Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Prednisone and azathioprine compared with prednisone and placebo for treatment of chronic graft-v-host disease: prognostic influence of prolonged thrombocytopenia after allogeneic marrow transplantation.

We conducted a randomized, double-blind comparison of prednisone and placebo (group I) v prednisone and azathioprine (1.5 mg/kg/day) (group II) as early treatment of extensive chronic graft-v-host disease (GVHD). Patients with platelet counts less than 100,000/microL were placed into therapy with prednisone alone (group III). All three groups received identical doses of prednisone (1 mg/kg every other day) and one double-strength trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) tablet twice daily. Between January 1980 and December 1983, 179 previously untreated patients were enrolled and 164 were evaluable. Patients randomized to group I (n = 63) and group II (n = 63) were well matched for prognostic factors; those placed into group III (n = 38) had more frequent acute GVHD and progressive onset of chronic GVHD. Median duration of therapy was 2 years. Complications included diabetes (5%), aseptic necrosis (5%) and infection. For groups I, II, and III, the respective incidence of infection was disseminated varicella, 11%, 24%, 34%; bacteremia, 6%, 11%, 34%; and interstitial pneumonia, 5%, 14%, 18%. Recurrent malignancy was the most frequent cause of death and did not differ significantly across the groups. Nonrelapse mortality, however, did differ: 21% in group I, 40% in group II, and 58% in group III (I v II, P = .003; I v III, P = .001). Forty patients in group I, 30 in group II, and 10 in group III survive with a minimum follow-up of 3.8 years. Karnofsky performance scores for 68 survivors are 90% to 100%, scores for seven survivors are 70% to 89% and scores for five survivors are less than 70%. Actuarial survival at 5 years after transplant is 61% in group I, 47% in group II, and 26% in group III (I v II, P = .03; I v III, P = .0001). Treatment with prednisone alone results in fewer infections and better survival than prednisone and azathioprine in standard-risk chronic GVHD. Treatment with prednisone alone is less effective in high-risk patients with thrombocytopenia, and other strategies are required.
Spectrum of acute poisoning: A retrospective observational study in a tertiary care hospital in North India

Background: Acute poisoning is an important medical emergency and its pattern and outcome varies from place to place. Aims and Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the spectrum of acute poisoning in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study of acute poisoning cases brought to emergency department of a tertiary care hospital from 1st January to 30th June 2015. Result: Total 256 cases of acute poisoning were recorded over a period of 6 months. Acute poisoning was common in men, and age group of 18–25 years was the most affected. The most common offending agent was agricultural pesticides (28.5%) and in this group mortality was maximum with aluminum phosphide (43.4%). The case fatality with unknown agents was reported to be (12.8%). Conclusion: From the results of this study, we conclude that acute poisoning is a common problem and male population is the most affected. Organophosphorous is a common poisoning and aluminum phosphide accounted for majority of fatal outcome. The outcome of this study underscores the importance of proper storage, distribution, sale and disposal of the pesticides, and advanced laboratory support.
Early interdisciplinary intensive rehabilitation significantly improves the quality of life of stroke survivors: a multi-center study

