Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Implant contraception in Singaporean women: one decade of experience in KK Women's and Children's Hospital.

INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to assess user acceptability and effectiveness of implant contraception in Singaporean women. METHODS A prospective study was carried out on 553 patients who received Norplant implant in our hospital from 1 January 1992 to 31 December 2000, and followed-up till 15 July 2003. The patients' profile, side-effects, satisfaction and continuation rate of Norplant implant were studied. RESULTS The mean age of the subjects was 29.4 (plus or minus 5.1) years. The mean parity was 2.1 (plus or minus 1) live births. More than one-half (55.2 percent) of the subjects had used other methods of contraception before. The main reason for them to switch to implant contraception was convenience (63.6 percent). Of the 516 users on follow-up, the common side-effects were menstrual irregularity (51 percent), secondary amenorrhoea (9.6 percent) and weight gain (15.7 percent). 29.3 percent of users did not experience any side-effect. There was only one contraceptive failure, which may be related to drug interaction. The Pearl Index was 0.054 per hundred women years. There was only one serious adverse event of a patient (0.2 percent) who developed severe hypertension requiring treatment. The continuation rate was 92.4 percent after one year, 80.8 percent after two years, 68.9 percent after three years and 58.5 percent after four years. The main reasons for early implant removal were side-effects and desire for future pregnancy. Re-insertion was carried out in 53.7 percent of users who had completed five years of Norplant contraception. CONCLUSION This largest sub-dermal hormonal implant contraception study in multi-racial Singapore showed that Norplant contraception had a high degree of effectiveness with relatively high user satisfaction and continuation rate.
Aboveground carbon storage in a freshwater swamp forest ecosystem in the Niger Delta

ABSTRACT Tropical forests are important stores of carbon but the contribution of freshwater swamp forests to this store is largely unquantified. This study provides detail on the aboveground carbon (AGC) store of freshwater swamp forests and the transition zones into mangrove forests in the Niger Delta. We present taxonomic data of tree stems ≥ 10 cm diameter at breast height (DBH) from 24 1-ha plots established across different disturbance gradients and transition zone and terrestrial forest. The AGC ranged widely around a mean value of 228 t/ha (bootstrapped 95% confidence interval (CI) 168, 288) in intact forests, to 104 t/ha (bootstrapped 95% CI: 64, 144) in disturbed freshwater forests and 100 t/ha (bootstrapped 95% CI: 60, 141) in forests transitional into mangrove characterized by decreased disturbance. Our study suggests that the variations in AGC of West African swamp forests are mainly a function of the differences in stand structure and stem sizes of the trees in each forest that relate largely to historical use and current management of the forest resources. Conserving disturbed forests alongside other intact forests will help to increase not only the carbon budget of the region but also its diverse biodiversity and other ecosystem services.
Clinical and Biochemical Outcomes Following EEG Neurofeedback Training in Traumatic Brain Injury in the Context of Spontaneous Recovery

It has been found that reduction of posttraumatic stress symptoms is positively associated with the reduction of postconcussive symptoms. Cortisol is commonly used as a biomarker of stress. Understanding the role of posttraumatic stress and cortisol in symptom reduction has implication for neuropsychological rehabilitation particularly in the context of spontaneous recovery. Objective. The aim of the research was to study the effectiveness of EEG neurofeedback training on clinical symptoms, perceived stress, and cortisol in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients in the context of spontaneous recovery. Methods. The design was an experimental longitudinal design with the pre-post comparison. The sample comprised 60 patients with the diagnosis of TBI—30 patients in the neurofeedback training (NFT) group and 30 patients in the treatment as usual group (TAU) group. Half of the patients were recruited within 6 months of injury to study the role of spontaneous recovery and the other half were recruited in the 12 to 18 months postinjury phase. Alpha-theta training was given to the NFT group over 20 sessions. Pre and post comparisons were made on clinical symptom rating, perceived stress, and serum cortisol levels. Results. The results indicate significant differences in symptom reporting and perceived stress between the NFT and TAU groups. Significant differences were also seen in cortisol levels with implications for the acute recovery phase. Conclusion. Alpha-theta NFT has a beneficial effect on symptom reduction as well as perceived stress. It also has a beneficial effect on levels of serum cortisol, corroborating these findings.
Infection and thyroid autoimmunity: A seroepidemiologic study of TPOaAb

