Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Accurate Floating-Point Summation Part II: Sign, K-Fold Faithful and Rounding to Nearest

In Part II of this paper we first refine the analysis of error-free vector transformations presented in Part I. Based on that we present an algorithm for calculating the rounded-to-nearest result of $s:=\sum p_i$ for a given vector of floating-point numbers $p_i$, as well as algorithms for directed rounding. A special algorithm for computing the sign of $s$ is given, also working for huge dimensions. Assume a floating-point working precision with relative rounding error unit eps . We define and investigate a $K$-fold faithful rounding of a real number $r$. Basically the result is stored in a vector $\mathtt{Res}_{\nu}$ of $K$ nonoverlapping floating-point numbers such that $\sum\mathtt{Res}_{\nu}$ approximates $r$ with relative accuracy $\mathtt{eps}^K$, and replacing $\mathtt{Res}_K$ by its floating-point neighbors in $\sum\mathtt{Res}_{\nu}$ forms a lower and upper bound for $r$. For a given vector of floating-point numbers with exact sum $s$, we present an algorithm for calculating a $K$-fold faithful rounding of $s$ using solely the working precision. Furthermore, an algorithm for calculating a faithfully rounded result of the sum of a vector of huge dimension is presented. Our algorithms are fast in terms of measured computing time because they allow good instruction-level parallelism, they neither require special operations such as access to mantissa or exponent, they contain no branch in the inner loop, nor do they require some extra precision. The only operations used are standard floating-point addition, subtraction, and multiplication in one working precision, for example, double precision. Certain constants used in the algorithms are proved to be optimal.
Effect of Low-Frequency rTMS and NMES on Subacute Unilateral Hemispheric Stroke With Dysphagia

Objective To investigate the effect of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on post-stroke dysphagia. Methods Subacute (<3 months), unilateral hemispheric stroke patients with dysphagia were randomly assigned to the conventional dysphagia therapy (CDT), rTMS, or NMES groups. In rTMS group, rTMS was performed at 100% resting motor threshold with 1 Hz frequency for 20 minutes per session (5 days per week for 2 weeks). In NMES group, electrical stimulation was applied to the anterior neck for 30 minutes per session (5 days per week for 2 weeks). All three groups were given conventional dysphagia therapy for 4 weeks. We evaluated the functional dysphagia scale (FDS), pharyngeal transit time (PTT), the penetration-aspiration scale (PAS), and the American Speech-Language Hearing Association National Outcomes Measurement System (ASHA NOMS) swallowing scale at baseline, after 2 weeks, and after 4 weeks. Results Forty-seven patients completed the study; 15 in the CDT group, 14 in the rTMS group, and 18 in the NMES group. Mean changes in FDS and PAS for liquid during first 2 weeks in the rTMS and NMES groups were significantly higher than those in the CDT group, but no significant differences were found between the rTMS and NMES group. No significant difference in mean changes of FDS and PAS for semi-solid, PTT, and ASHA NOMS was observed among the three groups. Conclusion These results indicated that both low-frequency rTMS and NMES could induce early recovery from dysphagia; therefore, they both could be useful therapeutic options for dysphagic stroke patients.
The Politics of Urban Space: Modes of Place-making by Italians in Toronto's Neighbourhoods

This paper examines the politics of urban space through a consideration of three ways Italians in Toronto, Canada, create, make claims to and express their belonging in particular neighbourhoods in the city. The article considers forms of claiming and colonizing space that are not overtly violent or confrontational with respect to other groups living within the plural city but, in effect, are assertions of power over particular places with which others must contend. The three forms encompass a range of scales, temporal duration and purposeful collective expression by Italians in Toronto, and they include the quotidian shaping of neighbourhoods, the calendrical colonizing of public spaces during religious and secular celebrations and the monument building that attests to the permanence of Italians in the city. Ultimately, these forms of place-making must contend with the larger forces of commodification and popular imagery that influence the spatial representations of Italians in Toronto.
Detecting concealed information with reaction times: Validity and comparison with the polygraph

The Concealed Information Test is used to assess recognition of information that the examinee cannot or does not want to reveal. Physiological measures recorded with the polygraph have shown to be highly valid measures of concealed information. Research suggests that a reaction-time (RT) based test may also successfully reveal concealed information. Due to its simplicity, an RT-based test has great advantages for applied testing. In the present study, we assessed the validity of the RT-based test for concealed information detection, and compared its discriminative power with the polygraph. Thirty two participants in a feigned amnesia study were promised a financial reward when successfully concealing autobiographical information. Participants performed an RT-based test, and a polygraph test. The data support the validity of the RT-based test for concealed information detection, and indicate its discriminative power is similar to the polygraph. Our data confirm the potential of the RT-based test. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CTGF upregulation correlates with MMP-9 level in airway remodeling in a murine model of asthma

