Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Synvisc® in knee osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative disease of synovial joints that is characterized by the deterioration of hyaluronan and other constituents of hyaline cartilage, resulting in intermittent pain, swelling, inflammation and varying degrees of functional loss. Viscosupplementation is one of the treatment options for OA-related pain and has been used successfully for several years. Hylan GF-20 (Synvisc®) is a viscosupplement composed of two cross-linked hylan polymers that form a high-molecular-weight hyaluronan compound. Numerous systemic reviews, clinical trials and meta-analyses have established the efficacy of Synvisc for OA knee pain. In comparison with multiple control groups, multiple active comparators and other hyaluronic acid treatments, it has provided equal or better pain relief. Synvisc is effective in repeat treatment cycles and in delaying total knee replacement. Overall, Synvisc has proved efficacious in the treatment of knee OA and has a well-established track record of safety, ef.
Indications for Penetrating Keratoplasty in Iran

Purpose: To determine the indications for penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in Iran. Methods: All eye bank records of patients who had undergone PK between 1994 and 2004 at ophthalmic centers throughout the country were reviewed. Results: During this 11-year period, a total of 19,668 cases were operated on. The most common indication for PK was keratoconus (n = 6787, 34.51%), followed by corneal opacity and scar (n = 3674, 18.68%), pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (n = 1808, 9.19%), corneal dystrophies (n = 1272, 6.47%), aphakic bullous keratopathy (n = 1198, 6.09%), and regraft (n = 1038, 5.28%). There was an increasing trend in rates of keratoconus and pseudophakic bullous keratopathy and a decreasing trend in aphakic bullous keratopathy over this period (P < 0.001). No significant change of trend was noted in the corneal opacity and scar, regraft, and corneal dystrophy groups. Conclusions: Keratoconus is the most common indication for PK in Iran.
Renal Response to Amino Acid Infusion in Essential Hypertension

In the present study, we evaluated the renal response to a 4-hour infusion of amino acids in essential hypertensive patients, as well as the effects that dietary sodium restriction and enalapril (a converting enzyme inhibitor) had on this renal response. During normal sodium intake, amino acid infusion significantly increased renal plasma flow from 383±58 to 478±51 mL/min and glomerular filtration rate from 82±8 to 100±13 mL/min. All these effects were abolished when the patients received a low sodium diet (40 mmol/d) for 3 days before the amino acid infusion. The administration of enalapril to the patients during sodium restriction restored the amino acid-induced increment in renal plasma flow (from 388±35 to 537±48 mL/min) and glomerular filtration rate (from 88±9 to 103±10 mL/min). Mean arterial pressure remained unaltered under all experimental conditions. The results show that in patients with essential hypertension dietary sodium restriction prevents amino acid-induced increments in glomerular filtration rate and renal plasma flow and that this effect is restored during the simultaneous administration of enalapril.
Pathways to specialising in animal welfare

Safeguarding animal welfare is an important aspect of the day-to-day work of almost all veterinarians; however, only some choose to pursue specific postgraduate qualifications in this area. Andrew Knight describes some of the routes to specialisation that are available around the world, highlighting in particular how suitably experienced individuals can currently seek accreditation in Europe and the USA without undertaking a formal programme of study
Cumulative association of five genetic variants with prostate cancer.

BACKGROUND Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in five chromosomal regions--three at 8q24 and one each at 17q12 and 17q24.3--have been associated with prostate cancer. Each SNP has only a moderate association, but when SNPs are combined, the association may be stronger. METHODS We evaluated 16 SNPs from five chromosomal regions in a Swedish population (2893 subjects with prostate cancer and 1781 control subjects) and assessed the individual and combined association of the SNPs with prostate cancer. RESULTS Multiple SNPs in each of the five regions were associated with prostate cancer in single SNP analysis. When the most significant SNP from each of the five regions was selected and included in a multivariate analysis, each SNP remained significant after adjustment for other SNPs and family history. Together, the five SNPs and family history were estimated to account for 46% of the cases of prostate cancer in the Swedish men we studied. The five SNPs plus family history had a cumulative association with prostate cancer (P for trend, 3.93x10(-28)). In men who had any five or more of these factors associated with prostate cancer, the odds ratio for prostate cancer was 9.46 (P=1.29x10(-8)), as compared with men without any of the factors. The cumulative effect of these variants and family history was independent of serum levels of prostate-specific antigen at diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS SNPs in five chromosomal regions plus a family history of prostate cancer have a cumulative and significant association with prostate cancer.
Des rédactions web gouvernées par les données

