Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Association of quality of life and job stress in occupational workforce of India: Findings from a cross-sectional study on software professionals

Background: There is limited scientific evidence on the relationship of job stress with quality of life (QoL). Purpose: This study aims to explore different domains of job stress affecting IT/ITES professionals and estimate the levels of stress that these professionals endure to reach positive levels of QoL given that other determinants operating between these two variables are accounted for. Materials and Methods: We estimated levels of stress that software professionals would have endured to reach positive levels of QoL considering that other factors operating between these two variables are accounted for. The study participants comprised 1071 software professionals who were recruited using a mixed sampling method. Participants answered a self-administered questionnaire containing questions on job stress, QoL, and confounders. Results: All the domains (physical, psychological, social, and environmental) of QoL showed statistically significant positive associations with increasing stress domains of autonomy, physical infrastructure, work environment, and emotional factors. Conclusions: The respondents clearly found the trade-off of higher stress to be acceptable for the improved QoL they enjoyed. It is also possible that stress might actually be responsible for improvements in QoL either directly or through mediation of variables such as personal values and aspirations. "Yerkes-Dodson law" and stress appraisal models of Folkman and Lazarus may explain the plausible positive association.
Roles of Mac-1 and glycoprotein IIb/IIIa integrins in leukocyte–platelet aggregate formation: Stabilization by Mac-1 and inhibition by GpIIb/IIIa blockers

Circulating platelet–leukocyte hetero-aggregates play an important role in acute cardiovascular events and hypersensitivity reactions. The association involves the receptor families of selectins and integrin. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of CD11b/CD18 integrin (Mac-1) in hetero-aggregate formation and search for a counter-receptor on platelets ready to interact with Mac-1. As a model of leukocytes, Mac-1 presenting Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells were used to evaluate the role of Mac-1 in hetero-aggregate formation. The amount of CHO cell-bound active and inactive platelets was measured by flow cytometry, while the counter-receptors on platelets were identified via using blocking antibodies. We observed significant platelet adhesion on Mac-1-bearing cells when platelet-rich plasma or activated platelets were present. Inactive platelets did not adhere to Mac-1-bearing cells. Addition of fibrinogen, a ligand of Mac-1 significantly increased platelet binding. CD40L was demonstrated to act similarly on Mac-1. Inhibition of platelet GpIIb/IIIa completely abolished CHO cell–platelet aggregation. In our study, we have shown for the first time that Mac-1 mediates the formation of hetero-aggregates without selectin tethering when Mac-1 ligands such as fibrinogen or CD40L are present and blockers of platelet GpIIb/IIIa are able to diminish this interaction.
The costs and benefits of Option B+ for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV

Objective:Most countries follow WHO 2010 guidelines for the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV using either Option A or B for women not yet eligible for antiretroviral therapy (ART). Both of these approaches involve the use of antiretrovirals during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Some countries have adopted a new strategy, Option B+, in which HIV-positive pregnant women are started immediately on ART and continued for life. Option B+ is more costly than Options A or B, but provides additional health benefits. In this article, we estimate the additional costs and effectiveness of Option B+. Methods:We developed a deterministic model to simulate births, breastfeeding, and HIV infection in women in four countries, Kenya, Zambia, South Africa, and Vietnam that differ in fertility rate, birth interval, age at first birth, and breastfeeding patterns, but have similar age at HIV infection. We estimated the total PMTCT costs and new child infections under Options A, B, and B+, and measured cost–effectiveness as the incremental PMTCT-related costs per child infection averted. We included adult sexual transmissions averted from ART, the corresponding costs saved, and estimated the total incremental cost per transmission (child and adult) averted. Results:When considering PMTCT-related costs and child infections, Option B+ was the most cost-effective strategy costing between $6000 and $23 000 per infection averted compared with Option A. Option B+ averted more child infections compared with Option B in all four countries and cost less than Option B in Kenya and Zambia. When including adult sexual transmissions averted, Option B+ cost less and averted more infections than Options A and B.
Perceptions of Risk Stratification Workflows in Primary Care

Risk stratification (RS) in primary care is frequently used by policy-makers, payers, and health systems; the process requires risk assessment for adverse health outcomes across a population to assign patients into risk tiers and allow care management (CM) resources to be targeted effectively. Our objective was to understand the approach to and perception of RS in primary care practices. An online survey was developed, tested, and administered to 148 representatives of 37 primary care practices engaged in RS varying in size, location and ownership. The survey assessed practices’ approach to, perception of, and confidence in RS, and its effect on subsequent CM activities. We examined psychometric properties of the survey to determine validity and conducted chi-square analyses to determine the association between practice characteristics and confidence and agreement with risk scores. The survey yielded a 68% response rate (100 respondents). Overall, participants felt moderately confident in their risk scores (range 41–53.8%), and moderately to highly confident in their subsequent CM workflows (range 46–68%). Respondents from small and independent practices were more likely to have higher confidence and agreement with their RS approaches and scores (p < 0.01). Confidence levels were highest, however, when practices incorporated human review into their RS processes (p < 0.05). This trend was not affected by respondents’ professional roles. Additional work from a broad mixed-methods effort will add to our understanding of RS implementation processes and outcomes.
Hybrid ensembles of decision trees and Bayesian network for class imbalance problem

