Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Associates of Comprehensive HIV/AIDS Knowledge and Acceptance Attitude among Male Youth Aged 15-24: Comparison Study among Ivory Coast, Cameroon and Gabon

Background: Ivory Coast, Cameroon and Gabon are the highly HIV/AIDS prevalent West African countries. However, studies show that nationally representative or comparative studies had never been done. Hence, this study was focused on associates of comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge and acceptance attitude towards people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) among male youth of the three countries and comparison by country. Method: We utilized nationally representative datasets from Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) of Ivory Coast 2011/2012, Cameroon 2011 and Gabon 2012. A total of 6576 male youth; 1811 (27.5%) Ivorian, 2803 (42.6%) Cameroonian and 1962 (29.8%) Gabonese was taken. We used IBM SPSS version 22 to run multivariate logistic regression taking p-values less than 0.05 as significant. Results: The comprehensive knowledge of HIV/AIDS and acceptance attitude towards PLHA in all the three countries were low; especially knowledge in Ivory Coast (39.1%) and attitude in Gabon (22.5%) were very low. On multivariate analysis, only age, residence, educational level, and wealth index were significant associates of comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge. On the other hand, age, religion, educational level, and wealth index were significant associates of acceptance attitude towards PLHA. On comparison, Gabonese (AOR=1.50, p<0.001) and Cameroonians (AOR=1.44, p<0.001) were more likely to have comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge than Ivorians. However, Ivorians were 1.18 (AOR=0.85, p=0.032) and Cameroonians were1.26 (AOR=1.26, p=0.001) times more likely to have acceptance attitude than Gabonese. Conclusion: Comprehensive HIV/AIDS knowledge and acceptance attitude towards PLHA in the three countries and specifically, acceptance attitude in Gabon was considerably low. Hence, it is crucial to give emphasis on planning policy of transmitting information to youth in a contextually applicable to the socio-cultural differences.
Unveiling the Dynamical State of Massive Clusters through the ICL Fraction

We have selected a sample of 11 massive clusters of galaxies observed by the Hubble Space Telescope in order to study the impact of the dynamical state on the intracluster light (ICL) fraction, the ratio of total integrated ICL to the total galaxy member light. With the exception of the Bullet cluster, the sample is drawn from the Cluster Lensing and Supernova Survey and the Frontier Fields program, containing five relaxed and six merging clusters. The ICL fraction is calculated in three optical filters using the CHEFs ICL estimator, a robust and accurate algorithm free of a priori assumptions. We find that the ICL fraction in the three bands is, on average, higher for the merging clusters, ranging between ∼7% and 23%, compared with the ∼2%–11% found for the relaxed systems. We observe a nearly constant value (within the error bars) in the ICL fraction of the regular clusters at the three wavelengths considered, which would indicate that the colors of the ICL and the cluster galaxies are, on average, coincident and, thus, so are their stellar populations. However, we find a higher ICL fraction in the F606W filter for the merging clusters, consistent with an excess of lower-metallicity/younger stars in the ICL, which could have migrated violently from the outskirts of the infalling galaxies during the merger event.
Androgen Regulation of the Mesocorticolimbic System and Executive Function

