Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Application of the iPLEXTM Gold SNP genotyping method for the analysis of Amerindian ancient DNA samples: Benefits for ancient population studies

Important developments in the matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) technique have generated new perspectives regarding SNP genotyping, which are particularly promising for ancient population‐based studies. The main aim of the present study was to investigate the application of a MALDI‐TOF MS‐based SNP genotyping technique, called iPLEX® Gold, to analyze Amerindian ancient DNA samples. The first objective was to test the sensitivity of the method, which is recommended for DNA quantities between 10 and 5 ng, for ancient biological samples containing DNA molecules that were degraded and present in minute quantities. The second objective was to detail the advantages of this technique for studies on ancient populations. Two multiplexes were designed, allowing the major Amerindian mitochondrial and Y haplogroups to be determined simultaneously. This analysis has never been described before. Results demonstrated the reliability and accuracy of the method; data were obtained for both mitochondrial and nuclear DNA using picogram (pg) quantities of nucleic acid. This technique has the advantages of both MS and minisequencing techniques; thus, it should be included in the protocols for future ancient DNA studies.
[The effect of family-to-family support programs provided for families of schizophrenic patients on information about illness, family burden and self-efficacy].

OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to determine the effects of family-to-family support programs provided for the families of schizophrenic patients on the need for information about the illness, family burden and self-efficacy METHOD The study was carried out with 34 relatives who have key rolesin the lives of 34 outpatients who were diagnosed with schizophrenia under DSM-IV-TR. A volunteering family member was given training about the purpose, contents and planning of the program. Thefamily member who had been trainedthen extended this training to other family members with the assistance of the psychiatric nurse. The training was done once a week, for atotal of 12 sessions. The data were collected using a Disease Information Form (DIF), the Perceived Family Burden Scale (PFBS) and the Self-Efficacy Scale (SES). RESULTS There was a significant decrease in the PFBS objective scores (from 11.76±3.89 to 9.82±4.03, p=0.000), subjective scores (from 37.85±14.57 to 32.74±4.39, p=0.030) and total scores (from 49.62±18.25 to 42.56±7.56, p=0.005) and a significant increase in the SESS scores (from 82.65±12.01 to 97.79±7.17, p=0.000). Before training, 58.8% of family members correctly answered that schizophrenia is a brain disease, while 94.1% correctly stated that,it must be treated with medication;however, 55.9% of caregivers incorrectly believed in magical attributions relating to the disease.After training, all caregivers were able to answer correctly. CONCLUSION A family-to-family support program was found to be effective in reducing caregivers' need for information, reducing their burden, and increasing their self-efficacy in our country.
Ras and Rap1: two highly related small GTPases with distinct function.

The Ras-like family of small GTPases includes, among others, Ras, Rap1, R-ras, and Ral. The family is characterized by similarities in the effector domain. While the function of Ras is, at least in part, elucidated, little is known about other members of the family. Currently, much attention is focused on the small GTPase Rap1. Initially, this member was identified as a transformation suppressor protein able to revert the morphological phenotype of Ras-transformed fibroblasts. This has led to the hypothesis that Rap1 antagonizes Ras by interfering in Ras effector function. Recent analysis revealed that Rap1 is activated rapidly in response to activation of a variety of receptors. Rap1 activation is mediated by several second messengers, including calcium, diacylglycerol, and cAMP. Guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) have been identified that mediate these effects. The most interesting GEF is Epac, an exchange protein directly activated by cAMP, thus representing a novel cAMP-induced, protein kinase A-independent pathway. Furthermore, Rap1 is inactivated by specific GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs), one of which is regulated through an interaction with Galphai. While Ras and Rap1 may share some effector pathways, evidence is accumulating that Ras and Rap1 each regulate unique cellular processes in response to various extracellular ligands. For Rap1 these functions may include the control of cell morphology.
Correlation of P-wave dispersion with insulin sensitivity in obese adolescents

