Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of an Online Education and Support Intervention for Adolescents With Diabetes

The current study evaluated an online education and support website intervention for adolescents with Type 1 diabetes. Participants were enrolled in an 8-week, online program addressing diabetes-related issues for adolescents. The evaluation comprised an intervention trial in which participants were assigned to an intervention or control group, and pre- and post-intervention measures of social support were administered. Outcomes indicated interventional gains approaching significance in participants' quality of relationships with others external to their family. Post-intervention qualitative interviews with intervention group participants identified beneficial impacts of decreased isolation, knowledge gain, and normalization of experience. Findings suggest that online information and support is an important resource in augmenting clinical care. Implications and recommendations for clinical practice are discussed.
Role of the gender-linked norm of toughness in the decision to engage in treatment for depression.

OBJECTIVE Given their prevalence and persuasive power in our culture, gender norms--commonly described as socially reinforced, learned expectations of what it means to be a man or a woman--likely contribute to sex differences in service utilization for depression. This study investigated whether sex differences in toughness, a gender-linked norm characterized by a desire to hide pain and maintain independence, were associated with a preference to wait for depression to resolve on its own without active professional treatment ("wait-and-see" approach). METHODS Participants (N=1,051) in the California Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey were contacted in a follow-on survey to assess toughness, the kind of treatment they would prefer were they to receive a diagnosis of depression, and current symptoms of depression. Participants who reported ever having been diagnosed as having a depressive disorder on the BRFSS were oversampled threefold. Analyses were conducted using linear and logistic regressions. RESULTS Men and women who scored higher on toughness had a greater preference for the wait-and-see approach (OR=1.14, p<.01). Women were less likely to prefer the wait-and-see approach (OR=.58, p<.04) and scored lower on toughness (B=-.70, p<.01). Men's greater levels of toughness partially mediated the sex difference in treatment preferences (OR=.91, p<.03). CONCLUSIONS Men's greater adherence to the toughness norm explained part of the sex difference observed in treatment-seeking preferences, but toughness undermined women's treatment seeking as well. Findings could be used to inform novel public health communications intended to attract both men and women to psychiatric services.
Design and analysis of CMOS MEMS based single proof mass Tri-axial capacitive accelerometer with readout integrated circuit

In this paper, a Monolithic CMOS-MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical Systems) based Tri-axis Accelerometer with complete Readout Integrated Circuit (ROIC) implemented using 150nm one-poly-Silicon and six-metal/dielectric CMOS-MEMS process. The multilayer stacking features of the CMOS-MEMS process were exploited to integrate the in-plane (x and y axes) and out-of-plane (z-axis) capacitive sensing electrodes. Thus, the three-axis sensing electrodes can be integrated on a single proof mass to reduce the overall footprint of the Accelerometer. Moreover, the fully differential sensing electrodes among all three axes are implemented to increase the sensitivities and decrease the noise. The accelerometer structure was designed and simulated using Coventor's MEMS+. The Accelerometer measures changes in capacitance between the electrodes to detect detections of a proof mass, which result from external acceleration input. The capacitive MEMS structure is connected to a differential position-sense interface that gives the output Voltage in accordance with change in capacitance.
The Contribution of Candida albicans Vacuolar ATPase Subunit V1B, Encoded by VMA2, to Stress Response, Autophagy, and Virulence Is Independent of Environmental pH

ABSTRACT Candida albicans vacuoles are central to many critical biological processes, including filamentation and in vivo virulence. The V-ATPase proton pump is a multisubunit complex responsible for organellar acidification and is essential for vacuolar biogenesis and function. To study the function of the V1B subunit of C. albicans V-ATPase, we constructed a tetracycline-regulatable VMA2 mutant, tetR-VMA2. Inhibition of VMA2 expression resulted in the inability to grow at alkaline pH and altered resistance to calcium, cold temperature, antifungal drugs, and growth on nonfermentable carbon sources. Furthermore, V-ATPase was unable to fully assemble at the vacuolar membrane and was impaired in proton transport and ATPase-specific activity. VMA2 repression led to vacuolar alkalinization in addition to abnormal vacuolar morphology and biogenesis. Key virulence-related traits, including filamentation and secretion of degradative enzymes, were markedly inhibited. These results are consistent with previous studies of C. albicans V-ATPase; however, differential contributions of the V-ATPase Vo and V1 subunits to filamentation and secretion are observed. We also make the novel observation that inhibition of C. albicans V-ATPase results in increased susceptibility to osmotic stress. Notably, V-ATPase inhibition under conditions of nitrogen starvation results in defects in autophagy. Lastly, we show the first evidence that V-ATPase contributes to virulence in an acidic in vivo system by demonstrating that the tetR-VMA2 mutant is avirulent in a Caenorhabditis elegans infection model. This study illustrates the fundamental requirement of V-ATPase for numerous key virulence-related traits in C. albicans and demonstrates that the contribution of V-ATPase to virulence is independent of host pH.
Soft drink consumption and mental health problems among adults in Australia

