Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Hospice Utilization and Its Effect on Acute Care Needs at the End of Life in Medicare Beneficiaries With Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a poor-prognosis cancer with a high symptom burden. Multidisciplinary HCC care is complex and unique in cancer medicine. We sought to determine whether the distinct process affects hospice use and how hospice affects end-of-life acute care utilization. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients dying after HCC diagnosed from 2004 to 2011 were identified within SEER-Medicare. Hospice use and associated factors were described using logistic regression. Coarse exact and propensity score matching created groups of hospice and nonhospice comparators balanced on clinical characteristics. Health care use from first hospice claim to death and the matched duration in the nonhospice group were compared. RESULTS Of 7,992 decedent patients with HCC, 63% used hospice before death, with a median duration of 18 days (interquartile range, 5-51 days). Initial treatment with surgery and ablation (odds ratio [OR], 0.63; 95% CI, 0.53 to 0.74) or chemoembolization/radioembolization (OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.80) was associated with decreased odds of subsequent hospice use compared with untreated patients. Hospice use was more likely in those consulting hematology/oncology (OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.13 to 1.56) but not in those consulting gastroenterology (OR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.65 to 0.95). Hospice patients had lower rates of hospitalization (7.9% v 47.8%; risk ratio [RR], 0.16; 95% CI, 0.14 to 0.19), intensive care unit stay (2.8% v 25.3%; RR, 0.11; 95% CI, 0.09 to 0.14), and in-hospital death (3.5% v 58.4%; RR, 0.06; 95% CI, 0.05 to 0.07). CONCLUSION Processes of care influence which patients with HCC are referred to hospice. Hospice use has a marked effect on acute care use at the end of life in patients with HCC. Efforts to incorporate cancer-focused palliative care might improve the quality of end-of-life care in HCC.
Classification and Extraction of Spatial Features in Urban Areas Using High-Resolution Multispectral Imagery

Classification and extraction of spatial features are investigated in urban areas from high spatial resolution multispectral imagery. The proposed approach consists of three steps. First, as an extension of our previous work [pixel shape index (PSI)], a structural feature set (SFS) is proposed to extract the statistical features of the direction-lines histogram. Second, some methods of dimension reduction, including independent component analysis, decision boundary feature extraction, and the similarity-index feature selection, are implemented for the proposed SFS to reduce information redundancy. Third, four classifiers, the maximum-likelihood classifier, backpropagation neural network, probability neural network based on expectation-maximization training, and support vector machine, are compared to assess SFS and other spatial feature sets. We evaluate the proposed approach on two QuickBird datasets, and the results show that the new set of reduced spatial features has better performance than the existing length-width extraction algorithm and PSI
A cross-sectional study of 'care left undone' on nursing shifts in hospitals.

AIMS To determine factors associated with variation in 'care left undone' (also referred to as 'missed care') by Registered Nurses (RNs) in acute hospital wards in Sweden. BACKGROUND 'Care left undone' has been examined as a factor mediating the relationship between nurse staffing and patient outcomes. The context has not previously been explored to determine what other factors are associated with variation in 'care left undone' by RNs. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey to explore the association of RN staffing and contextual factors such as time of shift, nursing role and patient acuity/dependency on 'care left undone' was examined using multi-level logistic regression. METHODS A survey of 10,174 RNs working on general medical and surgical wards in 79 acute care hospitals in Sweden (January-March 2010). RESULTS Seventy-four per cent of nurses reported some care was left undone on their last shift. The time of shift, patient mix, nurses' role, practice environment and staffing have a significant relationship with care left undone. The odds of care being left undone is halved on shifts where RN care for six patients or fewer compared with shifts where they care for 10 or more. CONCLUSION The previously observed relationship between RN staffing and care left undone is confirmed. Reports of care left undone are influenced by RN roles. Support worker staffing has little effect. Research is needed to identify how these factors relate to one another and whether care left undone is a predictor of adverse patient outcomes.
Transforming a 3-D LiDAR Point Cloud Into a 2-D Dense Depth Map Through a Parameter Self-Adaptive Framework

The 3-D LiDAR scanner and the 2-D charge-coupled device (CCD) camera are two typical types of sensors for surrounding-environment perceiving in robotics or autonomous driving. Commonly, they are jointly used to improve perception accuracy by simultaneously recording the distances of surrounding objects, as well as the color and shape information. In this paper, we use the correspondence between a 3-D LiDAR scanner and a CCD camera to rearrange the captured LiDAR point cloud into a dense depth map, in which each 3-D point corresponds to a pixel at the same location in the RGB image. In this paper, we assume that the LiDAR scanner and the CCD camera are accurately calibrated and synchronized beforehand so that each 3-D LiDAR point cloud is aligned with its corresponding RGB image. Each frame of the LiDAR point cloud is then projected onto the RGB image plane to form a sparse depth map. Then, a self-adaptive method is proposed to upsample the sparse depth map into a dense depth map, in which the RGB image and the anisotropic diffusion tensor are exploited to guide upsampling by reinforcing the RGB-depth compactness. Finally, convex optimization is applied on the dense depth map for global enhancement. Experiments on the KITTI and Middlebury data sets demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms several other relevant state-of-the-art methods in terms of visual comparison and root-mean-square error measurement.
Stability and transient performance assessment in a COTS-module-based distributed DC/DC system

