Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Novel Treatment Decision Tree and Literature Review of Retrograde Peri-Implantitis.

BACKGROUND Although retrograde peri-implantitis (RPI) is not a common sequela of dental implant surgery, its prevalence has been reported in the literature to be 0.26%. Incidence of RPI is reported to increase to 7.8% when teeth adjacent to the implant site have a previous history of root canal therapy, and it is correlated with distance between implant and adjacent tooth and/or with time from endodontic treatment of adjacent tooth to implant placement. Minimum 2 mm space between implant and adjacent tooth is needed to decrease incidence of apical RPI, with minimum 4 weeks between completion of endodontic treatment and actual implant placement. The purpose of this study is to compile all available treatment modalities and to provide a decision tree as a general guide for clinicians to aid in diagnosis and treatment of RPI. METHODS Literature search was performed for articles published in English on the topic of RPI. Articles selected were case reports with study populations ranging from 1 to 32 patients. Any case report or clinical trial that attempted to treat or rescue an implant diagnosed with RPI was included. RESULTS Predominant diagnostic presentation of a lesion was presence of sinus tract at buccal or facial abscess of apical portion of implant, and subsequent periapical radiographs taken demonstrated a radiolucent lesion. On the basis of case reports analyzed, RPI was diagnosed between 1 week and 4 years after implant placement. Twelve of 20 studies reported that RPI lesions were diagnosed within 6 months after implant placement. A step-by-step decision tree is provided to allow clinicians to triage and properly manage cases of RPI on the basis of recommendations and successful treatments provided in analyzed case reports. It is divided between symptomatic and asymptomatic implants and adjacent teeth with vital and necrotic pulps. CONCLUSIONS Most common etiology of apical RPI is endodontic infection from neighboring teeth, which was diagnosed within 6 months after implant placement. Most common findings, radiographically and clinically, are lesions around implant apex and sinus tract. A small number of implants did not improve with treatment. Decision tree provides a path to diagnose and treat lesions to facilitate their management. Further studies are needed to focus on histologic data around periapical microbiota to establish specific etiology and differential diagnoses compared with marginal peri-implantitis and other implant-related conditions.
Differential Weighting of Objective Versus Subjective Measures in Performance Evaluation: Experimental Evidence

Abstract In this paper, we conduct two experiments to investigate how managers’ differential weighting of objective versus subjective measures affects their performance-evaluation decisions. Drawing on psychological theory, we predict that managers heuristically perceive objective measures to be more scientific than subjective measures. As a result, their performance-evaluation decisions are influenced more by objective measures than by subjective measures. Experimental results are consistent with our prediction. Supplemental analyses further support our theory by showing that participants do not perceive objective measures to be more important for performance evaluation nor do they perceive subjective measurement to be inappropriate. The implications of our findings for management accounting research and practice are discussed.
Hugging my uncle: the impact of a parent training on children's comfort interacting with persons living with HIV.

OBJECTIVE HIV-related stigma affects not only persons living with HIV (PLwHIV) but also their communities and families including children. This study aimed to determine whether an interactive training administered to community parents significantly increases their children's reported comfort interacting with PLwHIV. METHODS A randomized clinical trial with random-quota dwelling unit sampling and a random invitation to treatment had 238 parent and 238 child participants. RESULTS For children of trained parents, significant increases in comfort were obtained, baseline to 6-month follow-up, on 14 of 22 reported daily activities with PLwHIV. For children who recently interacted with a person living with HIV, this comfort predicted the number of recent activities, even after controlling for closeness to the person living with HIV and for the number of persons with HIV known, living or deceased. CONCLUSIONS Training parents to be HIV health educators of their children significantly impacts youth and shows promise for reducing HIV-related stigma and social isolation.
Randomized evaluation of a novel, fixed-dose combination of perindopril 3.5 mg/amlodipine 2.5 mg as a first-step treatment in hypertension

Objective: To evaluate perindopril 3.5 mg/amlodipine 2.5 mg once daily, a novel fixed-dose combination adapted for first-step treatment in patients with hypertension. This fixed dose had to be equivalent to amlodipine 5 mg in terms of blood pressure efficacy, but with an expected better tolerability profile. We selected two drugs with complementary modes of action, with doses chosen so that each drug would contribute similarly to the overall blood pressure-lowering effect Methods: An international, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with six equal parallel treatment arms and an 8-week randomized treatment period, whose design, clinical significance and non-inferiority criteria were in accordance with European guidelines. Results: In all, 1581 patients with mild-to-moderate uncomplicated hypertension (mean age 51.7 years) were randomized and 94.7% completed the study. The combination was statistically and clinically superior to placebo (between-group differences: SBP: −7.22 mmHg, DBP: −4.12 mmHg, P < 0.001 for both). Rates of response and normalization of blood pressure were greater with the combination (P < 0.001 for both) and numerical differences relative to placebo were apparent at 2 weeks. The combination was superior to either component given singly (P < 0.001 for both drugs, for SBP and DBP), and was non-inferior to both component drugs given singly at their lowest clinically-approved doses. The components of the combination had similar effects on SBP (perindopril 3.5 mg: −16.3 mmHg; amlodipine 2.5 mg: −16.0 mmHg). Adverse events relating to peripheral oedema were less frequent with the combination than with amlodipine 5 mg. Conclusions: The observed blood pressure-lowering efficacy, rapidity of onset of effect and favourable safety profile of the combination perindopril 3.5 mg/amlodipine 2.5 mg indicate its potential suitability for use as first-step treatment in hypertension.
Ewing's sarcoma and peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor cells produce large quantities of bioactive tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) after radiation exposure.

