Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Inhibition and induction of rabbit liver microsomal cytochrome P-450 by pyridine.

The effects of acute and chronic administration of pyridine (PY) on rabbit hepatic microsomal cytochrome P-450-catalyzed drug metabolism have been examined. PY inhibited cytochrome P-450-catalyzed drug metabolism in vitro and in vivo. Noncompetitive inhibition of microsomal drug metabolism was observed with inhibitory constant (Ki) values ranging between 2.0 and 6.0 mM. Acute PY administration, 100 mg/kg i.p., prolonged hexobarbital sleep time in rats 2.5-fold. Chronic administration of PY to rabbits resulted in increased hepatic microsomal cytochrome P-450 content, with induction of different form(s) exhibiting elevated catalytic activities toward PY, N-nitrosodimethylamine, alcohols and aniline. PY administration (100 mg/kg i.p. for 5 days) to rabbits increased hepatic microsomal cytochrome P-450 content over 2-fold relative to uninduced animals. Sodium dodecylsulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of PY-induced microsomes revealed protein bands of enhanced intensity occurring in the regions of P-450 LM3 and LM4. Both PY- and imidazole-induced microsomes were effective in the production of PY N-oxide, with Vmax values of 1.6 and 1.8 nmol/min/mg of protein, respectively. When rates were normalized for P-450 content, PY- and imidazole-induced microsomes produced 0.9 nmol of PY N-oxide/min/nmol of P-450, comparable to that obtained for PB-induced suspensions. N-nitrosodimethylamine N-demethylase activity was enhanced 2.5- and 6-fold relative to PB- and beta-naphthoflavone-induced microsomes, respectively. A single low KM value of 0.17 mM was obtained for N-nitrosodimethylamine N-demethylase activity in PY-induced microsomes; in contrast PB- and beta-naphthoflavone-induced microsomes yielded biphasic kinetics. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Solving the broadside radiation issue in periodic leaky-wave antennas

Based on a generic equivalent circuit model, the radiation degradation at broadside of fully symmetrical LWAs is reviewed. Breaking the symmetry overcomes this degradation and allows to control solely the broadside radiation direction, where the backward and forward (off-broadside) radiation directions remain unaffected. With the degree of asymmetry in the unit cell, the broadside radiation efficiency is then adjusted so to match to the off-broadside radiation efficiency, a procedure referred to as equalization. This paper first summarizes the underlying theory. Next, it provides practical hints on how to implement this asymmetry in the unit cell by demonstrating the equalization in several LWA types including a combline LWA (double-stub loaded transmission line). The broadside issue in this combline LWA is finally resolved by realizing unit cell asymmetry in terms of slightly different stub lengths.
Use of the Dry Eye Questionnaire to Measure Symptoms of Ocular Irritation in Patients With Aqueous Tear Deficient Dry Eye

Purpose. To demonstrate the ability of the Dry Eye Questionnaire (DEQ) to characterize the frequency of ocular surface symptoms and their diurnal intensity in patients with Sjögren's syndrome (SS), keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), and age-matched controls. Methods. One hundred patients with tear-deficient dry eye from Toronto Western Hospital were mailed the DEQ and the McMonnies' questionnaire (MQ). Age- and gender-matched controls were selected from an historical data set. The DEQ measured the habitual frequency, intensity, and impact of common ocular surface symptoms and asked questions about computer use, medications, and allergies. Results. Sixty-two dry eye subjects responded; 30 with SS and 32 with KCS. Compared with controls, SS subjects consistently reported the highest frequency and intensity of symptoms, followed by non-KCS subjects. The intensity of symptoms was significantly greater in the evening than in the morning among SS subjects for all symptoms except dryness and light sensitivity (p < 0.05). Sixty percent of SS subjects reported the need to stop daily activities and close their eyes due to dryness, burning, and light sensitivity. Conclusions. Symptoms of ocular irritation were frequent and intense among SS and KCS subjects. These symptoms often increased in intensity over the day, suggesting that open-eye conditions affect the progression of symptoms. Measurement of symptom frequency and diurnal intensity by the DEQ provides a sensitive tool that may be useful in clinical treatment trials for dry eye.
Apolipoprotein E genotype influences cognitive ‘phenotype’ in patients with Alzheimer's disease but not in healthy control subjects

