Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Source-Based Morphometry Analysis of Group Differences in Fractional Anisotropy in Schizophrenia

A multivariate source-based morphometry (SBM) method for processing fractional anisotropy (FA) data is presented. SBM utilizes independent component analysis (ICA) and decomposes an FA image into spatial maps and loading coefficients. The loading coefficients represent the relative degree each component contributes to a given subject's FA map. We hypothesized that SBM analysis on a large dataset of age- and gender-matched patients with schizophrenia (n=65, ages 18-60 years) and healthy controls (n=102, ages 18-60 years) would show a similar, specific pattern of frontal and temporal group differences as a recent voxel-based morphometry meta-analysis. Two approaches using (a) the loading coefficients obtained from the ICA analysis and, alternatively, (b) the weighted mean FA values obtained from the ICA-defined clusters were compared for group analysis. Six of the 10 selected components had significant group differences with the loading coefficients. Each component was composed of several white matter tracts distributed throughout the brain. Nine of the 10 nonartifactual components had significant group differences with the weighted mean FA values. The weighted mean FA values for each ICA spatial map generally had larger effects sizes relative to the loading coefficients. These networks were consistent with regions identified in previous voxel-based studies of schizophrenia. SBM identified several components that covered disjoint brain regions and multiple white matter tracts that would not have been possible with previous voxel-based univariate techniques. Overall, these results suggest the importance of utilizing multivariate approaches in morphometric studies in schizophrenia.
Attachment across the Life Span: Factors that Contribute to Stability and Change.

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of the empirical findings on the stability of attachment from infancy through adulthood. More specifically, the paper discusses the longitudinal research concerning the continuity of attachment from infancy to adulthood as well as those studies that have assessed stability within a shorter time frame, across the various developmental periods (infancy, early childhood, adolescence and adulthood). This paper provides a unique contribution in examining developmental issues surrounding attachment stability and change. Additionally, since few studies have examined the factors that contribute to stable security and change from insecurity to security, this review highlights the variables that are influential in predicting attachment security.
The Role of Celestial Compass Information in Cataglyphis Ants during Learning Walks and for Neuroplasticity in the Central Complex and Mushroom Bodies

Central place foragers are faced with the challenge to learn the position of their nest entrance in its surroundings, in order to find their way back home every time they go out to search for food. To acquire navigational information at the beginning of their foraging career, Cataglyphis noda performs learning walks during the transition from interior worker to forager. These small loops around the nest entrance are repeatedly interrupted by strikingly accurate back turns during which the ants stop and precisely gaze back to the nest entrance—presumably to learn the landmark panorama of the nest surroundings. However, as at this point the complete navigational toolkit is not yet available, the ants are in need of a reference system for the compass component of the path integrator to align their nest entrance-directed gazes. In order to find this directional reference system, we systematically manipulated the skylight information received by ants during learning walks in their natural habitat, as it has been previously suggested that the celestial compass, as part of the path integrator, might provide such a reference system. High-speed video analyses of distinct learning walk elements revealed that even exclusion from the skylight polarization pattern, UV-light spectrum and the position of the sun did not alter the accuracy of the look back to the nest behavior. We therefore conclude that C. noda uses a different reference system to initially align their gaze directions. However, a comparison of neuroanatomical changes in the central complex and the mushroom bodies before and after learning walks revealed that exposure to UV light together with a naturally changing polarization pattern was essential to induce neuroplasticity in these high-order sensory integration centers of the ant brain. This suggests a crucial role of celestial information, in particular a changing polarization pattern, in initially calibrating the celestial compass system.
Consequences of SCHIP Expansions for Household Well-Being

About 7.4 million children were covered by the State Childrens Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) at some point during fiscal year 2008. Many of these children would probably have had private coverage in the absence of SCHIP; recent estimates of the extent of crowd-out associated with SCHIP are about 60 percent (Gruber and Simon 2008). The high rate of crowd-out means that the program is not as effective as it could be at reducing the number of uninsured children and has been a political liability for the program. Both political concerns and policy research focusing on crowd-out in SCHIP build on more than a decade of similar attention to the crowd-out associated with the Medicaid expansions of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While there is little doubt that expanding eligibility for public insurance to children who are not poor will lead some to substitute public for private coverage, this substitution should increase total resources available to these households in two ways. First, those who drop private coverage in order to enroll their children in SCHIP can take whatever they had been spending on health insurance and spend it on something else. Second, public insurance requires less cost-sharing than a typical private insurance policy, providing first-dollar coverage with minimal co-payments. This means that switching from private to public coverage reduces a familys out-of-pocket medical spending, freeing up even more of the familys resources for other uses. From the perspective of a low-income family, then, crowd-out is a windfall. In this paper we ask: what do these families do with the additional resources? We address this question with an empirical analysis of consumption data from the Consumer Expenditure Survey. We find that eligibility for SCHIP is associated with an increase in overall expenditure, and most of this increase is allocated to consumption of transportation or saving for retirement. These results suggest that the SCHIP expansions substantially improved the material well-being of the low-income families it is intended to assist  including those who had previously been paying for their own coverage. This evidence should allow a better accounting of the benefits and not just the costs of recent expansions in public health insurance programs.
A novel technique for studies on the microvasculature of transplanted islets of Langerhans in vivo.

