Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Negative Effects of Total Gastrectomy on Bone Tissue Metabolism and Volumetric Bone Mineral Density (vBMD) of Lumbar Spine in 1-Year Study in Men

AbstractGastrectomy induces severe osteoporosis in humans but its quantitative scale within trabecular and cortical compartments was not estimated. The aim of the study was to determine changes of volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) in lumbar vertebrae (L1–L4) and biochemical bone metabolism markers in serum of patients 1 year after total gastrectomy. The control group consisted of patients (N = 8) subjected to abdominal surgery due to cardiospasmus. Total gastrectomy was performed in the experimental group (N = 6). Volumetric bone mineral density of trabecular and cortical bone of lumbar spine was measured before (baseline) and 1 year after the gastric surgery using the quantitative computed tomography method. Serum concentrations of insulin, insulin-like growth factor-1, tyroxine, interleukin-6, C-terminal telopeptides of type II collagen and bone formation, and resorption markers were determined at baseline and 1 year later, using ELISA, EIA, and IEMA methods.Total gastrectomy induced significant decrease of vBMD values, up to 16.8% and 10.0%, within the trabecular and cortical bone compartments of lumbar spine (P < 0.05). These negative changes of vBMD were associated with significantly increased serum concentration of bone resorption markers such as deoxypyridinoline, pyridinoline, and C-terminal telopeptides of type I collagen, by 13.5%, 32.2%, and 121.5%, respectively (P < 0.05). Neither vBMD nor biochemical bone turnover markers and hormone concentrations were influenced in the control patients.Dramatic bone loss during the first year in gastrectomized patients has proven dynamic osteoporosis progress indicating an importance of treatment interventions in these patients with emphasis on inhibition of intensive bone resorption processes.
Trends in Education Access and Financing during the Transition in Central And Eastern Europe. Social Challenges of Transition Series.

Education has emerged as an essential component of the transition to a market economy in Central and Eastern Europe. Although the countries of the region inherited broadly accessible education systems, the legacies of central planning have constrained the systems from fully adjusting to market economies. This study examines empirical trends in access to and financing of education in nine Central and East European countries by drawing on the findings of a World Bank project that examined the social risks facing people and the policy responses taken by governments since 1989. Chapters address access and participation, the labor market, financing, and staff in the education sector.
Role of Traditional Risk Factors and Antiretroviral Drugs in the Incidence of Chronic Kidney Disease, ANRS CO3 Aquitaine Cohort, France, 2004–2012

Objective To examine the role of antiretroviral drugs (ART), HIV-related and traditional risk factors on the incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in HIV-infected patients. Design Prospective hospital-based cohort of HIV-infected patients from 2004 to 2012. Methods CKD was defined using MDRD equation as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) less than 60 ml/mn/1.73 m2 at 2 consecutive measurements ≥3 months apart. Poisson regression models were used to study determinants of CKD either measured at baseline or updated. ART exposure was classified as ever or never. We additionally tested the role of tenofovir (TDF), whether or not prescribed concomitantly with a Protease Inhibitor (PI), taking into account the cumulative exposure to the drug. Results 4,350 patients (74% men) with baseline eGFR>60 ml/mn/1.73 m2 were followed for a median of 5.8 years. At the end of follow-up, 96% had received ART, one third of them (35%) jointly received TDF and a PI. Average incidence rate of CKD was 0.95% person-years of follow-up. Incidence of CKD was higher among women (IRR = 2.2), older patients (>60 y vs <45 y: IRR = 2.5 and 45–60 y: IRR = 1.7), those with diabetes (IRR = 1.9), high blood pressure (IRR = 1.5), hyperlipidemia (IRR = 1.5), AIDS stage (IRR = 1.4), low baseline eGFR (IRR = 15.8 for 6090 and IRR = 7.1 for 70500/mm3 (IRR = 2.5), and exposure to TDF (IRR = 2.0). Exposure to TDF was even strongly associated with CKD when co-administered with PIs (IRR = 3.1 vs 1.3 when not, p<0,001). A higher risk of CKD was found when tenofovir exposure was >12 months [IRR = 3.0 with joint PIs vs 1.3 without (p<0.001)]. A vast majority of those developing CKD (76.6%) had a baseline eGFR between 60 and 80 ml/mn/1.73 m2. Conclusion In patients with eGFR between 60 and 80 mL/min/1.73 m2, a thorough control of CKD risk factors is warranted. The use of TDF, especially when co-administered with PIs, should be mentioned as a relative contraindication in presence of at least one of these risk factors.
STELLAR MASS DEPENDENT DISK DISPERSAL

