Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Better regulation in the European Union: Lost in Translation or Full Steam Ahead? The transportation of EU transport directives across member states.

Better regulation in the European Union cannot be achieved without serious attention to transposition of EU law into national legislation. As a matter of fact, EU member states breach EU law – perpetuately. Why do member states miss deadlines when transposing EU internal market directives? What factors determine delays when transposing EU directives? How do these factors influence the timeliness of the national transposition processes? And under what conditions are transpositions of directives delayed? This study analyses the timeliness of national transposition processes across nine member states of the 2004 EU transport acquis. Based on a truly mixed-method approach – a new quantitative data set with further insights gleaned from four controlled case studies and a concluding fuzzy set analysis - this study shows that the European Union has a serious transposition problem. Almost 70 percent of all national legal measures transposing the transport acquis cause problems, either because they are transposed too late, risking the opening of an infringement proceeding, or because they are too early (gold-plating), risking warping effects on the regulatory environment for business and citizens in the EU alike. Furthermore, this book provides some progress regarding the conditions under which transposition performance of member states could be improved. Seven potential European and national drivers and constrainers for timely transposition can be identified with different effects on the lengths of transposition delays. Distinguishing between three outcomes of transposition process (on time, short and long delay) it is the specific features of European directives that account for short term delays, whereas serious time lags of more than six months are a result of domestic factors. Furthermore, the timing of general elections in a member state and policy sector-related crises retard or rather accelerate national transposition processes just as political priority represents a significant necessary condition for timeliness.
Olanzapine Reduction From High Dose to Standard Dose

Abstract Purpose/Background Although high-dose olanzapine might be a treatment option in patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia, it can be reduced to the standard dose after symptoms are stabilized. We examined the rate of olanzapine reduction from high to standard dose and whether this change was successful. Methods/Procedures We included patients who received high-dose olanzapine (>20 mg/d) for 4 weeks or longer at our hospital. First, we retrospectively followed the patients for 6 years and estimated the percentage of those whose olanzapine was reduced from high to standard dose. Second, we followed patients who received olanzapine reduction for 1 year and estimated the rate of success based on the study-defined criteria for unsuccessful reduction. We also explored factors associated with the dose reduction and successful results. Findings/Results Among 110 patients who received high-dose olanzapine treatment, 72 had their olanzapine dose reduced to the standard dose for 6 years; the duration of high-dose olanzapine treatment was significantly and negatively associated with a reduction in olanzapine (hazard ratio, 0.98; 95% confidence interval, 0.98–0.99). Among the patients whose olanzapine was reduced, 50 achieved successful reduction for 1 year. Among the reasons for the reduction, an unknown reason was significantly associated with successful reduction (hazard ratio, 4.93; 95% confidence interval, 1.55–22.8). Implications/Conclusions The findings suggest that high-dose olanzapine can be reduced to the standard dose after stabilization of symptoms in most patients with schizophrenia.
Assessment of metal ion accumulation in oral mucosa cells of patients with fixed orthodontic treatment and cellular DNA damage: a systematic review

Abstract Intraoral fixed appliances remain in the potentially corrosive environment of the mouth for an average of two years. Over time, corrosion causes the release of metal ions, such as nickel and chromium. These metals can become allergenic and cytotoxic, causing different conditions in the human body. The aim of this study therefore is to carry out a systematic review of the available scientific evidence on the accumulation of metal ions, and the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects in oral mucosa cells deriving from short- and long-term exposure to them. The systematic review is reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. The primary outcome (quantification of metal ion deposits and assessment of their genotoxic and/or cytotoxic effects) and secondary outcome (complementary analysis of cytotoxic and genotoxic effects) were examined. The Cochrane Collaboration tool and Toxicological data Reliability Assessment Tool (ToxRTool) were used for quality assessment. Once the search was performed, a total of seven articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in this study. Two main techniques were used to assess genotoxic effects: alkaline comet assay (6/7) and micronucleus method (1/7). Cytotoxicity was evaluated (4/7) using the trypan blue dye test. Accumulations of nickel (7/7), chromium (5/7), and other metals (zinc, cobalt, iron, manganese, molybdenum, titanium) were also quantified. The results allowed us to conclude that release of metal ions and acute cell and DNA damage in oral mucosa cells takes place in the early stages of treatment. However, more long-term studies are needed to evaluate chronic exposure to metals and DNA damage, as well as cellular capacity to recover DNA integrity.
Brief self-affirmation intervention for adults with psoriasis for reducing anxiety and depression and boosting well-being: Evidence from a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background There are relatively few studies to address mental health implications of self-affirming, especially across groups experiencing a chronic health condition. In this study, short- and longer-term effects of a brief self-affirmation intervention framed in terms of implementation intentions (if-then plans with self-affirming cognitions; S-AII) were evaluated against an active control group (non-affirming implementation intentions; N-AII), matched to the target condition, and mere goal intention condition (a non-active control) in adults with psoriasis. The three pre-registered primary outcomes captured depression, anxiety, and well-being. Methods Adults with psoriasis (N = 175; Mage = 36.53, s.d. = 11.52) were randomized into S-AII, N-AII, or control. Participants' mental health outcomes were assessed prior to randomization (at baseline), at week 2 (post-intervention), and at a 1-month follow-up. Results Linear mixed models were used and results were reported on the intention-to-treat principle. Analyses revealed that S-AII exerted significantly more improvement in the course of well-being (ds > 0.25), depressive symptoms (ds > −0.40), and anxiety (ds > −0.45) than the N-AII and control group at 2-week post-intervention. Though the differences between groups faded at 1-month follow-up, the within-group changes over time for S-AII in all mental health outcomes remained significant. Conclusions Brief and low-intensity S-AII intervention exerted in the short-term a considerable impact on mental health outcomes. The S-AII shows promising results as a relevant public mental health strategy for enhancing well-being and reducing psychological distress. Future studies could consider whether these effects can be further enhanced with booster interventions.
A Digital Self-management Program (Help to Overcome Problems Effectively) for People Living With Cancer: Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial

Background We present the results of a feasibility, randomized waitlist control group (CG) parallel design study with a 1:1 allocation ratio. Participants were randomized into an intervention group (IG) or a waitlist CG. The intervention was a 6-week digital self-management program, Help to Overcome Problems Effectively (HOPE), for people with cancer. Objective This study aims to test the feasibility of a digitally delivered self-management program for people with cancer. This will inform the design of a definitive randomized controlled trial. In addition, a preliminary assessment of the impact of the HOPE program via secondary outcomes will be used to assess signals of efficacy in a trial context. Methods Participants were drawn from an opportunity sample, referred by Macmillan Cancer Support, and were invited via email to participate in the study (N=61). Primary outcomes were rates of recruitment, retention, follow-up, completion and adherence, sample size and effect size estimation, and assessment of progression criteria for a definitive trial. Secondary outcomes were self-report measures of participants’ positive mental well-being, depression, anxiety, and patient activation (ie, confidence in managing their cancer). The intervention and data collection took place on the web. Results The recruitment rate was 77% (47/61). A total of 41 participants completed the baseline questionnaires and were randomized to either the IG (n=21) or the waitlist CG (n=20). The retention rate (attending all program sessions) was greater than 50% (all: 21/41, 51%, IG: 10/21, 48%; and CG: 11/20, 55%). The follow-up rate (completing all questionnaires) was greater than 80% (all: 33/41, 80%; IG: 16/21, 76%; and CG: 17/20, 85%). The completion rate (attending ≥3 sessions and completing all questionnaires) was greater than 60% (all: 25/41, 61%; IG: 13/21, 62%; and CG: 12/20, 60%). Engagement data showed that participants viewed between half (5.1/10, 51%) and three-quarters (12.2/16, 76%) of the pages in each session. Conclusions All progression criteria for a definitive trial were met, as supported by the primary outcome data. The IG showed improved postprogram scores on measures of positive mental well-being, depression, anxiety, and patient activation. A full-scale trial of the digital HOPE program for people with cancer will allow us to fully evaluate the efficacy of the intervention relative to a CG. Trial Registration ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN79623250; http://www.isrctn. com/ISRCTN79623250 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/24264
Prognosticating Outcome in Pancreatic Head Cancer With the use of a Machine Learning Algorithm

Background: The purpose of this project is to identify prognostic features in resectable pancreatic head adenocarcinoma and use these features to develop a machine learning algorithm that prognosticates survival for patients pursuing pancreaticoduodenectomy. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 93 patients who underwent a pancreaticoduodenectomy was performed. The patients were analyzed in 2 groups: Group 1 (n = 38) comprised of patients who survived < 2 years, and Group 2 (n = 55) comprised of patients who survived > 2 years. After comparing the two groups, 9 categorical features and 2 continuous features (11 total) were selected to be statistically significant (p < .05) in predicting outcome after surgery. These 11 features were used to train a machine learning algorithm that prognosticates survival. Results: The algorithm obtained 75% accuracy, 41.9% sensitivity, and 97.5% specificity in predicting whether survival is less than 2 years after surgery. Conclusion: A supervised machine learning algorithm that prognosticates survival can be a useful tool to personalize treatment plans for patients with pancreatic cancer.
Integration of Bicycling and Walking Facilities into the Infrastructure of Urban Communities