Multiple lines of evidence indicate that androgens, such as testosterone, modulate the mesocorticolimbic system and executive function. This review integrates neuroanatomical, molecular biological, neurochemical, and behavioral studies to highlight how endogenous and exogenous androgens alter behaviors, such as behavioral flexibility, decision making, and risk taking. First, we briefly review the neuroanatomy of the mesocorticolimbic system, which mediates executive function, with a focus on the ventral tegmental area (VTA), nucleus accumbens (NAc), medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). Second, we present evidence that androgen receptors (AR) and other steroid receptors are expressed in the mesocorticolimbic system. Using sensitive immunohistochemistry and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) techniques, ARs are detected in the VTA, NAc, mPFC, and OFC. Third, we describe recent evidence for local androgens (“neuroandrogens”) in the mesocorticolimbic system. Steroidogenic enzymes are expressed in mesocorticolimbic regions. Furthermore, following long-term gonadectomy, testosterone is nondetectable in the blood but detectable in the mesocorticolimbic system, using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. However, the physiological relevance of neuroandrogens remains unknown. Fourth, we review how anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) influence the mesocorticolimbic system. Fifth, we describe how androgens modulate the neurochemistry and structure of the mesocorticolimbic system, particularly with regard to dopaminergic signaling. Finally, we discuss evidence that androgens influence executive functions, including the effects of androgen deprivation therapy and AAS. Taken together, the evidence indicates that androgens are critical modulators of executive function. Similar to dopamine signaling, there might be optimal levels of androgen signaling within the mesocorticolimbic system for executive functioning. Future studies should examine the regulation and functions of neurosteroids in the mesocorticolimbic system, as well as the potential deleterious and enduring effects of AAS use.
Indices para el estudio de la evolución de la variabilidad y valores extremos en la precipitación diaria en la cuenca del Ebro

The aim of this paper is to study the behaviour and evolution of an index set which tries to reveal the changes observed in precipitation, particularly, in the occurrence rate and intensity of extreme rainfall events. The considered set aims to study exhaustively the different aspects of precipitation and it includes more properties than other sets employed in European projects such as ECA or STARDEX. Daily precipitation series (1941-2000) from six weather stations in the Ebro river basin are used for testing. The first and main conclusion is that extreme index behaviour is dominated by the evolution of the total precipitation.
Relation of Body Composition at Birth with Child Development at Two Years of Age: A Prospective Cohort Study Among Ethiopian Children

Citing this paper Please note that where the full-text provided on King's Research Portal is the Author Accepted Manuscript or Post-Print version this may differ from the final Published version. If citing, it is advised that you check and use the publisher's definitive version for pagination, volume/issue, and date of publication details. And where the final published version is provided on the Research Portal, if citing you are again advised to check the publisher's website for any subsequent corrections.
Adherence to endocrine therapy among Chinese patients with breast cancer: current status and recommendations for improvement

Background Postoperative endocrine therapy is known to reduce recurrence and mortality in patients with estrogen receptor (ER)- or progestogen receptor (PR)-positive breast cancer. Correlates and determinants of compliance with endocrine therapy among Chinese patients with breast cancer are not known. The aim of this study was to elucidate the efficacy and adherence of endocrine therapy in China and suggest effective improvements on the adherence. Patients and methods We analyzed the survival of 1,110 patients eligible for endocrine therapy and adherence of 699 patients to endocrine therapy. Kaplan–Meier curves, log-rank tests and Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate survival, and logistic regression models were used to assess variables associated with treatment adherence. Results Long-term endocrine therapy was associated with lower recurrence rate (HR 0.72; 95% CI 0.56–0.93; p=0.013). Adherence to endocrine therapy was only 63.1%. Sociodemographic characteristics of patients, clinical- and medication-related characteristics and patients’ attitudes were associated with adherence to endocrine therapy. Conclusion Adherence to endocrine therapy in Chinese patients with ER+/PR+ breast cancer was <65%. Both patients and physicians should take progressive steps to improve the rate of adherence.
Evidence and temporality of the obesity paradox in coronary bypass surgery: an analysis of cause-specific mortality†