Abstract Background P-wave dispersion is a new and simple electrocardiographic marker that has been reported to be associated with inhomogeneous and discontinuous propagation of sinus impulses. In the present study, we evaluated P-wave dispersion in obese adolescents and investigated the relationship between P-wave dispersion, cardiovascular risk factors, and echocardiographic parameters. Methods We carried out a case–control study comparing 150 obese adolescents and 50 healthy controls. Maximum and minimum P-wave durations were measured using a 12-lead surface electrocardiogram, and P-wave dispersion was calculated as the difference between these two measures. Echocardiographic examination was also performed for each subject. Multivariate linear regression analysis with stepwise variable selection was used to evaluate parameters associated with increased P-wave dispersion in obese subjects. Results Maximum P-wave duration and P-wave dispersion were significantly higher in obese adolescents than control subjects (143±19 ms versus 117±20 ms and 49±15 ms versus 29±9 ms, p<0.0001 for both). P-wave dispersion was positively correlated with body mass index, waist and hip circumferences, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, total cholesterol, serum levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, and insulin, homoeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance score, left ventricular mass, and left atrial dimension. P-wave dispersion was negatively correlated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. By multiple stepwise regression analysis, left atrial dimension (β: 0.252, p=0.008) and homoeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (β: 0.205; p=0.009) were independently associated with increased P-wave dispersion in obese adolescents. Conclusions Insulin resistance is a significant, independent predictor of P-wave dispersion in obese adolescents.
Screening and treatment of latent tuberculosis infection among HIV-infected patients in resource-rich settings

ABSTRACT Current international guidelines recommend screening and treatment of latent tuberculosis (TB) infection in HIV-infected patients in all settings. The main factors affecting the risk of TB in HIV-infected patients include the level of immunosuppression, coverage of antiretroviral therapy and local TB burden. In resource-rich settings where antiretroviral therapy is more accessible and HIV-infected patients are expected to be diagnosed at an earlier stage, local TB burden remains a key factor on their risk of TB. This article reviewed the epidemiology of latent TB infection among the adult HIV-infected patients, and the use and benefit of screening and treatment of latent TB infection in resource-rich settings in the past decade. While such practice should be continued in countries with medium or high TB burden, targeted screening and treatment only for HIV-infected patients with additional risk factors for TB might be a more practical option in resource-rich countries with low TB burden.
A new STI-type FinFET device structure for high-performance applications

A new STI-type FinFET structure with its body region been connected is demonstrated and characterized by using three-dimensional (3-D) numerical simulations. From the simulation results, the STI-type FinFET shows that the short-channel effects (SCEs) and the off-state leakage current are proved to be reduced because the threshold voltage (VTH) roll-off and the drain-induced barrier lowering (DIBL) are well controlled. For same reason, this new device also exhibits a higher transconductance (GM) and its GD also maintains a good electrical performance with no kink effect compared with the conventional FinFET. With extra body region under the gate layer, the lattice temperature is decreased, and a good capability of alleviating the thermal instability is also obtained.
The Effectiveness of Compliance Techniques: Foot in the Door Versus Door in the Face

Under this heading are brief reports of studies providing data that sub-stantiate, disprove, or refine what we think we know. These Notes con-sist of a summary of the study’s procedure and as many details about theresults as space allows. Additional details concerning the results can beobtained by communicating directly with the author.
Gross Motor Development in Babies With Treated Idiopathic Clubfoot

Purpose: To investigate the effect of treated clubfoot disorder on gross motor skill level measured by the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS). Methods: Fifty-two babies participated: 26 were treated for idiopathic clubfoot (12 with the Ponseti treatment method, 9 with the French physical therapy technique, and 5 with a combination of both methods); 26 were babies who were typically developing and without medical diagnoses. The AIMS was administered at 3-month intervals. Results: No significant differences in AIMS scores were found between the clubfoot and control groups at 3 and 6 months, but at 9 and 12 months the clubfoot group scored significantly lower. Babies who were typically developing were significantly more likely to be walking at 12 months than babies with clubfoot. Conclusions: Treated clubfoot was associated with a mild delay in attainment of gross motor skills at 9 and 12 months of age.
Prospective Randomized Comparison of the Safety and Effectiveness of Placement of Endocardial Pacemaker and Defibrillator Leads Using the Extrathoracic Subclavian Vein Guided by Contrast Venography Versus the Cephalic Approach

