Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Immunoreactive pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor in gynecological diseases.

Serum immunoreactive pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor in 45 patients with various gynecological diseases was measured by a radioimmunoassay. In normal serum of healthy individuals, the concentration was 11.7 +/- 2.3 ng/ml (mean +/- SD). Elevated levels (above control mean plus 3 S.D.) were observed in sera of 5 patients (50%) with ovarian cancer, and serum of one patient (4.7%) with uterine cancer. Only one tumor extract of ovarian cancer contained a significant level of immunoreactive PSTI. PSTI-containing mucin was detected in a mucin-producing ovarian adenocarcinoma.
Improve the Performance of LDPC Coded QAM by Selective Bit Mapping in Terrestrial Broadcasting System

In this paper, we employ selective bit mapping to improve the performance of the LDPC coded QAM scheme for terrestrial DTV broadcasting system. The threshold of message-passing decoding can be considerably lowered by selectively mapping the binary components of LDPC codeword to the positions in the m-tuples to be mapped into 2mQAM symbols. In our approach, the mapping pattern is described by bit-mapping polynomials, based on which density evolution can be applied. The optimization algorithm is developed with two implementation concerns, using the Chinese DTMB standard as an example. Numerical results illustrate that our proposed approach can improve the decoding threshold by 0.05 dB to 0.499 dB depending on the code rate and the order of QAM modulation. Simulation results show that the actual BER improvement varies from 0.09 dB to 0.6 dB with different code-modulation combinations in both single-carrier and OFDM modes.
Endocrine–metabolic effects of the treatment with pioglitazonein obese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

The hyperandrogenism found in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can be a consequence of hyperinsulinemia as a result of peripheral insulin resistance. Metformin and insulin sensitizers have become a potential therapeutic tool for treating these patients; however, there are few studies with pioglitazone in PCOS. Elevated luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone (LH/FSH) ratios and LH hyper-responsivity to stimulation with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) are common findings in PCOS. The reason why hyperinsulinemia produces hyperandrogenism and whether insulin action on the pituitary alters gonadotropin liberation remain unknown. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of pioglitazone (30 mg/day for 2 months) on insulin response to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), serum levels of androgens and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and pituitary gonadotropin response to GnRH stimulation in 15 obese PCOS women. We found a significant decrease in insulin response to the OGTT and also in total and free testosterone levels, an increase in SHBG and a reduction in the LH response to GnRH stimulation after pioglitazone treatment. In conclusion, this short-term treatment with pioglitazone decreased hyperinsulinemia and hyperandrogenemia in obese PCOS patients, and there was a significant reduction in LH response to GnRH stimulation. Further research should be carried out to establish the risks and benefits of pioglitazone, which would assist in the physiopathologic comprehension of PCOS.
First human exposure to Org 25969.

about the reversal of rocuronium-induced neuro-muscular block by Org 25969. The described reversal mechanism ishighly promising both for the clinical application and in researchendeavors.This being the ﬁrst description of the pharmacokinetics of Org25969, we hoped to reconstruct the time course of the plasmaconcentrations of Org 25969 using the provided data. Unfortu-nately, the combination of the pharmacokinetic parameters (tables6 and 7) does not permit such a reconstruction, in part due to anonstandard method of analysis. The authors do not mentionwhether an exponential equation or a compartmental model wasﬁtted to the concentrations of Org 25969 in plasma. Was eitherapproach even attempted? The terminal elimination half-life (t
Phenotypic profiles and functional genomics in Alzheimer's disease and in dementia with a vascular component

Abstract Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia with vascular component (DVC) are the most prevalent forms of dementia. Both clinical entities share many similarities, but they differ in major phenotypic and genotypic profiles as revealed by structural and functional genomics studies. Comparative phenotypic studies have identified significant differences in 25% of more than 100 parametric variables, including anthropometry, cardiovascular function, aortic atherosclerosis, brain atrophy, blood pressure, blood biochemistry, hematology, thyroid function, folate and vitamin B12 levels, brain hemodynamics and lymphocyte markers. The phenotypic profile of patients with DVC differs from that of AD patients in the following: anthropometric values (weight, height); cardiovascular function (ECG, heart rate); blood pressure; lipid metabolism (HDL–CHO, TGs); uric acid metabolism; peripheral calcium homeostasis; liver function (GOT, GPT, GGT); alkaline phosphatase; lactate dehydrogenase; red and white blood cells; regional brain atrophy (left temporal region, inter-hippocampal distance); and left anterior blood flow velocity. Functional genomics studies incorporating APOE-related changes in biological markers extended the difference between AD and DVC up to 57%. Brain perfusion studies show a severe brain hypoperfusion in dementia associated with enlarged age-dependent arterial perfusion times. Structural genomics studies with AD-related genes, including APP, MAPT, APOE, PS1, PS2, A2M, ACE, AGT, cFOS and PRNP genes, demonstrate different genetic profiles in AD and DVC, with an absolute genetic variation rate ranging from 30% to 80%, depending upon genes and genetic clusters. Single gene analysis identifies relative genetic variations ranging from 0% to 5%. The relative polymorphic variation in genetic clusters integrated by two, three or four genes associated with AD ranges from 1% to 3%. The main phenotypic differences between AD and DVC are genotype-dependent, especially in AD, probably indicating that different genomic factors are determinant for the expression of dementia symptoms which might be accelerated or induced by environmental and/or cerebrovascular factors.
Monotonicity of Likelihood Ratio of MAP Correlation Detection for OCDMA Communication

