Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Tuning of elliptic whispering-gallery-mode microdisk waveguide filters

High-Q semiconductor microdisk resonators laterally coupled to optical waveguides serve as compact and robust components in wavelength-division-multiplexing systems. We present an efficient algorithm for the two-dimensional design of wavelength-selective filters based on waveguide-coupled whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) microresonators of arbitrary cross-sectional shape. A full-wave integral equation formulation enables us to accurately account for the coupling between the resonator and bus waveguide as well as for radiation and material losses. Furthermore, we apply this approach to the analysis of elliptic-resonator filters. Filter tuning by changing the resonator shape from circular to elliptic reduces the dependence of the coupling efficiency on the width of the air gap. Two alternative coupling designs are suggested for monolithic and hybrid integration technologies. One is based on increasing the coupling length, while the other exploits the field concentration at the increased-curvature portion of the deformed WGM resonator.
The Carboxyl-terminal Domain(111165) of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Is Critical for Its Mitogenic Potency (*)

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent and specific mitogen for endothelial cells. VEGF is synthesized and secreted by many differentiated cells in response to a variety of stimuli including hypoxia. VEGF is expressed in a variety of tissues as multiple homodimeric forms (121, 165, 189, and 206 amino acids/monomer) resulting from alternative RNA splicing. VEGF is a soluble mitogen that does not bind heparin; the longer forms of VEGF bind heparin with progressively higher affinity. The higher molecular weight forms of VEGF can be cleaved by plasmin to release a diffusible form(s) of VEGF. We characterized the proteolysis of VEGF by plasmin and other proteases. Thrombin, elastase, and collagenase did not cleave VEGF, whereas trypsin generated a series of smaller fragments. The isolated plasmin fragments of VEGF were compared with respect to heparin binding, interaction with soluble VEGF receptors, and ability to promote endothelial cell mitogenesis. Plasmin yields two fragments of VEGF as indicated by reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography and SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis: an amino-terminal homodimeric protein containing receptor binding determinants and a carboxyl-terminal polypeptide which bound heparin. Amino-terminal sequencing of the carboxyl-terminal peptide identified the plasmin cleavage site as Arg-Ala. A heterodimeric form of VEGF, was isolated from partial plasmin digests of VEGF. The carboxyl-terminal polypeptide (111-165) displayed no affinity for soluble kinase domain region (KDR) or Fms-like tyrosine kinase (FLT-1) receptors. The various isoforms of VEGF (165, 165/110, 110, and 121) bound soluble kinase domain region receptor with similar affinity (approximately 30 pM). In contrast, soluble FLT-1 receptor differentiated VEGF isoforms (165, 165/110, 110, and 121) with apparent affinities of 10, 30, 120, and 200 pM, respectively. Endothelial cell mitogenic potencies of VEGF and VEGF were decreased more than 100-fold compared to that of VEGF. The present findings indicate that removal of the carboxyl-terminal domain, whether it is due to alternative splicing of mRNA or to proteolysis, is associated with a significant loss in bioactivity.
Pantropic retroviral vectors mediate somatic cell transformation and expression of foreign genes in dipteran insects

The control of insects that transmit disease and damage crops has become increasingly difficult. The ability to genetically engineer insects would facilitate strategies to protect crops and block arthropod vector-borne disease transmission. Transformation vectors based on insect transposable elements have been developed, but most have limited host ranges. A promising alternative is the pantropic retroviral vector, which is packaged with the envelope glycoprotein from vesicular stomatitis virus and is replication-defective. We show here that pantropic murine retroviral vectors can mediate high-level expression of foreign genes in somatically transformed insect larvae and adults of three dipteran genera. This success demonstrates the potential for germline transformation mediated by pantropic retroviral vectors.
Current pharmacological treatment approaches for alcohol dependence

Introduction: At present, the substances acamprosate, naltrexone and disulfiram are available for pharmacotherapy in alcohol dependence, but clinical studies found only modest effect sizes of these treatment options. Areas covered: This article focuses on current pharmacological treatment approaches for alcohol dependence, which have been evaluated in randomized, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs). Expert opinion: Besides the opioid system modulator nalmefene, which has recently been approved as a medication for the reduction of alcohol consumption, several compounds have been investigated in patients with alcohol dependence using a randomized, placebo-controlled design. In these studies, the antiepileptic drugs topiramate and gabapentin were found to be effective in improving several drinking-related outcomes, whereas levetiracetam failed to show efficacy in the treatment of alcohol dependence. Clinical studies using (low-dose) baclofen, a selective GABA-B receptor agonist, produced conflicting results, so that results of further trials are needed. Varenicline has also shown mixed results in two RCTs, but might possibly be useful in patients with comorbid nicotine dependence. The α1 adrenergic antagonist prazosin is currently under investigation in alcohol dependence with and without comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Finally, first clinical evidence suggests that the 5-HT3 antagonist ondansetron might possibly be used in future within a pharmacogenetic treatment approach in alcohol dependence.
Item Banking: A Generational Change in Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement

Purpose. Patient-reported outcomes are traditionally measured with questionnaires and many have been developed to measure Vision-Related Activity Limitation (VRAL; visual disability or visual functioning), Symptoms, and Quality Of Life (QOL). These vary in quality and can be classified as First or Second Generation instruments. First generation instruments are characterized by simple summary scoring of ordinal responses, which precludes interval measurement. This problem is solved in second generation instruments where Rasch analysis is used to optimize psychometric properties. However, second generation instruments retain limitations; difficulties in comparing scores across instruments, limited applicability to populations and inability to adapt to change. A third generation approach to patient-reported outcomes measurement, item banking, can solve these problems. The aim of this project was to use Rasch analysis to calibrate all items from all instruments to form VRAL, Symptoms, and QOL Item Banks. Methods. Six hundred twenty-four people on the waiting list for cataract surgery were recruited. Each participant completed, by self-administration, a number of the 19 instruments. A total of 353 items were calibrated using Rasch analysis (Winsteps v3.67). The psychometric properties of each item bank were optimized; items fitting the Rasch model were retained (Infit and Outfit range, 0.50 to 1.50). Results. Items were sorted into the three traits; 226 tapped VRAL, 22 symptoms, and 60 QOL. Satisfactory measurement of each latent trait occurred with person separation of 8.11 for VRAL, 2.33 for Symptoms, and 3.20 for QOL. Rasch estimates of item difficulty were highly stable with an average standard error of 0.11 logits. Conclusions. Item banks for the measurement of the latent traits of VRAL, symptoms, and QOL have been formed. New items can be added to enable evolution of measurement. Item banking facilitates accurate and precise measurement through computer adaptive testing. This approach provides common measurement scales, facilitating worldwide comparison of results.
Herschel : the first science highlights Special feature L etter to the E ditor The Herschel Virgo Cluster Survey VI . The far-infrared view of M 87

The origin of the far-infrared emission from the nearby radio galaxy M 87 remains a matter of debate. Some studies find evidence of a far-infrared excess due to thermal dust emission, whereas others propose that the far-infrared emission can be explained by synchrotron emission without the need for an additional dust emission component. We present Herschel PACS and SPIRE observations of M 87, taken as part of the science demonstration phase observations of the Herschel Virgo Cluster Survey. We compare these data with a synchrotron model based on mid-infrared, far-infrared, submm and radio data from the literature to investigate the origin of the far-infrared emission. Both the integrated SED and the Herschel surface brightness maps are adequately explained by synchrotron emission. At odds with previous claims, we find no evidence of a diffuse dust component in M 87, which is not unexpected in the harsh X-ray environment of this radio galaxy sitting at the core of the Virgo cluster.
An Overview of the Diabetic Foot: Pathogenesis, Management and Prevention of Lesions

Diabetic foot problems are not very g lamorous. Nevertheless, the diabetic foot i s the most common complication of diabetes, g reater than retinopathy, nephropathy, heart attack and stroke combined. Throughout the world, foot lesions and foot infections are the leading causes of hospitalization and prolonged ho spital stays for diabetics. Diabetic foot ulceration is the result of trauma to an insensate foot. Infection frequently follows and unless there is aggressive intervention, amputation becomes the e nd point. The management of diabetic foot problems is complicated and frequently requires the attention o f many specialists. The single most important factor in preventing amputation is detailed and repeated education of the patient in foot care. Physicians, clinics and hospitals who educate patients provide a ggressive ulcer and infection treatment and who p rescribe therapeutic shoes have reduced their amputation rate by 50%. This s hould b e the goal of everyone involved in the management of the diabetic patient.
Nonsmooth Optimization Using Mordukhovich's Subdifferential

