Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Misleading meta-analysis

A meta-analysis of treatments in myocardial infarction published in 1992 retrospectively showed that streptokinase was associated with a highly significant fall in mortality by 1977, after inclusion of 15 trials.1 Thrombolysis was, however, not widely recommended until 10 years later—after the effect was confirmed in two mega trials.1 2 3 In the case of magnesium, a substantial fall in mortality was evident by 1990, after inclusion of seven trials. In 1993, based on an updated meta-analysis it was argued that magnesium treatment represented an “effective, safe, simple and inexpensive” intervention that should be introduced into clinical practice without further delay.4 The negative results of ISIS 4 (the fourth international study of infarct survival), published in last week's Lancet,5 have dealt a blow to enthusiasm for both magnesium and meta-analysis.6 As the findings of meta-analyses and systematic reviews are generally not tested in mega trials the situation regarding magnesium represents an opportunity to examine a false positive meta-analysis. The table compares the meta-analyses of trials of magnesium and streptokinase after myocardial infarction. Trials were cumulatively included until the treatment effect was significant at P<0.001. For magnesium, seven small trials whose results were published in the 1980s were sufficient to establish the effect. Although trials were larger in the case of fibrinolytic treatment, twice as many studies and two decades were necessary to reach the same level of significance. Until recently it could …
Isolated Medial Collateral Ligament Injuries in the Knee

Abstract The management of ligament injuries in the knee has progressed significantly over the past two decades as a result of both laboratory and clinical studies that better define the healing capacity of these supporting structures. The intracapsular ligaments (the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments) appear to have limited potential for spontaneous healing and frequently require surgical reconstruction. The extracapsular ligaments (the medial and lateral collateral ligaments), however, appear to have a fairly robust potential for healing. As a result, the need for surgical intervention is limited to specific clinical situations.
Using Patient-Specific Quality Information to Unlock Hidden Health Care Capabilities

We document a wide variation in quality among 188 surgeons at 35 hospitals in New York state that perform mitral valve surgery. Our analysis shows that patients of different demographics and levels of acuity benefit differently from elite surgeons. However, existing healthcare provider quality information is based on population averages and so does not differentiate patients of different medical conditions. This implies that patient-centric quality information, which calibrates outcome statistics by patient demographics and acuity, can increase the ability of patients to choose the most appropriate surgeon. In this paper, we develop an approach for computing patient-centric information from outcome data and evaluate the potential health benefits from using such information to guide patients to surgeons. We estimate that the total societal benefits from using patient-centric information are comparable to those achievable by enabling the best surgeons to treat 40% more patients under population-average information.
Evaluating WaveWatch: an ambient display of web traffic

Over the past two decades a number of public, real time visualization systems, referred to as Ambient Information Systems have been developed. These systems often have a focus on both aesthetics and information relevance while being intended to function in the periphery of a user's attention. In this paper we report on the evaluation of an Ambient Display known as WaveWatch. The WaveWatch display uses high-quality graphics and adopts a novel metaphor for visualizing variations in web traffic by representing the underlying dynamics with different levels of ocean wave activity. The abstract wave scene is intended to be informative but also provide a calming rather than distracting background in the work place. Here we report the results of a two-week in-situ deployment of the display. The results of this evaluation indicate the efficacy of the display in terms of our key design criteria, namely, aesthetics, business relevance of data, peripheral non-alarming operation and the overall utility of the display.
Software Defects and Object Oriented Metrics - An Empirical Analysis

