Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Oxidative status and paraoxonase activity in children with asthma.

OBJECTIVE To compare paraoxonase activity and changes in oxidative status in asthmatic children and healthy children by determining serum paraoxonase activity and total oxidative status, total antioxidant capacity and lipid hydroperoxidation. METHODS Forty two asthmatic children were compared with 32 healthy children of similar age and sex. To evaluate the paraoxonase and oxidative status, total antioxidant capacity and lipid hydroperoxidation were examined. Serum paraoxonase activity was evaluated by measuring the rate of paraoxon hydrolosis. Oxidative status was evaluated by the method developed by Erel. Lipid hydroperoxide was measured by an iodometric method. RESULTS In comparison with the healthy control group, the paraoxonase activity of the asthmatic children was found to be low (163.7 +/- 73.0 (U/L) and 349.2 +/- 153.9 (U/L), P = 0.002) and total oxidant status (9.0 +/- 3.5 micromol H2O2 Eq/L and 13.4 +/- 7.0 micromol H2O2 Eq/L, P =0.002), total antioxidant capacity (5.5 +/- 2.5 micromol Trolox Eq/L and 1.0 +/- 0.6 micromol Trolox Eq/L, P < 0.001), and lipid hydroperoxidation values (9.9 +/- 3.4 micromol H2O2 Eq/L and 4.4 +/- 1.5 micromol H2O2 Eq/L, P < 0.001) were found to be high. The high density lipoprotein (HDL) concentration of the asthmatic children was lower than that in the control group (40.1 +/- 9.2 mg/dl and 54.5 +/- 15.9 mg/dl, P < 0.001) CONCLUSION In asthmatic children, when total oxidant status, total antioxidant capacity and lipid hydroperoxidation levels increase, paraoxonase activity decreased.
Synthesis of a Magneto-Rheological vehicle suspension system built on the variable structure control approach

The synthesis of a magneto-rheological vehicle suspension system built on the variable structure control approach is considered in the present work. The suspension is synthesized in order to improve the ride comfort obtained by a standard passive suspension. Although a nominal half-vehicle model with rigid body is considered in the synthesis of the suspension, phenomenological models for the MR dampers and for the seat-driver subsystem, along with the flexibility of the vehicle body, are considered in the performance assessment. For comparison purposes, active and magneto-rheological suspensions built on the optimal control approach and an active suspension built on the variable structure control approach are also considered. The numerical results show that the proposed suspension outperforms the passive suspension and presents a performance comparable to that of the active ones when the vehicle body may be assumed as rigid. Besides, when its flexibility is an important issue, a great performance drop may be observed, depending on the road quality, the damper characteristics and the adopted control strategy.
Disability and quality of life in individuals with postpolio syndrome

Purpose : The purpose of the study is to investigate disability and quality of life in individuals with the characteristic symptoms of postpolio syndrome. Method : Disability is assessed by means of the self-report activities of daily living instrument, and quality of life by means of Kaasa's questionnaire and the quality of life profile. Results : The 39 subjects have on average lived with polio sequelae for 52 years. Their main difficulties are with moving, lifting and carrying. This means restricted mobility, sedentary activities and a need to prioritize. Half of them feel that polio has lessened their possibilities in life, and a quarter have still not accepted the limitations polio has involved. Nevertheless the majority report a high level of psychosocial well-being, and almost a quarter say that living with polio has meant personal development and strength. We found a significant correlation between on the one hand disability with regard to ambulation, arm strength and finger strength on the self-report ADL, and on the other hand the number of negative problems on the quality of life profile (0.33-0.45). Conclusion : The latter instrument needs further testing before its validity can be determined with certainty.
A Double-Blind Comparison of Zimelidine and Amitriptyline in Depressive Out-Patients

