Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Slower gait, slower information processing and smaller prefrontal area in older adults.

BACKGROUND Slower gait in older adults is related to smaller volume of the prefrontal area (PFAv). The pathways underlying this association have not yet been explored. Understanding slowing gait could help improve function in older age. We examine whether the association between smaller PFAv and slower gait is explained by lower performance on numerous neuropsychological tests. HYPOTHESIS We hypothesise that slower information processing explains this association, while tests of language or memory will not. METHODS Data on brain imaging, neuropsychological tests (information processing speed, visuospatial attention, memory, language, mood) and time to walk 15 feet were obtained in 214 adults (73.3 years, 62% women) free from stroke and dementia. Covariates included central (white matter hyperintensities, vision) and peripheral contributors of gait (vibration sense, muscle strength, arthritis, body mass index), demographics (age, race, gender, education), as well as markers of prevalent vascular diseases (cardiovascular disease, diabetes and ankle arm index). RESULTS In linear regression models, smaller PFAv was associated with slower time to walk independent of covariates. This association was no longer significant after adding information processing speed to the model. None of the other neuropsychological tests significantly attenuated this association. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that smaller PFAv may contribute to slower gait through slower information processing. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to examine the casual relationship between focal brain atrophy with slowing in information processing and gait.
The Three-Dimensional Mass Distribution in NGC 1700

A variety of modeling techniques is used with surface photometry from the literature and recently acquired high-accuracy stellar kinematic data to constrain the three-dimensional mass distribution in the luminous cuspy elliptical galaxy NGC 1700. First, we model the radial velocity field and photometry and, using a Bayesian technique, estimate the triaxiality T and short-to-long axis ratio c in five concentric annuli between approximately 1 and 3 effective radii. The results are completely consistent with T being constant inside about 2.5re (36″; 6.7 h-1 kpc). Adding an assumption of constant T as prior information gives an upper limit of T < 0.16 (95% confidence); this relaxes to T < 0.22 if it is also assumed that there is perfect alignment between the angular momentum and the galaxy's intrinsic short axis. Near axisymmetry permits us then to use axisymmetric models to constrain the radial mass profile. Using the Jeans (moment) equations, we demonstrate that two-integral, constant-M/L models cannot fit the data; but a two-integral model in which the cumulative enclosed M/L increases by a factor of ∼2 from the center out to 12 h-1 kpc can. Three-integral models constructed by quadratic programming show that, in fact, no constant-M/L model is consistent with the kinematics. Anisotropic three-integral models with variable M/L, while not uniquely establishing a minimum acceptable halo mass, imply, as do the moment models, a cumulative M/LB ≈ 10 h at 12 h-1 kpc. We conclude that NGC 1700 represents the best stellar dynamical evidence to date for dark matter in elliptical galaxies.
RURAL EXPRESSWAY INTERSECTION SYNTHESIS OF PRACTICE AND CRASH ANALYSIS

This report presents a national synthesis of rural expressway, two-way stop -controlled (TWSC) intersection safety strategies and intersection designs and an analysis of Iowa expressway TWSC intersection crash characteristics. A rural expressway is a multi-lane highway with a divided median and with mostly at -grade intersections, although some intersections may be grade separated. The synthesis of intersection strategies is conducted in two parts. The first is a literature review and the second part is a national survey of strategies currently being applied by state transportation agencies. The characterization of crash patterns at TWSC expressway intersections is examined through the analysis of 5 years of crash data at 644 intersections.
Pollen Spectrum of Gonen (Balikesir) Atmosphere

