Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Short-term Preoperative Octreotide for Thyrotropin-secreting Pituitary Adenoma

Background: Thyrotropin-secreting pituitary adenomas (TSHomas) are a rare cause of hyperthyroidism. Somatostatin (SST) analogs work by interacting with somatostatin receptors (SSTRs). This study aimed to evaluate short-term preoperative octreotide (OCT) use in TSHoma patients and to investigate SSTR2 and SSTR5 expression and observe structural changes in tumor tissue. Methods: We reviewed records and samples from eight TSHoma patients treated between July 2012 and July 2015. We tested immunohistochemically for SSTR2/5 expression and examined TSHoma cells for morphological changes. Signed rank sum test was used to compare the efficacy of short-term preoperative OCT treatment. Results: OCT treatment (median time: 7.9 days, range: 3–16 days; median total dose: 1.8 mg, range: 0.9–4.2 mg) led to significant decrease in all patients’ thyroid hormone levels (FT3 [nmol/L]: 8.33 [7.02, 12.29] to 4.67 [3.52, 5.37] [P = 0.008]; FT4 [pmol/L]: 25.36 [21.34, 28.99] to 16.66 [14.88, 21.49] [P = 0.016]; and TSH [&mgr;U/ml]: 5.80 [4.37, 6.78] to 0.57 [0.19, 1.24] [P = 0.008]). All the eight tumor specimens expressed high SSTR2 protein levels; 5/8 expressed high SSTR5, but 3/8 that expressed low SSTR5 presented a significantly higher TSH suppression rate (P = 0.036). Electron microscopy showed subcellular level impairments, including clumped nuclear chromatin and reduced cytoplasmic volume. Golgi complexes were observed in the OCT-treated TSHoma specimens. Conclusions: OCT can control hormone levels and damage the ultrastructure of tumor cells and organelles. Short-term response to OCT may be related to SSTR5 expression. Preoperative SST analog treatment for TSHoma could be considered as a combination therapy.
Trabectedin Overrides Osteosarcoma Differentiative Block and Reprograms the Tumor Immune Environment Enabling Effective Combination with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

Purpose: Osteosarcoma, the most common primary bone tumor, is characterized by an aggressive behavior with high tendency to develop lung metastases as well as by multiple genetic aberrations that have hindered the development of targeted therapies. New therapeutic approaches are urgently needed; however, novel combinations with immunotherapies and checkpoint inhibitors require suitable preclinical models with intact immune systems to be properly tested. Experimental Design: We have developed immunocompetent osteosarcoma models that grow orthotopically in the bone and spontaneously metastasize to the lungs, mimicking human osteosarcoma. These models have been used to test the efficacy of trabectedin, a chemotherapeutic drug utilized clinically for sarcomas and ovarian cancer. Results: Trabectedin, as monotherapy, significantly inhibited osteosarcoma primary tumor growth and lung metastases by both targeting neoplastic cells and reprogramming the tumor immune microenvironment. Specifically, trabectedin induced a striking differentiation of tumor cells by favoring the recruitment of Runx2, the master genetic regulator of osteoblastogenesis, on the promoter of genes involved in the physiologic process of terminal osteoblast differentiation. Differentiated neoplastic cells, as expected, showed reduced proliferation rate. Concomitantly, trabectedin enhanced the number of tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes, with local CD8 T cells, however, likely post-activated or exhausted, as suggested by their high expression of the inhibitory checkpoint molecule PD-1. Accordingly, the combination with a PD-1–blocking antibody significantly increased trabectedin efficacy in controlling osteosarcoma progression. Conclusions: These results demonstrate the therapeutic efficacy of trabectedin in osteosarcoma treatment, unveiling its multiple activities and providing a solid rationale for its combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Clin Cancer Res; 23(17); 5149–61. ©2017 AACR.
Potentiation of antiproliferative effects of tamoxifen and ethanol on mouse hepatoma cells by melatonin: possible involvement of mitogen‐activated protein kinase and induction of apoptosis