Infectious agents have been implicated as triggers of autoimmunity. Prospective epidemiologic studies of infection with specific pathogens and the subsequent elevation of specific autoantibodies are difficult and costly to conduct. As a result, a solid body of evidence regarding this theoretically intriguing connection remains to be accrued. We studied term sera from 1807 pregnancies in 1591 women for whom IgG status for cytomegalovirus, Epstein—Barr virus, herpes simplex virus type 1, herpes simplex virus type 2, and/or Toxoplasma gondii was available from prior analyses. We tested the sera (masked regarding infectious status) for autoantibodies to thyroid peroxidase (TPOaAb) and then unmasked and linked them. Adjusted for other cofactors, prior infection with T. gondii was associated significantly with the elevation of TPOaAb, whereas seropositivity for other infections was not. Negative and positive findings for suspected triggers of autoimmunity should be reported to build the evidentiary basis needed to advance our understanding of the disease process. The positive association observed between prior infection with T. gondii and the elevation of TPOaAb is supported by an almost simultaneous study. These findings require further investigation. We believe that if T. gondii is in fact confirmed to trigger or enhance a TPOaAb response, the most likely mechanism involved is the bystander effect.
The physical mechanisms of IG Random Telegraph Noise in deeply scaled pMOSFETs

The physical mechanism of I<sub>G</sub> Random Telegraph Noise (I<sub>G</sub>-RTN) has been studied in deeply scaled pMOSFETs subject to Negative Bias Temperature Stress (NBTS). Using carrier separation technique, we identify the majority carriers in I<sub>G</sub>-RTN are channel holes. By investigating the electric field and temperature dependence of the capture time τ<sub>c</sub> and emission time τ<sub>e</sub> in I<sub>G</sub>-RTN, it is found that the physical origin of I<sub>G</sub>-RTN are NBTS-induced switching traps; Further quantitative analysis of I<sub>G</sub>-V<sub>G</sub> reveal that I<sub>G</sub>-RTN is related to a tunneling process. Based on these results, we propose a tunneling model through NBTS-induced switching traps to explain the discrete gate leakage. The model provides a good agreement between the predicted and experimental data.
The traditional approach to compensating global mobility: criticisms and alternatives

Abstract This paper provides a critical assessment of the traditional approach to compensating global mobility, namely, the balance sheet approach. We begin by briefly explaining it, then, in the light of the new demands of international mobility, we identify some of its shortcomings or weaknesses. Finally, we describe and structure the current landscape of international compensation, highlighting certain alternatives to the traditional system. Overall, we highlight the increasing variety and complexity that characterizes this essential area of global competitive dynamics in human resources.
Replacement of spectrum sensing in cognitive radio

Two major challenges exist in the development and deployment of cognitive radio networks: spectrum sensing and hidden terminal problem. In this research, we consider a network structure where the spectrum sensing task is separated from the unlicensed users (secondary users). The service provider for the secondary users needs to place sensing devices within the networks of licensed users (primary users). These sensing devices sense the primary users' activity. The sensing devices also decide whether to admit a secondary user's transmission. A new cognitive cycle is proposed accordingly. The proposed protocol is analyzed using the theory of Lame curve. The problem of optimally locating sensing devices and the properties of the proposed system are studied for single-user case and multi-user case. For the case without a separate control channel, a low temperature handshake technique is proposed for handshakes between the secondary users and the sensing devices. The other advantage of the proposed scheme is from the business model point of view: the expensive sensing devices will be implemented by the cognitive radio service provider, instead of being built in the secondary user devices which are usually consumer products demanding low cost.
Humorous Responses to Interpersonal Complaints: Effects of Humor Style and Nonverbal Expression