Bu calismada Gonen-Balikesir atmosferinde gorulen yillik polen miktar ve degisimi gravimetrik metod kullanilarak arastirilmistir. Toplam 38 takson ve tanimlanamayan polenler kaydedilmistir ve bunlardan 22 tanesi odunsu bitkilere (AP), 16 tanesi otsu bitkilere (NAP) aittir. Ornekleme suresi boyunca cm 2 ’de 4916 polen kaydedilmis olup, bunlarin %73,13’u odunsu bitkilere, %26,12’si otsu bitkilere %0,75’i ise tanimlanamayan polenlere aittir. Ornekleme sahasi atmosferindeki dominant taksonlar; Pinus (%19,08), Poaceae (%16,94), Cupressaceae/Taxaceae (%10,50), Quercus (%9,62), Juglans (%9,52), Olea europaea (%8,58), Platanus (%6,20), Amaranthaceae (%3,32), Asteraceae (%2,71), Alnus (%1,59), Acer (%1,14) ve Morus (%1.14) olup; literaturde tum dominant polen tiplerinin allerjik oldugu rapor edilmistir. Calisma suresinde polen miktari Mayis ayinda en yuksek seviyede gorulmustur.
Association of FTO, LEPR and MTHFR gene polymorphisms with metabolic syndrome in schizophrenia patients receiving antipsychotics.

AIM The occurrence of metabolic syndrome (MS) in schizophrenia patients receiving long-term antipsychotics (APs) contributes to their high mortality rate. We aimed to determine whether genetic polymorphisms of identified candidate genes are associated with MS in our study population. MATERIALS & METHODS We recruited 206 schizophrenia patients receiving AP treatment for at least a year. Cross-sectional measurements of weight, height, blood pressure, waist and hip circumference, and other lipid profiles were recorded. Patient DNA was genotyped for 16 candidate gene polymorphisms. RESULTS Of these patients, 59.7% were found to have MS while 40.3% did not. All metabolic parameters were significantly different between the two groups. Only three of the 16 polymorphisms studied showed significant association with MS; rs9939609 of the FTO gene confers risk for MS (odds ratio [OR]: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.07-2.78, p = 0.026), while rs1137101 of the LEPR gene (OR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.28-0.80, p = 0.005) and rs1801133 of the MTHFR gene (OR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.35-0.99, p = 0.049) are protective against MS. CONCLUSION Polymorphisms of the FTO, LEPR and MTHFR genes may play a role in MS in Malaysian schizophrenia patients receiving long-term treatment with APs.
Personae and phonetic detail in sociolinguistic signs

Abstract Social meaning-based approaches to linguistic variation treat variation as a semiotic system, in which sociolinguistic signs—indexical links between linguistic forms and social meanings—serve as interactional resources that individuals use to project personae. This article explores the perceptual nature of the links between social personae and linguistic forms, examining how information about a speaker's persona can influence a listener's linguistic perceptions of a continuous phonetic feature. Using a phoneme categorization task, this study examines associations between gradient phonetic manifestations on a continuum from /æ/ to /ɑ/ and three social personae. Findings illustrate that the social persona made relevant for a listener influences the ways in which points on this phonetic continuum are categorized phonemically as either trap or lot. Overall, this shows that the social constructs of personae influence phonetically detailed perceptions of linguistic material. (Sociolinguistic perception, personae, indexicality, sociophonetics, sociolinguistic signs)*
Using bit recycling to reduce Knuth's balanced codes redundancy

Donald Knuth published an efficient algorithm for constructing a code with balanced codewords. A balanced codeword is a codeword that contains an equal number of zero's and one's. The redundancy of the codes built using Knuth's algorithm is about twice the lower bound on redundancy. In this paper we propose a new scheme based on the bit recycling compression technique to reduce Knuth's algorithm redundancy. The proposed scheme does not affect the simplicity of Knuth's algorithm and achieves less redundancy. Theoretical results and an analysis of our scheme are presented as well.
Support Vector Machines for Parse Selection

