Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Multiple maltreatment, attribution of blame, and adjustment among adolescents

The study examined the predictive utility of blame attributions for maltreatment. Integrating theory and research on blame attribution, it was predicted that self-blame would mediate or moderate internalizing problems, whereas other-blame would mediate or moderate externalizing problems. Mediator and moderator models were tested separately. Adolescents (N = 160, ages 11–17 years) were randomly selected from the open caseload of a child protection agency. Participants made global maltreatment severity ratings for each of physical abuse, psychological abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and exposure to family violence. Participants also completed the Attribution for Maltreatment Interview (AFMI), a structured clinical interview that assessed self- and perpetrator blame for each type of maltreatment they experienced. The AFMI yielded five subscales: self-blaming cognition, self-blaming affect, self-excusing, perpetrator blame, and perpetrator excusing. Caretaker-reported (Child Behavior Checklist) and self-reported (Youth Self Report) internalizing and externalizing were the adjustment criteria. Controlling for maltreatment severity, the AFMI subscales explained significant variance in self-reported adjustment. Self-blaming affect was the most potent attribution, particularly among females. Attributions mediated maltreatment severity for self-reported adjustment but moderated it for caretaker-reported adjustment. The sophistication and relevance of blame attributions to adjustment are discussed, and implications for research and clinical practice are identified.
A simple real-time QRS detection algorithm utilizing curve-length concept with combined adaptive threshold for electrocardiogram signal classification

QRS detection is a standard procedure in electrocardiogram (ECG) signal classification and analysis. Although there is a large number of methods published, some featuring high accuracy, the problem remains open. This is especially true with respect to high accuracy QRS detection in noisy ECGs such as long-term Holter monitoring during normal daily activity. In this paper a robust real-time QRS detector for noisy applications is proposed. It exploits a modified curve-length concept with combined adaptive threshold derived by basic mean, standard deviation and average peak-to-peak interval. The method was tested using the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database with an observed detection accuracy of 99.70%, sensitivity of 99.86%, positive prediction of 99.84%, and an average failed detection of 0.30%. The proposed approach compares favourably with published results for other QRS detectors, and proves superior to those having constant and manually entered threshold parameters.
Condition dependence of sexually dimorphic colouration and longevity in the ambush bug Phymata americana

Sexually selected traits that are costly are predicted to be more condition dependent than nonsexually selected traits. Assuming resource limitation, increased allocation to a sexually selected trait may also come at a cost to other fitness components. To test these predictions, we varied adult food ration to manipulate condition in the colour dimorphic bug, Phymata americana. We compared the degree of condition dependence in a sexually selected trait expressed in males to a nonsexually selected trait expressed in males and females. We also evaluated the effects of condition on longevity of both sexes. We found that the expression of these colour pattern traits was strongly influenced by both diet and age. As expected, the strength of condition dependence was much more pronounced in the sexually selected, male‐limited trait but the nonsexual trait also exhibited significant condition dependence in both sexes. The sexually selected male trait also exhibited a higher coefficient of phenotypic variation than the nonsexually selected trait in males and females. Diet had contrasting effects on male and female longevity; increased food availability had positive effects on female lifespan but these effects were not detected in males, suggesting that males allocated limited resources preferentially to sexually selected traits. These results are consistent with the expectation that optimal allocation to various fitness components differs between the sexes.
What next for unions in Central and Eastern Europe? Invisibility, departure and the transformation of industrial relations

This article examines union revitalization in Central and Eastern Europe, focusing on two countries: Hungary and Latvia. Trade unions have not only had to cope with a declining membership base, but have also had to respond to austerity programmes and government cuts in public sector employment. We argue that the inability of unions to provide a strong voice for alternative policies to the current neoliberal orthodoxy has been driven by a declining membership base, but also by weakened social dialogue mechanisms, limited industrial representation and an ageing membership profile, exacerbated by net outward migration in recent years. However, we find that unions in Latvia and Hungary have responded differently to these issues.
Effectiveness of photodynamic therapy for the inactivation of Candida spp. on dentures: in vitro study.