Transplantation of isolated islets of Langerhans in diabetic patients is frequently followed by an early loss of function due to acute rejection. Since the primary target of host-vs-graft reaction is the endothelium of the microvessels, it is of great importance to analyze the microcirculation of freely grafted pancreatic islets. For this purpose we present a new model, allowing for intravital microscopy of the microvasculature of transplanted islets of Langerhans. The islets are isolated from Syrian golden hamsters and DA-rats, respectively, by a modified collagenase digestion technique. Subsequently, the islets are transplanted into a hamster dorsal skinfold chamber. Using intravital fluorescence microscopy and video techniques, the microcirculation of the islet grafts can be observed repeatedly over a time period of up to four weeks. Quantitative analysis of the microhemodynamics, i.e. functional capillary density, capillary RBC-velocity and microvascular diameters, can be performed by means of a computer assisted image analysis system. In addition, the model allows for investigation of the flow behaviour of white blood cells and their interaction with the endothelium of the microvascular segments. For the first time a model is presented, enabling for in vivo analysis of the revascularization process and microcirculatory function of transplanted islets of Langerhans. Furthermore, the model allows to assess microvascular phenomena during host-vs-graft reaction as well as effects of immunosuppressive regimens.
The transcription factor Pitx2 positions the embryonic axis and regulates twinning

Embryonic polarity of invertebrates, amphibians and fish is specified largely by maternal determinants, which fixes cell fates early in development. In contrast, amniote embryos remain plastic and can form multiple individuals until gastrulation. How is their polarity determined? In the chick embryo, the earliest known factor is cVg1 (homologous to mammalian growth differentiation factor 1, GDF1), a transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signal expressed posteriorly before gastrulation. A molecular screen to find upstream regulators of cVg1 in normal embryos and in embryos manipulated to form twins now uncovers the transcription factor Pitx2 as a candidate. We show that Pitx2 is essential for axis formation, and that it acts as a direct regulator of cVg1 expression by binding to enhancers within neighbouring genes. Pitx2, Vg1/GDF1 and Nodal are also key actors in left–right asymmetry, suggesting that the same ancient polarity determination mechanism has been co-opted to different functions during evolution. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.7554/eLife.03743. 001
Grunig's Situational Theory: A Replication, Application, and Extension

Grunig's situational theory segments publics from a larger population based on the activeness or passiveness of communication behavior. This study found support for the Grunig model in a survey conducted during the 1990 governor's race in Kansas. The variables of the theory—problem recognition, level of involvement, and constraint recognition—accurately predicted different levels of communication activity about the election. The theory also predicted the outcomes of communication successfully. In contrast to previous studies using the situational theory, this study found a strong relationship between the situational variables and standard demographic characteristics of age, education, and income—thus suggesting the possibility of using segmentation procedures that include both situational variables and media demographics. Finally, the article suggests that the situational theory could be enhanced by including an energy variable—specifically Hull-Spence's behavior equation—and a media use variable.
Explaining Variations in Client Extra Costs Between Software Projects Offshored to India

