Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Effect of Aloe vera Extract on Depression in People with Prediabetes

BackgroundDepression is one of the major mood disorders that leads to development of type 2 diabetes in pre-diabetic patients . Any intervention s alleviate the symptoms of depression in these patients can significantly help preventing type 2 diabetes.ObjectivesThe effects of pure extract powder of Aloe vera on depression in prediabetic patients were examined.MethodsA double blind randomized controlled trial study was conducted on 72 prediabetic patients. After sampling the patients were allocated to three groups (Aloe vera 300 Mg (AL300), Aloe vera 500 Mg (AL500) and Placebo (PL). The participants in the two first groups received pure extract powder of Aloe Vera capsules twice a day in the morning and evening for eight weeks . In addition, they completed Beck Depression inventory before and eight weeks sfter the intervention . After confirming the normality of the mean depression score variable by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, the data was analyzed using ANOVA, Chi-square, and paired t-test.ResultsAfter the 8th week of intervention, the mean depression scores in the 500 Mg aloe vera (AL500) group decreased significantly (P = 0.033). ConclusionsAloe vera extract powder (AL500) considerably alleviated depression mean scores in prediabetic patients during an eight weeks period.
Long-term variability in zooplankton biomass in the subarctic Pacific Ocean

Zooplankton collections from the subarctic Pacific were analyzed from two periods (1956–1962 and 1980–1989). In this report, we document: 1) a positive correlation between the intensity of winter winds and subsequent summer zooplankton biomass in the subarctic gyre within these periods; and 2) a doubling of zooplankton biomass and a similar increase in pelagic fish and squid abundance between these two periods of time. Some possible explanations for these changes are considered.
Antidiabetic and antioxidative effects of Jatropha curcas extracts in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Aims: To ascertain the antidiabetic and antioxidative effects of ethanol-methanol extracts of leaf, stem bark and root of Jatropha curcas on the blood and liver tissue of streptozotocin-induced diabetic albino wistar rats Place and Duration of Study: Department of Medical Biochemistry, Cross River University of Technology, Okuku campus between August 2013 and March, 2014. Methodology: Fifty four (54) male albino wistar rats weighing 150200g were randomly assigned into nine study groups (n=6). Group I was the normal control, groups II–VI were induced with diabetes using streptozotocin. Group II was untreated, while groups III –VI were treated with leaf, stem bark, root extracts and Glibenclamide (standard drug) respectively. The remaining groups VIIIX were not induced with diabetes but were treated with leaf, stem bark and root extracts respectively. The administration of these extracts lasted for 14 days after which the animals were sacrificed. The liver tissue was collected and homogenized and the supernatant used for the Original Research Article Asuk et al.; BJMMR, 5(3): 341-349, 2015; Article no.BJMMR. 2015.038 342 estimation of SOD, CAT and MDA activities. Results: The result of blood glucose level on the fourteenth day of the plant extracts administration, showed further decrease in the groups treated with the plant extracts to the extent that group IV was significantly (P<0.05) decreased compared with the normal control. The blood glucose level of the standard drug (Glibenclamide) treated group (VI) was further decreased however it remained significantly (P<0.05) increased compared with the normal control and about three or more times that of the groups treated with the plant extracts. Result of the liver tissue SOD for the test groups showed significant (P<0.05) difference except for groups IV and VII when compared with the normal control. There was no significant (P≥0.05) difference in the SOD activities of test groups compared with the diabetic control. The liver tissue CAT showed general increase for the test groups, but group III produced a significant (P<0.05) increase compared with the normal control, while groups III and V showed significant (P<0.05) increase compared with the diabetic control. The liver tissue MDA showed significant (P<0.05) increase for groups II and IV but a significant (P<0.05) decrease for group V compared with the normal control. However, compared with group II (diabetic control) all the test groups showed a significant (P<0.05) decrease. Conclusion: The present research suggest that the leaf, stem bark and root of ethanol-methanol (1:1) extracts of Jatropha curcas possess anti-hyperglycemic and antioxidant activities but their response to the liver tissue enzyme systems of SOD and CAT vary in either to playing compensatory role or boosting the activities of the antioxidant enzymes. The plant parts also appear to possess the potential for reversing the tissue oxidative damage caused by diabetes as seen by their abilities to prevent lipid peroxidation.
The Development of the Auditory Ossicles in the Elephant Shrew, the Tenrec and the Golden Mole

Summary. 1 The development of the middle ear is described in Eremitalpa, Elephantulus and Ericulus. The structure in Eremitalpa is fundamentally more primitive and quite distinct from that seen in Ericulus. 2 The interossicular joints are in some cases clearly incapable of movement. 3 Evidence is brought forward for the view that the manubrium mallei and the element of Spence represent the insertion and horizontal portions respectively of the reptilian extrastapes,
Impact of Change in Maximum Aerobic Capacity in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: 36 Months Follow up