This paper introduces a method to analyze and predict stability and transient performance of a distributed system where COTS (Commercial-off-the-shelf) modules share an input filter. The presented procedure is based on the measured data from the input and output terminals of the power modules. The required information for the analysis is obtained by performing frequency response measurements for each converter. This attained data is utilized to compute special transfer functions, which partly determine the source and load interactions within the converters. The system level dynamic description is constructed based on the measured and computed transfer functions introducing cross-coupling mechanisms within the system. System stability can be studied based on the well-known impedance-related minor-loop gain at an arbitrary interface within the system.
Consumption of Green Tea, but Not Black Tea or Coffee, Is Associated with Reduced Risk of Cognitive Decline

Our objective was to determine whether the consumption of green tea, coffee, or black tea influences the incidence of dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in older people. We conducted a population-based prospective study with Japanese residents aged >60 years from Nakajima, Japan (the Nakajima Project). Participants received an evaluation of cognitive function and blood tests. The consumption of green tea, coffee, and black tea was also evaluated at baseline. Of 723 participants with normal cognitive function at a baseline survey (2007–2008), 490 completed the follow up survey in 2011–2013. The incidence of dementia during the follow-up period (mean ± SD: 4.9±0.9 years) was 5.3%, and that of MCI was 13.1%. The multiple-adjusted odds ratio for the incidence of overall cognitive decline (dementia or MCI) was 0.32 (95% CI: 0.16–0.64) among individuals who consumed green tea every day and 0.47 (95% CI: 0.25–0.86) among those who consumed green tea 1–6 days per week compared with individuals who did not consume green tea at all. The multiple-adjusted odds ratio for the incidence of dementia was 0.26 (95% CI: 0.06–1.06) among individuals who consumed green tea every day compared with those who did not consume green tea at all. No association was found between coffee or black tea consumption and the incidence of dementia or MCI. Our results indicate that green tea consumption is significantly associated with reduced risk of cognitive decline, even after adjustment for possible confounding factors.
MicroRNA-22 inhibits the proliferation and migration, and increases the cisplatin sensitivity, of osteosarcoma cells

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the major type of primary bone tumor and is associated with a poor prognosis due to chemotherapy resistance. Accumulating evidence indicates that microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) may influence the tumor progression of OS and cell sensitivity to chemotherapy. In the present study, a total of 7 patients with OS and 7 healthy volunteers were recruited. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and ELISA were performed to determine the expression of miRNAs and mRNAs in the serum of participants. Furthermore, the biological function of miR-22 and S100A11 was examined in MG-63 cells using Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, Transwell migration assays and western blot analysis to determine the effects on cell proliferation, migration and protein expression, respectively, while MG-63 cell sensitivity to cisplatin was assessed by measuring cell viability following cisplatin treatment and calculating the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50). Additionally, the association between miR-22 and S100 calcium-binding protein A11 (S100A11) was validated using a luciferase reporter assay. The results demonstrated that miR-22 expression was significantly reduced in patients with OS and the MG-63 OS cell line, compared with healthy volunteers and the normal osteoblast hFOB 1.19 cell line, respectively, while the expression of S100A11 was negatively associated with miR-22 levels in the MG-63 cell line. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-22 inhibited the proliferation and migratory ability of MG-63 cells, and increased the sensitivity of MG-63 cells to cisplatin treatment; however, overexpression of S100A11 partially attenuated the alterations in proliferation, migratory ability and chemosensitivity that were induced by miR-22 overexpression. In addition, it was confirmed that S100A11 is a direct target gene of miR-22 in MG-63 cells. In conclusion, to the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to demonstrate that miR-22 may be a promising therapeutic target and may have potential as part of a combination treatment alongside chemotherapeutic agents for OS.
Effect of Some Food Colorants (Synthetic and Natural products) of Young Albino Rats I- Liver and Kidney Functions