In this paper, new results, which exhibit some new applications for Mordukhovich's subdifferential in nonsmooth optimization and variational problems, are established. Nonsmooth (fractional) multiobjective optimization problems in special Banach spaces are studied, and some necessary and sufficient conditions for weak Pareto-optimality for these problems are introduced. Through this work, we introduce into nonsmooth optimization theory in Banach algebras a new class of mathematical programming problems, which generalizes the notion of smooth KT-$(p,r)$-invexity. Some optimality conditions regarding the generalized KT-$(p,r)$-invexity notion and Kuhn-Tucker points are provided. Also, we seek a connection between linear (semi-) infinite programming and nonlinear programming. Some sufficient conditions for (proper) optimality under invexity are provided. A nonsmooth variational problem corresponding to a considered multiobjective problem is defined and the relations between the provided variational problem and the considered optimization problem are studied. The final part of the paper is devoted to illustrating a penalization mechanism, using the distance function as a tool, to provide some conditions to the solutions of the nonsmooth variational inequality problems. All results of the paper have been established in the absence of gradient vectors, using the properties of Mordukhovich's subdifferential in Asplund spaces.
Involvement of specific placental antigen X‐P2 in rat olfaction: An immunohistochemical study in the olfactory bulb

Human placental antigen X‐P2 (hPAX‐P2), an antigen complex associated with cytochrome P‐450 of aromatase within estrogen synthesizing tissues, has been reported to be present in a distinct group of rat primary olfactory receptors involved in suckling behavior. In this study, most of the mitral and tufted cells in the rat olfactory bulb were found to possess hPAX‐P2 immunoreactivity. This suggests that the activity of these cells can be hormonally modulated and that hPAX‐P2 is involved in rat olfaction not only at the receptor level but also at integrative brain levels via the secondary projecting neurons of the olfactory pathway.
The Impact of Knowledge Sharing Enablers on Employees' Performance: An Empirical Study on READ Foundation in Azad Jammu & Kashmir

To investigate the critical role that knowledge sharing enablers play in putting into practice knowledge management within schools' and impacting schools' performance. The field of knowledge management aims at enhancing performance through knowledge sharing enablers. However, not all knowledge sharing enablers have same effects. This study attempted at categorizing enablers among knowledge management users/teachers and examine whether performance changes due to these enablers. Existing literature was reviewed to shape the study design. Present research is quantitative in nature and was conducted through personal interviews to explore the proposed relationships. An instrument was adopted which was tested for validity and reliability. The research instrument was administered to respondents and 110 responses were acquired. Convenience sampling is used to select the respondents. Descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analysis were used to analyse data. The current research found that among the knowledge sharing enablers' cultural characteristics, rewards and incentives, management support, and organisation structure have significant positive relationship with schools' performance and these results supported the previous studies. The findings also indicate that growth in job and task achievement is also positively related with schools' performance. The result also revealed that knowledge sharing enablers (cultural characteristics, rewards and incentives, management support, organisation structure) are becoming important to increase teachers' motivation. The findings also reflect that among the knowledge sharing enabler's; organisation structure has more influence on employees' performance. The present research results not only confirmed theory with practice; but also presented a reference for the knowledge practitioners as well as the teachers and business professionals. The present study has revealed that setting up knowledge sharing enablers are important for implementing knowledge management and is an important mean for improving organisational performance. Knowledge sharing does not only help in managing knowledge, but instead it plays the role of enhancing organisational performance by taking on the duty of assisting and coordinating different departments in their sharing of information and knowledge.
A 5-Gb/s CDR Circuit With Automatically Calibrated Linear Phase Detector

This paper presents a 5-Gb/s clock and data recovery (CDR) circuit which implements a calibration circuit to correct static phase offsets in a linear phase detector. Static phase offsets directly reduce the performance of CDR circuits as the incoming data is not sampled at the center of the eye. Process nonidealities can cause static phase offsets in linear phase detectors by adversely affecting the circuits in a way which is difficult to design for, making calibration an attractive solution. Both the calibration algorithm and test chip implementation are described and measured results are presented. The CDR circuit was fabricated in a 0.18-mum, six metal layer standard CMOS process. With a pseudorandom bit sequence of 27 - 1 calibration improved the measured bit error rate from 4.6 x 10-2 to less than 10-13.
Enzymatic formation of 9‐cis, 13‐cis, and all‐trans retinals from isomers of β‐carotene

9‐cis Retinoic acid is a highly preferred ligand for the nuclear retinoic acid receptor RXR. Although 9‐cis retinoic acid can be formed from all‐trans retinoic acid in vivo and in vitro, the nature of the isomerization process has not been defined. 9‐cis‐Retinoic acid might also be formed biologically from 9‐cis β‐carotene, an isomer of β‐carotene commonly found in foods. We have observed that enzyme preparations of rat liver and intestine convert highly purified 9‐cis β‐carotene (99.8%) to a mixture of 9‐cis, all‐trans, and 13‐cis retinals. Highly purified all‐trans β‐carotene (99.7%) and 13‐cis β‐carotene (99%) are primarily converted to all‐trans retinal. Several aldehyde dehydrogenases in tissues can convert retinal to retinoic acid. Although the rates of cleavage of 9‐cis and 13‐cis β‐carotenes are slower than that of the all‐trans isomer, the oxidative conversion of 9‐cis β‐carotene to 9‐cis and all‐trans retinals is the first identified enzymatic reaction for the formation of 9‐cis retinal in animal tissues. — Nagao, A. , Olson, J. A. Enzymatic formation of 9‐cis, 13‐cis, and all‐trans retinals from isomers of β‐carotene. FASEB J. 8: 968‐973; 1994.
Quality of life and satisfaction outcomes of endodontic treatment.

