Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Capsular Polysaccharide Types and Virulence-Related Traits of Epidemic KPC-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolates in a Chinese University Hospital.

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an important human pathogen associated with a variety of diseases and the prevalence of blaKPC carrying K. pneumoniae (KPC-Kp) is rapidly increasing. Capsule is an important virulence factor in K. pneumoniae. In this study, we determined to first systematically characterize capsular polysaccharide (CPS) and virulence traits in KPC-Kp strains. A total of 56 KPC-Kp isolates were recovered from clinical samples in a Chinese hospital, which were assigned to clonal lineages by multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Capsule typing (wzi sequencing and wzc polymerase chain reaction [PCR]) and virulence genes were characterized by molecular approaches. The virulence of these strains was determined by biofilm formation, serum killing resistance, phagocytosis, and infection models. Six different STs were found among 56 KPC-Kp isolates: 76.8% (43 of 56 isolates) belonged to ST11, 6 isolates belonged to ST147, 4 isolates belonged to ST15, 1 isolate belonged to ST1456, 1 isolate belonged to ST65, and 1 isolate was ST23. Based on the wzi gene DNA sequences and wzc PCR, these 56 strains were classified as capsular type wzi47-K47 (n = 37), wzi64-K64 (n = 8), wzi8-K8 (n = 4), wzi37-K37 (n = 4), wzi53-K53 (n = 1), wzi125-K2 (n = 1), and wzi1-K1 (n = 1). Heterogeneity was detected in biofilm formation and phagocytosis among different CPS types. ST11 strains were less virulent than other ST strains. KPC-Kp strains exhibit variability of virulence-associated traits. Differences were associated with the ST types and CPS.
Utilization of BRCA1/BRCA2 Mutation Testing in Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Patients

Background: Among newly diagnosed breast cancer patients who are at risk for carrying a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, knowledge of mutation status can influence local breast cancer treatment decisions. Thus, genetic testing at the time of diagnosis is increasingly considered an option for such patients. In this study, we evaluated factors associated with the decision to undergo BRCA1/BRCA2 gene testing at the time of initial breast cancer diagnosis. Methods: Participants were newly diagnosed breast cancer patients who had not yet received definitive local breast cancer treatment and who had a family history consistent with hereditary breast cancer. Participants were offered genetic counseling and BRCA1/BRCA2 testing with results in 2 to 3 weeks. Results: Of 231 patients who referred to the study, 20 (9%) declined the baseline interview, 34 (15%) completed a baseline interview but declined genetic testing, and 177 (76%) underwent BRCA1/BRCA2 testing. Physician recommendation for BRCA1/BRCA2 testing and indecision about definitive local treatment were both associated with undergoing testing. Among patients who were tested, 38 (21%) proceeded with definitive local treatment before receiving test results. Delay in the availability of test results and low levels of anxiety were associated with the decision to proceed with definitive local treatment before receiving test results. Conclusions: These results suggest that if rapid testing is available and genetic referrals are made for appropriate patients, a high proportion are likely to opt for such testing. In particular, patients who have not yet reached a decision about definitive local treatment may benefit from a genetic referral.
What is Media Psychology? A Qualitative Analysis

Media psychology is a new academic and applied discipline emerging in response to the proliferation of communication technologies in the last fifty years. While there is much interest in the field, there is little agreement in defining media psychology. In response to this situation, a research team formed in July 2007 to investigate the perceptions of media psychology and establish a working definition. As a starting point, the researchers began by surveying APA Division 46 for Media Psychology, whose members were pioneers in the field, and could help identify emerging trends in a historical perspective. This paper discusses the qualitative analysis of Division 46 member responses to the question: “What Comes to Mind When You Think of Media Psychology? ” and examines the Division 46 website to see if the website reflects the members’ responses. Using a grounded theory approach, analysis showed that member responses focused on the human factor over technology. The emerging themes revealed a dichotomy among members between two different views of media psychology: 1) psychologists who use media to disseminate psychology information, and 2) using psychology for the analysis of media use, development, and application. The differences in perceptions were correlated with the age of the respondents; older members were more likely to subscribe to the view of a psychologist or psychological material in the media and the younger demographic was more likely to see psychology as a tool for analysis and development. In comparing the Division 46 website analysis to the member responses, the content was more consistent with the view of older members. Media effects and impact was a frequent response, however the data left unanswered questions about the respondents’ perception of agency relative to media, i.e. whether individuals and society are perceived as victims of media’s influence or interactive participants. Both areas will be important for further study as they hold implications for areas such as education, healthcare, and public policy.
House of quality improvement by new design requirements generation