OBJECTIVES We evaluated the presence of an 'obesity paradox' in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) patients, determined its time course and ascertained whether it is associated with improved cardiovascular (CV) survival versus non-CV survival. METHODS A retrospective analysis of 3 prospectively collected databases was conducted. A fifteen-year Kaplan-Meier analysis in 7091 CABG patients was performed and repeated in 5 body mass index [BMI (kg/m2)] cohorts [Normal (18.5-24.99 kg/m2), Overweight (25-29.99 kg/m2), Obese I (30-34.99 kg/m2), Obese II (35-39.99 kg/m2) and Obese III (≥40 kg/m2)]. Mortality hazard ratios {HR [95% confidence interval (CI)]} were derived using comprehensive multivariable competing risk Cox regression, accounting for BMI categories for overall (0-15), Early (0-1), Intermediate (1-8) and Late (8-15) postoperative years, to relax the proportional hazards assumption. The regression was repeated using BMI as a continuous variable. Mortality was classified into any, CV and non-CV. RESULTS Obese patients were younger with more comorbidities. Fifteen-year survival was improved in the Overweight and Obese I groups (P < 0.001). Adjusted 15-year mortality was reduced in the Overweight [HR (95% CI) = 0.88 (0.79-0.98)] and Obese I [HR = 0.88 (0.78-0.99)] groups driven by improved CV and non-CV survival. This trend was noted in the early (Overweight) and intermediate postoperative periods (Overweight and Obese I) with no significance in the late period. Higher mortality in the Obese III [HR = 1.28 (1.06-1.55)] group was driven by a decreased CV survival. Using BMI as a continuous variable, a BMI of 29 kg/m2 was associated with optimal survival. CONCLUSIONS We identified a protective partial obesity paradox in the early and intermediate postoperative periods among Overweight and mildly obese (Obese I) patients with improved CV and non-CV survival. The morbidly obese (the Obese III group) had higher early and late CV mortality.
Social implications of children’s smartphone addiction: The role of support networks and social engagement

Background and aims Most studies have regarded smartphone addiction as a condition stemming from individuals’ psychological issues, so research has rarely examined it in relation to a lack of social resources and its social impacts. However, this study reinterprets smartphone addiction as a social problem stemming from a lack of offline social networks and resulting in a decline of social engagement. Methods This study drew on a survey of 2,000 children in Korea consisting of 991 males and 1,009 females with an average age of 12 years old. Using the STATA 14 structural equation modeling program, this study examined the relationships between children’s lack of social networks, smartphone addiction, and social engagement. Results Social network variables, such as formal organizational membership, quality of relationship with parents, size of the peer group, and peer support, decrease smartphone addiction. Simply having good relationships and reciprocal feelings with peers do not have any influence on the smartphone addiction. The more the children become addicted to smartphones, the less they participate in social engagement. Discussion and conclusions This study provides a new understanding of smartphone addiction by focusing on its social aspects, augmenting prior studies that have addressed psychological factors. Findings suggest that children’s lack of social networks may inhibit comfortable social interactions and feelings of support in the offline environment, which can heighten their desire to escape to smartphones. These children, unlike non-addicts, may not take advantage of the media to enrich their social lives and increase their level of social engagement.
Comments on: “What Is Developmental Dyslexia?” Brain Sci. 2018, 8, 26. The Relationship between Eye Movements and Reading Difficulties

We are writing in response to the review article: Stein. J. (2018). What is Developmental Dyslexia? Brain Sciences, 8, 26, doi:10.3390/brainsci8020026. We consider that the section entitled, “Eye Movement Control”, presents a misleading characterisation of current empirical and theoretical understanding. We outline five specific points relating to Stein’s views on eye movement control and developmental dyslexia with which we disagree and conclude that disruption to oculomotor behaviour occurs as a consequence of processing difficulty that individuals with dyslexia experience as they engage in reading.
An Anonymous ECC-Based Self-Certified Key Distribution Scheme for the Smart Grid

In the smart grid, the various stakeholders can communicate securely and efficiently only if they employ a proper key distribution scheme. In recent years, a number of key distribution schemes have been proposed to be used in the context of the smart grid. However, some suffer from security challenges, some do not provide the smart meter anonymity, some require high communication and computational costs that make them less suitable for the resource-constrained smart meters, some are based on the public key infrastructure, and most of the newly published ones have the key escrow problem. Therefore, to remedy these challenges, in this paper, we propose an anonymous elliptic curve cryptography-based self-certified key distribution scheme that not only is free from the overhead of the certificate management and the key escrow issue, but also is more efficient than anonymous schemes in terms of both communication and computational costs. More significantly, we have implemented the cryptographic elements on two state-of-the-art ARM chips. First, a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller as a candidate for the smart meter and second, a 64-bit Octa core ARM Cortex-A53 as a candidate for the service provider. We hope that the achieved results be beneficial for other future researches in this field.
Detection of symptom over-reporting on the Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory in OEF/OIF/OND veterans with history of mild TBI