Objective: There is a scarcity of literature that documents the results of evidence-based traditional/ complementary medicine. Aim of this study was to analyze survival benefit in patients that were treated with ayurvedic therapy called Sampurna Hridaya Shuddhikaran (SHS). Secondary endpoints were to observe a change in demographics and VO2peak. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed data of CAD patients who received and completed 12-week SHS. Patients whose data was available before and after intervention were enrolled in the study. These patients were then approached via a telephonic call at 36 months to know their survival status and other demographic and clinical parameters. Results: CAD patients (N=154, males: 127(82)) with a mean age of 63.19 ± 9.91 and LVEF: 50.79 ± 12.57 were enrolled in the study. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) which is an independent predictor of survival benefit was documented to be increased post 12-weeks SHS treatment. At 36 months the all-cause mortality was reported to be 13%. Increase in age, gender (male/female), previous MI history was found to be associated with the mortality rate. Conclusion: Enhanced survival percentage was observed at 36 months as compared to the documented clinical trials. Therefore, Ayurvedic interventions need to be a strong candidate for better management of CAD and survival benefits.
Still No Substantial Evidence to Use Prophylactic Antibiotic at Operative Vaginal Delivery: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background Postpartum maternal infection is still a common problem worldwide, mainly due to obstetric risk factors. The use of prophylactic antibiotic at operative vaginal delivery (OVD), taking it as a standalone risk factor, has been controversial. The purpose of this review was to rigorously evaluate the association of OVD with postpartum infection and shed light on such highly controversial issue. Methods A computer-based literature search was done mainly in the databases of PUBMED, HINARI health research, and the Cochrane library. Systematic review and meta-analysis were done by including 14 articles published between 1990 and August 2019. Results The average absolute risk of postpartum infection at OVD from seven large cohort studies was 1%. Few studies showed a weak association of OVD with postpartum infection without being adjusted to perineal wound, but the pooled meta-analysis showed statistically significant association with non-OVD. In the included randomized trial, 97% of the study participants had perineal wound for whom repairs were performed; the risks of maternal infection and perineal wound breakdown were comparable, and maternal infections other than perineal wound infection did not show significant difference between prophylactic antibiotic and placebo groups. The majority of included studies demonstrated a strong association of postpartum infection and perineal wound dehiscence with episiotomy and perineal tear. Conclusion Both the relative and absolute risks of postpartum infection at OVD are extremely low unless accompanied by episiotomy and 3rd/4tht degree perineal tear. From previous studies, there is no substantial evidence to use prophylactic antibiotic at OVD, but episiotomy and perineal tear.
Mandibular shape in the genus Marmota (Rodentia, Sciuridae): A preliminary analysis using outlines

Abstract Marmots are of prominent interest for sociobiologists studying mammal societies. They are also a fascinating group on which to test congruence between morphological information and molecular phylogeny and the possible occurrence of homoplasy in the evolution of the sciurid skeleton. To investigate marmot morphological relationships, an analysis of the outlines of the posterior region of the marmot mandible was performed using Elliptic Fourier analysis. Outgroup species belonging to other sciurid genera were also included, and the efficacy of this technique to discriminate taxa based on the morphology of this mandibular region was assessed. The mandible outlines led to a partial separation of the groups under study, but the phylogenetic signal seems to be weak compared to previous studies of the marmot mandible. Indeed, epigenetic influences acting on the posterior region of the mandible, an area of insertion of important masticatory muscles, may be a source of phenotypic variation that can mask the phylogenetic signal. However, interpretations must be made with caution as the posterior region of the mandible is an apparently suitable structure for outline analysis but the poor alignment of the outlines using standard elliptic Fourier methods made the study more complex than expected.
Wolbachia–induced thelytoky in the rose gallwasp Diplolepis spinosissimae (Giraud) (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae), and its consequences on the genetic structure of its host

Cynipids are known to use various reproductive modes (arrhenotoky, thelytoky and strict cyclical parthenogenesis), but the mechanism remains unknown. We have studied the reproductive system of a rose gallwasp, Diplolepis spinosissimae, which was found to exhibit two different reproductive systems according to the population. In eight out of the ten populations studied, all along the Atlantic coast, D. spinosissimae is thelytokous. Males are extremely rare, and all females are homozygous at three microsatellite loci. ‘Obligate homozygous parthenogenesis’ was found to be strictly associated with the presence of the endosymbiotic bacterium Wolbachia sp. In the two remaining populations, deprived of Wolbachia, D. spinosissimae reproduced by arrhenotoky as indicated by the larger frequency of males and heterozygosity of females. Allelic diversity, although not zero, was highly reduced in the coastal populations, as a consequence of thelytoky and gamete duplication. We hypothesize that mating of uninfected males with infected females during the first generations after an infection event could explain the small but significant amount of polymorphism observed in those populations. The high level of differentiation indicates a low gene flow, even between geographically close coastal populations.
Board characteristics and cost of debt: Evidence from Indonesia

