Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Electrical characteristics of PVDF/BTO nanocomoposites under DC voltage application

The breakdown strength, conduction current, and space charge distribution were measured to understand the electrical characteristics of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) / barium titanium (IV) oxide (BTO) nanocomposites under DC voltage applications. The breakdown strength of PVDF with a BTO nanofiller was almost same regardless of a BTO content but the breakdown strength of PVDF with a BTO nanofiller was lower than that without a BTO nanofiller. The conduction current of PVDF with a BTO nanofiller also increase, compared to that without a BTO nanofiller, suggesting that the increased conduction current due to the increase in some carriers related to the addition of a BTO nanofiller leads to breakdown. In the space charge measurement, the induced charge polarities on PVDF with a BTO nanofiller were reversed compared to the applied voltage. The magnitude of the pressure wave from the surface polarization charge generated at the interface between the electrode and the sample increased qualitatively compared to that from the induced charge. The negative space charge was accumulated in the bulk of PVDF with a BTO nanofiller just prior to the voltage application and the negative space charge in the bulk decreased as the voltage application time increased. From these results, it was suggested that the breakdown was due to the increase in the conduction current, which is controlled by the space charge.
Prenatal Organophosphate Pesticide Exposure and Traits Related to Autism Spectrum Disorders in a Population Living in Proximity to Agriculture

Background: Prenatal exposure to organophosphate (OP) pesticides has been linked with poorer neurodevelopment and behaviors related to autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in previous studies, including in the Center for Health Assessment of Mothers and Children of Salinas (CHAMACOS) study, a birth cohort living in the agricultural Salinas Valley in California. Objectives: To investigate the association of prenatal exposure to OP pesticides with traits related to ASD, in childhood and adolescents in CHAMACOS. Methods: We assessed OP exposure during pregnancy with measurements of dialkyl phosphates (DAP) metabolites in urine, and residential proximity to OP use during pregnancy using California’s Pesticide Use Reporting (PUR) data and estimated associations with ASD-related traits using linear regression models. We measured traits reported by parents and teachers as well as the child’s performance on tests that evaluate the ability to use facial expressions to recognize the mental state of others at 7, 10½, and 14 years of age. Results: Prenatal DAPs were associated with poorer parent and teacher reported social behavior [e.g., a 10-fold DAP increase was associated with a 2.7-point increase (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.9, 4.5) in parent-reported Social Responsiveness Scale, Version 2, T-scores at age 14]. We did not find clear evidence of associations between residential proximity to OP use during pregnancy and ASD-related traits. Conclusions: These findings contribute mixed evidence linking OP pesticide exposures with traits related to developmental disorders like ASD. Subtle pesticide-related effects on ASD-related traits among a population with ubiquitous exposure could result in a rise in cases of clinically diagnosed disorders like ASD. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP2580
Implementation of Strategic Plan in Public Secondary Schools in Migwani Sub County in Kitui County Kenya

1. ABSTRACT School strategic planning is the key to determine the school’s success as it prepares to respond to ever changing academic landscape. This study intended to find out the roles of school stakeholders in the implementation of the school strategic plan in public secondary schools in Migwani sub-county. The specific objectives were:To assess the extent to which strategic plans had been implemented in public secondary schools in Migwani subcounty, to find out the role of parents in implementation of the school strategic plan, to find out the role of government in implementation of school strategic plan and to find out the role of school management in implementation of school strategic plans in Migwani Sub-County. Descriptive survey study approach was used. Questionnaires and interview schedule were used for data collection. The population of the study comprised of 22 public secondary schools which had documented strategic plan in Migwani sub-county as per February 2017. Stratified and simple random sampling techniques were used to select 66 respondents out of 286. The respondents were parents (PTA) members, school principals and BOG members. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The study found that the parents and government are the main financiers of all the school projects stated in the strategic plan. Government provides teachers and policies which are essential for implementation of strategic plan. BOG plan, budget and prioritize the items for implementation. An average of 34.59% of strategies had been implemented. There was no statistical difference in the role played by parents, government and school management (0.979).
Apoptosis induction and histological changes in rat kidney following Cd-doped silica nanoparticle exposure: evidence of persisting effects

