Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Serum Lipoprotein(a) in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus

OBJECTIVE To investigate subjects with different types of diabetes mellitus regarding their serum levels of lipoprotein(a). High serum Lp(a) concentration is associated with a high risk of coronary heart disease. Diabetic patients are prone to developing coronary heart disease. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The subjects were 66 type I diabetic patients, 100 type II diabetic patients treated with diet alone or diet combined with oral hypoglycemic agents, and 46 insulin-requiring type II diabetic patients. Subjects were compared with 142 nondiabetic outpatients. RESULTS Subjects with insulin-requiring type II diabetes mellitus were found to have an increase both in serum Lp(a) concentration and in prevalence of serum Lp(a) concentration >30 mg/dl compared with the other groups of diabetic patients and nondiabetic control subjects. A nonsignificant increase in the prevalence of coronary heart disease was also found in insulin-requiring type II diabetic patients. The levels of serum concentrations of Lp(a) were not significantly related to the degree of glycemic control, duration of diabetes, presence of macrovascular disease, or intake of female hormone therapy. High levels of Lp(a) in this group of diabetic patients could not be explained by the presence of albuminuria. CONCLUSIONS Insulin-requiring type II diabetic patients have high levels of Lp(a). Chronic hyperinsulinemia might be an eventual causal factor.
A Qualitative Analysis of High Achieving African-American Females• Perceptions on Factors That Impact on Time High School Graduation in Southeastern Virginia

The purpose of this study was to identify the experiences, attitudes, and successes of a group of high achieving African American female students that impact their on-time high school graduation. On-time graduates are described as students who complete high school in four years. High achieving African-American female students completing high school on time identified factors related to family, school, and community as essential in their success. Several underlying factors are within the three themes that studies show can be used as a way to pilot programs, deter drop-outs from leaving school early, and cohesively work in communities across the United States. A qualitative approach was used to analyze a selected group of high achieving African American females’ perceptions to their success in high school. The research questions were: 1. What school factors do a group of high achieving African-American female students perceive as attributing to their on-time graduation from high school with honors and advanced diplomas? 2. What family influences do these high achieving females perceive as attributes to graduating on-time with honors and advanced diplomas? 3. What community influences do these high achieving African American females’ perceive as contributors to on-time graduation with honors and advanced diplomas? Twenty-four high achieving African American females’ from one high school were eligible to participate in the study. Eight students participated in the study, which included open-ended interview questions and a sentence completion questionnaire. All interview questions were centered on the support provided by the school, community, or family. The results of the study showed parents; specifically the mothers of the participants had the greatest impact on the high achieving African American females’ performance in high
Isolation, identification and characterization of camelpox virus in Iraq

summary A virus was isolated from pox-like lesions in camels during an outbreak of camelpox disease which occurred in December 1977 in an area near the Iraqi–Iranian border. It was identified serologically as a virus of the Orthopoxvirus group. The biological properties of the isolate indicated that it was probably identical with strains of camelpox virus isolated from Iran, Egypt, Kenya and the U.S.S.R.
Protective role of nitric oxide in ischemia and reperfusion injury of the liver.

BACKGROUND The suppressed production of nitric oxide (NO), associated with endothelial dysfunction, is thought to be a cause of ischemia and reperfusion injury of the liver. But findings of the salutary effects of NO enhancement on such injury have been conflicting. In this study, we tested our hypothesis that NO enhancement would attenuate ischemic liver injury. For this purpose, an NO precursor, L-arginine, and a novel NO donor, FK409, were applied to a 2-hour total hepatic vascular exclusion model in dogs. STUDY DESIGN L-arginine was administered IV at a dose of 100 mg/kg twice (n = 5), while 300 mg/kg twice of FK409 was infused continuously into the portal vein (n = 5). The drugs were given to the animals for 30 and 60 minutes before and after ischemia, respectively. Non-treated animals were used as the control (n = 10). Two-week survival, systemic and hepatic hemodynamics indices, liver function tests, energy metabolism, and histopathology were analyzed. RESULTS Both treatments comparably augmented hepatic tissue blood flow, decreased liver enzyme release, and increased high-energy phosphate restoration during the reperfusion period, all of which contributed to rescuing all of the treated animals from the 2-hour total hepatic ischemia. In contrast, ischemia caused 70% mortality in the control group. Histologically, structural abnormality and neutrophil infiltration were markedly attenuated by the treatments. Systemic hypotension was observed in the animals treated with FK409, however. CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate that NO enhancement alleviates the liver injury caused by ischemia and reperfusion. The supplementation of L-arginine, rather than FK409, is considered more applicable to clinical use because of the absence of systemic adverse effects.
Stochastic Non-convex Ordinal Embedding with Stabilized Barzilai-Borwein Step Size