CALKINS, H. , et al.: Prospective Randomized Comparison of the Safety and Effectiveness of Placement of Endocardial Pacemaker and Defibrillator Leads Using the Extrathoracic Subclavian Vein Guided by Contrast Venography Versus the Cephalic Approach. The purpose of this prospective randomized study was to compare the safety and efficacy of the cephalic approach versus a contrast‐guided extrathoracic approach for placement of endocardial leads. Despite an increased incidence of lead fracture, the intrathoracic subclavian approach remains the dominant approach for placement of pacemaker and implantable defibrillator leads. Although this complication can be prevented by lead placement in the cephalic vein or by lead placement in the extrathoracic subclavian or axillary vein, these approaches have not gained acceptance. A total of 200 patients were randomized to undergo placement of pacemaker or implantable defibrillator leads via the contrast‐guided extrathoracic subclavian vein approach or the cephalic approach. Lead placement was accomplished in 99 of the 100 patients randomized to the extrathoracic subclavian vein approach as compared to 64 of 100 patients using the cephalic approach. In addition to a higher initial success rate, the extrathoracic subclavian vein medial approach was determined to be preferable as evidenced by a shorter procedure time and less blood loss. There was no difference in the incidence of complications. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that lead placement in the extrathoracic subclavian vein guided by contrast venography is effective and safe. It was also associated with no increased risk of complications as compared with the cephalic approach. These findings suggest that the contrast‐guided approach to the extrathoracic portion of the subclavian vein should be considered as an alternative to the cephalic approach.
The Alpha and Omega and Lampstands Metaphors: A Linguistic Theory of Metaphor as Applied to the Book of Revelation

5 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS . 6 1 CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION . 9 1.1 Genre and Language Theory . 27 1.2 Genre of the Book of Revelation . 35 1.2.1 Epistle . 37 1.2. 2 Narrative . 43 1.2. 3 Prophecy . 46 1.2. 4 Apocalyptic . 54 1.2. 5 Apocalyptic Purpose . 62 1.3 Method . 67 1.4 Terminology . 74 1.4. 1 Imagery . 78 1.4. 2 Metaphor . 81 1.4. 3 Symbol . 97 1.4. 4 Analogy . 102 1.4. 5 Typology . 107 1.5 Types of Linguistic/Literary Metaphors . 109 1.5. 1 Verbs/Non-Copulative Sentences/Substantives . 113 1.5. 2 Copulative Sentences . 116 1.5. 3 Genitive Case Metaphors . 122 1.5. 4 Attributive Construction Metaphors . 123 1.5. 5 Prepositions . 124 1.5. 6 Associated Common Places . 125 1.6 Review of Literature . 131 1.7 Conclusion to Methodology and Literature Review . 145 2 CHAPTER TWO: A THEORY OF LINGUISTIC METAPHOR IN JOHN’S APOCALYPSE AS DEVELOPED FROM REVELATION 1 . 147 2.1 Revelation 1:8 – I am the Alpha and the Omega . 148 2.1.1 Overview of Interpretations of I AM the Alpha and Omega . 149 2.1.2 Alpha and Omega as Merism . 150 2.1.3 Alpha and Omega as Nomina Sacra . 152 2.1.4 Other Potential Sources of Alpha and Omega . 162
COMPARATIVE STOCHASTIC EFFECTS OF ALPHA, BETA OR X-IRRADIATION OF THE LUNG OF RATS

