Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
COPD_A_263745 3093..3103

1Observational and Pragmatic Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore; 2Centre of Academic Primary Care, Division of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK; 3Optimum Patient Care, Cambridge, UK; 4Peterhead Health Centre, Aberdeen, UK; 5Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy; 6University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; 7University of Manchester, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK; 8Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, Exeter, UK; 9UCL Respiratory, University College London, London, UK; 10Chiesi Limited, Manchester, UK; 11General Practitioners Research Institute, Groningen, the Netherlands; 12University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, GRIAC Research Institute, Groningen, the Netherlands Introduction: The Fostair® 100/6 (BDP/FF) pressurized metered-dose inhaler, delivering an extrafine formulation, is licensed for asthma and COPD in the UK. However, its real-life effectiveness for COPD has not been evaluated. This study compared the clinical effectiveness of BDP/FF against other licensed ICS/LABA combination inhalers: the Seretide® Accuhaler® (FP/SAL) and the Symbicort® Turbohaler® (BUD/FF). Methods: A matched historical cohort study was conducted using records of patients with diagnostic codes for COPD from the Optimum Patient Care Research Database (OPCRD). Patients who had received BDP/FF as their first ICS/LABA were matched 1:1 with patients who had received FP/SAL or BUD/FF, resulting in two matched comparisons. Additional analysis was conducted on patients who had never had diagnostic codes for asthma. Noninferiority in terms of the proportion of patients with moderate/severe COPD exacerbations on the different inhalers in the following year was assessed. Noninferiority was achieved if the upper CI limit were ≤1.2. Results: This study included 537 and 540 patient pairs in the BDP/FF vs FP/SAL cohort and the BDP/FF vs BUD/FF cohort, respectively. The proportion of patients with COPD exacerbations in the BDP/FF group was not significantly different from either the FP/SAL (68.7% vs 70.2%, AOR 0.89, 95% CI 0.67–1.19) or BUD/FF group (68.5% vs 69.4%, AOR 0.79, 95% CI 0.58–1.08). Noninferiority of BDP/FF in preventing COPD exacerbations was fulfilled in both comparisons. In patients without asthma, BDP/FF was also noninferior to BUD/FF (proportion with COPD exacerbations, 67.8% vs 64.7%, AOR 0.79, 95% CI 0.51– 1.1997). Additionally, a significantly lower proportion of patients prescribed BDP/FF had COPD exacerbations than FP/SAL (64.8% vs 73.7%, AOR 0.64 95% CI 0.43–0.96). Conclusion: Initiating ICS/LABA treatment of COPD with extrafine-formulation BDP/ FF was noninferior in preventing moderate/severe exacerbations compared to FP/SAL and BUD/FF.
cantime®, or Shark Cartilage Extract on Iranian Strain of Leishmania major (MRHO/IR/75/ER): An In-Vitro and In-Vivo Study

1. Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran 2. Arthropod Born Diseases Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran 3. Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran 4. Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran 5. Faculty of Medical Sciences, Abadan University of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran
Trade Policies and Fiscal Devaluations: Equivalence, Neutrality, and Macroeconomic Effects∗

We study the macroeconomic effects of three policies: An increase in import tariffs and export subsidies (IX), a border adjustment of corporate profit taxes (BAT), and an increase in value-added taxes accompanied by a payroll tax reduction (VP). The expected evolution and the tax pass-through of these policies critically determine their short-run macroeconomic effects. IX and BAT boost net exports and output, even under flexible exchange rates. A VP policy in general depresses domestic demand and output, especially under fixed exchange rates. Our model accounts quantitatively for the poor performance of the German economy after the 2007 VP-fiscal devaluation. JEL classification: E32, F30, H22
OPTH_A_280868 3991..4003

