Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Cardiometabolic Risk Markers in Indian Children: Comparison with UK Indian and White European Children

Objective UK Indian adults have higher risks of coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes than Indian and UK European adults. With growing evidence that these diseases originate in early life, we compared cardiometabolic risk markers in Indian, UK Indian and white European children. Methods Comparisons were based on the Mysore Parthenon Birth Cohort Study (MPBCS), India and the Child Heart Health Study in England (CHASE), which studied 9–10 year-old children (538 Indian, 483 UK Indian, 1375 white European) using similar methods. Analyses adjusted for study differences in age and sex. Results Compared with Mysore Indians, UK Indians had markedly higher BMI (% difference 21%, 95%CI 18 to 24%), skinfold thickness (% difference 34%, 95%CI 26 to 42%), LDL-cholesterol (mean difference 0.48, 95%CI 0.38 to 0.57 mmol/L), systolic BP (mean difference 10.3, 95% CI 8.9 to 11.8 mmHg) and fasting insulin (% difference 145%, 95%CI 124 to 168%). These differences (similar in both sexes and little affected by adiposity adjustment) were larger than those between UK Indians and white Europeans. Compared with white Europeans, UK Indians had higher skinfold thickness (% difference 6.0%, 95%CI 1.5 to 10.7%), fasting insulin (% difference 31%, 95%CI 22 to 40%), triglyceride (% difference 13%, 95%CI 8 to 18%) and LDL-cholesterol (mean difference 0.12 mmol/L, 95%CI 0.04 to 0.19 mmol/L). Conclusions UK Indian children have an adverse cardiometabolic risk profile, especially compared to Indian children. These differences, not simply reflecting greater adiposity, emphasize the need for prevention strategies starting in childhood or earlier.
Stochastic Amplification of Fluctuations in Cortical Up-States

Cortical neurons are bistable; as a consequence their local field potentials can fluctuate between quiescent and active states, generating slow Hz oscillations which are widely known as transitions between Up and Down States. Despite a large number of studies on Up-Down transitions, deciphering its nature, mechanisms and function are still today challenging tasks. In this paper we focus on recent experimental evidence, showing that a class of spontaneous oscillations can emerge within the Up states. In particular, a non-trivial peak around Hz appears in their associated power-spectra, what produces an enhancement of the activity power for higher frequencies (in the Hz band). Moreover, this rhythm within Ups seems to be an emergent or collective phenomenon given that individual neurons do not lock to it as they remain mostly unsynchronized. Remarkably, similar oscillations (and the concomitant peak in the spectrum) do not appear in the Down states. Here we shed light on these findings by using different computational models for the dynamics of cortical networks in presence of different levels of physiological complexity. Our conclusion, supported by both theory and simulations, is that the collective phenomenon of “stochastic amplification of fluctuations” – previously described in other contexts such as Ecology and Epidemiology – explains in an elegant and parsimonious manner, beyond model-dependent details, this extra-rhythm emerging only in the Up states but not in the Downs.
Reduced-Complexity Equalization for Faster-Than-Nyquist Signaling: New Methods Based on Ungerboeck Observation Model

In this paper, we consider the detection of faster-than-Nyquist (FTN) signaling. By noticing that the whitening filter for FTN signaling cannot be directly derived when the symbol rate exceeds the signal bandwidth, we propose a new reduced-complexity M-algorithm BCJR (M-BCJR) algorithm based on the Ungerboeck observation model. By taking some “future” symbols into account, the proposed algorithm is able to select the <inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$M$ </tex-math></inline-formula> best states in the maximum <italic>a posteriori</italic> sense. We further simplify the above algorithm by choosing the key path from each possible state, which successfully reduces the complexity while maintaining a good bit error rate performance. Simulation results show that, with the use of the proposed methods, great gains can be obtained in terms of spectral efficiency (up to 186%) or signal-to-noise ratio (up to 4.5 dB) compared with the Nyquist signaling.
A transition of interface characteristics in LDPE/Al2O3 nanocomposites by permittivity simulation

