Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effects of different feed additives alone or in combination on broiler performance, gut microflora and ileal histology

1. The objectives of this experiment were to investigate the effects of different xylanases, alone or in combination with different organic acid and oligosaccharide sources, on bird performance, gut microflora and ileal histology. 2. Birds were given a diet based on a commercial formulation, which was split into 8 batches. Batch 1 contained the antibiotic growth promoter Avilamycin and acted as the positive control. To batch 2 the enzyme Allzyme PT® was added and to batch 3 Allzyme PT was added with the organic acid and oligosaccharide mixture Avimos®. To batch 4, Allzyme PT was added with the oligosaccharide mixture Biomos®. To batch 5, yeast extract 2012 was added with the organic acid mixture Gustor and the enzyme xylanase XP20. To batch 6, yeast extract 2012 and feed acidifier Gustor were added as before, with the enzyme Avizyme 1300. Batches 7 and 8 both acted as negative experimental controls, with no added growth promoters. 3. A total of 64 birds were housed in individual wire cages in each of three consecutive experimental replicates (24 birds/treatment). Birds were fed ad libitum from 7 to 28 d and a 7–d excreta collection was carried out to determine apparent metabolisable energy (AME) content. 4. At 28 d, the birds were killed and viscosity of jejunal digesta supernatant and gizzard weight were determined. Samples were taken from the crop, ileum and caecum and analysed for viable presumptive lactic acid bacteria and coliforms. The overall microbial flora was determined using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis of 16S ribosomal DNA followed by DNA sequence analysis in order to assign amplicons to a bacterial species. Ileal sections were also collected for histological analysis. 5. Total live weight gain (12%) and gain : feed (9%) were significantly improved for all diets containing additives, compared to the negative control diets. All diets containing xylanases gave significantly lower in vivo viscosity values than the positive and negative controls. Diet treatment significantly affected viable coliform numbers in the ileum and also viable lactobacilli in the ileum and caecum. A substantial proportion of the bacteria present in the GI tract (40%) belong to unknown species. No effects of diet treatment on histological measurements were observed in this study. 6. All the additive combinations studied were at least as effective as the antibiotic growth promoter and the results for Allzyme PT® suggest that xylanase alone is as effective as any of the combinations studied.
On approximations for queues, III: Mixtures of exponential distributions

To evaluate queueing approximations based on a few parameters (e.g., the first two moments) of the interarrival-time and service-time distributions, we examine the set of all possible values of the mean queue length given this partial information. In general, the range of possible values given such partial information can be large, but if in addition shape constraints are imposed on the distributions, then the range can be significantly reduced. The effect of shape constraints on the interarrival-time distribution in a GI/M/1 queue was investigated in Part II (see "On Approximations for Queues, II: Shape Constraints," this issue) by restricting attention to discrete probability distributions with probability on a fixed finite set of points and then solving nonlinear programs. In this paper we show how one kind of shape constraint — assuming that the distribution is a mixture of exponential distributions — can be examined analytically. By considering GI/G/1 queues in which both the interarrival-time and service-time distributions are mixtures of exponential distributions with specified first two moments, we show that additional information about the distributions is more important for the interarrivai time than for the service time.
EVOLUTION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMPONENT OF THE PHENOTYPIC VARIANCE: STABILIZING SELECTION IN CHANGING ENVIRONMENTS AND THE COST OF HOMOGENEITY

Abstract Quantitative traits show abundant genetic, environmental, and phenotypic variance, yet if they are subject to stabilizing selection for an optimal phenotype, both the genetic and environmental components are expected to decline. The mechanisms that determine the level and maintenance of phenotypic variance are not yet fully understood. While there has been extensive study of mechanisms maintaining genetic variability, it has generally been assumed that environmental variance is not dependent on the genotype and therefore not subject to change. However, accumulating data suggest that the environmental variance is under some degree of genetic control. In this study, it is assumed accordingly that both the genotypic value (i.e., mean phenotypic value) and the variance of phenotypic value given genotypic value depend on the genotype. Two models are investigated as potentially able to explain the protected maintenance of environmental variance of quantitative traits under stabilizing selection. One is varying environment among generations such that both the optimal phenotype and the strength of the stabilizing selection vary between generations. The other is the cost of homogeneity, which is based on an assumption of an engineering cost of minimizing variability in development. It is shown that a small homogeneity cost is enough to maintain the observed levels of environmental variance, whereas a large amount of temporal variation in the optimal phenotype and the strength of selection would be necessary.
Continuous Fascia Iliaca Compartment Block in Children: A Prospective Evaluation of Plasma Bupivacaine Concentrations, Pain Scores, and Side Effects