PURPOSE In the present study, we examined human Ewing's sarcoma (ES) and peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor (pPNET) cell lines that are able to produce TNF-alpha as part of the response to irradiation. Radiation-induced tumor cell production of TNF-alpha may enhance irradiation efficacy and improve the effect of local tumor irradiation. On the other hand, radiation-induced tumor cell production of TNF-alpha may adversely affect the normal tissue. METHODS AND MATERIALS Twelve different ES/pPNET cell lines were investigated in vitro and (after establishment as tumor xenografts in athymic nude mice) in vivo for their TNF-alpha mRNA expression (real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction) and TNF-alpha protein production (in vitro: enhanced amplified sensitivity immunoassay; in vivo: immunohistochemistry) after exposure to different irradiation doses (2, 5, 10, 20, 30, or 40 Gy) and after different time intervals (1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, or 72 h after irradiation). The bioactivity of the TNF-alpha protein was evaluated in chromogenic cytotoxicity and neutralization assays. RESULTS Nine out of 12 ES/pPNET cell lines express constitutively significant quantities of bioactive TNF-alpha in vitro. ES/pPNET cells originating from primary tumors secreted higher TNF-alpha levels than cells derived from metastatic lesions. In 5 of the 9 TNF-alpha-producing cell lines, TNF-alpha mRNA and protein levels were upregulated after irradiation exposure in a time- and dose-dependent manner. After establishment of the ES/pPNET cell lines in athymic nude mice, the radiation-induced TNF-alpha release could be demonstrated also in the xenograft tumors in vivo (analogous to the in vitro experiments). Using the same methods for quantitative analysis, it was determined that the TNF-alpha expression of the radiation-responsive tumor cells was up to 2000-fold higher compared to the maximal radiation-induced TNF-alpha release in normal lung tissue measured during the pneumonic phase. CONCLUSION Certain ES/pPNET cell lines produce extremely large quantities of bioactive TNF-alpha after radiation exposure in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Radiation-induced TNF-alpha production of tumor cells may be of paramount importance in respect to not only tumor behavior, but also to potential damage to normal tissue and the clinical status of the host.
The diagnostic accuracy of biomarkers for diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in anti-mitochondrial antibody (AMA)-negative PBC patients: a review of literature

Abstract Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), also known as primary biliary cirrhosis, is an autoimmune disease of the liver characterized by anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA) in 90%–95% of patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of several serum biomarkers in patients with PBC but negative for AMA. Some antinuclear antibodies (ANA) pattern, detected by indirect immunofluorescence (IIF), such as multiple nuclear dot (MND) and rim-like patterns are well-known to be specific for PBC. The corresponding nuclear antigens are the components of the nuclear pore complex (Gp210 for rim-like pattern) and Sp100, PML proteins (for MND pattern) detectable by immunoblotting and ELISA methods. More recently, new biomarkers have been evaluated in order to improve the diagnostic sensitivity, such as kelch-like 12 (KLHL12) and hexokinase-1. Considering these different serum biomarkers, studies evaluating their diagnostic role in AMA-negative PBC patients compared to AMA-positive ones and controls were included in this review. Pooled sensitivity and specificity were 37% and 85%, respectively. The overall PPV and NPV mean values were 45% and 83%. Even if all biomarkers are very specific for PBC, the overall sensitivity was poor and therefore is necessary to identify a marker with a greater sensitivity for PBC in AMA-negative patients.
Unravelling the adiponectin paradox: novel roles of adiponectin in the regulation of cardiovascular disease