1Department of Optometry, Radiography and Lighting Design, University of South-Eastern Norway, Kongsberg, Norway; 2Ifocus Eye Clinic, Haugesund, Norway Purpose: To compare the repeatability of keratometry between different instruments in patients with hyperosmolar tear film and a control group. Patients and Methods: Subjects with tear-film osmolarity of 316 mOsm/L or more in either eye or 308 m/Osm/L or lower in both eyes were assigned to the hyperosmolar and the control group, respectively. The test eye was the eye with higher osmolarity in the hyperosmolar group and randomly chosen in the control group. The repeatability of keratometry was compared between a reflectometry device (Haag-Streit Lenstar 900), a Scheimpflug device (Oculus Pentacam HR) and two optical coherence tomography (OCT) devices (Tomey Casia SS-1000 and Heidelberg Anterion), based on two measurements from each device. Results: The study included 94 subjects (31 hyperosmolar and 63 controls). Both OCT devices had higher mean differences of average simulated keratometry (SimK) vs the Lenstar in both groups, though all differences in means were <0.07 D. The Casia had the highest mean vector difference of SimK astigmatism in the control group (differences in means <0.11 D). These differences of the instruments were statistically significant (p < 0.02), except for the Anterion in the control group. With all subjects, the coefficient of repeatability varied from 0.1 to 0.3 for average SimK (highest for both OCT devices) and from 0.4 to 0.7 for SimK astigmatism (highest for the Casia). Similar results were found for total corneal power (OCT devices compared to the Pentacam). Conclusion: Both OCT devices show more variability in average SimK and the Casia more variability in SimK astigmatism compared to the Lenstar and the Pentacam. However, the results suggested that repeatability was not influenced by osmolarity.
Knowledge, Awareness, and Attitude Towards Importance of Finishing and Polishing used of Composite Restorations

Critical clinical procedures during restoration of the teeth include proper finishing and polishing of dental restoratives, they are especially important for the esthetics and longevity of restorations. Residual surface roughness of restorations can influence dental biofilm retention, resulting in superficial staining, gingival inflammation, and secondary caries, which leads to affecting the clinical performance of restorations. Thus, the aim of the study is to determine the level of knowledge, awareness, and practice among the dental students regarding the importance of Finishing and polishing of composite restoration. The questionnaire consisting of 10 questions was prepared online and the link was distributed to the dental students to fill the survey. The data was imported to SPSS software for statistical analysis, chi square test was done. Association between gender distribution and awareness among the students if finishing and polishing of composite restorations are mandatory, shows 23% of males and 39% of females agreed it was mandatory. Association between gender distribution and awareness among the students if type of composite plays a vital role in color stability, both males (29%) and females (44%) agreed that type of composite plays a vital role. Association between gender distribution and finishing and polishing being done by the students, both males (36%) and females (49%) practiced finishing and polishing of composite for the patients in their practice. These associations did not show statistical significance. The use of Composite restorations in the field of dentistry has become extremely popular and most preferred type of restorations among the patients. Importance of awareness regarding new techniques in dentistry should be emphasized to the future dental practitioners.
Influence of Duration of the Conditioning Process on the Reduction of Case-Hardening Level in Kiln-Dried Beech and Oak Lumber

The research results from an analysis of the influence of conditioning time on case-hardening reduction are presented. The levels of case-hardening and moisture content differences across the thickness on beech and oak lumber were measured before, during, and after conditioning. A relationship between gap, as the measure of case-hardening in wood (ENV 14464), and conditioning time was found; a highly linear relationship also exists between gap and moisture content differences across the lumber thickness. Time analysis showed that much shorter conditioning times were adequate to reach acceptable drying quality than the times currently used. It is shown that the conditioning regimes that use equilibrium moisture content lower than the final moisture content are inadequate to obtain a dried product quality that meets modern European standards.
An Analysis of the Business Process Reengineering (BPR) Implementation Practices and their Impact on Customer Satisfaction in the Banking Sector

