LLukas22/scidocs huggingface dataset:
Disrupted structural and functional brain connectomes in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia, comprising an estimated 60–80% of all dementia cases. It is clinically characterized by impairments of memory and other cognitive functions. Previous studies have demonstrated that these impairments are associated with abnormal structural and functional connections among brain regions, leading to a disconnection concept of AD. With the advent of a combination of non-invasive neuroimaging (structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), diffusion MRI, and functional MRI) and neurophysiological techniques (electroencephalography and magnetoencephalography) with graph theoretical analysis, recent studies have shown that patients with AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), the prodromal stage of AD, exhibit disrupted topological organization in large-scale brain networks (i.e., connectomics) and that this disruption is significantly correlated with the decline of cognitive functions. In this review, we summarize the recent progress of brain connectomics in AD and MCI, focusing on the changes in the topological organization of large-scale structural and functional brain networks using graph theoretical approaches. Based on the two different perspectives of information segregation and integration, the literature reviewed here suggests that AD and MCI are associated with disrupted segregation and integration in brain networks. Thus, these connectomics studies open up a new window for understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of AD and demonstrate the potential to uncover imaging biomarkers for clinical diagnosis and treatment evaluation for this disease.
New Thinking About Instructional Leadership

Numerous studies spanning the past three decades link high-quality leadership with positive school outcomes. Recognition of the importance of school leadership has led to increased attention to recruiting and preparing school leaders. Many new principal preparation and development programs emphasize the role of principals as " instructional leaders. " This emphasis on instructional leadership was driven in large part by the effective schools movement of the 1970s and 1980s and has since been renewed because of increasing demands that school leaders be held accountable for student performance (Hallinger 2005). However, while broad agreement exists on the importance of instructional leadership, there is less consensus on what instructional leadership actually is. Some construe instructional leadership as synonymous with classroom observations and direct teaching of students and teachers. Informed by observations and interviews in hundreds of schools, we call for a different view of instructional leadership, one that includes broader personnel practices and resource allocation practices as central to instructional improvement. Traditional Ideas The traditional instructional leadership literature emphasizes teaching and learning aspects of school leadership. This research generally concludes that a strong, directive principal , focused on curriculum and instruction, is essential for effective schools. Writers in this tradition have characterized successful instructional leaders as " hands-on " leaders, engaged with curriculum and instruction issues, unafraid to work directly with teachers, and often present in classrooms. Out of this literature has arisen a prototype of ideal instructional leaders — outstanding teachers, inspired to use their exceptional teaching skills to impact student learning. Leaders could mentor their teaching staff by observing practice, providing pointed feedback , and modeling instruction when necessary. Although this is an appealing portrait of the ideal, this model is actually poorly suited to the reality of many of today's schools. That reality includes large high schools serving some 3,000 students with courses ranging from Advanced Placement Calculus to service learning. No matter how extensive the teaching background of a school leader, could anyone have the content knowledge and relevant experience to coach one beginning teacher in how to engage students in British poetry of World War I and another on how to differentiate instruction in general chemistry? Even if school leaders have the requisite expertise, imagine them finding the time to regularly observe 250 teachers or provide extensive hands-on mentoring on curriculum and instruction. A different view of instructional leadership emphasizes organizational management for instructional improvement rather than …
[Development and validation of the Social Functioning Scale, short version, in schizophrenia for its use in the clinical practice].

INTRODUCTION
The Social Functioning Scale (SFS) was designed to evaluate social functioning essential to schizophrenic patients. Its length may be difficult to use in clinical practice. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a short version of the SFS.


METHODS
Data from 445 patients with schizophrenia who came from two separate studies, one longitudinal (n=250) and one cross-sectional (n=195), were used to produce and validate the short form of the SFS. The two samples were combined and then randomly split into two subsamples. In the first subsample (n = 223), items were eliminated using classical, modern (item response theory) psychometric criteria, as well as clinimetric criteria. The short version was independently validated using data from the other subsample (n = 222), by comparing the level of association (correlation and Area Under the ROC Curve [AUC]) with the EQ-5D VAS and the Clinical Global Impression (CGI), with the original scale.


RESULTS
The original 78 items were reduced initially to 19 and 13 items (respectively using classic and modern psychometric criteria) and then to 15, since 2 items related with the employment capacity were added for clinometric criteria. The short form of the SFS had a Cronbach's alpha of 0.76. Spearman correlation coefficients with the EQ-5D VAS and with the CGI score (0.46 and 0.42, respectively) were similar or even higher for the short version than for the original version. The AUC of the SFS and the dichotomous CGI were practically the same for both the original (AUC: 0.74) and the short (AUC: 0.73) versions.