Abstract Histological and immunocytochemical methods were used to examine rat’s renal responses to intratracheal (i.t.) instillation of model cadmium-containing silica nanoparticles (Cd-SiNPs) and also exploring whether these potential modifications would be associated with toxicogenomic changes. Renal effects of Cd-SiNPs (1 mg/rat), CdCl2 (400 µg/rat), SiNPs (600 µg/rat) or 0.1 ml saline (control), assessed 7 and 30 d post-i.t. , included (i) induction of apoptosis, (ii) cell proliferation and (iii) the overall toxic response evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunohistochemistry as well as Periodic acid Schiff and Hematoxylin & Eosin, respectively. Area-specific apoptosis was observed in all treatment groups, the cortex and inner medulla being the most affected regions: the apoptotic changes were apparent seven days post-exposure in both areas and were still observable in inner medulla at day 30. Apoptotic frequency increase was more pronounced in Cd-SiNP-treated animals compared to either CdCl2 or SiNPs groups. At day 7, the observed parallel increased number of PCNA immunopositive cells may be associated with an enhanced cell proliferation aimed at replacing the damaged cells. Histopathological findings demonstrated comparable morphological changes of the renal structure (at glomerular and tubular levels) occurring after all treatments at both time-points and more markedly 30 d after instillation. Both morphological and toxicogenomic evaluations confirmed long-lasting renal effects of Cd-SiNPs on apoptosis and regulatory processes. Bare SiNPs i.t. administration caused morphological and apoptotic changes but did not modify gene expression profile in kidney. These findings substantiate the notion that multiple assays and an integrated testing strategy should be recommended to characterize toxicological responses to nanoparticles in mammalian systems.
Chromosomal localization and genomic characterization of the mouse melastatin gene (Mlsn1).

We recently described a novel gene, melastatin, whose expression is inversely correlated with melanoma aggressiveness. Chromosomal localization of this gene places it on mouse chromosome 7 and in the 15q13-q14 region of the human genome. Although expression patterns and chromosomal localization in the mouse are consistent with involvement of melastatin mutations in the mouse ruby-eye-2 defect, congenic analysis showed genetic segregation of the two loci. Cloning of the full-length human cDNA revealed a much larger transcript than we had previously identified, corresponding to a 1533-amino-acid protein product with homology to members of the transient receptor potential (Trp) family of calcium channels. The mouse melastatin gene contains 27 exons and spans at least 58 kb of genomic DNA. The promoter region of Mlsn1 contains four potential microphthalmia binding sites including an M box, a transcriptional regulatory element unique to genes with a restricted melanocytic expression pattern. A 1-kb PvuII fragment from this region was capable of driving high levels of luciferase expression in B16 melanoma cells.
Advanced modeling of choke ring antennas for mm-wave applications

A rigorous mathematical approach for the analysis and optimization of choke ring antennas with non-identical grooves is presented, based on the method of singular integral equations (SIE). The effectiveness of the SIE approach enables us to develop a robust synthesis-oriented CAD tool capable of fast optimization of the grooves depth and positioning. In this paper, we limit discussion by a 2-D model and TM polarization case. A two step optimization procedure is used to define the optimal configuration of the antenna. First, dispersion curves for the periodic corrugated substrate are presented and used to analyze the supported modes and the impacts of corrugation parameters on the radiation pattern of the antenna, built of a waveguide with a finite-size corrugated flange. Then, the depth of grooves on this flange is optimized using genetic algorithm with the aim to produce a secant-squared beam. The optimal antenna configuration is then studied in 3-D using commercial software: an excellent agreement between 2-D and 3-D results is obtained. This work is a first step towards an advanced low-profile antenna with a shaped beam and high radiation efficiency suitable for mm-wave exposure systems for bioelectromagnetic studies.
A Functional Role for p38 MAPK in Modulating Mitotic Transit in the Absence of Stress*

Although p38 MAPK is known to be activated in response to various environmental stresses and to have inhibitory roles in cell proliferation and tumor progression, its role in cell cycle progression in the absence of stress is unknown in most cell types. In the case of G2/M cell cycle control, p38 activation has been shown to trigger a rapid G2/M cell cycle checkpoint after DNA damage stress and a spindle checkpoint after microtubule disruption. In the course of our studies, we observed that p38 became actively phosphorylated, and its kinase activity increased transiently during G2/M cell cycle transition. Using an immunocytochemistry approach, the active form of p38 was found at the centrosome from late G2 throughout mitosis, which suggests functional relevance for active p38 protein during mitotic entry. A closer examination reveals that p38 inhibition by pharmacologic inhibitors significantly accelerated the timing of mitotic entry. In addition, long term exposure of the inhibitor enhanced Cdc2 activity. These results indicate that p38 activity during G2/M may be involved in a mechanism for fine tuning the initiation of mitosis and perhaps transit of mitosis. Consistent with our previous findings, Cdc25B was phosphorylated on serine 309 at the centrosome during G2/M when p38 was active at this site; Cdc25B phosphorylation inhibits Cdc25B activity, and this phosphorylation was found to be p38-dependent. Taken together, our findings suggest that p38 regulates the timing of mitotic entry via modulation of Cdc25B activity under normal nonstress conditions.
Regulation of lipid metabolism in adipose tissue