We examined the association of apolipoprotein E (apo E) genotype with cognitive performance in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) patients and in normal subjects. One hundred fifty-seven AD patients, 35 MCI patients who developed AD during longitudinal follow-up, and 341 normal control subjects from the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer's Disease Patient Registry were studied. All participants were typed for apo E using polymerase chain reaction-based assay. ϵ4+ and ϵ4— groups were compared on cognitive factor scores of Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Organization, Attention/ Concentration, Learning, and Retention. Raw delayed verbal recall and visual confrontation naming scores supplemented these scores. Multivariate ANOVA was completed for cognitive scores. As expected, a main effect for diagnostic group was present across all scores. Multivariate main effects for age group and apo E genotype were also statistically significant. Subsequent within-group comparisons revealed no genotype differences for control subjects across all cognitive scores except raw delayed recall where an interaction indicated that older ϵ4+ control subjects actually scored better than younger ϵ4+ patients. Genotype differences were present for the Retention factor in the MCI sample and for Verbal Comprehension and Learning in the AD sample. In a combined cognitive impairment sample (AD + MCI), genotype differences were present for Verbal Comprehension, Learning, and Retention. Possession of an apo E ϵ4 allele did not appear to be associated with poorer cognitive performance among normal control subjects. In the AD and MCI samples, ϵ4+ status was associated with greater memory impairment in analyses including duration of illness as a covariate. In combined AD + MCI analyses, ϵ4 homozygosity was associated with poorer retention, learning, and verbal comprehension at a given disease duration. Possession of the ϵ4 genotype may influence cognition in a dose-response relationship.
On the transition from nonrenewable energy to renewable energy

In this paper we use the CMM model (Chakravorty et al., 2006) in discrete time and obtain more results concerning the exhaustion time of Non-Renewable Resource (NRE), the dynamic regimes of energy prices, of the stocks of pollution. We show that NRE is exhausted in finite time and is directly influenced by the initial stock of NRE and the costs of NRE and RE. Higher is the initial stock of NRE, far is the time of exhaustion of NRE. Higher is the cost of NRE (resp. the difference of unit costs between RE and NRE), far is the time of exhaustion of NRE. Furthermore, we show that the abatement intervenes, when necessary, not more than two periods. We also show that, when the unit extraction cost of RE is not very high, the stocks of emissions will never be binding if and only if, the initial stock of NRE is less than a critical value.
Rethinking Macroeconomic Policy within a Simple Dynamic Model

We propose a simple macrodynamic model to rethink some standard policy prescriptions. Our model includes exogenous growth, endogenous investment, demand-driven production and employment, a dynamic Phillips curve, and fiscal and monetary policy instruments. The model has multiple steady states with different stability properties, and it is analytically tractable to a significant extent. Given the nonlinear nature of the model, we complete the analytical results with simulations. The model generates different growth patterns, endogenous fluctuations, and demand-driven level effects even in the long-run. It also reveals saddle-path type instabilities in which seemingly stable paths suddenly give way to increasing volatility. These results lead us to reflect on fiscal and monetary policy standards, and suggest new interpretations for the “Great Recession”.
Dietary Sardine Oil Increases Erythrocyte Membrane Fluidity in Diabetic Patients

The effects of dietary sardine oil rich in eicosapentaenoic acid, C20:5 (EPA), on erythrocyte membrane fluidity and membrane and plasma lipids were investigated in diabetic and control subjects. Before consumption of this oil, the levels of erythrocyte membrane fluidity were lower in the diabetic subjects, as noted in our previous work (Diabetes 1983; 32:585–91). Decreased membrane polyunsaturated fatty acid contents were evident. Daily consumption of 2700 mg of sardine oil for 8 wk increased erythrocyte membrane fluidity, as determined by electron spin resonance using the 12- or 16- stearic acid label. This increase was seen after 4 wk, and the level remained elevated for 8 wk. Membrane EPA of phospholipid acyl-chains significantly increased after 4 wk and was even more apparent after 8 wk. Membrane-free cholesterol to phospholipid molar ratios significantly decreased after 8 wk. Both the diabetic and normal subjects responded to the sardine oil in the same way. After feeding with sardine oil, there no longer were differences in erythrocyte membrane fluidity between, the normal and diabetic subjects. We propose that improvement in membrane fluidity may contribute to the amelioration of altered cell membrane functions in diabetic patients.
Community based social marketing for implementation of energy saving targets at local level

Energy saving and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction policies at local level need to be investigated and new tools for climate change mitigation are necessary seeking to achieve GHG emission targets in Lithuania. Most Lithuanian municipalities have signed Covenant of Mayors and have prepared local energy action plans. However, all these plans include just energy saving measures on supply side and renovation of buildings. Nevertheless, the significant energy savings and GHG emission reductions can be achieved through behavioural changes. The aim of the paper is to apply community based social marketing approach in assessment of achievable energy saving and GHG emission reduction targets set by local energy action plans. The paper presents the results of case study implemented in Kaunas region municipality. The case study was conducted by creating focus groups and applying two scenarios: baseline or doing nothing and climate change mitigation scenario including intervention measures. The results of case study revealed that the total energy consumption reduction target set in Sustainable energy development strategy of Kaunas region county - 11% - can be achieved by combining results of energy consumption reduction in both focus groups. The survey conducted after study finalization revealed that respondents were provided with a lot of additional knowledge during the study and achieved real money savings. The major barriers of energy savings in households are related with the lack of information on energy savings and GHG emission reduction.
The Relationships Between Weight Stigma, Ethnic Identity, and Acculturation in Latinas