Object Oriented design, today, is becoming more popular in software development environment. Object oriented measurements are being used to evaluate and predict the quality of software. Because of the need of Object Oriented software and high quality demand, traditional metrics cannot be applied. One of the reasons for this is that the traditional metrics measures are generally used in the structured programming paradigm where the design structure and data structure are measured independently. But an Object Oriented metric is able to treat function and data as combined integrated object. In this paper we have evaluated two metrics Weighted Method per Class (WMC) and Coupling between Object Classes (CBO) of Chidamber and Kemerer metrics Suite. We have done an empirical study and tried to find out the nature of relationship of these metrics with defects. In other words, it has been investigated whether these metrics are significantly associated with defects or not. For this we have taken samples of 50 Java classes of different projects developed by the final year B. Tech students under the guidance of faculty members having 4-10 years experience in object oriented programming. We have deliberately taken different projects & tried to check if these metrics can really be reliable measurements for predicting defects when applied to inherently different projects.
Dynamic Spectrum Access Techniques: TPC-resilient Initial Access in Open Spectrum Bands

Fast frequency channel saturation is one of big challenges in open spectrum bands. System designers may easily come up with TPC (transmission power control) applied to the down-streams of a network, to increase the cell reuse factor, but this scheme alone is likely to encounter initial access issues where beacons are not either receivable or decodable inside the network's maximum transmission range. Such problems can be handled in two major approaches: first, relaying beacons in a distributed manner to statistically sweep out hidden areas; and second, explicit demand of beacons from a connecting device. The latter is called active scan (or sending probes) and can guarantee successful connections to the network if, and only if, appropriate mechanisms are provided to avoid interference to neighboring networks. In that context, we will explore a wide span of DSA (dynamic spectrum access) techniques and introduce a system, called DPA (discrete probe access)-OFDMA, where probe frames are transmitted with orthogonality maintained in the power and code domain. A group of cognitive techniques to boost the efficiency of active scans will be presented too.
Agonist binding to the NMDA receptor drives movement of its cytoplasmic domain without ion flow

Significance NMDA receptors (R) are ion channels that participate in many important physiological and pathophysiological processes in the brain. Recent studies suggest that NMDARs can also act in a manner that does not require ion flow. One way this could occur is for agonist binding to the NMDAR to produce conformational movement of its cytoplasmic domain in the absence of ion flow. Here we use FRET imaging of genetically encoded fluorescent proteins linked to the cytoplasmic domain of NMDAR subunits to monitor directly agonist-driven movement within the cytoplasmic domain of NMDARs. This study demonstrates that transmembrane information transfer through the NMDAR is possible in the absence of ion flow through the receptor. The NMDA receptor (R) plays important roles in brain physiology and pathology as an ion channel. Here we examine the ion flow-independent coupling of agonist to the NMDAR cytoplasmic domain (cd). We measure FRET between fluorescently tagged cytoplasmic domains of GluN1 subunits of NMDARs expressed in neurons. Different neuronal compartments display varying levels of FRET, consistent with different NMDARcd conformations. Agonist binding drives a rapid and transient ion flow-independent reduction in FRET between GluN1 subunits within individual NMDARs. Intracellular infusion of an antibody targeting the GluN1 cytoplasmic domain blocks agonist-driven FRET changes in the absence of ion flow, supporting agonist-driven movement of the NMDARcd. These studies indicate that extracellular ligand binding to the NMDAR can transmit conformational information into the cell in the absence of ion flow.
Tracing Based Active Intrusion Response

Network-based intrusion has become a serious threat to today’s highly networked information systems, existing intrusion defense approaches such as intrusion prevention, detection, tolerance and response are “passive” in response to network-based intrusions in that their countermeasures are limited to being local to the intrusion target and there is no automated, network-wide counteraction against detected intrusions. While they all play an important role in counteracting network-based intrusion, they do not, however, effectively address the root cause of the problem – intruders.
Procedures for Integrating Knowledge in a Speech Understanding System