This paper reveals an interface transition characteristics in LDPE/Al2O3 nanocomposites. A nonlinear variation of dielectric permittivity in nanocomposites is closely related to the interface characteristics, such as the effective thickness, the volume fraction, and the relative permittivity. The interface with a low relative permittivity is defined as a phase between nanoparticle and polymer matrix. After that, the effective permittivities of the nanocomposites are calculated by the three-phase models. The linear model which considers the interface volume by Monte Carlo calculation indicated a significant increase of interface volume fraction at low loadings, which decreased the permittivity. However, it failed to fit the permittivity at high loadings. The interface power law (IPL) model considering the interface overlap and the shape and orientation of particle is difficult to fit the measured data, particularly at low loadings. It seems that neither of the models can well fit the measured data. However, through comparison of the two models, the permittivity behaviors in low and high loading regions can be understood. The improved model with power law relation is likely useful for explaining the reduced permittivity at low loadings, while a revised IPL model could locally agree with the increased permittivity at high loadings. In light of the comparisons, it can be inferred that the reduction of εr at low loadings is ascribed to the large interface volume (low permittivity), and the enhancement of εr at high loadings is caused by the nanoparticles. A transition of interface characteristics is summarized, which is responsible for the change of dielectric properties.
What Does Carotenoid-Dependent Coloration Tell? Plasma Carotenoid Level Signals Immunocompetence and Oxidative Stress State in Birds–A Meta-Analysis

Abstract Mechanisms maintaining honesty of sexual signals are far from resolved, limiting our understanding of sexual selection and potential important parts of physiology. Carotenoid pigmented visual signals are among the most extensively studied sexual displays, but evidence regarding hypotheses on how carotenoids ensure signal honesty is mixed. Using a phylogenetically controlled meta-analysis of 357 effect sizes across 88 different species of birds, we tested two prominent hypotheses in the field: that carotenoid-dependent coloration signals i) immunocompetence and/or ii) oxidative stress state. Separate meta-analyses were performed for the relationships of trait coloration and circulating carotenoid level with different measures of immunocompetence and oxidative stress state. For immunocompetence we find that carotenoid levels (r = 0.20) and trait color intensity (r = 0.17) are significantly positively related to PHA response. Additionally we find that carotenoids are significantly positively related to antioxidant capacity (r = 0.10), but not significantly related to oxidative damage (r = −0.02). Thus our analyses provide support for both hypotheses, in that at least for some aspects of immunity and oxidative stress state the predicted correlations were found. Furthermore, we tested for differences in effect size between experimental and observational studies; a larger effect in observational studies would indicate that co-variation might not be causal. However, we detected no significant difference, suggesting that the relationships we found are causal. The overall effect sizes we report are modest and we discuss potential factors contributing to this, including differences between species. We suggest complementary mechanisms maintaining honesty rather than the involvement of carotenoids in immune function and oxidative stress and suggest experiments on how to test these.
Structure and properties of partially cyclized polyacrylonitrile‐based carbon fiber—precursor fiber prepared by melt‐spun with ionic liquid as the medium of processing

Carbon fiber has many excellent properties. Currently, the precursor fiber of polyacrylonitrile (PAN)-based carbon fiber is made from solution by wet or dry spinning process that requires expensive solvents and costly solvent recovery. To solve this problem, we developed a melt-spun process with ionic liquid as the medium of processing. The melt-spun precursor fiber exhibited partially cyclized structure. The structure and properties of the melt-spun PAN precursor fiber were analyzed by combination of scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry, ultraviolet spectroscopy, flotation technique, sound velocity orientation test, linear density, and tensile strength tests. The results showed that the tensile strength of melt-spun PAN precursor fiber was fairly high reached up to 7.0 cN/dtex. The reason was the low imperfect morphology and a cyclized structure formed by in situ chemical reaction during melt-spun process. Due to the existence of partially cyclized structure in the melt-spun PAN precursor fiber, exothermic process was mitigated and the heat evolved decreased during thermal stabilization stage in comparison with commercial precursor fibers produced by solution-spun, which could shorten the residence time of thermal stabilization and reduce the cost of final carbon fiber. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:2722–2728, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Nutritional "Omics" Technologies for Elucidating the Role(s) of Bioactive Food Components in Colon Cancer Prevention