Abstract Objective To examine the association between soft drink consumption and mental health problems, including self-reported doctor-diagnosed anxiety, stress-related problem and depression, suicidal ideation and psychological distress, among adults in South Australia. Design Data were collected using a risk factor surveillance system. Each month a representative random sample of South Australians was selected from the Electronic White Pages with interviews conducted using computer-assisted telephone interviewing. Setting South Australia. Subjects Participants were aged 16 years and above. Results Among 4741 participants, 12·5 % reported daily soft drink consumption of more than half a litre. High levels of soft drink consumption were positively associated with depression, stress-related problem, suicidal ideation, psychological distress and a current mental health condition, but not anxiety. Overall, 24·0 % of those having suicidal ideation reported consuming more than half a litre of soft drink per day. In the multivariate analysis, after adjusting for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, those who consumed more than half a litre of soft drink per day had approximately 60 % greater risk of having depression, stress-related problem, suicidal ideation, psychological distress or a current mental health condition, compared with those not consuming soft drinks. The soft drink to total fluid consumption ratio had similar associations with mental health problems. Conclusions There is a positive association between consumption of soft drinks and mental health problems among adults in South Australia.
Fibre tract analysis using diffusion tensor imaging reveals aberrant connectivity in a rat model of depression

Abstract Objectives: Abnormal brain connectivity has been described in depressive disorder. However, these studies are correlational or cross-sectional and their design does not examine causal relationships. We aimed to investigate structural connectivity in a genetic rat model of depression. Methods: Using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), we reconstructed white matter tracts and analysed fractional anisotropy (FA) and diffusivity indices (mean, axial and radial) to investigate structural connectivity in fibre tracts implicated in major depression: the corpus callosum, fornix, cingulum and anterior commissures. Results: Tractography-based analysis revealed that, compared to Wistar control rats, the Wistar–Kyoto strain (WKY) rat model of depression exhibited decreased connectivity, manifested by decreased FA in the corpus callosum, right and left anterior commissures. A statistical trend of decreased FA was observed in both the right and left cingulum. Increased diffusivity (mean diffusion) was detected in both the corpus callosum and the fornix of WKY rats compared to controls. Voxel-based analysis confirmed differences between WKY and controls in the regions investigated. Conclusions: Decreased connectivity in a genetic rat model of depression corroborates the findings in patients suffering from major depression suggesting that the vulnerability for developing depression is mainly polygenic and less likely to be due to childhood adversity per se.
Preliminary Study on the factors Affecting growth and Properties of Mohair and Wool fibers

This review has highlighted several areas in which more information is needed regarding the effects of nutrition, and other environmental factors, on the quantity and quality of mohair and wool fibers produced by Angora goats and Merino sheep, respectively. Fiber production is influenced by nutrient supply. However, the importance of specific nutrients has not been established, apart from one study showing that mohair growth responded to parenteral supplementation with methionine. The nutritional variation within and among years is the most important climatic factor influencing mohair and wool production and quality. Mohair quality and growth is affected significantly by rate of stocking and during periods of live weight loss by supplementary feeding of either energy or protein. The influence and potential use of live weight manipulation in affecting mohair production and quality are described. Estimates of the energy requirements for the maintenance of fiber goats and the effect of pregnancy and lactation on mohair growth are summarized. The effects and importance of management and hygiene during fiber harvesting (shearing) in producing quality fiber is emphasized. The review concludes that it is important to assess the results of scientific experiments for the total environmental content within which they were conducted. In contrast to sheep, some studies indicate that length growth of mohair fibers may not be very responsive to changes in nutrient status.
A chimeric human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) minimal Rev response element-ribozyme molecule exhibits dual antiviral function and inhibits cell-cell transmission of HIV-1

