Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comparative study between the hand-wrist method and cervical vertebral maturation method for evaluation skeletal maturity in cleft patients.

OBJECTIVE To test the measure of agreement between use of the Skeletal Maturation Index (SMI) method of Fishman using hand-wrist radiographs and the Cervical Vertebral Maturation Index (CVMI) method for assessing skeletal maturity of the cleft patients. MATERIAL AND METHOD Hand-wrist and lateral cephalometric radiographs of 60 cleft subjects (35 females and 25 males, age range: 7-16 years) were used. Skeletal age was assessed using an adjustment to the SMI method of Fishman to compare with the CVMI method of Hassel and Farman. Agreement between skeletal age assessed by both methods and the intra- and inter-examiner reliability of both methods were tested by weighted kappa analysis. RESULTS There was good agreement between the two methods with a kappa value of 0.80 (95% CI = 0.66-0.88, p-value <0.001). Reliability of intra- and inter-examiner of both methods was very good with kappa value ranging from 0.91 to 0.99. CONCLUSION The CVMI method can be used as an alternative to the SMI method in skeletal age assessment in cleft patients with the benefit of no need of an additional radiograph and avoiding extra-radiation exposure. Comparing the two methods, the present study found better agreement from peak of adolescence onwards.
Explaining the intention to use technology among pre-service teachers: a multi-group analysis of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology

Pre-service teachers’ self-reported intentions to use information technology were studied. Two hundred and sixty-four participants completed a survey questionnaire measuring their responses to four constructs (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions) derived from the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology [UTAUT; Venkatesh, V. , Morris, M.G. , Davis, G. , & Davis, F.D. (2003). User acceptance of information technology: Toward a unified view. MIS Quarterly, 27, 425–478]. Structural equation modelling showed that the UTAUT is a useful model in explaining pre-service teachers’ intention to use technology. However, multi-group analyses revealed that gender and age had moderated the UTAUT in ways that were different from Venkatesh et al. A possible explanation is that the strength and influences of the core determinants of the UTAUT may work differently when applied to another culture.
Providing information and shaping attitudes about nuclear dangers: implications for public education

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of three different stimulus materials on knowledge about and attitudes toward nuclear weapons. A questionnaire including both knowledge and attitude items was administered to students at a small liberal arts college in North Carolina: (1) after they had been shown "Protection in a Nuclear Age, " a movie produced and distributed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA); (2) after they had been shown "The Last Epidemic" a movie produced by Physicians for Social Responsibility; (3) after they had read The Fate of the Earth, a book written by Jonathan Schell; or (4) with no prior stimulus material. Results indicated that those who saw "The Last Epidemic" or read The Fate of the Earth were more informed than the control group, but those who saw "Protection in a Nuclear Age" were not. In addition, those who saw "Protection in a Nuclear Age" were more optimistic than the control group about the likelihood of surviving a nuclear war, those who saw "The Last Epidemic" or read The Fate of the Earth saw greater dangers in the power and effects of nuclear weapons. These findings are discussed in terms of their implications for public education.
Glycosphingolipid-enriched, detergent-insoluble complexes in protein sorting in epithelial cells.

In simple epithelial cells, the delivery of apical and basolateral proteins to the cell surface is mediated by sorting in the trans-Golgi network and transport via separate vesicular carriers. In order to identify the molecular machinery involved in protein sorting, we have recently studied a detergent-insoluble complex in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, following CHAPS extraction of exocytic carrier vesicles, specifically including the apical marker protein influenza hemagglutinin (HA). Previously, a Triton X-100 insoluble membrane residue that was enriched in glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored (GPI) proteins and glycolipids was characterized and implicated in transport to the apical cell surface [Brown, D. , & Rose, J. (1991) Cell 68, 533-544]. In this report, the protein compositions of the CHAPS and Triton complexes have been compared by two-dimensional gel analysis. Only a few major membrane proteins are found in the complexes. The protein compositions are qualitatively similar, but differ quantitatively in the individual components. The CHAPS complex is depleted of GPI-linked proteins and retains a minor fraction of lipids similar in composition to that of the Triton X-100 insoluble complex. We propose that in vivo the complexes form part of a sorting platform that mediates protein segregation and delivery to the apical cell surface.
Democracy, Trust, and Epistemic Justice

I analyze the relation between deliberative democracy and trust through the lens of epistemic justice. I argue for three main claims: (i) the deliberative impasse dividing majority and minority groups in many democracies is due to a particular type of epistemic injustice, which I call ‘hermeneutical domination’; (ii) undoing hermeneutical domination requires epistemic trust; and (iii) this epistemic trust is supported by the three deliberative democratic requirements of equality, legitimacy, and accountability. In arguing for those claims, I contribute to the conceptualization of both epistemic injustice and domination, as well as to discussions of trust and deliberative democracy.
Precoded Spatial Multiplexing MIMO for Inhome Power Line Communications