The inheritance of information based on gene expression levels is known as epigenetics, as opposed to genetics, which refers to information transmitted on the basis of gene sequence. In contrast to genetic changes observed in cancer, epigenetic changes are gradual in onset and are progressive, their effects are dose-dependent and are potentially reversible. These observations present new opportunities in cancer-risk modification and prevention using dietary and lifestyle factors and potential chemopreventive drugs. In this regard, folate, a water-soluble B vitamin, has been a focus of intense interest because of an inverse association between folate status and the risk of several malignancies (in particular, colorectal cancer) and of its potential ability to modulate DNA methylation. DNA methylation is an important epigenetic determinant in gene expression, in the maintenance of DNA integrity and stability, in chromosomal modifications, and in the development of mutations. Aberrant patterns and dysregulation of DNA methylation are mechanistically related to colorectal carcinogenesis. Folate plays an essential role in one-carbon transfer involving remethylation of homocysteine to methionine, thereby ensuring the provision of S-adenosylmethionine, the primary methyl group donor for most biological methylation reactions. The portfolio of evidence from animal, human, and in vitro studies suggests that the effects of folate deficiency and supplementation on DNA methylation are gene and site specific, and appear to depend on cell type, target organ, stage of transformation, and the degree and duration of folate depletion. J. Nutr. 135: 2703-2709, 2005.
Relationship between the membranous septum and the virtual basal ring of the aortic root in candidates for transcatheter implantation of the aortic valve

Knowledge of the anatomy of the membranous septum, as a surrogate to the location of the atrioventricular conduction axis, is a prerequisite for those undertaking transcatheter implantation of the aortic valve (TAVI). Equally important is its relationship of the virtual basal ring. This feature, however, has yet to be adequately described in the living heart. We analyzed computed tomographic angiographic datasets from 107 candidates (84.1 ± 5.2 years, 68% women) for TAVI. Using multiplanar reconstructions, we measured the height and width of the membranous septum, and the distances of its superior and inferior margins from the virtual basal ring plane. We also assessed the extent of wedging of the aortic root between the mitral valve and the ventricular septum. Mean heights and widths of the membranous septum were 6.6 ± 2.0, and 10.2 ± 3.1 mm, respectively, with its size significantly associated with that of the aortic root (P < 0.05). Its superior and inferior margins were 4.5 ± 2.3 and 2.1 ± 2.1 mm, respectively, from the plane of the basal ring. The inferior distance, the surrogate for the adjacency of the atrioventricular conduction axis, was ≤ 5mm in 91% of the patients. Deeper wedging of the aortic root was independently correlated with a shorter inferior distance (β = 0.0569, P = 0.0258). The membranous septum is appreciably closer to the virtual basal ring than previously appreciated. These findings impact on estimations of the risk of damage to the atrioventricular conduction axis during TAVI. Clin. Anat. 31:525–534, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetic Diversity of Drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Isolates in Isfahan Province of Iran