We have previously shown that hairpin ribozymes targeting the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) genome can effectively inhibit virus replication in a variety of primary and cultured hematopoietic cells. To further increase antiviral potency and minimize the chance of viral resistance, we have now cloned the stem-loop II sequences of the HIV type 1 Rev response element into ribozyme transcription cassettes. Fusion RNA molecules were shown to function both as RNA decoys and ribozymes. Stable Molt-4/8 cell lines expressing fusion RNA of stem-loop II and a ribozyme directed at the HIV-type 1 U5 sequence (MSLMJT) or its disabled counterpart (MSLdMJT) were generated. The expression of fusion RNA was persistent for at least 6 months without apparent cytotoxicity. When virus inhibition was examined after the cocultivation of transduced cells with chronically infected Jurkat cells, much greater protection was observed in MSLMJT cells than in MSLdMJT or MMJT (expressing only the ribozyme) cells. Furthermore, to specifically compare the ribozyme activities in various transduced cells, we determined the quantitative levels of proviral DNA in the first round of virus replication (7 h after infection with HXB2). By competitive PCR, the proviral DNA levels in MSLMJT and MMJT cells were found to be reduced to 1/7 and 1/3, respectively, compared with those in MSLdMJT and MdMJT cells. These results suggest not only that the greater inhibition afforded by this fusion RNA was due to its function both as decoy and ribozyme but also that the ribozyme activity may be facilitated.
Mortality impact of AIDS in Abidjan, 1986-1992.

OBJECTIVES To quantify the mortality impact of AIDS in the city of Abidjan (Côte d'Ivoire) by a full scale analysis of mortality trends before and after the onset of the epidemic. DESIGN Data on deaths registered in the 10 vital registration centers of the city between 1973 and 1992, and data on causes of deaths in the four public hospitals were coded and investigated. Data on deaths were compared with census data in order to compute death rates. METHODS Life tables were computed for each of the 20 years of the study. The trends in death rates were analysed during the 10 years before the onset of the AIDS epidemic (1973-1982) and compared with the changing death rates in the following 10 years (1983-1992). Deaths attributable to AIDS were defined as those in excess of the original trends. The evolution in the number of deaths in the hospital allowed an analysis by cause of death. RESULTS There was a marked increase in death rates starting in 1986, date of the first diagnosed AIDS cases in the city. This increase was significant for both sexes, but more pronounced among men. It was concentrated primarily among young adults (aged 25-44 years) and among older children (aged 5-14 years), and most of it was considered to be attributable to AIDS and related infections, tuberculosis in particular. When data were cumulated from 1986 to 1992, approximately 25,000 persons were estimated to have died of AIDS. CONCLUSIONS The high number of AIDS deaths estimated in Abidjan underlines the heavy toll already paid by African populations, and calls for intensive action.
MiR-34a-5p promotes the multi-drug resistance of osteosarcoma by targeting the CD117 gene

An association has been reported between miR-34a-5p and several types of cancer. Specifically, in this study, using systematic observations of multi-drug sensitive (G-292 and MG63.2) and resistant (SJSA-1 and MNNG/HOS) osteosarcoma (OS) cell lines, we showed that miR-34a-5p promotes the multi-drug resistance of OS through the receptor tyrosine kinase CD117, a direct target of miR-34a-5p. Consistently, the siRNA-mediated repression of CD117 in G-292 and MG63.2 cells led to a similar phenotype that exhibited all of the miR-34a-5p mimic-triggered changes. In addition, the activity of the MEF2 signaling pathway was drastically altered by the forced changes in the miR-34a-5p or CD117 level in OS cells. Furthermore, si-CD117 suppressed the enhanced colony and sphere formation, which is in agreement with the characteristics of a cancer stem marker. Taken together, our data established CD117 as a direct target of miR-34-5p and demonstrated that this regulation interferes with several CD117-mediated effects on OS cells. In addition to providing new mechanistic insights, our results will provide an approach for diagnosing and chemotherapeutically treating OS.
The permeability and the efflux of alkaloids of the Evodiae fructus in the Caco‐2 model

The intestinal transport of four indoloquinazoline alkaloids, rutaecarpine (RCP), evodiamine (EDM), dehydroevodiamine (DEDM) and wuzhuyurutine B (WZYB) isolated from the Evodiae fructus was investigated using the monolayers of the human colon adenocarcinoma cell line Caco‐2 as a model system for intestinal absorption. The four alkaloids were measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with UV detector. Transport parameters and permeability coefficients were then calculated and compared under identical conditions with those of mannitol, propranolol and paclitaxel. Permeability coefficients were also compared with the reported values for model compounds like propranolol and mannitol. The four alkaloids at a concentration of 5 µM were demonstrated substantial transport across the Caco‐2 cell monolayers with moderate to high permeability coefficients and WZYB demonstrated higher‐level intestinal transcellular efflux. The transports of DEDM and WZYB were concentration dependent at the concentrations of 5–25 µM. Among four alkaloids, EDM and DEDM are better‐transported compounds, and RCP and WZYB are moderate transport compounds. The data support the involvement for multidrug resistance‐associated proteins (MRPs) in the intestinal transcellular efflux of WZYB. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of Risk Factors for Catheter-Related Bacteremia in 2000 Permanent Dual Catheters for Hemodialysis