Abstract Background: Interdisciplinary and intensive stroke rehabilitation programs have been shown to be positively correlated with improved functional outcomes. However, data regarding their combined use on the quality of life (QOL) of stroke survivors appears scant. Objective: To evaluate whether interdisciplinary intensive rehabilitation programs for stroke survivors can improve their health-related QOL (HRQOL) scores and whether the timing of the interdisciplinary intensive rehabilitation has a significant effect on HRQOL scores. Materials and Methods: This was a multi-center, prospective study. Patients were retrospectively selected from the Thai Stroke Rehabilitation Registry database. Three hundred seventy-six stroke patients from nine main tertiary hospitals in Thailand who had received acute stroke rehabilitation were screened between March and December 2006. Two hundred seven patients completed World Health Organization Quality of Life scale abbreviated Thai version (WHOQOL-BREF-Thai) questionnaires and were divided into two groups based on the time after onset of stroke to start interdisciplinary intensive rehabilitation: sub-acute (<1 month) and chronic (≥1 month). WHOQOL-BREF-Thai questionnaires were composed of four domains (physical health, psychological well being, social relationships and environment satisfaction), which were administered to the patients before and after interdisciplinary intensive rehabilitation to assess QOL. Results: After interdisciplinary intensive rehabilitation, patients from both groups showed significant improvement in their quality of life in all domains, sex life and family relationships. However, patients from the sub-acute group had more significant improvement in their environment domain, family relationships and overall WHOQOL scores than those in the chronic group. Conclusion: Early interdisciplinary intensive stroke rehabilitation can significantly improve environment domain, family relationships and overall WHOQOL of stroke patients.
The standardisation of terminology of lower urinary tract function in children and adolescents

We updated the terminology in the field of paediatric lower urinary tract function. Discussions were held of the board of the International Children's Continence Society and an extensive reviewing process was done, involving all members of the International Children's Continence Society as well as other experts in the field. New definitions and a standardised terminology are provided, taking into account changes in the adult sphere and new research results.
Adults with neuro-disabling conditions: Exploring the ways music therapy can support residents in a long term care facility

This exegesis presents findings which emerged from secondary review of clinical practice data collected during a music therapy placement. The setting for this research is a long-term residential care facility for people with a variety of physical and neurological conditions, including cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, stroke and multiple sclerosis, aged 18 to 65. The aim of the facility is to maximise the quality of life for people with physical disabilities and those with terminal illnesses. The research aim was to develop theory about how music therapy can provide support to people with long term neurological conditions. Thematic analysis was employed to develop core themes about the support that music therapy has provided. These findings are presented under the following six themes: building relationships, collaborative practices, fostering community, acknowledging diversity, emotional support and musical engagement. These themes all focus on relatedness, and the quality of life of individuals, groups and the community. They also indicate the value of a flexible community-centred approach for delivering music therapy. A vignette from clinical practice is included to illustrate important points made in the exegesis. The study complements other music therapy research situated within a health-care perspective and could offer particular significance for new music therapy practitioners looking to understand and work with people with neuro-disabilities in long term care facilities.
The Effect of Risk Factors on Quality of Life in Childhood Asthma Çocukluk Çaği Astiminda Risk Faktörlerinin Yaşam Kalitesine Olan Etkisi

Objective: This study was conducted to assess the Quality of Turkish children with asthma and its associated risk factors by using the PAQLQ (Pediatric Asthma Quality Of Life Questionnaire). Methods: One hundred fifty children with asthma aged between 7-17 who were attending the out-patient clinic of the Pediatric Allergy and Immunology section were selected for the study between March 2009-March 2011. Asthma severity was made according to the Global Initiative for Asthma-GINA. Quality of Life (QoL) was measured by the Turkish version of the Pediatric Asthma Quality Of Life Questionnaire (PAQLQ). A total QoL
Exploring the impact of traditional and block scheduling: An examination of high school student achievement (algebra, biology and English), attendance rates, and disciplinary incidents