Melatonin, the major secretory product of the pineal gland, is in focus of many research areas because of its ability to scavenge free oxygen radicals and thereby protect cells and tissues from radical damage. Some studies suggest melatonin may be a possible therapeutic agent with potential clinical applications against pathological states due to reactive oxygen species. Here, we investigated the effects of melatonin on the mouse hepatoma cell line HEPA 1–6, coincubated with ethanol, and tamoxifen, respectively. Cell proliferation rates were detected by the 3‐[4,5 dimethylthiazol‐2‐y1]‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) proliferation assay. A dose‐dependent inhibition of the proliferative activity by melatonin was observed from 640 μM to 3 mM, which was significantly higher (P < 0.01) than with the solvent (ethanol) alone. Concentrations of 320 μM and less had no effect on cell proliferation. This antiproliferative effect might be because of the prolonged activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase which was activated by phosphorylation 15 min after the induction with melatonin. Furthermore, apoptosis was found to be enhanced by melatonin (75% more than with the solvent alone, P < 0.001). Finally, we show that the inhibitory effect of tamoxifen (25 μM) is markedly enhanced by the coincubation with melatonin (1.3 mM) up to 75% (P < 0.001). These data show that the antiproliferative effects of tamoxifen and ethanol, respectively, on mouse hepatoma cell line HEPA 1–6 are enhanced by melatonin. Although at the conditions described here the antiproliferative effects of melatonin occur at supraphysiological concentrations, these data may help to support clinical studies where melatonin is given simultaneously with tamoxifen or other standard chemotherapeutica.
A comparison of risk factors for recurrent TIA and stroke in patients diagnosed with TIA

To the Editor: We congratulate Johnston et al. on their study of risk factors for recurrent cerebral ischemic events in patients presenting with transient ischemic attack (TIA). 1 The authors focus on a distinct subgroup of patients with isolated sensory symptoms with a high risk of recurrent TIA (40%), not progressing to stroke. However, the syndrome of recurrent pure sensory episodes has been documented.2,3 C. Miller Fisher pioneered its description (the authors cite Fisher’s paper on late life migraine accompaniments, but not on this entity). In a series of 135 cases, Fisher found that isolated unilateral sensory disturbance presented in two distinct and equally frequent manners: (1) sudden onset of pure sensory stroke preceded by no or few TIAs; and (2) frequent transient, unilateral hypoesthesia or paresthesias not progressing to permanent deficit.2 The syndrome of recurrent pure sensory episodes has been associated with ventroposterolateral infarcts on imaging and autopsy.2,3 Its pathogenesis is speculative, but it is likely that a substantial proportion of cases are attributable to waxing/waning poststroke paresthesias as a variant manifestation of poststroke pain, and others to recurrent ischemia beyond a fixed stenosis in a penetrating vessel, migrainous phenomena, hyperventilation paresthesias, and simple partial seizures. Approximately three to five patients a year are referred to our stroke center for sensory spells that recur despite multiple combinations of antithrombotics and anticonvulsants. Making the diagnosis spares patients from repeated invasive imaging, treatment with aggressive combination antithrombotic regimens likely to produce bleeding complications, and undue worry when episodes recur.
Participation in fraudulent elections

I analyze a costly voting model of elections in which the incumbent can stuff the ballot box to investigate how electoral fraud affects the decisions of voters to participate. I find that two stable equilibria may exist: an abstention equilibrium, where none of the voters vote and the incumbent always wins, and a more efficient coordination equilibrium, where a substantial share of a challenger’s supporters vote and the candidate preferred by the majority is likely to win. I further show that because the higher capability of the incumbent to stuff a ballot box discourages the participation of his own supporters and creates participation incentives for the challenger’s supporters, higher fraud does not always benefit the incumbent, even when costless. The model may help to explain two empirical observations related to fraudulent elections: a positive relationship between fraud and the margin of victory and a negative relationship between fraud and voter turnout.
Stakeholders’ Perceptions of Participation in Science Expos: A South African Case Study