We sought to determine the plasma concentrations of bupivacaine and its main metabolite after continuous fascia iliaca compartment (FIC) block in children. Twenty children (9.9 ± 4 yr, 38 ± 19 kg) received a continuous FIC block for either postoperative analgesia (n = 16) or femoral shaft fracture (n = 4). A bolus dose of 0.25% bupivacaine (1.56 ± 0.3 mg/kg) with epinephrine was followed by a continuous administration of 0.1% bupivacaine (0.135 ± 0.03 mg · kg−1 · h−1) for 48 h. Plasma bupivacaine levels were determined at 24 h and 48 h by using gas liquid chromatography. Heart rate, arterial blood pressure, respiratory rate, side effects, and pain scores were recorded at 4-h intervals during 48 h. No significant differences were found between mean plasma bupivacaine levels at 24 h (0.71 ± 0.4 &mgr;g/mL) and at 48 h (0.84 ± 0.4 &mgr;g/mL) (P = 0.33). FIC block provided adequate analgesia in most cases. No severe adverse effects were noted. We conclude that the bupivacaine plasma concentrations during continuous FIC block in children are within the safety margins. FIC block is well tolerated, and provides satisfactory pain relief in most cases.
Feedback effect of brand extension in cable networks established by parent newspaper brands: applying expectation disconfirmation theory

ABSTRACT In the present study, we constructed a new research model to understand the feedback effects of brand extension by applying expectation disconfirmation theory to a real-world case of brand extension among South Korean newspapers. We found that the feedback effect was significant in brand extension efforts between the newspaper and broadcast industries. In addition, the relationships between evaluations of the extension brand and the parent brand were mediated by variables defined by expectation disconfirmation theory, including perceived performance and expectation disconfirmation. We also found that expectation disconfirmation can affect evaluations of the parent brand regardless of the perceived fit. Finally, we verified that expectation disconfirmation differs according to the level of perceived fit.
Psycho-behavioural risks of low back pain in railway workers.

BACKGROUND Low back pain (LBP) is the most costly ailment in the work force. Risky work behaviour and psychological stress are established risk factors. AIMS To explore the associations between workplace risk factors, psychological stress and LBP among Malaysian railway workers. METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out on railway workers in Malaysia. Socio-demographics, workplace risk factors for LBP, perceived psychological stress and history of LBP over the previous month were obtained by direct interviews using a structured closed-ended questionnaire. Descriptive, bivariate and logistic regression analyses were conducted. RESULTS There were 513 study participants (70% response rate). The prevalence of LBP in the previous month was 69%. Multivariate analysis yielded four significant predictors of LBP: employment of ≥ 10 years, lifting and lowering heavy loads, prolonged standing posture and psychological stress. CONCLUSIONS The high prevalence of LBP and its significant associations with physical and psychological stress factors in railway workers points to an urgent need for preventive measures, particularly among workers in high-risk occupations.
Policing and mental health

This chapter considers research relating to policing mental health and the challenges facing the criminal justice system of care in the community and the growing mental health problem in England and Wales. Joint working policies have put additional pressure on the police to collaborate with local mental health services, social services, probation and addiction services which has changed the face of policing and the remit of the police when it comes to members of the public that experience mental health problems. The comorbidity of crime and mental health problems will be considered and the additional pressure on the police due to the limited support available for treatment of mental health problems.
Short Term Predictors of Unemployment in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

ABSTRACT: Background: Unemployment is common in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and is associated with loss of income and impaired health related quality of life. This study determined variables associated with unemployment and risk factors for the development of unemployment in people with MS. Methods: Ninety-six patients who were under age 65 and participated in two previous studies to measure economic costs and health related quality of life in MS were included. The baseline employment rate and variables associated with unemployment at baseline were determined. The ability of these variables to predict unemployment over the next two and a half years was then evaluated. Results: At baseline 50.1% (50/96) of participants were employed. Two and a half years later only 40.6% (39/96) remained employed. This represents loss of employment for 22.0% (11/50) of those originally employed. Factors associated with unemployment at baseline included greater disability, progressive disease course, longer disease duration, and older age. Risk factors for loss of employment over the next 2.5 years included greater disability and older age. Conclusions: This study confirms the low employment rate among people with MS and confirms the association of several previously-reported factors with greater risk of unemployment. It is also the first study to confirm that some of these factors also increase the risk of future unemployment. People with MS who are over age 39 or have moderate disability and are still employed can now be identified as at risk for becoming unemployed over the next 2.5 years. They should be considered for interventions to maintain employment or to lessen the impact of unemployment.
Information Asymmetry and Herding Behavior