Learning representation from relative similarity comparisons, often called ordinal embedding, gains rising attention in recent years. Most of the existing methods are batch methods designed mainly based on the convex optimization, say, the projected gradient descent method. However, they are generally time-consuming due to that the singular value decomposition (SVD) is commonly adopted during the update, especially when the data size is very large. To overcome this challenge, we propose a stochastic algorithm called SVRG-SBB, which has the following features: (a) SVD-free via dropping convexity, with good scalability by the use of stochastic algorithm, i.e., stochastic variance reduced gradient (SVRG), and (b) adaptive step size choice via introducing a new stabilized Barzilai-Borwein (SBB) method as the original version for convex problems might fail for the considered stochastic non-convex optimization problem. Moreover, we show that the proposed algorithm converges to a stationary point at a rate O(1/T) in our setting, where T is the number of total iterations. Numerous simulations and real-world data experiments are conducted to show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm via comparing with the state-of-the-art methods, particularly, much lower computational cost with good prediction performance.
Enhancing the secretion of recombinant proteins by engineering N‐glycosylation sites

N‐glycosylation is important for the folding and quality control of membrane and secretory proteins. We used mutagenesis to introduce N‐glycosylation sequons in recombinant proteins to improve their secretion in HEK293 cells. Seven recombinant proteins, with or without endogenous N‐glycosylation sequons, were tested by this method. Our results indicate that N‐glycosylation sequons located at the N‐ or C‐terminal are glycosylated at high rates and thus the N‐ and C‐terminal may be convenient sites for effectively attaching oligosaccharide chains. More importantly, introduction of oligosaccharide chains at such positions has been found to improve the secretion levels for the majority of the recombinant proteins in our studies, regardless of endogenous N‐glycosylation, presumably by improving their folding in the endoplasmic reticulum. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog. , 2009
Defining a Global Learning Environment in Higher Education: A Case for the Global Seminar Project

The global learning environment (GLE) was defined in the Global Seminar Project (GSP) to address the issues of change in higher education under the pressure of globalization. A combination of constructivist theory and a deep learning concept provided the framework for answering the following questions: What project components make the course global? and in what ways does Global Seminar contribute to deep learning? Three forms of data collection, including in-depth, open-ended interviews of 20 GSP’s instructors; 11 direct observations of the GSP classroom; and analysis of GSP’s written documents and artifacts. The research findings brought about two co-dependent understandings of the GLE as a conceptual and practical model. Applied to an educational practice, GLE forms a constructive and participatory model: shifting from mass-production knowledge to genuine quality education based on the values of teachers.
Effect of an Orally Active Th2 Cytokine Inhibitor, Suplatast Tosilate, on “Atopic Cough”