The Relationships Between Weight Stigma, Ethnic Identity, and Acculturation in Latinas by Catherine Rodríguez Torres Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Social Psychology Walden University November 2018 Abstract Weight stigma has negative psychological and physical consequences including anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, and lower quality of life. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to explore the relationships between weight stigma, ethnic identity, and acculturation in Latinas. The intersectional theory provided the framework for this study. A sample of 154 Latinas over the age of 18 living in the United States or 1Weight stigma has negative psychological and physical consequences including anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, and lower quality of life. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to explore the relationships between weight stigma, ethnic identity, and acculturation in Latinas. The intersectional theory provided the framework for this study. A sample of 154 Latinas over the age of 18 living in the United States or 1 of its territories was gathered through social media, a fat acceptance organization, and a research participant pool. The online survey consisted of 3 psychometric tools-Modified Weight Bias Internalization Scale, Multi-Group Ethnic Identity Measure-Revised, and the Abbreviated Multidimensional Acculturation Scale. Descriptive, correlational, and regression analyses were conducted. Results from this study indicated that ethnic identity was not significantly related to weight stigma and that acculturation to either the U.S. or culture of origin did not significantly interact with ethnic identity to predict weight stigma. This study was focused on a vulnerable population experiencing weight stigma, and provides the professional community with culturally relevant data on weight stigma in Latinas, information on weight stigma reduction interventions, and contributions to policy and paradigm changes about body diversity. The Relationships Between Weight Stigma, Ethnic Identity, and Acculturation in Latinas by Catherine Rodríguez Torres Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Social Psychology Walden University November 2018 Dedication This dissertation is dedicated to my parents for the inheritance of my culture and my identity. It is dedicated to my brothers as a reminder that we can achieve anything we set our minds to. Acknowledgements Thank you Dr. Jonathan Cabiria and Dr. Brandon Cosley for your guidance through this process. Thank you, JK, for your support. Thank you, friends and family, for your constant cheering in the background.
Lean Leadership in Construction

Lean leadership is the missing link between theoretical solutions and application in practice. This is the difference between superficial attempts at implementing Lean, where the tools and techniques are evident, but the behaviors haven’t changed, and the results are disappointing or not sustained beyond a few brief weeks of enthusiasm. The key to understanding how to implement Lean successfully is to realize that Lean leadership is an integral part of the Toyota Production System (TPS), not an afterthought. The principles of Lean leadership are summarized in construction, which bring the ‘Lean toolbox’ to life and realize the benefits predicted by the academic models. The principles are then developed into practical behaviors that can be demonstrated, understood and replicated using rapid learning techniques, with particular focus on team leadership. The critical success factor for accelerating the take up of Lean construction is contractor leadership. The reason why the contractor’s role is key in leading the other stakeholders in the value stream is examined, and comparisons are made to leadership in the TPS. Contractors have many opportunities to embark on the Lean journey, yet the claimed benefits often lack credibility. This often leads to the danger that a “Lean” facade is bolted onto their existing operations to attempt to convince their demanding clients that they are forward thinking organizations, and that their apparent skills in Lean will earn them another “tick in the box”. This paper outlines the practical benefits of embracing Lean to fundamentally change the construction value stream, the contractor’s business, to astonish their clients, and to deliver lasting tangible benefits.
Mechanism design for refunding emissions payment

We analyze two mechanism designs for refunding emission payments to polluting firms; Output Based (OB) and Expenditure Based (EB) refunding. In both instruments, emissions fees are returned to the polluting industry, possibly making the policy more easily accepted by policymakers than a standard tax. The crucial difference between OB and EB is that the fees are refunded in proportion to output in the former, but in proportion to the firms' expenditure on abatement equipment in the latter. We show that to achieve a given abatement target, the fee level in the OB design exceeds the standard tax rate, whereas the fee level in the EB design is lower. Furthermore, the use of OB and EB refunding may lead to large differences in the distribution of costs across firms. Both designs do, strictly speaking, imply a cost-ineffective provision of abatement as firms put relatively too much effort into reducing emissions through abatement technology compared with emission reductions through reduced output. However, this may be seen as an advantage by policymakers if they seek to avoid activity reduction in the regulated sector. We provide some numerical illustrations based on abatement cost information from the Norwegian NOx fund.
What is ‘Lean’? An overview and its emerging role in health care

It seems that, as each day passes, surgeons in Canada are expected to better understand and control the cost implications of their craft and its impact on the broader system. As budgets continue to contract relative to inflation and previous epochs of prosperity, austerity and cost containment will continue to dominate health care delivery. Cost control is not a novel concept for businesses that are obliged to answer to principals’ and shareholders’ demands for profit. Health care in Canada has remained relatively impervious to this metric, where the notion of patient care has always trumped penny pinching. In fact, perseverating over cost in the past and choosing lower cost alternatives was, in a way, akin to offering inferior care. The pendulum has swung; cost containment is regarded as a means to system salvation and self-preservation.
Clinical, neuroimaging, and environmental risk differences in monozygotic female twins appearing discordant for dementia of the Alzheimer type.