Class imbalance problem is the main issue causing unsatisfactory outcome in classification. Any type of classification used still cannot improve the result. Therefore, in this research we propose a new hybrid ensemble model based on AdaBoost.M2 and adopt SMOTE algorithm to solve the class imbalance problem in order to predict the probability of term deposit from bank customers. The proposed hybrid ensemble model consist of diverse based classifiers which are Bayesian Network, Alternating Decision Tree, Tree-J48, and REPTree (Reduced-Error Pruning). From the experimental results, the proposed model can achieve the highest performance comparing to normal ensemble models and ensemble models that use majority class reduction, and finally generates the results of 91.5% sensitivity, 100% specificity, and 96.3% accuracy.
A PSO algorithm for the economic load dispatch including a renewable wind energy

Economic load dispatch among thermal units is one of the most important problems in power systems operation. Usually so called equal marginal cost criterion is adopted to this calculation. Recently global trend of utilizing more and more renewable energy such as wind power makes this problem more important than ever. With the continuing search for alternatives to conventional energy sources, it is necessary to include wind energy generators (WEG) in the ELD problem. This paper presents a solution of economic load dispatch incorporation wind energy using a particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO). The effect of wind energy generators system inclusion on ELD problem is investigated, with the source wind susceptible to short duration variations, which is the uncertainty of wind speed around a short-duration- stable mean value. A 6 and 20 unit test system is resolved using PSO to illustrate the variation in the optimal cost, losses, and system-λ with the variation of short-duration-stable mean wind speed.
Investigation of the Relationship Between Tracking Accuracy and Tracking Distance of a Novel Magnetic Tracking System

The position and orientation of an object embedding with a permanent magnet can be acquired in real time via a magnetic tracking system. However, one characteristic of the magnetic tracking technique is its varied tracking accuracy along with the tracking distance. Hence, this paper tends to investigate the relationship between the tracking accuracy and the distance from the magnet to the sensor array by both simulations and experiments. Results show that the relationship is expressed as a cubic polynomial equation, and that the equation coefficients are related to the properties of the magnet and the signal-to-noise ratio of the sensor outputs. When the magnet is located at a distance from 36 to 96 mm above the sensor array, the system had the best performance, while average localization and orientation errors were 0.70 mm and 1.22°, respectively. Thus, this system achieved the best tracking accuracy compared with the state-of-the-art of magnetic tracking systems. This paper is helpful to the researchers who want to implement a magnetic tracking system or need to know clearly the valid tracking distance of a magnetic tracking system.
Functional Characterization and Molecular Identification of Vitamin C Transporter (SVCT2) in Human Corneal Epithelial (HCEC) and Retinal Pigment Epithelial (D407) Cells

Abstract Purpose: The main goal of this study is to investigate the existence of sodium-dependent vitamin C transport system (SVCT2) and to define time-dependent uptake mechanism and intracellular regulation of ascorbic acid (AA) in human corneal epithelial (HCEC) and human retinal pigment epithelial (D407) cells. Methods: Uptake of [14C] AA was studied in HCEC and D407 cells. Functional aspects of [14C] AA uptake were studied in the presence of different concentrations of unlabeled AA, pH, temperature, metabolic inhibitors, substrates and structural analogs. Molecular identification of SVCT2 was examined with reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results: Uptake of [14C] AA was observed to be sodium, chloride, temperature, pH and energy-dependent in both cell lines. [14C] AA uptake was found to be saturable, with Km values of 46.14 ± 6.03 and 47.26 ± 3.24 μM and Vmax values of 17.34 ± 0.58 and 31.86 ± 0.56 pmol/min/mg protein, across HCEC and D407 cells, respectively. The process is inhibited by structural analogs (L-AA and D-Iso AA) but not by structurally unrelated substrates (glucose and PAHA). Ca++/calmodulin and protein kinase pathways play an important role in modulating uptake of AA. A 626 bp band corresponding to a vitamin C transporter (SVCT2) has been identified by RT-PCR analysis in both the cell lines. Conclusion: This research article reports regarding the ascorbic acid uptake mechanism, kinetics and regulation by sodium dependent vitamin C transporter (SVCT2) in HCEC and D407 cells. Also, SVCT2 can be utilized for targeted delivery in enhancing ocular permeation and bioavailability of highly potent ophthalmic drugs.
The event-related potential effects of cognitive conflict in a Chinese character-generation task