Title of Document: EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF TRADITIO NAL AND BLOCK SCHEDULING: AN EXAMINATION OF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT (ALGEBRA, BIOLOGY AND ENGLISH), ATTENDANCE RATES, AND DISCIPLINARY INCIDENTS Darlene Marie Harris, Doctor of Education, 2014 Dr. Carol S. Parham, Professor of Practice, Organi zational Leadership and Policy Studies The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which high school scheduling affects students’ academic achievement, attendance, d disciplinary incidents. The study compared 2009-2013 data from high schools uti lizing the A/B block schedule and high schools using a traditional schedule in a midAtlantic state. This study used quantitative methods to describe, analyze, and inte rpret algebra, biology, and English HSA scores as well as attendance rates and discipli nary ncidents from 2009-2013. Correlation coefficients and independent t-tests we re conducted to analyze the difference between the two schedule designs with respect to th ree achievement indicators: algebra, biology and English HSA scores. The findings yield ed the following conclusions: (a) students experienced higher algebra scores on the A /B traditional schedule than the block schedule only in the year 2009; (b) students experi enced higher biology scores on the traditional schedule than the A/B block schedule in all five years; (c) students experienced higher English scores on the traditiona l schedule than the A/B block schedule only in 2010; (d) student attendance rates were similar for high schools that use A/B block schedule and those that use the tradition al schedule; (e) disciplinary incidents decreased more for students under the traditional s chedule than students under the A/B block schedule in the years 2011 and 2013. Recomme ndations for research included: recruitment and retention of quality teachers, exam ine the relationship between school schedules and biology courses, and research additio nal factors, such as FARMS, socioeconomic, urban/suburban students that may pla y a significant role in student academic achievement. Recommendations for policy/p ractice included: utilization of the traditional schedule for biology classes, using par t of the teacher evaluation to monitor progress and academic achievement, and to look at s tudents’ perceptions and performances in middle and high schools. This shou ld also include teachers’ and parents perceptions. EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF TRADITIONAL AND BLOCK SCHEDULING: AN EXAMINATION OF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT (ALGEBRA, BIOLOGY AND ENGLISH), ATTENDANCE RATES, AND DISCIPLINARY INCIDENTS by Darlene Marie Harris Dissertation submitted to the Faculty of the Gradua te School of the University of Maryland, College Park, in partial fu fillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Education 2014 Advisory Committee: Professor Carol S. Parham, Chair Dr. Gilbert Austin Dr. Helene K. Cohen Dr. Dennis M. Kivlighan Dr. Randy McGinnis © Copyright by Darlene Marie Harris 2014
A case study of the experiences of five former and current urban non-traditional superintendents

A Case Study of the Experiences of Five Former and Current Urban Non-Traditional Superintendents. (May 2008) Maria Severita Sanchez, B.A., Laredo State University; M.S., Laredo State University; M.S., Texas A&I, Kingsville Chair of Advisory Committee: Dr. Gwendolyn Webb-Johnson A growing number of traditional school boards and city mayors are looking for the next generation of school superintendents to come prepared with a variety of professional backgrounds to provide instructional leadership for school districts. The primary purpose of this qualitative study was to examine and describe the experiences, of five urban non-traditional superintendents. Associated research methods, namely interviews with study participants and the identification of major themes emerging from the data, were employed. Six emergent themes were revealed, including change agent, accountability, political connection/clout, school reform, student achievement and excellent leadership. Profiles of the participants were offered to provide a context for the results of this study. In relation to the major themes, these participants believed that their backgrounds in corporate worlds and other professions uniquely prepared them for the increased challenges of today’s school superintendency. They all indicated that they assumed the helms in their respective school systems for altruistic reasons. However, once on the job, the participants noted that they suffered personally and professionally. They found themselves victims of little respect from the community, media and from their own
Mini-screws, a viable adjunct along with Incognito lingual appliance: A case series

Invisible orthodontics have been around for too long, and with the advent of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing technology appliances such as Incognito TM has made the whole treatment experience more pleasant and aesthetic. However, even in lingual orthodontics, biomechanics play the most important role, and the use of temporary anchorage devices (TADs) has made the whole treatment more effective and efficient. This article focuses on cases where TADs in lingual appliances play a critical role in the treatment of various malocclusions.
Mechanism of action of human activated protein C, a thrombin-dependent anticoagulant enzyme