T h i s paper d e s c r i b e s t h e p r o c e d u r e s f o r i n t e g r a t i n g knowledge f rom d i f f e r e n t s o u r c e s i n t h e SRI speech u n d e r s t a n d i n g s y s t e m . A language d e f i n i t i o n sys tem c o o r d i n a t e s — a t t h e ph rase l e v e l — i n f o r m a t i o n f rom s y n t a x , s e m a n t i c s and d i s c o u r s e i n t h e cou rse o f t h e i n t e r p r e t a t i o n o f a n u t t e r a n c e . The sys tem e x e c u t i v e uses t h e s e c o n t e x t u a l c o n s t r a i n t s i n a s s i g n i n g p r i o r i t i e s t o a l t e r n a t i v e i n t e r p r e t a t i o n s , c o m b i n i n g t o p d o w n , b o t t o m u p , and b i d i r e c t i o n a l s t r a t e g i e s a s r e q u i r e d E x p e r i m e n t a l r e s u l t s t h a t d e m o n s t r a t e t h e e f f e c t i v e n e s s o f c o n t e x t c h e c k i n g a r e d i s c u s s e d .
Polypyrrole and silver particles coated poly(ethylene terephthalate) nonwoven composite for electromagnetic interference shielding

A conductive polypyrrole/silver/poly(ethylene terephthalate) composite was prepared by the polymerization of pyrrole with AgNO3 oxidant in the presence of poly(ethylene terephthalate) nonwoven. The effect of AgNO3/pyrrole mol ratio and concentrations of the reactants was investigated on the polypyrrole/silver content and surface resistivity of the composite. The deposition of shiny metallic Ag particles was observed on the composite during the polymerization of pyrrole. The weight fraction of the Ag particles in the polypyrrole/silver contents of the composite was determined by thermogravimetric analysis. It was observed from scanning electron micrographs that the morphology of the polypyrrole/silver particles changed with the increase in the polypyrrole/silver contents of the composite. The electromagnetic shielding effectiveness as well as the absorption loss, reflection loss with the values of absorbance and reflectance, showing their contributions to the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness value of the composite were determined within the frequency range of 15–3000 MHz. An absorption dominant shielding was obtained with the value of 13–15.5 desibel for double coated composite.
Cooperative Mobile Robotics: Antecedents and Directions

There has been increased research interest in systems composed of multiple autonomous mobile robots exhibiting cooperative behavior. Groups of mobile robots are constructed, with an aim to studying such issues as group architecture, resource conflict, origin of cooperation, learning, and geometric problems. As yet, few applications of cooperative robotics have been reported, and supporting theory is still in its formative stages. In this paper, we give a critical survey of existing works and discuss open problems in this field, emphasizing the various theoretical issues that arise in the study of cooperative robotics. We describe the intellectual heritages that have guided early research, as well as possible additions to the set of existing motivations.
Beyond Syntactic Valence: FrameNet Markup of Example Sentences in a Slovenian-German Online Dictionary

This contribution focuses on the representation of syntactic and semantic valence in a bilingual electronic dictionary, Online SLO- DE-SLO. To overcome valence representation problems caused by cross- lingual divergences, FrameNet-style annotation is applied to usage ex- amples. Results and possible future directions are discussed.
A controlled experiment investigation on the impact of an instructional tool for personalized learning

We describe a controlled experiment concerning the use of a learning aid during the instructional procedure. The core issue of investigation is whether this instructional aid can augment the cognitive transfer of the learners by personalizing the offered knowledge. A controlled experiment was performed with the participation of 79 students. The results have shown that for the transfer of simple information this "lesson sheet" does not provide any statistically significant advantage, yet for complex information a statistically significant better performance is observed for the student group that used the tool.
Experiential Avoidance and Behavioral Disorders: A Functional Dimensional Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment

Syndromal classification is a well-developed diagnostic system but has failed to deliver on its promise of the identification of functional pathological processes. Functional analysis is tightly connected to treatment but has failed to develop testable, replicable classification systems. Functional diagnostic dimensions are suggested as a way to develop the functional classification approach, and experiential avoidance is described as 1 such dimension. A wide range of research is reviewed showing that many forms of psychopathology can be conceptualized as unhealthy efforts to escape and avoid emotions, thoughts, memories, and other private experiences. It is argued that experiential avoidance, as a functional diagnostic dimension, has the potential to integrate the efforts and findings of researchers from a wide variety of theoretical paradigms, research interests, and clinical domains and to lead to testable new approaches to the analysis and treatment of behavioral disorders.
Systematic Comparison of Molecular Conformations of H+,K+-ATPase Reveals an Important Contribution of the A-M2 Linker for the Luminal Gating*

