Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Intrauterine Pressure Wave Characteristics of the Upper and Lower Uterine Segments in Parturients With Active-Phase Arrest

Objective: To determine the gradient of pressure between the upper and the lower uterine segments of parturients with non-progressing labor and to see whether the gradient correlates with subsequent successful oxytocin augmentation. Methods: Fifteen women with active-phase arrest of labor were monitored with two intrauterine pressure transducers before and after oxytocin augmentation. Seven parturients without arrest of labor were evaluated for comparison. One intrauterine pressure transducer was inserted into the upper and one into the lower uterine segment of each subject. Overall, 444 contractions were assessed using the mean active pressure method. Results: A total of 16 patients delivered vaginally. Nine received oxytocin augmentation, and all had significantly higher pressure in the upper segment than in the lower both before and after oxytocin (P<.001). Six women delivered by cesarean had a reversed gradient of uterine activity, with the lower segment contracting significantly more strongly than the upper uterine segment both before (P=.002) and after oxytocin (P=.001). Conclusion: Pressure gradients between the upper and lower uterine segments in the active phase might predict the likelihood of success of oxytocin augmentation.
Integrating Patient and Informant Reports on the Cornell-Brown Quality-of-Life Scale

Patients with mild cognitive impairment and mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease can provide information about their quality of life. This study determined whether aggregating patient and informant quality-of-life reports on the Cornell-Brown Scale for Quality of Life in Dementia can provide a broader perspective on the quality of life relative to patient or informant reports separately. Aggregated Cornell-Brown Scale for Quality of Life in Dementia scores were hypothesized to correlate more strongly with both patient and informant perspectives of patient's memory, function, and neuropsychiatric symptoms than the unaggregated measures. Results indicated that aggregated Cornell-Brown Scale for Quality of Life in Dementia scores reflected a blend of patient and informant perspectives on patient function. This study contributes to a growing line of research that recommends integrating patient and informant perspectives to achieve the most complete assessment of quality of life.
Creativity support in games for motivated learning

A natural extension of play for creative thinking can innovatively drive technology-led changes to the facilitation of creative problem solving, and generate a new genre in serious gaming. Whilst the use of serious games has grown considerably in recent years, support for players to think creatively is often implicit in the game, and does not exploit the wide range of creativity techniques and software tools available. The work reported in this thesis is the first to explicitly integrate creativity support into serious games. The results show that creative serious games can systematically support acquisition of creativity skills, generation of creative learning outcomes, and induction of motivational and learning benefits amongst the players. Therefore, this thesis introduces the concept of explicit creativity support in serious games, with a focus on games for motivated learning in adult professional setting, and reports formative and summative evaluations of new prototype games for this setting, in order to instantiate, refine and validate the concept. The creative learning objective of the prototype games was to train carers in creativity techniques to deliver more person-centred care to people with dementia. The findings are delivered in the form of a new framework, which proposes recommendations for the design and understanding of creative serious games. Four formative evaluations of three prototypes of creative serious games with carers provided results that led to refinements of the framework and the design of more usable and effective games. A subsequent summative evaluation partially validated the framework, delivering both a framework and prototype creative serious game that demonstrated the potential to improve person-centred dementia care training. The thesis provides a proof-of-concept of the value of creative serious games, and shows the potential for the framework to be applied and have impact on other application domains.
OUTBREAK OF INFLUENZA A2 AMONG IMMUNIZED CHILDREN.