Abstract Background – “Atopic cough” is a new clinical entity that presents with isolated chronic bronchodilator-resistant cough accepted in the Japanese Respiratory Society Guidelines for Management of Cough. The essential features are eosinophilic tracheobronchitis, increased cough reflex sensitivity and an atopic constitution. It has been suggested that activated helper Tlymphocytes and the cytokines which are produced by these cells are involved in the pathogenesis, but the relationship between helper T cell-derived cytokines and the airway cough reflex sensitivity remains unknown. Methods – The effect of an orally active Th2 cytokine inhibitor, suplatast tosilate (CAS 94055-76-2, IPD™; 300 mg/day), on the cough response to inhaled capsaicin (CAS 404-86-4) was examined in ten patients with atopic cough. The capsaicin cough threshold, defined as the lowest concentration of capsaicin eliciting five or more coughs, was measured as an index of airway cough reflex sensitivity. The serum total immunoglobulin E (IgE) level and the peripheral blood eosinophil count were also determined after treatment with suplatast tosilate. Results – The cough threshold measured after four weeks of treatment with suplatast tosilate was significantly increased compared to the value obtained with placebo, along with a decrease of the serum IgE level and peripheral eosinophil count. Conclusions – Th2 cytokines may increase the airway cough reflex sensitivity in patients with atopic cough. Oral administration of suplatast tosilate may be a novel therapy for atopic cough.
Analysis of IRF5 gene functional polymorphisms in rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVE Recent findings suggest that interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF-5) may play a crucial role in several cellular processes, including the transcription of genes for inflammatory cytokines. Two genetic variants of the IRF5 gene (rs2004640 in exon 1 and rs2280714 in the 3'-untranslated region) have been shown to exert functional modifications affecting IRF5 messenger RNA splicing and expression, and have been associated with genetic predisposition to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to analyze the possible contribution of the IRF5 gene to the predisposition to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS Three case-control cohorts from Spain (724 RA patients and 542 healthy controls), Sweden (281 RA patients 474 healthy controls), and Argentina (284 RA patients and 286 healthy controls) were independently analyzed. Genotyping for IRF5 rs2004640 and rs2280714 was performed using a TaqMan 5' allele-discrimination assay. RESULTS In the 3 cohorts studied, no statistically significant differences in allele or genotype frequencies of the rs2004640 and rs2280714 IRF5 polymorphisms were observed between RA patients and controls. Accordingly, haplotype analysis revealed that none of the IRF5 haplotypes was associated with genetic predisposition to RA. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that the IRF5 functional polymorphisms analyzed do not seem to be implicated in genetic susceptibility to RA.
Identification of Medically Relevant Nocardia Species with an Abbreviated Battery of Tests

ABSTRACT Identification of Nocardia to the species level is useful for predicting antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and defining the pathogenicity and geographic distribution of these organisms. We sought to develop an identification method which was accurate, timely, and employed tests which would be readily available in most clinical laboratories. We evaluated the API 20C AUX yeast identification system as well as several biochemical tests and Kirby-Bauer susceptibility patterns for the identification of 75 isolates encompassing the 8 medically relevant Nocardia species. There were few biochemical reactions that were sufficiently unique for species identification; of note, N. nova were positive for arylsulfatase, N. farcinica were positive for opacification of Middlebrook 7H11 agar, and N. brasiliensis and N. pseudobrasiliensis were the only species capable of liquefying gelatin. API 20C sugar assimilation patterns were unique for N. transvalensis, N. asteroides IV, and N. brevicatena. There was overlap among the assimilation patterns for the other species. Species-specific patterns of susceptibility to gentamicin, tobramycin, amikacin, and erythromycin were obtained for N. nova, N. farcinica, and N. brevicatena, while there was overlap among the susceptibility patterns for the other isolates. No single method could identify all Nocardia isolates to the species level; therefore, a combination of methods was necessary. An algorithm utilizing antibiotic susceptibility patterns, citrate utilization, acetamide utilization, and assimilation of inositol and adonitol accurately identified all isolates. The algorithm was expanded to include infrequent drug susceptibility patterns which have been reported in the literature but which were not seen in this study.
Price convergence and fundamentals in asset markets with bankruptcy risk: an experiment

I study price convergence in asset markets with indefinite duration induced by existence of bankruptcy risk. By introducing increasing and decreasing fundamental value paths via experimental methodology, this study extends knowledge about traders' incentives in asset markets with indefinite horizons. In most cases, the data indicate significant undervaluation of assets without a buyback value under bankruptcy risk regardless of fundamental value regime. The transaction prices closely follow the fundamental value trend of the asset supported by a terminal value in both definite and indefinite time horizons with constant fundamentals.
Impact of interactive school-based media literacy lessons for reducing internalization of media ideals in young adolescent girls and boys.