OBJECTIVE This in vitro study evaluated the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy (PDT) for the inactivation of different species of Candida on maxillary complete dentures. BACKGROUND DATA The treatment of denture stomatitis requires the inactivation of Candida spp. on dentures. PDT has been reported as an effective method for Candida inactivation. METHODS Reference strains of C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. dubliniensis and C. krusei were tested. Thirty-four dentures were fabricated in a standardized procedure and subjected to ethylene oxide sterilization. The dentures were individually inoculated with one of the strains and incubated at 37°C for 24 h. Dentures submitted to PDT (P+L+) were individually sprayed with 50 mg/L of Photogem(®) (PS) and, after 30 min, illuminated by LED light for 26 min (37.5 J/cm(2)). Additional dentures were treated only with PS (P+L-) or light (P-L+) or neither (P-L-). Samples of serial dilutions were spread on Sabouraud dextrose agar and incubated at 37°C for 48 h. The colonies were counted and the values of log (cfu/mL) were analyzed by Kruskall-Wallis and Dunn tests (p<0.05). RESULTS For all species of Candida, PDT resulted in significant reduction (p<0.05) of cfu/mL values from dentures when compared with P-L- (reductions from 1.73 to 3.99 log(10)). Significant differences (p<0.05), but lower reductions, were also observed for P+L- and P-L+when compared with P-L- for some species of Candida. CONCLUSIONS PDT was an effective method for reducing Candida spp. on dentures.
Respiratory and Cognitive Subtypes of Panic

A review of the panic disorder literature strongly suggests subtypes of panic attacks, including a respiratory subtype. This study empirically tested several aspects of Ley’s panic subtype theory, measuring end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) levels at baseline, during psychologic and respiratory stressors, and at recovery.As predicted, Type 1 (classic or respiratory) panickers had significantly lower resting ETCO2 compared to Type 3 (cognitive) and to controls. Type 3 panickers did not differ from controls. Physiologic findings support the existence of respiratory and other subtypes of panic attacks in panic disorder. More complex measures of respiration and other physiology are likely required to elicit full subtype profiles. Distinguishing between chronic (compensated) hyperventilators and acute hyperventilators will likely be useful in clarifying the subtypes. Recognizing the need for differential diagnosis of panic attacks can facilitate developing more specific treatment plans and interventions (e.g., restoration of normal ETCO2 in Type 1), improving treatment success rates.
Savings and Economic Growth in Botswana: An Analysis Using Bounds Testing Approach to Cointegration

Economic growth boosted by high domestic savings has been advocated for by numerous economists throughout the years. For a country like Botswana where the savings- GDP ratio is relatively high, it becomes important to determine whether savings is indeed important for the economy. This paper reexamines the savings-growth debate for the Botswana economy by applying the Bounds testing approach to cointegration analysis to establish the relationship between domestic savings and economic growth in Botswana. The results indicate that domestic savings is significantly positively related to growth in Botswana. The study recommends the need for development of financial instruments to encourage domestic savings.
Continuous Wound Infiltration with Ropivacaine Reduces Pain and Analgesic Requirement After Shoulder Surgery

