Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Reward learning and negative emotion during rapid attentional competition

Learned stimulus-reward associations influence how attention is allocated, such that stimuli rewarded in the past are favored in situations involving limited resources and competition. At the same time, task-irrelevant, high-arousal negative stimuli capture attention and divert resources away from tasks resulting in poor behavioral performance. Yet, investigations of how reward learning and negative stimuli affect perceptual and attentional processing have been conducted in a largely independent fashion. We have recently reported that performance-based monetary rewards reduce negative stimuli interference during perception. The goal of the present study was to investigate how stimuli associated with past monetary rewards compete with negative stimuli during a subsequent attentional task when, critically, no performance-based rewards were at stake. Across two experiments, we found that target stimuli that were associated with high reward reduced the interference effect of potent, negative distractors. Similar to our recent findings with performance-based rewards, our results demonstrate that reward-associated stimuli reduce the deleterious impact of negative stimuli on behavior.
The impact of co-infections on the haematological profile of East African Short-horn Zebu calves

SUMMARY The cumulative effect of co-infections between pathogen pairs on the haematological response of East African Short-horn Zebu calves is described. Using a longitudinal study design a stratified clustered random sample of newborn calves were recruited into the Infectious Diseases of East African Livestock (IDEAL) study and monitored at 5-weekly intervals until 51 weeks of age. At each visit samples were collected and analysed to determine the infection status of each calf as well as their haematological response. The haematological parameters investigated included packed cell volume (PCV), white blood cell count (WBC) and platelet count (Plt). The pathogens of interest included tick-borne protozoa and rickettsias, trypanosomes and intestinal parasites. Generalized additive mixed-effect models were used to model the infectious status of pathogens against each haematological parameter, including significant interactions between pathogens. These models were further used to predict the cumulative effect of co-infecting pathogen pairs on each haematological parameter. The most significant decrease in PCV was found with co-infections of trypanosomes and strongyles. Strongyle infections also resulted in a significant decrease in WBC at a high infectious load. Trypanosomes were the major cause of thrombocytopenia. Platelet counts were also affected by interactions between tick-borne pathogens. Interactions between concomitant pathogens were found to complicate the prognosis and clinical presentation of infected calves and should be taken into consideration in any study that investigates disease under field conditions.
Achieving perfect completeness in classical-witness quantum merlin-arthur proof systems

This paper proves that classical-witness quantum Merlin-Arthur proof systems can achieve perfect completeness. That is, QCMA = QCMA1. This holds under any gate set with which the Hadamard and arbitrary classical reversible transformations can be exactly implemented, e.g., {Hadamard, Toffoli, NOT}. The proof is quantumly nonrelativizing, and uses a simple but novel quantum technique that additively adjusts the success probability, which may be of independent interest.
Construction of a FrameNet Labeler for Swedish Text

We describe the implementation of a FrameNet-based semantic role labeling system for Swedish text. To train the system, we used a semantically annotated corpus that was produced by projection across parallel corpora. As part of the system, we developed two frame element bracketing algorithms that are suitable when no robust constituent parsers are available. Apart from being the first such system for Swedish, this is, as far as we are aware, the first semantic role labeling system for a language for which no role-semantic annotated corpora are available. The estimated accuracy of classification of pre-segmented frame elements is 0.75, and the precision and recall measures for the complete task are 0.67 and 0.47, respectively.
Generation of the First-Order OAM Modes in Ring Fibers by Exerting Pressure Technology

We have proposed an effective method of generating the first-order orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes in ring fibers. The first-order OAM modes (<inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">${\rm{L = \pm 1}}$</tex-math> </inline-formula>) can be represented as the linear superposition of the <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX"> ${\rm{HE}}_{{21}}^{{\rm{even}}}$</tex-math></inline-formula> mode and the <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX"> ${\rm{HE}}_{{21}}^{{\rm{odd}}}$</tex-math></inline-formula> mode. Through exerting pressure on the ring fiber by a leverage device, the fundamental mode <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">${\rm{H}}{{\rm{E}}_{{11}}}$</tex-math> </inline-formula> can be coupled into higher order mode <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX"> ${\rm{H}}{{\rm{E}}_{{21}}}$</tex-math></inline-formula>in broadband wavelength ranging from 1530 to 1600 nm. By adjusting the fiber polarization controller and the pressure value exerted on the fiber, both the positive ( <inline-formula><tex-math notation="LaTeX">${\rm{L = + 1}}$</tex-math></inline-formula>) and negative (<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">${\rm{L = }} - {1}$</tex-math></inline-formula>) OAM modes can be generated separately. Moreover, we have demonstrated that the coupling efficiency from the fundamental mode to the first-order OAM modes at wavelength of 1550 nm can reach 67%.
Imaging-Based Liver Function Tests – Past, Present and Future

Abstract Preoperative assessment of liver function and prediction of postoperative functional reserve are important in patients scheduled for liver resection. While determination of absolute liver function currently mostly relies on laboratory tests and clinical scores, postoperative remnant liver function is estimated volumetrically using imaging data obtained with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Accurate estimation of hepatic function is also relevant for intensive care patients, oncologic patients, and patients with diffuse liver disease. The indocyanine green (ICG) test is still the only established test for estimating true global liver function. However, more recent tools such as the LiMAx test also allow global assessment of hepatic function. These tests are limited when liver function is inhomogeneously distributed, which is the case in such conditions as unilateral cholestasis or after portal vein embolization. Imaging-based liver function tests were first developed in nuclear medicine and, compared with laboratory tests, have the advantage of displaying the spatial distribution of liver function. Nuclear medicine scans are obtained using tracers such as 99mTc galactosyl and 99mTc mebrofenin. Liver function is typically assessed using planar scintigraphy. However, three-dimensional volumetry is possible with single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT-CT). Another technique for image-based liver function estimation is Gd-EOB-enhanced MRI. While metabolization of Gd-EOB in the body is similar to that of ICG and mebrofenin, its distribution in the liver can be displayed by MRI with higher temporal and spatial resolution. Moreover, MRI-based determination of liver function can be integrated into routine preoperative imaging. This makes MRI an ideal candidate for preoperative determination of liver function, though the best pulse sequence and the parameter to be derived from the image information remain to be identified. Another question to be answered is how the results may be affected by renal function and the presence of hyperbilirubinemia. As more results from clinical evaluation including comparison with postoperative liver function data become available, image-based liver function tests, especially with use of Gd-EOB as the contrast medium, have the potential to add another dimension to preoperative imaging. Key Points: • Liver function consists of a multitude of subfunctions such as biotransformation, excretion and storage. • Global liver function tests are score-based tests such as Child-Pugh or MELD as well as the ICG- and LiMAx-test. • Imaging-based liver function tests add spatial information. Current clinical standard is the 99mTc-Mebrofenin-scintigraphy. • MRI-based function tests with Gd-EOB-DTPA have the potential to integrate seamlessly into clinical workup, feature a higher temporal and spatial resolution and do not rely on ionizing radiation. Citation Format: • Geisel D, Lüdemann L, Hamm B et al. Imaging-Based Liver Function Tests – Past, Present and Future. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2015; 187: 863 – 871
The effect of duodenojejunal bypass for type 2 diabetes mellitus patients below body mass index 25 kg/m2: one year follow-up

Purpose The goals of this study are to evaluate the effect of duodenojejunal bypass (DJB) for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients below body mass index (BMI) 25 kg/m2 in one year follow-up, and to compare the results of 1 week which we have reported in 2011. Methods In this prospective observational study, there were 31 type 2 diabetic patients who underwent DJB at Inha University Hospital from July 2009 to January 2011. We did laboratories such as 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), insulin level and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), etc. and compared their changes of preoperative, a week, 3 months, and 12 months. Results Mean BMI was 23.1 ± 1.3 kg/m2, mean duration of T2DM was 8.3 ± 4.7 and mean age was 46.6 ± 7.7 years. There were a significant decrease of 75-g OGTT levels and increase of insulin secretion after 3 months. 13.3% showed diabetic remission (HbA1c < 6.0, medication cessation) and 26.7% showed diabetic improvement. The rates of remission and improvement much declined comparing with that of postoperative 1 week although those were determined by fasting and postprandial 2 hour level of glucose. Conclusion This is the first study of metabolic surgery in Korean diabetes patients in the healthy weight range. DJB exerted positive influences on insulin resistance as well as beta cell function. Early effects on T2DM after DJB could be estimated as one of good modalities, although the effectiveness seems to be unacceptable. Further studies are mandatory for evaluation of the effectiveness of metabolic surgery and finding prognostic factors.
Does Good Science Lead to Valuable Knowledge? Biotechnology Firms and the Evolutionary Logic of Citation Patterns

This study looks at the United States biotechnology industry as a community of practice caught between two evolutionary logics by which valuable scientific knowledge and valuable innovations are selected. We analyze the publications and patents of 116 biotechnology firms during the period 1988--1995. In models that link scientific capabilities to patent citations, we show that scientific ideas are not simply inputs into inventions; important scientific ideas and influential patents follow different and conflicting selection logics. Publication, collaboration, and science intensity are associated with patented innovations; however, important scientific papers are negatively associated with high-impact innovations. These results point to conflicting logics between science and innovation, and scientists must contribute to both while inhabiting a single epistemic community. We identify individuals listed on patents and scientific papers and find they effectively integrate science with innovation, leading to more successful innovations. Our findings suggest that the role of the small, research-intensive firm is to create a repository of knowledge; to act as an organizational mechanism to combine the capabilities of versatile scientists within and outside the boundaries of the firm; and to manage the selection of scientific ideas to produce valuable technical innovations.
Nonalbuminuric Renal Impairment in Type 2 Diabetic Patients and in the General Population (National Evaluation of the Frequency of Renal Impairment cO-existing with NIDDM [NEFRON] 11)

OBJECTIVE Most diabetic patients with impaired renal function have a urinary albumin excretion rate in the normal range. In these patients, the etiology of renal impairment is unclear, and it is also unclear whether this nonalbumunuric renal impairment is unique to diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS In this study, we examined the frequency and predictors of nonalbumunuric renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] <60 ml/min per 1.73 m2) in a nationally representative cohort of 3,893 patients with type 2 diabetes and compared our findings with rates observed in the general population from the Australian Diabetes, Obesity and Lifestyle Study (AusDiab) survey (n = 11,247). RESULTS Of the 23.1% of individuals with type 2 diabetes who had eGFR <60 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (95% CI 21.8–24.5%), more than half (55%) had a urinary albumin excretion rate that was persistently in the normal range. This rate of renal impairment was predictably higher than that observed in the general population (adjusted odds ratio 1.3, 95% CI 1.1–1.5, P < 0.01) but was solely due to chronic kidney disease associated with albuminuria. In contrast, renal impairment in the absence of albuminuria was less common in those with diabetes than in the general population, independent of sex, ethnicity, and duration of diabetes (0.6, 0.5–0.7, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Nonalbuminuric renal impairment is not more common in those with diabetes. However, its impact may be more significant. New studies are required to address the pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment of nonalbuminuric renal disease.
Potential of the corporate web site to generate trust in environmentally risky firms

Environmental risky firms require technical advances in order to provide sustainable approaches, but also to generate trust in their progress. We use the theory of reasoned action to propose that users of the corporate web site build trusting beliefs regarding three characteristics of the firm -ability, integrity, and benevolence- which are relevant factors with regard to understanding their intention to trust when dealing with an employment opportunity in the firm. Our experimental results involved 218 master students from a large public university in Europe. Our results show that the level of integrity and benevolence perceived by the users of the corporate web site will increase their willingness to accept a job in an environmentally risky firm.
Interaction Patterns of Children while Playing Computer Games

Children have great accessibility to computers. This affects the preferences of children in terms of spending their free times. Playing computer games is one of the most popular activities for them. It is important to deeply investigate children’s electronic game playing activities. The purpose of this case study was to identify interaction patterns of children while playing computer games. 10 students (4 girls and 6 boys) from a private elementary school were observed throughout 12 weeks of the Spring-2005 semester. They were mixed of 1 and 2 grade students. Students played computer games in one course hour (40 minutes) per week, and data were collected during these self-play hours through observations and interviews. The results of the study reveal that students’ interaction with other students starts most of the time when they want to learn something new about the computer game which they want to discover deeply. The successful students in terms of achieving the games’ goals were more popular kids than others.
Maintenance treatment for anorexia nervosa: a comparison of cognitive behavior therapy and treatment as usual.

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare two maintenance treatment conditions for weight-restored anorexia nervosa (AN): individual cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and maintenance treatment as usual (MTAU). METHOD This study was a nonrandomized clinical trial. The participants were 88 patients with AN who had achieved a minimum body mass index (BMI) of 19.5 and control of binge eating and purging symptoms after completing a specialized hospital-based program. Forty-six patients received 1 year of manualized individual CBT and 42 were in an assessment-only control condition (i.e., MTAU) for 1 year. This condition was intended to mirror follow-up care as usual. Participants in both the conditions were assessed at 3-month intervals during the 1-year study. The main outcome variable was time to relapse. RESULTS When relapse was defined as a BMI <or= 17.5 for 3 months or the resumption of regular binge eating and/or purging behavior for 3 months, time to relapse was significantly longer in the CBT condition when compared with MTAU. At 1 year, 65% of the CBT group and 34% of the MTAU group had not relapsed. DISCUSSION The current findings provide preliminary evidence that CBT may be helpful in improving outcome and preventing relapse in weight-restored AN.
CHARACTERIZATION OF AIR VOID DISTRIBUTION IN ASPHALT MIXES USING X-RAY COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY

This study describes experimental and analytical methods to quantify the structure of air voids in asphalt mixes. An x-ray computed tomography system along with image analysis techniques were used to measure air void sizes at different depths within asphalt mix specimens. The statistical analyses performed validated the applicability of the Weibull model for describing the air void distribution. Consequently, the Weibull model was used to quantify the effect of the compaction effort, method of compaction, and aggregate size distribution on air voids. The air void size distribution in Superpave gyratory compacted specimens was found to exhibit a “bathtub” shape, whereby larger voids were present at the top and bottom parts of a specimen. This shape was more pronounced at higher compaction efforts. The method of compaction was significant in influencing the air void size distribution. Specimens prepared using the Superpave gyratory compactor with different aggregate sizes were found to have noticeably diffe.
A Simple Index for the High-Citation Tail of Citation Distribution to Quantify Research Performance in Countries and Institutions

Background Conventional scientometric predictors of research performance such as the number of papers, citations, and papers in the top 1% of highly cited papers cannot be validated in terms of the number of Nobel Prize achievements across countries and institutions. The purpose of this paper is to find a bibliometric indicator that correlates with the number of Nobel Prize achievements. Methodology/Principal Findings This study assumes that the high-citation tail of citation distribution holds most of the information about high scientific performance. Here I propose the x-index, which is calculated from the number of national articles in the top 1% and 0.1% of highly cited papers and has a subtractive term to discount highly cited papers that are not scientific breakthroughs. The x-index, the number of Nobel Prize achievements, and the number of national articles in Nature or Science are highly correlated. The high correlations among these independent parameters demonstrate that they are good measures of high scientific performance because scientific excellence is their only common characteristic. However, the x-index has superior features as compared to the other two parameters. Nobel Prize achievements are low frequency events and their number is an imprecise indicator, which in addition is zero in most institutions; the evaluation of research making use of the number of publications in prestigious journals is not advised. Conclusion The x-index is a simple and precise indicator for high research performance.
Down's Syndrome: Failure to Detect Accelerated Ageing

The only firmly documented predisposition to trisomy 21, the immediate cause of Down's syndrome, is advanced maternal age. Thus, a 20-year-old woman has about a 1 in 2,000 chance of having a child with Down's syndrome, but by age 45 the risk is greater than 1 in 50. Since the distribution curve of mothers' ages in Down's syndrome is bitangential and in some samples is frankly bimodal, Penrose suggested that it consists of at least two components [1]. In one group, the frequency of Down's-syndrome births increases notably with advancing age, and it is in these cases that maternal age is an important predisposition. The distribution in the other group, which comprises one-third to one-half of the total, parallels the control population curve and includes cases in which maternal age is not a significant factor. Aside from the few instances of inherited translocations, etiologic factors in the maternal-age-independent group have not been conclusively elucidated. One clue may be found in the increased prevalence of thyroid antibodies observed in mothers of subjects with Down's syndrome [2-10]; this increase is almost entirely confined to mothers of maternal-age-independent subjects with Down's syndrome [ 11 ]. One possible explanation of the relationship between thyroid autoimmunity in mothers and Down's syndrome in their offspring is that immunological perturbations themselves predispose to chromosomal aberrations or that factors which trigger thyroid autoimmunity also cause chromosomal abnormalities. Since thyroid antibodies occur in increasing frequency with advancing age in control populations [12], it is conceivable that the underlying factors predispose not just to thyroid autoimmunity but also to other parameters associated with ageing. In accord with this hypothesis are the suggestions of increased prevalence in mothers of subjects with Down's syndrome of other age-related disorders such as cancer [8] and carbohydrate intolerance [13]. In order to objectively investigate the hypothesis that younger mothers of Down's-syndrome subjects have generalized accelerated ageing, we measured an aspect of senescence which can be quantitated at the cellular levelthe replicative life-span of cultivated skin fibroblasts [14, 15].
Screening for GermLine Rearrangements and Regulatory Mutations in BRCA 1 Led to the Identification of Four New Deletions 1

Most previous BRCA1mutation screening studies conducted on breast cancer families were aimed at identifying mutations in the coding sequence and splice sites. Mutations in the promoter and untranslated regions, and large rearrangements are missed by standard mutation detection strategies. To look specifically for such germ-line mutations in the BRCA1gene, we have analyzed a series of 27 American and 51 French breast cancer families in which noBRCA1 mutation was identified by classical techniques. No mutations were detected in either the promoter or untranslated regions, and we did not find any deletion of the whole gene. Four families were found to carry distinct deletions. Two of them, probably generated by Alu-mediated homologous recombination, were internal deletions of 3 and 23.8 kb, encompassing exon 15 and exons 8–13, respectively. These alterations both lead to a frameshift in the mutant mRNA and to premature stop codon-mediated mRNA decay. The other two deletions encompass exons 1 and 2. On the basis of previous and present analyses, rearrangements represent 8% (3/37) of all mutations in our set of BRCA1 American families. Consequently, the search for rearrangements appears mandatory inBRCA1 mutation screening studies.