Inhome power line communications (PLC) enables new and highly convenient networking functions without any additional wires to mains-powered devices. Multiple input multiple output (MIMO) methods can significantly increase the PLC channel throughput and the link reliability. In this paper precoded spatial multiplexing is considered in more detail since it offers the best possible data throughput in the PLC channel. Precoded spatial multiplexing requires channel state information (CSI) at the transmitter. CSI feedback possibilities as well as appropriate quantization methods to reduce the amount of feedback data are investigated. We also present a new power allocation algorithm in conjunction with adaptive modulation.
The non-shock of PIAAC – Tracing the discursive effects of PIAAC in Denmark

The results of the first PIAAC survey were published in October 2013. In the case of Denmark, the survey showed that Denmark is below the OECD average when it comes to reading skills, above average with regards to numeracy and on average with regards to IT skills. In this paper we analyse how the PIAAC results were covered by the media and how different stakeholders within the field of adult literacy took PIAAC as an opportunity to try to influence how the problem of adult literacy in Denmark should be represented. The analysis is based on Bacchi’s What’s the problem represented to be? approach to policy analysis (2009) and Kingdon (1984), and Zahariadis’ (2003) multiple streams theory. The analysis shows that PIAAC did not provoke the same kind of national ‘shock’ as PISA and that adult literacy is low on the political agenda compared to basic schooling.
Evaluating the performance of information retrieval systems using test collections

Introduction -Evaluation is highly important for designing, developing and maintaining effective information retrieval or search systems as it allows the measurement of how successfully an information retrieval system meets its goal of helping users fulfil their information needs. But what does it mean to be successful? It might refer to whether an information retrieval system retrieves relevant (compared with non-relevant) documents; how quickly results are returned; how well the system supports users' interactions; whether users are satisfied with the results; how easily users can use the system; whether the system helps users carry out their tasks and fulfil their information needs; whether the system impacts on the wider environment; how reliable the system is etc. Evaluation of information retrieval systems has been actively researched for over 50 years and continues to be an area of discussion and controversy. Test collections - In this paper we discuss system-oriented evaluation that focuses on measuring system effectiveness: how well an information retrieval system can separate relevant from non-relevant documents for a given user query. We discuss the construction and use of standardised benchmarks - test collections - for evaluating information retrieval systems. Research directions - The paper also describes current and future research directions for test collection-based evaluation, including efficient gathering of relevance assessments, the relationship between system effectiveness and user utility, and evaluation across user sessions. Conclusions - This paper describes test collections which have been widely used in information retrieval evaluation and provide an approach for measuring system effectiveness.
Pedestrian Imaging Using UWB Doppler Radar Interferometry

The imaging of humans using radar is promising for surveillance systems. Although conventional radar systems detect the presence or position of intruders, it is difficult to acquire shape and motion details because the resolution is insufficient. This paper presents a high-resolution human imaging algorithm for an ultra-wideband (UWB) Doppler radar. The proposed algorithm estimates three-dimensional human images using interferometry and, using velocity information, rejects false images created by the interference of body parts. Experiments verify that our proposed algorithm achieves adequate pedestrian imaging. In addition, accurate shape and motion parameters are extracted from the estimated images. key words: human imaging, pedestrian imaging, UWB Doppler radar, interferometry, false image rejection
GPVI and CLEC‐2 in hemostasis and vascular integrity

Summary. The glycoprotein VI (GPVI)–FcR γ‐chain complex initiates powerful activation of platelets by the subendothelial matrix proteins collagen and laminin through an immunoreceptor tyrosine‐based activation motif (ITAM)‐regulated signaling pathway. ITAMs are characterized by two YxxL sequences separated by 6–12 amino acids and are found associated with several classes of immunoglobulin (Ig) and C‐type lectin receptors in hematopoietic cells, including Fc receptors. Cross‐linking of the Ig GPVI leads to phosphorylation of two conserved tyrosines in the FcR γ‐chain ITAM by Src family tyrosine kinases, followed by binding and activation of the tandem SH2 domain‐containing Syk tyrosine kinase and stimulation of a downstream signaling cascade that culminates in activation of phospholipase Cγ2 (PLCγ2). In contrast, the C‐type lectin receptor CLEC‐2 mediates powerful platelet activation through Src and Syk kinases, but regulates Syk through a novel dimerization mechanism via a single YxxL motif known as a hemITAM. CLEC‐2 is a receptor for podoplanin, which is expressed at high levels in several tissues, including type 1 lung alveolar cells, lymphatic endothelial cells, kidney podocytes and some tumors, but is absent from vascular endothelial cells and platelets. In this article, we compare the mechanism of platelet activation by GPVI and CLEC‐2 and consider their functional roles in hemostasis and other vascular processes, including maintenance of vascular integrity, angiogenesis and lymphogenesis.
Poor Nutrition Status and Associated Feeding Practices among HIV-Positive Children in a Food Secure Region in Tanzania: A Call for Tailored Nutrition Training

