Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The implications of population growth and urbanization for climate change

This paper considers the implications of population growth and urbanization for climate change. It emphasizes that it is not the growth in (urban or rural) populations that drives the growth in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions but rather, the growth in consumers and in their levels of consumption. A significant proportion of the world’s urban (and rural) populations have consumption levels that are so low that they contribute little or nothing to such emissions. If the lifetime contribution to GHG emissions of a person added to the world’s population varies by a factor of more than 1,000 depending on the circumstances into which they are born and their life choices, it is misleading to see population growth as the driver of climate change. A review of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions levels for nations, and how they changed between 1980 and 2005 (and also between 1950 and 1980), shows little association between nations with rapid population growth and nations with high GHG emissions and rapid GHG emissions growth; indeed, it is mostly nations with very low emissions per person (and often only slowly growing emissions) that have had the highest population growth rates. The paper also discusses how in the much-needed planning for global emissions reduction, provision must be made to allow low-income, low-consumption households with GHG emissions per person below the global “fair share” level to increase their consumption.
Amines are likely to enhance neutral and ion-induced sulfuric acid-water nucleation in the atmosphere more effectively than ammonia

We have studied the structure and formation thermodynamics of dimer clusters containing H 2 SO 4 or HSO 4 − together with ammonia and seven different amines possibly present in the atmosphere, using the high-level ab initio methods RI-MP2 and RI-CC2. As expected from e.g. proton affinity data, the binding of all studied amine-H 2 SO 4 complexes is significantly stronger than that of NH 3 •H 2 SO 4 , while most amine-HSO 4 − complexes are only somewhat more strongly bound than NH 3 •HSO 4 − . Further calculations on larger cluster structures containing dimethylamine or ammonia together with two H 2 SO 4 molecules or one H 2 SO 4 molecule and one HSO 4 − ion demonstrate that amines, unlike ammonia, significantly assist the growth of not only neutral but also ionic clusters along the H 2 SO 4 co-ordinate. A sensitivity analysis indicates that the difference in complexation free energies for amine- and ammonia-containing clusters is large enough to overcome the mass-balance effect caused by the fact that the concentration of amines in the atmosphere is probably 2 or 3 orders of magnitude lower than that of ammonia. This implies that amines might be more important than ammonia in enhancing neutral and especially ion-induced sulfuric acid-water nucleation in the atmosphere.
Neural Correlates of Own Name and Own Face Detection in Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition clinically characterized by social interaction and communication difficulties. To date, the majority of research efforts have focused on brain mechanisms underlying the deficits in interpersonal social cognition associated with ASD. Recent empirical and theoretical work has begun to reveal evidence for a reduced or even absent self-preference effect in patients with ASD. One may hypothesize that this is related to the impaired attentional processing of self-referential stimuli. The aim of our study was to test this hypothesis. We investigated the neural correlates of face and name detection in ASD. Four categories of face/name stimuli were used: own, close-other, famous, and unknown. Event-related potentials were recorded from 62 electrodes in 23 subjects with ASD and 23 matched control subjects. P100, N170, and P300 components were analyzed. The control group clearly showed a significant self-preference effect: higher P300 amplitude to the presentation of own face and own name than to the close-other, famous, and unknown categories, indicating preferential attentional engagement in processing of self-related information. In contrast, detection of both own and close-other's face and name in the ASD group was associated with enhanced P300, suggesting similar attention allocation for self and close-other related information. These findings suggest that attention allocation in the ASD group is modulated by the personal significance factor, and that the self-preference effect is absent if self is compared to close-other. These effects are similar for physical and non-physical aspects of the autistic self. In addition, lateralization of face and name processing is attenuated in ASD, suggesting atypical brain organization.
Efficient motion estimation algorithm for MPEG-4 to H.264 transcoder

In this paper, we propose a fast ME (motion estimation) algorithm for MPEG-4 to H.264 transcoder. The transcoding speed is affected dominantly by the computational complexity of encoder part in transcoder, where ME module of H.264 encoder has high complexity due to considering 7 modes. In order to increase the speed of transcoding between MPEG-4 and H.264, we use 3 PMVs (predicted motion vectors) and the mode information of MBs (macroblocks) provided from the decoder part of transcoder. Since the proposed 3 PMVs are very close to an optimal motion vector, and we consider only some restricted modes according to the MB information transferred from decoder part, the proposed scheme can speed up the transcoding procedure without loss of image quality. We show simulation results that CPU time consumed by the proposed scheme has been reduced significantly while the transcoded video quality remains unchanged.
Travel route recommendation using geotags in photo sharing sites