Integration voice of customer into new product development (NPD) process is an important factor that creates more customer satisfaction. Quality function deployment (QFD) is widely used to capture customer requirements (CRs) which are real by focusing on customers' needs. It helps organizations to translate CRs to the major design requirements (DRs) in such a way that they can develop better products which meet their customers' needs. In most of existing literature, traditional QFD discovers the needs of customers and fulfill them. Yet research and development team can improve QFD tool by adding need creation item so organizations can provide suitable products that cover customers' hidden needs and delight them. This paper presents a new approach that develops quality function deployment through the house of quality matrix expansion. The main innovative idea of the method is the extracting new design requirements (NDRs) without considering CRs in QFD. Analytic network process (ANP) is used to determine relations and correlations between QFD components. The Zero One Goal Programming (ZOGP) is employed in order to prioritize DRs and NDRs by considering additional factors such as manpower constraint, cost budget, extendibility and manufacturability level. Finally the effectiveness of proposed method is illustrated by provided case study.
Modification of pLL/DNA complexes with a multivalent hydrophilic polymer permits folate‐mediated targeting in vitro and prolonged plasma circulation in vivo

Gene delivery vectors based on poly(L‐lysine) and DNA (pLL/DNA complexes) have limited use for targeted systemic application in vivo since they bind cells and proteins non‐specifically. In this study we have attempted to form folate‐targeted vectors with extended systemic circulation by surface modification of pLL/DNA complexes with hydrophilic polymers.
Obstacles to Entrepreneurship Cause Unemployment - A Panel Data Analysis for Western Europe, Japan and the United States (1998-2003)

In this paper it is shown that barriers to entrepreneurship increase unemployment rate. This will be feasible by using panel data econometric analysis. Data are annual and cover Western European countries, Japan and the United States for the period 1998-2003. The elaboration of these data is made through the Eviews software package.
New imaging strategies for patient selection for thrombolytic and neuroprotective therapies

Article abstractIschemic stroke trials have traditionally sought to limit the range of disease studied according to several dimensions based on clinical examination and CT scan results. It has been proposed that the optimal sample for stroke trials would include a positive imaging diagnosis of a pathology rationally linked to the drug’s mechanisms of action and that this would improve the likelihood of positive results.This principle has been supported by the results of the Prolyse in Acute Cerebral Thromoembolism II (PROACT II) study. Whereas trials of iv thrombolysis between 3 and 6 hours after symptom onset in a general sample of patients were not positive, selection of a subgroup by angiography was an effective strategy in this time period for PROACT II. This study contradicted the hypothesis that treatment of stroke beyond 3 hours would not be successful.MRI with diffusion and perfusion has been an appealing imaging modality because it provides pretreatment angiography, perfusion, and lesion volume information during a brief, non-invasive assessment. Current literature supports the validity of MRI as a marker for clinical severity and clinical improvement. The diffusion–perfusion mismatch, the MRI marker for the ischemic penumbra, is a very strong predictor of lesion volume growth. Several acute trials in progress use a positive imaging diagnosis for the basis of selection. As the field of stroke clinical trials examines opportunities for improving trial design, positive imaging diagnoses in patient selection are likely to assume an increasingly useful role.
Automated histometry in quantitative prostate pathology.

OBJECTIVE To review progress on the development of machine vision and image understanding in prostate tissue histology and to discuss the problems and opportunities afforded to pathology through the use of these techniques. STUDY DESIGN A variety of concepts in machine vision are explored, and methodologies are described that have been developed to deal with the complexities of histologic imagery. The theory of human vision and its impact on machine vision are discussed. Software has been specifically developed for the analysis of prostate histology, allowing accurate gland segmentation, basal cell identification and measurement of vascularization within lesions. RESULTS Image interpretation can be achieved using knowledge-based image analysis and the application of local object-oriented processing. This successfully allows an automated quantitative analysis of histologic morphology in the diagnosis of prostate intraepithelial neoplasia and invasive prostatic cancer. The use of low-power image scanning, based on textural or n-gram mapping, permits the development of fully automated devices for the rapid detection of tissue abnormalities. High-power, knowledge-guided scene segmentation can be carried out for the quantitative analysis of cellular features and the objective grading of the lesion. CONCLUSION Automated tissue section scanning and image interpretation is now possible and holds much promise in prostate pathology and other diagnostically demanding areas. Issues of standardization still need to be addressed, but the development of such systems will undoubtedly enhance our diagnostic capabilities through the automation of time-consuming procedures and the quantitative evaluation of disease processes.
Positive airway pressure levels and pneumothorax: a case–control study in very low birth weight infants