Abstract Objective: As part of routine care at Veterans Affairs facilities, veterans with a service-related traumatic brain injury (TBI) are administered a self-report post-concussive symptom measure, the Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory (NSI). Interpreting the NSI can be problematic given that over-reporting on self-report measures is often found in both civilian and military patient populations. This study investigates embedded scales on the NSI that identify possible and probable symptom exaggeration. Method: 183 veterans with a history of mild TBI were administered the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory, 2nd edition, Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) and the NSI. The participants were divided into symptom validity testing pass and fail groups based on their performance on the MMPI-2-RF symptom validity scales. Cut scores on the NSI Total and Validity-10 scores were then established and applied to two additional veteran populations. Results: Sensitivity and specificity values were derived for all NSI Total and Validity-10 values. Optimal cut scores were determined based on specificity levels of ≥95%. The NSI Total cut score was ≥57 for possible and ≥67 for probable symptom exaggeration and the Validity-10 cut score was ≥22 for possible and ≥27 for probable symptom exaggeration, with sensitivity ranging from 27 to 43%. Applying these cut scores to a broader clinical and research sample resulted in lower rates of suspected exaggeration. Conclusions: Both the NSI Total and Validity-10 cut scores consistently identified potential symptom exaggeration across three mild TBI samples. Clinicians and researchers who use the NSI are encouraged to utilize either embedded validity measure in their practice.
Observer-Based Pulsed Signal Injection for Grid Impedance Estimation in Three-Phase Systems

This paper addresses the estimation of the grid impedance and the control of grid-tied converters by combining pulsed signal injection (PSI) and observer-based techniques. A Luenberger-based observer is used for controlling the grid-side current of an LCL filter by only measuring the converter-side currents and the grid-side voltage. This configuration mitigates the effects of parameter variation at the LCL filter. Under grid impedance changes, the observer control signal will be used for triggering the signal injection. A PSI approach is employed for estimating online the grid impedance using a recursive least square algorithm. Compared with existing grid-impedance estimation techniques, the proposed method can: 1) identify a generic RL grid impedance, even under unbalanced conditions; 2) reduce the distortion induced by the excitation signal by relying on the observer to triggering the injection when a grid impedance change is detected; and 3) identify grid impedance values much lower than the converter filter impedance, which is the usual situation when the converter rated power is well below the grid rating. Finally, it is worth pointing out that the proposed estimation technique is well-suited to be incorporated into an adaptive current controller scheme.
Implications of bone morphology for moa taxonomy and behavior

The limb bone skeleton of the moa, a family of extinct ratite birds endemic to New Zealand, is described with particular reference to the anatomical and functional significance of osteological landmark form variation. The results generally support the existing classification of moa. Four genera, Megalapteryx, Anomalopteryx, Dinornis, and Pachyornis, were found to be evolved within moa, with Emeus and Euryapteryx possibly being more primitive. Megalapteryx was found to be less mobile than other moa genera. The Dinornis species were found to be more cursorial and more mobile relative to other moa. They may also have had a different center of gravity. A marked development of the lower leg in Anomalopteryx suggested a digging habit associated with food procurement.
Emotional Labour and Indirectly Measured Attitude Towards Occupation in Explaining Employee Well-Being