Background: Increasing drug resistance is an important factor in the complexity of tuberculosis (TB) control. The identification of disease transmission type, recurrence of a previous infection, or new transmission of the disease is the key factor in the control of TB. In this study, we aimed to identify the genetic diversity of drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates in Isfahan province of Iran through the mycobacterial interspersed repetitive unit-variable number tandem repeat (MIRU-VNTR) typing method based on 24 loci. Materials and Methods: Of 300 isolates obtained from a variety of clinical specimens, 18 drug-resistance M. tuberculosis clinical isolates (resistant to a single drug to more than one drug) were collected between 2013 and 2015 from regional TB reference laboratory in Isfahan. All drug-resistance M. tuberculosis isolates were typed by 24-locus MIRU-VNTR typing. Results: The highest percentage of isolates, 38.8%, belonged to the East-Asian lineage (lineage 2), while the lineages Indo-Oceanic (lineage 1), East-African–Indian (lineage 3), and Euro-American (lineage 4) represented 5.5%, 22.2%, and 33.3%, respectively. Among the 33.3% (6/18) Euro-American strains, the Latin American– Mediterranean and Ural sub-lineage were 22.2% (4/18) and 11.1% (2/18), respectively. Conclusion: The results of this study show that the lineages of drug-resistant M. tuberculosis isolates in Isfahan province of Iran are similar to those reported in the Eastern Mediterranean region (indicative of the epidemiological relationship between the countries in the region). Continued molecular monitoring is important as it has been proposed that the genetics and evolutionary backgrounds of drug-resistant M. tuberculosis strains may have an impact on the transmissibility profile.
Bearing Strength Capacity of Continuous Supported Timber Beams: Unified Approach for Test Methods and Structural Design Codes

Bearing or compressive-strength capacity perpendicular to the grain of timber beams is a troublesome issue. Not only do many different load cases occur in practice that are not covered by structural timber design codes, but also these codes provide only a basic provision and vary throughout continents. Code design rules require the standardized compressive or bearing strength to be determined by test standards. An assessment of the results of standard test methods of the European Union, North America, and Australia/New Zealand shows incompatibility. It is demonstrated how previously incompatible results can be made compatible by using a physical model and some calibration tests. The proposed model offers a consistent and simple way to bridge the differences between both test standards and structural design codes.
Altitudinal Variation in Leaf Nitrogen Concentration on the Eastern Slope of Mount Gongga on the Tibetan Plateau, China

Mount Gongga spans 6500 m in elevation and has intact and continuous vertical vegetation belts, ranging from subtropical evergreen broad-leaved vegetation to an alpine frigid sparse grass and desert zone. Investigating the altitudinal trends in leaf nitrogen (N) on Mount Gongga can increase our understanding of the global biogeography of foliar N. In this study, 460 leaf samples from mosses, ferns, and seed plants were collected along an altitudinal gradient on the eastern slope of Mount Gongga, and the variation in leaf N concentration (mass basis) with elevation was analyzed. There are considerable differences in leaf N between mosses and ferns, mosses and seed plants, C4 and C3 plants, and evergreen and deciduous woody plants. The general altitudial pattern of leaf N in Mount Gongga plants was that leaf N kept increasing until an elevation of about 2200 m above sea level, with a corresponding mean annual temperature (MAT) of 8.5°C, and then decreased with increasing elevation. However, the evergreen woody plants displayed a decline trend in leaf N across the altitude gradient. Our findings provide an insight into the altitudinal variation in leaf N.
Cooperative starting intention detection of cyclists based on smart devices and infrastructure

In future traffic scenarios, vehicles and other traffic participants will be interconnected and equipped with various types of sensors, allowing for cooperation on different levels, such as situation prediction or intention detection. This article presents an approach to cooperative intention detection of starting cyclists using smart devices and infrastructure-based sensors. A smart device is carried by the cyclists and the infrastructure is equipped with a wide angle stereo camera system. The approach is based on a two-stage cooperative intention detection process consisting of a movement primitive detection in the first stage, used to recognize the current movement type, and a trajectory forecast in the second stage. In the first stage, cooperation is conducted by means of a stacking ensemble on the level of detected movement primitives. These cooperatively detected movement primitives are used in the second stage in an adaptive gating function that weights between multiple specialized forecasting models. Our cooperative method yields an earlier detection of starting motions compared to a non cooperative approach while retaining robustness. Moreover, we also show that the cooperative method using multiple models is able to reduce the effective forecasting error, reaching the same performance as the system with perfect movement primitive classification.
Development of the Diabetes Problem-Solving Measure for Adolescents

