Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Secessions of Municipal Health Centre Federations: Expenditure and Productivity Effects

We examine the expenditure and efficiency effects of secessions of health centre federations between 1990 and 2003. Using both regression and matching techniques we find statistically significant effects. According to results, the per capita primary health care expenditure growth is approximately five percent higher in seceded health centres compared to all non-seceded health centres. Using nearest neighbour matching, we find that the average secession effect is eight percent on per capita primary health care expenditures. We find no effect on specialised health care expenditures. Using an indicator of health centre service volume, we find that secessions had no positive effects on the productivity development in the long term. The rapid expenditure growth of seceded health centres can thus be explained both by increasing service volume and decreasing productivity. Key words: Health care expenditures, health centre secessions, economies of scale
Do legal and institutional environments matter for banking system performance?

Abstract Using data on 52 countries’ banking systems from 2005 to 2014, we explore how the legal and institutional environment influences banking system performance. Using panel data and controlling for financial and economic development indicators, we find evidence of several relationships related to banking system performance. First, a higher degree of legal protection for both lenders and borrowers positively affects banking system performance. Second, there is a positive relationship between the degree of law enforcement and banking system performance. Third, better regulatory quality positively affects banking system performance. Fourth, neither the degree of information sharing nor the control of corruption has a significant effect on banking sector performance. Finally, we find no significant differences in banking sector performance by type of economy.
Pattern of Sleep Disordered Breathing in Obese Indians

Introduction: Obesity has become a major health problem worldwide due to high comorbidity and an increasing prevalence. It is the greatest risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Owing to lack of data on the association of obesity and OSA within the country, the present study was designed to evaluate the pattern of sleep disordered breathing (SDB) among obese Indian subjects. Material and Method: The study was prospectively carried out in Sleep Laboratory of LRS Institute of Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases, New Delhi. 30 obese [having body mass index BMI > 27.5 kg/m2] and 10 non-obese (having BMI < 27.5 kg/m2) subjects were consecutively enrolled into the study (obesity) and the control (non-obese) groups respectively as per the World Health Organization (WHO) Criteria of Obesity for Asians. Detailed clinical history including that of sleep was taken, a physical examination along with anthropometric measurements like neck circumference (NC), waist circumference (WC) and hip circumference (HC) was done and laboratory investigations were performed in all subjects, who thereafter, underwent an overnight polysomnography (PSG) on Compumedics E-Series sleep software. Sleep was staged as per Rechtshaffen and Kales (R & K) rules and SDB evaluated as per standard criteria. Data was subjected to statistical analysis. Results: There were 16 obese, 8 severely obese & 6 morbidly obese subjects. Respective characteristics of the obesity and the control group subjects showed a mean age of 47.73 and 40.90 years, a male-female ratio of 19: 11 and 7:3, and a mean BMI of 33.46 and 23.73 kg/m2. Mean Apnoea-Hypopnoea Index (AHI) was significantly higher among the subjects of the obesity group as compared to the controls. Similarly, mean AHI was significantly higher among the obese males, those having NC between 35 to < 45 cms, symptomatics, those having 4 to 6 number of symptoms, and those having co-morbidities as compared to the respective non-obese counterparts. Mean value of sleep latency was higher, while that of Total Sleep Time (TST) & sleep efficiency lower in the obesity than the control group. Oxygen De-saturation Index (ODI) and indices of arousal, Periodic Limb Movement (PLM) in Sleep (PLMS) & PLM with arousals were significantly higher in the obesity as compared to the control group respectively. No significant differences were noticed between the groups with regard to sleep stage percentages. Address for correspondence: Dr Rajnish Gupta Chest Specialist and In-charge, ICU & Sleep Lab LRS Institute of Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases, Sri Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi-110030 Tel. : 9891563256 E.mail : drguptarajnish@yahoo.co.in ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
Acute Lung Injury Following Smoke Inhalation: Predictive Value of Sputum Biomarkers and Time Course of Lung Inflammation