A double-blind, randomized clinical study was conducted in thirty-four outpatients suffering from major depressive disorders comparing zimelidine with amitriptyline. The dosage was flexible, maintenance doses varying between 50–150 mg in the amitriptyline group and 50–300 mg in the zimelidine group. After a wash-out period of at least a week the mean score in Hamilton Rating Scale for depression (HRS) was 22·2 for zimelidine and 21·9 for amitriptyline. During the treatment period of 6 weeks, zimelidine and amitriptyline appeared to be equally effective as antidepressants in HRS and Global Ratings. The zimelidine group showed significantly less somnolence and dry mouth. No clinically important changes were seen in the laboratory parameters during the study.
Clutter rejection techniques for microwave head imaging

Microwave head imaging is a promising technique for brain injury detection. In that technique, electromagnetic waves are sent into the head by an antenna array surrounding the head and the scattered signals are processed to form an image for brain injury detection purposes. Strong wave reflections from the outer layers of the head and their overlapping with target's signals can cause a strong clutter in the received signal. This clutter can adversely affect the accuracy of reconstructed image by masking the target response. To that end, different clutter removal techniques, including average subtraction, differential approach, spatial filtering, and entropy-based filtering are investigated in this paper. Those methods are tested in a simulation environment with a realistic head model surrounded by an 8-element antenna array. The obtained results are assessed by performance metrics to compare the ability of the investigated methods in cancelling the clutter from the received signals of microwave head imaging system.
Classification of Multi-User Chirp Modulation Signals Using Wavelet Higher-Order-Statistics Features and Artificial Intelligence Techniques

Higher order statistical features have been recently proved to be very efficient in the classification of wideband communications and radar signals with great accuracy. On the other hand, the denoising properties of the wavelet transform make WT an efficient signal processing tool in noisy environments. A novel technique for the classification of multi-user chirp modulation signals is presented in this paper. A combination of the higher order moments and cumulants of the wavelet coefficients as well as the peaks of the bispectrum and its bi-frequencies are proposed as effective features. Different types of artificial intelligence based classifiers and clustering techniques are used to identify the chirp signals of the different users. In particular, neural networks (NN), maximum likelihood (ML), k-nearest neighbor (KNN) and support vector machine (SVMs) classifiers as well as fuzzy c-means (FCM) and fuzzy k-means (FKM) clustering techniques are tested. The Simulation results show that the proposed technique is able to efficiently classify the different chirp signals in additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channels with high accuracy. It is shown that the NN classifier outperforms other classifiers. Also, the simulations prove that the classification based on features extracted from wavelet transform results in more accurate results than that using features directly extracted from the chirp signals, especially at low values of signal-to-noise ratios.
Structure-Function Relationships in a Type I Antifreeze Polypeptide

Several analogs of an alanine-rich, α-helical type I antifreeze polypeptide from the winter flounder were synthesized and studied to evaluate the role of threonine residues on antifreeze activity. In this series, the four Thr residues in the wild type polypeptide were substituted with from one to four Ser, allo-Thr, or Val residues. Circular dichroism studies determined that these substitutions did not significantly diminish α-helicity. Thermal hysteresis data showed that substitution of Thr by Ser resulted in moderate to complete loss of antifreeze activity, depending on the number and position of the substituted Thr residue(s). Replacement by Val, in confirmation of other recent reports, or by allo-Thr had a much less detrimental effect on activity though there were qualitative differences in activity between the mutants and the wild type AFP. Based on these results, we propose that both the methyl and hydroxyl groups of Thr, particularly of the central two Thr residues, Thr13 and Thr24, play key roles in the ice-binding properties of the antifreeze peptide. Specifically, the methyls participate in hydrophobic interactions with ice, which provide the driving force for binding and stability, whereas the hydroxyls and other polar residues control binding specificity and impart additional stability through hydrogen bonding.
Decentralized control strategy for input-series-output-parallel modular LLC resonant DC/DC converters

