jimnoneill/paper-to-field-training huggingface dataset:
Over-expression of myostatin gene mRNA in skeletal muscle of patients with myotonic dystrophy

Field: Medicine (Health Sciences)

Objective To explore the expression of myostatin, a negative regulator of muscle growth, in the skeletal muscle of myotonic dystrophy patients and its significance.Methods The semi- quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was performed to evaluate the expression of myostatin in the skeletal muscle of 4 myotonic dystrophy patients and 4 healthy controls.The relationship between the expression of myostatin mRNA in myotonic dystrophy and pathological features was analyzed. Results Increased expression level of myostatin gene mRNA was noted in skeletal muscle of myotonic dystrophy patients compared to that of healthy controls(2.25±1.04 vs 0.34±0.15, t=3.707, P= 0.01).The expression of myostatin mRNA in myotonic dystrophy was unrelated to the percent of atrophic muscular fibers in biceps biopsy(r=-0.719, t=2.95, P0.05).Conclusions The expression of myostatin gene mRNA is increased in myotonic dystrophy.Up-regulated expression of myostatin in skeletal muscle might be associated with the mechanism of myotonic dystrophy.
CORRELATION BETWEEN INCLINATION OF THE ACETABULAR COMPONENT AND METAL ION LEVELS IN METAL ON METAL HIP REPLACEMENT

Field: Medicine (Health Sciences)

Introduction The advantages of metal on metal (MOM) hip replacement are decreased wear rate, preservation of bone stock, anatomical restoration and enhanced stability. Large amounts of metal wear particles and metal ions are released which may induce adverse reactions including local soft tissue toxicity, hypersensitivity reactions, bone loss and risk of carcinogenesis. Aseptic loosening can be the result of a peri prosthetic osteolysis generated as a result of a biological response to particulate wear debris. Our aim in this study was to determine whether a steeply inclined acetabular component would give rise to a higher concentration of metal ions. Patients and methods Between April 2003 and June 2006, 22 patients had MOM hip replacement for osteoarthritis by a single Surgeon. There were 12 male and 10 female patients. The average age at the time of surgery was 56 years (Range: 44–69 years). We divided the 22 patients into 2 groups, one group (A) of 11 patients with the acetabular inclination angle more than 50 degrees and the other group (B) of 11 patients with the angle less than 50 degrees. The inclination of the acetabular cup was measured using a standard AP radiograph of the pelvis. The patients had metal ion levels (blood chromium and serum cobalt) measured at an average follow up of 3.2 years (Range 2.4 to 5 years). Results Mean blood chromium level in the group A (146 nM/L) was significantly higher (p=0.005) than in Group B (92 nM/L). Mean serum cobalt level in the group A (245 nM/L) was significantly higher (p=0.002) than in Group B (110 nM/L). Discussion The early to mid term published results of MOM hip replacements have been encouraging. There are, however, a number of concerns about the MOM bearing. Although its wear rate is low, it still releases metal ions into the body particularly cobalt and chromium since most metal on metal bearings are made of a cobalt chromium alloy. The long-term consequences of increased levels of these ions in the body are not known. High concentrations of Co and Cr are toxic and are known to interfere with a number of biological functions. There also have been recent reports of soft tissue reactions with MOM hip replacement. In the light of these concerns, it is important to examine factors which may influence the release of metal ions after MOM hip replacement. It has been reported in the recent literature that the position of the acetabular component will influence the bearing wear inturn leading to the release of metal ions after MOM hip replacement. Our findings indicate that steeply inclined acetabular components with an inclination angle greater than 50 degrees gives rise to higher concentration of metal ions.
Richard Hill: A biographical dictionary of the Sudan. The second edition of A biographical dictionary of the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan. [iv], xvi, 409 pp. London: Frank Cass and Co.Ltd., 1967. 90s.

Field: Arts and Humanities (Social Sciences)

Richard Hill: A biographical dictionary of the Sudan. The second edition of A biographical dictionary of the Anglo-Egyptian Sudan. [iv], xvi, 409 pp. London: Frank Cass and Co.Ltd., 1967. 90s. - Volume 31 Issue 1
Characterization of ring shake defect in chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) wood in the Lazio Region (Italy)

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences (Life Sciences)

Summary The incidence of ring shake in chestnut wood (Castanea sativa Mill.) from eight sites (237 total trees) in the Lazio territory, in central Italy, was investigated. All the areas studied are coppice managed. The aim of this study was to increase knowledge of this defect through the measurement and classification of numerous indices. using analysis of variance and correlation analysis, age was found to be the principal factor affecting the ring shake defect, the incidence of which was highest in trees aged 30 years or over. The highest risk of splitting occurred in the 12- to 14-year-old age group, although cracking started with a certain intensity at an age of 7–8 years. Comparing trees of the same age (25–30), it can be seen that diameter was not strongly related to magnitude of defect, but it had the effect of moving the ring shake location outwards. Wood defects (star shake, injuries, double core and eccentricity of core) and stem defects (cortical cancer, epicormic branches, dead branches and bark cracking) were not significantly correlated with shake: indeed, only bark cracking and injuries seem to have a slight influence on ring shake risk.
Investigations into trainable picture processing systems