An outbreak of influenza A2 occurred in 1963 in a children's home five months after half the population had been given two injections of commercial polyvalent vaccine. About 90% of the children who had received the influenza vaccine before the outbreak had an antibody titer of 1:80 or higher against the 1962 strain of influenza A2. The frequency of clinical illnesses for immunized children was slightly but significantly less than for the nonimmunized children. The 1963 outbreak of influenza A2 had a lower infectivity rate, occurred over a longer period of time, and was associated with fewer severe illnesses than the outbreak of influenza B which occurred in the same home in 1962, when no child had received influenza vaccine.
Registered report: The CD47-signal regulated protein alpha (SIRPa) interaction is a therapeutic target for human solid tumors

The Reproducibility Project: Cancer Biology seeks to address growing concerns about reproducibility in scientific research by conducting replications of 50 papers in the field of cancer biology published between 2010 and 2012. This Registered report describes the proposed replication plan of key experiments from ‘The CD47-signal regulatory protein alpha (SIRPa) interaction is a therapeutic target for human solid tumors’ by Willingham et al., 2012, published in PNAS in 2012. The key experiments being replicated are those reported in Figure 6A–C and Table S4. In these experiments, Willingham et al., 2012 test the safety and efficacy of anti-CD47 antibody treatment in immune competent mice utilizing a syngeneic model of mammary tumor growth in FVB mice. The Reproducibility Project: Cancer Biology is a collaboration between the Center for Open Science and Science Exchange, and the results of the replications will be published in eLife. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.7554/eLife.04586. 001
Summarizing Single-Subject Research

In this article, literature concerning the quantitative synthesis (meta-analysis) of single-subject research literature is reviewed. First, the general rationale for such an approach is discussed. Next, procedures for synthesizing single-subject literature are described, followed by comments and critiques of those procedures. Finally, a review is presented of the results of applications of those procedures. The authors suggest that procedures based on percentage of nonoverlapping data (PND) between baseline and treatment are justifiable, meaningful, and-across nine applications have produced results that are highly meaningful and faithful to the original research reports.
The Relationship of Social Exclusion at Work With Self-Defeating Behavior and Turnover

ABSTRACT Although studies indicate that perceived social exclusion is positively related to self-defeating behavior (SDB) and turnover intentions, studies have not integrated this research to examine the potential links among perceived social exclusion at work, SDB, and actual turnover. Using multisource data obtained from 246 employees and their immediate supervisors, we obtained support for a theoretical model in which perceived social exclusion relates directly and positively to turnover intentions and turnover, and indirectly and positively to turnover via two SDBs and turnover intentions. We discuss the theoretical implications of the findings and directions for future research.
Oxygen saturation and breathing patterns in preterm infants with cyanotic episodes

The pathophysiology of cyanotic/apnoeic episodes in preterm infants was investigated using overnight tape recordings of beat‐to‐beat arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2), plethysmographic waveforms from the oximeter, breathing movements and nasal airflow. Recordings were made in 16 preterm infants with recurrent cyanotic episodes of unknown cause that had received stimulation or resuscitation, and 15 preterm controls, matched for birth weight, post‐conceptional and postnatal age. The recordings were analysed for baseline SaO2, the number of hypoxaemic episodes (SaO2≤80% for ≥ 4 s) and the breathing patterns associated with each episode. There was a significant difference in the total number of hypoxaemic episodes between patients and controls (520 versus 100;P < 0.01), but no difference was found for mean baseline SaO2 (98.6 versus 99.0%; p > 0.05). The mean duration of each hypoxaemic episode in the patients was 9.5 s compared with 5.8 s in the controls (P < 0.01). Although most hypoxaemic episodes (62 and 76%) were associated with pauses in breathing movements, a proportion (8 and 18%, respectively) occurred despite continuous airflow and breathing movements in both patients (6 of 16) and preterm controls (2 of 15). The rate of decrease in SaO2 was significantly more rapid during these latter hypoxaemic episodes than during episodes associated with isolated apnoeic pauses (8.5 versus 3.2% per second, p= 0.02). Preterm infants with cyanotic episodes have increased numbers of clinically unapparent hypoxaemic episodes, some of which have continued ventilation and rapid desaturation. The pathogenesis of these episodes warrants further investigation.
On the generalization end comparison of two recent frequency-domain stability robustness results