OBJECTIVE The study of monozygotic twins can elucidate possible environmental causes for a disease in genetically identical subjects. To this end, we studied a pair of monozygotic female twins appearing discordant for dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT). DESIGN Clinical and neuroimaging findings were compared in terms of potential environmental risk factors. SETTING University referral center. PARTICIPANTS An 81-year-old female monozygotic twin pair. OUTCOME MEASURES Clinical assessments, standardized rating scales, and brain imaging studies, including magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and electroencephalography, were performed. Neuropsychological tests were performed initially and after 1 year. RESULTS Although DAT was confirmed clinically in only one twin, neuropsychological and brain imaging studies suggested that the unaffected twin may be developing the prodrome of DAT. The twins' varied life histories suggest that environmental risk factors may contribute to apparent discordance for DAT and possible delay in disease onset for the currently nondemented twin. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that both genetic and nongenetic factors influence disease onset and expression. Moreover, review of previous reports of monozygotic twin pairs concordant or discordant for Alzheimer's disease, with adequate family history data, suggest a pattern indicating interactions among age at dementia onset, sex, and familiarity. Such patterns point to hypotheses regarding neurobiologically meaningful Alzheimer's disease subgroups.
Relationship of diet to risk of colorectal adenoma in men.

BACKGROUND Rates of colorectal cancer in various countries are strongly correlated with per-capita consumption of red meat and animal fat and inversely associated with fiber consumption. There have been few studies, however, of dietary risk factors for colorectal adenomas, which are precursors of cancer. PURPOSE Our purpose was to determine prospectively the relationship between dietary factors and risk of colorectal adenomas. METHODS Using data from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study, we documented 170 cases of adenomas of the left colon or rectum in 7284 male health professionals who completed a food-frequency questionnaire in 1986 and who had a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy between 1986 and 1988. Relative risk (RR) of adenoma was determined according to quintiles of nutrient intakes. RESULTS After adjustment for total energy intake, saturated fat was positively associated with risk of colorectal adenoma (P for trend = .006); RR for the highest versus the lowest quintile of intake was 2.0 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.2-3.2). Dietary fiber was inversely associated with risk of adenoma (P for trend less than .0001); RR for men in the highest versus the lowest quintile was 0.36 (95% CI = 0.22-0.60). All sources of fiber (vegetables, fruits, and grains) were associated with decreased risk of adenoma. For subjects on a high-saturated fat, low-fiber diet, the RR was 3.7 (95% CI = 1.5-8.8) compared with those on a low-saturated fat, high-fiber diet. The ratio of the intake of red meat to the intake of chicken and fish was positively associated with risk of adenoma (P for trend = .02). CONCLUSIONS These prospective data provide evidence for the hypothesis that a diet high in saturated fat and low in fiber increases the risk of colorectal adenoma. They also support existing recommendations to substitute chicken and fish for red meat in the diet and to increase intake of vegetables, fruits, and grains to reduce risk of colorectal cancer.
Theoretical Aspects of Fault Isolation on High-Power DC Lines Using Resonant DC / DC Converters

This paper investigates DC fault current l imiting and interrupting capability of a multi MW r esonant DC/DC converter which is proposed for applications with H igh Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) systems. The conv erter can be used as a DC circuit breaker or as a multifunctional uni t: DC transformer, regulating element and DC circui t breaker. The study is primarily concerned with the inherent converter responses, in the first several milliseconds after the fault, and prior to any controller action. A detailed converter design is g iven to prevent fault propagation through the conve rt r even for most severe faults on low voltage or high voltage termin als. The analytical modelling proves that the conve rter will internally reduce power transfer during fault conditions. The simulation on PSCAD/EMTDC shows that converter oper ates uninterrupted through most severe faults, the switc h turn-off time is not violated and inherent stabil ising properties prevent any overvoltage or extreme currents. The converter can respond like high-impedance circuit on the unfa ulted terminals. The impact of unbalanced DC line faults on a bipolar DC system is also discussed. The detailed PSCAD tests with a 200MW DC/DC converter interconnecting ±44kV and ±250kV DC lines demonstrate the ability to prevent fault pro agation even for most severe DC line faults. The interaction with ot her HVDC converters in case of faults is also demon strated.