Introduction Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) mediates hypertrophy, proliferation, and extracellular matrix synthesis. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) plays a role in airway extracellular matrix remodeling. The correlation between CTGF and MMP in airway remodeling of asthma was unknown. This study investigated lung CTGF expression and its correlation with MMP and airway structural changes in a murine model of asthma. Material and methods Female BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged by intraperitoneal injections and intranasal phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or ovalbumin (OVA). Airway responsiveness and serum OVA-specific IgE were measured. Airway structural changes were quantified by morphometric analysis. Differential cell counts and MMP-2, MMP-9, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 were evaluated in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Lung CTGF was determined by Western blot. Results Serum OVA-specific IgE level and airway responsiveness in enhanced pause (Penh) is significantly higher in sensitized mice challenged with OVA compared to PBS-challenged mice. MMP-2, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 in BALF were significantly higher in OVA mice. Airway structural changes of animals’ lungs with OVA challenge showed increased thickness of the smooth muscle layer and numbers of Goblet cells and inflammatory cells and eosinophils near airways and perivascular areas. Lung CTGF expression significantly increased in OVA-challenged mice. CTGF expressions positively correlated with MMP-9 (r = 0.677, p < 0.05), TIMP-1 (r = 0.574, p < 0.05) and thickness of the smooth muscle layer (r = 0.499, p < 0.05). Conclusions This study indicates that CTGF upregulation correlates with MMP-9, probably involved in the pathogenesis of airway remodeling of asthma.
On Joining Interest Groups: An Empirical Consideration of the Work of Mancur Olson Jr.

The academic literature on interest groups has tended to concentrate on the assessment of the relative influence of these groups in different political systems, and on the implications of the activities of interest groups for democratic ideology. In recent years, however, the work of Mancur Olson has stimulated an increasing interest in the formation of interest groups, and in the reasons why individuals (or corporate bodies) join them. The aim of this article is to examine Olson's analysis in the light of a study of one major British economic interest group, the Confederation of British Industry. In the course of this examination I hope to illustrate some of the weaknesses of Olson's analysis and to suggest how it might be refined and developed.
The effectiveness of student‐authored field trails as a means of enhancing geomorphological interpretation

Abstract A course developed to enhance students’ appreciation of local geomorphology through the construction of interpretive field trails is described. Students work in teams to produce a trail leaflet and designs for information boards. The emphasis on field‐based activity, student‐led participation and the notion of a target audience differs from traditional geomorphology courses. The extent to which these skills complement other geomorphological teaching is considered. Strategies for achieving a suitable balance between practical and theoretical material and for encouraging teamwork dynamics are identified as important components of course design.
Ocular nerve growth factor administration counteracts the impairment of neural precursor cell viability and differentiation in the brain subventricular area of rats with streptozotocin‐induced diabetes

The ocular administration of nerve growth factor (NGF) as eye drops (oNGF) has been shown to exert protective effects in forebrain‐injured animal models, including adult diabetes induced by a single injection of streptozotocin (STZ) (60 mg/kg body weight). This type 1 diabetes model was used in this study to investigate whether oNGF might extend its actions on neuronal precursors localised in the subventricular zone (SVZ). NGF or saline was administrated as eye drops twice daily for 2 weeks in rats with STZ‐induced diabetes and healthy control rats. The expression of mature and precursor NGF and the NGF receptors, tropomyosin‐related kinase A and neurotrophin receptor p75, and the levels of DNA fragmentation were analysed by ELISA and western blotting. Incorporation of bromodeoxyuridine was used to trace newly formed cells. Nestin, polysialylated neuronal cell adhesion molecule (PSA‐NCAM), doublecortin (DCX) and glial fibrillary acidic protein antibodies were used to identify the SVZ cells by confocal microscopy. It was found that oNGF counteracts the STZ‐induced cell death and the alteration of mature/pro‐NGF expression in the SVZ. It also affects the survival and differentiation of SVZ progenitors. In particular, oNGF counteracts the reduction in the number of cells expressing PSA‐NCAM/DCX (neuroblast type A cells) and the related reductions in the number and distribution of nestin/DCX‐positive cells (C‐type cells), or glia‐committed cells (type B cells), observed in the SVZ of diabetic rats. These findings show that oNGF treatment counteracts the effect of type 1 diabetes on neuronal precursors in the SVZ, and further support the neuroprotective and reparative role of oNGF in the brain.
The effect of heroin on verbal memory.