In this paper we present the generalization of two recent frequency-domain methods for evaluating robust stability of uncertain systems to the complex polynomial case. Both methods are based on Mikhailov criteria and have been established recently for real continuous-time systems. Besides generalization to the complex case, we relate these two methods for both real and complex cases, make an objective comparison between them, and include some illustrative examples.
Development of Evaluation Techniques for Air Lines in 3.5- and 1.0-mm Line Sizes

This paper summarizes the calibration of precision coaxial air lines in a 3.5-mm line size. The standard system of the National Metrology Institute of Japan (NMIJ) is used to accurately obtain mechanical measurements of the diameters and lengths of lines. Length compression of approximately 6.0 mum and diameter distortions caused by connections with specified torques have been observed in 3.5-mm air lines. A small insertion loss in the millimeter-wave frequency range has also been detected. Furthermore, NMIJ has established standards for scattering parameters in the frequency range up to 110 GHz for coaxial air lines in the 1.0-mm line size by the enhancement of mechanical measurement systems.
Measures of farm business efficiency

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to investigate technical, scale, allocative and economic efficiencies by data envelopment analysis (DEA) and stochastic frontier methods to provide a decision‐making tool and managerial implications in the measurement of farm business performance and efficiency.Design/methodology/approach – Technical, scale, allocative and economic efficiencies are analyzed with the Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN) sample for 13 farm business branches in Slovenia in the period 1994‐2003. DEA models are used with an output‐orientation, three outputs and four inputs. The non‐parametric DEA estimations are compared with a parametric stochastic frontier approach. The cluster analysis is used to identify three different farm business groups according to their performance.Findings – The average technical, scale, allocative and economic efficiencies for the whole FADN sample over the analyzed period are relatively high (around or over 0.90), suggesting that, although the FADN sample contain.
Science‐Policy‐Practice Interfaces: Emergent knowledge and monarch butterfly conservation

We study how knowledge is produced at the intersection of science, environmental policy and public engagement. Based on analysis of monarch butterfly conservation, we critically evaluate models of knowledge production. The monarch butterfly and its migration have engaged science and enchanted people for over a century, and current threats to monarchs catalyze debates and actions. This paper traces the historical development of knowledge regarding (i) long-term monarch population trends, (ii) the monarch's dependence on a particular food plant, the milk-weed, and (iii) the monarch as a pollinator. Our analysis indicates that knowledge production and science–policy–practice interfaces cannot be satisfactorily understood through reference to the classical linear model and more recent conceptions of relationally produced knowledge (i.e. co-production). We identify powerful and sometimes contradictory knowledge claims that emerge from unmediated interactions among scientists, advocates, policy makers and diverse publics. The emergent model complements existing models of knowledge production, thereby expanding the conceptual foundation available for making sense of science–policy–practice interfaces. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Quality of experience estimation with layered mapping for hypertext transfer protocol video streaming over wireless networks

Hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) video streaming has occupied more than half of mobile Internet traffic today. Quality of experience (QoE) estimation for HTTP video streaming is significantly meaningful for network operators, as they can utilize valuable network resources more efficiently based on the QoE estimated. But, it is very hard to estimate QoE accurately with theoretical methods. In this paper, we adopt three buffering‐related application metrics, which have been verified to be the main factors that influence the QoE of HTTP videos, together with three fundamental quality of service (QoS) metrics in network layer, to estimate QoE. We suggest a two‐layered mapping model to capture the correlation between network QoS and application QoS and that between application QoS and QoE. Then, we exploit four regression methods, that is, linear regression, back propagation neural network, general regression neural network and support vector regression (SVR), to investigate the mapping relations of the network metrics, the application buffering‐related metrics and QoE. Experimental results demonstrate that general regression neural network and SVR perform almost equally well in fitting ability, and SVR performs best among the four methods in terms of generalization ability. Finally, we analyze the influences of different network QoS parameters on QoE based on the experimental results. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Probability-One Homotopy for Robust Initialization of Differential-Algebraic Equations