This thesis presents the results of my project on Support Vec or Machines for parse selection. The goal of the project was twofold. Firstly, I ap plied Support Vector Machines to the Natural Language Processing task of parse sele ction, achieving results that are competitive with previous work. Secondly, I tried t o determine why certain kernels perform better than others at this task. I found that t e Gaussian kernel performs best (47.1% exact match) because it can find a regressio n for the data by mapping them into an infinite-dimensional space. The polynomia l kernel performs almost as well (40.3%) but has a very long training time, and the Sigm oid kernel performs worst (21.11%), because it judges all data points to be almos t identical.
From PD to Nonlinear Adaptive Depth-Control of a Tethered Autonomous Underwater Vehicle

This paper deals with an experimental comparison between a proportional derivative (PD) controller and an adaptive nonlinear state feedback one, both applied on a tethered autonomous underwater vehicle. The aim is to show the behavior of the closed loop system in the nominal case for each of these two controllers, and then to test their robustness towards some parameters changes. The PD on one hand has a good performance for systems with an unknown model. The adaptive control law on the other hand is known to adjust the unknown parameters of the plant in order to converge to the desired trajectory. This study shows experimental results performed using each of the above mentioned control laws.
Awareness and attitudes of local people toward wildlife conservation in the Rungwa Game Reserve in Central Tanzania

ABSTRACT Studies have demonstrated that wildlife conservation success depends on local people’s attitudes toward wildlife. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 240 respondents living in five villages outside the south-western Rungwa Game Reserve (RGR). Results revealed 89% of the respondents were aware of wildlife conservation, and their awareness varied with age, education, immigration status, and distance to the protected area (PA). Factors influencing the attitude of local people toward wildlife in the area included age, distance to the PA, education level, and sources of income. Depredation and crop damage negatively influenced people’s attitudes toward problem animals. For effective conservation, the attitudes of local people toward wildlife need to be considered. This conservation will be achieved through timely compensation schemes, the involvement of the local people in conservation planning, and the provision of education programs about sustainable conservation.
Xylem Flow Rate Differences Are Associated with Genetic Variation in Snap Bean Pod Calcium Concentration

Two commercial snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars (Hystyle and Labrador) that differ in pod Ca concentration were grown aeroponically to assess physiological factors associated with these differences. Xylem flow rate, Ca absorbed, and Ca concentration in sieve sap and pods (all and commercial size no. 4) were measured. Flow rate, Ca absorption and pod Ca concentration, but not sap Ca concentration, differed between cultivars, and this suggests that genetic variability in pod Ca concentration is caused mainly by differences in flow rate, rather than differences in sap Ca concentration. 'Hystyle' showed 1.6 times greater flow rate, 1.5 times greater pod Ca concentration, and 1.7 times greater Ca absorbed than 'Labrador'. Flow rate correlated positively with Ca absorbed ( R = 0.90), Ca concentration in pods of size no. 4 (R = 0.55), and total pods (R = 0.65). Plant maturity influenced sap Ca concentration and Ca translocated increased as plant matured. These results provide evidence that flow rate differences may cause variability for pod Ca concentration in snap beans.
Defining Pathways for Development of Disease-Modifying Therapies in Children With Type 1 Diabetes: A Consensus Report

Emerging data suggest that type 1 diabetes is a more aggressive disease in children than in adults, with important differences in pathophysiology and clinical course. Therefore, the efficacy of disease-modifying therapies may be different in the two populations. Understanding the developmental and regulatory pathways for type 1 diabetes–modifying therapies in children will enable industry, academia, funders, advocacy groups, and regulators to translate new science to clinical care. This consensus report characterizes the fundamental differences in type 1 diabetes between children and adults and proposes a thoughtful approach to better understand the development and regulatory pathways for type 1 diabetes therapies.
EMOTIONAL REACTIONS OF STUDENTS IN FIELD EDUCATION: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY

An exploratory study using qualitative methodology was undertaken with recent MSW graduates (N=12) from 2 graduate social work programs to identify and describe the students' emotional reactions to experiences in field education. Significant and interrelated themes emerged including the subjective and unique definitions of emotionally charged events; the considerable effect of the student–field instructor relationship and the organizational environment, whereby both act as major risk and major protective factors; and participants seeking help from sources in their family and social networks and not necessarily from those in formal social work education roles. Implications for field education are provided.
Long-Term and Short-Term Period and Amplitude Perturbation Measurents: Are They all Needed?