The ability to create geotagged photos enables people to share their personal experiences as tourists at specific locations and times. Assuming that the collection of each photographer's geotagged photos is a sequence of visited locations, photo-sharing sites are important sources for gathering the location histories of tourists. By following their location sequences, we can find representative and diverse travel routes that link key landmarks. In this paper, we propose a travel route recommendation method that makes use of the photographers' histories as held by Flickr. Recommendations are performed by our photographer behavior model, which estimates the probability of a photographer visiting a landmark. We incorporate user preference and present location information into the probabilistic behavior model by combining topic models and Markov models. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method using a real-life dataset holding information from 71,718 photographers taken in the United States in terms of the prediction accuracy of travel behavior.
Consistent Simulations of Substellar Atmospheres and Nonequilibrium Dust Cloud Formation

We aim to understand cloud formation in substellar objects. We combined our nonequilibrium, stationary cloud model DRIFT (seed formation, growth, evaporation, gravitational settling, element conservation) with the general-purpose model atmosphere code PHOENIX (radiative transfer, hydrostatic equilibrium, mixing-length theory, chemical equilibrium) in order to consistently calculate cloud formation and radiative transfer with their feedback on convection and gas-phase depletion. We calculate the complete 1D model atmosphere structure and the chemical details of the cloud layers. The DRIFT-PHOENIX models enable the first stellar atmosphere simulation that is based on the actual cloud formation process. The resulting (T, p) -profiles differ considerably from the previous limiting PHOENIX cases DUSTY and COND. A tentative comparison with observations demonstrates that the determination of effective temperatures based on simple cloud models has to be applied with care. Based on our new models, we suggest a mean Teff = 1800 K for the L dwarf twin-binary system DENIS J0205–1159, which is up to 500 K hotter than suggested in the literature. We show transition spectra for gas-giant planets which form dust clouds in their atmospheres and evaluate photometric fluxes for a WASP-1 type system.
Perforin and Fas Act Together in the Induction of Apoptosis, and Both Are Critical in the Clearance of Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus Infection

ABSTRACT In this report we questioned the current view that the two principal cytotoxic pathways, the exocytosis and the Fas ligand (FasL)/Fas-mediated pathway, have largely nonoverlapping biological roles. For this purpose we have analyzed the response of mice that lack Fas as well as granzyme A (gzmA) and gzmB (FasxgzmAxB−/−) to infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV). We show that FasxgzmAxB−/− mice, in contrast to B6, Fas−/−, and gzmAxB−/− mice, do not recover from a primary infection with LCMV, in spite of the expression of comparable numbers of LCMV-immune and gamma interferon-producing cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) in all mouse strains tested. Ex vivo-derived FasxgzmAxB−/− CTL lacked nucleolytic activity and expressed reduced cytolytic activity compared to B6 and Fas−/− CTL. Furthermore, virus-immune CTL with functional FasL and perforin (gzmAxB−/−) are more potent in causing target cell apoptosis in vitro than those expressing FasL alone (perfxgzmAxB−/−). This synergistic effect of perforin on Fas-mediated nucleolysis of target cells is indicated by the fact that, compared to perfxgzmAxB−/− CTL, gzmAxB−/− CTL induced (i) an accelerated decrease in mitochondrial transmembrane potential, (ii) increased generation of reactive oxygen species, and (iii) accelerated phosphatidylserine exposure on plasma membranes. We conclude that perforin does not mediate recovery from LCMV by itself but plays a vital role in both gzmA/B and FasL/Fas-mediated CTL activities, including apoptosis and control of viral infections.
Personality traits of the relatives of autistic probands

Background. There is substantial evidence that the genetic liability to autism confers a risk for a range of more subtle social and communication impairments, as well as stereotyped and repetitive behaviours. Recent research suggests that increased expression of particular personality traits may be a manifestation of the liability to autism. Methods. To investigate this we examined the personality traits of the adult relatives of 99 autistic and 36 Down's syndrome probands, using the informant version of the Modified Personality Assessment Schedule. Results. There was significantly increased expression of the traits anxious, impulsive, aloof, shy, over-sensitive, irritable and eccentric among the autism relatives with evidence of different profiles for male and female relatives and for parents and adult children. Factor analysis revealed three broad groups of traits, two of which (‘withdrawn’ and ‘difficult’) appeared to reflect impairments in social functioning and a third group of anxiety related traits (‘tense’). Each of these factors differed in their pattern of associations with the factor we termed ‘withdrawn’ showing a similar pattern of association to that found for other autism related conditions. The ‘tense’ factor appeared in part to be related to the burden of caring for an autistic child. Conclusions. This study confirms the finding that particular personality traits may aggregate in the family members of autistic individuals and furthermore that some of these traits may be a manifestation of the liability to autism.
Prognostic Effect of Isolated Nocturnal Hypertension in Chinese Patients With Nondialysis Chronic Kidney Disease