Conceptually, the stock market is strong form efficient in the long term. However, in practice, there are various forms of market anomalies that undermine the accuracy of the efficient market hypothesis. One factor suspected as the cause of market inefficiency is herding behavior. Investors herd when they imitate the actions of other investors. This behavior occurs when there is a continuous interaction among rational investors that prevents them from seeking information about market fundamentals. This study provides new insights by including information asymmetry as a moderating variable. This research examines the phenomenon of herding behavior in the Indonesia Stock Exchange as well as examines directly the effect of information asymmetry on herding behavior. The period of study is 2008 using time series of daily stocks data that actively traded in the capital market. Results of this study find that investor tends to follow market consensus when price changes at the low level, but when there is large price swing market participant acts independently from other investors. Interestingly, this study finds that information asymmetry is a necessary condition for the existence of herding behavior. --- Secara konseptual, dalam jangka panjang pasar modal bersifat efisien bentuk kuat. Namun, dalam praktik, terdapat berbagai bentuk anomali pasar yang menurunkan akurasi dari hipotesis pasar efisien. Salah satu faktor yang diduga sebagai penyebab inefisiensi pasar yaitu perilaku kawanan (herding behavior). Investor berperilaku herd ketika mereka mengimitasi tindakan investor lain. Perilaku ini terjadi ketika terdapat interaksi yang terus-menerus di antara investor rasional yang menghalangi mereka untuk mencari informasi mengenai fundamental pasar. Penelitian ini memberikan wawasan baru dengan memasukkan asimetri informasi sebagai sebuah variabel moderasi. Penelitian ini menguji fenomena perilaku kawanan di Bursa Efek Indonesia sekaligus secara langsung menguji dampak dari asimetri informasi terhadap perilaku kawanan. Penelitian ini menggunakan tahun 2008 sebagai periode penelitian dengan menggunakan data harian atas saham-saham yang diperdagangkan secara aktif di pasar modal. Hasil penelitian ini menemukan bahwa investor cenderung untuk mengikuti konsensus pasar ketika terjadi perubahan harga pada tingkat rendah, namun ketika terdapat lonjakan harga yang besar, partisipan pasar bertindak secara independen dari investor lain. Menariknya, penelitian ini menemukan bahwa asimetri informasi merupakan kondisi yang diperlukan bagi keberadaan perilaku kawanan.
Korean and conventional medicine tourism industry trends as indicated in medical tourism advertisement images: qualitative research using data from medical Korea 2015

ABSTRACT This study analyzed advertisement images targeting international audiences of South Korean medical facilities (traditional Korean and conventional medicine) participating in Medical Korea 2015 using thematic content analysis. The image categories most often used in conventional medicine were medical procedures, facilities, and staff photos, while those for traditional Korean medicine were medical procedures, staff photos, and images. Conventional medicine consistently presented high SERVQUAL tangibility scores, whereas Korean medicine displayed distinct associations between SERVQUAL categories and image size. Analyses suggested specialty preference by language. These findings may be used to recognize key messages in medical tourism and contribute to its systematic promotion. Abbreviations: KHIDI: Korea health industry development institute; SERVQUAL: service quality
Signs of carotid calcification from dental panoramic radiographs are in agreement with Doppler sonography results.

BACKGROUND Duplex ultrasonography (DS) is a frequently used noninvasive method for assessing carotid artery stenosis. The level of agreement between panoramic radiographs (PMX) findings of radiopacities in the area of C3-C4 and DS results has not been established. AIMS (1) to examine the level of agreement between DS results and PMX signs of carotid calcification and (2) to evaluate the association between periodontitis and DS results. MATERIAL AND METHODS Eighty-three subjects who had received a DS assessment at the University of Washington Medical Center within 36 months volunteered for a periodontal examination, including assessments of probing pocket depth (PPD), attachment level (PAL), evidence of bleeding on probing and bone loss from PMX. Two examiners independently analyzed the radiographs for evidence of carotid calcifications. The distance between the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ) to bone level (BL) CEJ-BL was used to assess alveolar bone loss as a criteria for periodontitis. RESULTS Twenty-nine subjects (34.9%) presented with positive DS readings. The Mantel-Haentszel common odds ratio estimate for a positive DS score and periodontitis (> 30% of teeth with distance CEJ-BL > or = 4.0 mm) was 38.4 (95% CI: 10.6-138.7, p < 0.0001). For nonsmokers only (n = 72) the odds ratio was 43.0 (95% CI: 16.7-1178.0, p < 0.0001). Evidence of bleeding on probing was 16% of sites both in the DS-positive and -negative subjects. Subjects with a positive DS result had significantly more teeth with clinical evidence of attachment loss > or = 5.0 mm (p < 0.001). The odds ratio of having periodontitis (CEJ-BL > or = 4.0 mm at > or = 30% of the teeth) and medical records confirmed diagnosis of either a stroke or an infarct or both was 7.8 (95% CI: 2.6-23.8, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Subjects with positive DS readings of the carotid arteries due to calcified arterial plaque are accurately detected by means of conventional PMX. The likelihood of being DS positive and having radiographic evidence of periodontitis is high. A dose-response relationship between the extent of carotid calcification and severity of periodontitis was demonstrated, supporting the hypothesis of an association between periodontitis and cardiovascular diseases.
Effect of mediastinal lymph nodes sampling in patients with clinical stage I non-small cell lung cancer.