Tata kelola perusahaan selalu menjadi isu penting bagi para investor, praktisi dan para pembuat peraturan. Hal ini karena tata kelola perusahaan memiliki dampak yang signifikan terhadap perekonomian dan memiliki peran penting selama perusahaan tersebut beroperasi. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengatahui pengaruh karakteristik Dewan terhadap biaya utang. Jumlah sampel dalam penelitian ini sebanyak 777 observasi perusahaan non keuangan. Metode analisis data menggunakan analisis regresi berganda. Pengolahan data dilakukan dengan menggunakan program STATA Versi 12. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ukuran Dewan berpengaruh signifikan terhadap biaya utang, tetapi Dewan perempuan dan Komisaris Independen tidak berasosiasi terhadap biaya utang.
Gaussian third-order Jacobsthal and Gaussian third-order Jacobsthal–Lucas polynomials and their properties

In this paper, the Gaussian third-order Jacobsthal and Gaussian third-order Jacobsthal–Lucas polynomials are defined. Then Binet formula and generating functions of these numbers are given. Also, some summation identities for Gaussian third-order Jacobsthal and Gaussian third-order Jacobsthal–Lucas polynomials are obtained by using the recurrence relation satisfied by them. Then, some linear and quadratic relations are given between Gaussian third-order Jacobsthal and Gaussian third-order Jacobsthal–Lucas polynomials.
The induction of α‐amylase activity by sucrose starvation in suspension‐cultured rice cells is regulated by polyamines

When suspension-cultured rice (Oryza sativa L. cv. Tainan 5) cells were deprived of sucrose, α-amylase (EC 3.2.1.1) activity in the cells and the culture medium increased markedly. The increase in activity of α-amylase caused by sucrose starvation in the cells and the medium was strongly reduced in the presence of exogenously added spermine. Putrescine and spermidine also inhibited, though only slightly, the increase in α-amylase activity caused by sucrose starvation. Preincubation of the enzyme extract or enzyme in the medium with polyamines had no effect on α-amylase activity. Sucrose starvation resulted in lower polyamine levels in rice suspension cells. D-Arginine and α-methylomithine, inhibitors of polyamine biosynthesis, caused reduced levels of polyamines and increased activity of α-amylase in rice suspension cells cultured in the presence of sucrose. Our results indicate that the induction of α-amylase activity by sucrose starvation in rice suspension cells is mediated, at least partly, through the internal level of polyamines.
Adolescents' attitudes to risk and their employment sector choices in adulthood: Evidence from longitudinal data

I investigated the effects of adolescents' attitudes toward risk on their choice of employment sector in adulthood. I employed a joint model of employment sector choice and three-dimensional background characteristics to demonstrate that employment preference is an inverse function of the degree of relative risk aversion. Empirical data was obtained from longitudinal data, and a logit model was applied to estimate the effects of the three-dimensional background characteristics on the risk-taking attitudes and employment choices. I observed that individuals with a higher tendency to engage in risky experiences exhibit low risk aversion, and thus, tend to choose a riskier employment sector.
Language Ideologies and Saudi Society: Understanding the Notion of Diglossia

Discussing the role of Spoken varieties within Saudi society exposes a point of tension between those who view these varieties as a threat to Fus‛ħa Arabic and those who value them for their close association with local traditions and culture. The absence of a clear understanding of the concept of diglossia among the general public is at the core of this issue. Thus, one can see that although the use of Spoken varieties is expanding rapidly through new mediums such as “Shilat” (folkloric singing) and “Alqanawat Ash-Shaʕbeyah” (TV channels focusing on folklore), the linguistic campaigns that criticize these varieties remain as strong as ever. In this context, this paper aims to explore the discrepancy between linguistic ideologies within society and the reality of language use on the ground. The data used in this study were collected from questionnaires disseminated among Saudi speakers from both sexes and different age groups. The qualitative and quantitative analyses of the data reveal a number of directions and views that are prevalent within Saudi society regarding the H/L dichotomy. There seems to be a wide consensus about accepting Spoken varieties as a normal component of the linguistic repertoire of speakers, provided that such varieties are used in their predetermined domains. In contrast, any signs of infringement on the functions reserved for Fus‛ħa Arabic are always condemned and denounced. These infringements include the nonstandard use of language in any written form, such as the use of local varieties on internet forums, newspapers, and magazines or on information websites, like Wikipedia. This paper also examines the participants’ views on using Spoken Arabic on social media platforms, and their attitudes towards the influx of recent English borrowings into Spoken Arabic.
GAN-SRAF: Subresolution Assist Feature Generation Using Generative Adversarial Networks