Science Expos are intended to develop and empower learners to identify local problems and hence find solutions thereof using scientific processes. Science Expos are perceived as spaces for sharing experiences of science which engender love for science so that learners may ultimately pursue science-related careers. Despite these ideals, there is still poor participation in Science Expos by teachers and learners alike, especially from historically disadvantaged schools in South Africa. A qualitative case study underpinned by a community of practice theory was conducted in four disadvantaged schools in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The purpose of the study was to understand stakeholders’ perceptions of participation in Science Expos. The data were generated using individual semi-structured interviews with two Expo organisers, three teachers and five learners from disadvantaged schools. Additionally, two focus group interviews were conducted with learners. The data were analysed inductively. The findings of the study revealed that following their participation in the Science Expo, learners were more motivated to study science at school. Although teachers with Science Expo experience encouraged their learners to participate, the support provided by several other teachers was seen as inadequate. It emerged that there were some challenges encountered such as lack of resources and travel opportunities.
64 Multidetector-Row Computed Tomography for Preoperative Evaluation of Gastric Cancer: Histological Correlation

Objective: To assess the accuracy of 64 multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT) in the diagnosis and staging of gastric cancer. Methods: This study was approved by the institutional review board, and the patients involved gave informed consent. Forty-four patients (34 men and 10 women; mean age, 57 years) with gastric carcinoma underwent preoperative 64 MDCT (SOMATOM Sensation 64; Siemens Medical System, Forchheim, Germany; slice collimation, 0.6 mm; slice width, 5 mm; feed/rotation, 23 mm; pitch factor, 1.2; kernel, B30f; and gantry speed, 0.5 second per rotation). Gastric distension was achieved by ingestion of 8 g of effervescent granules. Scanning was performed during arterial and portal phases, as determined with bolus tracking and automated triggering technique after intravenous administration of 100 mL of contrast materials (4 mL/s). All computed tomography scans were retrospectively reviewed by 2 radiologists. Each tumor was staged according to the TNM classification system. All patients underwent surgery. Computed tomography results were compared with histological staging of tumor invasion depth and regional lymph node metastasis. Results: The accuracy of 64 MDCT for detection of gastric cancer was 90% (18/20) and 100% (24/24) in early and advanced gastric cancer, respectively, with an overall detection rate of 95% (42/44). Its accuracy for determination of tumor penetration depth was 89% (16/18) and 88% (21/24) in early and advanced gastric cancer, respectively, with an overall accuracy of 88% (37/42). Its accuracy for determination of lymph node metastasis was 90% (18/20) and 71% (17/24) in early and advanced gastric cancer, respectively, with an overall accuracy of 80% (35/44). Conclusions: The 64 MDCT is a promising technique for the detection and preoperative staging of gastric cancer.
Conceptualization and Pilot Testing of a Core Competency-Based Training Workshop in Suicide Risk Assessment and Management: Notes From the Field.

OBJECTIVES As professional psychology training programs and continuing education have moved toward competency based approaches, it has become equally important to develop uniform, evidence-based approaches for suicide risk assessment and management. The present article presents a workshop curriculum based on established core competencies in suicide risk assessment and management. METHOD Drawing on theories suicide risk formation, the workshop features an integration of didactic, process, and experiential components. We present pilot data from 2 small group workshops (n = 17): 1 from a clinical psychology doctoral program and 1 from a university counseling center. RESULTS Workshop participation yielded increases in (a) the ability to recognize appropriate clinician responses to suicidal client statements, (b) self-perceptions of general capacity to interface with suicidal patients and mastery of the 10 core competencies, (c) factual knowledge concerning suicide risk assessment and management, and (d) the self-rated ability to assess and manage a suicidal patient. CONCLUSION We discuss statistical and generalizability limitations as well as implications for future modification, implementation, and provision of this training method.
Asserting causal properties in High Level Synthesis