Field: Computer Science (Physical Sciences)

This work concerns the development of a new type of picture processing system for images represented as digital arrays of pixels. This is a synthesis of two established ideas, already under independent investigation. The first of these is picture processing by look-up tables. This is a fast method of generating pixel outputs as a result of input pixels accessing a particular region of a look-up table, pre-loaded with the required data. The second idea is the use of RAMs as learning machines. Here, RAM elements are connected together so as to be alterable in data content by training stimuli in a coherent manner. This results in a system able to exhibit definite responses to later test stimuli, and thus identify these stimuli unambiguously. The methods used for bringing these two conceptstogether are described here. A practicable picture processor results, which can be trained by examples. That is, it can perform a picture transformation simply by presenting to the machine (in a prior training phase) examples of the process. From this, the machine deduces the information necessary to be able to perform the same transformation on unseen patterns. Experiments have been performed on a wide range of variations on this theme. Different types of machines acting on different data and tasks have been tried, under various conditions. A description is given of these machine variations, together with a generalized system fordescribing such variations more formally. The machines were simulated in practice on a microcomputer system; The simulation software used in these investigations is also described. Finally, the implications and limitations of such machines are discussed with reference to their ultimate performance and possible applications in fields other than picture processing.<p>
Design and implementation of a cost-effective microscope for fabrication and imaging

Field: Engineering (Physical Sciences)

The use of lasers and optical systems for advanced research and demonstrative purposes has traditionally been cost-prohibitive for many researchers. In this note, we present the design and optimization of a low-cost microscopy setup capable of imaging, fabrication or photopolymerization via multiphoton excitation of a photoactivator and the study of processes such as diffusion using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP). The setup features a continuous wave (CW) Ar-ion laser, a pulsed Nd3+:YAG laser, an inverted microscope with a CCD camera and appropriate optics. The setup is cost-effective and puts a once-expensive setup within reach of more researchers interested in micron- and sub-micron-scale processes.
Topotecan in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer.

Field: Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics (Life Sciences)

According to the American Cancer Society, 178,100 new cases of lung cancer were predicted in 1997, with an estimated 5-year relative survival rate of 11% to 14%. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the most prevalent type of lung cancer, presents an extraordinary challenge to the oncologist, because most patients present with advanced unresectable disease. Cisplatin, one of the most effective single agents against NSCLC, has only moderate antitumor effect and limited impact on survival. Combination regimens also show little increase in survival. In the search for better treatments for NSCLC, new agents with novel mechanisms of action have been explored. In preclinical studies, topotecan (Hycamtin; SmithKline Beecham Pharmaceuticals, Philadelphia, PA), a topoisomerase I inhibitor, demonstrated activity in a variety of animal tumor models. Results from subsequent phase I and phase II clinical trials, summarized here, suggest that topotecan has modest activity against NSCLC and that its role in the treatment of this disease should be evaluated further.
Teachers' E-feedback (e-mails) for EFL Students' Academic Writing Development

Field: Arts and Humanities (Social Sciences)

The aim of the current study is to shed light on the potential of e-feedback in a form of e-mails for improving second year LMD students' academic writing at Batna 2University. Data were collected through a semi-experimental qualitative research. Based on the findings, the researcher found that there was a positive effect of using e-feedback (e-mails) on improving students' academic writing. In general, e-feedback as a fresh and modern pedagogic practice was effective in many ways as providing positive learning environment various from the physical rigid classroom environment, which increased students' participation. Thus, the present study recommends that teachers should focus more on the use of e-feedback particularly e-mail in responding on students' writings. Moreover, the researcher recommends decision makers to arrange workshops for training teachers in this new educational tool.
Modified G-S Adaptive Null Forming Algorithm Applied to Radar

Field: Engineering (Physical Sciences)

For the problem that the researches on Gram-Schmidt(G-S) adaptive null forming algorithm are still theoretical researches and there is no study on its application to LPI(Low Probability of Intercept) radar,a method of applying modified Gram-Schmidt(G-S) adaptive null forming algorithm to continuous wave(CW) radar is proposed.This algorithm can remove the target signals from the received signals and just leave the jamming signals to be orthogonalized,preventing that target signals are treated as jamming signals.Array pattern,null analysis and error analysis show that the modified G-S algorithm can form deeper null and has better stability.Then it verifies that the modified G-S algorithm can effectively improve radar's LPI performance.
Zooplankton biomass gradient off south-western Nova Scotia: nearshore ctenophore predation or hydrographic separation?