Food colorants are used all over the world in great amount. However, their use in food is still controversial. It causes and will cause severe tension to the consumers as the sensitivity of people increases to general health. This work was carried out to study and compare between the possible toxic effect of some natural (tumeric, carmine and chlorophyll) and synthetic (fast green, annatto and sunset-yellow), food colorants on liver and kidney function of young male albino rats. Such effect might explain hyperactivity of children that was claimed associated with consumption of food colorants. The study revealed that administration of both natural and synthetic food colorants (permitted dose) significantly increases serum AST and serum urea. All colorants with the exception of sun-set yellow significantly increase serum total bilirubin. While, chlorophyll, fast-green and sun-set yellow were significantly increase serum ALT. Some of the colorants used have a retard destructive effect on some vital organ functions, which extends even after the recovery period. Therefore, large quantities and /or long periods of colorants administration should not be used as additive in man’s diet or as a drink. Hence, these colorants should restrictly be used in nutritional therapy. And more caring must be done prevent our children to eat or drink these colorants with much amounts or for long period.
Polydisperse Low Diameter ‘Non-Toxic’ Silver Nanoparticles Encapsulated by Rooibos Tea Templates

This work reports the synthesis of ‘non-toxic’ polydisperse, low diameter silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Rooibos extracts at temperatures 25 °C, 30 °C, 50 °C, 70 °C and 90 °C were used. The effect of different extraction temperature on the % yield and nature of the AgNPs were investigated. The characteristics of the ‘green synthesis’ processed AgNPs were evaluated through UV-Vis spectroscopy, high resolution tunnelling microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and EDX techniques. Results indicated an increase in extraction temperature leads to more polyphenol extraction, increase in the AgNP % yield and greater absorbance. A yellow to brown to dark brown colour change observed during the synthesis indicated AgNPs formation. UV-Vis results indicated the AgNPs surface plasmon peaks at 440, 447, 450, 460 and 489 nm for the 25 °C, 30 °C, 50 °C, 70 °C, 90 °C respectively. SEM results revealed spherical nanosized particles with dense cores and lighter outer region with mean diameters for AgNPs ranged between 4.4-5.8 nm. EDX results indicated prominent Ag peaks at 3.10 keV. XRD results showed vaguely defined amorphous polyol peaks at below 2θ = 27°. The sharp peaks at 2θ = 38°, 45°, 66° and 77° which were assigned as 111, 200, 220 and 321 corresponded to the face-centred cubic crystalline silver phase.
PRACTICAL USES OF DIGITAL STORYTELLING

Digital storytelling is a good way to engage students in both traditional and innovative ways of telling a story. The students learn how to combine some basic multimedia tools such as graphics, animation, with skills such as research, writing, presentation, technology, interview, interpersonal, problem-solving, and assessment skills (Robin 2005, Barrett 2005). The purpose of this talk is threefold: first, I will briefly describe some of the educational uses of digital storytelling and its applicability in the new context of the Bologna Accord. Secondly, I will be showing some examples of specific instructions as to how to use Digital Storytelling in the classroom. Thirdly, I will talk about the outcomes of my own experience with digital storytelling with students from the Universitat de València.
Worries about Being Judged versus Being Harmed: Disentangling the Association of Social Anxiety and Paranoia with Schizotypy

Paranoia is a dimension of clinical and subclinical experiences in which others are believed to have harmful intentions. Mild paranoid concerns are relatively common in the general population, and more clinically severe paranoia shares features with social anxiety and is a key characteristic of schizotypy. Given that subclinical manifestations of schizotypy and paranoia may predict the occurrence of more severe symptoms, disentangling the associations of these related constructs may advance our understanding of their etiology; however no known studies to date have comprehensively evaluated how paranoia relates to social anxiety and schizotypy. The current research sought to examine the association of paranoia, assessed across a broad continuum of severity, with 1) the positive and negative schizotypy dimensions and 2) social anxiety. Specifically, the study tested a series of six competing, a priori models using confirmatory factor analysis in a sample of 862 young adults. As hypothesized, the data supported a four-factor model including positive schizotypy, negative schizotypy, social anxiety, and paranoia factors, suggesting that these are distinct constructs with differing patterns of interrelationships. Paranoia had a strong association with positive schizotypy, a moderate association with social anxiety, and a minimal association with negative schizotypy. The results are consistent with paranoia being part of a multidimensional model of schizotypy and schizophrenia. Prior studies treating schizotypy and schizophrenia as homogenous constructs often produce equivocal or non-replicable results because these dimensions are associated with distinct etiologies, presentations, and treatment responses; thus, the present conceptualization of paranoia within a multidimensional schizotypy framework should advance our understanding of these constructs.
Risk Factors Associated with Uncomplicated Peptic Ulcer and Changes in Medication Use after Diagnosis