ICs are subject to many causes of malfunction such as aging or aggressive environment, while avoiding unwanted behavior of critical applications is a key issue. Monitoring is a cornerstone of safety policies, as it supports triggering counter measures on demand. High Level Synthesis (HLS) allows to easily implement applications in hardware, and some HLS compliant solutions have been reported. These solutions monitor applications through asserting properties to variables. This paper extends this approach by proposing causal assertions, dedicated to monitoring the evolution of variables over time. Results demonstrate significant gains in term of reactivity and error coverage rate, while keeping the overhead low.
Biological responses of the bovine teat to milking: information from measurements of milk flow-rate within single pulsation cycles

Summary The mass flow-rate (FR) of milk from the bovine teat within individual pulsation cycles was measured by continuous computation of the average optical density of the milk–air mixture within a teatcup. Measurements during milking were made on both live and excised teats using a range of teatcup liners, vacuum levels and pulsation characteristics. During a typical pulsation cycle, soon after the start of milking, milk FR from live teats reached a peak within 100 ms of the start of the flow period and fell to about 60% of the maximum value between 0·5 and 1·5 s of flow. If the liner was held open for longer than 1·5 s, the FR typically declined a further 10% over the next 10–15 s. After 10–15 s little or no further change occurred in milk FR at normal milking vacuum levels. Milk flow from excised teats reached a steady value within 100 ms of the start of the flow period and showed no subsequent fall in FR. Within individual pulsation cycles the changes in FR from live teats are affected by: (i) the degree of compressive load applied by the collapsed liner to the teat in the preceding cycle; and (ii) the duration of application of the compressive load. Increasing the degree of compressive load or the length of time of loading increases the peak milk FR of the next cycle by reducing the degree of congestion in the tissues of the teat surrounding the teat canal. Muscular effects are of secondary importance. The relatively small changes in milk FR associated with muscle contractions of the teat can be seen most clearly at low milking vacuum levels (below about 30 kPa) or with an unsupported teat (e.g. using a very distensible, thin-walled liner).
The Impact of 2007/08 Financial Crisis on the Stability and Enlargement of the EMU

Before 2007/08, the European Monetary Union (EMU) was expected to be enlarged on schedule, but the European sovereign debt problem, triggered by the exogenous US sub‐prime crisis, not only has revealed the EMU's fiscal coordination failure, but also has weakened regional financial integration. The stagnation of financial integration will therefore increase the cost of sustaining a monetary union, which in turn slows EMU enlargement and ruins the reputation of the euro. This paper aims to measure the damage to financial integration and to provide a more precise answer on real interest rate parity (RIP) convergence. Our estimation indicates that RIP between the EMU and some accession candidates is still valid after the interruptions of the financial crises. However, convergence of real interest rates cannot be achieved until 2030. This implies the EMU authority must strengthen regional financial integration to solidify the EMU and then be able to re‐start enlargement.
Expression of S100 family proteins in neonatal rats with sepsis and its significance.

OBJECTIVE This study aims to study the expression changes of S100 family proteins in neonatal rats with sepsis and investigate the effect and significance of S100 family proteins in pathogenesis and development of sepsis. METHODS The functions of S100 family proteins were analyzed with bioinformatics. The immune-associated proteins were chosen as the candidate proteins. Twenty neonatal SPF SD rats were randomly divided into two groups: sepsis model group and control group. The liver sample was stained with HE to evaluate the establishment of sepsis model. The expression amount of proinflammatory factor IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α was detected with ELISA. The expression changes of S100A8, S100A9, S100A11 and S100A12 in sepsis model rats were detected with real-time PCR and Western blotting. After shRNA plasmid was transfected into THP-1 cells and the expression of S100A12 was silenced, the expression changes of proinflammatory factor IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α in LPS-induced inflammation were studied in order to investigate the S100A12 mediated inflammatory process. RESULTS IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α in the serum of rats with sepsis induced by LPS were 55.79 ± 3.80 ng/l, 48.76 ± 1.03 ng/l and 29.98 ± 2.27 ng/l respectively. S100A8, S100A9, S100A11 and S100A12 detected with real-time PCR in sepsis model group were 14.4 ± 1.37, 10.23 ± 1.81, 5.5 ± 1.64 and 9.97 ± 1.82 respectively. Compared with the control group, S100A8, S100A9, and S100A12 were significantly up-regulated. The shRNA silenced the expression of S100A12 which reduced the expression of proinflammatory factors after LPS stimulated the cells (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Compared with the control group, S100A8, S100A9, and S100A12 were significantly up-regulated in rat sepsis model group. After the expression of S100A12 in propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate (PMA) induced human macrophages was silenced, the expression of proinflammatory factor IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α was down-regulated.
Dynamic Sonography of External Snapping Hip Syndrome