OBJECTIVE Systematic nodal dissection has been recommended for patients with resectable non-small cell lung cancer because of its staging accuracy. However, in patients with clinical stage I non-small cell lung cancer whether systematic nodal dissection provides more benefits than mediastinal lymph node sampling or not is controversial. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the effect of mediastinal lymph node sampling in patients with clinical stage I NSCLC. METHODS One hundred and nineteen consecutive patients with clinical stage I NSCLC, who underwent curative operation between January 1994 and December 2000, were retrospectively reviewed (dissection group = 58: sampling group= 61). Systematic nodal dissection was defined as complete removal of mediastinal lymph node, and mediastinal lymph node sampling was defined as removal of lymph node levels 3, 4, and 7 for right-sided tumors and levels 5, 6, and 7 for left-sided tumors. RESULTS The total number of removed mediastinal lymph nodes in patients who underwent systematic nodal dissection was 22.1 +/- 9.7, which was significantly higher than that in patients who underwent mediastinal lymph node sampling of 11.4 +/- 7.0 (p < 0.001). Postoperatively N2 disease was detected in 8 patients (13.8%) in the dissection group and 7 (11.5%) in the sampling group. After the median follow up of 79 months, the cancer specific survival rate at 5 year was 78.0% in the dissection group and 76.2% in the sampling group (p = 0.60). CONCLUSIONS Mediastinal lymph node sampling showed the similar effect to systematic nodal dissection in patients with clinical stage I non-small cell lung cancer.
Comparison of glomerular filtration rate measured by plasma sample technique, Cockroft Gault method and Gates’ method in voluntary kidney donors and renal transplant recipients

Background: There are numerous methods for calculation of glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which is a crucial measurement to identify patients with renal disease. Aims: The aim of this study is to compare four different methods of GFR calculation. Settings and Design: Clinical setup, prospective study. Materials and Methods: Data was collected from routine renal scans done for voluntary kidney donors (VKD) or renal transplant recipients 6 months after transplantation. Following technetium-99m diethylene triamine penta acetic acid injection, venous blood samples were collected from contralateral arm at 120, 180, and 240 min through an indwelling venous cannula and direct collection by syringe. A total volume of 1 ml of plasma from each sample and standards were counted in an automatic gamma counter for 1 min. Blood samples taken at 120 min and 240 min were used for double plasma sample method (DPSM) and a sample taken at 180 min for single plasma sample method (SPSM). Russell's formulae for SPSM and DPSM were used for GFR estimation. Gates’ method GFR was calculated by vendor provided software. Correlation analysis was performed using Pearson's correlation test. Results: SPSM correlated well with DPSM. GFR value in healthy potential kidney donors has a significant role in the selection of donors. The mean GFR ± (standard deviation) in VKD using SPSM, DPSM, camera depth method and Cockroft Gault method was 134.6 (25.9), 137.5 (42.4), 98.6 (15.9), 83.5 (21.1) respectively. Gates’ GFR calculation did not correlate well with plasma sampling method. Conclusions: Calculation of GFR plays a vital role in the management of renal patients, hence it was noted that Gates GFR may not be a reliable method of calculation. SPSM was more reliable. DPSM is reliable but cumbersome. It is difficult to accurately calculate GFR without a gold standard.
Experimental resolution of cooperative free energies for the ten ligation states of human hemoglobin.

Tetrameric human hemoglobin can assume ten molecular forms that differ in the number and configuration of ligands bound at the four heme sites. For each of these species we have determined the cooperative free energy--i.e., the deviation in free energy of ligation from that which would obtain for the same sites binding as independent alpha and beta subunits. These cooperative free energies were resolved from measurements on the dissociation into dimers of tetramers in which each subunit is either unligated (Fe2+ deoxy) or "ligated" by conversion into the cyanomet form (Fe3+ CN). The results indicate that each hemoglobin tetramer acts as a three-level molecular switch. During the course of ligation, the total cooperative free energy (6 kcal/mol over all four binding steps) is expended in two transitions that are synchronized with particular ligation steps. Whether a cooperative energy transition occurs or not depends upon how the ligation step changes both the number and configuration of ligated subunits. The hemoglobin tetramer is thus a "combinatorial switch. " The finding of three distinct free energy levels for the ten ligation states suggests the existence of three major structural forms of the hemoglobin tetramer.