BACKGROUND As a result of long-term heroin abuse we can see impairment of cerebral structures, that leads to specific psychopathological and neuro - physiological deficits in the cognitive and connative areas. There is a positive correlation between the mentioned deficits and the duration of heroin abuse. The memory is a cognitive function highly sensitive to toxic effects of opiates. The aim of this study was to establish the psychiatric and psychological consequences of heroin abuse, in the sense of verbal memory deficits, and the specific relation between mentioned deficits with the duration of abuse. SUBJECTS AND METHODS The research was devised as a prospective study, including ninety heroin addicts, divided into three groups, based on the abuse duration. The following instruments were used for data collecting: questionnaire, with basic social-demographic and addictive characteristics of subjects and Rey Test of Verbal Learning, a neuropsychological test for verbal memory estimation. RESULTS Only the examinees who have abused heroin for less than a year obtained scores within the domain of the expected performances within the part of the test which relates to the direct verbal memory, as well as, the part of the test that relates to delayed verbal memory. With regard to the mentioned criteria, the difference between examinees with different length of opiates abuse is statistically important (direct memory: F=2.706; p=0.063, delayed memory: F=2.538; p=0.045). With the increase of heroin abuse length the number of examinees with a rising learning curve is decreased significantly, and the number of examinees with a flat learning curve is increased (Chi-square=19.589; p=0.003). CONCLUSION Heroin abuse, lasting longer than one year, is connected with impairment of short-term and delayed verbal memory. The intensity of the mentioned effects is higher with addicts who use a higher daily dose of heroin.
The prevalence and clinical significance of intestinal parasites in HIV-infected patients in Denmark

Abstract To investigate the prevalence and clinical significance of intestinal parasites in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients, faecal specimens from 96 HIV-infected patients were submitted to microbiological analyses, including microscopy and polymerase chain reaction for protozoa and enteropathogenic bacteria. Results of microbiological analyses were compared with self-reported gastrointestinal complaints collected using a validated questionnaire. Thirty-two (33%) patients were positive for parasites. However, opportunistic parasites (Isospora and Cryptosporidium) were detected in only 2 instances. Entamoeba dispar was detected in 10 cases, 9 of which represented men who have sex with men (MSM). Despite generally low HIV RNA loads and high CD4+ T-cell counts, 42% of the 76 patients reporting symptoms complained of diarrhoea, 31% of whom were parasite-positive. The presence of diarrhoea was not associated with the presence or absence of parasites; neither was it associated with receiving highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) in general, or protease inhibitors (PI) in particular. A CD4+ T-cell count <200 cells/mm3 was not associated with parasitic infection or with diarrhoea. The data show that diarrhoea is a common symptom among HIV-infected patients in Denmark, but do not indicate that the diarrhoea is due to intestinal parasites.
Conceptions of Intelligence

This paper argues for the scientific utility of the concept “intelligence”. In the first section three common arguments against the validity of general intelligence are discussed and dismissed. The second section presents the evidence in favour of the proposition that individual differences in IQ may be based on differences in speed of information processing. However, the third section shows that executive functions, particularly inhibitory processes, represent a more likely basis for the development of intelligence. The theory of the minimal cognitive architecture underlying intelligence and development (Anderson, 1992a) shows how speed and executive functioning might represent two dimensions to g —one an individual differences (within age) dimension based on speed and the other a developmental dimension based on changing executive functioning. In the fourth section this theory is used to generate new insights on the nature of intellectual disability and specific cognitive deficits and to make practical suggestions for educational intervention for low-IQ children.
A social interaction analysis of the daily conversations of couples coping with breast cancer

This dissertation used naturalistically-observed snippets of actual conversations of couples coping with breast cancer to understand how often, with whom, and how couples talk about cancer and other topics, and how these conversations relate to both partners‘ adjustment to the experience. Fifty-six breast cancer patients undergoing treatment and their spouses wore the Electronically Activated Recorder (EAR) for one weekend and completed adjustment questionnaires at baseline and a two-month follow-up. The first study revealed that couples discussed cancer in fewer than 10% of their conversations, and that these conversations occurred more frequently with each other than with friends and family. Cancer conversations tended to be informational and supportive, and spouses‘, rather than patients‘, discussion of cancer tended to be more related to adjustment. The second study analyzed the social language used within couples‘ cancerrelated and other topics of conversation. Specifically, it examined the associations between we-talk (first-person plural pronouns), I-talk (first-person singular pronouns), and you-talk (second-person pronouns) and couples‘ adjustment. Results revealed that, contrary to prediction, both partners‘ we-talk was associated with concurrent, rather than future, adjustment. Further, both partners‘ focus on the spouse, indicated by I-talk and you-talk, was related to better adjustment for spouses. The findings in this dissertation indicate that psychosocial factors influence spouses‘ adjustment at least as much as patients‘ adjustment to breast cancer, and that couples without an exclusive focus on the patient may fare better overall.
Maternal Outcome After Conservative Treatment of Placenta Accreta