Several manuals, handbooks and web resources exist to provide varied guidance on planning for and designing bicycle and pedestrian facilities, yet there are no specific indications about which of the varied treatments in these guides work well for users. This project highlights best practices and identifies program characteristics associated with high levels of non-motorized travel, with an emphasis on bicyclists and pedestrians. It highlights practices in the California communities of Davis, Palo Alto and San Luis Obispo. The case studies are used to illustrate how urban communities have integrated non-motorized transportation modes into the physical infrastructure and worked to educate community residents and employees. The most salient themes that emerged from this study are linked to the following user preference: (a) distance to desired land uses and activities; (b) route directness; (c) route connectivity; (d) the separation of motorized and non-motorized transportation modes; (e) safety; (f) convenience; and (g) education and outreach. The aforementioned themes are integrated into key guiding principles that correspond to the trip-making cycle, from the decision to engage in an activity through the choice of route to arrival at the destination.
THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN HEPATIC ISG EXPRESSION, GENETIC VARIATION IN INTERLEUKIN 28B, AND THE RESPONSE TO INTERFERON THERAPY AMONG PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEPATITIS C VIRUS INFECTION

Hanan Abdel -Haleem Marzouk ; Hanan Abd ElHafez; Abd El Rahman Zekri; Medhat Hassan El Sahar; Mohamed Ibrahim Elfar Department of Endemic Medicine and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt. Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, El Agouza Police authority Hospital, Giza, Egypt. farco77@hotmail.com
Dynamic Behavior of Sandwich Beams With Internal Resonators

Sharma, Bhisham Ph.D., Purdue University, December 2013. Dynamic Behavior of Sandwich Beams with Internal Resonators Major Professor: Chin-Teh Sun. Dynamic behavior of sandwich beams with internal resonators was investigated. The effect of inserting spring-mass resonators into the sandwich core was theoretically analyzed and it was shown that a wave attenuation bandgap exists due to local resonance. Steady state experiments were used to demonstrate such an attenuation bandgap. Frequency response functions were obtained for a beam with resonators and without resonators. It was shown that insertion of resonators into the core causes a wave attenuation bandgap to open up. The experimental results were verified using finite element simulations. Further experiments were carried out by tuning the resonators at 12 Hz and it was demonstrated that a wave attenuation bandgap can be created at low frequencies which would help attenuate low frequency periodic loads such as those associated with hull slamming. The antiresonance phenomenon was experimentally demonstrated. By inserting local resonators tuned at the first flexural resonance frequency of the beam, it was shown that the excessive vibrations associated with resonance modes can be attenuated by inserting local resonators tuned at the global beam resonance frequency. The behavior of such sandwich beams under impact loads was also considered. Using finite element simulations, the effect of a chosen local resonance frequency on
Science Since Babylon

Professor Price has enlarged his widely known and influential study of science and the humanities to include much new material, extraordinarily broad in its range: from ancient automata, talismans and symbols, to the differences of modern science and technology. Science since Babylon is now more fascinating and useful than ever to anyone concerned with the humanistic understanding of science. Originating in a series of five public lectures delivered under the auspices of the history department at Yale University in 1959, this book is an investigation of the circumstances and consequences of certain vital decisions relating to scientific crises which have the world to its present state of scientific and technological development. Not just another book on "History of Science," it is a plea, an exemplification for a whole new range of studies to take its place in the territory between the humanities and the sciences. The chapter on "Diseases of Science" has received much public attention as an analysis of the present structure and probable future of the organization of science. The author documents his study with accounts of his own researches in his specific fields of interest, relating them to the "crises" which he believes to be of paramount importance.
Evaluation of off-bias-stress induced surface charging at AlGaN/GaN surface using a dual-gate transistor structure

Using a dual-gate transistor structure, we have evaluated the effect of off-bias-stress spatially induced surface charging at the AlGaN/GaN surface. Pulsed voltage stress on the drain access region led only to increase in the on-resistance, whereas the stress on the source region additionally decreased the saturation drain current. In addition, significant surface charging in the access region resulted in a threshold voltage shift. The two-dimensional (2D) potential simulation indicated that surface negative charges modulate the potential distribution near the gate edge. It was also found that such surface charging can extend as far as 0.5 µm from the stressing gate edge.
The Role of Patent Quality in Europe