Engendrees par les capacites d’interactivite et de mesures en temps reel du web, les metriques de l’audience sont desormais presentes dans la majeure partie des redactions de la presse en ligne. Solutions logicielles destinees a piloter l’activite editoriale, ces instruments ont fait irruption dans les salles de redactions sous la forme de tableaux de bord de suivi en temps reel du comportement de l’audience sur le site. A l’interface de l’offre et de la demande sur le marche de l’actualite en ligne, les metriques participent a cadrer la production editoriale des redactions web. Dans cet article, nous considerons les metriques comme des agents de transformations organisationnelles et editoriales du journalisme en ligne.
Identification and Characterization of the Murine and Human Gene Encoding the Tuberoinfundibular Peptide of 39 Residues.

By screening public databases, we identified human and mouse genomic DNA clones that encode the tuberoinfundibular peptide of 39 residues (TIP39). The TIP39 precursor is encoded by at least three exons; a noncoding exon U1, exon 1 encoding residues -61 (initiator methionine) to -19 of the leader sequence, and exon 2 encoding residues -18 to -1 and residues +1 to +39. Secreted human TIP39 is identical to the previously isolated bovine TIP39, whereas mouse TIP39 differs by four amino acids. Phylogenetic analyses suggested that TIP39, PTH, and PTHrP may have evolved from a common ancestor. Synthetic human and mouse TIP39 showed indistinguishable potencies [EC(50): 0.54 (human) vs. 0.74 nM (mouse)] at the human PTH2-receptor stably expressed in LLCPK(1) cells; furthermore, TIP-(9-39) was an inhibitor of cAMP accumulation stimulated by either [Tyr(34)]PTH(1-34)amide or human/bovine TIP39. In the mouse, an approximately 4.5-kb mRNA encoding TIP39 was identified by Northern blot analysis in testis and, less abundantly, in liver and kidney, whereas other tissues revealed additional smaller transcripts. In situ hybridizations revealed TIP39 expression in seminiferous tubuli and several brain regions, including nucleus ruber, nucleus centralis pontis, and nucleus subparafascicularis thalami. Because PTH2 receptor expression was previously shown to be highest in brain, pancreas, and testis, our findings are consistent with the notion that TIP39 is a neuropeptide which may also have a role in spermatogenesis.
Treatment of behavioural and psychiatric symptoms in dementia: implications of recent safety warnings

ABSTRACT Atypical antipsychotics are commonly used off-label to treat behavioural and psychiatric symptoms in dementia (BPSD), particularly in elderly care homes. Much of this use is inappropriate, and trials have shown an increased likelihood of serious cerebrovascular adverse events (CVAEs) such as stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) in elderly patients. The aetiology of this risk is not known, but may be related to metabolic effects and excess weight gain. Based on a review of published trials with risperidone and olanzapine that shows a three-fold increase in stroke risk in elderly patients with dementia, regulators in Europe and the USA now recommend against using these agents for behavioural control, particularly in patients with a history of cerebrovascular disease. When making prescribing decisions, physicians should pay careful attention to risk versus benefit with psychotropics. Antipsychotics should be regarded only as rescue medications for acute-onset (over hours or days) or for severe chronic BPSD, or used in patients who are aggressive and/or represent a danger to themselves or others. If atypical antipsychotics are prescribed, physicians should screen for risk factors for both stroke and cardiovascular disease when initiating treatment, and regular monitoring should be undertaken if patients with chronic behavioural problems receive antipsychotic maintenance therapy. International guidelines are now required that direct prescribers in the appropriate use of alternative therapies for BPSD. Cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs), particularly rivastigmine, can delay the onset and reduce the severity of neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia, and decrease the requirement for antipsychotic and other psychotropic medications. Evidence suggests that they may be more appropriate for the control of chronic (over weeks to months) mild-to-moderate BPSD.
Intelligent Playful Environments for Animals