The purpose of this study was to assess quality of life and satisfaction in relation to endodontic treatment in two Canadian populations and the association of these outcomes with the treatment providers' level of training (generalist or endodontist). New patients aged 25 to 40, presenting at the dental faculties in Toronto and Saskatoon were screened. Patients with radiographically identifiable endodontic treatment were invited for interviews conducted using a questionnaire that measured changes in quality of life after endodontic treatment and semantic differential scales that measured satisfaction with endodontic treatment. Data were analyzed using Chi-square, multiple and logistic regression (p < 0.05), and Mann-Whitney U test (p < 0.02). Subjects reported preoperative factors (e.g., pain, sleep disturbances) impacting quality of life, which improved after endodontic treatment, significantly more in the Toronto than in the Saskatoon population. Satisfaction was significantly better when endodontic treatment was provided by endodontists.
Second Primary Malignancies in the Head and Neck Cancer Patient

With improvements in locoregional control, the problem of second primary malignancies is rapidly being pushed to the forefront of head and neck oncology. While the constant long-term risk for the head and neck cancer patient has been well established, efforts at prevention, early detection, and treatment have been somewhat futile. Recent advances in genetic predisposition, biomarkers, photodiagnostic imaging, and differentiation therapy may soon offer improved outcomes. The literature is reviewed and current research is presented regarding the history, epidemiology, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of second primary malignancies.
An ecological analysis of child sexual abuse disclosure: considerations for child and adolescent mental health.

OBJECTIVES Research continues to indicate a concerning number of children and youth, between 60-80%, withhold disclosure until adulthood suggesting that many children endure prolonged victimization or never receive necessary intervention. The study aim was to qualitatively identify factors that impede or promote child sexual abuse (CSA) disclosure. METHODS Using a phenomenological design, forty adult survivors of CSA were interviewed about their disclosure experiences to provide retrospective accounts of their childhood and adolescent abuse experiences, disclosure attempts, and meaning-making of these experiences. RESULTS Findings show that disclosure is multiply determined by a complex interplay of factors related to child characteristics, family environment, community influences, and cultural and societal attitudes. An ecological analysis is offered to understand these complexities. Unless barriers to disclosure are eradicated, negative effects of CSA can persist manifesting in serious mental health issues. CONCLUSIONS Practitioners can expect to work with children, adolescents and adults who have withheld disclosure or attempted to tell over time having experienced a wide range of responses. Multi-level intervention is recommended at the individual, community and macro-levels. Future investigations should focus on how to identify and measure the impact of community and macro level factors on disclosure, aspects that have received much less attention.
Building a National Research Network for Clinical Investigations in Otology and Neurotology

Background: Practice-based research networks (PBRNs) are the preferred research setting for descriptive/epidemiologic studies and studies that explore the effectiveness of treatments for disease that are managed in community settings, away from the rubric of the academic medical center. A PBRN in otology/neurotology, established upon a sustainable research infrastructure, addresses the challenges of performing community-based research through enhanced support for data collection and facilitated research regulatory adherence. A strategic alignment of a PBRN with an established research infrastructure allows for successful implementation of a variety of study methodologies and a framework for successful competition for research funding in hearing and balance disorders. Our goal is to develop a centralized, high-quality research infrastructure that supports a dynamic research alliance between regional centers for research excellence, community physicians, allied health professionals, and patients. Objective: We describe herein current plans and progress toward the goal of developing a network of academic- and community-based research sites to facilitate the conduct of clinical research in hearing and balance disorders. We have formed a PBRN that we call the CHEER Network: Creating Healthcare Excellence through Education and Research. Creating healthcare excellence through education and research was proposed in response to a request for applications from the National Institute for Deafness and other Communication Disorders to further develop clinical research in otolaryngology, specifically focusing on disorders in hearing and balance. Conclusion: Our expectation is that a network organized and focused around regional research alliances between academic institutions and community practitioners will have broad appeal to community-based health care professionals and patients, resulting in enhanced communications, interoperability, and success in the conduct of high-quality multicenter clinical research in hearing and balance disorders.