The study analyzed the factors that affect the effective implementation of Business Process Reengineering (BPR) in the banking sector and how that affects customer satisfaction. Guided by a deductive approach, a research conceptual model was developed with four BPR implementation determinants which were measured against Customer Satisfaction. The identified determinants of effective BPR implementation were Change Culture, Information Technology, Employee Commitment and Financial Resources. Statistical hypothesised associations were formulated and literature was analysed to substantiate the validity of the study variables and to paint a clear theoretical gap which the study filled. Data was collected using selfadministered email survey from 11 banks which were in the sampling frame. A quantitative, positivist orientation was followed as the study collected data using a structured questionnaire. The study results depicted the main challenges that were detracting effective implementation of BPR in traditional banks in Zimbabwe. The study found out that BPR implementation explains Customer Satisfaction by 47%. The banking sector was consequently recommended to enhance an agile culture, reconsider their financial investment policies and revamp their information technology hardware and software so as to enhance agile BPR implementation practices which improve customer experience and satisfaction.
Prevalence and Predictors of Zinc Deficiency among Children and Non-Pregnant Women in Nepal: Analysis of Nepal Micronutrients Status Survey 2016

Zinc deficiency, a common malnutrition in children and women is a global public health problem.Burden of zinc deficiencyis more in countries with low meat and high cereal food consumption like Nepal. Nationally representative data on zinc status in Nepal is lacking at present. This study analysed the data from the recent Nepal National Micronutrient status survey 2016(NNMSS-2016) to determinethe prevalence of zinc deficiency and associated risk factors among children aged 6-59 months (n=1462) and non-pregnant women aged 15-49 years(n=1923) from three ecological zones, Hill, Terai, and Mountainof the country. Venous blood was collected from the participants to measure micronutrients such as zinc, markers of anaemia, vitamin A, and markers of inflammation. Stool was collected to assessthe soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) and Helicobacterpylori infection. Socio-demographic, household and other relevant information were collected by a structured questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to examine the predictors of zinc deficiency among the participants.The overall zinc deficiency in children was found to be 22.9% while it was higher in non-pregnant women (24.7%). Predictors associated with zinc deficiency among enrolled children in the study were,living in rural areas (AOR=2.25, 95% CI, [1.13, 4.49]),occurrence of diarrhoea during the two weeks preceding the survey (AOR=1.57, 95% CI, [1.07, 2.30]), household wealth quintile (AOR= 0.48, 95% CI,[0.25, 0.92]) and vitamin A status (AOR=0.49, 95% CI,[0.28, 0.85]. Risk factors associated with zinc deficiency among the non-pregnant women were being underweight (AOR=1.60, 95% CI,[1.15, 2.23]), fever occurrence during two weeks preceding the survey (AOR=1.45, 95% CI,[ 1.06, 1.99]), H. pylori in the stool (AOR=1.32, 95% CI, [1.03, 1.70]), being rich (AOR=0.64, 95% CI,[0.42, 0.98]) and being in the risk of folate deficiency (AOR=0.60, 95% CI,[0.37, 0.96]). We conclude that community focused intervention programs including health and nutrition counselling and livelihood opportunities focusing groups at high-risk may improve the zinc status in Nepal.
Effect of nitrogen on the band structure of GaInNAs alloys

We show that incorporation of nitrogen in Ga1−xInxAs to form Ga1−xInxNyAs1−y alloys leads to a splitting of the conduction band into two nonparabolic subbands. The splitting can be described in terms of an anticrossing interaction between a narrow band of localized nitrogen states and the extended conduction-band states of the semiconductor matrix. The downward shift of the lower subband edge accounts for the N-induced reduction of the fundamental band-gap energy. An analysis of the relationship between the subband splitting and the band-gap reduction demonstrates that the energetic location of the valence band is nearly independent of the N content in Ga1−xInxNyAs1−y alloys.
Simulation Study of Water Adsorption on Carbon Black: The Effect of Graphite Water Interaction Strength