Abstract : The role of lung inflammatory mediators in the development of lung injury following smoke inhalation is unknown. Our objectives are to determine whether initial markers of inflammation or longitudinal changes in inflammatory markers are associated with ARDS or hypoxemia. Study design: Bronchial secretions from 200-250 intubated patients with smoke inhalation injury will be evaluated for initial and longitudinal changes concentrations of substance P, TNF- , IL-1, IL-8, and IL-10, as well as cell count and differential every two hours to a maximum of 72 hours. Initial lung inflammation and changes in inflammatory markers will be compared in patients with and without subsequent significant lung injury. We have enrolled 123 subjects. To date, we have completed sample assays and data analysis on a subset of 21 subjects with early samples. We have assessed longitudinal changes in TNF- , IL-1 , IL-8, IL-10, sFASl, substance P, IL-1RA, 2M, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 concentrations over the first 36 hours post-exposure, and looked at the relation between these biomarkers and hypoxemia and ARDS. We have defined temporal changes in IL-8, IL-1 , IL-1RA/IL-1 , and TNF- /TNF-R2 post-exposure, and have found that initial concentrations of IL-8 and the ratio of 2-M to IL-8 are significant predictors of subsequent hypoxemia. Further analysis of additional markers, including neutrophils, proteases, and protease-inhibitors, have been started.
Metastatic Breast Cancer: Biomolecular Characterization and Targeted Therapy

Metastasis is a complex process that remains a major challenge in the clinical management of cancer, because most cancer-related deaths are attributed to disseminated disease rather than the primary tumor. Despite the significant advances in the prediction of prognosis, and therapeutic management of primary breast cancers, coupled with the substantial improvement in our understanding of the molecular determinants of metastasis, breast cancer relapse and death rates remain unacceptably high. The aim of the research presented in this thesis was to characterize the biomolecular heterogeneity of breast cancer across tumor progression stages and to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic strategies which may improve prognostication and personalization of therapy for women diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. By analysis of tumor biopsies collected at different stages of disease progression, we showed that, in general, the phenotype of the primary tumor is typically conserved during tumor progression. However, in a clinically relevant number of cases, a phenotypic drift in biomarkers and tumor molecular subtypes occurs longitudinally with disease progression, with a change to a more aggressive phenotype being associated with an inferior clinical outcome. We also uncovered that breast cancer liver metastases are transcriptionally different from metastases in other anatomical sites and identified candidate liver metastasis-selective genes with the potential to specifically predict liver metastatic relapse and more generally, the time to any recurrence in early stage breast cancer. Furthermore, we demonstrated that co-targeting of PARP1 and PI3K may represent an improved and specific treatment strategy for BRCA1 deficient breast cancers. The results we present continue to emphasize the clinical significance of breast cancer heterogeneity and highlight possible ways to improve the accuracy of predicting prognosis and effectively treating patients with metastatic disease, a step towards achieving the promise of personalized cancer management and overcoming the clinical burden of metastatic breast cancer.
Desenvolvimento e validação de metodologias analíticas para quantificação de um derivado tiofênico em sistemas microemulsionados