An evolution of the recently introduced operator homotopy() is proposed, which further improves the solution of difficult initialization problems. The background and motivation for this approach are discussed and it is demonstrated how to apply it for electrical and fluid systems. The key difference to the earlier approach is the supporting theory, which guarantees that the method converges globally with probability one.
Blood vitamin C, vitamin A, β-carotene, ceruloplasmin, glutathione and malondial-dehyde concentrations in cows with sub-clinical mastitis treated with intramammary antibiotics

Le statut anti-oxydant (concentrations sanguines en glutathion, vitamines C et A, β-carotene et ceruloplasmine) ainsi que la survenue d'un stress oxydatif (concentrations plasmatiques de malonedialdehyde) ont ete evalues ches des vaches Frisonnes x Holstein atteintes de mammites subcliniques (n = 24), l'infection mammaire etant confirmee par un test CMT et une analyse bacteriologique du lait. Selon l'efficacite de l'antibiotherapie intramammaire (200 mg Cephalexin and 100 000 IU Kanamycine), les vaches ont ete reparties en 2 groupes: celui des "gueries" (lorsque les tests CMT et les analyses bacteriologiques ont ete negatifs a J14 et J21 apres le traitement) et celui des "non gueries" (l'infection a ete encore detectee a J14 et/ou J21). Les concentrations plasmatiques de MDA et le statut sanguin en antioxydants ont ete evalues a J14 et J21 apres le traitement et compares aux valeurs obtenues chez des vaches saines (n = 13). Les concentrations sanguines en vitamin C et en glutathion ont ete significativement plus elevees chez les controles et les animaux gueris que chez les vaches non gueries. La concentration moyenne en vitamine A a augmente significativement a l'issue du traitement chez les vaches gueries, cependant la meme tendance a egalement ete observee chez les controles. Aucune variation significative des concentrations en MDA, β-carotene et en ceruloplasmine n'a ete decelee entre les groupes ou entre les differents temps de prelevement. En conclusion, la capacite anti-oxydante du plasma est significativement alteree lors de mammite sub-clinique chez la vache et un traitement local efficace permet de restaurer au moins partiellement le statut anti-oxydant.
Software defect prediction using neural networks

Defect severity assessment is the most crucial step in large industries and organizations where the complexity of the software is increasing at an exponential rate. Assigning the correct severity level to the defects encountered in large and complex software, would help the software practitioners to allocate their resources and plan for subsequent defect fixing activities. In order to accomplish this, we have developed a model based on text mining techniques that will be used to assign the severity level to each defect report based on the classification of existing reports done using the machine learning method namely, Radial Basis Function of neural network. The proposed model is validated using an open source NASA dataset available in the PITS database. Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) analysis is done to interpret the results obtained from model prediction by using the value of Area Under the Curve (AUC), sensitivity and a suitable threshold criterion known as the cut-off point. It is evident from the results that the model has performed very well in predicting high severity defects than in predicting the defects of the other severity levels. This observation is irrespective of the number of words taken into consideration as independent variables.
Amino Acid Substitutions at Position 95 in GyrA Can Add Fluoroquinolone Resistance to Mycobacterium leprae

ABSTRACT Amino acid substitutions at position 89 or 91 in GyrA of fluoroquinolone-resistant Mycobacterium leprae clinical isolates have been reported. In contrast, those at position 94 in M. tuberculosis, equivalent to position 95 in M. leprae, have been identified most frequently. To verify the possible contribution of amino acid substitutions at position 95 in M. leprae to fluoroquinolone resistance, we conducted an in vitro assay using wild-type and mutant recombinant DNA gyrases. Fluoroquinolone-mediated supercoiling activity inhibition assay and DNA cleavage assay revealed the potent contribution of an amino acid substitution of Asp to Gly or Asn at position 95 to fluoroquinolone resistance. These results suggested the possible future emergence of quinolone-resistant M. leprae isolates with these amino acid substitutions and the usefulness of detecting these mutations for the rapid identification of fluoroquinolone resistance in leprosy.
Accuracy of weight and height estimation in an intensive care unit: Implications for clinical practice and research*

