Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Mothers at Risk: Factors Affecting Maternal Postpartum Length of Stay

Perinatal complications linked to maternal comorbidities contribute to increased healthcare utilization through an extended postpartum length of stay (LOS). Understanding factors influencing postpartum LOS may minimize the adverse effects associated with comorbidities and complications. The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors with the greatest odds of increasing postpartum LOS. Linked 2008-2009 hospital discharge and birth certificate data were used to examine comorbidities and complication codes in 1 015 424 births. The overall rate for an extended LOS (vaginal: >5 days/cesarean: >6 days) was 3.63 per 1000 live births. Complications were present in 17% of pregnancies; multiple complications were seen in 1%. Chronic hypertension was associated with an extended stay for both vaginal and cesarean births (odds ratio [OR] = 5.89 [95% CI, 4.39-7.88]; OR = 3.57 [95% CI, 3.05-4.17], respectively). Puerperal infections (OR = 6.86 [95% CI, 5.73-8.21]), eclampsia (OR = 17.07 [95% CI, 13.76-21.17]), and transfusions (OR = 11.66 [95% CI, 9.20-14.75]) occurred most frequently and conferred the highest odds of an extended stay for vaginal births. Cerebrovascular conditions (OR = 15.32 [95% CI, 11.90-19.60]) and infection (OR = 15.35 [95% CI, 10.11-23.32]) conferred the highest odds of an extended LOS for cesarean births. The earlier risk factors are recognized, the sooner processes can be initiated to optimize organizational preparation, thus decreasing adverse maternal outcomes and extended hospital stays.
Model-Assisted Multiband Fusion for Single Image Enhancement and Applications to Robot Vision

This paper presents a fast single image enhancement<xref ref-type="fn" rid="fn1"><sup>†</sup></xref> <fn id="fn1"><label><sup>†</sup></label><p><uri>https://github.com/irapkaist/multi-band-enhancement</uri>. </p> </fn> that is applicable regardless of channels in various environments. The main idea of the paper is combining model-based and fusion-based dehazing methods, thereby presenting balanced image enhancement while elaborating image details. The proposed method enhances both color and grayscale images without any prior information. Multiband decomposition is utilized to extract the base and detail layers for intensity and Laplacian modules. The proposed ambient map and transmission estimation for the intensity module are effective in restoring the true intensity. Adaptive nonlinear mapping functions adjust details on each residual layer. Through color-corrected reconstruction, our results demonstrate outstanding performance on various types of hazy images. The proposed method is thoroughly validated in terms of conventional image quality comparison. We also provide the evaluation at the application phase from both the semantic (segmentation) and geometric (direct odometry) vision based robotics application. The overall algorithm is presented in <uri>https://youtu.be/3Fk3kbaPkXQ</uri>.
Anti-inflammatory effect on genes expression after four days of Qigong training in peripheral mononuclear blood cells in healthy women.

INTRODUCTION Some studies have shown the influence of Qigong on gene expression in different cells, but there is little data associated with the influence of this kind of therapy on genes expression in pheripheral monocellucar blood cells. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the expression of genes associated with cellular stress response in peripheral mononuclear blood cells (PMBC) in healthy women. MATERIAL AND METHODS The experiment took place at the Japanese Martial Arts Centre "DOJO" in Stara Wieś, Poland, conducted over the course of a 4-day qigong training session. To evaluate the genes effect of this training, blood samples were taken before and after the training period. This experiment involved 20 healthy women (aged 56.2±9.01, body height 164.8±6.5 and mass 65.5±8.2). To determine the expression of HSF-1, HSPA1A, NF-kB, IL10 and CCL2 mRNA, 3 ml of venous blood was collected. The blood samples were placed in tubes allowing for separation (BD Vacutainer CPT TM) before and after the 4 days of qigong training. Isolated PMBC were used to determine gene expression using real-time qRT-PCR (quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction). RESULTS Significant decreases in NF-kB and CCL2 mRNA and increases in IL10, HSF1 and HSPA1A m-RNA were detected after 4 days of qigong training. The obtained findings suggest that qigong caused a reduction in the inflammatory and intensified anti-inflammatory gene expression, as well as a higher expression of HSF-1 and HSPA1A. CONCLUSIONS The adaptive response to qigong training was similar to the adaptive response to physical activity and was detected through gene expression in PMBC. Furthermore, this kind of training is especially indicated for women because of their higher susceptibility to psychosocial stress when compared to men.
Methods for investigating crash risk: Comparing case–control with responsibility analysis