High-density event-related potentials were recorded to examine the electrophysiologic correlates of the evaluation of possible answers provided during a Chinese character-generation task. We examined three conditions: the character given was what participants initially generated (Consistent answer), the character given was correct (Unexpected Correct answer), or it was incorrect (Unexpected Incorrect answer). Results showed that Unexpected Correct and Incorrect answers elicited a more negative event-related potential deflection (N320) than did Consistent answers between 300 and 400 ms. Dipole source analysis of difference waves (Unexpected Correct or Incorrect minus Consistent answers) localized the generator of the N320 in the anterior cingulate cortex. The N320 therefore likely reflects the cognitive change or conflict between old and new ways of thinking while identifying and judging characters.
Processing Environment and Ingredients Are Both Sources of Leuconostoc gelidum, Which Emerges as a Major Spoiler in Ready-To-Eat Meals

ABSTRACT Mesophilic and psychrotrophic organism viable counts, as well as high-throughput 16S rRNA gene-based pyrosequencing, were performed with the aim of elucidating the origin of psychrotrophic lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in a ready-to-eat (RTE) meal manufacturing plant. The microbial counts of the products at the end of the shelf life were greatly underestimated when mesophilic incubation was implemented due to overlooked, psychrotrophic members of the LAB. Pseudomonas spp. , Enterobacteriaceae, Streptococcaceae, and Lactobacillus spp. constituted the most widespread operational taxonomic units (OTUs), whereas Leuconostoc gelidum was detected as a minor member of the indigenous microbiota of the food ingredients and microbial community of the processing environment, albeit it colonized samples at almost every sampling point on the premises. However, L. gelidum became the most predominant microbe at the end of the shelf life. The ability of L. gelidum to outgrow notorious, spoilage-related taxa like Pseudomonas, Brochothrix, and Lactobacillus underpins its high growth dynamics and severe spoilage character under refrigeration temperatures. The use of predicted metagenomes was useful for observation of putative gene repertoires in the samples analyzed in this study. The end products grouped in clusters characterized by gene profiles related to carbohydrate depletion presumably associated with a fast energy yield, a finding which is consistent with the fastidious nature of highly competitive LAB that dominated at the end of the shelf life. The present study showcases the detrimental impact of contamination with psychrotrophic LAB on the shelf life of packaged and cold-stored foodstuffs and the long-term quality implications for production batches once resident microbiota are established in the processing environment.
Early patellofemoral osteoarthritis caused by an osteochondral defect after retrograde solid nailing of the femur in sheep.

BACKGROUND Retrograde femoral nailing (RFN) is an increasingly used technique for internal fixation of femoral fractures. Geometrically and empirically, the nail entry zone is close to the center of the femoral groove, causing concern about the development of patellofemoral osteoarthritis. METHODS We studied the effect of opening the distal femur through the femoral groove on the development of osteoarthritis in sheep after retrograde reamed insertion of a solid titanium nail into the femoral canal. Knees were radiographically and macroscopically studied for the presence of osteophytes and signs of cartilage degeneration. Controls underwent the same procedure without opening the femoral groove. RESULTS The study group showed time-dependent macroscopic and radiographic signs of osteoarthritis with predominant involvement of the patellofemoral joint. CONCLUSION RFN can cause patellofemoral osteoarthritis. Care should be exercised to use RFN in isolated supracondylar or shaft fractures of the femur in healthy young adults.
Differentiated Participation in Social Videogaming

Social videogaming provides opportunities for individuals not only to engage directly in active gameplay but also to interact indirectly from the sidelines. We present a study of the differentiated nature of participation in gaming based on field observations of six families playing physical videogames in their homes. Building on existing theoretical frameworks, we distinguish three kinds of durable roles: players, audience members and bystanders. Going beyond this, we also identify a rich variety of spontaneous and ephemeral roles among the audience: spectators, orchestrators, managers, coaches, directors, puppeteers, commentators, hecklers, supporters, documenters, shadow players, and cheerleaders. We argue that through this richer understanding of the differentiated nature of participation in videogaming, designers might expand the reach of their games and respond to the potential for new experiences in the broad situation of domestic gaming.
Two-color Microarray Experiments