We use published optical spectral and infrared (IR) excess data from nine young clusters and associations to study the stellar mass dependent dispersal of circumstellar disks. All clusters older than ∼3 Myr show a decrease in disk fraction with increasing stellar mass for solar to higher mass stars. This result is significant at about the 1σ level in each cluster. For the complete set of clusters we reject the null hypothesis—that solar and intermediate-mass stars lose their disks at the same rate—with 95%–99.9% confidence. To interpret this behavior, we investigate the impact of grain growth, binary companions, and photoevaporation on the evolution of disk signatures. Changes in grain growth timescales at fixed disk temperature may explain why early-type stars with IR excesses appear to evolve faster than their later-type counterparts. Little evidence that binary companions affect disk evolution suggests that photoevaporation is the more likely mechanism for disk dispersal. A simple photoevaporation model provides a good fit to the observed disk fractions for solar and intermediate-mass stars. Although the current mass-dependent disk dispersal signal is not strong, larger and more complete samples of clusters with ages of 3–5 Myr can improve the significance and provide better tests of theoretical models. In addition, the orbits of extra-solar planets can constrain models of disk dispersal and migration. We suggest that the signature of stellar mass dependent disk dispersal due to photoevaporation may be present in the orbits of observed extra-solar planets. Planets orbiting hosts more massive than ∼1.6 M☉ may have larger orbits because the disks in which they formed were dispersed before they could migrate.
PROCEEDINGS of the HUMAN FACTORS AND ERGONOMICS SOCIETY 45th ANNUAL MEETING- 2001 USING COGNITIVE TASK ANALYSIS (CTA) TO SEED DESIGN CONCEPTS FOR INTELLIGENCE ANALYSTS UNDER DATA OVERLOAD

This paper describes how a Cognitive Task Analysis (CTA) was used to jumpstart the exploration of useful design aids to combat data overload in intelligence analysis. During a simulated analysis task, we observed how professional intelligence analysts were vulnerable to making inaccurate statements when they were under time pressure and working in a topic area outside their area of expertise. From these observations, we generated design recommendations and criteria for evaluating the usefulness of any effort aimed at reducing data overload. Then, we used CTA insights to trigger the development of modular design concepts, or "design seeds," that leverage advances in machine processing to address vulnerabilities. Nine design seeds were integrated into a "Visual Narratives" workspace visualization concept. Feedback about the usefulness of the design seeds was obtained during an elicitation session following an animated fly-through, or "Ani-mock," demonstration.
Ex-day Pricing and Post-Announcement Drift

This study examines share price and trading volumes data around the date of cash dividend distributions made by a sample of companies listed on The London Stock Exchange. The ex-day share price behaviour is modelled to take account of the personal taxes of long-term investors as well as the transaction costs and holding risks of short-term traders. The post-announcement drift is linked to the behaviour of share prices around the exdividend dates. The results show that the abnormal price performance and abnormal volume persist throughout the announcement to ex-dividend day interval. However, the pre-ex-day abnormal performance is not a function of the two factors, dividend yield and transaction costs, linked to short-term trading, but, rather, to the magnitude of dividend changes. The paper concludes that the impact of short-term trading documented in the US market is likely to be overestimated and that, in the UK, the legislation on short-term trading is still preventing short-term traders from capturing dividends and/or ex-day returns are not high enough to compensate these traders from the implied transaction costs. Furthermore, the results imply that, the post-announcement drift in share prices makes short-term trading hypothesis not directly testable. This Version: 10 March 1999
Wireless Energy Transfer System with Multiple Coils via Coupled Magnetic Resonances