As the integrated circuits (ICs) technology continues to scale, resolution enhancement techniques (RETs) are mandatory to obtain high manufacturing quality and yield. Among various RETs, subresolution assist feature (SRAF) generation is a key technique to improve the target pattern quality and lithographic process window. While model-based SRAF insertion techniques have demonstrated high accuracy, they usually suffer from high computational cost. Therefore, more efficient techniques that can achieve high accuracy while reducing runtime are in strong demand. In this article, we leverage the recent advancement in machine learning for image generation to tackle the SRAF insertion problem. In particular, we propose a new SRAF insertion framework, GAN-SRAF, which uses generative adversarial networks (GANs) to generate SRAFs directly for any given layout. Our proposed approach incorporates a novel layout to image encoding using multichannel heatmaps to preserve the layout information and facilitate layout reconstruction. Our experimental results demonstrate ${\sim }14.6\times $ reduction in runtime when compared to the previous best machine learning approach for SRAF generation, and ${\sim }144\times $ reduction compared to the model-based approach, while achieving comparable quality of results.
Comparative Performance of Creatinine-Based GFR Estimation Equations in Exceptional Longevity: The Rugao Longevity and Ageing Study

Purpose Reduced kidney function has been associated with an increased risk for adverse outcomes. Accurate assessment of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is key to diagnosis and management of kidney disfunction. Debate exists on the best GFR estimation equation for elderly people. This study aimed to compare the predictive validity and discriminative ability of four GFR equations in relation to 2-year and 6-year mortality in exceptional longevity (EL) (those over 95 years old with intact health) individuals and is an ideal model to address factors relating to life span and age-related diseases. Patients and Methods This study used 6 years’ data of 278 EL from the Rugao longevity cohort. Baseline GFR was estimated using four equations: Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation, Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study (MDRD) equation, Berlin Initiative Study-1 (BIS) equation, and modified MDRD equation. Predictive validity was tested using Cox proportional hazards analysis. Overall improvement in reclassification based on estimated GFR (eGFR) was assessed applying net reclassification improvement (NRI). Results Mean age of participants was 97±2 years with median follow-up of 2.6 years. Median (IQR) eGFR by CKD-EPI, MDRD, BIS, and modified MDRD equations were 73.9 (62.2–77.6), 82.3 (67.4–98.6), 56.4 (47.9–63.9), and 101.5 (83.1–121.6) mL/min per 1.73 m2, respectively. Higher eGFREPI was associated with lower mortality after multivariate adjustment (for continuous eGFREPI, HRtwo-year 1.018, 95% CI 1.002–1.033, P=0.023; HRsix-year 1.013, 95% CI 1.002–1.025, P=0.022), while eGFR from other equations did not show any associations with mortality. NRI for two-year mortality was 0.14 and approximately significant, which may favor the CKD-EPI when compared to BIS equation (P=0.052). Conclusion The CKD-EPI equation showed more accurate estimation of kidney function in the elderly with respect to GFR distribution and predictability of mortality risk.
The Persistence of Host-Parasitoid Associations in Patchy Environments. I. A General Criterion

In this article we show that, for host-parasitoid interactions in a heterogeneous environment and with discrete generations, the dynamic effects of any patterns of distribution of searching parasitoids can be assessed within a common, simple framework. The populations are regulated if the distribution of searching parasitoids is sufficiently heterogeneous. Specifically, the square of the coefficient of variation (CV2) of the searching parasitoids per host must exceed unity. This criterion is demonstrated to apply approximately, in general and also in several specific cases. We further show that CV2 may be partitioned into a density-dependent component caused by the response of parasitoids to host density per patch and a density-independent component. Population regulation is enhanced as much by density-independent as by density-dependent heterogeneity.
Equivalence of concentration–response relationships in aquatic toxicology studies: Testing and implications for potency estimation

The purpose of this study was to describe statistical procedures to test the equivalence of concentration–response relationships in acute toxicology studies and to illustrate the implications of nonequivalence on potency endpoints such as LC10, LC50, or LC90. A logistic regression model for binary response endpoints such as mortality that allowed for the examination of equivalence of slopes and intercepts of the responses between populations is described. Test statistics were derived from comparing nested regression models. This procedure was used to test the equivalence of concentration versus acute mortality response relationships between two nonpolar, narcotic chemicals in a single population of fish and between two populations of fish with different exposure histories to a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon. These case studies illustrate different outcomes in the comparison of concentration–response relationships and demonstrate the need to consider more than a single endpoint (e.g., LC50) in a risk assessment context when nonparallel concentration–responses are observed.