O presente trabalho teve por objetivo validar metodos por espectrofotometria UV-Vis e por CLAE para a analise quantitativa de um derivado do tiofeno, o 2-[(3,4-dicloro-benzilideno)-amino]-5,6-diidro-4H-ciclopen-ta[b]tiofeno-3-carbonitrila (5CN05) e aplica-los no doseamento da molecula contida em microemulsoes. Os metodos propostos foram validados conforme a Resolucao 899/2003 da Agencia Nacional de Vigilância Sanitaria (ANVISA). O comprimento de onda de maxima absorcao do farmaco 5CN05 foi detectado em λmax= 387nm. O metodo espectrofotometrico validado mostrou-se seletivo, apresentando linearidade na faixa de 3 a 16 μg. mL-1, coeficiente de correlacao (r) igual a 0,9998 e limites de deteccao e quantificacao de 0,12 μg. mL-1 e 0,41 μg. mL-1, respectivamente. Para o metodo CLAE, observou-se linearidade na faixa de 0,1 a 3,0 μg. mL-1, r = 0,99915, limites de deteccao e quantificacao de 0,07 μg. mL-1 e 0,10 μg. mL-1 respectivamente. Para ambos os metodos, os parâmetros precisao, exatidao e robustez mostraram-se adequados para o uso pretendido. As metodologias propostas podem ser seguramente aplicadas para quantificacao do 5CN05 em produtos farmaceuticos como microemulsoes. Palavras-chave: Microemulsao. Derivado do tiofeno. Validacao espectrofotometria e por CLAE. ABSTRACT Development and validation of analytical methodologies for measurement of a tiophene derivative in microemulsion systems This study aims to validate methods of Uv-Vis) and HPLC for quantitative determination of a thiophene derivative, 2 - [(3,4-dichloro -benzylidene)-amino] -5,6-dihydro-4H-cyclopentyl-ta [b] thiophene-3- carbonitrile referred in this study as 5CN05, and apply them to quantify the 5CN05 in microemulsions. The proposed methods were validated according to the Resolution RE 899/2003 of the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA). The 5CN05 was detected by UV-Vis at λmax= 387nm. The validated UVVis UVVis method proved to be selective, showing linearity in the range of 3-16 μg. mL-1, correlation coefficient (r) of 0.9998 and limits of detection and quantification of 0.12 μg. mL-1 and 0.41 μg. mL-1 respectively. For the CLAE method the linearity was observed in the range 0.1 to 3.0 μg. mL-1, r = 0.99915, limits of detection and quantification of 0.07 μg. mL-1 and 0.10 μg. mL-1 respectively. For both UV-Vis and CLAE methods, the precision parameters, accuracy and robustness were adequate for the intended use. The proposed methodologies can be safely applied to quantify the 5CN05 in pharmaceutical microemulsions products. Keywords: Microemulsion. Thiophene derivative. Validation spectrophotometry and HPLC.
Learning Multiple Sound Source 2D Localization

In this paper, we propose novel deep learning based algorithms for multiple sound source localization. Specifically, we aim to find the 2D Cartesian coordinates of multiple sound sources in an enclosed environment by using multiple microphone arrays. To this end, we use an encoding-decoding architecture and propose two improvements on it to accomplish the task. In addition, we also propose two novel localization representations which increase the accuracy. Lastly, new metrics are developed relying on resolution-based multiple source association which enables us to evaluate and compare different localization approaches. We tested our method on both synthetic and real world data. The results show that our method improves upon the previous baseline approach for this problem.
Review: Salt, blood pressure and the renin-angiotensin system

Much evidence from epidemiological, migration, intervention, animal and genetic studies suggests that salt intake plays an important role in regulating blood pressure (BP). At the same time, many clinical trials have shown that reducing salt intake lowers BP. However, the magnitude of the fall in BP for a given reduction in salt intake varies with age, ethnic group and BP levels. This difference has been suggested to be related to the responsiveness of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). However, the sympathetic nervous system, the kallikrein-kinin system, the nitric oxide system, and many eicosanoids may also play a role. In this article, we address the important role of the RAS in determining the fall in BP with salt reduction.
Descobrindo perfis de tráfego de usuários: uma abordagem não supervisionada

A complexidade das redes domésticas exige estratégias inovadoras para o gerenciamento da rede e caracterização da demanda dos usuários. Neste trabalho usamos técnicas não supervisionadas de aprendizado de máquina com o objetivo de descobrir o perfil de tráfego dos usuários. Em parceria com um ISP, coletamos o tráfego de download e upload de mais de 2.000 roteadores domésticos. Usamos uma técnica de decomposição de tensores (PARAFAC) para extrair fatores relevantes de uso da rede e um algoritmo de clusterização para agrupar usuários com padrões de tráfego diário similares. Para caracterizar o comportamento dos usuários em períodos maiores que um dia, usamos a informação dos clusters e um modelo de Markov oculto.
Toward quality discourse: Measuring the effect of user identity in commenting forums