ABSTRACT Based on disposition theory (Zillmann & Cantor, 1996), this study assessed reactions to vignettes in which individuals humorously respond to complaints from their partners. Vignettes varied based upon the sex and affective expression (positive/negative) of the speaker, and style of humor used (affiliative, aggressive, self-enhancing, self-defeating). Although males were rated as funnier than females, speakers were generally rated as more funny and likeable, and evoked less counterarguing, when they had positive facial expressions even when using negative humor styles. Aggressive humor garnered the highest evaluations of funniness, likeability, and credibility, but also the most counterarguing.
Gap junction networks can generate both ripple‐like and fast ripple‐like oscillations

Fast ripples (FRs) are network oscillations, defined variously as having frequencies of > 150 to > 250 Hz, with a controversial mechanism. FRs appear to indicate a propensity of cortical tissue to originate seizures. Here, we demonstrate field oscillations, at up to 400 Hz, in spontaneously epileptic human cortical tissue in vitro, and present a network model that could explain FRs themselves, and their relation to ‘ordinary’ (slower) ripples. We performed network simulations with model pyramidal neurons, having axons electrically coupled. Ripples (< 250 Hz) were favored when conduction of action potentials, axon to axon, was reliable. Whereas ripple population activity was periodic, firing of individual axons varied in relative phase. A switch from ripples to FRs took place when an ectopic spike occurred in a cell coupled to another cell, itself multiply coupled to others. Propagation could then start in one direction only, a condition suitable for re‐entry. The resulting oscillations were > 250 Hz, were sustained or interrupted, and had little jitter in the firing of individual axons. The form of model FR was similar to spontaneously occurring FRs in excised human epileptic tissue. In vitro, FRs were suppressed by a gap junction blocker. Our data suggest that a given network can produce ripples, FRs, or both, via gap junctions, and that FRs are favored by clusters of axonal gap junctions. If axonal gap junctions indeed occur in epileptic tissue, and are mediated by connexin 26 (recently shown to mediate coupling between immature neocortical pyramidal cells), then this prediction is testable.
Citizen-Assisted Performance Measurement? Reassessing Its Viability and Impact

Citizen-assisted performance measurement (CAPM) was a hot topic just a decade or so ago, promoted by enthusiasts as a useful coupling of the performance measurement and citizen participation movements. The idea of engaging citizens in the design of local government performance measures retains some ongoing support today based mostly on normative assumptions and testimonials. A careful review of the premises of CAPM and empirical evidence from CAPM projects, however, reveals weaknesses in the premises and few surviving measures from CAPM projects. The authors’ findings support the view that citizen efforts would more beneficially be directed upstream of performance measurement, with citizens engaged as focus groups to offer views on their local government’s performance objectives and priorities rather than as designers of performance measures.
The changing income demographics of South Africa 1996-2006

This study focuses on the changing income demographics of South Africa during the period 1996-2006, to arrive at an understanding of the nature and magnitude of changes in income demographics, specifically changes in income distribution disaggregated by sex, age and population group. To investigate such changes, available survey-based income data covering the said period was analysed. The results show that females experienced high levels of income growth during the period under discussion, which was brought about by an improved labour market situation for females due to changing policies and practices. The results also show a growing number of low income earners aged 35 years and older, brought about by a combination of capital intensification of the economy and low labour absorption rates. The percentage contribution of Africans to the highest income groups grew rapidly during 1996-2006 due to various reasons, e.g. higher skills levels and more economic opportunities for this population group. Finally, certain conclusions were arrived at based on the data analysis, namely there is (1) growing income depolarisation and repolarisation in South Africa, (2) increasing complexification of income demographics, (3) increasing feminisation of the income landscape and (4) growing affluence among income earners.
PENGARUH LEVERAGE DAN PROFITABILITAS TERHADAP NILAI PERUSAHAAN (Studi pada Perusahaan Property dan Real Estate yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia Periode Tahun 2012-2015)