Human protein C was purified. and the mechanism of action of activated protein C as an anticoagulant in plasma was studied. Protein C was purified from commercial factor IX concentrate by DEAE-Sephadex and dextran sulfate-Sepharose chromatography and preparative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Purified protein C appeared homogenous at 62.000 mol wt on nonreduced SDS-polyacrylamide gels and. following reduction. protein C gave two polypeptide chains of 40.000 and 22.000 mol wt. Protein C was activated by immobilized trypsin or thrombin or by soluble thrombin. Activated protein C markedly prolonged the prothrombin time and the activated partial thromboplastin time of normal plasma. but had no effect on the thrombin time. Activated protein C exhibited amidolytic enzyme activity. DFP inhibited both the amidolytic and anticoagulant activities. Activated protein C was added to human plasma in the presence or
Percepción del ambiente y práctica de actividad física en adultos residentes en región de bajo nivel socioeconómico

OBJETIVO: Analizar la asociacion de la practica de actividad fisica con la percepcion del ambiente comunitario por adultos. METODOS: Se realizo estudio transversal con 890 personas en el distrito de Ermelino Matarazzo en Sao Paulo, Sureste de Brasil, 2007. Las variables dependientes fueron la practica de por lo menos 150 minutos por semana de: actividad fisica como recreacion y caminata como forma de traslado. Las variables independientes fueron las de ambiente y las de ajuste fueron sexo, edad, escolaridad y tiempo de residencia en el domicilio. RESULTADOS: Presentaron asociacion con la actividad fisica como recreacion: ser invitado por amigos/vecinos para la practica, la presencia de clubes a menos de diez minutos caminando desde las residencias y la ausencia de bares a menos de diez minutos caminando desde las residencias. CONCLUSIONES: La seguridad general fue asociada con la caminata como traslado. Para la promocion de la actividad fisica en regiones de mayor inequidad social es primordial invertir en seguridad publica e instalaciones para la practica, asi como la promocion de redes de apoyo social.
Fieldwork-related factors and data quality in the Demographic and Health Surveys program

The purpose of this report is to describe the association between fieldwork-related factors and the quality of the data collected in the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) program. Broadly the findings of this report confirm expectations: fieldwork in rural areas is often subject to more data quality concerns and care must be taken to ensure that language does not pose a barrier to the collection of high-quality data. More specifically the results provide opportunities for individual countries to examine the results in light of their field practices and make adjustments as needed for future DHS surveys. General recommendations derived from these results are already standard practice in the DHS surveys: 1. All due emphasis should be placed on hiring interviewers based on their knowledge of local languages proportional to the distribution of languages among clusters. 2. Ensuring that questionnaires are translated into as many local languages as practicable is likely to be a useful step toward improving data quality. 3. The beginning and end of the fieldwork period may be particularly sensitive times as interviewers are first learning the practice in the beginning and toward the end of fieldwork may be fatigued and want to go back to their families. These realities call for increased careful supervision of fieldwork during these sensitive periods with an eye to ensuring that fieldworkers have the support that they need to do their job well. Care must be taken when interpreting these descriptive findings with thoughtful consideration given to the country-specific context in which the results were obtained. Nevertheless the information presented in this report may help DHS staff and implementing agencies to identify country-specific fieldwork practices that could be modified to improve data quality. While there are several key general recommendations for ensuring the quality of DHS data it is critical that implementing agencies and DHS staff alike ensure a continuous assessment of the situation on the ground during the fieldwork period. Ensuring rapid feedback from the field allows for course adjustments to be made in an efficient manner thus maintaining the highest possible standards of data quality.
Perfil de los accidentes de trabajo en el Hospital Universitário de Brasília