Undernutrition among HIV-positive children can be ameliorated if they are given adequate foods in the right frequency and diversity. Food insecurity is known to undermine such efforts, but even in food rich areas, people have undernutrition. As yet no study has examined feeding practices and their associations with nutrition status among as HIV-positive children in regions with high food production. We therefore examined the magnitude of undernutrition and its association with feeding practices among HIV-positive children in a high food production region in Tanzania. Methods We conducted this mixed-method study among 748 children aged 6 months-14 years attending 9 of a total of 32 care and treatment centers in Tanga region, Tanzania. We collected quantitative data using a standard questionnaire and qualitative data through seven focus group discussions (FGDs). Results HIV-positive children had high magnitudes of undernutrition. Stunting, underweight, wasting, and thinness were prevalent among 61.9%, 38.7%, 26.0%, and 21.1% of HIV-positive children, respectively. They also had poor feeding practices: 88.1% were fed at a frequency below the recommendations, and 62.3% had a low level of dietary diversity. Lower feeding frequency was associated with stunting (β = 0.11, p = 0.016); underweight (β = 0.12, p = 0.029); and thinness (β = 0.11, p = 0.026). Lower feeding frequency was associated with low wealth index (β = 0.06, p<0.001), food insecurity (β = −0.05, p<0.001), and caregiver's education. In the FGDs, participants discussed the causal relationships among the key associations; undernutrition was mainly due to low feeding frequency and dietary diversity. Such poor feeding practices resulted from poor nutrition knowledge, food insecurity, low income, and poverty. Conclusion Feeding practices and nutrition status were poor among HIV-positive children even in food rich areas. Improving feeding frequency may help to ameliorate undernutrition. To improve it, tailored interventions should target children of poor households, the food insecure, and caregivers who have received only a low level of education.
Modulation of the glyoxalase system in the aging model Podospora anserina: effects on growth and lifespan

The eukaryotic glyoxalase system consists of two enzymatic components, glyoxalase I (lactoylglutathione lyase) and glyoxalase II (hydroxyacylglutathione hydrolase). These enzymes are dedicated to the removal of toxic α-oxoaldehydes like methylglyoxal (MG). MG is formed as a by-product of glycolysis and MG toxicity results from its damaging capability leading to modifications of proteins, lipids and nucleic acids. An efficient removal of MG appears to be essential to ensure cellular functionality and viability. Here we study the effects of the genetic modulation of genes encoding the components of the glyoxalase system in the filamentous ascomycete and aging model Podospora anserina. Overexpression of PaGlo1 leads to a lifespan reduction on glucose rich medium, probably due to depletion of reduced glutathione. Deletion of PaGlo1 leads to hypersensitivity against MG added to the growth medium. A beneficial effect on lifespan is observed when both PaGlo1 and PaGlo2 are overexpressed and the corresponding strains are grown on media containing increased glucose concentrations. Notably, the double mutant has a ‘healthy’ phenotype without physiological impairments. Moreover, PaGlo1/PaGlo2_OEx strains are not long-lived on media containing standard glucose concentrations suggesting a tight correlation between the efficiency and capacity to remove MG within the cell, the level of available glucose and lifespan. Overall, our results identify the up-regulation of both components of the glyoxalase system as an effective intervention to increase lifespan in P. anserina.
Motorbike Driver's Decision Models for Drinking and Driving Behavior

Drinking alcohol reduces driver's ability to do safely and increases risks of crashes. Behavioral models were applied and developed to understand the driver's decision for drinking and driving (DAD) behavior. Theory of Planned Behavior model, Health Belief model and Integrated Behavior model were included then Integrated Behavior model was proved to be the best model for predicting both intentions and behavior of DAD. The most significant factors of the driver's decision models were subjective norm, affective attitude and behavioral intention. These findings could help the local authority to propose factors for proper intervention programs and policies in order to minimize efficiently the DAD behavior of drivers.
6-Thioguanine Levels in Pediatric IBD Patients: Adherence Is More Important than Dose

Background:Thiopurine immunosuppressants such as 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) are widely used to maintain remission in children with both Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Therapeutic efficacy is associated with higher red blood cell levels of the thiopurine metabolite 6-thioguanine (6-TGN). Studies in both children and adults have inexplicably failed to demonstrate a significant correlation between prescribed dose and level of 6-TGN. We aimed to quantify the relationship between 6-TGN levels and adherence. Methods:We used electronic monitoring devices to assess adherence in children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel diseases who were prescribed 6-MP. Results:During 3230 days of monitoring in 19 subjects, adherence to 6-MP was 74.2%. Due to the generally low adherence to the prescribed dose of 6-MP, the 6-TGN level was not correlated with the prescribed dose. The 6-TGN level was significantly correlated with the adherence-adjusted dose (R2 = 0.395). It was also significantly correlated to adherence alone (R2 = 0.478). Adherence to 5-aminosalicylic acid and 6-MP were significantly positively correlated (rs (9) = 0.82, P = 0.00), and a significant relationship was found between 5-aminosalicylic acid adherence and 6-TGN levels independent of 6-MP adherence. Furthermore, low adherence to 6-MP was associated with increased likelihood of escalation of medical therapy. Conclusions:Red blood cell 6-TGN levels are strongly correlated with the dose, when the dose is actually taken. Lack of efficacy of thiopurines may often be the result of poor adherence. Novel ways of assessing and improving adherence are necessary. Future trials should assess adherence in study participants. Intake of 5-aminosalicylic acid positively influences 6-TGN levels.
A Meiotic Drive Element in the Maize Pathogen Fusarium verticillioides Is Located Within a 102 kb Region of Chromosome V

Fusarium verticillioides is an agriculturally important fungus because of its association with maize and its propensity to contaminate grain with toxic compounds. Some isolates of the fungus harbor a meiotic drive element known as Spore killer (SkK) that causes nearly all surviving meiotic progeny from an SkK × Spore killer-susceptible (SkS) cross to inherit the SkK allele. SkK has been mapped to chromosome V but the genetic element responsible for meiotic drive has yet to be identified. In this study, we used cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence markers to genotype individual progeny from an SkK × SkS mapping population. We also sequenced the genomes of three progeny from the mapping population to determine their single nucleotide polymorphisms. These techniques allowed us to refine the location of SkK to a contiguous 102 kb interval of chromosome V, herein referred to as the Sk region. Relative to SkS genotypes, SkK genotypes have one extra gene within this region for a total of 42 genes. The additional gene in SkK genotypes, herein named SKC1 for Spore Killer Candidate 1, is the most highly expressed gene from the Sk region during early stages of sexual development. The Sk region also has three hyper-variable regions, the longest of which includes SKC1. The possibility that SKC1, or another gene from the Sk region, is an essential component of meiotic drive and spore killing is discussed.
Filter, Rank, and Transfer the Knowledge: Learning to Chat

Learning to chat is a fascinating machine learning task with many applications from user-modeling to artificial intelligence. However, most of the work to date relies on designing large hard-wired sets of rules. On the other hand, the growth of social networks on the web provides large quantities of conversational data, suggesting that the time is ripe to train chatbots in a more data driven way. A first step is to learn to chat by ranking the response repository to provide responses that are consistent with the user’s expectations. Here we use a three phase ranking approach for predicting suitable responses to a query in a conversation. Sentences are first filtered, then efficiently ranked, and then more precisely re-ranked in order to select the most suitable response. The filtering is done using part-of-speech tagging, hierarchical clustering, and entropy analysis methods. The first phase ranking is performed by generating a large set of high-level grammatical and conceptual features, exploiting dictionaries and similarity measurement resources such as wikipedia similarity graphs, and by ranking using a boosted regression tree (MART) classifier. The more precise (conceptual) ranking is performed by designing more conceptual features obtained from similarity measurement resources such as query refinement and suggestion systems, sentence paraphrasing techniques, LDA topic modeling and structural clustering, and entropy analysis over wikipedia similarity graphs. The sentences are then ranked according to the confidence of a Transfer AdaBoost classifier, trained using transfer-learning methods in which a classification over a large corpus of noisy twitter and live-journal data is considered as the source domain, and the collaborative ranking of actively collected conversations, which are labeled in an online framework using user feedback, is considered as the destination domain. We give results on the performance of each step, and on the accuracy of our three phase ranking framework.
Chronic Female Pelvic Pain—Part 2: Differential Diagnosis and Management

Abstract: Pelvic pain is a common condition. Treatment interventions have traditionally targeted biomedical conditions with variable success. Utilizing a systematic approach to examination of the pelvic girdle and related organ systems contained within the pelvis will aid the clinician in identifying the painful structure(s) as well as the associated impairments limiting functional recovery. From this, a complete management program can be instituted. The following description of gynecologic, urologic, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, and neurologic conditions that can cause or are associated with chronic pelvic pain leads to conservative management proposals based on the available evidence. Finally, nonoperative interventional strategies are described, which target the pain system from a cognitive behavioral perspective, address movement dysfunctions, and address interventional pain technique possibilities. ▪