Adipose tissue (AT) has recently been identified as a dynamic endocrine organ secreting a wide range of adipokines. Adiponectin is one such hormone, exerting endocrine and paracrine effects on the cardiovascular system. At a cellular and molecular level, adiponectin has anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant and anti‐apoptotic roles, thereby mitigating key mechanisms underlying cardiovascular disease (CVD) pathogenesis. However, adiponectin expression in human AT as well as its circulating levels are increased in advanced CVD states, and it is actually considered by many as a ‘rescue hormone’. Due to the complex mechanisms regulating adiponectin's biosynthesis in the human AT, measurement of its levels as a biomarker in CVD is highly controversial, given that adiponectin exerts protective effects on the cardiovascular system but at the same time its increased levels flag advanced CVD. In this review article, we present the involvement of adiponectin in CVD pathogenesis and we discuss its role as a clinical biomarker.
Co-Expression of KIT Receptor and Its Ligand Stem Cell Factor in Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Background/Aims: KIT receptor has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer, either by mutation or autocrine activation. Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare KIT-positive cutaneous tumor. We investigated the co-expression of KIT and its ligand stem cell factor (SCF) in MCC. Methods: Sixteen specimens from 13 MCC patients of various tumor stages were examined by immunohistochemistry for SCF, KIT, Ki67/MIB-1 and cleaved caspase 3 expression, and for apoptosis by TUNEL. Results: KIT was expressed in 13 of 16 tumors, and SCF in 15 of 16 specimens. Co-expression of KIT and SCF was detected in 12 of 16 tumors. KIT and SCF immunoreactivity scores were independent of tumor stage. Ki67/MIB-1 proliferation rates were high, whereas apoptosis rates were low, and did not depend on KIT or SCF expression. Conclusion: Co-expression of KIT and SCF in a high percentage of MCC tumors hints to an autocrine mechanism. KIT and SCF expression in primary tumors and in metastases suggests an early event in Merkel cell transformation.
The Heterogeneity of Capacity Distributions Among Different Freeway Lanes

The stochastic nature of highway capacity has drawn increasing attention in recent studies, where the capacity distributions are usually estimated for whole freeway sections using aggregated data from multiple lanes. However, those cross section–based capacity models cannot be used to assess the risk of semi-congested states observed, in which traffic breaks down on certain lanes while still flowing uninterruptedly on others. This study attempts to investigate the freeway capacity heterogeneity among individual lanes using robust statistical estimation methods. Four diverge sections of different interstate highways in California were selected for the study. Optimal threshold speed was identified for each lane by maximizing the average reduction of traffic efficiency, which was defined as the product of mean speed and volume. Capacity observations were obtained for individual lanes, and censoring was indicated, both based on the optimal threshold speeds. Log-rank and Wilcoxon tests were conducted, and the results confirmed the heterogeneity of capacity distributions among lanes of the same freeway section and showed the necessity of estimating capacity distributions for individual lanes separately. A Bayesian hierarchical Weibull model based on censored capacity data was used to estimate these lane-specific capacity distributions. The model parameters are allowed to vary across freeway sections to account for unobserved heterogeneity and accordingly to improve the accuracy of estimations. In addition, censored data issues are adequately addressed in the proposed model. It is found that breakdown probability would be overestimated if censoring is ignored. The proposed model can provide useful insights when diagnosing bottlenecks with semi-congested cases, which may be neglected by the cross section–based models.
Reduced relapse rate in duodenal ulcer disease leads to normalization of psychological distress: twelve‐year follow‐up

Background: The aim of this study was to elucidate the relationship between duodenal ulcer (DU) disease and psychological symptoms. Methods: Sixty‐four Helicobacter pylori‐positive patients with frequently relapsing DUs (patient group 1) were compared with 78 control subjects without dyspepsia, starting 2 years before and ending 10 years after eradication of H. pylori. Seven non‐relapsing and untreated patients (patient group 2) were also followed‐up. Results: The relapse rate was reduced from 100% per year in the two years before anti‐H. pylori treatment to 0.3% per year after treatment in patient group 1. The reinfection rate was 0.7% per year. Anxiety and neuroticism were high at inclusion, but had normalized at the 10‐year follow‐up in relapse‐free patients. There was no increase of gastro‐oesophageal reflux symptoms during the 10 years after H. pylori eradication. Conclusions: Normalization of anxiety and neuroticism following cure of DU disease supports the view that the increased anxiety and neuroticism are consequences, and not causes, of the disease.
Distinct Dimer Interaction and Regulation in Nitric-oxide Synthase Types I, II, and III*

