Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Gender differences in the relationship between smoking and frailty: results from the Beijing Longitudinal Study of Aging.

BACKGROUND Smoking is common in China, where the population is aging rapidly. This study evaluated the relationship between smoking and frailty and their joint association with health and survival in older Chinese men and women. METHODS Data came from the Beijing Longitudinal Study of Aging, a representative cohort study with a 15-year follow-up. Community-dwelling people (n = 3257) aged more than 55 years at baseline were followed between 1992 and 2007, during which time 51% died. A frailty index (FI) was constructed from 28 self-reported health deficits. RESULTS Almost half (1,485 people; 45.6%) of the participants reported smoking at baseline (66.8% men, 25.3% women). On average, male smokers were frailer (FI = 0.17±0.13) than male nonsmokers (FI = 0.13±0.10; p = .038). No such differences were seen in women. Men who smoked had the lowest survival probability; female nonsmokers had the highest. Compared with female nonsmokers, the risk of death for male smokers was 1.58 (95% CI = 1.41-1.95; p < .001), adjusted for age and education. Across all FI values, female smokers and male nonsmokers had comparable survival rates. CONCLUSION Smoking was associated with an increased rate of both worsening health and mortality. At all levels of health status, as defined by deficit accumulation, women who smoked lost the survival advantage conferred by their sex.
Laser microbeam surgery: ultrastructural changes associated with neurite transection in culture

The exposure of neuronal and glial cell processes to a large number (up to 300) of 12-nsec laser pulses at a wavelength of 337 nm and energy densities below the threshold for nonlinear absorption results in a gradual, gentle process transection in the laser focus. Within 10 to 20 sec after cessation of firing, the process pinches in the target area. During this time, mitochondria become swollen and bleached, the plasma membrane develops an obvious tautness, microtubules disappear, and organelles accumulate to either side of the process constriction. Depending on the irradiation parameters, a local pinching may proceed to a transection in about 30 sec or it may reverse to yield a normal- appearing process in approximately 5 min. Severe process pinching is accompanied by a sudden depolarization that may last for 2 to 5 min and is usually followed by a repolarization to the original resting potential even if the process has transected. Spiral retraction of cut processes and cytoplasmic spillage observed after mechanical transections are not seen with this laser method. Process stretching is minimized or eliminated. Extensive vacuolization often associated with mechanical transections does not develop unless substrate involvement in the form of shock waves is apparent. For the performance of cell surgery in culture, this method appears to offer a reliable approach to morphological alteration of single cells and to the tailoring of two- dimensional neuronal networks. It should also allow more quantitative and better-controlled studies of axonotmesis, degeneration, and regeneration on the single cell level, and it may be used as a probe for the investigation of cytoskeletal dynamics. A mechanism describing the cytoskeletal changes associated with laser-induced cell process transection is proposed.
Consideration of Water Uses for Its Sustainable Management, the Case of Issyk-Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan

Water is an essential element for life, and development would not be possible without its availability. This study identified the main water consumers and their likely impact on water lake level for the case of Issyk-Kul Lake Basin, Kyrgyzstan. Data on precipitation, lake level, irrigation, household and industrial water consumption from 1980 to 2014 were provided by the Department of Water Resources and Irrigation, Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation of the Kyrgyz Republic. The input data was analyzed with OriginPro 8.5 for Statistical Analysis. The results indicated a decreasing irrigation water consumption from 2029.42 to 461.76 million·m3 in 1980 and 2014, respectively. Likewise, households consumed 27.02 million·m3 in 1980 falling to 16.55 million·m3 in 2014, similar to the manufacture’s water consumption. However, it was noted that agriculture is a high water consumer, whose water demand for irrigation rises from April to August, the period during which the precipitation also increases. Nevertheless, manufactures and household water consumption do not have timed limits of use like in agriculture, which in turn affects the lake water level. Therefore, as the rainfall increases by April to August, we suggest to harvest and only use the rainfall water during its abundance period. This would help in restoring the lake’s water level during the time of rainwater uses, and leads to water consumption balance, flood management and lake biodiversity conservation as well.
The impact of the perception of rhythmic music on self-paced oscillatory movements