After achieving a reduction of pain scores for 10 h with a single dose wound infiltration after shoulder surgery, we examined in a prospective, placebo-controlled and double-blinded study the analgesic effects of continuous wound infiltration with different concentrations of ropivacaine. Forty-five patients undergoing shoulder surgery were randomly assigned into three groups to receive single dose wound infiltration with 30 mL saline (group S) or ropivacaine 7.5 mg/mL (groups R2 and R3.75) after skin closure. Postoperatively, patients received a continuous wound infiltration with saline (group S), ropivacaine 2 mg/mL (group R2) or ropivacaine 3.75 mg/mL (group R3.75) for 48 h. Supplemental pain relief was provided by IV patient-controlled analgesia with the opioid piritramide. At 1, 2, 3, 4, 24, and 48 h postoperatively visual analogue scale (VAS) values (0–100 mm), piritramide requirements and side effects were registered. Plasma levels of ropivacaine were measured preoperatively and at 24 h and 48 h after surgery. Until 48 h VAS values were smaller in group R3.75 compared with group S (group R3.75, 8 ± 9 mm; group S, 31 ± 14 mm; P < 0.005), whereas 4 h and 48 h postoperatively VAS values were even smaller in group R3.75 compared with group R2 (P < 0.05). Cumulative piritramide consumption was always smaller in groups R2 and R3.75 compared with group S (1–24 h, P < 0.005; 48 h, P < 0.05). Plasma ropivacaine levels remained less than the toxic threshold. We conclude that continuous postoperative wound infiltration with ropivacaine, especially using 3.75 mg/mL, provides smaller VAS values and opioid requirement in comparison with saline after shoulder surgery.
Myc Antagonizes Ras-mediated Growth Arrest in Leukemia Cells through the Inhibition of the Ras-ERK-p21Cip1 Pathway*

Even though RAS usually acts as a dominant transforming oncogene, in primary fibroblasts and some established cell lines Ras inhibits proliferation. This can explain the virtual absence of RAS mutations in some types of tumors, such as chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). We report that in the CML cell line K562 Ras induces p21Cip1 expression through the Raf-MEK-ERK pathway. Because K562 cells are deficient for p15INK4b, p16INK4a, p14ARF, and p53, this would be the main mechanism whereby Ras up-regulates p21 expression in these cells. Accordingly, we also found that Ras suppresses K562 growth by signaling through the Raf-ERK pathway. Because c-Myc and Ras cooperate in cell transformation and c-Myc is up-regulated in CML, we investigated the effect of c-Myc on Ras activity in K562 cells. c-Myc antagonized the induction of p21Cip1 mediated by oncogenic H-, K-, and N-Ras and by constitutively activated Raf and ERK2. Activation of the p21Cip1 promoter by Ras was dependent on Sp1/3 binding sites in K562. However, mutational analysis of the p21 promoter and the use of a Gal4-Sp1 chimeric protein strongly suggest that c-Myc affects Sp1 transcriptional activity but not the binding of Sp1 to the p21 promoter. c-Myc-mediated impairment of Ras activity on p21 expression required a transactivation domain, a DNA binding region, and a Max binding region. Moreover, the effect was independent of Miz1 binding to c-Myc. Consistent with its effect on p21Cip1 expression, c-Myc rescued cell growth inhibition induced by Ras. The data suggest that in particular tumor types, such as those associated with CML, c-Myc contributes to tumorigenesis by inhibiting Ras antiproliferative activity.
Endothelin-1 levels in induced sputum samples from asthmatic and normal subjects.

BACKGROUND: Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a potent bronchoconstrictor which may have a role in the pathogenesis of asthma. The levels of ET-1 in saliva, induced sputum, and plasma from asthmatic and non-asthmatic subjects were compared. METHODS: Sputum induction was performed on 28 asthmatic subjects and nine normal volunteers. ET-1 levels were measured in plasma, saliva, and sputum samples and reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) was performed on saliva and sputum samples. RESULTS: ET-1 was present in the following order of concentration in both normal and asthmatic subjects: saliva > sputum > plasma (saliva, median 30.1 and 23.9 pg/ ml, respectively; sputum, median 15.5 and 11.2 pg/ml; plasma, median 3.1 and 3.6 pg/ ml). There were no differences between asthmatic and normal subjects in the levels of ET-1 in each fluid. The levels of ET-1 in asthmatic subjects were not influenced by whether or not they were taking inhaled steroids. RP-HPLC of sputum and saliva confirmed the presence of ET-1 in these fluids. CONCLUSIONS: Levels of ET-1 can be measured in saliva and sputum obtained by sputum induction in asthmatic and healthy subjects and, although no difference was found in basal levels of ET-1 in sputum, saliva and plasma between normal subjects and asthmatics without bronchoconstriction, it is apparent that ET-1 is produced or released locally within the respiratory tract in concentrations higher than those in plasma.
Right-Angled Microcoaxial Bends for Si-Based RF/Microwave Integrated Circuits