This paper presents an input-series-output-parallel LLC resonant converter suitable for high input voltage applications. A decentralized control strategy is proposed and analyzed so that each module is self-contained, thus improving the flexibility and reliability. The power sharing including input voltage sharing and output current sharing can be achieved only by sensing the output voltage and current of each module. A 1.25kW two-module experimental prototype with 600V input 50V output is fabricated to verify the configuration and the control strategy. An efficiency of 96% is obtained without optimization.
A new methodology to the design of associative memories based on cellular neural networks

We consider the problem of realizing associative memories via cellular neural networks (CNNs). We formulate the synthesis of CNN that can store given binary vectors with improved performance as a constrained optimization problem. Next, we convert the synthesis problem into a generalized eigenvalue problem, which can be efficiently solved by recently developed interior point methods. The validity of the proposed approach is illustrated by computer simulations.
Predictive factors improving survival after gastric and hepatic surgical treatment in gastric cancer patients with synchronous liver metastases.

BACKGROUND The prognosis for patients with gastric cancer and synchronous liver metastases is very poor. However, a standard therapeutic strategy has not been well established. The clinical benefit and prognostic factors after hepatic surgical treatment for liver metastases from gastric cancer remain controversial. METHODS Records of 105 patients who underwent gastrectomy regardless of hepatic surgical treatment for gastric cancer with synchronous liver-only metastases in our center between 1995 and 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS The overall survival rate for the 105 patients was 42.1%, 17.2%, and 10.6% at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively, with a median survival time of 11 months. Multivariate survival analysis revealed that the extent of lymphadenectomy (D) (P < 0.001), lymph node metastases (P < 0.001), extent of liver metastases (H) (P = 0.008), and lymphovascular invasion (P = 0.002) were significant independent prognostic factors for survival. Among patients who underwent D2 lymphadenectomy, those who underwent hepatic surgical treatment had a significantly improved survival compared with those who underwent gastrectomy alone (median survival, 24 vs. 12 months; P < 0.001). However, hepatic surgical treatment was not a prognostic factor for patients who underwent D1 lymphadenectomy (median survival, 8 vs. 8 months; P = 0.495). For the 35 patients who underwent gastrectomy plus hepatic surgical treatment, D2 lymphadenectomy (P < 0.001), lymph node metastases (P = 0.015), and extent of liver metastases (H1 vs. H2 and H3) (P = 0.017) were independent significant prognostic factors for survival. CONCLUSIONS D2 lymphadenectomy plus hepatic surgical treatment may provide hope for long-term survival of judiciously selected patients with hepatic metastases from gastric cancer. Patients with a low degree of lymph node metastases and H1 liver metastases would make the most appropriate candidates. However, if D2 dissection cannot be achieved, hepatic surgical treatment is not recommended.
Human media technology-the human-centered, sustainable technology development

The development of the Internet, the Web, and Java let us believe that computing technology seems to become an integral part of our daily environment that hopefully supports us in improving the quality of life. But what does this mean to the future of information technology development? This paper presents visions towards sustainable, human-centered technology developments. New trends in human computer interaction and human information interaction are necessary for enabling even the naive user to communicate and interact with computers. What we need is a paradigm shift from the conventional information technology towards a human media technology which focus on the interaction manner between human beings and information space or amongst human beings through information space.
Hyperoxia improves microvascular perfusion in a murine wound model

There is a need for a noninvasive method that measures wound angiogenesis. Hyperoxia is known to increase the appearance of new blood vessels in wounds, yet no study has confirmed increases in wound bed perfusion with periodic hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) exposure. This study investigates whether laser Doppler imaging is able to detect and quantify the enhancement of wound angiogenesis that is known to occur with intermittent HBO treatments. Full‐thickness dorsal dermal wounds were created on mice randomized to hyperoxic (n = 14) and control (n = 15) groups. Hyperbaric oxygen was administered twice daily for 90 minutes each at 2.1 atmospheres for 7 days. Wound bed perfusion was measured by laser Doppler imaging on days 0, 7, and 10 postwounding. Wound blood flow increased significantly over baseline on day 7 and 10 in the hyperoxic group, but only on day 10 in the control group. Comparison between groups showed a 20% statistically significant increase in wound perfusion in HBO‐treated animals compared to control on day 10 (p = 0.05). Laser Doppler imaging was able to detect and quantify the increase in wound bed perfusion resulting from intermittent HBO treatments and shows promise as a noninvasive measure of angiogenesis and wound healing.
Smoking and Attitudes on Smoke-Free Air Laws Among Club-Going Young Adults