The stochastic effects in the lung of inhaled, insoluble particles of alpha- and beta-emitting particles and low-linear energy transfer (LET) thoracic irradiation were compared in rats using data from previously conducted studies. Male and female F344 rats were exposed briefly by nasal inhalation to relatively insoluble aerosols of 144CeO2 or 239PuO2 to achieve a range of four lung burdens. The mean lifetime beta doses to the lung were 3.6 ± 1.3 Gy, 6.8 ± 1.7 Gy, 12 ± 4.5 Gy, and 37 ± 5.9 Gy. The mean lifetime alpha doses to the lung were 0.06 ± 0.03 Gy, 0.95 ± 0.46 Gy, 3.7 ± 1.6 Gy, and 12 ± 2.4 Gy. Additional rats were exposed to fractionated thoracic doses of x rays given on 10 successive working days. The lifetime doses to the lung were 3.3 Gy, 5.7 Gy, 11 Gy, and 38 Gy. Appropriate sham controls were included in each group and all groups were observed for their life spans. Lung neoplasms were found after all exposures, with the incidence increasing with radiation dose. Rats exposed to 239PuO2 had the highest incidence, 94% in the group with a dose of 12 Gy. The incidence in the groups exposed to inhaled 144CeO2 or fractionated thoracic x-irradiation was not significantly different. The incidence of lung tumors in the 239PuO2 groups was 21 times higher than that of the groups exposed to the lower LET radiations. These results support a radiation-weighting factor of 20, as recommended by ICRP 60.
Etiopathogenetic role of hepatitis C virus in mixed cryoglobulinemia, chronic liver diseases and lymphomas.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been found in the majority of patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC) in studies conducted in different countries. In our series of 110 MC patients the frequency of HCV markers was significantly high (91%) compared with other rheumatic diseases (6.4%) and with healthy Italian controls (1.2%). Moreover, HCV RNA was detected in 81% of the peripheral lymphocytes from MC patients. Comparable percentages of HCV infection were detectable in other disorders, i.e. porphyria cutanea tarda (77%) and autoimmune hepatitis type 1 (77%). The HCV infection of peripheral lymphocytes suggests that this virus could be the triggering factor for the lymphoproliferation underlying MC. In a number of patients with MC the evolution from a benign lymphoproliferation to frank B-cell lymphoma was observed. In these subjects HCV RNA in the sera and in fresh and cultured peripheral lymphocytes was constantly detected. The same phenomenon has been observed in patients with long-lasting type C chronic hepatitis. Interestingly, HCV infection has also been recorded in 32% of idiopathic B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Taken together, the above findings suggest that HCV can cause benign B-cell proliferation with the consequent production of various autoantibodies, including rheumatoid factor and mixed cryoglobulins. These serological abnormalities characterise different clinical disorders, including the appearance of lymphoma in a not negligible number of individuals.
Study of Diagnostic Efficacy of the Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology of Lymphadenopathy as Compared to Open Biopsy for Histopathological Examination

Background: Lymphadenopathy is an abnormal increase in size and/ or altered consistency of lymph nodes. It is a very common clinical manifestation of regional or systemic disease caused by the invasion or propagation of either inflammatory cells or neoplastic cells into the node and serves as an excellent clue to the underlying disease. Objectives: The study was undertaken to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of the fine needle aspiration cytology of lymphadenopathy as compared to open biopsy for histopathological examination, to study the frequency of various neoplastic versus non-neoplastic lesions, their distribution in different age groups and to study the different cytomorphological patterns associated with various lymphadenopathies. Methods: A prospective study was conducted in 400 patients with lymphadenopathy referred to the Departmet of pathology, S.V. S Medical college & Hospital , Mahabubnagar. FNA diagnosis was subsequently correlated and compared with the biopsy diagnosis in the available cases. Results: Out of 400 patients of FNAC for lymphadenopathy excisional biopsy was available in only 85 cases. Non neoplastic & neoplastic lesions were seen in 308 cases & 64 cases respectively. 28 smears were non diagnostic. Tuberculous lymphadenitis was the most common lesion in 45.75% of the cases. The overall diagnostic accuracy of FNAC in the present study was 89.41. % with accuracy of 87.19 % for tuberculous lymphadenitis and 1000.00% for metastatic carcinoma. Cervical group of lymphnodes were the most commonly affected group of lymph nodes 59.75%. Epithelioid granulomas with necrosis was the predominant microscopic pattern seen in 55.19% cases Overall AFB positivity was seen in 31.14% cases & predominantly seen in necrosis alone pattern(79%), In our study sensitivity, specificity, Positive and negative predictive values of FNAC in lymphadenopathy were 100 %, 96.97%, 90.48% and 100 % respectively. Conclusion: FNAC is a simple,rapid,cost effective diagnostic tool for patients having significant lymphadenopathy. The metastatic carcinomas, and tuberculous lymphadenopathy can be diagnosed by FNAC with a high degree of accuracy. If FNAC is positive surgeon can proceed to treat the patient without excisional biopsy of the enlarged lymph nodes & most of the diseases are medically curable with limited role for surgery in non-neoplastic lesions. Lack of tissue architecture on FNAC can be overcome by subjecting samples to flow cytometry, T-cell, B-cell markers and immunocytochemistry analysis.
How Extrinsic Is the Coercivity in NdFeB Bonded Magnets?