We are evolving towards an interconnected and ubiquitous world, where digital devices and interfaces progressively adapt themselves to fit our needs and ease our daily activities. Although we coexist with plenty of animal species, such as our pets, we are approaching the evolution of technology in a strictly human-centric manner. A new field in Computer Science, called Animal-Computer Interaction (ACI), aims at filling this technological gap by developing systems and interfaces specifically designed for animals. Supporting animals' natural behavior and habits with suitable technology could improve both humans and animals' wellbeing. As a consequence, this doctoral research aims to explore, design and develop animal-centered intelligent systems that focus on enhancing one of the most natural animal behaviors: play. Therefore, the main goal of this research is to expand ACI with the ability of automatically manage and adapt animals play activity in order to improve their wellbeing.
Trajectories of individual WWW usage: implications for electronic commerce

The number and variety of Web sites offering information, commerce and services has multiplied since 1995. The number of users making use of the Internet and the Web has also grown tremendously. Yet at the level of the individual, little is known about the trajectory of change over time in number of visits to Web sites. Drawing upon recent advances in semi-parametric, group-based statistical modeling, we examine whether there are distinctive clusters of such trajectories. Using longitudinal data from 1995-1998 on visits to distinctive Web sites, we provide answers to these questions. We find that WWW users can be clustered into four groups with distinct trajectories of use. These groups achieve saturation in their extent of Web usage as measured in the number of distinct Web sites they visit over time. We also develop demographic profiles of these different user groups. These results have important implications for Internet marketing.
Calculation of maximal applicable gain for the generalized and the direct method for extreme impedances measurement

A mathematical approach for determining the maximal applicable gain of amplifiers, that are used in two recently introduced methods for measurement of extreme input impedances using a common vector network analyzer (VNA) — the generalized method and the direct method — is presented. These two measurement methods exhibit outstanding measurement sensitivity for extreme impedance values — impedances significantly higher or lower than the 50Ω reference impedance of common measurement systems. The measurement sensitivity is better when gain of the used amplifiers is higher. However, the gain is limited by nonlinearity of the amplifiers and the receivers of the vector network analyzer. Therefore, the gain calculation is derived to make possible to fully exploit the capabilities of the measurement methods without loosing accuracy due to nonlinear effects. An example of calculation for one experimental setup is also presented.
Analysis of SSR Performance of TCSC Control Schemes Using a Modular High Bandwidth Discrete-Time Dynamic Model

Subsynchronous resonance (SSR) performance of various control schemes of a thyristor controlled series compensator (TCSC) has been studied in the previous literature using digital simulation based analyses. With the availability of a modular, high bandwidth (six-sample per cycle), discrete-time model of a TCSC, accurate eigen-analysis of a TCSC compensated system has become feasible. Therefore, we revisit the issue of SSR performance in order to gain additional insight provided by this analytical model. We use the model to assess fixed firing angle delay (FFAD) and synchronous voltage reversal (SVR) under different situations. The performance of synchronization schemes and an output feedback subsynchronous damping controller (SSDC) is also evaluated. The derivation of the model is outlined and validated by comparing the results of eigen-analysis with those obtained by detailed digital simulation.
Novel translinear-based multi-output FTFN