This report assesses smoking rates and support for indoor smoking bans among club-going young adults in New York City. Nearly half of the sample were smokers. Gay, lesbian, and bisexual young adults were more likely to smoke than were heterosexual participants. No differences in smoking rates were found between sexes or between Whites and non-Whites. Support for the smoking ban exists among young adults (68.6%). This is universal, as no differences in support for the ban were found by sex, race, or sexual identity. Smokers supported the ban (57.8%) less than nonsmokers did (77.3%). Yet, it remains notable that a majority support the smoking ban among smokers.
A Case Study Approach to Reducing the Risks of Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)

ABSTRACT The risk of child sexual exploitation is a growing concern, both within community and child care settings. Within community services working with vulnerable young people, the risks of exploitation are pervasive and present a constant management problem for professionals. This makes the need for focused educational interventions within such settings all the more vital. This case study aims to describe the assessment, formulation, intervention, and outcomes of a young female considered to be at risk of sexual exploitation. It was hypothesised that, after completion of a psychoeducational group designed to enhance knowledge and skills around child sexual exploitation, positive outcomes would be seen in psychometric assessment, risk-taking behavior, and risk awareness. Results demonstrated no clinically significant change for measures of impulsivity, resourcefulness, or self-reported difficulties. A significant increase was seen for self-reported self-esteem, and all outcomes revealed a positive direction of change. Observational accounts of behavioral and attitudinal change produced more positive results, revealing an increase in prosocial behaviors and a reduction in risk-taking behaviors. Outcomes are discussed in relation to the individual’s history and the residential care environment. Implications for future research and practice are outlined, and the study limitations are considered.
Selective Thoracic Fusion in Lenke 1C Curves: Prevalence and Criteria

Study Design. Multicenter retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data. Objective. Evaluate radiographical and clinical characteristics of patients undergoing a selective thoracic fusion (STF) for Lenke 1C curves. Summary of Background Data. STF of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis has been advocated for the so-called “false double major” curve (Lenke 1C/King type II). Despite these recommendations, many surgeons continue to perform nonselective fusions for this curve type. It is unknown to what extent other factors influence the surgeon's fusion-level selection. Methods. A prospective multicenter database included 264 patients with surgically treated Lenke 1C curves and were divided into 2 groups. The STF group included patients with the lowest instrumented vertebra at or cephalad to L1, whereas the nonselective fusion group included patients with the lowest instrumented vertebra at or caudal to L3. Preoperative radiographical, clinical (scoliometer), Scoliosis Appearance Questionnaire (SAQ), and Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) questionnaires were analyzed and compared. Results. Only 138 of 264 patients (49%) underwent an STF. Sex ratio (90% vs. 86% female), average age (14.7 vs. 14.8 yr), and preoperative main thoracic Cobb angles (56.0° ± 9.9°vs. 55.3° ± 11.4°) were not significantly different (STF vs. nonselective fusion). However, the average thoracolumbar/lumbar (TL/L) preoperative Cobb angle was significantly smaller in the STF group (42.1° ± 8.6° vs. 47.0° ± 9.0°; P < 0.001), whereas the main thoracic: TL/L Cobb ratio (1.35 ± 0.20 vs. 1.18 ± 0.15; P < 0.001), apical vertebral translation, and rotation (1.82 ± 0.59 vs. 1.31 ± 0.53; P < 0.001), (1.16 vs. 0.98; P < 0.001) ratios were significantly greater in the STF group. Preoperative coronal balance, sagittal Cobb angles (including T10–L2 kyphosis) and Risser Grade were not significantly different. Preoperative TL/L scoliometer measures were significantly less in the STF group (8.1° ± 3.7° vs. 10.3° ± 5.4°; P = 0.001). On the SAQ, the STF group had less desire for an appearance change. Conclusion. Despite the recommendation to fuse only the structural thoracic curve in a 1C curve, only 49% of patients were treated with an STF. Those undergoing an STF had smaller TL/L Cobb angles, less TL/L clinical deformity, larger main thoracic: TL/L ratios, and less desire for an appearance change. Level of Evidence: 3
Life is tough for curriculum researchers