Adipose tissue is a major source of metabolic fuel. This metabolic fuel is stored in the form of triacylglycerol. Lipolysis of triacylglycerol yields non-esterified fatty acids and glycerol. In human subjects in vivo studies of the regulation of lipid metabolism in adipose tissue have been difficult because of the heterogeneous nature of the tissue and lack of a vascular pedicle. In the last decade the methodology of study of adipose tissue has improved with the advent of the anterior abdominal wall adipose tissue preparation technique and microdialysis. These techniques have demonstrated that lipid metabolism in adipose tissue is finely coordinated during feeding and fasting cycles, in order to provide metabolic fuel when required. Lipolysis takes place both in extracellular and intracellular space. The extracellular lipolysis is regulated by lipoprotein lipase and the intracellular lipolysis is regulated by hormone-sensitive lipase. In pathophysiological conditions such as trauma, sepsis and starvation profound changes are induced in the regulation of lipid metabolism. The increased mobilization of lipid fuel is brought about by the differential actions of various counter-regulatory hormones on adipose tissue blood flow and adipose tissue lipolysis through lipoprotein lipase and hormone-sensitive lipase, resulting in increased availability of non-esterified fatty acids as a source of fuel. In recent years, it has been demonstrated that adipose tissue produces various cytokines and these cytokines can have paracrine and endocrine effects. It would appear that adipose tissue has the ability to regulate lipid metabolism locally as well as at distant sites such as liver, muscle and brain. In future, it is likely that the mechanisms that lead to the secondary effects of lipid metabolism on atheroma, immunity and carcinogenesis will be demonstrated.
Mathematical model of renal elimination of fluid and small ions during hyper‐ and hypovolemic conditions

This study is concerned with the formulation of a ‘kidney module’ linked to the plasma compartment of a larger mathematical model previously developed. Combined, these models can be used to predict, amongst other things, fluid and small ion excretion rates by the kidney; information that should prove useful in evaluating values and trends related to whole‐body fluid balance for different clinical conditions to establish fluid administration protocols and for educational purposes. The renal module assumes first‐order, negative‐feedback responses of the kidney to changes in plasma volume and/or plasma sodium content from their normal physiological set points. Direct hormonal influences are not explicitly formulated in this empiric model. The model also considers that the renal excretion rates of small ions other than sodium are proportional to the excretion rate of sodium.
Outcomes after withholding anticoagulation from patients with suspected acute pulmonary embolism and negative computed tomographic findings: a cohort study.

OBJECTIVE To determine the outcome of withholding anticoagulation from patients with suspected acute pulmonary embolism in whom computed tomographic (CT) findings are interpreted as negative for pulmonary embolism. PATIENTS AND METHODS This retrospective cohort study included 1512 consecutive patients referred from August 7, 1997, to November 30, 1998, for CT because of clinically suspected acute pulmonary embolism. All patients were examined by electron beam CT, and scanning was performed in a cephalocaudad direction from the top of the aortic arch to the base of the heart with 3-mm collimation, 2-mm table incrementation, and an exposure time of 0.2 second (130 peak kV, 620 mA, and standard reconstruction algorithm). Contrast material was infused at a rate of 3 to 4 mL/s through an antecubital vein with an automated injector. Findings on CT were interpreted as either positive or negative. The main outcome measures were deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and vital status within 3 months after the CT scan and the cause of death based on medical record review, mailed patient questionnaires, and telephone interviews. RESULTS In 1010 patients (67%) CT scans were interpreted as negative for acute pulmonary embolism. Seventeen patients were excluded because they received anticoagulation. Of the remaining 993 patients, deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism developed in 8; 118 patients died, 3 of pulmonary embolism. Nineteen patients were known to be alive, but additional clinical information could not be obtained. The 3-month cumulative incidence of overall deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism was 0.5% (95% confidence interval, 0.1%-1.0%) and of fatal pulmonary embolism, 0.3% (95% confidence interval, 0.0%-0.7%). CONCLUSIONS The incidence of (1) overall deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism or (2) fatal pulmonary embolism among patients with suspected acute pulmonary embolism, negative CT results, and no other evidence of venous thromboembolism is low. Withholding anticoagulation in these patients appears to be safe.
Transcranial color‐coded duplex sonography, magnetic resonance angiography, and computed tomography angiography: Methods, applications, advantages, and limitations