This study aims to determine the effect of leverage and profitability of the firm value. The research is explanatory research (quantitative research methods explanation). This study used purposive technique sumpling. The population used in this study were 45 companies produce 18 samples based on predetermined criteria. This study uses secondary data from the Indonesia Stock Exchange website in the form of finance report and annual report. Analysis of data using classic assumption test, multiple linear regression test, t test and F test. Variable leverage used in this study is the Debt to Equity Ratio (DER) and Debt Ratio (DR). Variable profitability used directly in this study is Return On Equity (ROE) and Earning Per Share (EPS). Variable firm value in the study use Tobin'sQ. The results showed that the DER, DR, ROE, and EPS significantly jointly to variable Tobin'sQ. There is a significant effect on the DER, DR, and ROE against Tobin'sQ but show no significant EPS variables. Keywords : DER, DR, ROE, EPS, and Tobin’sQ ABSTRAK Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh leverage dan profitabilitas terhadap nilai perusahaan. Penelitian yang digunakan merupakan explanatory research (metode kuantitatif dengan penelitian penjelasan). Penelitian ini menggunakan teknik purposive sumpling. Populasi yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini sebanyak 45 perusahaan menghasilkan 18 sampel berdasarkan kriteria yang telah ditentukan. Penelitian ini menggunakan data sekunder dari website Bursa Efek Indonesia yaitu berupa finance report dan annual report. Analisis data menggunakan uji asumsi klasik, uji regresi linear berganda, uji t dan uji F. Variabel leverage yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Debt to Equity Ratio (DER) dan Debt Ratio (DR). Variabel profitabilitas yang digunakna dalam penelitian ini adalah Return On Equity (ROE) dan Earning Per Share (EPS). Variabel nilai perusahaan dalam penelitian ini menggunakan Tobin’sQ. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa DER, DR, ROE, dan EPS berpengaruh signifikan secara bersama-sama terhadap variabel Tobin’sQ. Terdapat pengaruh signifikan terhadap DER, DR, dan ROE terhadap Tobin’sQ namun variabel EPS menunjukkan tidak signifikan. Kata Kunci : DER, DR, ROE, EPS, dan Tobin’sQ
Pharmacokinetics of Oral Nifedipine: Relevance of the Distribution Phase

Pharmacokinetics of oral Nifedipine was studied in 12 Mexican young healthy volunteers, six men and six women, who received a 10 mg capsule. Plasma levels were determined by a nifedipine specific HPLC assay. Experimental data were fitted and pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using an open two compartment model. No statistically significant difference was detected between men and women, thus both sexes were considered as a single population. Nifedipine plasma levels rose rapidly (ka = 8.46 ± 1.96 h−1) reaching a maximum concentration of 145 ± 23 ng/ml in 0.61 ± 0.07 h. Plasma levels then decayed with a distribution phase (α = 1.98 ± 0.40 h−1 t1/2α = 0.46 ± 0.06 h) and a terminal elimination phase (β = 0.17 ± 0.03 h−1 t1/2β = 4.98 ± 0.55 h). AUC was 384 ± 41 ng h/ml. Values of AUC and t1/2β were higher than those reported by other authors. Differences in the AUC could be due to ethnic origin, environmental factors or nutritional habits. Ten subjects presented plasma concentration‐time curves in which the distribution phase was clearly distinguishable, having a ka/α relationship higher than 1.5. For the other two subjects, the distribution phase was not apparent and ka/α was lower than 1.5. The results show that an adequate characterization of the distribution phase is required if one pretends to use pharmacokinetic data for dosage regimen design.
Palliative care education: an intervention to improve medical residents' knowledge and attitudes.