Via a content analysis of 4,800 comments from online commenting forums of top news sites, this research examines the overall quality of the comments. Expanding the scope of previous research in this area and guided by the theory of deliberative democracy, the normative conditions for quality discourse were measured with six parameters: civility, reciprocity, reflexivity, rationality, diversity, and relevance. In measuring the quality of the comments, two conditions were the identity of the commenter.
A knowledge lens: Humans in action

Every member of a social system sees that system in a particular way. This essay outlines a new way of seeing the uniquely human characteristics in these systems, with particular attention to what happens when this view is taken. Termed the Knowledge Lens, this view embraces complexity, sees the potential of innovation through conversation, and understands the barriers limiting the traditionally assumed powers of data, information, and knowledge. This lens is approached within the context of ensuring that graduates of a Knowledge School are equipped with the tools and understanding necessary to facilitate positive change and increase human agency--both in their jobs and their communities. Specific attention is also paid to the role of automation, with the suggestion that automation and information-centric views work only in areas with known and simple answers.
Automated Measurement of Hippocampal Atrophy Using Fluid-Registered Serial MRI in AD and Controls

Objective: To assess hippocampal atrophy rates calculated from fluid registration methods. Methods: Hippocampi were segmented on baseline and registered-repeat scans of 32 probable Alzheimer disease (AD) subjects and 55 controls. Fluid-based atrophy rates were calculated. Results: In AD patients, the mean (SD) atrophy rates for manual, fluidly propagated, and Jacobian methods were 5.09 (3.59), 5.34 (3.43), and 3.55 (2.70) (percentage per year). In controls, atrophy rates were 1.31 (2.00), 0.89 (0.75), and 0.56 (1.12) (percentage per year). In AD, fluid propagation and manual rates were similar in means (P = 0.55) and variances (P = 0.71). Jacobian rates were smaller in mean (P = 0.002) and variance (P = 0.026) than in manual rates. In controls, fluid-propagated rates were similar in mean to manual rates (P = 0.12), but less variable (P < 0.0001). Jacobian rates were smaller in mean (P = 0.014) and less variable (P < 0.0001) than in manual rates. Both fluid methods were superior to manual measures in separating AD from controls (P < 0.0001). Conclusions: Fluid-based methods may be useful in large serial hippocampal studies.
Investigation into Pharmacological Profile and Mechanism of Action of Abscisic Acid with Reference to it's Possible Therapeutic Usefulness

Insulin resistance is a metabolic disorder that prevails worldwide and plays a role in pathophysiology of most common human diseases including type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity, dyslipidemia and coronary heart disease. Insulin resistance can be induced by fructose-rich diet in rats. One of most effective medications in treatment of insulin resistance has been thiazolidinediones (TZDs). TZDs are reported to have some troublesome adverse effects. Abscisic acid is a phytohormone with structural similarity to TZDs. We investigated effects of 2-cis, 4-trans abscisic acid on glucose, lipid profile, and serum insulin levels in wistar rats fed with high fructose. The animals were divided into 4 groups: normal control, disease control (10% fructose in drinking water, 30 days), standard treated (Pioglitazone 10mg/kg p.o. with 10% fructose in drinking water, 30 days) and Abscisic acid (ABA) treated (1mg/kg p.o. with 10% fructose in drinking water, 30 days) group (n=6). Fructose significantly increased serum fasting glucose (p<0.01), serum insulin (p<0.05), FIRI (p<0.01), liver and muscle glycogen (p<0.01) as compared to control group. Standard as well as ABA treated group significantly reduced serum glucose (p<0.01), serum insulin (p<0.05), FIRI (p<0.01), liver and muscle glycogen (p<0.01) as compared to disease control group. Our results show that administration of abscisic acid may be advantageous for preservation of the functional efficiency of pancreatic β cells, probably by improving insulin action via PPAR γ agonistic action and thereby preventing induction of insulin resistance.
Sexual Behavior and HIV Risk in Kenya: Epowering Youth in HIV Prevention