CONCLUSIONS
The short version of the SFS proved to be reliable and valid. It could be adequate for use in clinical practice.
Simulation of losses in LV cables due to nonlinear loads

Companies active in distribution or transmission of electrical energy know the power losses in their HV and MV cables. Users have no idea of the magnitude of the cable power losses in their electrical installations. Nevertheless cable power losses can be a significant part (3%-5%) of the total power consumption. Nonlinear loads (ASD, CLF, IT-equipment,...) are often installed with the aim of rational energy use. However, one is not aware of the increase of cable losses due to the nonlinear load. A software tool is developed in order to enable companies to simulate the supply system losses of their present or future electrical installation in an easy way, including the use of both active or passive filter systems. In this paper the power losses in LV cables are analyzed, including the impact of nonlinear loads. A simple model is proposed in order to calculate power losses in a quick way. The model uses an equivalent resistance, taking into account frequency dependency by means of a correction factor only dependent on the conductor cross section and not on the current harmonic spectrum. The model is validated by experiments. Deviations less than 5% are found. Because of the suitability of the model for a wide range of harmonic spectra, power losses can be easily calculated with sufficient accuracy without the knowledge of the current harmonic spectrum. The paper also includes a sensitivity analysis of parameters influencing cable losses and some practical recommendations to reduce cable losses.
Cross-cultural validation of a disease-specific patient-reported outcome measure for systemic lupus erythematosus in Canada.

OBJECTIVE
The LupusPRO, a disease-targeted patient-reported outcome measure, was developed and validated in US patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We report the results of the cross-cultural validation study of the English version of the LupusPRO among patients in Canada with SLE.


METHOD
The LupusPRO was administered to English-speaking Canadian patients with SLE. Demographic, clinical, and serological characteristics were obtained, and the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 (SF-36) and LupusPRO were administered. Disease activity was ascertained using the Safety of Estrogens in Lupus Erythematosus National Assessment-Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SELENA-SLEDAI) and the Lupus Foundation of America definition of flare (Yes/No). Damage was assessed using the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index (SDI). Physician disease activity and damage assessments were also ascertained using visual analog scales. A mail-back LupusPRO form was completed within 2-3 days of the index visit. Items tested were internal consistency reliability (ICR), test-retest reliability (TRT), convergent and discriminant validity (against corresponding domains of the SF-36), criterion validity (against disease activity or health status), and known-groups validity.


RESULTS
Participants were 123 Canadian patients with SLE (94% women); mean age was 47.7 (SD 14.8) years. The median (interquartile range) SELENA-SLEDAI and SDI were 4 (6) and 1 (3), respectively. The ICR of the LupusPRO domains ranged from 0.60 to 0.93, while the TRT range was 0.62-0.95. Measures observed were convergent and discriminant validity with corresponding domains of SF-36, criterion validity, and known-groups validity against disease activity, damage, and health status. Confirmatory factor analysis showed a good fit.


CONCLUSION
The LupusPRO has fair psychometric properties among Canadian patients with SLE, and prospective studies to establish minimally important difference are continuing.
Real Time Fabric Defect Detection System on an Embedded DSP Platform

In industrial fabric productions, automated real time systems are needed to find out the minor defects. It will save the cost by not transporting defected products and also would help in making compmay image of quality fabrics by sending out only undefected products. A real time fabric defect detection system (FDDS), implementd on an embedded DSP platform is presented here. Textural features of fabric image are extracted based on gray level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM). A sliding window technique is used for defect detection where window moves over the whole image computing a textural energy from the GLCM of the fabric image. The energy values are compared to a reference and the deviations beyond a threshold are reported as defects and also visually represented by a window. The implementation is carried out on a TI TMS320DM642 platform and programmed using code composer studio software. The real time output of this implementation was shown on a monitor. KeywordsFabric Defects, Texture, Grey Level Co-occurrence Matrix, DSP Kit, Energy Computation, Sliding Window, FDDS
Inter-observer reliability assessment of the Schatzker, AO/OTA and three-column classification of tibial plateau fractures

BACKGROUND
The purpose of our study was to evaluate inter-observer reliability of the Three-Column classifications with conventional Schatzker and AO/OTA of Tibial Plateau Fractures.


METHODS
50 cases involving all kinds of the fracture patterns were collected from 278 consecutive patients with tibial plateau fractures who were internal fixed in department of Orthopedics and Trauma III in Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital. The series were arranged randomly, numbered 1 to 50. Four observers were chosen to classify these cases. Before the research, a classification training session was held to each observer. They were given as much time as they required evaluating the radiographs accurately and independently. The classification choices made at the first viewing were not available during the second viewing. The observers were not provided with any feedback after the first viewing. The kappa statistic was used to analyze the inter-observer reliability of the three fracture classification made by the four observers.