Abstract Objective: There are 2 primary methods for establishing relative risk: case–control studies, in which crash and matched control data are collected separately, and responsibility analysis, which exploits a single existing crash database by using nonresponsible drivers as an “induced exposure” control group (which is less expensive and therefore more feasible for examining the large number of substances that can impact driving behavior). Though both approaches are scientifically sound and methodologically valid, each approach has its own inherent obstacles to overcome. In this article, we examine in detail how different criteria for the development of control cases influence the accuracy of crash risk estimates for drivers with positive blood alcohol concentrations (BACs). Methods: We applied responsibility analysis to crash-involved drivers in a recent crash case–control study, thereby providing 2 sets of control cases: Those from responsibility analysis and those from the case control study. Results: Case–control and responsibility analysis crash risk curves did not differ significantly, indicating that both systems generate valid estimates of the relative crash risk of drivers on the road. Conclusions: The results suggest that when researchers are faced with finance or time constraints that make case–control studies infeasible, responsibility analysis should be considered a viable alternate methodological approach.
Association between cardiac autonomic nervous dysfunction and the severity of coronary lesions in patients with stable coronary artery disease

Objective Autonomic dysfunction is recognized in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and is related to worse cardiovascular outcome. This study aimed to evaluate cardiac autonomic nervous function by heart rate recovery (HRR) and heart rate variability (HRV), and demonstrate their relationship with the severity of coronary lesions in patients with stable CAD (SCAD). Methods Consecutive patients without CAD (controls, n = 65) and those with SCAD (n = 63) were included in this study. Patients with SCAD were further divided into single- or two-/three-vessel disease, as well as <70% or ≥70% stenosis subgroups. The association between HRR/HRV and coronary lesions was analysed. Results HRR and HRV values were significantly lower in the SCAD group compared with the control group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that abnormal HRR and HRV were risk factors of SCAD. Moreover, delayed HRR was a risk factor of the severity of coronary lesions. Conclusions Our results show that autonomic function is impaired in patients with SCAD and delayed HRR is closely related to the severity of coronary lesions.
Perturbations in relative humidity in the boundary layer represent a possible mechanism for the formation of small convective clouds

Abstract. An air parcel model was developed to study the formation of small convective clouds that appear under conditions of weak updraft and a strong thermal inversion layer above the clouds. Observations suggest that these clouds are characterized by a cloud base height far lower than the lifting condensation level. Considering such atmospheric conditions, the air parcel model shows that these clouds cannot be the result of classical thermals or plumes that are caused by perturbations in the temperature near the surface. We suggest that such clouds are the result of perturbations in the relative humidity of elevated air pockets. These results explain the existence of small clouds that standard methods fail to predict and shed light on processes related to the formation of convective clouds from the lowest end of the size distribution.
A generalized model for smartphone adoption and use in an Arab context: A cross-country comparison

ABSTRACT The main aim of this research is to propose a conceptual model that explains the factors that can predict behavioral intention to use smartphones and the actual use of smartphones by young Arab consumers in three Arab countries: Iraq, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.). The findings indicate that the proposed extended model fits well in the three countries. The research provides information that can help policymakers and mobile companies.
Specificity of the DNA Mismatch Repair System (MMR) and Mutagenesis Bias in Bacteria