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences (Life Sciences)

A persistent large-scale cross-shelf gradient in zooplankton biomass >1050 μm was evident off south-western Nova Scotia during annual spring surveys between 1985 and 1987, with relatively low levels inshore and higher levels offshore. Conversely, the abundance of the tentaculate ctenophore Pleurobrachia pileus was the greatest inshore, and distributed reciprocally to zooplankton >1050 μm. The principle prey of both adult ctenophores and post-larval cod is zooplankton >1050 μm (primarily calanoid copepods), and cod growth rates are strongly influenced by prey biomass. Ctenophore predation appears to have been responsible for the low nearshore zooplankton biomass, whereas the influence of hydrographic factors on the zooplankton gradient was minimal. On a smaller scale, persistent, abrupt changes in zooplankton biomass >1050 μm and ctenophore density existed 3–30 km from shore, in contrast to linear gradients in water density (σ 1 ) during a 5 week sampling period in spring 1987. Ctenophores were confined to depths <55 m and zooplankton >1050 μm predominantly occurred at depths >55 m. High concentrations of chlorophyll and phaeopigment were evident at depths <55 m also suggesting intense predation by ctenophores on large herbivores. The relatively high proportion of smaller zooplankton (153–308 –m) in the nearshore is also consistent with the predation hypothesis. The reduced growth experienced by post-larval cod inshore appears generated by ctenophore predation of a common prey resource.
Monitoring the organizational wellness of a physician residency program: A quality improvement process

Field: Health Professions (Health Sciences)

Background Burnout and depression throughout physicians’ career cycles have been increasing. There has been a call for medical education leaders to devote resources to bolster the next generation of providers and shift the culture of medicine to organizational initiatives that impact physician well-being. Objective: The goal of this project has been to monitor and improve the organizational wellness of a residency program based on four core organizational areas: (1) culture of meaning and mission, (2) work capacity, (3) control and flexibility in decision-making, and (4) creativity in work–life balance. Method: A quality improvement strategy was implemented to monitor organizational wellness. The wellness was assessed five times over the course of 18 months. The survey was designed to evaluate the four core components. At each time interval, improvement strategies were implemented to address the wellness drains and strengthen drivers. Results: The four time series evaluations (residents: n = 19) indicated that culture of meaning, teamwork, and personal creativity are consistent wellness drivers. Work capacity and lack of control over decision-making were consistent drains. From first until last measurement, there was a slight improvement in control-decision-making; however, the burden of electronic medical record (EMR) charting and strains of coverage continue to drain our residency. Discussion and Conclusions: This model incorporates four categories for assessing organizational wellness within a residency program. The conceptual model is used as a framework to define, measure, analyze, and improve on organizational wellness. This process provides programs with a feedback approach to continually monitor and reassess the wellness of the organizational systems.
Home visiting to an HIV positive patient prior to initiation of HAART has Lasting impact on their adherence. TASO Experience

Field: Health Professions (Health Sciences)

The AIDS Support Organization (TASO) is a national non governmental organization in Uganda, whose mission is preventing HIV infection, restoring hope and improving the quality of life of individuals, families and communities infected and affected by HIV and disease. Patients are usually screened for ART eligibility by CD4 and WHO staging. When the patient is found to be eligible a home visit is arranged for with the patient consent to. During the home visit, which is done by a counselor/field staff, psychological and social preparation is done. This involves seeking for long lasting family support to the patients, identification and addressing barriers to adherence in the home, and identification of a medicine supporter. Also during the home visit adherence plan is made by the patient and this is routinely reviewed during the subsequent counseling sessions.
Predicting tumor hypoxia in non-small cell lung cancer by combining CT, FDG PET and dynamic contrast-enhanced CT

Field: Medicine (Health Sciences)

