Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
ASSESSING PREVALENCE OF TRAUMA AND THE RISK OF POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER AMONG YOUTHS WITHIN THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY

This study estimates the cumulative occurrence of traumatic events and the risk of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-V) criteria, in a high-risk sample of youth in urban city of Lagos, Nigeria. Participants were interviewed about history of trauma and PTSD in 2011 – 2012 when their mean age was 16.5 years (n = 1, 702). The study revealed that the lifetime occurrence of assaultive violence was 62.5% in males and 33.6% in females. Females had a higher risk of PTSD than males following assaultive violence (odds ratio = 4.0, 95%) confidence interval (2.0 – 8.3), but not following other traumas. The findings of this study of youth in urban city in Lagos reveal (i)A high proportion of males 62.5% had experience one or more events involving assaultive violence: 20.3% had been mugged/threatened with a weapon, and 24.2% had been shot/stabbed. (ii) The overall conditional risk of PTSD was 8.7%; the PTSD risk following assaultive violence was the highest (16.3%). (iii) Females’ conditional risk of PTSD following exposure to assaultive violence was higher than that of males; females’ risk of PTSD did not exceed that of males following other event categories. A comparison of the results from this heterogeneous sample of youth from urban city of Lagos with the results from study of suburban sample in which the same criteria and measures of trauma and PTSD were used suggested the possibility that males’ risk for assaultive violence and females’ risk for PTSD following exposure to assaultive violence might vary by characteristics of the environment especially social environment.
Acute type A aortic dissection: long-term results and reoperations.

OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to report long-term results and incidence of reoperations after surgery for acute type A dissection. METHODS All 232 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for acute type A aortic dissection from 1972 to April 2011 were included. Patient, procedural and follow-up information was obtained from hospital records. RESULTS Mean age was 57.9 years (standard deviation 13.4 years), 64% were male. In 157 patients, the native aortic valve was preserved, 75 underwent aortic valve replacement (valved conduit 49, aortic allograft 16, mechanical prosthesis 8 and bioprosthesis 2). Thirty-, 60- and 90-day mortalities were 18.1% (n = 42), 19.8% (n = 46) and 21.6% (n = 50), and decreased over time. Thirty-day mortality in the period 2007-11 was 12.5%. During follow-up of hospital survivors (mean duration 7.2 years, range 0.2-25.7 years), 64 patients died. Risk factors for 30-day mortality were preoperative resuscitation and longer cardiopulmonary bypass time. The use of circulatory arrest and biological glue was associated with a lower 30-day mortality. Actuarial survival was 53.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 45.8-61.0%) after 10 and 29.3% (95% CI 29.9-48.7%) after 15 years. Late survival was comparable for patients with preserved native valves versus patients with various types of valve replacement. Forty-three patients underwent 47 reoperations; for aortic valve insufficiency in 17 patients (12 native valve, 5 allograft), recurrent aortic dissections or aneurysms in 27 and other cardiac operations in 3 . Actuarial freedom from aortic valve reoperation at 10 years was 85.6% for patients with a preserved native aortic valve, 84.8% after allograft implantation and 100% after prosthetic replacement (Tarone-Ware test P = 0.13). Aortic valve preservation in patients presenting with severe aortic insufficiency was associated with an increased risk of aortic valve reoperation. CONCLUSIONS Acute type A dissection in the current era is associated with a decreasing acceptable operative mortality risk and has a satisfactory long-term survival for hospital survivors. These factors were both involved were associated with a lower 30-day mortality. A substantial proportion of patients will require reoperations on the aortic valve or the aorta.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Cognitive Performance in a Population-Based Sample of the Oldest Old: Impact of Comorbid Dementia

We examined the relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus and cognitive function in a population-based sample of very old people. The sample comprised 338 persons, aged 80-93 years (mean age 83.5 years), of whom 70 persons had type 2 diabetes mellitus. Measures of cognitive functioning included tests of perceptual speed, visuo-spatial ability, inductive reasoning, short-term memory, semantic memory, episodic memory, and the Mini-Mental State Examination. Regression analyses showed that type 2 diabetes mellitus duration was related to test performance across all cognitive domains, with the exception of short-term memory, such that longer duration was associated with lower test performance. When cases with dementia were excluded from the sample, further analyses showed that diabetes duration was not associated with cognitive test performance. This indicates that diabetes is not related to lower cognitive function in the general population of non-demented old people. Diabetes, however, increases the risk for cerebrovascular incidents, like stroke, that may contribute to vascular dementia.
Performance debugging in data centers: Doing more with less