Background Isolated nocturnal hypertension (INH) has been studied among the general population and hypertensive patients. However, little insight is available on the prognostic effect of INH in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study investigated the prognostic effect of INH in a cohort of Chinese patients with nondialysis CKD. Methods and Results A total of 588 Chinese CKD patients who were admitted to the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐Sen University were enrolled in this study. We monitored blood pressure (BP) throughout the day and followed health outcomes in the 588 CKD patients admitted to our hospital division. We recorded time to total mortality, cardiovascular mortality, renal events, and cardiovascular events. A total of 370 (62.92%) individuals had nocturnal hypertension, which included 136 (23.13%) patients with INH. Multivariable Cox regression analyses showed that nocturnal BP was a significant risk factor for renal events and cardiovascular events in CKD patients, even when adjusted for clinic BP, 24‐hour BP, or daytime BP. Patients with nocturnal hypertension showed a worse prognosis compared with patients with nocturnal normotension (P<0.05), and nocturnal hypertension (versus nocturnal normotension) was associated with an increased risk for renal events (hazard ratio [HR], 3.81; 95% CI, 1.74–8.36) and cardiovascular events (HR, 8.34; 95% CI, 1.98–35.07). In addition, patients with INH had a worse prognosis than patients with normotension (P<0.017), whereas INH (versus normotension) was associated with a higher risk of renal events (HR, 2.78; 95% CI, 1.16–6.65) and cardiovascular events (HR, 6.82; 95% CI, 1.52–30.63). Conclusions INH was associated with a poor prognosis in Chinese nondialysis CKD patients.
Upcycling Polymers and Natural Fibers Waste—Properties of a Potential Building Material

Composites of recycled high-density polyethylene and micro fibres of sugarcane bagasse were studied, in order to create an upcycled material to produce masonry bricks. We ranged the polymer/filler ratio from 100–0 to 60%–40%. The materials were assessed through scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetry/derivative thermogravimetry, differential scanning calorimetry, rheological measurements and compressive strength test. The composites showed a good dispersion and adhesion of the filler into the polymeric matrix. There was no significant variation on the melting and crystallizing temperatures of the materials if compared to those of neat polymer, indicating that there was no relevant change in the average size of the polymeric crystals. We assumed that some transcrystallization has happened, because the degree of crystallinity of the composites increased to all filler contents, while the crystallizing temperature remained the same. There was a rise in the compressive moduli of the composites, ranging from 37% to 63%. The modulus at the crossover point and the complex viscosity also rose due to the fibres ratio. The results show that the combination of these materials led to the reinforcement of the compressive strength of the polymer, and have interesting properties as a potential building material.
Improved glycemic control and reduced bodyweight with exenatide: A double‐blind, randomized, phase 3 study in Japanese patients with suboptimally controlled type 2 diabetes over 24 weeks

Aims/Introduction: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist, exenatide, in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus suboptimally controlled despite therapeutic doses of a sulfonylurea alone or combined with a biguanide or thiazolidinedione.
Sleep Apnea Syndrome Represents a Risk for Glaucoma in a Veterans' Affairs Population

Purpose. To determine whether the diagnosis of sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) represents a risk-factor for glaucoma. Design. Retrospective records review. Methods. Records in an electronic database which exists at the Birmingham, Alabama Veterans' Affairs Medical Center (BVAMC) permit data retrieval and sorting based on diagnostic and procedural codes. Deidentified data of those having had an eye examination and a diagnostic code (ICD-9) for either sleep apnea or glaucoma were included. Statistical Analyses. SPSS version 19 was used to produce crosstabs and to conduct a bivariate logistic regression that examined the relationship between SAS and glaucoma. Results. A total of 70,960 unique records were included for analysis. Of the 2,725 patients with a diagnosis of sleep apnea, 228 (8.37%) also had a diagnosis of glaucoma. Diagnosis of glaucoma was present in 3,410 patients among 68,235 patients (5.00%) without sleep apnea. Bivariate logistic regression analysis yielded an odds ratio of 1.736 (P < 0.001) suggesting that individuals with SAS are more likely to have a coexisting diagnosis of glaucoma than individuals without SAS. Conclusions. Results of this investigation suggest that SAS may represent a significant risk factor for glaucoma and this should be considered when managing patients who report that diagnosis.
Multiscale retinex for color rendition and dynamic range compression