Background: Most solid tumors contain inadequately oxygenated (i.e., hypoxic) regions, which tend to be more aggressive and treatment resistant. Hypoxia PET allows visualization of hypoxia and may enable treatment adaptation. However, hypoxia PET imaging is expensive, time-consuming and not widely available. We aimed to predict hypoxia levels in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using more easily available imaging modalities: FDG-PET/CT and dynamic contrast-enhanced CT (DCE-CT). Material and methods: For 34 NSCLC patients, included in two clinical trials, hypoxia HX4-PET/CT, planning FDG-PET/CT and DCE-CT scans were acquired before radiotherapy. Scans were non-rigidly registered to the planning CT. Tumor blood flow (BF) and blood volume (BV) were calculated by kinetic analysis of DCE-CT images. Within the gross tumor volume, independent clusters, i.e., supervoxels, were created based on FDG-PET/CT. For each supervoxel, tumor-to-background ratios (TBR) were calculated (median SUV/aorta SUVmean) for HX4-PET/CT and supervoxel features (median, SD, entropy) for the other modalities. Two random forest models (cross-validated: 10 folds, five repeats) were trained to predict the hypoxia TBR; one based on CT, FDG, BF and BV, and one with only CT and FDG features. Patients were split in a training (trial NCT01024829) and independent test set (trial NCT01210378). For each patient, predicted, and observed hypoxic volumes (HV) (TBR > 1.2) were compared. Results: Fifteen patients (3291 supervoxels) were used for training and 19 patients (1502 supervoxels) for testing. The model with all features (RMSE training: 0.19 ± 0.01, test: 0.27) outperformed the model with only CT and FDG-PET features (RMSE training: 0.20 ± 0.01, test: 0.29). All tumors of the test set were correctly classified as normoxic or hypoxic (HV > 1 cm3) by the best performing model. Conclusions: We created a data-driven methodology to predict hypoxia levels and hypoxia spatial patterns using CT, FDG-PET and DCE-CT features in NSCLC. The model correctly classifies all tumors, and could therefore, aid tumor hypoxia classification and patient stratification.
Sum rules via large deviations

Field: Mathematics (Physical Sciences)

In this paper, a sum rule means a relationship between a functional defined on a subset of all probability measures on $\mathbb{R}$ involving the reverse Kullback-Leibler divergence with respect to a particular distribution and recursion coefficients related to the orthogonal polynomial construction. The first sum rule is the Szegő-Verblunsky theorem (see Simon (2011) Theorem 1.8.6 p. 29) and concerns the case of trigonometrical polynomials on the torus. More recently, Killip and Simon (2003) have given a revival interest to this subject by showing a quite surprising sum rule for measures dominating the semicircular distribution. Indeed, this sum rule includes a contribution of the atomic part of the measure away from the support of the circular law. In this paper, we recover this sum rules by using only large deviations tools on random matrices. Furthermore, we obtain new (up to our knowledge) magic sum rules for the reverse Kullback-Leibler divergence with respect to the Pastur-Marchenko or Kesten-McKay distributions. As in the semicircular case, these formulas generally include a contribution of the atomic part appearing away from the support of the reference measure. From the point of view of large deviations, we obtain these formulas by showing a large deviation principle for the point mass measure concentrated on random eigenvalues of classical ensembles and combine it with a large deviation principle due to Gamboa Rouault (2011) for the recursion coefficients.
Correlation between Inflammatory Signals and Tumor Associated Macrophages in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Field: Medicine (Health Sciences)

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma grows in a complex and dynamic stroma.This microenvironment provides all the necessary stimuli for tumor viability, growth and invasiveness.COX-2 is upregulated during both inflammation and cancer.CD163, a marker of M2 macrophages (Tumor associated macrophages-TAMs), has been studied in several aggressive tumors.The increased expression of CD163 was associated with a poor overall survival in various cancers. Aims of the Study:The present study aimed to correlate the inflammatory signals presented by COX-2 immunoexpresion with tumor associated macrophages expressing CD163 in different grades of OSCC. Materials and methods:Immunohistochemical expression of COX-2 and CD163 was evaluated in 30 cases of different grades of OSCC. Results:The mean difference between the well-differentiated level and the moderately differentiated level of COX-2 and CD 163 was statistically insignificant, while that between the well-and poorly differentiated and between the moderately and the poorly differentiated were highly statistically significant.Conclusions: inflammatory signals presented by COX-2 immunoexpression and TAM (CD163+ cells) were elevated with increased tumor grade.
Synthesis and Characterization of a New Ruthenium(II)‐1, 2,4‐Triazepine Complex

Field: Chemistry (Physical Sciences)

The reaction of [RuCl2(PPh3)3] complex with 2,7‐dimethyl‐3, 5‐dithioxo‐3, 4, 5, 6‐tetrahydro‐2H‐1, 2, 4‐triazepine (H2TAZS) provide the cis‐[Ru(PPh3)2(HTAZS)2] mononuclear complex in the presence of triethylamine. X‐ray diffraction studies and NMR spectroscopic results are reported here.
Sufficient Statistics and Latent Trait Models

Field: Mathematics (Physical Sciences)

For questionnaires with two answer categories, it has been proven in complete generality that if a minimal sufficient statistic exists for the individual parameter and if it is the same statistic for all values of the item parameters, then the raw score (or the number of correct answers) is the minimal sufficient statistic. It follows that the model must by of the Rasch type with logistic item characteristic curves and equal item-discriminating powers. This paper extends these results to multiple choice questionnaires. It is shown that the minimal sufficient statistic for the individual parameter is a function of the so-called score vector. It is also shown that the so-called equidistant scoring is the only scoring of a questionnaire that allows for a real valued sufficient statistic that is independent of the item parameters, if a certain ordering property for the sufficient statistic holds.