A general equivalent circuit model is developed for a wireless energy transfer system composed of multiple coils via coupled magnetic resonances. To verify the developed model, four types of wireless energy transfer systems are fabricated, measured, and compared with simulation results. To model a system composed of n‐coils, node equations are built in the form of an n‐by‐n matrix, and the equivalent circuit model is established using an electric design automation tool. Using the model, we can simulate systems with multiple coils, power sources, and loads. Moreover, coupling constants are extracted as a function of the distance between two coils, and we can predict the characteristics of a system having coils at an arbitrary location. We fabricate four types of systems with relay coils, two operating frequencies, two power sources, and the function of characteristic impedance conversion. We measure the characteristics of all systems and compare them with the simulation results. The flexibility of the developed model enables us to design and optimize a complicated system consisting of many coils.
Self-harming behaviors in prison: a comparison of suicidal processes, self-injurious behaviors, and mixed events

ABSTRACT Self-harming behaviors occurring in prison disproportionately consume resources and cause considerable disruption. To date, theoretical paradigms have explained self-injurious behaviors and suicidal processes either via a continuum or dichotomy of self-harm. This current study examines all documented acts of self-harm (n = 1,158) occurring in South Carolina’s 28 prisons over a 50-month period. We test and find support for a tripartite schema of self-harm; differentiated with regard to suicidal processes, self-injurious behaviors, and a ‘mixed group‘ of self-harming behaviors. These groups of behaviors were distinct with regard to situational variables (i.e. body part targeted, injury severity) as well as institutional responses (i.e., medical treatment needed, employment of suicide protocols). Findings indicate that self-injurious behaviors are likely to result in physical injury and/or hospitalizations.
Nonlinear homogeneous eigenvalue problem in $R^N$: nonstandard variational approach

The nonlinear eigenvalue problem for p-Laplacian $$ \cases - \operatorname{div} (a(x) |\nabla u|^{p-2} \nabla u) = \lambda g (x) |u|^{p-2} u \text{ in } \Bbb R^N, \ u >0 \text{ in } \Bbb R^N, \mathop{\lim}\limits_{|x|\to \infty} u(x) = 0, \endcases $$ is considered. We assume that $1 < p < N$ and that $g$ is indefinite weight function. The existence and $C^{1, \alpha}$-regularity of the weak solution is proved.
Learning Objects: a New Paradigm for E-Learning Resource Development for Secondary Schools in Tanzania

The Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), and the Wide World Web (WWW) have fundamentally altered the practice of teaching and learning world wide. Many universities, organizations, colleges and schools are trying to apply the benefits of the emerging ICT. In the early nineties the term learning object was introduced into the instructional technology vernacular; the idea being that educational resources could be broken into modular components for later combination by instructors, learners, and eventually computes into larger structures that would support learning (1). However in many developing countries, the use of ICT is still in its infancy stage and the concept of learning object is quite new. This paper outlines the learning object design considerations for developing countries depending on learning environment.
The Role of Natural Killer Cells in the Defense against Listeriamonocytogenes Lessons from a Rat Model

Ly49 receptors in rodents, like killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors in humans, regulate natural killer (NK) cell activity. Although inhibitory Ly49 receptors clearly recognize classical major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC-I) molecules, the role for the activating Ly49 receptors has been less well understood. Here, we discuss recent data from a rat model for listeriosis. Rats depleted of NK cells, or more specifically the Ly49 receptor-bearing cells, showed increased bacterial loads in their spleen. Athymic nude rats with no functional T cells but increased numbers of Ly49-expressing NK cells were more resistant to infection, indicating a central role of NK cells in early immune defense against Listeria in this species. Listeria infection of macrophages or enteric epithelial cells led to upregulation of MHC-I, including nonclassical (Ib) molecules not regularly recognized by T cells. We have shown that activating Ly49 receptors are more efficiently stimulated when binding to upregulated class Ib antigens on infected cells. From this we postulate that activating Ly49 receptors may have a sentinel function in the early immune response against Listeria in detecting diseased cells ‘flagged’ by increased MHC-Ib expression.
The average cumulative risks of breast and ovarian cancer for carriers of mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 attending genetic counseling units in Spain.