The human vision system performs the tasks of dynamic range compression and color constancy almost effortlessly. The same tasks pose a very challenging problem for imaging systems whose dynamic range is restricted by either the dynamic response of film, in case of analog cameras, or by the analog-to-digital converters, in the case of digital cameras. The images thus formed are unable to encompass the wide dynamic range present in most natural scenes. Whereas the human visual system is quite tolerant to spectral changes in lighting conditions, these strongly affect both the film response for analog cameras and the filter responses for digital cameras, leading to incorrect color formulation in the acquired image. Our multiscale retinex, based in part on Edwin Land's work on color constancy, provides a fast, simple, and automatic technique for simultaneous dynamic range compression and accurate color rendition. The retinex algorithm is non-linear, and global-- output at a point is also a function of its surround--in extent. A comparison with conventional dynamic range compression techniques such as the application of point non- linearities. The applications of such an algorithm are many; from medical imaging to remote sensing; and from commercial photography to color transmission.
Reminiscence through the Lens of Social Media

Reminiscence is used to support and create new social bonds and give meaning to life. Originally perceived as a preoccupation of the aged, we now recognize that reminiscence has value throughout the lifespan. Increasingly, social media can be used to both support and prompt reminiscence, with Facebook’s Lookback or Year in Review as recent examples. This work takes prompted reminiscence further, asking what forms and functions of reminiscence are supported by social media. Utilizing the online service MySocialBook, we invited participants to curate content from their personal Facebook account to then be transformed into a printed book. We used that book as a prompt for discussion of the reminiscence function of the curated material, using Westerhof and Bohlmeijer’s (2014) reminiscence framework as a starting point. We conclude that this framework is valuable in understanding the role of social media in reminiscence, but note that earlier models, such as Webster’s Reminiscence Functions Scale, are also relevant. We contribute to the reminiscence debate by adding a technological lens to the process of life review, whilst concurring with other researchers in this field that a robust conceptual framework is lacking, particularly when considering the forms of reminiscence that are most salient for younger people.
Twitter: An Investigation of the Impact of Network Communication

This paper uses the popular social networking site Twitter to test recent theories on the importance of communication through networks. I create a unique data set that precisely measures the network size and credibility of each contributor to the site. I test the theory of DeMarzo et al (2003) that an agent's influence is a function of his credibility and the size of his network, as well as the Colla and Mele (2010) theory of correlated trading among social groups. I show that influence is a function of network credibility and network size. I also find that there is positively correlated trading among agents in a social network and negatively correlated trading with agents outside of the network. Finally, using portfolios sorted on level of attention, I find support for the Merton (1987) theory of investor recognition which predicts that low attention stocks should exhibit positive risk adjusted returns.
Altered Cingulostriatal Coupling in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Neurobiological models of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) assume abnormalities in corticostriatal networks involving cingulate and orbitofrontal cortices, but the connectivity within these systems is rarely addressed in experimental imaging studies in this patient group. Using an established monetary reinforcement paradigm known to involve the cingulate cortex and the ventral striatum, the present study sought to test for altered corticostriatal coupling in OCD patients anticipating potential punishment. The anterior midcingulate cortex (aMCC), a region integrating negative emotion, pain, and cognitive control, was chosen as a seed region due to its particular relevance in OCD, representing the neurosurgical target for cingulotomy, and showing increased responses to errors in OCD patients. Results from psychophysiological interaction analyses revealed that significantly altered, inverse coupling occurs between the aMCC and the ventral striatum when OCD patients anticipate potential punishment. This abnormality links the two major contemporary neurosurgical OCD target sites, and provides direct experimental evidence of altered corticostriatal connectivity in OCD. Noteworthy, an abnormal aMCC coupling with cortical areas outside of traditional corticostriatal circuitry was identified besides the alteration in the cingulostriatal pathway. In conclusion, these findings support the importance of applying connectivity methods to study corticostriatal networks in OCD, and favor the application of effective connectivity methods to study corticostriatal abnormalities in OCD patients performing tasks that involve symptom provocation and reinforcement learning.
Overview of Serological Techniques for Influenza Vaccine Evaluation: Past, Present and Future

Serological techniques commonly used to quantify influenza-specific antibodies include the Haemagglutination Inhibition (HI), Single Radial Haemolysis (SRH) and Virus Neutralization (VN) assays. HI and SRH are established and reproducible techniques, whereas VN is more demanding. Every new influenza vaccine needs to fulfil the strict criteria issued by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in order to be licensed. These criteria currently apply exclusively to SRH and HI assays and refer to two different target groups—healthy adults and the elderly, but other vaccine recipient age groups have not been considered (i.e., children). The purpose of this timely review is to highlight the current scenario on correlates of protection concerning influenza vaccines and underline the need to revise the criteria and assays currently in use. In addition to SRH and HI assays, the technical advantages provided by other techniques such as the VN assay, pseudotype-based neutralization assay, neuraminidase and cell-mediated immunity assays need to be considered and regulated via EMA criteria, considering the many significant advantages that they could offer for the development of effective vaccines.