Background: Infection constitutes a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis (HD) patients. The type of vascular access is an important determinant of the risk of infection. Therefore, identification of risk factors leading to catheter-related bacteremia (CRB) is strongly required. The aim of this prospective large cohort study of HD patients using only catheters as vascular access was to isolate risk factors for CRB. Methods: 2,230 permanent silicone dual catheters implanted in 1,749 patients between November 1982 and November 2005 were studied. The following data were collected at the time of catheter implantation: presence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, atherosclerosis, immunodepression, Wright-Khan index, site and side of catheter insertion, and history of bacteremia. Results: The site of catheter insertion was internal jugular (n = 2,133), subclavian (n = 79) and femoral (n = 17). Duration of catheter use was as follows: 30–90 days (n = 1,607) and >90 days (n = 1,054); 226 episodes of bacteremia occurred in 197 catheters. Microorganisms responsible were mainly Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative staphylococci, Enterobacter spp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The overall incidence of bacteremic episodes was 0.514/1,000 catheter days. Hypertension, atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, site of catheter implantation, duration of catheter use, Wright-Khan comorbidity index and previous history of CRB were significant risk factors associated with bacteremia in univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis revealed that a previous history of a bacteremic episode (odds ratio, OR = 2.70, 95% confidence interval, CI = 1.56–4.68), diabetes mellitus (OR = 2.37, 95% CI = 1.65–3.39), duration of catheter use >90 days (OR = 1.85, 95% CI = 1.35–2.55) and hypertension (OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.08–2.04) were still significant factors associated with bacteremia. Conclusion: Reducing CRB is still a challenge for nephrologists to reduce patient morbidity and mortality. Our study could demonstrate that diabetes, previous history of CRB, site of catheter implantation and duration of catheter use were the most important risk factors for bacteremia. Therefore, to prevent CRB, particular attention should be paid to patients with diabetes and a previous history of bacteremia following strict hygienic and aseptic rules for catheter handling associated with the regular use of antiseptic lock solutions.
Validation of the Four-Dimensional Structure of Drinking Motives among Adults

Background: In the motivational model of alcohol use, there are two dimensions underlying the classification of drinking motives resulting in four drinking motive categories: enhancement, social, coping, and conformity motives. Methods: Using confirmatory factor analysis, the current study provides evidence on the best fitting factor structure in a large representative general population study among adults in the Netherlands (n = 2,440; two data waves separated by 3 months) using the DMQ-R (Drinking Motives Questionnaire Revised). Results: The four-factor structure had the best fit at both time points in comparison with any other solution. Test-retest reliabilities indicate individual motive change in level over time, but not in terms of the four-factor structure. Conclusion: The results replicate and extend previous findings among adolescents, in line with the motivational model of alcohol use, and suggest the utility of using the DMQ-R in future studies on adults’ drinking motives.
Tumor necrosis factor mediates temporomandibular joint bone tissue resorption in rheumatoid arthritis

Abstract Objective. To investigate if TNF, IL-1 or their endogenous controls, in relation to ACPA, are associated with radiological signs of ongoing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) bone tissue resorption and disc displacement in RA patients. Methods. Twenty-two consecutive outpatients with TMJ of RA were included. Systemic inflammatory activity was assessed by DAS28. The number of painful regions in the body and ESR, CRP, RF and ACPA were analyzed. TMJ synovial fluid and blood samples were obtained and analyzed for TNF, TNFsRII, IL-1ra, IL-1sRII and ACPA. The ratios between the mediators and their endogenous control receptors were used in the statistical analysis. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed in closed- and open-mouth positions and evaluated regarding disc position and presence of condylar and temporal erosions of the TMJ. Results. A high TNF level in relation to TNFsRII in TMJ synovial fluid correlated to the degree of TMJ condylar erosion. A high IL-1ra level in relation to TNF in TMJ synovial fluid was also correlated to the degree of TMJ condylar erosion. The total degree of TMJ condylar erosion was correlated with the number of painful regions. Conclusion. This study indicates that TNF in TMJ synovial fluid mediates TMJ cartilage and bone tissue resorption in RA. The study also suggests that the degree of endogenous cytokine control is of importance for development of bone tissue destruction.
Frequency characteristics of Levant's differentiator and adaptive sliding mode differentiator

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