In this paper, the monotonicity of the likelihood ratio used in the optimal correlation detection is established for optical code division multiple-access (OCDMA). The monotonicity property not only guarantees the optimality of the detection, it also enables us to calculate the bit-error-rate bounds for OCDMA in the presence of uncertain a priori probabilities.
[A comparative study of the manual and digital measurements of the palpebral fissure].

PURPOSE To compare the measurement of the palpebral fissure done either manually and by computer analysis of image of individuals without lid alterations. METHODS One hundred two palpebral fissures from 51 normal subjects have been analyzed. The patients' age ranged from 17 to 84 years, with 25 (49%) males and 26 (51%) females. RESULTS There was no statistically significant difference between the measurements done either manually or by computer analysis of images, neither, when we grouped the patients by sex or age. Also we did not observe difference between males and females, and regarding age. CONCLUSIONS The results obtained by both methods are comparable and reliable due to the statistical equivalence of the obtained measurements.
Generative constraint-based configuration of large technical systems

This paper describes the technical principles and representation behind the constraint-based, automated configurator COCOS. Traditionally, representation methods for technical configuration have focused either on reasoning about structure of systems or quantity of components, which is not satisfactory in many target areas that need both. Starting from general requirements on configuration systems, we have developed an extension of the standard CSP model. The constraint-based approach allows a simple system architecture, and a declarative description of the different types of configuration knowledge. Knowledge bases are described in terms of a component-centered knowledge base written in an object-oriented representation language with semantics directly based on the underlying constraint model. The approach combines a simple, declarative representation with the ability to configure large-scale systems and is in use for actual production applications.
Adaptive biased‐coin designs for skewing the allocation proportion in clinical trials with normal responses

Response adaptive designs are used in phase III clinical trial for skewing the allocation pattern towards the better treatments. We use optimum design theory to derive adaptive designs when the responses are normally distributed. The performance of the designs is studied with respect to the loss and the proportion of allocation to different treatments. The adaptive design does not affect inference. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Managing the Pediatric Spine: Growth Assessment

Management of pediatric spinal deformities requires an accurate prediction of growth spurts to allow for timely initiation of treatment and prevention of curve progression. Determining remaining growth potential is also important for avoiding prolonged unnecessary treatment, e.g. bracing for patients nearing skeletal maturity. Many clinical and radiological growth parameters have been developed to aid clinicians in growth prediction. Of these, several commonly used measures such as height and arm span growth trends, timing of menarche, and the Risser sign are mostly retrospective and lack strong predictive utility. Bone age assessments, such as digital skeletal age and the distal radius and ulna classification, are more accurate parameters, but further research is required to determine interethnic variations and develop their role in management decisions.
Axonal transport of Listeria monocytogenes and nerve‐cell‐induced bacterial killing

Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) can cause fatal brainstem encephalitis in both sheep and humans. Here we review evidence that the bacteria can be incorporated into axons following a primary cycle of replication in macrophages/dendritic cells after subcutaneous injection in projection areas of peripheral neurons. The molecular mechanisms for the rocketing of L. monocytogenes in the cytosol by asymmetric cometic tails and the utility of this phenomenon for bacterial migration intraaxonally both in retro‐ and in anterograde directions to reach the central nervous system are described. The role of the immune response in the control of L. monocytogenes spread through peripheral neurons is highlighted, and a mechanism by which bacteria may be killed inside infected neurons through a nitric oxide‐dependent pathway is pointed out. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular and serological evaluation of surface antigen negative hepatitis B virus infection in blood donors from Venezuela