With the increasing scale and complexity of data centers, detecting and localizing performance faults in real-time has become both a pressing need and a challenge. While several approaches for performance debugging in data centers have been proposed, these techniques do not assume any constraints on the availability of operational data needed to detect and localize faults. We argue that collecting such operational data often requires significant instrumentation or intrusiveness, which is difficult to realize in production data centers. Such constraints complicate the deployment of existing techniques or limit their effectiveness in practice. In this paper, we argue that for performance debugging to become practical and effective in realworld systems, one needs to develop techniques that are “more effective” with “less instrumentation and intrusiveness”. We raise several issues and challenges in realizing this vision and present some initial ideas on addressing these challenges.
Global Behaviour Inference using Probabilistic Latent Semantic Analysis

We present a novel framework for inferring global behaviour patterns through modelling behaviour correlations in a wide-area scene and detecting any anomaly in behaviours occurring both locally and globally. Specifically, we propose a semantic scene segmentation model to decompose a wide-area scene into regions where behaviours share similar characteristic and are represented as classes of video events bearing similar features. To model behavioural correlations globally, we investigate both a probabilistic Latent Semantic Analysis (pLSA) model and a two-stage hierarchical pLSA model for global behaviour inference and anomaly detection. The proposed framework is validated by experiments using complex crowded outdoor scenes.
Bio-control in mushroom farming using a Markov network EDA

In this paper we present an application of an Estimation of Distribution Algorithm (EDA) that uses a Markov network probabilistic model. The application is to the problem of bio-control in mushroom farming, a domain which admits bang-bang-control solutions. The problem is multi-objective and uses a weighted fitness function. Previous work on this problem has applied genetic algorithms (GA) with directed intervention crossover schemes aimed at effective biocontrol at an efficient level of intervention. Here we compare these approaches with the EDA Distribution Estimation Using Markov networks (DEUMd). DEUMd constructs a probabilistic model using Markov networks. Our experiments compare the quality of solutions produced by DEUMd with the GA approaches and also reveal interesting differences in the search dynamics that have implications for algorithm design.
Physiological truncation and domain organization of a novel uracil‐DNA‐degrading factor

Uracil in DNA is usually considered to be an error, but it may be used for signaling in Drosophila development via recognition by a novel uracil‐DNA‐degrading factor (UDE) [(Bekesi A et al. (2007) Biochem Biophys Res Commun355, 643–648]. The UDE protein has no detectable similarity to any other uracil‐DNA‐binding factors, and has no structurally or functionally described homologs. Here, a combination of theoretical and experimental analyses reveals the domain organization and DNA‐binding pattern of UDE. Sequence alignments and limited proteolysis with different proteases show extensive protection by DNA at the N‐terminal duplicated conserved motif 1A/1B segment, and a well‐folded domain within the C‐terminal half encompassing conserved motifs 2–4. Theoretical structure prediction suggests that motifs 1A and 1B fold as similar α‐helical bundles, and reveals two conserved positively charged surface patches that may bind DNA. CD spectroscopy also supports the presence of α‐helices in UDE. Full functionality of a physiologically occurring truncated isoform in Tribolium castaneum lacking one copy of the N‐terminal conserved motif 1 is revealed by activity assays of a representative truncated construct of Drosophila melanogaster UDE. Gel filtration and analytical ultracentrifugation results, together with analysis of predicted structural models, suggest a possible dimerization mechanism for preserving functionality of the truncated isoform.
Impact of oceanic circulation on biological carbon storage in the ocean and atmospheric pCO2

We use both theory and ocean biogeochemistry models to examine the role of the soft‐tissue biological pump in controlling atmospheric CO2. We demonstrate that atmospheric CO2 can be simply related to the amount of inorganic carbon stored in the ocean by the soft‐tissue pump, which we term (OCSsoft). OCSsoft is linearly related to the inventory of remineralized nutrient, which in turn is just the total nutrient inventory minus the preformed nutrient inventory. In a system where total nutrient is conserved, atmospheric CO2 can thus be simply related to the global inventory of preformed nutrient. Previous model simulations have explored how changes in the surface concentration of nutrients in deepwater formation regions change the global preformed nutrient inventory. We show that changes in physical forcing such as winds, vertical mixing, and lateral mixing can shift the balance of deepwater formation between the North Atlantic (where preformed nutrients are low) and the Southern Ocean (where they are high). Such changes in physical forcing can thus drive large changes in atmospheric CO2, even with minimal changes in surface nutrient concentration. If Southern Ocean deepwater formation strengthens, the preformed nutrient inventory and thus atmospheric CO2 increase. An important consequence of these new insights is that the relationship between surface nutrient concentrations, biological export production, and atmospheric CO2 is more complex than previously predicted. Contrary to conventional wisdom, we show that OCSsoft can increase and atmospheric CO2 decrease, while surface nutrients show minimal change and export production decreases.
Chromosomal Speciation in the Genomics Era: Disentangling Phylogenetic Evolution of Rock-wallabies