Gaining economic benefits from substantially lower labor costs has been reported as a major reason for offshoring labor-intensive information systems services to low-wage countries. However, if wage differences are so high, why is there such a high level of variation in the economic success between offshored IS projects? This study argues that offshore outsourcing involves a number of extra costs for the client organization that account for the economic failure of offshore projects. The objective is to disaggregate these extra costs into their constituent parts and to explain why they differ between offshored software projects. The focus is on software development and maintenance projects that are offshored to Indian vendors. A theoretical framework is developed a priori based on transaction cost economics (TCE) and the knowledge-based view of the firm, complemented by factors that acknowledge the specific offshore context. The framework is empirically explored using a multiple case study design including six offshored software projects in a large German financial service institution. The results of our analysis indicate that the client incurs post- contractual extra costs for four types of activities: (1) requirements specification and design, (2) knowledge transfer, (3) control, and (4) coordination. In projects that require a high level of client-specific knowledge about idiosyncratic business processes and software systems, these extra costs were found to be substantially higher than in projects where more general knowledge was needed. Notably, these costs most often arose independently from the threat of opportunistic behavior, challenging the predominant TCE logic of market failure. Rather, the client extra costs were particularly high in client-specific projects because the effort for managing the consequences of the knowledge asymmetries between client and vendor was particularly high in these projects. Prior experiences of the vendor with related client projects were found to reduce the level of extra costs but could not fully offset the increase in extra costs in highly client-specific projects. Moreover, cultural and geographic distance between client and vendor as well as personnel turnover were found to increase client extra costs. Slight evidence was found, however, that the cost-increasing impact of these factors was also leveraged in projects with a high level of required client-specific knowledge (moderator effect).
Elodia and Franca

This article is the result of a dialogue that I have recently undertaken with two Italian women, a mother and her daughter, who migrated to Australia in 1956. The interviews were part of an oral history project that aims at investigating the role of hope in migrants ‘lives. It is argued that an emotional approach to migrants’ stories, memories and opinions can contribute to a more sensitive understanding of the complexity and intensity of migrants’ lives.
A new large-signal model for the quantum series-parallel resonant converter with output voltage doubler

This paper presents a model for the quantum series-parallel LCC-type resonant converter with output voltage doubler. The model is derived based on the generalized averaging method. The accuracy of the model in steady state and the dynamic behavior is verified by simulations and measurements with a laboratory setup. Moreover a simple and effective control method is proposed and verified by measurement.
Somali American female refugees discuss their attitudes toward homosexuality and the gay and lesbian community

Abstract Minnesota is home to the largest population of Somalis in the USA – most arriving as refugees from the civil war in Somalia. As Somali Americans adjust to life in the USA, they are likely to undergo shifts in their belief systems – including changes in their attitudes toward gays and lesbians. We examined the attitudes of 29 Somali American women in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area toward homosexuality via face-to-face, semi-structured interviews. Transcripts were translated, transcribed and analysed using an approach informed by grounded theory. Three major themes were identified: (1) Islamic prohibitions against homosexuality; (2) homosexuals exiled to a hidden community; and (3) community members exploring tolerance. Participants’ attitudes toward homosexuality were heavily influenced by religious doctrines and cultural contexts. This is the first known study in the USA of Somali American attitudes toward gays and lesbians. As people mass migrate from nations with negative attitudes toward homosexuality to countries with more progressive attitudes toward varied sexual orientations, refugee attitudes about homosexuality will undergo change. Through research and education, we can better understand how to increase tolerance toward and opportunities for visibility among gay and lesbian refugees throughout the diaspora.
Immune thrombocytopenic purpura in infants.

Acute immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a well-described illness in preschool and young school-aged children and is usually self-limited. It has been suggested that infants with acute ITP do not respond to conventional therapy as well as children between ages 1 and 8 years and are more likely to Comparison of Acute Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura in infants and Older Children Variable Infants All Children (Published Data) Mean age Mean platelet count at diagnosis, ×109/L M:F ratio Intracranial hemorrhage Chronic Time to platelet count >100×109/L After oral steroids After intravenous steroids After intravenous IgG Under observation 7.8 mo 12.9 (range, 3-38) 1:1 None 1/10 3/3 by day 22 2/4 by day 2 and incomplete follow-up in other 2 2/2 by day 7 2/2 by day 55 Approximately 5 y2,3 100-3004,5 1:16 60% by day 219,10 >60% with platelet count >50×109/L by day 52,4 >60% by day 79 80% spontaneous
Promises to keep : decline and renewal of marriage in America

Part 1 The DecLine of Marriage Chapter 2 The Decline of Marriage as the Social Basis of Childrearing Chapter 3 Values, Attitudes, and the State of American Marriage Chapter 4 Myths of Marriage and Family Chapter 5 Comparative and Historical Perspectives on Marriage, Divorce, and Family Life Chapter 6 Decline of the Family: Conservative, Liberal, and Feminist Views Part 7 Religious, Legal, and Clinical Dimensions Chapter 8 Biology, Ethics, and Narrative in Christian Family Theory Chapter 9 Postmodern Family Law: Toward a New Model of Status Chapter 10 The Law and the Stability of Marriage: The Family as a Social Institution Chapter 11 Parenting from Separate Households Part 12 Rebuilding A Marriage Culture Chapter 13 Re-creating Marriage Chapter 14 Modern Marriage: Revising the Cultural Script Chapter 15 The Reinstitutionalization of Marriage: Political Theory and Public Policy Part 16 Marriage in America: A Report to the Nation Chapter 17 Marriage in America: A Report to the Nation Chapter 18 Afterword
Gender and Science in the Swedish Compulsory School