RESULTS
The mean kappa values for inter-observer reliability regarding Schatzker classification was 0.567 (range: 0.513-0.589), representing "moderate agreement". The mean kappa values for inter-observer reliability regarding AO/ASIF classification systems was 0.623 (range: 0.510-0.710) representing "substantial agreement". The mean kappa values for inter-observer reliability regarding Three-Column classification systems was 0.766 (range: 0.706-0.890), representing "substantial agreement".


CONCLUSION
Three-Column classification, which is dependent on the understanding of the fractures using CT scans as well as the 3D reconstruction can identity the posterior column fracture or fragment. It showed "substantial agreement" in the assessment of inter-observer reliability, higher than the conventional Schatzker and AO/OTA classifications. We finally conclude that Three-Column classification provides a higher agreement among different surgeons and could be popularized and widely practiced in other clinical centers.
Finding Collisions in the Full SHA-1

In this paper, we present new collision search attacks on the hash function SHA-1. We show that collisions of SHA-1 can be found with complexity less than 2 hash operations. This is the first attack on the full 80-step SHA-1 with complexity less than the 2 theoretical bound.
Biological standardization and maximum tolerated dose estimation of an Alternaria alternata allergenic extract.

BACKGROUND
The manufacture of allergenic extracts from the mold Alternaria alternata is influenced by factors such as strain variability, allergenic origin, culturing conditions and extraction process, which affect the reproducibility of the preparations intended for diagnostic and therapeutic use.


OBJECTIVES
To select the most adequate antigenic source of A. alternata extracts and determine its maximum tolerated dose (MTD) to be used in a subsequent immunotherapy efficacy clinical trial.


METHODS
Twenty-one patients monosensitized to A. alternata were involved in a biological standardization process of A. alternata extracts. Four different mold strains were cultured and used to produce extracts by three different methods, each incorporating proteins from different origins: culture filtrate, buffer extractable fraction and cellular antigens. The selected extract, characterized as in-house reference (IHR) preparation was used in a MTD finding immunotherapy study. Serum IgE, IgG, IgG1 and IgG4 specific of complete extract and purified natural and recombinant forms of Alt a 1 were determined by different EIA methods.


RESULTS
Culture filtrate extract containing the allergens secreted to the spent medium was shown to be the most adequate option for establishing an IHR preparation for A. alternata extract manufacturing. A maximum dose of 1670 UBE, equivalent to 0.1 microg Alt a 1, was determined as MTD for immunotherapy. One year of administration of such a dose at monthly intervals elicited pronounced immunological changes with statistically significant decreases in IgE and increases in IgG4, both estimated with whole extract or purified Alt a 1.


CONCLUSION
A high quality natural A. alternata extract has been developed and preliminarily tested to define its MTD for subsequent determination of the optimal dose in an immunotherapy efficacy clinical trial.
Durable bonding to mechanically and/or chemically pre-treated dental zirconia.

OBJECTIVES
To evaluate the effect of mechanical and chemical surface pre-treatment on the bond durability of two composite cements to dental zirconia.


METHODS
Fully sintered IPS e.max ZirCAD (Ivoclar-Vivadent) blocks were either subjected to tribochemical silica sandblasting (CoJet, 3M ESPE) or not mechanically pre-treated. Next, the zirconia samples were either additionally pre-treated using one of two silane/MDP-combined ceramic primers (Clearfil Ceramic Primer, Kuraray; Monobond Plus, Ivoclar-Vivadent), or not further chemically pre-treated. Finally, two identically pre-treated zirconia blocks were bonded together using either a conventional BisGMA-based (Clearfil Esthetic Cement, Kuraray) or an MDP-based (Panavia F2.0, Kuraray) 'self-etch' dual-cure composite cement. The specimens were trimmed at the interface to a cylindrical hour-glass shape and stored for 7 days in distilled water (37°C), after which they were randomly exposed to one of three ageing protocols: (1) immersed in 37°C water for 10 days (10d); (2) subjected to 10,000 thermo-cycles (TC); or (3) immersed in 37°C water for 6 months (6m). After storage, the micro-tensile bond strength (μTBS) was determined in MPa (n=15-21/group). Fractographic analysis was performed using SEM.


RESULTS
Weibull analysis revealed the highest Weibull scale and shape parameters for the 'CoJet/Clearfil Ceramic Primer/Panavia F2.0/10d' combination. While the BisGMA-based composite cement Clearfil Esthetic Cement (Kuraray) bonded equally well to zirconia using either tribochemical silica sandblasting (CoJet, 3M ESPE) or not, sandblasting appeared indispensable for the MDP-based and more hydrophilic composite cement Panavia F2.0 (Kuraray).


CONCLUSIONS
Combined mechanical and chemical pre-treatment can best be recommended to durably bond to zirconia.


CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
As a standard procedure to durable bond zirconia to tooth tissue, both mechanical (tribochemical silica coating) and chemical (silane/MDP-combined ceramic primers) is clinically highly recommended.
Acinetobacter baumannii in Human Body Louse

While we were isolating Bartonella quintana from body lice, 40 Acinetobacter baumannii strains were also isolated and genotyped. One clone was unique and the other was ampicillin susceptible. A. baumannii DNA was later detected in 21% of 622 lice collected worldwide. These findings show an A. baumannii epidemic in human body lice.
Food preference questionnaire as a screening tool for assessing dietary risk of cardiovascular disease within health risk appraisals.

OBJECTIVE
Nutrition components of health risk appraisals (HRAs) aim to rapidly and accurately assess dietary behaviors that increase disease risk. Because cognitive research suggests that recalling food likes/dislikes may be simpler and more accurate than recalling intake, we tested whether a preference measure was predictive of cardiovascular disease risk factors within an HRA.


METHODS
HRA participants (422 primarily non-Hispanic white men, mean age 46+/-10 years) from a manufacturing company completed surveys to assess fat and sweet food/beverage preference; frequency of consuming fat and sweet foods/beverages, alcoholic beverages, fiber-rich foods (whole grains, fruits, and vegetables); and physical activity. Per measured risk factors, 34% had central obesity (waist circumference>or=102 cm), 32% had hypertension (>or=140 and/or>or=90 mm Hg), 52% had prehypertension (>or=120 to 139 and/or>or=80 to 89 mm Hg), and 52% had an elevated total cholesterol level (>or=200 mg/dL [5.2 mmol/L]).


STATISTICAL ANALYSES
Multiple linear regression models explaining variability in waist circumference, blood pressure, and serum lipids were tested.


RESULTS
Although preference and intake pairs for fat and sweets were significantly correlated, intake of fat and sweets failed to associate significantly with any risk factor. Significant variance in waist circumference was explained by age, fat preference, fiber intake, and physical activity. Those with greater circumferences liked fat more, consumed less fiber, and exercised less. Waist circumference in turn contributed significantly to models predicting serum lipid levels and blood pressure. Alcohol intake explained variability in serum lipid levels-higher intakes were associated with higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. The models predicting risk were generally more explanatory in younger (<50 years) than in older men.


CONCLUSIONS
Including a preference measure within an HRA appears to enhance cardiovascular disease risk factor assessment. Fat preference, intake of fiber-rich foods, and alcohol proved the best dietary determinants of cardiovascular disease risk factors.
Diet, physical, and biochemical characteristics of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes: relationship between dietary fat and glucose control.

BACKGROUND
Nutritional habits may significantly influence glycemic control and cardiovascular risk factors in youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D).


AIMS
To assess dietary intake, cardiovascular risk factors, and the association between diet composition and glycemic control in Italian youth with T1D.


METHODS
Subjects included 114 youth aged 6-16 yr with T1D receiving a routine treatment program with nutrition counseling and 448 controls. Cross-sectional measures included dietary intake, anthropometry, blood pressure, lipid profile, and, in children with diabetes, HbA1c.


RESULTS
In prepubertal children, BMI, subcutaneous skinfolds, the prevalence of overweight/obesity, and LDL cholesterol (LDL-CH) were significantly lower in patients than in controls, whereas HDL cholesterol (HDL-CH) was higher. Pubertal boys with T1D did not differ significantly from controls in either anthropometry or lipid profile. Pubertal girls with T1D had a higher BMI and higher triceps skinfolds than controls but not significantly different prevalence of overweight/obesity or lipid profile. Compared to controls, participants with T1D had a lower intake of lipids and simple carbohydrates, a higher ratio of unsaturated/saturated fats and fibre, and a dietary intake closer to the National Reference Dietary Intakes (RDIs). The odds of having an HbA1c higher than 7.5, adjusted for BMI, lipid, and fibre intake, increases by 53% for every 1% increase of energy intake from saturated fat in the diet and by 30% for every year of duration of diabetes.


CONCLUSIONS
Youth with T1D having regular nutritional counseling had a diet closer to RDIs than controls and not different cardiovascular risk factors. High saturated fatty acid intake was associated with poor blood glucose control.
Scientific Reasoning and Argumentation: Advancing an Interdisciplinary Research Agenda in Education

Scientific reasoning and scientific argumentation are highly valued outcomes of K-12 and higher education. In this article, we first review main topics and key findings of three different strands of research, namely research on the development of scientific reasoning, research on scientific argumentation, and research on approaches to support scientific reasoning and argumentation. Building on these findings, we outline current research deficits and address five aspects that exemplify where and how research on scientific reasoning and argumentation needs to be expanded. In particular, we suggest to ground future research in a conceptual framework with three epistemic modes (advancing theory building about natural and social phenomena, artefact-centred scientific reasoning, and science-based reasoning in practice) and eight epistemic activities (problem identification, questioning, hypothesis generation, construction and redesign of artefacts, evidence