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship among the various forms of amplitude and period perturbation. Long-term and short-term period and amplitude perturbation measures were obtained using a sustained vowel produced by normal speakers. Short-term measures of period and amplitude perturbation were highly correlated with one another in both men and women. Long-term measures of period perturbation were highly correlated among men, but moderately correlated for smooth pitch period perturbation quotient, and not correlated for fundamental frequency variation, among women. In both males and females, long-term amplitude perturbation measures were moderately correlated. As a result, only one short-term and one long-term measure of period and amplitude perturbation may be necessary for clinical judgments.
Explorative and Exploitative Learning from External Corporate Ventures

This study examines the antecedents of explorative and exploitative learning of technological knowledge from external corporate ventures. We compare different forms of external corporate venturing, namely corporate venture capital investments, alliances, joint ventures, and acquisitions, as alternative avenues for interorganizational learning. Furthermore, we test the effects of multiple relational characteristics on the type of learning outcomes. Our empirical analysis is based on citations in patents filed by a sample of 110 largest U.S. public information and communications technology companies during the years 1992–2000. We find that corporate venturing mode and technological relatedness have significant effects on the likelihood of explorative learning.
Titin gene mutations are common in families with both peripartum cardiomyopathy and dilated cardiomyopathy.

AIM Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) can be an initial manifestation of familial dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). We aimed to identify mutations in families that could underlie their PPCM and DCM. METHODS AND RESULTS We collected 18 families with PPCM and DCM cases from various countries. We studied the clinical characteristics of the PPCM patients and affected relatives, and applied a targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) approach to detect mutations in 48 genes known to be involved in inherited cardiomyopathies. We identified 4 pathogenic mutations in 4 of 18 families (22%): 3 in TTN and 1 in BAG3. In addition, we identified 6 variants of unknown clinical significance that may be pathogenic in 6 other families (33%): 4 in TTN, 1 in TNNC1, and 1 in MYH7. Measurements of passive force in single cardiomyocytes and titin isoform composition potentially support an upgrade of one of the variants of unknown clinical significance in TTN to a pathogenic mutation. Only 2 of 20 PPCM cases in these families showed the recovery of left ventricular function. CONCLUSION Targeted NGS shows that potentially causal mutations in cardiomyopathy-related genes are common in families with both PPCM and DCM. This supports the earlier finding that PPCM can be part of familial DCM. Our cohort is particularly characterized by a high proportion of TTN mutations and a low recovery rate in PPCM cases.
Center for Policy Research Working Paper No . 21 TAX REFORM AND AUTOMATIC STABILIZATION

A fundamental property of a progressive income tax is that it provides implicit insurance against shocks to income by dampening the variability of disposable income and consumption. The Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981 (ERTA) in combination with the Tax Reform Act of 1986 (TRA86) greatly reduced the number of marginal tax brackets and the maximum marginal rate, which limits the stabilizing effect of the tax system on household consumption when pre-tax income fluctuates. We examine the effect of the federal income tax reforms of the 1980s on the associated degree of automatic stabilization of consumption. The empirical framework derives from the consumption insurance literature, where the ideal outcome is spatially equal changes in households’ marginal utilities of consumption, and permits partial insurance, which we use to identify how the degree of consumption insurance has changed since ERTA and TRA86. Our data come from interview years 1980–1991 in the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. We find that in certain cases the tax reforms of the 1980s actually increased the automatic stabilization inherent in the United States income tax. Overall, ERTA and TRA86 reduced consumption stability by about 50 percent. More recent tax reforms, most notably increased EITC generosity, have restored or enhanced consumption insurance. A welfare analysis indicates that the cost of moving to the post-TRA86 system is sizable for relatively risk averse households facing large income risk, but is much more modest for the typical household.
Creative Generation of 3D Objects with Deep Learning and Innovation Engines