ABSTRACT This study investigates how Swedish pupils meet chemistry, physics and technology in compulsory school. It explores girls' and boys' actions in and thoughts about these subjects during grades 7 to 9. The pupils come from different worlds determined by gender and social background. In the classroom girls are given, and take upon themselves, the role of keeping lessons together, while boys' attempts to dominate the public arena create disorder. Girls and boys prefer different subject areas. Boys have a practical while girls have a more theoretical approach to science. Girls seek ‘connected knowledge’, and even the successful girls question their understanding. Girls who take an interest in physics and chemistry often have supporting scientist fathers or at least parents with a higher education. Technology is rejected by all girls. The mutual construction and reconstruction of gender and of science/technology contribute to gendered choices of study programmes in upper secondary school.
Effect of verapamil and procainamide on atrial fibrillation-induced electrical remodeling in humans.

BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) shortens the atrial effective refractory period (ERP) and predisposes to further episodes of AF. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of verapamil and procainamide on these manifestations of AF-induced electrical remodeling. METHODS AND RESULTS In adult patients without structural heart disease, the atrial ERP was measured before and after AF after pharmacological autonomic blockade and administration of verapamil (17 patients), procainamide (10 patients), or saline (20 patients). AF was then induced by rapid pacing. Immediately on AF conversion, the post-AF ERP was measured at alternating drive cycle lengths of 350 and 500 ms. In the saline group, the pre-AF and first post-AF ERPs at the 350-ms drive cycle length were 206+/-19 and 179+/-27 ms (P<.0001), respectively, and at the 500-ms drive cycle length, the values were 217+/-16 and 183+/-23 ms, respectively (P<.0001). There was a similar significant shortening of the first post-AF ERP in the procainamide group. In the verapamil group, however, there was no difference between the pre-AF and the first post-AF ERP at the 350-ms (226+/-15 versus 227+/-22 ms, P=.8) or 500-ms (230+/-17 versus 232+/-20 ms, P=.6) drive cycle length. During determinations of the post-AF ERP, 105 secondary episodes of AF were unintentionally induced in 12% of verapamil patients compared with 90% and 80% of saline and procainamide patients (P<.01 versus verapamil). CONCLUSIONS Pretreatment with the calcium channel antagonist verapamil, but not the sodium channel antagonist procainamide, markedly attenuates acute, AF-induced changes in atrial electrophysiological properties. These data suggest that calcium loading during AF may be at least partially responsible for AF-induced electrical remodeling.
Genome-Wide Association Study Reveals Multiple Loci Associated with Primary Tooth Development during Infancy

Tooth development is a highly heritable process which relates to other growth and developmental processes, and which interacts with the development of the entire craniofacial complex. Abnormalities of tooth development are common, with tooth agenesis being the most common developmental anomaly in humans. We performed a genome-wide association study of time to first tooth eruption and number of teeth at one year in 4,564 individuals from the 1966 Northern Finland Birth Cohort (NFBC1966) and 1,518 individuals from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC). We identified 5 loci at P<5×10−8, and 5 with suggestive association (P<5×10−6). The loci included several genes with links to tooth and other organ development (KCNJ2, EDA, HOXB2, RAD51L1, IGF2BP1, HMGA2, MSRB3). Genes at four of the identified loci are implicated in the development of cancer. A variant within the HOXB gene cluster associated with occlusion defects requiring orthodontic treatment by age 31 years.
Wavefront parallel processing based on POSIX threads

To cope with the significant computational complexity introduced by High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) standard, several parallelization schemes are introduced, such as Tiles, Wavefront parallel processing(WPP) and Dependent slice segments. These coding structures make multi-core processing possible. In this paper, we analyzed the degree of parallelism WPP can achieve and then proposed a multi-threaded encoder implementation based on WPP by using POSIX Threads. Experimental results show that the speedup of parallel encoding using WPP can reach about 3.4 times on quad core processor when encoding a 1080p video sequence.