OBJECTIVE The primary objective of the current study was to examine the efficacy of single media literacy lessons in reducing media internalization in young adolescents. METHOD Eleven classes of 237 students (100 girls and 137 boys; mean age = 13.79 years, SD = .42) randomly received 1 of 6 lessons. Eating disorder risk factors were assessed at baseline, and the Sociocultural Attitudes Towards Appearance Questionnaire-3 (SATAQ-3) was used to assess media internalization postintervention. RESULTS At postintervention, boys had significantly lower SATAQ-3 scores on 4 of the 5 subscales (effect sizes = .42-.71), whereas girls had significantly lower scores on 1 subscale (effect size = .54). Higher baseline levels of dietary restraint, magazines bought/read, and perceived sociocultural pressure predicted smaller reductions in boys' scores, whereas depression predicted smaller reductions in girls' scores. CONCLUSION The current study provides support that boys be included in eating disorder prevention programs and that media literacy may represent a promising prevention approach.
Smoking habits in patients diagnosed with ANCA associated small vessel vasculitis

Objectives: To study the prevalence of smoking at onset of symptoms in patients with small vessel vasculitis associated with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA). Methods: A retrospective study, in 197 patients with ANCA associated vasculitis, of the history of cigarette smoking at onset of symptoms. Prevalence of smoking in patients with ANCA associated vasculitis was compared with age-specific values for the general population in Germany. Results: 27 (14%) patients were smokers at the time of first disease manifestation (p<0.001, compared with the entire population); 54 (27%) had smoked previously with 1–110 pack-years (median 18) but had stopped ⩾2 years before onset of vasculitis; 116 (59%) patients were lifelong non-smokers. At onset of symptoms, active smokers were younger (median age 42 years) than patients with vasculitis (median 54 years, p<0.01, Mann-Whitney U test) with a lower percentage of women (15%, p<0.005, Fisher’s exact test) than in the entire group (47%). Smokers, non-smokers, or ex-smokers did not differ in organ manifestation, mortality, and development of end stage renal disease and relapse rate. Conclusions: The proportion of active smokers in the group of patients with ANCA associated vasculitis is significantly lower than in the entire population. Cigarette smoking may be associated with a reduced risk of ANCA associated vasculitis.
Nasal and Paranasal Sinuses of the Donkey: Gross anatomy and Computed Tomography

The current work aimed to describe the anatomical findings of the nasal and paranasal sinuses of the donkey by gross anatomical observation of the skull and cadaver head through cross-sections, sagittal sections and computed tomography (CT) imaging. Seven adult donkeys and ten skulls were used in this study. The donkey head had six pairs of sinuses, three paranasal; the frontal, maxillary and sphenopalatine sinuses and three nasal; dorsal, middle and ventral conchal sinuses. The left and right frontal sinuses were completely divided by a thick bony septum. Each frontal sinus is united rostrally with the dorsal conchal sinus forming concho-frontal sinus that communicated directly with the caudal maxillary sinus by fron- tomaxillary opening. The maxillary sinus is divided into rostral and caudal compartments by a thin incomplete bony septum. The caudal maxillary sinus is divided into medial and lateral compartments by the infraorbital canal that run longitudinally through it. The rostral maxillary sinus is communicated with the ventral conchal sinus through the conchomaxillary opening, while the rostral and caudal maxillary sinuses are connected with the middle nasal meatus via the slit-like nasomaxillary opening. Approach to the interior of the frontal, rostral and caudal maxillary was deter- mined. The location, size, and shape of the paranasal sinuses openings (conchomaxillary, nasomaxillary, frontomaxillary and sphenopalatinal openings and opening of middle conchal sinus into caudal maxillary sinus) communicated the sinuses with the nasal cavity were identified in CT. The frontomaxillary opening was the largest opening, while the nasomaxillary opening was the nar- rowest one. CT images with cross-sections provided clear, unobstructed images on the paranasal structures, while paranasal lining was unclear in CT images because of its thin layer.
Prevalence and intensity of gastrointestinal parasites in slaughter pigs at Sanawari slaughter slab in Arusha, Tanzania