Background Few epidemiologic studies have investigated predictors of uncomplicated peptic ulcer disease (PUD) separately from predictors of complicated PUD. Objective To analyze risk factors associated with uncomplicated PUD and medication use after diagnosis. Methods Patients diagnosed with uncomplicated PUD (n = 3,914) were identified from The Health Improvement Network database among individuals aged 40–84 years during 1997–2005, with no previous history of PUD. Prescription records for the year after the date of diagnosis were reviewed and a nested case–control analysis was performed to calculate the odds ratios for the association of potential risk factors with PUD. Results Medications associated with developing uncomplicated PUD included current use of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), paracetamol, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, antidepressants, antihypertensives or acid suppressants. Uncomplicated PUD was significantly associated with being a current or former smoker and having had a score of at least 3 on the Townsend deprivation index. Approximately 50% of patients who were users of ASA (19% of patients) or chronic users of NSAIDs (7% of patients) at diagnosis did not receive another prescription of the medication in the 60 days after diagnosis, and 30% were not represcribed therapy within a year. Among patients who were current users of ASA or chronic NSAIDs at the time of the PUD diagnosis and received a subsequent prescription for their ASA or NSAID during the following year, the vast majority (80–90%) also received a proton pump inhibitor coprescription. Conclusions Our results indicate that several risk factors for upper gastrointestinal bleeding are also predictors of uncomplicated PUD, and that some patients do not restart therapy with ASA or NSAIDs after a diagnosis of uncomplicated PUD. Further investigation is needed regarding the consequences for these patients in terms of increased cardiovascular burden due to discontinuation of antiplatelet therapy.
Sustaining Fixed Rates: The Political Economy of Currency Pegs in Latin America

Government exchange rate regime choice is constrained by both political and economic factors. One political factor is the role of special interests: the larger the tradable sectors exposed to international competition, the less likely is the maintenance of a fixed exchange rate regime. Another political factor is electoral: as an election approaches, the probability of the maintenance of a fixed exchange rate increases. We test these arguments with hazard models to analyze the duration dependence of Latin American exchange rate arrangements from 1960 to 1999. We find substantial empirical evidence for these propositions. Results are robust to the inclusion of a variety of other economic and political variables, to different time and country samples, and to different definitions of regime arrangement. Controlling for economic factors, a one percentage point increase in the size of the manufacturing sector is associated with a reduction of six months in the longevity of a country's currency peg. An impending election increases the conditional likelihood of staying on a peg by about 8 percent, while the aftershock of an election conversely increases the conditional probability of going off a peg by 4 percent.
Adolescent Experiences of Clinician–Patient HIV/STI Communication in Primary Care

ABSTRACT Effective clinician–patient communication is linked to positive patient health outcomes in adults, yet the research on adolescent populations remains limited. We describe adolescent experiences of clinician–patient HIV/STI communication through qualitative interviews with predominantly African-American adolescent women from a youth-centered primary care clinic. Participants described acknowledging clinicians are professionals, the importance of confidentiality to foster clinician–adolescent communication, and calling for clinician-initiated HIV/STI communication. Adolescents expressed the necessity for clinicians to engage youth in these challenging conversations through an open and understanding approach. Additionally, adolescents described experiences of perceived judgment and uncomfortableness from clinicians, and non-disclosure of HIV/STI risk behaviors to their clinician. Findings underscore the adolescents’ desire to engage in HIV/STI communication with healthcare providers, while highlighting important strategies for clinicians. Results can inform health communication research and practice, and the development of interventions aimed at increasing clinician–adolescent HIV/STI communication.
Impulsive waves in de Sitter and anti-de Sitter spacetimes generated by null particles with an arbitrary multipole structure

We describe a class of impulsive gravitational waves which propagate either in a de Sitter or an anti-de Sitter background. They are conformal to impulsive waves of Kundt's class. In a background with positive cosmological constant they are spherical (but non-expanding) waves generated by pairs of particles with arbitrary multipole structure propagating in opposite directions. When the cosmological constant is negative, they are hyperboloidal waves generated by a null particle of the same type. In this case, they are included in the impulsive limit of a class of solutions described by Siklos that are conformal to pp-waves.
The Relationship between Parasite Fitness and Host Condition in an Insect - Virus System

Research in host-parasite evolutionary ecology has demonstrated that environmental variation plays a large role in mediating the outcome of parasite infection. For example, crowding or low food availability can reduce host condition and make them more vulnerable to parasite infection. This observation that poor-condition hosts often suffer more from parasite infection compared to healthy hosts has led to the assumption that parasite productivity is higher in poor-condition hosts. However, the ubiquity of this negative relationship between host condition and parasite fitness is unknown. Moreover, examining the effect of environmental variation on parasite fitness has been largely overlooked in the host-parasite literature. Here we investigate the relationship between parasite fitness and host condition by using a laboratory experiment with the cabbage looper Trichoplusia ni and its viral pathogen, AcMNPV, and by surveying published host-parasite literature. Our experiments demonstrated that virus productivity was positively correlated with host food availability and the literature survey revealed both positive and negative relationships between host condition and parasite fitness. Together these data demonstrate that contrary to previous assumptions, parasite fitness can be positively or negatively correlated with host fitness. We discuss the significance of these findings for host-parasite population biology.