Background: The gastric H+,K+-ATPase proton pump achieves gastric acid secretion. Results: A newly determined (SCH)E2·MgF structure represents a hybrid conformation of (SCH)E2·BeF and luminal-closed (Rb+)E2·AlF states. Conclusion: Comparison of E2P-related structures revealed that the A-M2 linker importantly contributes to conformational changes of the enzyme. Significance: A-M2 linker-mediated conformational change is conserved between H+,K+-ATPase and Ca2+-ATPase and perhaps other P-type ATPases. Gastric H+,K+-ATPase, an ATP-driven proton pump responsible for gastric acidification, is a molecular target for anti-ulcer drugs. Here we show its cryo-electron microscopy (EM) structure in an E2P analog state, bound to magnesium fluoride (MgF), and its K+-competitive antagonist SCH28080, determined at 7 Å resolution by electron crystallography of two-dimensional crystals. Systematic comparison with other E2P-related cryo-EM structures revealed that the molecular conformation in the (SCH)E2·MgF state is remarkably distinguishable. Although the azimuthal position of the A domain of the (SCH)E2·MgF state is similar to that in the E2·AlF (aluminum fluoride) state, in which the transmembrane luminal gate is closed, the arrangement of transmembrane helices in the (SCH)E2·MgF state shows a luminal-open conformation imposed on by bound SCH28080 at its luminal cavity, based on observations of the structure in the SCH28080-bound E2·BeF (beryllium fluoride) state. The molecular conformation of the (SCH)E2·MgF state thus represents a mixed overall structure in which its cytoplasmic and luminal half appear to be independently modulated by a phosphate analog and an antagonist bound to the respective parts of the enzyme. Comparison of the molecular conformations revealed that the linker region connecting the A domain and the transmembrane helix 2 (A-M2 linker) mediates the regulation of luminal gating. The mechanistic rationale underlying luminal gating observed in H+,K+-ATPase is consistent with that observed in sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase and other P-type ATPases and is most likely conserved for the P-type ATPase family in general.
Induction of dermal collagenesis, angiogenesis, and adipogenesis in human skin by injection of platelet-rich fibrin matrix.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the histological changes induced in human skin by injection of autologous platelet-rich fibrin matrix (PRFM). METHODS Four healthy adult volunteers were included in the study. Platelet-rich fibrin matrix was prepared from 9 mL of autologous blood using a proprietary system (Selphyl; Aesthetic Factors, Wayne, New Jersey) and injected into the deep dermis and immediate subdermis of the upper arms of subjects. Full-thickness skin biopsy specimens were taken from the treated areas over a 10-week period, and the specimens were processed for histological evaluation. RESULTS Findings from histological examination supported the clinical observation of soft-tissue augmentation. As early as 7 days after treatment, activated fibroblasts and new collagen deposition were noted and continued to be evident throughout the course of the study. Development of new blood vessels was noted by 19 days; also at this time, intradermal collections of adipocytes and stimulation of subdermal adipocytes were noted. These findings became more pronounced over the duration of the study, although the fibroblastic response became much less pronounced. No abnormal mitotic figures were observed at any point, and a very mild chronic inflammatory response was noted only at the earliest time points of the study. CONCLUSIONS Injection of PRFM into the deep dermis and subdermis of the skin stimulates a number of cellular changes that can be harnessed for use. Coupled with prior in vitro and in vivo studies, we now have a much clearer picture of the cellular effects of PRFM and its potential uses in facial plastic surgery. Further work is planned to more clearly elucidate the potential role of PRFM in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.
Large‐Scale Processing of Recombinant Retroviruses for Gene Therapy