Advances in supervised learning with deep neural networks have enabled robust classiﬁcation in many real world domains. An interesting question is if such advances can also be leveraged effectively for computational creativity . One insight is that because evolutionary algorithms are free from strict requirements of mathematical smoothness, they can exploit powerful deep learning representations through arbitrary computational pipelines. In this way, deep networks trained on typical supervised tasks can be used as an ingredient in an evolutionary algorithm driven towards creativity. To highlight such potential, this paper creates novel 3D objects by leveraging feedback from a deep network trained only to recognize 2D images. This idea is tested by extending previous work with Innovation Engines , i.e. a principled combination of deep learning and evolutionary algorithms for computational creativity. The results of this automated process are interesting and recognizable 3D-printable objects, demonstrating the creative potential for combining evolutionary computation and deep learning in this way.
Modeling the influence of TH1- and TH2-type cells in autoimmune diseases.

A sharp TH1/TH2 dichotomy has often been used to define the effects of cytokines on autoimmune diseases. However contradictory results in recent research indicate that the situation may be more complex. Here, we build a simple mathematical model aimed at settling the contradictions. The model is applied using Ordinary Differential Equations (ODE). We show here that a TH1/TH2 paradigm is only an external view of a complex multivariate system.
Bayesian Approaches to Modeling the Conditional Dependence Between Multiple Diagnostic Tests

Summary. Many analyses of results from multiple diagnostic tests assume the tests are statistically independent conditional on the true disease status of the subject. This assumption may be violated in practice, especially in situations where none of the tests is a perfectly accurate gold standard. Classical inference for models accounting for the conditional dependence between tests requires that results from at least four different tests be used in order to obtain an identifiable solution, but it is not always feasible to have results from this many tests. We use a Bayesian approach to draw inferences about the disease prevalence and test properties while adjusting for the possibility of conditional dependence between tests, particularly when we have only two tests. We propose both fixed and random effects models. Since with fewer than four tests the problem is nonidentifiable, the posterior distributions are strongly dependent on the prior information about the test properties and the disease prevalence, even with large sample sizes. If the degree of correlation between the tests is known a priori with high precision, then our methods adjust for the dependence between the tests. Otherwise, our methods provide adjusted inferences that incorporate all of the uncertainty inherent in the problem, typically resulting in wider interval estimates. We illustrate our methods using data from a study on the prevalence of Strongyloides infection among Cambodian refugees to Canada.
Analysis of Proprioceptive Sensory Innervation of the Mouse Soleus: A Whole-Mount Muscle Approach

Muscle proprioceptive afferents provide feedback critical for successful execution of motor tasks via specialized mechanoreceptors housed within skeletal muscles: muscle spindles, supplied by group Ia and group II afferents, and Golgi tendon organs, supplied by group Ib afferents. The morphology of these proprioceptors and their associated afferents has been studied extensively in the cat soleus, and to a lesser degree, in the rat; however, quantitative analyses of proprioceptive innervation in the mouse soleus are comparatively limited. The present study employed genetically-encoded fluorescent reporting systems to label and analyze muscle spindles, Golgi tendon organs, and the proprioceptive sensory neuron subpopulations supplying them within the intact mouse soleus muscle using high magnification confocal microscopy. Total proprioceptive receptors numbered 11.3 ± 0.4 and 5.2 ± 0.2 for muscle spindles and Golgi tendon organs, respectively, and these receptor counts varied independently (n = 27 muscles). Analogous to findings in the rat, muscle spindles analyzed were most frequently supplied by two proprioceptive afferents, and in the majority of instances, both were classified as primary endings using established morphological criteria. Secondary endings were most frequently observed when spindle associated afferents totaled three or more. The mean diameter of primary and secondary afferent axons differed significantly, but the distributions overlap more than previously observed in cat and rat studies.