The adsorption of water on carbon black has been calculated on several model graphitized carbon blacks using Monte Carlo simulation. The surface is modeled using different interaction strengths for a Steele type potential and the placement of various functional groups on the surface. The results for the various surface configurations are compared with the few experimental results available in the literature. Traditionally used parameters for the Steele potential provide isotherms with no similarity to those seen in experiment. Increased interaction well depths with the surface lead to more realistic isotherms but still require strongly attractive functional groups for qualitative agreement. The well depth used to achieve this falls within the realm of interaction strengths proposed in the literature by various methods. Full agreement with experiment isotherms is not achieved apparently because of a lack of large clusters formed in the simulations.
Word Fluency in Typically Developing Malayalam Speaking Children

Word fluency or verbal fluency is the ability to form and express words that are attuned with the required criteria. The test of word fluency assesses verbal functioning using two tasks i.e., category fluency or semantic fluency task (SF) and letter fluency or phonemic fluency task (PF). The performance of these tasks is related to vocabulary size and speed of lexical access which are directly related to the learning process. The present study aimed at assessing the word fluency in 5-14 year old typically developing Malayalam speaking children and the objectives were (1). To assess the word fluency in terms of semantic fluency and phonemic fluency in typically developing Malayalam speaking children across age and gender. (2). To compare the performance of typically developing Malayalam speaking children in both semantic fluency and phonemic fluency tasks across the age and the gender. The study included 600 typically developing children in the age range of 5-14 years. A cross-sectional research design was used to assess the semantic fluency and phonemic fluency. The results of the study revealed that there were distinct patterns of continuous and linear developmental trend in word fluency. The outcome of the study has also revealed a positive influence of age and gender on the word fluency.
Effect of a Relaxation Training Exercise on Behaviour, Anxiety and Pain During Administration of Intra-Oral Local Anaesthesia in Children of Age 6 to 12 years: Randomized Controlled Trial

Dental fear not only stands in the way of rendering proper care to the patient but also is stressful for the pediatric dentist as the treatment might require more time and resources. Because of these and many more reasons, behaviour guidance and management of the dental fear and anxiety is an essential part in rendering dental care to pediatric patients. The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficiency of this bubble breath exercise in improving the behaviour and in reducing the anxiety and pain perception in children of age 6 to 12 years, while injecting intraoral local anaesthesia. The study consisted of 60 children randomly allocated into two groups as 30 children in each group. The tools used to study the parameters were Frankl’s behaviour rating scale and Facial Index Scale (FIS) for behaviour and anxiety and Face Leg Activity Cry Consolability (FLACC) scale and Wong-Baker FACES pain scale for pain perception. The results were analysed statistically using SPSS Software version 23. Results of this study conclude that the bubble breath exercise is effective in improving the behaviour and reducing anxiety of the child but not much effective in reducing the pain perception during administration of local anaesthetic.
High Resolution X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Measurements of Octadecanethiol Self-Assembled Monolayers on Au(111)

We have measured high-resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectra of 1-octadecanethiol (ODT) self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on a Au(111) surface in order to investigate the Au−S binding properties at the initial stage of SAM growth and after the desorption of the ODT from the Au surface. For the SAM prepared by the 1 min immersion into the ODT solution, we found new sulfur species around 161 eV and assigned it to isolated sulfur without C−S cleavage. We also confirmed the presence of a similar 161 eV peak in the S(2p) spectra after desorption of the ODT molecules. Furthermore, we observed a peak shift in the carbon 1s (C(1s)) peak, depending on the surface coverage of the ODT. In addition to the C(1s) peak of 285.1 eV which might correspond to alkyl chains of densely packed ODT molecules, another lower binding energy peak at 284.3 eV appeared after annealing. This lower C(1s) binding energy peak formation suggested that some of the alkyl chains for the remaining ODT molecules might be orie.
A New Mortality Predictor in Patients of Internal Medicine Intensive Care Unit: C-Reactive Protein-to-Albumin Ratio