Homodimer formation activates all nitric-oxide synthases (NOSs). It involves the interaction between two oxygenase domains (NOSoxy) that each bind heme and (6R)-tetrahydrobiopterin (H4B) and catalyze NO synthesis from l-Arg. Here we compared three NOSoxy isozymes regarding dimer strength, interface composition, and the ability ofl-Arg and H4B to stabilize the dimer, promote its formation, and protect it from proteolysis. Urea dissociation studies indicated that the relative dimer strengths were NOSIIIoxy ≫ NOSIoxy > NOSIIoxy (endothelial NOSoxy (eNOSoxy) ≫ neuronal NOSOXY (nNOSoxy) > inducible NOSoxy (iNOSoxy)). Dimer strengths of the full-length NOSs had the same rank order as judged by their urea-induced loss of NO synthesis activity. NOSoxy dimers containingl-Arg plus H4B exhibited the greatest resistance to urea-induced dissociation followed by those containing either molecule and then by those containing neither. Analysis of crystallographic structures of eNOSoxy and iNOSoxy dimers showed more intersubunit contacts and buried surface area in the dimer interface of eNOSoxy than iNOSoxy, thus revealing a potential basis for their different stabilities. l-Arg plus H4B promoted dimerization of urea-generated iNOSoxy and nNOSoxy monomers, which otherwise was minimal in their absence, and also protected both dimers against trypsin proteolysis. In these respects, l-Arg alone was more effective than H4B alone for nNOSoxy, whereas for iNOSoxy the converse was true. The eNOSoxy dimer was insensitive to proteolysis under all conditions. Our results indicate that the three NOS isozymes, despite their general structural similarity, differ markedly in their strengths, interfaces, and in how l-Arg and H4B influence their formation and stability. These distinguishing features may provide a basis for selective control and likely help to regulate each NOS in its particular biologic milieu.
Islamic religiosity and portfolio allocation: the Malaysian context

Purpose - This study aims to investigate the association between Muslim individuals’ portfolio allocation choice and Islamic religiosity (levels and dimensions), controlling for risk tolerance and sociodemographic factors. Design/methodology/approach - The study uses primary data collected via survey questionnaires from a sample of 751 Muslim working individuals in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Owing to the ordinal nature of the dependent variable, which reflects the levels of proportions of risky assets in portfolios, the data were analyzed using an ordered probit regression model. Findings - The findings reveal that Islamic religiosity levels in general were insignificantly related to portfolio allocation, but that two dimensions of religiosity (virtue and obligation) significantly impact the allocations of risky assets in the portfolio. The higher the level of virtue, the lower the propensity to allocate risky assets into the portfolio. On the contrary, the higher the level of obligation, the higher the propensity to allocate risky assets in the portfolio. Meanwhile, individuals with higher risk tolerance, income and education levels show greater propensity to allocate risky assets in the portfolio. Research limitations/implications - The sample is restricted to Muslims in Kuala Lumpur; hence, the findings are not easily generalized to Muslim investors in general. Findings may differ between Muslims across the world, so future research needs to expand from a country specific to an international analysis. In addition, future studies could include other determinants of portfolio allocation, such as financial literacy. Practical implications - The findings of this study may assist financial planners and policymakers to better understand the drivers of portfolio allocation among their Muslim clients. Originality/value - While other studies have tended to focus on the impact of religiosity on the holdings of specific financial assets, such as Islamic bank accounts or Takaful, the present study explores the effect of Islamic religiosity dimensions on the allocations of risky assets in the portfolio. The study also develops an ordinal measure of portfolio allocation and makes a methodological contribution by using an ordered probit regression analysis.
Dynamic aphasia following low-grade glioma surgery near the supplementary motor area: A selective spontaneous speech deficit

We describe a patient (KO) with reduced spontaneous speech, resembling dynamic aphasia, after awake glioma surgery in the proximity of the supplementary motor area. Naming, repetition, and comprehension were intact. He was tested with an extensive neuropsychological test-battery and a protocol for dynamic aphasia at 1 year. He presented with postoperative reduced spontaneous speech and selective executive function deficits. Most language recovery took place at 3 months postoperatively, whereas the executive functions improved between 3 months and 1 year. Results suggest that resection near the supplementary motor area could increase the risk of cognitive disturbances at long term, especially language.
Role of molecular genetics in transforming diagnosis of diabetes mellitus

Most common diseases also run in families as rare, monogenic forms. Diabetes is no exception. Mutations in approximately 20 different genes are now known to cause monogenic diabetes, a disease group that can be subclassified into maturity-onset diabetes of the young, neonatal diabetes and mitochondrial diabetes. In some families, additional features, such as urogenital malformations, exocrine pancreatic dysfunction and neurological abnormalities, are present and may aid the diagnostic classification. The finding of a mutation in monogenic diabetes may have implications for the prediction of prognosis and choice of treatment. Mutations in the GCK gene cause a mild form of diabetes, which seldom needs insulin and has a low risk for complications. By contrast, HNF1A mutations lead to a diabetes form that in severity, treatment and complication risk resembles Type 1 diabetes, although these patients may experience a good effect of sulfonylurea treatment. The majority of neonatal diabetes cases are caused by mutations in the KATP channel genes ABCC8 and KCNJ11, and sulfonylurea therapy is then usually superior to insulin. Diseases with a considerable genetic component may now be explored by genome-wide approaches using next-generation DNA sequencing technology. We expect that within a few years important breakthroughs will be made in mapping cases of diabetes with a suspected, but still unsolved monogenic basis.