A novel circuit configuration for realizing multi-output four-terminal floating nullor (FTFN) in bipolar monolithic integrated circuit form is described. The circuit is simple and based on the use of an improved translinear cell type circuit. which provide wide bandwidth and dynamic range. The characteristics of this circuit are confirmed by HSPICE simulation results. The performance of the FTFN-based current-mode and inverse filters are also included.
Wafer level processing on re-built wafer for chip stacking

Chip stacking has emerged as the best solution to reduce the packaging size (Karnezos, 2004). Several approaches are proposed by companies and laboratories and each of them presents specific advantages and drawbacks (Tummala, 2004). Today, major 3D applications are stacked memory DRAM, SRAM or flash. Moreover, cost acts as a brake on 3D expansion in SiP and further developments are necessary to reduce the packaging cost. One clearly identified way is to perform collective processes. New developments on wafer level packaging and 3D packaging are lead in a European project (called Walpack) (Poupon, 2004; Souriau, 2005) to fulfil the requirement of the company 3D-PLUS. The proposed technology aims to realise 3D modules, as 3D-PLUS already produces, but using ultra thin components inside. To realise such module, the original approach consist in reconstituting a wafer with the active sides aligned in the same plane, embedded in a resin which gives the wafer its mechanical consistency. The known good re-built chips are then stacked and 3D interconnected by means of the patented 3D-PLUS process
Preliminary study of the effects of condensed barley distillers soluble on rumen fermentation and plasma metabolites in Japanese Black cows.

In Japan, condensed barley distillers soluble (CBDS) is a widely known liquor byproduct that contains a high level of protein and is used as a supplementary protein feed for cattle. The present study evaluated the effects of CBDS feed on rumen fermentation and plasma metabolites in Japanese Black cows. Applying a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design, nine cows were offered CBDS and hay (CBDS-t), soy bean meal and hay (Soybean-t) and only hay (Hay-t) over 35 days. We collected ruminal fluid and plasma just before feeding and at 3 h after feeding. The concentrations of propionate and butyrate in the rumen before feeding were lower in the CBDS-t than in the Soybean-t group (P < 0.05). However, after 3 h, the concentrations were higher in the CBDS-t than in the Soybean-t and Hay-t groups (P < 0.05). Although, there were no differences in the compositions (% mol) of propionate and butyrate in the rumen and the concentration of plasma β-hydroxybutyric acid before feeding between treatments, after 3 h they were significantly higher in the CBDS-t than in the Soybean-t and Hay-t groups (P < 0.05). These results indicate that feeding CBDS promotes rumen fermentation and butyrate metabolism.
Current status of biomarkers in head and neck cancer

As our understanding of HNSCC increases so has biomarker development. HPV16 integration is a significant marker of favorable prognosis and response to therapy for HNSCC. EGFR‐amplification and overexpression is a poor‐prognostic indicator. For premalignant lesions, LOH of 3p&9p21 loci confers an elevated risk of malignant transformation. As molecular targets are identified, these will be candidates for biomarkers for detection, diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy. Validation of these biomarkers requires demonstration of independence of significance beyond known biomarkers. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;97:640–643. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lower Beclin 1 downregulates HER2 expression to enhance tamoxifen sensitivity and predicts a favorable outcome for ER positive breast cancer

Tamoxifen(TAM) is one of the most effective endocrine treatment for estrogen receptor(ER)-positive breast cancer, however drug resistance greatly limits benefit of it. Our purpose is to uncover the role of Beclin 1 in tamoxifen resistance and prognosis of ER positive breast cancer. We established a tamoxifen resistant ER-positive breast cancer cell subline MCF-7R presenting with higher Beclin 1 and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2(HER2) levels than MCF-7. Silencing Beclin 1 decreased levels of HER2 and significantly promoted TAM sensitivity of MCF-7 and MCF-7R in vitro. Overexpression of HER2 could reverse TAM sensitivity, which was formerly increased in Beclin 1 downregulated cell. Beclin 1 level was not only positively correlated with level of HER2 but also negatively correlated with overall survival of ER-positive breast cancer patients. Using bioinformatic methods, Beclin 1 mRNA was found to be negatively correlated with overall survival in breast cancer patients receiving TAM treatment. This study indicated for the first time that lower HER2 expression by Beclin 1 downregulation contributes to alteration of tamoxifen sensitivity and low Beclin 1 predicts favorable outcome in ER-positive breast cancer.
Improving Transition From Pediatric to Adult Cystic Fibrosis Care: Lessons From a National Survey of Current Practices