Objectives. Evaluate the incidence of pneumothorax (PTx) and the levels of positive airway pressure (Paw) applied to very low birth weight infants during the first 5 days of life (DOL), after evidence-based protocols using early continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and high levels of Paw (CPAP or mean airway pressure) were implemented. Methods. From 2004 to 2007, all infants submitted to assisted ventilation that developed PTx were identified. Controls were matched by birth weight, gestational age, and type of ventilatory support. Paw levels were averaged on a time-weighted basis. A p value <0.05 was considered significant. Results. A total of 25 infants developed PTx (3.8%); 23 during the first 5 DOL. PTx was diagnosed at 14 h of life (1.3–80 h) when 74% were treated with mechanical ventilation. In controls, Paw decreased over time whereas in PTx infants it did not decline until after 80 h. PTx infants had an increase in Paw from 12 h up to 6 h prior to the diagnosis. Conclusion. The rate of PTx was low even after the implementation of the protocols. An association between Paw levels and PTx was observed but until the precise time of onset of a PTx can be determined this should be regarded either as an early signal or as an indicator of more severe lung disease.
Alginate genes are required for optimal soil colonization and persistence by Pseudomonas fluorescens Pf0-1

Pseudomonas fluorescens strains are important candidates for use as biological control agents to reduce fungal diseases on crop plants. To understand the ecological success of these bacteria and for successful and stable biological control, determination of how these bacteria colonize and persist in soil environments is critical. Here we show that P. fluorescens Pf0-1 is negatively impacted by reduced water availability in soil, but adapts and persists. A pilot transcriptomic study of Pf0-1 colonizing moist and dehydrated soil was used to identify candidate genetic loci, which could play a role in the adaptation to dehydration. Genes predicted to specify alginate production were identified and chosen for functional evaluation. Using deletion mutants, predicted alginate biosynthesis genes were shown to be important for optimal colonization of moist soil, and necessary for adaptation to reduced water availability in dried soil. Our findings extend in vitro studies of water stress into a more natural system and suggest alginate may be an essential extracellular product for the lifestyle of P. fluorescens when growing in soil.
Moderating Effects of Project Management Experience, Project Team Size, Project Duration and Project Value Size on the Relationship between Project Manager’s Leadership Roles and Project Team Effectiveness in Malaysia

Many organizations are using project teams to achieve their organizational goals because they believe the importance and benefits of project teams. Project managers are advised to learn and demonstrate the leadership roles as proposed by Quinn (1988) because these roles can improve the project team effectiveness. Moreover, it is important to select an experienced project manager leading an effective team at the same time negotiating for ample time to execute the project. The current study developed a research model underpinned on models related to Quinn (1988) leadership roles and Hoevemeyer (1993) five criteria of project team effectiveness as well as four demographic moderators i.e. project management experience, project team size, project duration and project value size. Based on a sample of 201 project managers, this empirical study had confirmed that a project manager’s leadership roles are positively influencing project team effectiveness. At the same time, only project management experience and project duration are positively moderating the relationship between leadership roles and project team effectiveness.
A Frequency Multiplication Resonant Inverter With Constant Frequency Phase Control

The schematic and analysis of a voltage-fed resonant inverter are presented in this paper. The topology of the inverter allows operation of the resonant tank at higher harmonics and multiples of the switching frequency. The resulting loss in voltage gain is compensated through the use of multiple commutation poles employing low-cost modestly rated MOSFETs. The proposed topology can control power throughput at a fixed frequency through pole phase-shift modulation. Zero voltage switching is maintained down to no load and within the entire input voltage range. Measurements from a multimegahertz 100-W inverter confirm the theoretical predictions, as well as the suggested design and control approach.
How well do current instruments using bereaved relatives’ views evaluate care for dying patients?