The association of chromosome rearrangements (CRs) with speciation is well established, and there is a long history of theory and evidence relating to “chromosomal speciation. ” Genomic sequencing has the potential to provide new insights into how reorganization of genome structure promotes divergence, and in model systems has demonstrated reduced gene flow in rearranged segments. However, there are limits to what we can understand from a small number of model systems, which each only tell us about one episode of chromosomal speciation. Progressing from patterns of association between chromosome (and genic) change, to understanding processes of speciation requires both comparative studies across diverse systems and integration of genome-scale sequence comparisons with other lines of evidence. Here, we showcase a promising example of chromosomal speciation in a non-model organism, the endemic Australian marsupial genus Petrogale. We present initial phylogenetic results from exon-capture that resolve a history of divergence associated with extensive and repeated CRs. Yet it remains challenging to disentangle gene tree heterogeneity caused by recent divergence and gene flow in this and other such recent radiations. We outline a way forward for better integration of comparative genomic sequence data with evidence from molecular cytogenetics, and analyses of shifts in the recombination landscape and potential disruption of meiotic segregation and epigenetic programming. In all likelihood, CRs impact multiple cellular processes and these effects need to be considered together, along with effects of genic divergence. Understanding the effects of CRs together with genic divergence will require development of more integrative theory and inference methods. Together, new data and analysis tools will combine to shed light on long standing questions of how chromosome and genic divergence promote speciation.
Abstraction of man-made shapes

Man-made objects are ubiquitous in the real world and in virtual environments. While such objects can be very detailed, capturing every small feature, they are often identified and characterized by a small set of defining curves. Compact, abstracted shape descriptions based on such curves are often visually more appealing than the original models, which can appear to be visually cluttered. We introduce a novel algorithm for abstracting three-dimensional geometric models using characteristic curves or contours as building blocks for the abstraction. Our method robustly handles models with poor connectivity, including the extreme cases of polygon soups, common in models of man-made objects taken from online repositories. In our algorithm, we use a two-step procedure that first approximates the input model using a manifold, closed envelope surface and then extracts from it a hierarchical abstraction curve network along with suitable normal information. The constructed curve networks form a compact, yet powerful, representation for the input shapes, retaining their key shape characteristics while discarding minor details and irregularities.
BEYOND HELPING: DO OTHER-ORIENTED VALUES HAVE BROADER IMPLICATIONS IN ORGANIZATIONS?

On the basis of H. A. Simon (1990), the value of concern for others is proposed to derive from a process whereby individuals accept social information without carefully weighing its personal consequences. This value may thus reflect a sensitivity to social information that is unrelated to helping others. In 3 studies examining individuals' reactions to performance feedback, the reactions of persons high in concern for others were less contingent than those of persons low in concern for others on the personal costs and benefits of accepting and responding to feedback. In contrast, persons low in concern for others were likely to reject feedback that did not result in valued personal outcomes. Because many models of organizational behavior maintain that individuals act on the basis of their evaluation of personal consequences, this value may relate to a wide range of organizational phenomena.
‘All Over Now?’ The Ongoing Relational Consequences of Domestic Abuse through Children's Contact Arrangements

The issue of child contact and domestic abuse has gained significant attention in recent years. Research highlights that domestic abuse may not end at the point of separation and the presence of children has been found to be a risk factor for continued abuse. This has raised questions about whether contact in the context of domestic abuse is safe for children and for women. This article presents findings from a qualitative study with 18 children aged eight to 14 years and 16 mothers who had experienced domestic abuse in Scotland. Participants were recruited from domestic abuse support services in both the voluntary and statutory sectors. The research found evidence of the continued abuse of women and children following parental separation that was linked to contact arrangements. Children's contact with their non-resident fathers often took place amidst an absence of parental communication and cooperation, which was traced to domestic abuse. This left children responsible for navigating the complex and charged dynamic of their parents' relationship. Children reported this negatively, especially for their relationships with their parents. The article, therefore, highlights the importance of considering the impact of the on-going relational consequences of domestic abuse when considering children's contact arrangements. ‘The presence of children has been found to be a risk factor for continued abuse’ Key Practitioner Messages Domestic abuse may continue following parental separation, with children's contact becoming a central focus for continued abuse. Low levels of parental communication and cooperation following separation may be traced to domestic abuse. Poor parental relations negatively affect child contact. ‘Domestic abuse may continue following parental separation, with children's contact becoming a central focus for continued abuse’
Genetic Variant in MTRR, but Not MTR, Is Associated with Risk of Congenital Heart Disease: An Integrated Meta-Analysis