PURPOSE this paper describes the development and psychometric properties of the Diabetes Problem-Solving Measure for Adolescents (DPSMA). METHODS The DPSMA is a structured, interview-based questionnaire that examines how adolescents with type 1 diabetes solve diabetes-related self-management problems. Seventeen diabetes-related self-management problem vignettes were derived from a survey of adolescents and their parents. The vignettes were reviewed and finalized by a multidisciplinary team of diabetes experts. A sample of 43 adolescents, 13 to 17 years old, with type 1 diabetes, was used to establish the psychometric properties of the instrument. RESULTS The scale demonstrated acceptable internal consistency and interrater reliability. Predicted relationships with scores on concurrently administered measures of adherence, diabetes quality of life, and metabolic control provided support for construct validity. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that the DPSMA has acceptable internal consistency, interrater reliability, and construct validity. It may be a useful tool to help healthcare providers understand the diabetes-related problem-solving abilities of their adolescent patients.
Forecasting New Zealand's real GDP

Recent time series methods are applied to the problem of forecasting New Zealand's real GDP. Model selection is conducted within autoregressive (AR) and vector autoregressive (VAR) classes, allowing for evolution in the form of the models over time. The selections are performed using the Schwarz (1978) BIC and the Phillips‐Ploberger (1996) PIC criteria. The forecasts generated by the data‐determined AR models and an international VAR model are found to be competitive with forecasts from fixed format models and forecasts produced by the NZIER. Two illustrations of the methodology in conditional forecasting settings are performed with the VAR models. The first provides conditional predictions of New Zealand's real GDP when there is a future recession in the United States. The second gives conditional predictions of New Zealand's real GDP under a variety of profiles that allow for tightening in monetary conditions by the Reserve Bank.
Manipulation of host and parasite microbiotas: Survival strategies during chronic nematode infection

Intestinal parasite selects for its own intestinal microbiota from the host and modifies the host’s microbiota. Intestinal dwelling parasites have evolved closely with the complex intestinal microbiota of their host, but the significance of the host microbiota for metazoan pathogens and the role of their own intestinal microbiota are still not fully known. We have found that the parasitic nematode Trichuris muris acquired a distinct intestinal microbiota from its host, which was required for nematode fitness. Infection of germ-free mice and mice monocolonized with Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron demonstrated that successful T. muris infections require a host microbiota. Following infection, T. muris–induced alterations in the host intestinal microbiota inhibited subsequent rounds of infection, controlling parasite numbers within the host intestine. This dual strategy could promote the long-term survival of the parasite within the intestinal niche necessary for successful chronic nematode infection.
A pairwise likelihood augmented Cox estimator for left‐truncated data

Survival data collected from a prevalent cohort are subject to left truncation and the analysis is challenging. Conditional approaches for left‐truncated data could be inefficient as they ignore the information in the marginal likelihood of the truncation times. Length‐biased sampling methods may improve the estimation efficiency but only when the underlying truncation time is uniform; otherwise, they may generate biased estimates. We propose a semiparametric method for left‐truncated data under the Cox model with no parametric distributional assumption about the truncation times. Our approach is to make inference based on the conditional likelihood augmented with a pairwise likelihood, which eliminates the truncation distribution, yet retains the information about the regression coefficients and the baseline hazard function in the marginal likelihood. An iterative algorithm is provided to solve for the regression coefficients and the baseline hazard function simultaneously. By empirical process and U‐process theories, it has been shown that the proposed estimator is consistent and asymptotically normal with a closed‐form consistent variance estimator. Simulation studies show substantial efficiency gain of our estimator in both the regression coefficients and the cumulative baseline hazard function over the conditional approach estimator. When the uniform truncation assumption holds, our estimator enjoys smaller biases and efficiency comparable to that of the full maximum likelihood estimator. An application to the analysis of a chronic kidney disease cohort study illustrates the utility of the method.