay principals higher salaries, which was expected. Regarding campus characteristics, the percent of economically disadvantaged was not a statistically sound indicator (p = 0.468), but campus enrollment was significant (p = <.01). Interestingly as the percentage of economically disadvantaged students increased, the principal salary decreased. In contrast, as student enrollment increases the salary of principals increases, suggesting that principals of larger campuses earn higher salaries. Interestingly, student achievement was not a statistically significant predictor of principals’ salary given that pay for performance in Texas is at the forefront of political debate. Among the variables examined at the community level, only the percentage of homes owner occupied (p = 0.002) was found to be a statistically significant indicator of principal salary (p = .002). The lack of evidence on reforms, such as determinants of principal salary, points to data and research deficiencies to be addressed in order to learn more about their effects and make sound public policies. The paper utilized a spatial regression approach to examine the determinants of principal salary using data from the local, state, and national data sources. Principal salaries are viewed from several lenses in this study by considering effective outcomes of pay defined by actual salaries and market considerations for pay as defined by community, organizational, and human capital variables. Literature from the private sector as well as from the public school setting was used as a theoretical underpinning for the hypotheses set forth in this study. Because of the chosen research approach, the research results may lack generalizability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test the proposed propositions further. The paper includes implications for educational policy development related to pay for contribution, rather than pay based on tenure, experience, or district wealth. The research also fulfils an identified policy need to study how principal salaries are determined.