Objective. To evaluate the dynamic sonographic findings of external snapping hip syndrome. Methods. Five patients with 7 cases of painful external snapping hip (3 male and 2 female; age range, 14–32 years; mean, 19 years) were examined with sonography. Two patients had bilateral snapping. Dynamic sonographic examinations of hips were performed with a linear 5‐ to 12‐MHz transducer during hip motion. Results. Dynamic sonographic studies of the affected hip revealed causes of the external snapping hip in all cases. It was elicited by an abnormal jerky movement of the iliotibial band overlying the greater trochanter in 5 of 7 cases and of the gluteus maximus muscle in 2 cases. The iliotibial band over the greater trochanter was hypoechoic in 3 of the 5 cases and thickened in 1 case. Dynamic sonography showed good correlations between the jerky movements of the iliotibial band and the gluteus maximus muscle and the painful snapping reported by the patients. Conclusions. Dynamic sonography was helpful in the diagnosis of external snapping hip syndrome; it showed real‐time images of sudden abnormal displacement of the iliotibial band or the gluteus maximus muscle overlying the greater trochanter as a painful snap during hip motion.
Genetic Susceptibility of Myocardial Infarction

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the influence of genetic factors on the first episode of acute myocardial infarction. Probandwise concordances, tetrachoric correlations and quantitative genetic analyses of liability were applied to data drawn from the Swedish Twin Registry and the Swedish Acute Myocardial Infarction Register. All same-sexed twin pairs born between 1886 and 1958 who were alive in 1987 were included in the analyses. Our results show that concordance rates for acute myocardial infarction in monozygotic (MZ) twins were similar across sexes (among males .26 and females .27). For dizygotic (DZ) twins the concordances were . 20 for males and . 16 for females, yielding a greater MZ–DZ concordance differential for females than males. Tetrachoric correlations were greater for MZ than DZ twins for both sexes (.49 for male MZ and .34 for male DZ-twins and .56 and .35 for female MZ and DZ twins respectively). Quantitative genetic analyses of liability resulted in equal variance components for males and females (.36) but significantly different thresholds (prevalences). In conclusion, liability to first occurrence of acute myocardial infarction is moderately influenced by genetic variants in both sexes. The familial influence on phenotypic variance is exclusively explained by additive genetic factors.
Changes in Neuropsychological Functioning during Alcohol Detoxification

This study investigates changes in neuropsychological functioning during early abstinence from alcohol. 30 alcohol-dependent inpatients were tested at intake (day 4 of admission) and post detoxification (day 26), using a test-retest design. The neuropsychological battery included measures of pre-morbid IQ, full-scale IQ, verbal and non-verbal measures of memory and executive function. IQ was within the normal range at intake and comparable with age-adjusted normative values and there were some impairments in memory and executive function. There were significant increases in performance scores post detoxification in working memory, verbal fluency and verbal inhibition but not in non-verbal executive function tasks (mental flexibility and planning ability). Despite increased scores on tests of verbal and memory skills after 3 weeks of abstinence, complex executive abilities showed little change. These may have a negative impact on engagement and response to treatment and compromise clinical outcomes, heightening the risk of relapse.