OBJECTIVES. More than 500000 adolescents with special health care needs age into adulthood each year in the United States, and there is growing recognition of the need for support of their transition to adult-oriented health care. Because of improved survival, cystic fibrosis has experienced this increasing transition need, and cystic fibrosis policy leaders responded by mandating the transition of adults with cystic fibrosis to adult-focused cystic fibrosis care programs by 2000. The primary objective of this study was to characterize in detail recent transition practices at US cystic fibrosis programs, to identify areas for improvement and to serve as a model for other diseases. A secondary objective of this study was to develop and validate a survey for formal assessment of transition practices. METHODS. A 105-question survey on key aspects of transition was administered to cystic fibrosis care team members from all 195 US Cystic Fibrosis Care programs. Rates of adherence to recommended components of transition care were measured. RESULTS. A total of 448 surveys were obtained from 170 (87%) of 195 cystic fibrosis programs. Although transfer of care occurs at a median age of 19 years, initial discussion of transition does not occur until a median age of 17 years, limiting time to foster self-care skills. Only half of programs consistently perform a transition readiness assessment, 28% of centers offer visits focused on transition, and <10% have a written list of desirable self-management skills. CONCLUSIONS. There is significant variability in transition support provided to young adults with cystic fibrosis, but there are simple steps that may lead to more consistent delivery of transition services. Methods of assessment and lessons learned from transitioning young adults at US cystic fibrosis programs may serve to improve transition for individuals with other childhood diseases.
Fe3O4-TiO2 and Fe3O4-SiO2 Core-shell Powders Synthesized from Industrially Processed Magnetite (Fe3O4) Microparticles

The interest for core-shells has been increased in the recent years due to their improved and modifiable properties. In this work, Fe3O4-TiO2 and Fe3O4-SiO2 core-shells were successfully synthesized from an industrially produced magnetite-rich powder with microand nanometric particle sizes, superparamagnetic behavior and saturation magnetization of 49 emu/g. The reverse microemulsion method was used to the synthesis of these core-shells. X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, electron microscopy (SEM-TEM), and magnetization curves were used to characterize the solids. Core-shells with different morphology and size, coating of crystalline TiO2 (anatase) or amorphous silica, and superparamagnetic performance at room temperature (300 K) were obtained.
Attitudes on fertility issues in breast cancer patients: an Italian survey

Abstract Background: Fertility issues should be discussed with young women before the start of any anticancer treatment. The study is aimed to investigate the attitude on fertility among Italian oncologists and breast surgeons dealing with BCa, and to report the consensus achieved on specific statements. Methods: One hundred and sixty-two panelists anonymously expressed an opinion through a web-based platform on 19 statements based on the Delphi method. Results: Ninety-one percent of oncologists considered important to discuss with patients about fertility issues and 83% believed estrogens could stimulate the growth of hidden cancer cells in ER+ tumors. Difficulties in accessing fertility preservation procedures were mainly due to patients’ reluctance, but also to lack of coordination with the assisted reproduction specialists. No full consensus was reached on the prognostic role of pregnancy after BCa. Fifty-four percent of oncologists declared that pregnancy does not affect oncologic prognosis. Treatment with GnRHa during chemotherapy was considered the only mean for preserving ovarian function. Conclusions: Fertility preservation in BCa patients is a well-accepted practice among Italian oncologists. A poor knowledge of this specific issue emerged from the survey, even if a certain degree of agreement was observed on most fertility-related issues.