This paper presents the detailed design, fabrication, and measurement of right-angled microcoaxial bends for silicon (Si)-based radio frequency and microwave integrated circuits. The design of the right-angled microcoaxial bends is performed using the high-frequency structural simulator and the trained artificial neural networks (ANNs) models. The ANN models enable fast and accurate design of microcoaxial bends to achieve desired impedance. The right-angled straight and curved microcoaxial bends are fabricated by a multilayer copper (Cu) Damescene process, which has a low thermal budget and is fully compatible with a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor back-end-of-line process. Insertion loss less than 0.04 dB at frequency from 0.1 to 40 GHz is realized for both straight and curved bends. The measured return loss is less than -20 dB at frequency from 0.1 to 40 GHz for both microcoaxial bends. The impedance for both microcoaxial bends is well matched to 50 Ω. Besides the low loss and the high impedance matching, the microcoaxial bends also show other advanced characteristics, including high-quality factors (Q-factors) as well as supporting pure transverse electromagnetic mode. The use of high-performance bends allows us to fold microcoaxial passive components to meander structures for miniaturization while maintain low loss and perfectly matched impedance.
Dependency of antibody titer on provirus load in human T lymphotropic virus type I carriers: an interpretation for the minor population of seronegative carriers.

To evaluate the prevalence of seronegative carriers of human T lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I), buffy coat samples from 1015 Okinawan high school students were tested by immunoassays and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Among 17 HTLV-I carriers, 1 person who was seronegative and 1 who was PCR-negative were identified. gag and tax/rex PCR titers correlated with each other (r = .92; P < .001). Of the 17 carriers, 14 (82%) had high virus loads (geometric averages, 522 gag and 703 tax/rex copies/micrograms of DNA; 95% confidence intervals, 38-7260 and 75-6594, respectively). Carriers with low virus loads had < or = 2.2 gag copies. In the high-virus-load group, the gag PCR titers correlated with the antibody titers (r = 0.88; P < .001). The regression line intersected the minimum antibody detection level at 35 gag copies/micrograms of DNA. These results suggest that a small percentage of carriers may be seronegative.
Effect of delay between erasure and image acquisition in CR.

OBJECTIVE The effect of time delay between last erasure and image acquisition using computed radiography (CR) image plates (IPs) was investigated using an Agfa ADC Compact CR system. METHOD IPs of various sizes were erased by the IP processing cycle of the CR system. These IPs then were stored in their normal storage place for various durations, ranging from 0 hours to 168 hours. The IPs then were processed, and dark noise images were obtained. The dark noise in each plate was estimated by measuring the average pixel value in several places on the image. Statistical analysis was carried out using 1-way analysis of variance and Kruskal-Wallis testing for any significant differences in dark noise between time delays at P = . 05. Regression analysis was carried out to test any relationship between dark noise and time delay. RESULTS Statistically significant (P < .05) increases in dark current were observed when the time delay increased, with increase greater than 40% for time delays more than 24 hours. In the short term (< 1 hour), a quadratic relationship was observed, and in the long term (> 24 hours) a linear relationship was observed between dark current and time delay. CONCLUSION Dark noise increases with time delay, and it is useful to erase the IP before image acquisition if time delays of more than 24 hours are experienced, such as over a weekend.
Vertical Mirror Fabrication Combining KOH Etch and DRIE of (110) Silicon