Este estudo analisa a prevalencia dos acidentes de trabalho de enfermagem no HUB, ocorridos de julho de 2002 a julho de 2003, a fim de dimensionar a magnitude do problema e propor acoes preventivas. Trata-se de uma abordagem com base no metodo qualitativo do tipo exploratorio-descritivo. Identificaram-se 68 Comunicacoes Internas de Acidentes de Trabalho (CIATs). A manipulacao de perfurocortantes corresponde a 62,38% das atividades que ocasionaram acidentes. Pela manha, ocorreram 52,94% dos acidentes. Dos profissionais acidentados, 76,47% sao do sexo feminino. A categoria de auxiliar de enfermagem sofreu 26,47% dos acidentes. A Clinica Medica e o Centro de Pronto Atendimento (CPA) registraram cada 11,76% dos acidentes. As maos foram as regioes do corpo mais acometidas, com 63,20% dos casos.
Minimal Residual Disease Status Before Allogeneic Bone Marrow Transplantation Is an Important Determinant of Successful Outcome for Children and Adolescents With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

The efficacy of allografting in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is heavily influenced by remission status at the time of transplant. Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based minimal residual disease (MRD) analysis, we have investigated retrospectively the impact of submicroscopic leukemia on outcome in 64 patients receiving allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) for childhood ALL. Remission BM specimens were taken 6 to 81 days (median, 23) before transplant. All patients received similar conditioning therapy; 50 received grafts from unrelated donors and 14 from related donors. Nineteen patients were transplanted in first complete remission (CR1) and 45 in second or subsequent CR. MRD was analyzed by PCR of Ig or T-cell receptor δ or γ rearrangements, electrophoresis, and allele-specific oligoprobing. Samples were rated high-level positive (clonal band evident after electrophoresis; sensitivity 10−2 to 10−3), low-level positive (MRD detected only after oligoprobing; sensitivity 10−3 to 10−5), or negative. Excluding 8 patients transplanted in CR2 for isolated extramedullary relapse (all MRD−), MRD was detected at high level in 12 patients, low level in 11, and was undetectable in 33. Two-year event-free survival for these groups was 0%, 36%, and 73%, respectively ( P < .001). Follow-up in patients remaining in continuing remission is 20 to 96 months (median, 35). These results suggest that MRD analysis could be used routinely in this setting. This would allow identification of patients with resistant leukemia (who may benefit from innovative BMT protocols) and of those with more responsive disease (who may be candidates for randomized trials of BMT versus modern intensive relapse chemotherapy).
Clinical Study of Obesity and associated morbidities in patients admitted to College of Medical Sciences Teaching-Hospital, Bharatpur

Background and Objectives: The present study was conducted with objective to study the incidence of obesity and associated co-morbidities in patients admitted to CMS-TH, Bharatpur. Materials and Methods: One hundred and fifty consecutive overweight patients from the January 2009 to December 2012 with Basal metabolic index (BMI)>25 and obese patients (BMI>30) were included in this hospital based prospective study. Detailed evaluation of risk factors and family history of other diseases were taken, other obesity related indicators like WPRO, 2000 for BMI, waist circumference (NCEP ATP III and NCEP for South Asian ethnicity) NCEP– National Cholesterol Education Program and waist hip ratio (WHO criteria) were measured and comparison done in order to detect best method for application. These cases were evaluated for associated co-morbid condition and metabolic syndrome which were diagnosed using NCEP ATP III criteria. Results: The mean age of patients was 52.7 years. Commonest co-existing risk factors were alcohol consumption, smoking, hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Evaluation based on WHO criteria revealed that 56.7% patients were overweight, 38.7 % were obese class II and 4.6 % were class II. While 45.1% male and 69.1% female patients had central obesity. The figure was 81.7 % for males and 94.1% for females with WHO criteria using waist hip ratio. Risk factors like alcohol consumption (52.7%), smoking (52.7%) and fatty liver disease (22.66%) were the commonest co-morbid conditions. Conclusion: In the present study, risk factors of alcohol, smoking and hypertension and co-morbid conditions diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, ischemic heart disease, stroke and fatty liver were noted. Waist hip ratio was the best indicator to detect central obesity and co-morbid conditions and recommended to be used for Nepali population. JCMS Nepal. 2015;11(3):16-19