Objective:Numerous calculations routinely used in the intensive care require the knowledge of patients’ weight and height, although these measurements are not always made. Estimates by doctors or nurses are often substituted. This study sought to ascertain the accuracy of estimates of weight and height of patients made by intensive care unit (ICU) staff. Design:Prospective clinical study. Setting:Sixteen-bed mixed medical and surgical ICU in a university teaching hospital. Patients:Fourteen patients had their height and weight estimated by 20 members of the medical and nursing staff. Measurements:After all estimates had been recorded, measurements of weight and height were obtained. Weight was measured by means of a patient hoist with a calibrated weighing facility and height using a steel tape measure. Main Results:Estimation of weight was poor, with 47% of estimates at least 10% different and 19% of estimates at least 20% different from the measured values. The majority of height estimates were within 10% of the measured values. Conclusions:Individual estimates of weight and height are frequently inaccurate. These errors of estimation could compromise application of effective therapies, as well as contribute to a reduction in design sensitivity of clinical trials.
The adoption of PDA for future healthcare system: an emerging market perspective

The idea of using personal digital assistance (PDA) in the healthcare industry has been sparsely explored from the viewpoint of an emerging market like Malaysia. Since the potential benefits of adopting PDA are immense, this study aims to investigate the intention of medical professionals to adopt PDA in their daily work. Interestingly, only personal innovativeness in technology (PIIT) was found to be insignificant in this study. The study is important, as it provides vital information not only for hospital management but also for system developers and even government agencies when devising their corporate and marketing strategies.
Drug survival rates in patients with psoriasis after treatment with biologics

Clinically, patients' adherence to biologic treatment is not only related to efficacy but also to adverse events, cost and other factors. To evaluate long‐term viability of biologic treatment, both the percentage of and reasons for discontinuation of treatment were investigated. In this study, patients treated with infliximab (n = 38), adalimumab (n = 59) and ustekinumab (n = 30) were included and observed for 12 months. Clinical efficacy was evaluated using a 75% reduction of Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score (PASI‐75), and patients who discontinued treatment were considered as not having achieved PASI‐75. In addition, drug survival rate (DSR) was investigated. In patients treated with infliximab, PASI‐75 was 68.4% and DSR was 73.3% by the end of treatment. In patients treated with adalimumab, PASI‐75 was 50.8% and DSR was 79.7%. In patients treated with ustekinumab, PASI‐75 was 63.3% and DSR was 96.7%. Several patients discontinued treatment because of insufficient efficacy due to secondary failure in infliximab or primary failure in adalimumab. To increase treatment efficacy, it will be necessary for these patients to use an additional concomitant treatment. Higher efficacy is expected with biologics than with conventional treatments; however, the actual clinical efficacy over a long period of time may be insufficient if they are used without any concomitant treatments.
Self‐similar solution of the second kind for a convergent viscous gravity current

The axisymmetric flow of a very viscous fluid toward a central orifice is studied. In a recent paper, a self‐similar solution for this problem has been found. The self‐similarity is of the second kind and hence the flow remembers its initial condition only through a nondimensional constant which characterizes it. In this work this convergent flow is studied experimentally (using silicone oils) by measuring the front position and the height profile as a function of time. It is verified that the self‐similar solution properly describes the flow within a certain interval of the cavity radius, where values are obtained for the similarity exponent δ in agreement (accounting for experimental errors) with the theoretical value 0.762. The transition to the self‐similar flow is also simulated numerically and numerical values are obtained for the time closure for different initial conditions. These simulations also show the theoretical self‐similar flow after the cavity closure, which is very difficult to obser.