Summary Objectives: Microarray gene expression experiments have a complex technical background. Knowledge about certain technical details is inevitable to judge alternatives for both experimental design and analysis. Here, we introduce the necessary details for the so-called two-color microarray experiments and review major sources of technical variance. Methods: We follow the sequence of experimental steps during a typical two-color microarray gene expression experiment, stressing decisive points in the choice of technique, experimental handling and biophysical basics. We point out where technical variation is to be expected. Results: Tissue storage, RNA extraction techniques, as well as the microarray hybridization represent major components of technical variance to be considered. Depending on the possibilities for access to the biomedical material under investigation, choice of amplification and labeling techniques can also be decisive to avoid additional technical variance. The two-color microarray experimental approach seeks to avoid a group of probe-level technical biases making use of the advantages of an incomplete block-design. Conclusions: It is worth to know the major sources of technical variance during the typical experimental sequence, both for choice of experimental design and techniques of molecular biology, as well as for the understanding of quality control and normalization approaches. Here, early investments pay at the level of reduced technical variance, allowing for enhanced detection levels for the effects under investigation.
Use of nursing homes in the care of persons with severe mental illness: 1985 to 1995.

OBJECTIVE The study examined patterns of care for persons with mental illness in nursing homes in the United States from 1985 to 1995. During that period resident populations in public mental hospitals declined, and legislation aimed at diverting psychiatric patients from nursing homes was enacted. METHODS Estimates of the number of current residents with a mental illness diagnosis and those with a severe mental illness were derived from the 1985 and 1995 National Nursing Home Surveys and the 1987 and 1996 Medical Expenditure Surveys. Trends by age group and changes in the mentally ill population over this period were assessed. RESULTS The number of nursing home residents diagnosed with dementia-related illnesses and depressive illnesses increased, but the number with schizophrenia-related diagnoses declined. The most substantial declines occurred among residents under age 65; more than 60 percent fewer had any primary psychiatric diagnosis or severe mental illness. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest a reduced role for nursing homes in caring for persons with severe mental illness, especially those who are young and do not have comorbid physical conditions. Overall, it appears that nursing homes play a relatively minor role in the present system of mental health services for all but elderly persons with dementia.
In Vitro Haemocompatibility Evaluation of PET Surfaces Using the Quartz Crystal Microbalance Technique

Owing to the complex influences of several experimental conditions on the in vitro alteration of blood, there is still a lack of viable in vitro tests and methods for blood compatibility evaluation of biomaterials. The aim of this research was to study a new approach for the haemocompatibility assessment of differently modified PET surfaces using the quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation unit (QCM-D) technique and measure the mass increase caused by clot formation under physiological conditions. For this purpose some of the most frequently applied in vitro methods for haemocompatibility determination, i.e., clotting time measurement and observation of red blood cells' mobility, were applied and their accuracy and sensitivity compared to the new QCM-D approach. Haemocompatibility was evaluated for non-modified poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) surfaces and PET surfaces coated with dextran sulphate and heparin. The basic anti-coagulant properties of heparin and dextran sulphate were analysed by means of their activated partial thromboplastine time (APTT). PET, as well as different polysaccharides coatings were chosen for this study due to their promising biocompatible properties and numerous possibilities for biomedical applications. The results showed that the new QCM-D technique to study clot formation in contact with PET surfaces under physiological environment was the most informative and accurate for in vitro haemocompatibility assessment. Although the results achieved with the other two methods were in good correlation, they did not provide such a high level of sensitivity.
revalence of Picky Eaters among Infants and oddlers and Their Caregivers ’ Decisions about ffering a New Food

l p c t f p f n BSTRACT bjectives To determine the prevalence of infants and todlers who were considered picky eaters, the predictors of icky eater status and its association with energy and utrient intakes, food group use, and the number of times hat caregivers offered a new food before deciding their hild disliked it. esign Cross-sectional survey of households with infants nd toddlers (ages four to 24 months) was conducted. ubjects/Setting National random sample of 3,022 infants nd toddlers. ethods Data included caregiver’s socioeconomic and deographic information, infants’ and toddlers’ food intake 24-hour recall), ethnicity, and caregivers’ reports of specfied times that new foods were offered before deciding he child disliked it. tatistical Analyses For picky and nonpicky eaters, t tests ere used to determine significant mean differences in nergy and nutrient intakes. Logistic regression was used o predict picky eater status, and 2 tests were used for ifferences in the specified number of times that new oods were offered. esults The percentage of children identified as picky eatrs by their caregivers increased from 19% to 50% from our to 24 months. Picky eaters were reported at all ages or both sexes, all ethnicities, and all ranges of household ncomes. On a day, both picky and nonpicky eaters met or xceeded current age-appropriate energy and dietary recmmendations. Older children were more likely to be icky. Those in the higher weight-for-age percentiles ere less likely to be picky. The highest number of times hat caregivers offered a new food before deciding the hild disliked it was three to five. pplications/Conclusions Dietetics professionals need to be ware that caregivers who perceive their child as a picky ater are evident across gender, ethnicity, and household ncomes. When offering a new food, mothers need to provide