Background Congenital heart disease (CHD) is one of the most common birth defects and the leading cause of deaths among individuals with congenital structural abnormalities worldwide. Both Methionine synthase reductase (MTRR) and Methionine synthase (MTR) are key enzymes involved in the metabolic pathway of homocysteine, which are significant in the earlier period embryogenesis, particularly in the cardiac development. Evidence is mounting for the association between MTRR A66G (rs1801394)/MTR A2756G (rs1805087) and the CHD risk, but results are controversial. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis integrating case-control and transmitted disequilibrium test (TDT) studies to obtain more precise estimate of the associations of these two variants with the CHD risk. Methods To combine case-control and TDT studies, we used the Catmap package of R software to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results A total of 9 reports were included in the final meta-analysis. Eight of them comprised of 914 cases, 964 controls, and 441 families that were germane to MTRR A66G polymorphism; and 4 reports comprised of 250 cases, 205 controls, and 53 families that were relevant to MTR A2756G polymorphism. The pooled OR for the MTRR 66 G allele versus A allele was 1.35 (95% CI = 1.14–1.59, P<0.001, P heterogeneity = 0.073). For MTR A2756G, the G allele conferred a pooled OR of 1.10 (95% CI = 0.78–1.57, P = 0.597, P heterogeneity = 0.173) compared with the A allele. Sensitivity analyses were carried out to asses the effects of each individual study on the pooled OR, indicating the stability of the outcome. Moreover, positive results were also obtained in all subgroups stratified by study type and ethnicity except the subgroup of TDT studies in MTRR A66G variant. Conclusions This meta-analysis demonstrated a suggestive result that the A66G variant in MTRR, but not the A2756G in MTR, may be associated with the increase of CHD risks.
Sickle Cell Anemia: Targeting the Role of Fetal Hemoglobin in Therapy

Sickle cell anemia results from the single amino acid substitution of valine for glutamic acid in the β-chain owing to a nucleotide defect that causes the production of abnormal β-chains in hemoglobin S. Abnormal hemoglobin chains form polymers in the deoxygenated state, leading to the characteristic sickle cells. The polymerization of deoxygenated hemoglobin S accounts for the pathologic changes in sickle cell disease. The main-stay of therapy in sickle cell disease aims to reduce the amount of sickled hemoglobin present through the prevention of polymerization and reversal of this process. One way of discouraging polymerization is to increase the level of fetal hemoglobin, which because of its high oxygen affinity, does not participate in the polymerization process. Fetal hemoglobin production may be induced pharmacologically or by the use of gene therapy and genetic engineering techniques.
Certain Privilege: Rethinking White Agency

In a class discussion about the subtle effects of racism on the ability of people of color to reasonably navigate the world, one black woman said of such situations, “you never know. ” While another black woman responded, “if you never know, you do know,” other women of color preferred the initial observation and held that their uneasiness, particularly in situations where white people were the numerical majority, hinged on not knowing, as opposed to knowing, what the contours of interactions would be. The uncertain situations these women describe are not easy situations in which to be, but I will argue that suspicion, uneasiness, and careful interpretive strategies can be useful to white people attempting to work against racism. In part, what I am suggesting is that there is a pedagogical use to the kind of “never knowing” my student raised. By centering “not knowing” as opposed to the more usual pedagogical goal of “knowing,” we might begin to work against the place of white privilege in defining what is useful to know and what should be known. Moving the burden of discomfort and uncertainty onto white people is a better strategy for confronting the problems of racism than concentrating on making white people comfortable in the struggle against racism.
Reduced dendritic spine density on cerebral cortical pyramidal neurons in schizophrenia

OBJECTIVE A pilot study of the density of dendritic spines on pyramidal neurons in layer III of human temporal and frontal cerebral neocortex in schizophrenia. METHODS Postmortem material from a group of eight prospectively diagnosed schizophrenic patients, five archive schizophrenic patients, 11 non-schizophrenic controls, and one patient with schizophrenia-like psychosis, thought to be due to substance misuse, was impregnated with a rapid Golgi method. Spines were counted on the dendrites of pyramidal neurons in temporal and frontal association areas, of which the soma was in layer III (which take part in corticocortical connectivity) and which met strict criteria for impregnation quality. Altogether 25 blocks were studied in the schizophrenic group and 21 in the controls. If more than one block was examined from a single area, the counts for that area were averaged. All measurements were made blind: diagnoses were only disclosed by a third party after measurements were completed. Possible confounding affects of coexisiting Alzheimer’s disease were taken into account, as were the effects of age at death and postmortem interval. RESULTS There was a significant (p<0.001) reduction in the numerical density of spines in schizophrenia (276/mm in control temporal cortex and 112/mm in schizophrenic patients, and 299 and 101 respectively in the frontal cortex). An analysis of variance, taking out effects of age at death and postmortem interval, which might have explained the low spine density for some of the schizophrenic patients, did not affect the significance of the results. CONCLUSION The results support the concept of there being a defect in the fine structure of dendrites of pyramidal neurons, involving loss of spines, in schizophrenia and may help to explain the loss of cortical volume without loss of neurons in this condition, although the effect of neuroleptic drugs cannot be ruled out.