Gene therapy is a new therapeutic modality with the potential of treating inherited and acquired diseases. Several viral and physicochemical vehicles have been used for the transfer of genes to mammalian cells, but recombinant retroviruses are used in the majority of gene therapy clinical trials today. In this communication, we review the major concerns associated with the large‐scale production and processing of retroviral particles. While some of the current processes for manufacturing recombinant proteins will be applicable to recombinant retroviruses, the instability, sensitivity to inhibitors, complexity, and size of retroviral particles require that new technologies be designed and evaluated. Here, we examine those issues critical to the design of strategies for production, concentration, and purification as well as formulation and storage of recombinant retroviruses. Processes for large‐scale manufacturing of recombinant retroviruses that can produce high gene transfer efficiencies will have significant impact on the clinical implementation of gene therapy.
Mechanical and Surface Properties of Initial and Working Aesthetic Orthodontic Archwires

The study aimed to compare mechanical properties and surface characteristics of initial and working aesthetic archwires with their conventional counterparts. High Aesthetic Sentalloy (full rhodium coating nickel-titanium; Dentsply GAC) represented the initial aesthetic archwires; and FLI TRU-CHROME (labial PTFE-coated stainless steel; RMO) as the working aesthetic archwires; together with their conventional counterparts were analysed. A three point bending test was conducted using a universal testing machine (AGS-X SERIES, Shimadzu, Japan) to determine the load-deflection characteristics of archwires. Surface hardness was evaluated by Vickers microhardness test (HMV-FA, Shimadzu, Japan). A 3D Optical Surface Texture Analyzer (ALICONA, InfiniteFocus Real3D, Belgium) and a Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM, FEI Quanta 250, USA) were used for surface evaluation. Results showed that loaddeflection characteristics of High Aesthetic Sentalloy archwires did not differ from its control, whereas FLI TRU-CHROME archwires exhibited higher loading and unloading forces than its counterpart. No statistically significant difference in surface hardness was found between FLI TRU-CHROME and its control archwires. The coating surfaces of both aesthetic archwires were rougher than the non-coated conventional archwires, with similar roughness between non-coated surface of FLI TRU-CHROME archwires and its counterpart. FLI TRU-CHROME archwires showed a distinct coating thickness but coating layer is undefined in High Aesthetic Sentalloy archwires. In conclusion, the aesthetic rhodium coated nickel titanium archwire has similar mechanical properties as control nickel titanium archwire without being adversely affected by the addition of the coating layer. The aesthetic coated PTFE stainless steel archwire has higher load response which could be an advantage as rigid wire in working stage of orthodontic treatment. Based on their performance, their use could be recommended in cases where aesthetic aspect is crucial and where the friction aspect is not critical as their surface roughness values increased.
The RNAs of hepatitis delta virus are copied by RNA polymerase II in nuclear homogenates

Human hepatitis delta virus has a single-stranded circular RNA genome that replicates by RNA-directed RNA synthesis. The virus encodes only a single protein, the delta antigen, which both is small (22 kDa) and lacks sequence homology to known RNA polymerases, suggesting that the virus employs a cellular polymerase for replication. Consistent with this suggestion, we have used homogenized nuclei from a human hepatoma cell line, HepG2, to demonstrate RNA-directed RNA synthesis from both genomic hepatitis delta virus RNA and its complement, the antigenomic RNA. RNA polymerase II was responsible for this transcription because the reaction was inhibited both by low doses of alpha-amanitin and by a monoclonal antibody specific for polymerase II. In addition, it was found that the majority of the RNA products were processed, presumably by self-cleavage and self-ligation, to produce covalently closed circular molecules.
Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride in Familial Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common neurological disorder characterized by nocturnal motor restlessness accompanied by lower limb paresthesias usually alleviated by activity.1 A dopaminergic dysfunction has been hypothesized.1,2 Several classes of drugs showed beneficial effects on RLS, and ferrum replacement may be effective in iron-deficient patients.2 Here, we present the case of three related patients suffering from RLS, successfully treated with hydroxyzine hydrochloride, an antihistamine with anticholinergic properties.