Transcranial color‐coded duplex sonography (TCCD), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), and computed tomography angiography (CTA) are novel noninvasive or minimally invasive techniques for the study of the intracranial circulation. TCCD is relatively inexpensive and permits bedside examination. It improves the accuracy and reliability of conventional transcranial Doppler studies. The main limitation of TCCD are the ultrasonic windows. They restrict the area of insonation to the major cerebral arteries and the proximal part of its branches, lower the spatial resolution, and may prevent transtemporal insonation. Using MRA, both large and small intracranial arteries and veins can be imaged by selecting the appropriate imaging parameters. MRA provides morphologic information about the cerebral vessels, relying on blood flow as the physical basis for generating contrast between stationary tissues and moving spins. MRA is highly sensitive for the detection of occlusive disease in large intracranial arteries. However, with bright blood techniques the degree of stenosis tends to be exaggerated. Flow direction, eg, in collaterals, can be determined by selective or phase‐contrast MRA. Perfusion imaging techniques provide information about blood flow at the capillary level. Diffusion imaging depicts molecular motion. TCCD and MRA used in combination or alone may eliminate the need for intra‐arterial digital subtraction angiography (DSA) in most patients studied for occlusive cerebrovascular disease. DSA may be reserved for those patients where there is disagreement among the noninvasive techniques, and for the diagnosis of cerebral aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations. CTA relies on spiral CT technology and intravenous contrast injection. To date, intracranial use has been predominantly for the diagnosis of aneurysms. The role of CTA for the detection of nonaneurysmal intracranial vascular disease has yet to be established. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor-BB and beta-tricalcium phosphate (rhPDGF-BB/β-TCP): an alternative to autogenous bone graft.

BACKGROUND Joint arthrodesis employing autogenous bone graft (autograft) remains a mainstay in the treatment of many foot and ankle problems. However, graft harvest can lead to perioperative morbidity and increased cost. We tested the hypothesis that purified recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor-BB (rhPDGF-BB) homodimer combined with an osteoconductive matrix (beta-tricalcium phosphate [β-TCP]) would be a safe and effective alternative to autograft. METHODS A total of 434 patients were enrolled in thirty-seven clinical sites across North America in a prospective, randomized (2:1), controlled, non-inferiority clinical trial to compare the safety and efficacy of the combination rhPDGF-BB and β-TCP with those of autograft in patients requiring hindfoot or ankle arthrodesis. Radiographic, clinical, functional, and quality-of-life end points were assessed through fifty-two weeks postoperatively. RESULTS Two hundred and sixty patients (394 joints) underwent arthrodesis with use of rhPDGF-BB/β-TCP. One hundred and thirty-seven patients (203 joints) underwent arthrodesis with use of autograft. With regard to the primary end point, 159 patients (61.2% [262 joints (66.5%)]) in the rhPDGF-BB/β-TCP group and eighty-five patients (62.0% [127 joints (62.6%)]) in the autograft group were fused as determined by computed tomography at six months (p < 0.05). Clinically, 224 patients (86.2%) [348 joints (88.3%)]) in the rhPDGF-BB/β-TCP group were considered healed at fifty-two weeks, compared with 120 patients (87.6% [177 joints (87.2%)] in the autograft group (p = 0.008). Overall, fourteen of sixteen secondary end points at twenty-four weeks and fifteen of sixteen secondary end points at fifty-two weeks demonstrated statistical non-inferiority between the groups, and patients in the rhPDGF-BB/β-TCP group were found to have less pain and an improved safety profile. CONCLUSIONS In patients requiring hindfoot or ankle arthrodesis, treatment with rhPDGF-BB/β-TCP resulted in comparable fusion rates, less pain, and fewer side effects as compared with treatment with autograft.
Infusional fluorouracil, epirubicin, and cisplatin followed by weekly paclitaxel plus bevacizumab in locally advanced breast cancer with unfavorable prognostic features

The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical and biological activities of bevacizumab in combination with preoperative anthracyclines and taxane-based chemotherapy in locally advanced breast cancer selected for unfavorable prognostic features. Patients with cT2–4c, cN0–2, estrogen and progesterone receptors less than 10% of the cells or cT4d and any estrogen/progesterone receptors expression received four courses of ECF-chemotherapy (epirubicin, cisplatin, fluorouracil as continuous infusion) followed by three courses of weekly paclitaxel in combination with bevacizumab. Thirty patients were included in the study. An objective response, either complete or partial, was observed in 26 patients (87%; 95% confidence interval: 69–96%), stable disease was observed in two patients (7%), and two patients (7%) progressed. A pathological complete response was obtained in 10 patients (33%; 95% confidence interval: 17–53%). Side effects related to bevacizumab with grade ≥2 included headache and hypertension. A nonstatistical significant decrease in the median value of circulating endothelial cells was observed at surgery (3.0/μl vs. 5.7/μl, P=0.19). In conclusion, high rates of both clinical and pathological responses with anthracycline-containing chemotherapy followed by weekly paclitaxel plus bevacizumab were observed in locally advanced breast cancer with unfavorable prognostic features. A non-negligible rate of progressive disease was observed, suggesting careful monitoring of the patients. Further studies evaluating the potential benefit of bevacizumab in neoadjuvant treatment need to be tested.