BACKGROUND Medical care at the end of life remains poor. One approach to improving end-of-life care is through education of medical trainees. However, evidence regarding the structure of an ideal educational intervention is sparse. OBJECTIVE To test an innovative curriculum designed to improve medical resident knowledge and decrease anxiety surrounding end-of-life care. METHODS Quasiexperimental study of medical trainees in a large academic internal medicine residency. Attitudes and knowledge were measured at baseline and at completion of a 1-month clinical ward rotation for both control (n = 40) and intervention groups (n = 30) using the Collett-Lester Death Anxiety Scale (C-LDAS), the Semantic Differential Scale (SDS), and a 16-question knowledge-based test. Residents in the intervention group completed four 1-hour sessions focused on end-of-life issues. RESULTS Baseline anxiety levels were high while knowledge scores were poor. Linear regression modeling demonstrated that pretest scores were the strongest predictor of post-test scores for all three measures. Additional significant predictors for the knowledge test were prior palliative care experience and year of training (p = 0.02), while prior palliative care experience alone contributed to the SDS model (p = 0.06). No significant improvements on the SDS, C-LDAS, or knowledge test occurred after the curriculum intervention. CONCLUSIONS Our classroom intervention had no significant effect on residents' attitudes towards or knowledge of end-of-life care. The fact that prior palliative care experience affects baseline scores provides a strong argument for continued research for an effective curriculum for end-of-life education, perhaps focusing on clinical rather than didactic experiences in palliative care.
Overseas expansion and domestic business restructuring in Japanese firms

In this paper, we examine domestic business restructuring by Japanese multinational enterprises by using establishment-level panel data for the years 2001, 2006, 2009, and 2012. Focusing on the routine-task intensity of establishments, we examine the impact of restructuring in terms of: (1) what type of establishments are closed or newly established; and (2) what type of establishments increase or reduce their employment when a firm becomes multinational. We measure the skill level of each establishment using occupation-level routine-task intensity and occupation composition for each industry. We find that more routine-task intensive establishments have a greater likelihood of exiting the domestic market when the firm becomes multinational. In the case of continuing establishments, less routine-task intensive establishments tend to have a higher employment growth rate when a firm becomes multinational. Our results imply that overseas expansion accelerates domestic business restructuring within multinational enterprises and shifts domestic activities toward less routine-task intensive ones.
Freeze-Thawing Procedures Have No Influence on the Phenotypic and Functional Development of Dendritic Cells Generated from Peripheral Blood CD14+ Monocytes

Little is known about the potential influence of cryopreservation on the biologic activities of dendritic cells (DCs). In this study, we examined the effects of freeze-thawing on the phenotypic and functional development of human DCs obtained from granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)-mobilized peripheral blood CD14+ cells. CD14+ cells were cultured, immediately or after freeze-thawing, with granulocyte-macrophage CSF and interleukin-4 for 9 days, and then with added tumor necrosis factor-&agr; for another 3 days. For both fresh and freeze-thawed monocytes, immature DCs harvested on day 6 and mature DCs harvested on day 9 of culture were examined under the same conditions. Cells were compared with regard to their 1) capacities for antigen endocytosis and chemotactic migration (immature DCs), and 2) allogeneic mixed lymphocyte reaction and antigen-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses (mature DCs). Freeze-thawing did not affect the viability or subsequent maturation of DCs at any stage of development. Furthermore, essentially no difference was observed in phenotype or function between cells generated from fresh or cryopreserved/thawed cells. Although this study design was limited with the use of fetal bovine serum, the observation still suggests that freeze-thawing does not affect viability, phenotype, subsequent maturation, or functions of DCs at any stage of maturation.
Development of a novel artificial medium based on utilization of algal photosynthetic metabolites by symbiotic heterotrophs

Aims: (i) Quantitative and qualitative analyses of photosynthetic metabolites of Chlorella sorokiniana and elucidation of the mechanism of their utilization by algal symbionts. (ii) Development of artificial medium that imitates photoautotroph–heterotroph interaction and investigation of its suitability for isolation of novel microbes from the environment.