Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Impact of oral self-care on incident functional disability in elderly Japanese: the Ohsaki Cohort 2006 study

Objectives To assess whether oral self-care (tooth brushing, regular dental visits and use of dentures) affects incident functional disability in elderly individuals with tooth loss. Design A 5.7-year prospective cohort study. Setting Ohsaki City, Japan. Participants 12 370 community-dwelling individuals aged 65 years and older. Primary outcome measures Incident functional disability (new long-term care insurance certification). Results The 5.7-year incidence rate of disability was 18.8%. In comparison with participants who had ≥20 teeth, the HRs (95% CIs) for incident functional disability among participants who had 10–19 and 0–9 teeth were 1.15 (1.01–1.30) and 1.20 (1.07–1.34), respectively (p trend<0.05). However, the corresponding values for those who brushed their teeth ≥2 times per day were not significantly higher in the ‘10–19 teeth’ and ‘0–9 teeth’ groups (HRs (95% CI) 1.05 (0.91–1.21) for participants with 10–19 teeth, and 1.09 (0.96–1.23) for participants with 0–9 teeth), although HRs for those who brushed their teeth <2 times per day were significantly higher (HRs (95% CI) 1.32 (1.12–1.55) for participants with 10–19 teeth, and 1.33 (1.17–1.51) for participants with 0–9 teeth). Such a negating association was not observed for other forms of oral self-care. Conclusions Tooth brushing may partially negate the increased risk of incident functional disability associated with having fewer remaining teeth.
Risk estimation model for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in the Japanese using multiple genetic markers

The genetic factors affecting the natural history of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), including the development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and NASH-derived hepatocellular carcinoma (NASH-HCC), are still unknown. In the current study, we sought to identify genetic factors related to the development of NAFLD, NASH, and NASH-HCC, and to establish risk-estimation models for them. For these purposes, 936 histologically proven NAFLD patients were recruited, and genome-wide association (GWA) studies were conducted for 902, including 476 NASH and 58 NASH-HCC patients, against 7,672 general-population controls. Risk estimations for NAFLD and NASH were then performed using the SNPs identified as having significant associations in the GWA studies. We found that rs2896019 in PNPLA3 [p = 2.3x10-31, OR (95%CI) = 1.85 (1.67–2.05)], rs1260326 in GCKR [p = 9.6x10-10, OR (95%CI) = 1.38(1.25–1.53)], and rs4808199 in GATAD2A [p = 2.3x10-8, OR (95%CI) = 1.37 (1.23–1.53)] were significantly associated with NAFLD. Notably, the number of risk alleles in PNPLA3 and GATAD2A was much higher in Matteoni type 4 (NASH) patients than in type 1, type 2, and type 3 NAFLD patients. In addition, we newly identified rs17007417 in DYSF [p = 5.2x10-7, OR (95%CI) = 2.74 (1.84–4.06)] as a SNP associated with NASH-HCC. Rs641738 in TMC4, which showed association with NAFLD in patients of European descent, was not replicated in our study (p = 0.73), although the complicated LD pattern in the region suggests the necessity for further investigation. The genetic variants of PNPLA3, GCKR, and GATAD2A were then used to estimate the risk for NAFLD. The obtained Polygenic Risk Scores showed that the risk for NAFLD increased with the accumulation of risk alleles [AUC (95%CI) = 0.65 (0.63–0.67)]. Conclusions: We demonstrated that NASH is genetically and clinically different from the other NAFLD subgroups. We also established risk-estimation models for NAFLD and NASH using multiple genetic markers. These models can be used to improve the accuracy of NAFLD diagnosis and to guide treatment decisions for patients.
Remote Patient Monitoring via Non-Invasive Digital Technologies: A Systematic Review

Abstract Background: We conducted a systematic literature review to identify key trends associated with remote patient monitoring (RPM) via noninvasive digital technologies over the last decade. Materials and Methods: A search was conducted in EMBASE and Ovid MEDLINE. Citations were screened for relevance against predefined selection criteria based on the PICOTS (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcomes, Timeframe, and Study Design) format. We included studies published between January 1, 2005 and September 15, 2015 that used RPM via noninvasive digital technology (smartphones/personal digital assistants [PDAs], wearables, biosensors, computerized systems, or multiple components of the formerly mentioned) in evaluating health outcomes compared to standard of care or another technology. Studies were quality appraised according to Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Results: Of 347 articles identified, 62 met the selection criteria. Most studies were randomized control trials with older adult populations, small sample sizes, and limited follow-up. There was a trend toward multicomponent interventions (n = 26), followed by smartphones/PDAs (n = 12), wearables (n = 11), biosensor devices (n = 7), and computerized systems (n = 6). Another key trend was the monitoring of chronic conditions, including respiratory (23%), weight management (17%), metabolic (18%), and cardiovascular diseases (16%). Although substantial diversity in health-related outcomes was noted, studies predominantly reported positive findings. Conclusions: This review will help decision makers develop a better understanding of the current landscape of peer-reviewed literature, demonstrating the utility of noninvasive RPM in various patient populations. Future research is needed to determine the effectiveness of RPM via noninvasive digital technologies in delivering patient healthcare benefits and the feasibility of large-scale implementation.
Novel Node-Ranking Approach and Multiple Topology Attributes-Based Embedding Algorithm for Single-Domain Virtual Network Embedding

Network virtualization (NV) is a promising approach to remove the ossification of current Internet. Virtual network embedding (VNE) is the key issue in NV which efficiently and effectively maps various of virtual networks (VNs), with different node and link resource requests, onto the shared substrate network(s) with finite underlying resources. Previous VNE algorithms in the literature are mostly heuristic. Single network topology attribute and each node’s local resources are assisted to rank nodes in most heuristic algorithms, leading to inefficient resource utilization of substrate network in the long run. To deal with this issue, we propose the network topology attribute and network resource-considered algorithm (VNE-NTANRC). The VNE-NTANRC algorithm adopts a novel node-ranking approach to rank all substrate and virtual nodes before embedding each given VN. The novel node-ranking approach has two subapproaches and considers five important network topology attributes and global network resources altogether. One subapproach is able to calculate all node values (NoV) directly. The other subapproach, stimulating from the Google PageRank website algorithm, enables to calculate NoVs in a stable state. Simulation results reveal that VNE-NTANRC algorithm outperforms typical and latest heuristic algorithms, only considering single network topology attribute and local resources.
Qualitative Assessment of a Blended Learning Intervention in an Undergraduate Nursing Course

Background: Nurses are experiencing new ethical issues because of global developments and changes in the healthcare environment. Blended learning is one of the various methods used to deliver meaningful learning experiences. Well-designed, properly administered nursing ethics education is essential for nursing students to visualize the role of professional nurses. However, a literature review shows that only a few existing studies have touched on the subject of nursing student experiences with blended learning in a nursing ethics course. Purpose: This study examines how undergraduate nursing students respond to a blended learning approach in a nursing ethics course and how blended learning affects the learning process. Methods: We used a qualitative research design with in-depth interviews. Participants included 28 female undergraduate nursing students who had completed the nursing ethics course. Each interview lasted 50–100 minutes. The researcher conducted all interviews in 2009. Results: The researcher identified six major themes and 13 subthemes from the data. The six themes included (a) enhancing thinking ability, (b) improving problem-solving skills, (c) reflecting in and on practice, (d) perceiving added workload, (e) encouraging active learning, and (f) identifying the value of nursing. Participants felt that the blended learning experience was a generally positive experience. Conclusion: Most participants appreciated the opportunity to take a more active role in the learning process, think about issues profoundly and critically, and exercise metacognitive powers in the thinking and decision-making process. Study findings may suggest productive ideas for fine-tuning blended learning models.
Electric Arc Furnace Slag in Concrete

This paper describes the work carried out in laboratory to produce concrete with good properties using oxidizing electric arc furnace (EAF) slag as fine and coarse aggregate. To do this, the slag obtained in the steelmaking process must be crushed and stabilized. First, a suitable mortar must be made and tested. Next, several mixes of concrete are designed in order to analyze their strength and properties. From the results obtained, it can be deduced that this concrete can be produced for use in a wide range of applications in civil engineering and construction. Studies and tests were performed on the durability of these concretes showing an acceptable behavior against aggressive environments. Finally, some leaching tests were carried out in order to verify their environmental compatibility.
A Study on the High Seismic Performance of RC Structural Walls under Reversed Cyclic Loading

In this paper, a new web reinforcement layout for RC shear walls was presented to improve the seismic performances of RC traditional walls. Two RC ductile frames and two RC framed shear wall specimens were designed and tested under cyclic loading at the National Center for Research on Earthquake Engineering. The test results showed that the proposed shear walls with extra concentric circles web reinforcement had greater ductility and higher energy dissipation than those of traditional RC shear walls. Moreover, the test results also indicated that the improved RC shear walls can effectively prevent the inclined shear cracks from happening and developing into the wall. This implies that large “X-shaped” bi-diagonal shear cracks can be avoided; instead, a number of minor cracks gradually and uniformly propagate into the wall surface. As a result, more ductile failure mode can be expected when the proposed high seismic performance of RC shear walls appear in the engineering practice.
Predicting the pain continuum after adolescent idiopathic scoliosis surgery: A prospective cohort study

Chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) affects half a million children annually in the United States, with dire socioeconomic consequences, including long‐term disability into adulthood. The few studies of CPSP in children are limited by sample size, follow‐up duration, non‐homogeneity of surgical procedure and factors evaluated.
T regulatory cells participate in the control of germinal centre reactions

Germinal centre (GC) reactions are central features of T‐cell‐driven B‐cell responses, and the site where antibody‐producing cells and memory B cells are generated. Within GCs, a range of complex cellular and molecular events occur which are critical for the generation of high affinity antibodies. These processes require exquisite regulation not only to ensure the production of desired antibodies, but to minimize unwanted autoreactive or low affinity antibodies. To assess whether T regulatory (Treg) cells participate in the control of GC responses, immunized mice were treated with an anti‐glucocorticoid‐induced tumour necrosis factor receptor‐related protein (GITR) monoclonal antibody (mAb) to disrupt Treg‐cell activity. In anti‐GITR‐treated mice, the GC B‐cell pool was significantly larger compared with control‐treated animals, with switched GC B cells composing an abnormally high proportion of the response. Dysregulated GCs were also observed regardless of strain, T helper type 1 or 2 polarizing antigens, and were also seen after anti‐CD25 mAb treatment. Within the spleens of immunized mice, CXCR5+ and CCR7− Treg cells were documented by flow cytometry and Foxp3+ cells were found within GCs using immunohistology. Final studies demonstrated administration of either anti‐transforming growth factor‐β or anti‐interleukin‐10 receptor blocking mAb to likewise result in dysregulated GCs, suggesting that generation of inducible Treg cells is important in controlling the GC response. Taken together, these findings indicate that Treg cells contribute to the overall size and quality of the humoral response by controlling homeostasis within GCs.
Spatial and temporal patterns of Schmallenberg virus in France in 2016

In France, Schmallenberg disease surveillance was initiated in January 2012 and maintained ever since within the framework of the French Platform for Animal Health Surveillance (ESA Platform). The surveillance protocol evolved over the years to take into account the evolution of the epidemiological situation (massive viral circulation during the first two vector seasons 2011 and 20121 followed by a less intense viral circulation since the 2013 vector season). 2 Since September 2015, the surveillance system has relied on a network of sentinel veterinarians (one sentinel veterinarian per administrative region in metropolitan France) in order to detect a possible return to massive viral circulation on the territory. Sentinel veterinarians are requested to report clinically suspicious cases when congenital malformations that could be attributed to Schmallenberg virus (SBV) are observed in ruminants (arthrogryposis-hydranencephaly syndrome [AHS]). A dedicated web interface was built in order to facilitate reporting by the sentinel veterinarians. During the …
Current and future immunotherapies for thyroid cancer

ABSTRACT Introduction: Cancer immunotherapies were approved in recent years, including immune checkpoint inhibitors. Experience with ipilimumab (CTLA-4 antagonist), nivolumab and pembrolizumab (PD-1 antagonists), and atezolizumab (PD-L1 antagonist) has shown that the impact on overall survival in cancer patients is paramount. Immune checkpoint inhibitors target the immune system and they can be applied across multiple cancers; the response rate is ranging from 20 to 40%. Many studies have shown that thyroid cancer (TC) cells produce cytokines and chemokines, inducing several tumor-promoting effects. Targeting and/or lowering cytokines and chemokines concentrations within the tumor microenvironment would produce a therapeutic benefit. In TC, increased Treg and PD-1+ T cell frequencies are indicative of aggressive disease and PD-L1 expression correlates with a greater risk of recurrence. Area covered: After performing a literature search, a few pioneering studies have evaluated immunotherapy in thyroid cancer. More recently a case has been described involving anaplastic thyroid cancer treated with vemurafenib and nivolumab, with substantial regression and complete radiographic and clinical remission. Expert commentary: The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors in aggressive TC has not yet been extensively investigated and further studies in a large number of TC patients are urgently needed.
Performance test of amorphous silicon modules in different climates: higher minimum operating temperatures lead to higher performance levels

To assess the performance of thin-film amorphous silicon (a-Si) devices operating in different climatic conditions, three identical sets of commercially available a-Si PV modules from five different manufacturers were simultaneously deployed outdoors in three sites with distinct climates (Arizona-USA, Colorado-USA and Florianopolis-Brazil) in a round robin exposure experiment. The four-year experiment aims to determine the light-induced degradation and stabilization characteristics of a-Si regarding specific history of exposure, and to monitor and compare degradation rates in different climates. We present results from the first year of measurements, showing that modules deployed at the site with the highest minimum operating temperature experienced the highest stabilized output level.
Crystallinity determination of native and stretched wool by X‐ray diffraction

A quantitative study on α-β transition of Merino wool upon stretching has been carried out by wide angle X-ray diffraction using Merino wool fibre bundles. Technical factors affecting this determination, such as subtraction of air scattering and the measurement of crystallinity are considered. The degree of crystallinity has been found to be around 18% and 14% for native Lincoln and Merino wool, respectively, lower than that reported in the literature. Possible reasons for this lower value are discussed. However, the total crystallinity remained almost constant for wool samples stretched to 0, 18, 33, 49 and 66%, supporting the concept of a direct α-β transition.
Pyridostigmine enhances even if it does not normalize the growth hormone responses to growth hormone-releasing hormone in patients with Cushing's disease.

Subjects with Cushing's disease have diminished growth hormone (GH) response to growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). The aim of our study was to investigate the underlying mechanism of this diminished GH response in these patients using pyridostigmine (PD), an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, which is reported to increase GH secretion by reducing somatostatin tone. Eight subjects with untreated Cushing's disease (caused by a pituitary adenoma) and 6 control subjects received GHRH 100 micrograms in 1 ml of saline, as intravenous bolus injection 60 min after (1) placebo (2 tablets, p.o.) or (2) PD (120 mg, p.o.). After GHRH plus placebo, the GH peak (mean +/- SEM) was significantly lower in subjects with Cushing's disease (2.4 +/- 0.5 micrograms/l) compared to control subjects (25.1 +/- 1.8 micrograms/l, p less than 0.05). After GHRH plus PD, the GH peak was significantly enhanced both in subjects with Cushing's disease (7.1 +/- 2.3 micrograms/l, p less than 0.05) and in control subjects (42.3 +/- 4.3 micrograms/l, p less than 0.05). In patients with Cushing's disease, the GH response to GHRH plus PD was lower with respect to the GH response to GHRH alone in normal subjects. We conclude that hypercortisolism may cause a decrease in central cholinergic tone which is in turn hypothesized to be responsible of an enhanced somatostatin release from the hypothalamus. However, other metabolic or central nervous system alterations may act synergistically with hypercortisolism in causing GH inhibition in patients with Cushing's disease.
Composition properties of Bayesian differential privacy

Differential privacy is a rigorous privacy standard that has been applied to a range of data analysis tasks. To broaden the application scenarios of differential privacy when data records have dependencies, the notion of Bayesian differential privacy has been recently proposed. However, it is unknown whether Bayesian differential privacy preserves three nice properties of differential privacy: sequential composability, parallel composability, and post-processing. In this paper, we provide an affirmative answer to this question; i.e., Bayesian differential privacy still have these properties. The idea behind sequential composability is that if we have m algorithms Y<inf>1</inf>, Y<inf>2</inf>,…, Y<inf>m</inf>, where Y<inf>ℓ</inf> is independently ε<inf>ℓ</inf>-Bayesian differential private for ℓ = 1,2,…, m, then by feeding the result of Y<inf>1</inf> into Y<inf>2</inf>, the result of Y<inf>2</inf> into Y<inf>3</inf>, and so on, we will finally have an Σ<sup>m</sup><inf>ℓ=;1</inf> ε<inf>ℓ</inf>-Bayesian differential private algorithm. For parallel composability, we consider the situation where a database is partitioned into m disjoint subsets. The ℓ-th subset is input to a Bayesian differential private algorithm Y<inf>ℓ</inf>, for ℓ= 1, 2,…, m. Then the parallel composition of Y<inf>1</inf>, Y<inf>2</inf>,…, Y<inf>m</inf> will be max<sup>m</sup><inf>ℓ=;1</inf>=<inf>1</inf> ε<inf>ℓ</inf>-Bayesian differential private. The postprocessing property means that a data analyst, without additional knowledge about the private database, cannot compute a function of the output of a Bayesian differential private algorithm and reduce its privacy guarantee.
Migration, School Attainment, and Child Labor: Evidence from Rural Pakistan

Inequalities in access to education pose a significant barrier to development. It has been argued that this reflects, in part, borrowing constraints that inhibit private investment in human capital by the poor. One promise of the recent proposals to open international labor markets to allow for the temporary economic migration of low-skilled workers from developing to industrial countries is its potential impact on human capital accumulation by the poor. The large remittance flows from migrants to their communities of origin underscores this aspect of migration. However, migration can also transform expectations of future employment and induce changes in household structure that can exert an independent effect on the private returns to investment in human capital. The author explores the relationship between temporary economic migration and investment in child schooling. A key challenge is to deal appropriately with selection into migration. She finds that the potential positive effects of temporary economic migration on human capital accumulation are large. Moreover, the gains are much greater for girls, yielding a very substantial reduction in gender inequalities in access to education. Significantly, though, the gains appear to arise almost entirely from the greater resource flows to migrant households. The author cannot detect any effect of future migration prospects on schooling decisions. More significantly, she does not find any protective effect of migration-induced female headship on schooling outcomes for girls. Rather, female headship appears to protect boys at the cost of girls.
Prey DNA detection success following digestion by intraguild predators: influence of prey and predator species

Intraguild predation (IGP) has been increasingly recognized as an important interaction in ecological systems over the past two decades, and remarkable insights have been gained into its nature and prevalence. We have developed a technique using molecular gut‐content analysis to compare the rate of IGP between closely related species of coccinellid beetles (lady beetles or ladybirds), which had been previously known to prey upon one another. We first developed PCR primers for each of four lady beetle species: Harmonia axyridis, Coccinella septempunctata, Coleomegilla maculata and Propylea quatuordecimpunctata. We next determined the prey DNA detection success over time (DS50) for each combination of interacting species following a meal. We found that DS50 values varied greatly between predator–prey combinations, ranging from 5.2 to 19.3 h. As a result, general patterns of detection times based upon predator or prey species alone are not discernable. We used the DS50 values to correct field data to demonstrate the importance of compensation for detection times that are specific to particular predator–prey combinations.