Surface antigen negative hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection was evaluated in Venezuela, by molecular characterization of blood samples positive for antibodies to core antigen (anti‐HBc) and negative for surface antigen (HBsAg) in blood donors (residual infections). HBV DNA was found in 11/258 samples (4.3%), and was significantly associated with high levels of anti‐HBc antibodies (>25 UI/ml, P < 0.05), while no correlation was found between the presence of HBV DNA and the levels of anti‐HBs. Synonymous and non‐synonymous mutations were found in the HBV surface region (but not vaccine escape mutants) and in the precore/core region (precore mutants in 2/7 samples and 33–45 bp deletions near the N‐terminal core region in 4/19 samples). While HBV genotype F prevails among HBsAg positive samples from blood donors in Venezuela, residual infection isolates were mainly genotypes A and D. Phylogenetic analysis of viral surface and core region revealed discrepancies in genotype designation in 6/9 samples, suggesting the presence of mixed infection or recombination. In conclusion, HBV residual infection in Venezuela does not seem to be frequently observed in HBV genotype F. This type of infection is frequently associated with variants exhibiting mutations in the surface gene that might be affecting the correct recognition by commercial tests, with precore mutants and with core internal deletions. These variants do not seem to cause severe liver disease, and on the contrary, were found circulating at low viremia. J. Med. Virol. 73:200–207, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antidepressant-Like Activity of Flunarizine in Modified Tail Suspension Test in Rats

Background: Flunarizine, a Ca 2+ channel blocker, crosses blood brain barrier (BBB), antagonizes calcium influx and interferes with neurotransmitter system. Flunarizine 20 mg/kg exhibited significant antidepressant activity in our previous study using forced swim test (FST) in mice, which was contradictory to the findings of other authors. Hence, the present study was designed to strengthen the results of our previous study, using the modified tail suspension test (TST) in rats. Aim: Aim of this study was to evaluate the antidepressant activity of flunarizine versus standard antidepressant drug fluoxetine in modified TST in rats. Materials and Methods: The study approved by Institutional Animal Ethics Committee was conducted using 24 adult albino rats (n = 6 in each group). Antidepressant effect of normal saline (0.1 ml/100 g), fluoxetine (10 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (ip)), and flunarizine (2 and 10 mg/kg, ip) was evaluated by using modified TST in rats. Thirty minutes after administration of all test drugs the duration of immobility was recorded for a period of 5 min in all rats by using modified TST. The data was analyzed by Student′s t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Mean duration of immobility was significantly reduced in fluoxetine and flunarizine (10 mg/kg, ip) group as compared to the normal saline, that is, 160.33, 175.17, and 226.83 s, respectively (P < 0.05). Decrease in immobility with flunarizine (10 mg/kg, ip) was statistically significant compared with normal saline, but was not found to be significant when compared to fluoxetine (P > 0.05). Also, currently used human dose of flunarizine when extrapolated to rats (i. e., 2 mg/kg, ip) failed to show significant antidepressant effect in modified TST in rats. Conclusion: The results of the present study indicate antidepressant-like activity of flunarizine.
Prospective study of symptom control in 133 cases of palliative care inpatients in Shatin Hospital

We report a prospective study assessing the prevalence and severity of physical and nonphysical symptoms, and the benefits from treatment and intervention, in advanced cancer patients presenting to a local palliative care unit in Hong Kong. Patients were assessed by a modified version of the support team assessment schedule (STAS). The study highlighted some symptoms which needed better control, and also reinforced the team morale by demonstrating aspects where there was definite improvement. In general, the STAS was found to be practicable and acceptable by our patients and staff. The most important benefit gained from the study was the successful dissemination of the concept of audit and quality assurance throughout the unit, which is essential for continuous improvement in the future.
Accident Proneness in Children and Adolescents Affected by ADHD and the Impact of Medication

Objective: This study aims to ascertain once and for all whether children and adolescents affected by ADHD show a higher risk for accidents, as well as investigating a possible association between the administration of ADHD-specific medication and the occurrence of accidents. Method: Two exceptionally large sets of data were implemented in this analysis. Participants included children and adolescents representative of the entire German population. Data for Survey 1 was collected through extensive administration of questionnaires. Data for Survey 2 stemmed from the records of a leading German health insurance company. In terms of statistical analysis, chi-square tests as well as logistic regression analyses were applied and odds ratios (ORs) were determined. Results: Innovative results are presented showing a significantly higher likelihood for ADHD-affected youngsters to be involved in accidents compared with their nonaffected counterparts (Survey 1: OR = 1.60; Survey 2: OR = 1.89) but lacking an overall significant influence of medication regarding the occurrence of accidents (Survey 1: OR = 1.28; Survey 2: OR = 0.97). Frequency of accidents could be predicted by ADHD, gender, and age in both samples. Medication intake served as a weak predictor only in Survey 2. Conclusion: It has been determined in two representative and independent German samples that youngsters with ADHD are at a significantly higher risk of being involved in accidents. In the future, this should always be considered when setting up a treatment plan to ensure a safer and healthier coming of age without relying solely on specific effects of medication. (J. of Att. Dis. 2016; 20(6) 501-509)
Effects of Process Parameters on the Passivation Properties of Anodic Aluminum Oxide/Silicon Interface