Inspired by theories of perception-action coupling and embodied music cognition, we investigated how rhythmic music perception impacts self-paced oscillatory movements. In a pilot study, we examined the kinematic parameters of self-paced oscillatory movements, walking and finger tapping using optical motion capture. In accordance with biomechanical constraints accounts of motion, we found that movements followed a hierarchical organization depending on the proximal/distal characteristic of the limb used. Based on these findings, we were interested in knowing how and when the perception of rhythmic music could resonate with the motor system in the context of these constrained oscillatory movements. In order to test this, we conducted an experiment where participants performed four different effector-specific movements (lower leg, whole arm and forearm oscillation and finger tapping) while rhythmic music was playing in the background. Musical stimuli consisted of computer-generated MIDI musical pieces with a 4/4 metrical structure. The musical tempo of each song increased from 60 BPM to 120 BPM by 6 BPM increments. A specific tempo was maintained for 20 s before a 2 s transition to the higher tempo. The task of the participant was to maintain a comfortable pace for the four movements (self-paced) while not paying attention to the music. No instruction on whether to synchronize with the music was given. Results showed that participants were distinctively influenced by the background music depending on the movement used with the tapping task being consistently the most influenced. Furthermore, eight strategies put in place by participants to cope with the task were unveiled. Despite not instructed to do so, participants also occasionally synchronized with music. Results are discussed in terms of the link between perception and action (i.e., motor/perceptual resonance). In general, our results give support to the notion that rhythmic music is processed in a motoric fashion.
Estimation of 3D faces and illumination from single photographs using a bilinear illumination model

3D Face modeling is still one of the biggest challenges in computer graphics. In this paper we present a novel framework that acquires the 3D shape, texture, pose and illumination of a face from a single photograph. Additionally, we show how we can recreate a face under varying illumination conditions. Or, essentially relight it. Using a custom-built face scanning system, we have collected 3D face scans and light reflection images of a large and diverse group of human subjects. We derive a morphable face model for 3D face shapes and accompanying textures by transforming the data into a linear vector sub-space. The acquired images of faces under variable illumination are then used to derive a bilinear illumination model that spans 3D face shape and illumination variations. Using both models we, in turn, propose a novel fitting framework that estimates the parameters of the morphable model given a single photograph. Our framework can deal with complex face reflectance and lighting environments in an efficient and robust manner. In the results section of our paper, we compare our methods to existing ones and demonstrate its efficacy in reconstructing 3D face models when provided with a single photograph. We also provide several examples of facial relighting (on 2D images) by performing adequate decomposition of the estimated illumination using our framework.
A Review of Passive Power Filters for Three-Phase Grid-Connected Voltage-Source Converters

In order to reduce size and cost, high-order passive filters are generally preferred in power converters to cancel out high-frequency harmonics caused by pulsewidth modulation. However, the filter resonance peaks may require the use of passive dampers to stabilize the interactions between the load and source impedances. Furthermore, the stabilizing effect is more difficult to be guaranteed for cost-optimized filters, which are characterized by low-inductance and high-capacitance passive components. In this paper, several passive filter topologies used to interface voltage-source converters with the utility grid are reviewed and evaluated in terms of damping capability, stored energy in the passive components, and power loss in the damping circuit. In addition, the influences of different switching frequencies of power converters on the passive filter design are discussed in the range 1-15 kHz. Illustrative design examples of the passive filters and experimental data are also provided.
COMPARISON OF CONFINEMENT MODELS FOR FIBER-REINFORCED POLYMER-WRAPPED CONCRETE