This paper presents fabrication of MEMS-actuated optical-quality vertical mirrors as the key active optical components in a silicon optical bench (SOB) technology. The fabrication process is based on a combination of potassium hydroxide (KOH) etch and deep reactive ion etching (DRIE) of (110) SOI wafers. The process starts by creating optical-quality vertical surfaces by KOH etch, followed by an oxidation step to protect them. The patterned wafer is then etched by DRIE to define actuators. The process is designed to allow the KOH etch and DRIE to be independently optimized without compromising either while at the same time meeting the challenge of lithography on high-aspect-ratio structures. Three variations of the fabrication process are demonstrated, two that use double masking layers and one that uses a silicon masking layer. We demonstrate in-plane scanners and fast translational vertical mirrors fabricated using these processes. In addition, we propose extensions of the fabrication process to account for DRIE aspect-ratio limitations. Mask layouts of key SOB building blocks, including vertical mirrors, beam splitters, and parallel-plate actuators, are also presented. [2008-0146]
Effects of Loading Frequency on Mechanically Induced Bone Formation

The anabolic effect of mechanical loading on bone tissue is modulated by loading frequency. The objective of this study was to characterize the new bone formation on the periosteal and endocortical surfaces of the ulnar diaphysis in adult, female rats in response to controlled dynamic loading and to examine the interactions between strain magnitude, loading frequency, and bone formation rate (BFR/BS) for frequencies ranging from 1 to 10 Hz. Cyclic, compressive loading was applied to the ulnas of 60 adult, female rats divided into 12 loading groups. Loading was applied for 360 cycles/day with peak loads ranging from 4.3 to 18N at frequencies of 1, 5, and 10 Hz. After 2 weeks of loading, bone formation on the periosteal and endocortical surfaces of the ulna was quantified using double‐label histomorphometry on transverse sections obtained at the middiaphysis. Periosteal bone formation increased in a dose‐response manner with peak load at each of the three loading frequencies tested. Loading frequency significantly affected the x intercepts and slopes of the peak strain versus BFR/BS (p < 0.001) and peak strain versus mineralizing surface (MS/BS; p < 0.001) curves. Periosteal osteogenesis was best predicted by a mathematical model that assumed: (1) bone cells are activated by fluid shear stresses and (2) that stiffness of the bone cells and the extracellular matrix near the cells increases at higher loading frequencies because of viscoelasticity. Consequently, mechanotransduction appears to involve a complex interaction between extracellular fluid forces and cellular mechanics.
Anatomic Lateral Ligament Reconstruction in the Ankle

Background: Anatomic and checkrein tenodesis reconstruction techniques have been described as a means of treatment for chronic lateral ligament instability in the ankle. The current article describes a hybrid procedure using the most advantageous concepts of both techniques for use when insufficient normal ligament remains to fashion a direct repair of the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL). Purpose: The authors report the results at a minimum 1-year follow-up of 57 patients who underwent a hybrid anatomic lateral ligament reconstruction technique in the ankle. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Fifty-seven patients underwent a hybrid anatomic lateral ligament reconstruction procedure under the care of the senior author. All patients were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively using the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and Short Form–12 (SF-12) outcome score. The mean patient age at the time of surgery was 28 years (range, 17-65 years), including 39 male and 18 female patients. The mean follow-up time was 32 months (range, 12-47 months). Results: The FAOS improved from 58 points preoperatively to 89 points postoperatively (P < .01). The SF-12 score improved from 48 points before surgery to 80 points at final follow-up (P < .01). All patients achieved mechanical stability at final clinical follow-up; 7 patients (12%) demonstrated functional instability. Functional instability was found to significantly influence not returning to sport at the previous level. Conclusion: This hybrid anatomic lateral ligament reconstruction technique using a peroneus longus autograft to substitute the native ATFL provides an alternative to anatomic reconstruction when direct repair is not possible.
Problematizing Evidence-Based Design: A Case Study of Designing for Services in the Finnish Government

The increasing complexity of design problems and degree of innovation required of design solutions today has led many authors to claim that decision making in design should be based on strong scientific evidence. However, current models of evidence-based practice are too simplistic for design since they tend to focus only on evidence strength. We investigate the role of evidence in service design through analysing a case study of creating a service design solution to improve immigration services in the Finnish public sector. By using a conceptual framework that emphasises the impact of different kinds of evidence on knowledge as justified true belief, we illustrate some of the different roles that evidence can play within the design process. The insights from the study indicate that relevant evidence is more useful than strong evidence during the early phases of the design process.