Drawing on the model of Grandey (2000), it was proposed that the attitude towards occupation could buffer the negative effects of emotional labour. A total of 173 teachers participated in the study. Attitudes towards occupation, surface acting, emotional exhaustion and job satisfaction were estimated. The indirect measure of the attitude towards occupation was assessed using the Approaching-Avoidance Simulation Method. Con ﬁ rmatory Factor Analysis proved the validity and reliability of the indirect measurement, which is based on uncontrolled reactions of the respondents towards stimuli representing the profession. The results revealed a positive correlation between attitudes towards occupation and indicators of employees’ well-being. The indirect measure of attitude towards occupation turned out to be a signi ﬁ cant moderator of the relationship between surface acting and job satisfaction. The results raise interesting questions about the connection between indirect measures of attitudes towards occupation and employee well-being.
Factors affecting the utilisation of electronic medical records system in Malawian central hospitals

Background In Malawi, paper-based medical record-keeping has been observed to exacerbate challenges related to accessing patient records and patient tracking. Despite the introduction of electronic medical record (EMR) systems in 2001, paper-based records continue to be in use. Some health workers prefer paper-based records to EMRs. This study assessed factors that affect the use of EMRs in Malawi, particularly at Queen Elizabeth and Kamuzu Central Hospitals. It further investigated the reasons why paper-based records are still in use despite the numerous associated disadvantages. The extent to which EMRs contribute to patient care was also analysed. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 111 randomly selected health workers were interviewed, using a semistructured questionnaire, at the 2 largest central hospitals in Malawi, where EMRs were first introduced in the country. Focus group discussions were conducted to gather further information on factors identified during the individual interviews. Results and conclusions Differences in age, gender, and previous computer experience were not associated with differences in EMR usage. However, education and employment levels has a positive association with EMR usage. Hardware and connectivity problems, as well as lack of training and managerial support negatively affected the use of EMRs. EMRs were found to improve data quality and efficiency in patient management.
A model of blood-ammonia homeostasis based on a quantitative analysis of nitrogen metabolism in the multiple organs involved in the production, catabolism, and excretion of ammonia in humans

Increased blood ammonia (NH3) is an important causative factor in hepatic encephalopathy, and clinical treatment of hepatic encephalopathy is focused on lowering NH3. Ammonia is a central element in intraorgan nitrogen (N) transport, and modeling the factors that determine blood-NH3 concentration is complicated by the need to account for a variety of reactions carried out in multiple organs. This review presents a detailed quantitative analysis of the major factors determining blood-NH3 homeostasis – the N metabolism of urea, NH3, and amino acids by the liver, gastrointestinal system, muscle, kidney, and brain – with the ultimate goal of creating a model that allows for prediction of blood-NH3 concentration. Although enormous amounts of NH3 are produced during normal liver amino-acid metabolism, this NH3 is completely captured by the urea cycle and does not contribute to blood NH3. While some systemic NH3 derives from renal and muscle metabolism, the primary site of blood-NH3 production is the gastrointestinal tract, as evidenced by portal vein-NH3 concentrations that are about three times that of systemic blood. Three mechanisms, in order of quantitative importance, release NH3 in the gut: 1) hydrolysis of urea by bacterial urease, 2) bacterial protein deamination, and 3) intestinal mucosal glutamine metabolism. Although the colon is conventionally assumed to be the major site of gut-NH3 production, evidence is reviewed that indicates that the stomach (via Helicobacter pylori metabolism) and small intestine and may be of greater importance. In healthy subjects, most of this gut NH3 is removed by the liver before reaching the systemic circulation. Using a quantitative model, loss of this “first-pass metabolism” due to portal collateral circulation can account for the hyperammonemia observed in chronic liver disease, and there is usually no need to implicate hepatocyte malfunction. In contrast, in acute hepatic necrosis, hyperammonemia results from damaged hepatocytes. Although muscle-NH3 uptake is normally negligible, it can become important in severe hyperammonemia. The NH3-lowering actions of intestinal antibiotics (rifaximin) and lactulose are discussed in detail, with particular emphasis on the seeming lack of importance of the frequently emphasized acidifying action of lactulose in the colon.