Background: Providing good quality of care for dying patients and their families has been highlighted as a national priority in the UK. Defining and measuring the quality of this care is therefore important. Using the views of patients has practical and ethical difficulties, so an alternative approach is to seek the views of bereaved relatives and close friends after the patients’ death. Aim: To identify and critically appraise instruments previously used with bereaved relatives to measure the quality of care for dying patients and the level of support provided to the family. Methods: A literature review was undertaken using Medline, Cinahl, Embase and AMED databases from 1985 to 2005. The search strategy was based on the following headings: quality of care, dying, assessment and relatives. Key criteria were set for the appraisal of each instrument. Results: Analysis of the 229 articles identified from the searches, yielded seven instruments used with bereaved relatives to assess the quality of ‘care for the dying’. Discussion: Each of these instruments was carefully constructed and all but one had clear documentation of validity and reliability measures. Two instruments used ‘satisfaction’ as an outcome measure, limiting their ability to discriminate between adequate and excellent care. Only one instrument was developed in the UK making it more ‘user-friendly’ for direct use in the UK. Conclusion: None of the instruments in their current format could comprehensively evaluate ‘care for the dying’ in the UK healthcare setting. We would propose to develop and validate a tool specifically assigned for this purpose.
Evidence that PI3K, Rac, Rho, and Rho kinase are involved in basic fibroblast growth factor‐stimulated fibroblast–Collagen matrix contraction

Fibroblast–collagen matrix contraction has been used as a model system to study how cells organize connective tissue. Previous work showed that lysophosphatidic acid (LPA)‐stimulated floating collagen matrix contraction is independent of Rho kinase while platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐stimulated contraction is Rho kinase‐dependent. The current studies were carried out to determine the signaling mechanisms of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)‐stimulated fibroblast–collagen matrix contraction. Both bFGF and LPA promoted equally collagen matrix contraction well. Three different inhibitors, LY294002 for phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase (PI3K), C3 exotransferase for Rho and Y27632 for Rho kinase, suppressed the bFGF‐stimulated fibroblast–collagen matrix contraction. With bFGF stimulation, fibroblasts spread with prominent stress fiber network formation and focal adhesions. In the presence of Rho kinase inhibitor, focal adhesions and stress fibers were mostly lost. We demonstrated that bFGF stimulation for fibroblast caused transient Rac and Rho activation but did not activate Cdc42. In addition, bFGF enhanced fibroblast migration in wound healing assay. The present study implicates PI3K, Rac, Rho, and Rho kinase as being involved in bFGF‐stimulated collagen matrix contraction. The elucidation of bFGF‐triggered signal transduction may be an important clue to understand the roles of bFGF in wound healing. J. Cell. Biochem. 102: 1290–1299, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Using Extended Kalman Filter and Adaptive Filter for sensorles predictive torque control of PM-Assissted Synchronous Reluctance Motor

The Permanent Magnet-Assissted Synchronous Reluctance Motor (PMA-SynRM) drive has become one of the most interesting replacements for the high efficiency variable speed drive. Herein, sensorless predictive torque control of a PMA-SynRM with non-sinusoidal back electromotive force (Back-EMF) is introduced. In order to control PMA-SynRM, finite control set-model predictive control (FCS-MPC) is implemented by means of a two-level inverter. Furthermore, an improved form of FCS-MPC, i.e., direct mean torque control (DMTC), is utilized as a second method to control PMA-SynRM. For improving the sensorless the combination of Extended Kalman Filter (EKF), Adaptive Filter (AF) and quadrature Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) are used for better estimation of the non-sinusoidal back EMF, elimination of the high order harmonics, and the accurate estimation of position and speed rotor, respectively. The simulation result in effectively minimizing torque ripples compared to conventional FCS-MPC. The outcomes of the observer simulation are successfully guaranteed the accurate estimation of speed and rotor position.
Healthy youth are reliable in reporting symptoms on a graded symptom scale.

CONTEXT Clinicians often rely on the self-report symptoms of patients in making clinical decisions; hence it is important that these scales be reliable. OBJECTIVE To determine the test-retest reliability of healthy youth in completing a graded symptom scale (GSS), modified from the Head Injury Scale Self-Report Concussion Symptoms Scale (HIS). DESIGN Repeated-measures. SETTING Middle school classroom. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS 126 middle school students. INTERVENTION A survey consisting of a demographic and life events questionnaire and a GSS asking about symptom severity and duration. MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURES Score for each symptom on the severity and duration scale and a total symptom score (TSS) and the total number of symptoms endorsed (TSE) from the severity scale. Responses on a life events questionnaire were also recorded. RESULTS We found excellent reliability for TSS (ICC=.93) and TSE (ICC=.88) for the severity scale. We found moderate to excellent reliability on the individual symptoms of both the severity (ICC=.65-.89) and duration (ICC=56-.96) scales. CONCLUSIONS Healthy youth can reliably self-report symptoms using a GSS. This patient-oriented outcome measure should be incorporated into more investigations in this age group.