textabstractThis thesis explores three topics concerning youth in Kenya: their knowledge and information needs regarding sexual and reproductive health including HIV/AIDS; their sexual risk behaviour; and HIV prevention efforts targeted at them. The data on which these studies are based were collected in Kenya during 1999-2004. The studies were conducted in collaboration with several institutions including the Population Council in Nairobi, Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp, SOMA-Net in Nairobi, Erasmus MC in Rotterdam, and NUFFIC in The Hague. The studies that are described in this thesis fill gaps in knowledge concerning risk factors that are crucial in the spread of STI/HIV, but have received little attention in the literature. Despite a growing interest in adolescent health, much remains unknown about the factors that enhance sexual risk among young people. For example, why are HIV rates in Kenya so high among young people and especially young women? Few studies have focussed on the ways in which dominant norms and youth culture place young people’s sexual health at risk. Understanding the way in which young people grow into adulthood, requires exploration of social situations and relations. Knowledge of these aspects can help to develop prevention strategies to control the spread of HIV/AIDS. This thesis aims to provide insight and knowledge that is essential for all parties involved in policies and programs on sexual and reproductive health education in Kenya, and aims to assist in identifying effective strategies. This introductory chapter provides the demographic, socio-cultural and economic background. The chapter ends with the research questions and an outline of the thesis.
Ogrody szpitali psychiatrycznych z przełomu XIX i XX wieku – reinterpretacja

Parki i ogrody były niezbywalną częścią szpitali psychiatrycznych końca XIX i początku XX wieku w Europie. W myśl wielu teorii, głoszonych w owym czasie, przebywanie w odpowiednim otoczeniu zbliżonym do idyllicznego obrazu życia na wsi, w kontakcie z naturą, miało sprzyjać leczeniu chorób psychicznych. Tak więc budynki szpitali – najpierw wznoszone jako budowle korytarzowe (lub czasem lokowane w adaptowanych budynkach poklasztornych), a następnie w układzie pawilonowym – otaczano celowo komponowanym krajobrazem kreowanym w myśl tendencji panujących wówczas w sztuce ogrodowej. Na przestrzeni lat kompleksy szpitalne podlegały rozmaitym przemianom wynikającym z rozwoju psychiatrii oraz społecznego postrzegania chorób psychicznych. Nowe obiekty służące potrzebom chorych w obrębie ograniczonego obszaru szpitala dobudowywano często kosztem zieleni. W ostatnich latach w wyniku studiów historycznych zaczęto jednak doceniać wartość zabytkową tych zespołów, co pozwala, nawet w obliczu dążenia do deinstytucjonalizacji opieki psychiatrycznej i likwidacji wielu starych szpitali, zachować ich walory. Nadal jednak wiele placówek pełni funkcje lecznicze, a ich otwarcie i przemiany są także konsekwencją postępującej destygmatyzacji chorób psychicznych. Placówki likwidowane są adaptowane do nowych funkcji jako niezwykle atrakcyjne zespoły architektoniczno-krajobrazowe. INTRODUCTION
Relationship between Iron Bio-Availability from Diets and the Prevalence of iron Deficiency

Iron bioavailability was determined by the extrinsic label method in seven diets consumed by low, middle, and high socio-economic strata of the Venezuelan population. The results were compared with physiologic iron requirements and the prevalence of iron deficiency according to age and sex of others in the same strata. The iron metabolic balance obtained by comparing the iron absorption from diets with the physiologic iron requirement was negative in subjects consuming the low-bioavailability diets, being more marked in children below four years of age, and in adolescents and adult females. These groups also showed the highest prevalence of iron deficiency with and without anaemia. The metabolic iron balance in subjects consuming high iron-bioavailability diets was less negative among vulnerable groups consuming low-bioavailability diets and positive in the age and sex groups less vulnerable to iron deficiency. This information was used to identify the principal categories of dietary iron bioavailability in various regions of the world and their effect on the prevalence of iron deficiency.