Presently, there is increasing debate about patent quality, not only in the U.S., but also in Europe. After a brief introduction to the complex issue of patent quality, we will illustrate some differentiations in, or make observations on, the current European patent system and the statutory requirements. Then, we will discuss some possible remedies within the patent system and other corrective measures. We will therefore repeatedly look to the U.S., as the problems of patent quality seem to be more urgent there. Though the systems differ in some respects, they are comparable on the major points. Moreover, because of the competition of the patent systems, we might be able to see the advantages and disadvantages of the European system more clearly. We will conclude with an evaluation of the proposals.
ANEMIA IN COVID-19 DISEASE AND ITS CORRELATES AMONG PATIENTS ADMITTED TO TEACHING HOSPITALS IN BABYLON GOVERNORATE, IRAQ

Background: The involvement of hematopoietic system component in COVID-19 is evident in severe instances and is associated with poor outcomes and death.Hemoglobin concentration is one of the most significant factors of the blood's oxygen-carrying capability. Low hemoglobin levels in COVID-19 patients, particularly in groups at high risk of complications and death, may suggest that the patients' hemoglobin is unable to sustain the higher peripheral tissue oxygen demands caused by hypermetabolic states during infection . A better knowledge of the pathophysiology of COVID-19-induced hematological abnormalities may lead to improved treatments and a reduction in morbidity and death Objectives: This study was conducted to identify the relationship between anemia and COVID-19 disease, and to investigate the relationship between low hemoglobin and COVID-19 disease severity. Methods:This was a cross-sectional study conducted in Teaching Hospitals in Babylon Governorate (Marjan Medical City and Al-Imam ALSadiq Hospital) during the period from April to the end of July, 2021. Data were collected from patients or companions and from hospital records to study the laboratory investigations needed . The data collected by using questionnaire prepared by the researcher that included sociodemographic information and laboratory investigations and the outcome of COVID-19 infected patients. Results: A sample of 357 cases were studied, diagnosed with COVID-19 disease either by Polymerase Chain Reaction or by Computed Tomography Scan , the participants mean age±SD was 54.9±16.5 years. Most of the patients were above 40 years (81%). The male to female ratio was 1.2:1. Patients with severe and critical disease comprising 57%, and with mild to moderate disease 43%. Anemia was found in a large proportion of patients and it was more in males (58%), although large number of patients have anemia but there was no significant differences between anemia and the disease severity. Conclusion: Anemia was found in more than half of COVID-19 patients and men are more affected than women, but there was no significant association between anemia and the disease severity.
Analysis of Piezoelectric Smart Composites Using a Coupled Piezoelectric-Mechanical Model

A two-way piezoelectric-mechanical coupled theory is used to investigate the multiple field interactions of composite laminates with surface-bonded piezoelectric actuators and sensors. A higher order electrical potential field is used to accurately describe the nonuniform distribution of electric potential through the thickness of piezoelectric layers. A higher order laminate theory is used to describe the displacement fields of both composite laminate and piezoelectric layers to accurately model transverse shear deformation which is significant in moderately thick constructions. A finite element laminate model with surface bonded/embedded piezoelectric actuators or sensors is developed to implement the theory. Induced deformation, charge and current are investigated to evaluate actuation and sensing effects of piezoelectric materials. The results obtained using this coupled theory are compared with those obtained using an uncoupled theory. Numerical results indicate that two-way coupling effects affect the prediction of structural deflection, stress distribution and electrical signal significantly. The thickness ratio of piezoelectric layer to plate structure is a critical parameter that governs the significance of coupling effects. The coupled piezoelectric-mechanical theory is capable of accurately modeling the characteristics of thick piezoelectric layers.
Water in zeolite L and its MOF mimic

Abstract Confinement of molecules in one dimensional arrays of channel-shaped cavities has led to technologically interesting materials. However, the interactions governing the supramolecular aggregates still remain obscure, even for the most common guest molecule: water. Herein, we use computational chemistry methods (#compchem) to study the water organization inside two different channel-type environments: zeolite L – a widely used matrix for inclusion of dye molecules, and ZLMOF – the closest metal-organic-framework mimic of zeolite L. In ZLMOF, the methyl groups of the ligands protrude inside the channels, creating nearly isolated nanocavities. These cavities host well-separated ring-shaped clusters of water molecules, dominated mainly by water-water hydrogen bonds. ZLMOF provides arrays of “isolated supramolecule” environments, which might be exploited for the individual confinement of small species with interesting optical or catalytic properties. In contrast, the one dimensional channels of zeolite L contain a continuous supramolecular structure, governed by the water interactions with potassium cations and by water-water hydrogen bonds. Water imparts a significant energetic stabilization to both materials, which increases with the water content in ZLMOF and follows the opposite trend in zeolite L. The water network in zeolite L contains an intriguing hypercoordinated structure, where a water molecule is surrounded by five strong hydrogen bonds. Such a structure, here described for the first time in zeolites, can be considered as a water pre-dissociation complex and might explain the experimentally detected high proton activity in zeolite L nanochannels.