Anyone attempting to demonstrate the superiority of one medical curriculum over another is faced with a fairly daunting task. A curriculum is such a complex web of interlaced learning experiences that attributing change to any one component is perilous. To further complicate matters, curriculum studies can require studying more than one medical school and often more than one class of medical students. Because medical schools have many characteristics that are idiosyncratic and the composition of a medical school class can vary over time, sorting out curriculum differences from those that reflect institutional quirks and student class variability is challenging. Furthermore, there is so much at stake in students’ lives and careers that they will adapt to any curriculum weaknesses by filling in the ‘gaps’ in their education in any way they can. Perhaps the most challenging problem lies in the fact that any criterion to be used in assessing a new curriculum is likely to be something that was used to evaluate the old curriculum, and is thus really designed for something the new curriculum is not. The new curriculum must then do everything the old curriculum did plus more; this is what I call the ‘Cinderella problem’: you have to clean up after everyone else and still look good for the prince. The one consistency about PBL is that student and faculty satisfaction appears to be greater
Solver for a Magnetic Equivalent Circuit and Modeling the Inrush Current of a 3-Phase Transformer

Knowledge about the magnetic quantities in a magnetic circuit is always of great interest. On th e one hand, this information is needed for the simulation of a trans former. On the other hand, parameter studies are more reliable, if the magnetic quantities are derived from a well established mode l. One possibility to model the 3-phase transformer is by using a magn etic equivalent circuit (MEC). Though this is a well known system, it is often not an easy task to set up such a model for a large number of lumped elements which additionally includes the nonlinear characteristic of the magnetic material. Here we show the setup of a s lver for a MEC and the results of the calculation in comparison to measurements taken. The equations of the MEC are based on a rear ranged system of the nodal analysis. Thus it is possible to achieve a minimum number of equations, and a clear and simple structure. Hen ce, it is uncomplicated in its handling and it supports the i teration process. Additional helpful tasks are implemented within the solver to enhance the performance. The electric circuit is de cribed by an electric equivalent circuit (EEC). Our results for the 3-phase transformer demonstrate the computational efficienc y of the solver, and show the benefit of the application of a MEC. Keywords—Inrush current, magnetic equivalent circuit, nonlinear behavior, transformer.
Large Poisson Games

Existence of equilibria is proven for Poisson games with compact type sets and finite action sets. Then three theorems are introduced for characterizing limits of probabilities in Poisson games when the expected number of players becomes large. The magnitude theorem characterizes the rate at which probabilities of events go zero. The offset theorem characterizes the ratios of probabilites of events that differ by a finite additive translation. The hyperplane theorem estimates probabilites of hyperplane events. These theorems are applied to derive formulas for pivot probabilities in binary elections, and to analyze a voting game that was studied by Ledyard.
Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Sertraline, and Their Combination for Children and Adolescents With Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Correction Contact me if this article is corrected. Citations Contact me when this article is cited. This article has been cited 20 times. Topic collections Contact me when new articles are published in these topic areas. Psychiatry; Cognitive Therapy; Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder the same issue Related Articles published in . 2004;292(16):2040. JAMA Sharon Parmet et al. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder