Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Manganese Superoxide Dismutase Deficiency Exacerbates Cerebral Infarction After Focal Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion in Mice: Implications for the Production and Role of Superoxide Radicals

Background and Purpose— Superoxide anion radicals (O2·−) are implicated in ischemia/reperfusion injury, although a direct relationship has not been elucidated. Recently, a specific method of hydroethidine (HEt) oxidation by O2·− was developed to detect O2·− production in a variety of experimental brain injury models. To clarify the role of O2·− in the mechanism of ischemia/reperfusion, we investigated O2·− production after ischemia/reperfusion and ischemia/reperfusion injury in mutant mice deficient in mitochondrial manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) and in wild-type littermates. Methods— Ischemia/reperfusion was performed for 60 minutes using intraluminal suture blockade of the middle cerebral artery in the mutant or wild-type mice. We evaluated fluorescent kinetics of HEt or ethidium, the oxidized form of HEt, in brains after an intravenous injection of HEt, followed by measurement of cellular O2·− production using specific HEt oxidation by O2·− before and after ischemia/reperfusion. Furthermore, we compared O2·− production and subsequent infarct volume in the mice using triphenyltetrazolium chloride after ischemia/reperfusion. Results— HEt oxidation to ethidium is primarily a result of mitochondrially produced O2·− under physiological conditions. Cerebral ischemia/reperfusion produced O2·− prominently in neurons shortly after reperfusion, followed by a delayed increase in endothelial cells. A deficiency in MnSOD in mutant mice increased mitochondrial O2·− production and exacerbated cerebral infarction, worsening neurological deficits after ischemia/reperfusion. Conclusion— These results suggest that mitochondrial O2·− production may be a critical step underlying the mechanism of ischemia/reperfusion injury and that MnSOD may protect against ongoing oxidative cell death after ischemia/reperfusion.
A theory of concepts and their combinations I

PurposeTo elaborate a theory for modeling concepts that incorporates how a context influences the typicality of a single exemplar and the applicability of a single property of a concept. To investigate the structure of the sets of contexts and properties.Design/methodology/approachThe effect of context on the typicality of an exemplar and the applicability of a property is accounted for by introducing the notion of “state of a concept”, and making use of the state‐context‐property formalism (SCOP), a generalization of the quantum formalism, whose basic notions are states, contexts and properties.FindingsThe paper proves that the set of context and the set of properties of a concept is a complete orthocomplemented lattice, i.e. a set with a partial order relation, such that for each subset there exists a greatest lower bound and a least upper bound, and such that for each element there exists an orthocomplement. This structure describes the “and”, “or”, and “not”, respectively for contexts and properties. It shows that the context lattice as well as the property lattice are non‐classical, i.e. quantum‐like, lattices.Originality/valueAlthough the effect of context on concepts is widely acknowledged, formal mathematical structures of theories that incorporate this effect have not been successful. The study of this formal structure is a preparation for the elaboration of a theory of concepts that allows the description of the combination of concepts.
Land Use/Land Cover Dynamics and Modeling of Urban Land Expansion by the Integration of Cellular Automata and Markov Chain

This study explored the past and present land-use/land-cover (LULC) changes and urban expansion pattern for the cities of the Kathmandu valley and their surroundings using Landsat satellite images from 1988 to 2016. For a better analysis, LULC change information was grouped into seven time-periods (1988–1992, 1992–1996, 1996–2000, 2000–2004, 2004–2008, 2008–2013, and 2013–2016). The classification was conducted using the support vector machines (SVM) technique. A hybrid simulation model that combined the Markov-Chain and Cellular Automata (MC-CA) was used to predict the future urban sprawl existing by 2024 and 2032. Research analysis explored the significant expansion in urban cover which was manifested at the cost of cultivated land. The urban area totaled 40.53 km2 in 1988, which increased to 144.35 km2 in 2016 with an average annual growth rate of 9.15%, an overall increase of 346.85%. Cultivated land was the most affected land-use from this expansion. A total of 91% to 98% of the expanded urban area was sourced from cultivated land alone. Future urban sprawl is likely to continue, which will be outweighed by the loss of cultivated land as in the previous decades. The urban area will be expanded to 200 km2 and 238 km2 and cultivated land will decline to 587 km2 and 555 km2 by 2024 and 2032. Currently, urban expansion is occurring towards the west and south directions; however, future urban growth is expected to rise in the southern and eastern part of the study area, dismantling the equilibrium of environmental and anthropogenic avenues. Since the study area is a cultural landscape and UNESCO heritage site, balance must be found not only in developing a city, but also in preserving the natural environment and maintaining cultural artifacts.
A Model for the -calculus

We develop a semantic theory based on testing for a minor variant of the-calculus. The resulting semantic equivalence can be characterised using of acceptance sets and can also be characterised as an equational theory. We deene a class of interpretations for the-calculus and construct one which is fully-abstract. Moreover the interpretation we construct is initial in the class of all fully-abstract interpretations.
Numerical linear algebra in the streaming model

We give near-optimal space bounds in the streaming model for linear algebra problems that include estimation of matrix products, linear regression, low-rank approximation, and approximation of matrix rank. In the streaming model, sketches of input matrices are maintained under updates of matrix entries; we prove results for turnstile updates, given in an arbitrary order. We give the first lower bounds known for the space needed by the sketches, for a given estimation error ε. We sharpen prior upper bounds, with respect to combinations of space, failure probability, and number of passes. The sketch we use for matrix A is simply S<sup>T</sup>A, where S is a sign matrix. Our results include the following upper and lower bounds on the bits of space needed for 1-pass algorithms. Here A is an n x d matrix, B is an n x d' matrix, and c := d+d'. These results are given for fixed failure probability; for failure probability δ>0, the upper bounds require a factor of log(1/δ) more space. We assume the inputs have integer entries specified by O(log(nc)) bits, or O(log(nd)) bits. (Matrix Product) Output matrix C with F(A<sup>T</sup>B-C) ≤ ε F(A) F(B). We show that Θ(cε<sup>-2</sup>log(nc)) space is needed. (Linear Regression) For d'=1, so that B is a vector b, find x so that Ax-b ≤ (1+ε) min<sub>x' ∈ Real<sup>d</sup></sub> Ax'-b. We show that Θ(d<sup>2</sup>ε<sup>-1</sup> log(nd)) space is needed. (Rank-k Approximation) Find matrix tA<sub>k</sub> of rank no more than k, so that F(A-tA<sub>k</sub>) ≤ (1+ε) F{A-A<sub>k</sub>}, where A<sub>k</sub> is the best rank-k approximation to A. Our lower bound is Ω(kε<sup>-1</sup>(n+d)log(nd)) space, and we give a one-pass algorithm matching this when A is given row-wise or column-wise. For general updates, we give a one-pass algorithm needing [O(kε<sup>-2</sup>(n + d/ε<sup>2</sup>)log(nd))] space. We also give upper and lower bounds for algorithms using multiple passes, and a sketching analog of the CUR decomposition.
Derlin-1 Regulates Mutant VCP-Linked Pathogenesis and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Induced Apoptosis

Mutations in VCP (Valosin-containing protein), an AAA ATPase critical for ER-associated degradation, are linked to IBMPFD (Inclusion body myopathy with Paget disease and frontotemporal dementia). Using a Drosophila IBMPFD model, we have identified the ER protein Derlin-1 as a modifier of pathogenic TER94 (the fly VCP homolog) mutants. Derlin-1 binds to TER94 directly, and this interaction is essential for Derlin-1 overexpression to suppress the pathogenic TER94-induced neurodegeneration. Derlin-1 overexpression reduces the elevated ATPase activity of pathogenic TER94, implying that IBMPFD is caused by ATPase hyper-activation. Under physiological condition, Derlin-1 expression is increased upon ER stress to recruit TER94 to the ER. However, in response to severe ER stress, Derlin-1 is required for activating apoptosis to eliminate damaged cells. This pro-apoptotic response is mimicked by Derlin-1 overexpression, which elicits acute ER stress and triggers apoptosis via a novel C-terminal motif (α). As this Derlin-1-dependent cell death is negated by TER94 overexpression, we propose that while Derlin-1 and VCP work cooperatively in ER stress response, their imbalance has a role in removing cells suffering prolonged ER stress.
Publishing in AMJ—Part 2: Research Design

This editorial continues a seven-part series, " Publishing in AMJ, " in which the editors give suggestions and advice for improving the quality of submissions to the Journal. The series offers " bumper to bumper " coverage, with installments ranging from topic choice to crafting a Discussion section. The series will continue in October with " Part 3: Setting the Hook. "-J.A. C. Most scholars, as part of their doctoral education, take a research methodology course in which they learn the basics of good research design, including that design should be driven by the questions being asked and that threats to validity should be avoided. For this reason, there is little novelty in our discussion of research design. Rather, we focus on common design issues that lead to rejected manuscripts at AMJ. The practical problem confronting researchers as they design studies is that (a) there are no hard and fast rules to apply; matching research design to research questions is as much art as science; and (b) external factors sometimes constrain researchers' ability to carry out optimal designs (McGrath, 1981). Access to organizations, the people in them, and rich data about them present a significant challenge for management scholars, but if such constraints become the central driver of design decisions, the outcome is a manuscript with many plausible alternative explanations for the results, which leads ultimately to rejection and the waste of considerable time, effort, and money. Choosing the appropriate design is critical to the success of a manuscript at AMJ, in part because the fundamental design of a study cannot be altered during the revision process. Decisions made during the research design process ultimately impact the degree of confidence readers can place in the conclusions drawn from a study, the degree to which the results provide a strong test of the researcher's arguments, and the degree to which alternative explanations can be discounted. In reviewing articles that have been rejected by AMJ during the past year, we identified three broad design problems that were common sources of rejection: (a) mismatch between research question and design, (b) measurement and operational issues (i.e., construct validity), and (c) inappropriate or incomplete model specification. Cross-sectional data. Use of cross-sectional data is a common cause of rejection at AMJ, of both micro and macro research. Rejection does not happen because such data are inherently flawed or because reviewers or editors are biased against such data. …
Effects of oral amino acid supplementation on Multidimensional Prognostic Index in hospitalized older patients: a multicenter randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study

Background It is not known whether amino acid supplementations may influence health status in hospitalized older acutely ill patients. Aim The aim of this study was to determine whether nutritional supplementation with amino acids (Aminoglutam®) is associated with multidimensional improvement assessed with the Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI). Methods In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot clinical trial, 126 patients aged ≥65 years were enrolled from 6 Italian geriatric wards. A multidimensional assessment to calculate the MPI was performed at baseline and after 4 weeks of treatment with nutritional supplementation (96 kcal, 12 g amino acids, 0.18 g fat, 11.6 g carbohydrate, and vitamins B1, B6, and C) or placebo administered twice a day. Logistic regression modeling was applied to determine the effect of treatment on the improvement of MPI (vs no-change/worsening), adjusting for gender, age, and MPI at baseline. Treatment’s interactions with age, gender, and MPI at baseline were tested adding the appropriate interaction parameter in the regression models. Results Of the 126 patients included, 117 patients (93%) completed the study. A significant improvement in the MPI score was detected in the overall population (mean difference post-pretreatment: −0.03, p=0.001), with no differences between active and placebo arms. Men in the amino acid supplementation group had a significantly higher rate of improvement in MPI (81%) compared to the placebo group (46%) (Fisher’s exact test p=0.03). Adjusting for age, diagnosis, and MPI at baseline, amino acid treatment was shown to be associated with an improvement in MPI in men (OR=4.82, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.87–26.7) and not in women (OR=0.70, 95% CI: 0.27–1.81). The interaction effect between active treatment and gender was significant (p=0.04). Conclusion A 4-week amino acid supplementation improved the MPI significantly in hospitalized older male patients but not in female patients. Further studies are needed to confirm the gender effect of amino acid supplementation on MPI in older patients.
Controlling sensation intensity for electrotactile stimulation in human-machine interfaces

Modulating electrotactile stimulation parameters in response to changes in impedance reduces variation in perceived sensation. A barrier to practical use of electrotactile stimulation for haptic feedback has been large variability in perceived sensation intensity because of changes in the impedance of the electrode-skin interface, such as when electrodes peel or users sweat. We show how to significantly reduce this variability by modulating stimulation parameters in response to measurements of impedance. Our method derives from three contributions. First, we created a model between stimulation parameters and impedance at constant perceived sensation intensity by looking at the peak pulse energy and phase charge. Our model fits experimental data better than previous models [mean correlation coefficient (r2) > 0.9] and holds over a larger set of conditions (participants, sessions, magnitudes of sensation, stimulation locations, and electrode sizes). Second, we implemented a controller that regulates perceived sensation intensity by using our model to derive a new current amplitude and pulse duration in response to changes in impedance. Our controller accurately predicts participant-chosen stimulation parameters at constant sensation intensity (mean r2 > 0.9). Third, we demonstrated as a proof of concept on two participants with below-elbow amputations—using a prosthesis with electrotactile touch feedback—that our controller can regulate sensation intensity in response to large impedance changes that occur in activities of daily living. These results make electrotactile stimulation for human-machine interfaces more reliable during activities of daily living.
Serotonin Transporter Gene Polymorphism Modulates Activity and Connectivity within an Emotional Arousal Network of Healthy Men during an Aversive Visceral Stimulus

Background and Aims The 5-hydroxytryptamine transporter gene-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) has been linked to increased stress responsiveness and negative emotional states. During fearful face recognition individuals with the s allele of 5-HTTLPR show greater amygdala activation. We aimed to test the hypothesis that the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism differentially affects connectivity within brain networks during an aversive visceral stimulus. Methods Twenty-three healthy male subjects were enrolled. DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood. The genotype of 5-HTTLPR was determined using polymerase chain reaction. Subjects with the s/s genotype (n = 13) were compared to those with the l allele (genotypes l/s, l/l, n = 10). Controlled rectal distension from 0 to 40 mmHg was delivered in random order using a barostat. Radioactive H2[15-O] saline was injected at time of distension followed by positron emission tomography (PET). Changes in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) were analyzed using partial least squares (PLS) and structural equation modeling (SEM). Results During baseline, subjects with s/s genotype demonstrated a significantly increased negative influence of pregenual ACC (pACC) on amygdala activity compared to l-carriers. During inflation, subjects with s/s genotype demonstrated a significantly greater positive influence of hippocampus on amygdala activity compared to l-carriers. Conclusion In male Japanese subjects, individuals with s/s genotype show alterations in the connectivity of brain regions involved in stress responsiveness and emotion regulation during aversive visceral stimuli compared to those with l carriers.
The Outcomes and Experiences Questionnaire: development and validation

Background This report presents evidence regarding the development and validation of a new questionnaire, the Outcomes and Experiences Questionnaire (OEQ). The rationale for the questionnaire is to bring together into one short instrument questions about two distinct domains – patients’ reports of the outcomes of their care and how they experience care. Methods The OEQ was developed from literature reviews, iterative drafting and discussion within the research group and cognitive testing with a sample of patients who had a hospital experience. Two validation studies were carried out with an eleven item OEQ. The goals of the studies were to examine response rates and to test specific hypotheses of how OEQ should relate to other variables normally collected in the two studies. In the first study, the OEQ was added to the follow-up questionnaires for patients (n=490) receiving surgery for hip or knee replacement or varicose vein procedures participating in the national Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) program permitting the analysis of the OEQ against change scores for the measures obtained before and after surgery. In the second study the OEQ was included in a sample of patients (n=586) who had been selected to receive the National Health Service (NHS) inpatient survey from three contrasting hospital trusts. Results Results from study one provided consistent and substantial evidence of construct validity of OEQ particularly for those receiving hip or knee replacement. The OEQ sub-scales behaved differently and as predicted against other PROMs variables. Again hypotheses of how the two sub-scales regarding outcomes and experiences would relate to the existing domains of patient experience in the inpatient survey were broadly confirmed in study two. Conclusion The report provides encouraging evidence of the OEQ’s capacity to assess distinct reports from patients about outcomes and experiences of care within a single short questionnaire.
A Quantitative Study of Network Robustness in Resting-State fMRI in Young and Elder Adults

Brain connectivity analysis has shown great promise in understanding how aging affects functional connectivity; however, an explanatory framework to study healthy aging in terms of network efficiency is still missing. Here, we study network robustness, i.e., resilience to perturbations, in resting-state functional connectivity networks (rs-fMRI) in young and elder subjects. We apply analytic measures of network communication efficiency in the human brain to investigate the compensatory mechanisms elicited in aging. Specifically, we quantify the effect of “lesioning” (node canceling) of either single regions of interest (ROI) or whole networks on global connectivity metrics (i.e., efficiency). We find that young individuals are more resilient than old ones to random “lesioning” of brain areas; global network efficiency is over 3 times lower in older subjects relative to younger subjects. On the other hand, the “lesioning” of central and limbic structures in young subjects yield a larger efficiency loss than in older individuals. Overall, our study shows a more idiosyncratic response to specific brain network “lesioning” in elder compared to young subjects, and that young adults are more resilient to random deletion of single nodes compared to old adults.
Ricean over Gaussian modelling in magnitude fMRI analysis—added complexity with negligible practical benefits

It is well known that Gaussian modelling of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) magnitude time‐course data, which are truly Rice distributed, constitutes an approximation, especially at low signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs). Based on this fact, previous work has argued that Rice‐based activation tests show superior performance over their Gaussian‐based counterparts at low SNRs and should be preferred in spite of the attendant additional computational and estimation burden. Here, we revisit these past studies and, after identifying and removing their underlying limiting assumptions and approximations, provide a more comprehensive comparison. Our experimental evaluations using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve methodology show that tests derived using Ricean modelling are substantially superior over the Gaussian‐based activation tests only for SNRs below 0.6, that is, SNR values far lower than those encountered in fMRI as currently practiced.Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Issues in early prediction and identification of intellectual giftedness.

Early prediction and detection of high intellectual ability has long been of interest to developmental psychologists and educators. As early as 1940, Thomdike (1940), in his Psychological Bulletin article titled " 'Constancy' of the IQ," reviewed the predictive value of infant and preschool tests and concluded that they are of limited value in predicting school-age intelligence test performance. Subsequent reviews throughout the century have continued to corroborate this general conclusion (e.g., Colombo, 1993; McCall, Hogarty, & Hurlburt, 1972) despite the strong psychometric characteristics of the standardized instruments used.
Risk factors for DSM 5 PTSD symptoms in Israeli civilians during the Gaza war

In light of the current modifications presented in the diagnostic criteria of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the DSM 5, this study aimed at revalidating well‐known PTSD risk factors, including gender, peritraumatic dissociation, social support, level of threat, and trait tendency for forgiveness.
Stability of randomly switched diffusions

This paper provides a sufficient criterion for ε-moment stability (boundedness) and ergodicity for a class of systems comprising a finite set of diffusions among which switching is governed by a continuous time Markov chain. Stability/instability properties for each separate subsystem are assumed to be quantified by a Lyapunov function candidate and an associated growth rate equation. For the set of Lyapunov functions a compatibility criterion is assumed to be fulfilled bounding the ratio between pairs of Lyapunov functions. The established criterion is shown to be equivalent to an exact criterion for the almost sure convergence of an associated process bounding moments of the process under study. Examples are provided to illustrate the use of the established criterion.