OBJECTIVE: To estimate maternal outcome after conservative management of placenta accreta. METHODS: This retrospective multicenter study sought to include all women treated conservatively for placenta accreta in tertiary university hospital centers in France from 1993 to 2007. Conservative management was defined by the obstetrician's decision to leave the placenta in situ, partially or totally, with no attempt to remove it forcibly. The primary outcome was success of conservative treatment, defined by uterine preservation. The secondary outcome was a composite measure of severe maternal morbidity including sepsis, septic shock, peritonitis, uterine necrosis, fistula, injury to adjacent organs, acute pulmonary edema, acute renal failure, deep vein thrombophlebitis or pulmonary embolism, or death. RESULTS: Of the 40 university hospitals that agreed to participate in this study, 25 institutions had used conservative treatment at least once (range 1–46) and had treated a total of 167 women. Conservative treatment was successful for 131 of the women (78.4%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 71.4–84.4%); of the remaining 36 women, 18 had primary hysterectomy and 18 had delayed hysterectomy (10.8% each, 95% CI 6.5–16.5%). Severe maternal morbidity occurred in 10 cases (6.0%, 95% CI 2.9–10.7%). One woman died of myelosuppression and nephrotoxicity related to intraumbilical methotrexate administration. Spontaneous placental resorption occurred in 87 of 116 cases (75.0%, 95% CI 66.1–82.6%), with a median delay from delivery of 13.5 weeks (range 4–60 weeks). CONCLUSION: Conservative treatment for placenta accreta can help women avoid hysterectomy and involves a low rate of severe maternal morbidity in centers with adequate equipment and resources. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II
Effects of experimentally induced peer-group rejection on children's risk-taking behaviour

This study assessed the immediate causal effect of peer-group rejection on children's state anxiety and self-esteem, as well as their risk-taking behaviour. Children (n = 44) aged 8 and 10 years participated in a minimal group study in which they were accepted or rejected by a peer group, following which their anxiety, self-esteem, and risk-taking behaviour were assessed. The findings revealed that peer rejection caused a substantial increase in the children's anxiety, but did not affect their self-esteem. It was also found that peer status interacted with age to influence the children's risk-taking behaviour. Following peer rejection, children's risk-taking behaviour was significantly greater at 10 compared with 8 years of age. In contrast, following peer acceptance, their risk-taking was significantly lower at 10 compared with 8 years of age. The implications of the findings for research on peer-group rejection and risk-taking behaviour are discussed.
Developing rigid motion constraints for the registration of free-form shapes

We propose a novel method to deal with sphere ambiguity, occlusion, appearance and disappearance of points in image registration. We have developed a number of rigid motion constraints through analysis of geometrical properties of reflected correspondence vectors synthesised into a single coordinate frame. The properties are used as further constraints to eliminate false matches obtained by the iterative closest point criterion. A number of experiments based on both synthetic data and real images demonstrate that the proposed method is accurate, robust, and efficient for the registration of free-form shapes.
Interindividual Differences in Opinions about Distributive Justice

This paper provides some results of an empirical inquiry into the opinions on distributive justice with a representative sample of the Flemish working population. Earlier results, obtained with samples of students, are shown to be robust. Effort is the dominant criterion in opinions about justice in a production context. Profits and losses are treated asymmetrically. A logit analysis reveals that the choice of criteria of justice is influenced by the self-interest of the respondents. However, ethical criteria like the tendency to redistribute income cannot be neglected. Copyright 1991 by WWZ and Helbing & Lichtenhahn Verlag AG
Adolescent–Parent Communication in a Digital World

We examined how family communication patterns (FCPs) are associated with frequency of adolescent–parent communication in person, over the phone, via text message, and via email. Adolescents (N = 195) aged 13 to 18 completed an online survey assessing FCPs and frequency of communication methods used with parents. The results revealed that both frequency and method of communication differed by general FCPs; adolescents in higher conformity families reported less frequent text messaging with mothers than adolescents in lower conformity families, and adolescents in higher conversation families (mothers only) and lower conformity families reported more frequent email communication with parents. Results set the stage for future research to further explore the processes and outcomes of adolescent–parent communication through communication technology.
Superselection sectors in the Ashtekar–Horowitz–Boulware model

We investigate refined algebraic quantization of the constrained Hamiltonian system introduced by Boulware as a simplified version of the Ashtekar–Horowitz model. The dimension of the physical Hilbert space is finite and asymptotes in the semiclassical limit to (2πℏ)−1 times the volume of the reduced phase space. The representation of the physical observable algebra is irreducible for generic potentials but decomposes into irreducible subrepresentations for certain special potentials. The superselection sectors are related to singularities in the reduced phase space and to the rate of divergence in the formal group averaging integral. There is no tunnelling into the classically forbidden region of the unreduced configuration space, but there can be tunnelling between disconnected components of the classically allowed region.