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) wrapping can be used to retrofit existing reinforced concrete columns and is gaining acceptance as an effective rehabilitation and strengthening technique. This article reviews some of the numerous analytical models that have been used to predict the stress-strain behavior of concrete confined by FRP wraps. The authors use these analytical models in the context of a large database of test results on FRP wrapped columns. Several of the existing models are modified to provide the best fit to the experimental database. The authors conclude that, because of the variability in the test data, it appears impossible to develop simple empirical models with less than 14% mean absolute error for ultimate strength and 35% mean absolute error for ultimate strain. Examination of two current North American guidelines for the design of FRP-confined concrete demonstrated that both the ISIS Canada guidelines and CSA S806 code are conservative with at least 99% confidence (when reduction factors are used).
Self-oscillating nanogel particles.

Nanogel particles composed of the cross-linked copolymer of N-isopropylacrylamide and ruthenium catalyst for the Belousov−Zhabotinsky (BZ) reaction were prepared by emulsion polymerization. In the aqueous solution containing the BZ substrates, self-oscillation of gel beads on the nanometer scale was achieved. By comparing the oscillating behaviors of the conventional BZ solution, the linear polymer solution, and the suspension of gel beads, the polymerization effect and the cross-linking effect were clarified. These self-oscillating gel beads have a potential for use in nanomachines as an oscillator.
On optimality of the barrier strategy in de Finetti’s dividend problem for spectrally negative Lévy processes

We consider the classical optimal dividend control problem which was proposed by de Finetti [Trans. XVth Internat. Congress Actuaries 2 (1957) 433-443]. Recently Avram, Palmowski and Pistorius [Ann. Appl. Probab. 17 (2007) 156-180] studied the case when the risk process is modeled by a general spectrally negative Levy process. We draw upon their results and give sufficient conditions under which the optimal strategy is of barrier type, thereby helping to explain the fact that this particular strategy is not optimal in general. As a consequence, we are able to extend considerably the class of processes for which the barrier strategy proves to be optimal.
Unrelated Machine Scheduling of Jobs with Uniform Smith Ratios

We consider the classic problem of scheduling jobs on unrelated machines so as to minimize the weighted sum of completion times. Recently, for a small constant e > 0, Bansal et al. gave a (3/2 − e)-approximation algorithm improving upon the "natural" barrier of 3/2 which follows from independent randomized rounding. In simplified terms, their result is obtained by an enhancement of independent randomized rounding via strong negative correlation properties. In this work, we take a different approach and propose to use the same elegant rounding scheme for the weighted completion time objective as devised by Shmoys and Tardos for optimizing a linear function subject to makespan constraints. Our main result is a 1.21-approximation algorithm for the natural special case where the weight of a job is proportional to its processing time (specifically, all jobs have the same Smith ratio), which expresses the notion that each unit of work has the same weight. In addition, as a direct consequence of the rounding, our algorithm also achieves a bi-criteria 2-approximation for the makespan objective. Our technical contribution is a tight analysis of the expected cost of the solution compared to the one given by the Configuration-LP relaxation - we reduce this task to that of understanding certain worst-case instances which are simple to analyze.
Using the Kleinberg Algorithm and Vector Space Model for Software System Clustering

Clustering based approaches are generally difficult to use in practice since they need a significant human interaction for recovering software architectures, are conceived for a specific programming language, and very often do not use design knowledge (e.g., the implemented architectural model). In this paper we present a clustering based approach to recover the implemented architecture of software systems with a hierarchical structure and implemented with any object oriented programming language. The approach is based on the combination of structural and lexical dimensions. The structural dimension is used to decompose a software system into layers (i.e., horizontal decomposition), while the lexical dimension is then employed to partition each layer (i.e., vertical decomposition) into software modules. Layers are identified using a well known and widely employed link analysis algorithm, i.e., the Kleinberg algorithm, while Vector Space Model is used to vertically decompose the layers. To assess the approach and the underlying techniques, we also present a prototype of a supporting tool and the results from a case study conducted on subsequent versions of three open source Java software systems.
The incidence and nature of in-hospital adverse events: a systematic review

Introduction: Adverse events in hospitals constitute a serious problem with grave consequences. Many studies have been conducted to gain an insight into this problem, but a general overview of the data is lacking. We performed a systematic review of the literature on in-hospital adverse events. Methods: A formal search of Embase, Cochrane and Medline was performed. Studies were reviewed independently for methodology, inclusion and exclusion criteria and endpoints. Primary endpoints were incidence of in-hospital adverse events and percentage of preventability. Secondary endpoints were adverse event outcome and subdivision by provider of care, location and type of event. Results: Eight studies including a total of 74 485 patient records were selected. The median overall incidence of in-hospital adverse events was 9.2%, with a median percentage of preventability of 43.5%. More than half (56.3%) of patients experienced no or minor disability, whereas 7.4% of events were lethal. Operation- (39.6%) and medication-related (15.1%) events constituted the majority. We present a summary of evidence-based interventions aimed at these categories of events. Conclusions: Adverse events during hospital admission affect nearly one out of 10 patients. A substantial part of these events are preventable. Since a large proportion of the in-hospital events are operation- or drug-related, interventions aimed at preventing these events have the potential to make a substantial difference.
Vaccination with Recombinant Microneme Proteins Confers Protection against Experimental Toxoplasmosis in Mice

Toxoplasmosis, a zoonotic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii, is an important public health problem and veterinary concern. Although there is no vaccine for human toxoplasmosis, many attempts have been made to develop one. Promising vaccine candidates utilize proteins, or their genes, from microneme organelle of T. gondii that are involved in the initial stages of host cell invasion by the parasite. In the present study, we used different recombinant microneme proteins (TgMIC1, TgMIC4, or TgMIC6) or combinations of these proteins (TgMIC1-4 and TgMIC1-4-6) to evaluate the immune response and protection against experimental toxoplasmosis in C57BL/6 mice. Vaccination with recombinant TgMIC1, TgMIC4, or TgMIC6 alone conferred partial protection, as demonstrated by reduced brain cyst burden and mortality rates after challenge. Immunization with TgMIC1-4 or TgMIC1-4-6 vaccines provided the most effective protection, since 70% and 80% of mice, respectively, survived to the acute phase of infection. In addition, these vaccinated mice, in comparison to non-vaccinated ones, showed reduced parasite burden by 59% and 68%, respectively. The protective effect was related to the cellular and humoral immune responses induced by vaccination and included the release of Th1 cytokines IFN-γ and IL-12, antigen-stimulated spleen cell proliferation, and production of antigen-specific serum antibodies. Our results demonstrate that microneme proteins are potential vaccines against T. gondii, since their inoculation prevents or decreases the deleterious effects of the infection.
Low-voltage micropower multipliers with reduced spurious switching

We describe micropower low-voltage (1.1V) low switching activity array multipliers for power-critical low speed (/spl les/5MHz) applications. These multipliers feature the lowest power dissipation (18.8 /spl mu/W/MHz or /spl sim/32% lower for 16-bit and 76.7 /spl mu/W/MHz or /spl sim/53% lower for 32-bit) and lowest energy-delay-product (but slightly reduced speed) of all multipliers compared by using a 0.35 /spl mu/m CMOS process. We obtain these attributes by virtually eliminating the spurious switching by means of proposed latch adders and chronologically timing their assertions by means of delay circuits. We also analyze the switching activity of the different multipliers and verify our results based on the post-layout computer simulations and on measurements on prototype IC.
The implication problem of data dependencies over SQL table definitions: Axiomatic, algorithmic and logical characterizations

We investigate the implication problem for classes of data dependencies over SQL table definitions. Under Zaniolo's “no information” interpretation of null markers we establish an axiomatization and algorithms to decide the implication problem for the combined class of functional and multivalued dependencies in the presence of NOT NULL constraints. The resulting theory subsumes three previously orthogonal frameworks. We further show that the implication problem of this class is equivalent to that in a propositional fragment of Schaerf and Cadoli's [1995] family of para-consistent S-3 logics. In particular, S is the set of variables that correspond to attributes declared NOT NULL. We also show how our equivalences for multivalued dependencies can be extended to Delobel's class of full first-order hierarchical decompositions, and the equivalences for functional dependencies can be extended to arbitrary Boolean dependencies. These dualities allow us to transfer several findings from the propositional fragments to the corresponding classes of data dependencies, and vice versa. We show that our results also apply to Codd's null interpretation “value unknown at present”, but not to Imielinski's [1989] or-relations utilizing Levene and Loizou's weak possible world semantics [Levene and Loizou 1998]. Our findings establish NOT NULL constraints as an effective mechanism to balance not only the certainty in database relations but also the expressiveness with the efficiency of entailment relations. They also control the degree by which the implication of data dependencies over total relations is soundly approximated in SQL table definitions.
CagA of Helicobacter pylori interacts with and inhibits the serine‐threonine kinase PRK2

CagA is a multifunctional toxin of Helicobacter pylori that is secreted into host epithelial cells by a type IV secretion system. Following host cell translocation, CagA interferes with various host–cell signalling pathways. Most notably this toxin is involved in the disruption of apical–basolateral cell polarity and cell adhesion, as well as in the induction of cell proliferation, migration and cell morphological changes. These are processes that also play an important role in epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition and cancer cell invasion. In fact, CagA is considered as the only known bacterial oncoprotein. The cellular effects are triggered by a variety of CagA activities including the inhibition of serine–threonine kinase Par1b/MARK2 and the activation of tyrosine phosphatase SHP‐2. Additionally, CagA was described to affect the activity of Src family kinases and C‐terminal Src kinase (Csk) suggesting that interference with multiple cellular kinase‐ and phosphatase‐associated signalling pathways is a major function of CagA. Here, we describe the effect of CagA on protein kinase C‐related kinase 2 (PRK2), which acts downstream of Rho GTPases and is known to affect cytoskeletal rearrangements and cell polarity. CagA interacts with PRK2 and inhibits its kinase activity. Because PRK2 has been linked to cytoskeletal rearrangements and establishment of cell polarity, we suggest that CagA may hijack PRK2 to further manipulate cancer‐related signalling pathways.
The Frontal Behavioral Inventory in the differential diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia

A personality and behavioral disorder is an important and defining feature of frontal lobe dementia (FLD) or frontotemporal degeneration (FTD). The diagnosis usually depends on the progressive development of various behavioral symptoms rather than a set of neuropsychological measures. Quantification of the personality–behavior disorder is important for standardizing the diagnosis. An inventory was constructed to capture the major positive and negative behaviors and personality change, and it was administered prospectively to caregivers of 108 patients in a cognitive neurology clinic, at the time of first diagnostic assessment. The prevalence and extent of behavioral abnormality was quantitated in the clinic population of FLD, vascular dementia (VaD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), primary progressive aphasia (PPA), and depressive disorder (DD) patients. The mean scores of FLD patients were significantly above all other groups. Scores in VaD were also higher than in AD, PPA, and DD. Interrater reliability (Cohen's kappa of .90) and item consistency (a Cronbach alpha of .89) were both high. Perseveration, indifference, inattention, inappropriateness, and loss of insight rated highest in FLD, significantly different from all other groups. Apathy, aspontaneity, inflexibility, disorganization, impulsivity, personal neglect, and poor judgment were also significantly higher in FLD. Discriminant function correctly classified 92.7% versus all other patients (NON-FLD) in the study. A total of 18.8% of VaD patients were misclassified as FLD. Indifference, alien hand, and inappropriateness were the highest discriminant functions. Perseveration and verbal apraxia were important discriminatory items for FLD and PPA, respectively. The FBI is a standardized behavioral inventory useful to diagnose FLD, to differentiate it from other dementias, and to quantify the behavior disorder. (JINS, 2000, 6, 460–468.)