In this paper, surface passivation properties of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) on silicon substrate has been investigated. Metal-insulator-semiconductor with AAO as a dielectric layer is fabricated, and AAO/Si interface charges are evaluated from the capacitance-voltage (C-V) and conductance-voltage (G-V) characteristics. It has been observed that the effective charge density (Q<sub>eff</sub>) and interface defect density (D<sub>it</sub>) varied from -3.0 × 10<sup>10</sup> to 2.5 × 10<sup>11</sup> cm<sup>-2</sup> and 2.5 × 10<sup>10</sup> to 5.7 × 10<sup>11</sup> eV<sup>-1</sup>·cm<sup>-2</sup>, respectively, depending on the process conditions such as molarity of the electrolyte, electrolyte temperature, applied dc-bias voltage, and the type of the electrolyte used for growth of AAO through the electrochemical anodization process. Further, capacitance transient (C-t) characteristics are used to evaluate the minority carrier lifetime, and it is found that the use of the AAO passivation layer increases minority carrier lifetime to 90 μs from the initial value of 2 μs.
Astrocytic connexin distributions and rapid, extensive dye transfer via gap junctions in the inferior colliculus: Implications for [14C]glucose metabolite trafficking

The inferior colliculus has the highest rates of blood flow and metabolism in brain, and functional metabolic activity increases markedly in response to acoustic stimulation. However, brain imaging with [1‐ and 6‐14C]glucose greatly underestimates focal metabolic activation that is readily detected with [14C]deoxyglucose, suggesting that labeled glucose metabolites are quickly dispersed and released from highly activated zones of the inferior colliculus. To evaluate the role of coupling of astrocytes via gap junctions in dispersal of molecules within the inferior colliculus, the present study assessed the distribution of connexin (Cx) proteins in the inferior colliculus and spreading of Lucifer yellow from single microinjected astrocytes in slices of adult rat brain. Immunoreactive Cx43, Cx30, and Cx26 were heterogeneously distributed; the patterns for Cx43 and Cx 30 differed and were similar to those of immunoreactive GFAP and S100β, respectively. Most Cx43 was phosphorylated in resting and acoustically stimulated rats. Dye spreading revealed an extensive syncytial network that included thousands of cells and perivasculature endfeet; with 8% Lucifer yellow VS and a 5‐min diffusion duration, about 6,100 astrocytes (range 2,068–11,939) were labeled as far as 1–1.5 mm from the injected cell. The relative concentration of Lucifer yellow fell by 50% within 0.3–0.8 mm from the injected cell with a 5‐min diffusion interval. Perivascular dye labeling was readily detectable and often exceeded dye levels in nearby neuropil. Thus, astrocytes have the capability to distribute intracellular molecules quickly from activated regions throughout the large, heterogeneous syncytial volume of the inferior colliculus, and rapid trafficking of labeled metabolites would degrade resolution of focal metabolic activation. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
“Boys Will Be Boys” and Other Gendered Accounts

An examination of 944 victim narratives from the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) finds that one in five women who reveal an incident of sexual victimization to the NCVS excuse or justify their situations, largely by drawing on social vocabularies that suggest male sexual aggression is natural, normal within dating relationships, or the victim's fault. The study's findings substantiate the influence that rape myths and gender stereotypes have on victims' perceptions of their own unwanted sexual situations and demonstrate the ways in which cultural language delimits victims' recognition of sexual victimization as crime and inhibits reporting to the police.
[Studies on the clinical application of medical grade silicone rubber to maxillofacial prosthetics--bacteriological analysis of the surface adherent substance and the prevention of its attachment].

A medical grade silicone rubber (Silastic ® MDX 4-4210), which was developed as a biomaterial product, was applied to the maxillofacial prosthetics such as artificial palatal velum, artificial tongue plate, maxillary prosthesis and facial prosthesis in order to achieve a functional, cosmetic reconstraction more easily and more satisfactorily for rehabilitation. When such prosthesis had been used for a long time in the oral cavity, a white adherent substance was sometimes recognized on the surface of this material. Therefore, the surface contamination of the silicone rubber was investigated microscopically and the white adherent substance was analyzed bacteriologically. It was found that the bacterial species most frequently detected in the white adherent substance were Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Veillonella, Actinomyces and Fusobacterium, which are known as the predominant bacterial species of the oral microflora. By the scanning electoron microscopic findings, the adherent substances were very close to those of the early dental plaque. Candida albicans was found in a clinically negligible amount, less than 1.56% of the microflora in the adherent substance, although some investigators have reported the growth of Candida albicans on the silicone rubber denture liners. By coating with Silastic ® MDX 4-4210, the ordinary silicone rubber showed more surface smoothness and less attachment of adherent substances. Furthermore, by using an oxygene denture cleaner, the suppressive effect of the adherent substance on the surface of this material was recognized clinically.