Aims: C-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin can be used as prognostic markers for various clinical results, the combination of these markers has even greater prognostic value. This study aimed to examine whether the C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR) has any prognostic role in respect of mortality in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Methods: A retrospective evaluation was made of 119 patients in the ICU in respect of demographic characteristics, disease diagnosis, laboratory data, CAR, and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) scores. Results: The mean APACHE II scores and the total length of stay in hospital values were significantly higher, albumin was low and the mean CRP and CAR values were high in the non-survivors group. In the multivariate analysis, CAR, and APACHE II were determined as independent determinants. The Kaplan-Meier curve and the Log-Rank test showed that total 60-day mortality was higher in the patient group with high CAR. In the ROC curve analysis applied for 60-day mortality after admission to ICU, the area under the curve values of APACHE II and CAR were calculated as 0.947 and 0.676 respectively. Conclusion: Few studies are available in the literature about the CAR value in general ICU patients was evaluated in respect of mortality. It was determined that increased CAR values were associated with mortality. This can be considered an important parameter as the predictive rates of mortality are as high as those of APACHE II, and it is a low-cost and readily available parameter that can be used alone in the determination of mortality prediction.
BALANCED FERTILIZATION OF MAJOR CROPS IN EGYPT : A REVIEW

The aim of this study will be to have the ratio of nitrogen fertilizers applied to the main crops, using various sources of nitrogen, time and method of application, in order to increase the efficiency of nitrogen fertilizers and nitrogen to reduce losses. Most of the soil cultivated in clay, Egypt is alluvial soils in texture. About 420 thousand hectares, sandy and limestone. The results of the average physical and chemical analyses of the soil and samples from different sites to represent the different types of soils. The results obtained indicate the presence of a wide range of physical and chemical properties. The organic matter content is low and, accordingly, is the total nitrogen concentration. With regard to alluvial soils and available phosphorous determined by the Olsen method is generally moderate. The results indicate that available (soluble and exchangeable) potassium extract with a neutral solution of high ammonium acetate, this is a characteristic of alluvial soils of most Egyptians. Available levels of phosphorous, potassium, and micronutrients are relatively low on limestone and sandy soils.
RESILIENCE CHARACTERISTICS OF FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN WITH SEVERE OR PROFOUND INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY

The aim of this study was to explore family characteristics and resources that assisted families to adapt after their children had been diagnosed with severe or profound intellectual disability. A qualitative research approach with a cross-sectional design was used, as the study was focused on participants’ experiences. It was found that spiritual resources and reformulation of the crisis helped families to reframe their experiences with a more positive outlook. Social support from the family networks, friends and the community, and positive family characteristics, such as perseverance and humour, also contributed to family adaptation and well-being. Good planning regarding daily activities, as well as for their children's future, was also deemed important.
COVER CROPS AND NITROGEN FERTILIZATION - NUTRITIONAL ASPECTS AND AGRONOMIC PERFORMANCE OF MAIZE GROWN IN SUCESSION

Cover crops can contribute differently to the supply of nitrogen to crops. The objective was to evaluate the response of maize to nitrogen doses (0, 70, 140, 210 and 280 kg ha-1) when grown in succession to cover crops (vetch, forage turnip, black oat, ryegrass and fallow). The randomized block experimental design was used, with subdivided plots and four replications. Cover crops were allocated into plots, and N doses into sub-plots. As to cover crops, the aspects evaluated were phytomass production, N content and total accumulated; with regard to maize, the aspects evaluated were SPAD (Soil Plant Analysis evelopment) index, leaf N content, total grain protein, yield and agronomic efficiency of N. Black oat, ryegrass and forage turnip presented higher phytomass production. All species had similar results as to the total N accumulated in the aerial part (average value of 91.06 kg ha-1). In succession to black oat, ryegrass and fallow period, N doses up to 140 kg ha-1 applied in maize result in higher yield and better agronomic efficiency of nitrogen use. Without application of nitrogen (0.0 kg ha1), forage turnip and vetch provided higher total protein content in the grain, yield over 8,550 kg ha-1, and less agronomic efficiency of nitrogen use.