The influence of the densification step, performed by uniaxial pressing at room temperature, on the coercivity μ<sub>0</sub>H<sub>c</sub> of NdFeB bonded magnets has been analyzed. The mass density does not play any role on μ<sub>0</sub>H<sub>c</sub> of non-cured magnets prepared by the mentioned method. Due to the brittle and intergranular character of the Nd<sub>2</sub>Fe<sub>14</sub>B-based phase fracture, the nano-sized grains are not affected or the modification is negligible, which maintains μ<sub>0</sub>H<sub>c</sub> unchanged. After curing, the intrinsic coercivity of the magnets is reduced as a function of the compaction pressure increase.
In vitro microbial metabolism of fumonisin B1

There is a lack of information on the effect of swine caecal microbiota on fumonisin metabolism. In this in vitro study, the biotransformation of fumonisin B1 (FB1) by the gut microbiota of adult, healthy pigs was examined. Suspensions of caecal contents and McDougall buffer solution were incubated anaerobically with pure FB1 for 0, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h. After 48 h, the conversion of FB1 to partially hydrolysed FB1 (46%) was nearly equal to the percentage ratio of FB1, while by 72 h it was 49%. In vitro, the conversion of fumonisin B1 to aminopentol was less than 1%. The results show that the caecal microbiota are capable of transforming fumonisin B1 to the above metabolites. Further studies on FB1 metabolism in the small intestine are clearly justified.
Muscle protein catabolism after severe burn: effects of IGF-1/IGFBP-3 treatment.

OBJECTIVE To determine the effects of recombinant human insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) complexed with its principal binding protein, IGFBP-3, on skeletal muscle metabolism in severely burned children. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA Severe burns are associated with a persistent hypermetabolic response characterized by hyperdynamic circulation and severe muscle catabolism and wasting. Previous studies showed that nutritional support and pharmacologic intervention with anabolic agents such as growth hormone and insulin abrogated muscle wasting and improved net protein synthesis in the severely burned. The use of these agents, however, has several adverse side effects. A new combination of IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 is now available for clinical study. METHODS Twenty-nine severely burned children were prospectively studied before and after treatment with 0.5, 1, 2, or 4 mg/kg/day IGF-1/IGFBP-3 to determine net balance of protein across the leg, muscle protein fractional synthetic rates, and glucose metabolism. Another group was studied in a similar fashion without IGF-1/IGFBP-3 treatment as time controls. RESULTS Seventeen of 29 children were catabolic before starting treatment. The infusion of 1.0 mg/kg/day IGF-1/IGFBP-3 increased serum IGF-1, which did not further increase with 2.0 and 4.0 mg/kg/day. IGF-1/IGFBP-3 treatment at 1 to 4 mg/ kg/day improved net protein balance and increased muscle protein fractional synthetic rates. This effect was more pronounced in catabolic children. IGF-1/IGFBP-3 did not affect glucose uptake across the leg or change substrate utilization. CONCLUSIONS IGF-1/IGFBP-3 at doses of 1 to 4 mg/kg/day attenuates catabolism in catabolic burned children with negligible clinical side effects.
Indomethacin prevents the development of experimental ammonia‐induced brain edema in rats after portacaval anastomosis

Patients with fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) die with brain edema, exhibiting an increased cerebral blood flow (CBF) at the time of cerebral swelling. Mild hypothermia prevents brain edema in experimental models and in humans with FHF, an effect associated with normalization of CBF. To study the effects of alterations of CBF on the development of brain edema, we administered intravenous (IV) indomethacin to rats receiving an ammonia infusion after portacaval anastomosis. This model predictably develops brain edema and a marked increase in CBF at 3 hours of infusion. Brain water was measured with the gravimetry technique; CBF was monitored with both laser Doppler flowmetry and radioactive microspheres, whereas intracranial pressure (ICP) was monitored with a cisterna magna catheter. Coadministration of indomethacin prevented the increase in CBF seen with ammonia alone (110 ± 19% vs. −2 ± 9%) as well as the increase in brain water (80.86 ± 0.12% vs. 80.18 ± 0.06%) and the increase in ICP. Plasma ammonia and brain glutamine levels were markedly elevated in the ammonia‐infused group and unaffected by indomethacin. However, ammonia uptake by the brain was significantly reduced by indomethacin. Levels of 6‐keto‐PGF1α, a stable metabolite of prostacyclin, were reduced in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of indomethacin‐treated animals. As with mild hypothermia, avoiding cerebral vasodilatation with indomethacin will prevent the development of brain edema in this hyperammonemic model. Cerebral vasoconstriction reduces cerebral ammonia uptake and, if selective to the brain, may be of benefit in FHF.