PURPOSE It is not clear that the published estimates of the breast and ovarian cancer penetrances of mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 can be used in genetic counseling in countries such as Spain, where the incidence of breast cancer in the general population is considerably lower, the prevalence of BRCA2 mutations seems to be higher, and a distinct spectrum of recurrent mutations exists for both genes. We aimed to estimate these penetrances for women attending genetic counseling units in Spain. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN We collected phenotype and genotype data on 155 BRCA1 and 164 BRCA2 mutation carrier families from 12 centers across the country. Average age-specific cumulative risks of breast cancer and ovarian cancer were estimated using a modified segregation analysis method. RESULTS The estimated average cumulative risk of breast cancer to age 70 years was estimated to be 52% [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 26-69%] for BRCA1 mutation carriers and 47% (95% CI, 29-60%) for BRCA2 mutation carriers. The corresponding estimates for ovarian cancer were 22% (95% CI, 0-40%) and 18% (95% CI, 0-35%), respectively. There was some evidence (two-sided P = 0.09) that 330A>G (R71G) in BRCA1 may have lower breast cancer penetrance. CONCLUSIONS These results are consistent with those from a recent meta-analysis of practically all previous penetrance studies, suggesting that women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations attending genetic counseling services in Spain have similar risks of breast and ovarian cancer to those published for other Caucasian populations. Carriers should be fully informed of their mutation- and age-specific risks to make appropriate decisions regarding prophylactic interventions such as oophorectomy.
Selectivity for Grasp in Local Field Potential and Single Neuron Activity Recorded Simultaneously from M1 and F5 in the Awake Macaque Monkey

The selectivity for object-specific grasp in local field potentials (LFPs) was investigated in two awake macaque monkeys trained to observe, reach out, grasp and hold one of six objects presented in a pseudorandom order. Simultaneous, multiple electrode recordings were made from the hand representations of primary motor cortex (M1) and ventral premotor cortex (area F5). LFP activity was well developed during the observation and hold periods of the task, especially in the beta-frequency range (15–30 Hz). Selectivity of LFP activity for upcoming grasp was rare in the observation period, but common during stable grasp. The majority of M1 (90 of 92) and F5 (81of 97) sites showed selectivity for at least one frequency, which was maximal in the beta range but also present at higher frequencies (30–50 Hz). When the LFP power associated with grasp of a specific object was large in the beta-frequency range, it was usually of low power in the higher 30–50 Hz range, and vice-versa. Simple hook grips involving flexion of one or more fingers were associated with large beta power, whereas more complex grips involving the thumb (e.g., precision grip) were associated with small beta power. At many M1 sites, there was a highly significant inverse relationship between the tuning of spikes (including those of identified pyramidal tract neurons) and beta-range LFP for different grasps, whereas a positive correlation was found at higher frequencies (30–50 Hz). High levels of beta LFP and low pyramidal cell spike rate may reflect a common mechanism used to control motor set during different types of grasp.
Research Techniques for Augmented Reality Experiences

We contrast the methods and techniques used by Augmented Reality and museum studies, and discuss the history and development of research in both fields. With this in mind, we follow with a more detailed look at the techniques involved in this program of research — ethnography in particular — and the associated theoretical considerations. The practical implications of future research are then considered with reference to previous work, and finally a discussion of the validity and target of analysis. Social Interaction at the Exhibit Face Research conducted in museums varies wildly in approach, but is foremostly concerned with the evaluation of existing exhibitions and collections rather than the development of new displays to study. Directly in contrast to this is research into Augmented Reality (AR), which typically consists of the construction of experimental systems, but with little detailed reflection on the process by which people use these systems. In this section we shall briefly examine the history and approaches used by these two areas.
Pathogenic Mechanisms Shared between Psoriasis and Cardiovascular Disease

Psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, a hallmark of which is atherosclerosis. The objective of this study was to review the pertinent literature and highlight pathogenic mechanisms shared between psoriasis and atherosclerosis in an effort to advocate early therapeutic or preventive measures. We conducted a review of the current literature available from several biomedical search databases focusing on the developmental processes common between psoriasis and atherosclerosis. Our results revealed that the pathogenic mechanisms shared between the two diseases converged onto “inflammation” phenomenon. Within the lymph nodes, antigen-presenting cells activate naive T-cells to increase expression of LFA-1 following which activated T-cells migrate to blood vessel and adhere to endothelium. Extravasation occurs mediated by LFA-1 and ICAM-1 (or CD2 and LFA-3) and activated T-cells interact with dendritic cells (and macrophages and keratinocytes in psoriasis or smooth muscle cells in atherosclerosis). These cells further secrete chemokines and cytokines that contribute to the inflammatory environment, resulting in the formation of psoriatic plaque or atherosclerotic plaque. Additionally, some studies indicated clinical improvement in psoriasis condition with treatment of associated hyperlipidemia. In conclusion, therapeutic or preventive strategies that both reduce hyperlipidemia and suppress inflammation provide potentially useful approaches in the management of both diseases.
Exploratory Research into Potential Practical uses of Next Generation Wearable Wireless Voice-Activated Augmented Reality ( VAAR ) Devices by Building Construction Site Personnel

The miniaturization and increased functionalities of next generation augmented reality (AR) devices, as well as advances in computing technology in the form of cloud computing, is moving the building construction industry closer to adoption of AR devices for use by building construction site personnel. There is therefore a need to understand the potential practical uses of next generation AR devices in building construction site work. A conceptualization of a next generation AR device suitable for use by site personnel is provided. Based on this conceptualization, a focus group of industry professionals and postgraduate researchers have determined that potential practical uses of such a device include: easy access to digital information to support work tasks, live streaming of videos of tasks being worked on, and easy creation of a repository of as-built photographs and videos. Potential applied research studies that will aid in the adoption of next generation AR devices by site personnel include those associated with usability testing, labor productivity measurement and improvement, and suitability testing based on nature of work tasks. The major implication of this exploratory study is that its findings will help to bridge the gap between next generation AR devices and practical use in building construction.
Pacific Sea Surface Temperatures in the Twentieth Century: An Evolution-Centric Analysis of Variability and Trend

Abstract A consistent analysis of natural variability and secular trend in Pacific SSTs in the twentieth century is presented. By focusing on spatial and temporal recurrence, but without imposition of periodicity constraints, this single analysis discriminates between biennial, ENSO, and decadal variabilities, leading to refined evolutionary descriptions, and between these natural variability modes and secular trend, all without advance filtering (and potential aliasing) of the SST record. SST anomalies of all four seasons are analyzed together using the extended-EOF technique. Canonical ENSO variability is encapsulated in two modes that depict the growth (east-to-west along the equator) and decay (near-simultaneous amplitude loss across the basin) phases. Another interannual mode, energetic in recent decades, is shown linked to the west-to-east SST development seen in post–climate shift ENSOs: the noncanonical ENSO mode. The mode is closely related to Chiang and Vimont’s meridional mode, and leads to som.
Career Pathways of Chief Student Affairs Officers: Making Room at the Top for Females and Minorities.

This study profiles female and minority chief student affairs officers by comparing and contrasting career characteristics between males and females and between minorities and non-minorities. Female CSAOs differed significantly from males on seven variables: appointed at a younger age attained less education; moved to the top from different-titled previous positions; had different titles; had less full-time experience in student affairs; had less experience in previous position; and were more likely to be in schools under 1,000. There were no differences between minorities and non-minorities on any of the variables.