This cross sectional study was conducted in Arusha city in March 2014 to establish the prevalence and intensity of different gastrointestinal parasites in different parts of intestines of slaughter pigs at Sanawari slaughter slab in Arusha. A total of 300 intestinal contents were collected from 100 slaughter pigs. Pig origins, sex, age and management systems were gathered from owners before the animal was slaughtered.
the Impact of Complementary and Alternative Treatment Modalities on the Care of Orthopaedic Patients

&NA; The use of complementary and alternative medicine is widespread and popular with the lay public. Although prevalence of use varies among specific patient populations, complementary and alternative medicine, in particular herbal remedies, are widely marketed and used by orthopaedic patients. Herbal supplements can have a negative impact on the perioperative period and may interact with conventional medicines used to manage chronic conditions. Physician‐patient communication often does not include the subject of alternative medicines, leading to underreporting of use. Orthopaedic surgeons should adopt methods to routinely elicit from their patients the use of complementary and alternative medicine and should monitor and counsel patients on potential side effects and drug‐herb interactions. Preoperative instructions should include cessation of the use of herbal supplements.
Willingness-To-Pay for Monorail Services : Case Study in Penang , Malaysia

The main objective of this study is to examine the determinants of consumers’ willingnessto-pay for monorail transportation in Penang (Malaysia). Cross sectional primary survey data with a total of 498 respondents is used for the analysis via a censored regression model. The results demonstrate that habit of recycling, experience in using urban rail-based transportation and problems of insufficient cark parks have the significant effects on the willingness-to-pay for a trip of monorail to travel to work. Whereas, age, gender, ethnicity, income, education and personal perspective on public transportation system are found to have no significant impact on the willingness-to-pay for a trip of monorail to travel to work. Based on these findings, several policies are recommended.
An 8mW ultra low power 60GHz direct-conversion receiver with 55dB gain and 4.9dB noise figure in 65nm CMOS

An ultra low power direct-conversion receiver is demonstrated for V-band 60GHz applications in 65nm CMOS process. The power consumption is significantly reduced by the design of low-power low noise amplifier (LNA), transconductance mixer and variable gain amplifier (VGA). A compact quadrature-hybrid coupler is developed for transconductance mixer for the reduction of both power and area. The proposed receiver (0.34mm2 chip area) is measured with 8mW power, the minimum single-side-band (SSB) noise figure (NF) of 4.9dB, and the maximum power conversion gain of 55dB.
A College Financial Management Center: What Do Students Think?.

With the increasing cost of a college education on the rise, college administrators need to address the long term nancial, psychological, and academic risks associated with the increased responsibility of personal debt. In this qualitative study, college students' perspectives regarding the need for a personal nancial management center at a regional public institution of higher education in the Southwest were obtained. Themes that emerged from participants' responses were: (a) the need and desire to understand personal budgeting, (b) learning about personal nancial management to obtain a sense of independence, and (c) developing personal responsibility as it relates to controlling need versus want purchasing habits. Implications of our ndings are discussed. note: This module has been peer-reviewed, accepted, and sanctioned by the National Council of Professors of Educational Administration (NCPEA) as a signi cant contribution to the scholarship and practice of education administration. In addition to publication in the Connexions Content Commons, this is published in the International Journal of Educational Leadership Preparation, Volume 4, Number 2 (April June 2009) at http://ijelp.expressacademic. org , formatted and edited by Theodore Creighton, Corrine Sackett, Laura Farmer, Virginia Tech.