The mutation rate of an organism is influenced by the interaction of evolutionary forces such as natural selection and genetic drift. However, the mutation spectrum (i.e., the frequency distribution of different types of mutations) can be heavily influenced by DNA repair. Using mutation-accumulation lines of the extremophile bacterium Deinococcus radiodurans ΔmutS1 and the model soil bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens wild-type and MMR- (Methyl-dependent Mismatch Repair-deficient) strains, we report the mutational features of these two important bacteria. We find that P. fluorescens has one of the highest MMR repair efficiencies among tested bacteria. We also discover that MMR of D. radiodurans preferentially repairs deletions, contrary to all other bacteria examined. We then, for the first time, quantify genome-wide efficiency and specificity of MMR in repairing different genomic regions and mutation types, by evaluating the P. fluorescens and D. radiodurans mutation data sets, along with previously reported ones of Bacillus subtilis subsp. subtilis, Escherichia coli, Vibrio cholerae, and V. fischeri. MMR in all six bacteria shares two general features: 1) repair efficiency is influenced by the neighboring base composition for both transitions and transversions, not limited to transversions as previously reported; and 2) MMR only recognizes indels <4 bp in length. This study demonstrates the power of mutation accumulation lines in quantifying DNA repair and mutagenesis patterns.
When self-tracking enters physical rehabilitation: From ‘pushed’ self-tracking to ongoing affective encounters in arrangements of care

In this paper, I explore what happens when self-tracking technologies and devices travel into the context of physical rehabilitation and come to constitute what Lupton has called ‘pushed’ self-tracking. By unpacking the processes through which a self-tracking technology is put to use in physical rehabilitation in Denmark, and the kind of relationships patients and healthcare providers establish with and through this technology, I illustrate how a new geography of responsibility is constituted, where responsibility for professional guidance is delegated to the technology and patients are expected to produce and engage in movement data. In contrast to the image of ‘pushing’ as a single activity where one part (technology) has the authority to push the other (patient) to act in certain ways, I argue that ‘the push’ is better described as an ongoing and contingent process that evolves through affective and affecting encounters between human (patients, healthcare providers) and nonhuman (technology, algorithms, software) actors. I illustrate that even though responsibility is delegated to the technology, it is unable to make bodies move by itself. Rather, what determines what ‘it’ becomes and how ‘it’ comes to act is enabled by the constitution of a wider arrangement of care and the arrangements’ ability to affect and respond to particular bodies.
Technical Report on Optimal Link Scheduling in Millimeter Wave Multi-hop Networks with Space Division Multiple Access and Multiplexing

In this paper we study the maximum throughput achievable with optimal scheduling in multi-hop networks with highly directive antenna arrays capable of Space Division Multiplexing (SDM) at the transmitter and Space Division Multiple Access (SDMA) at the receiver. This network model is relevant for future millimeter wave (mmWave) systems, which are expected to implement self-backhauled cellular networks with very high data rates, relying on carrier frequencies between 10-300 GHz, channels with a very large bandwidth, and a large number of antenna elements, even in mobile devices. We adapt mmWave channel propagation, antenna array and link rate models to the classic throughput-optimality and Network Utility Maximization (NUM) scheduling framework for multi-hop networks. Directional antenna gains, transmission towards multiple destinations at once, and simultaneous reception of signals from multiple sources, are all new characteristics not featured in the existing NUM literature. We verify that the classic NUM convergence lemmas are still valid under this new set of constraints, and discuss a series of algorithms to achieve or approximate the performance of the optimal Maximum Back Pressure (MBP) solution. Finally, our analysis serves as an estimation of the potential improvement in cellular network throughput capacity due to the integration of SDM/SDMA techniques and multi-hop.
Image dehazing using non-symmetry and anti-packing model based on dark channel prior

As is known to all, image processing is increasingly important in daily life and research. Image enhancing and image restoration are of vital importance in image processing. During the last decade, fog removal-— which is related to image enhancing and image restoration — received lots of attention. Some famous methods like dark channel prior were proposed. In this paper, a novel method based on the Non-symmetry and Anti-packing Model (NAM) is proposed to improve the dark channel prior algorithm. Besides, to enhance haze-free image's visual effects, auto level is used in this paper. Firstly, according to the basic theory of dark channel prior, which is based on a key observation that most local patches in outdoor haze-free images contain some pixels whose intensity is very low in at least one color channel, we can get several equations to calculate haze-free image. Then, we use the NAM to calculate an important constant value which is called atmospheric light. Next, we make use of a guided filter to estimate the transmission (t(x)) in a more accurate and subtle way. Finally, we can use estimated transmission and atmospheric light, which are refined due to the NAM and the guided filter to obtain the haze-free image, but the final haze-free image always has low light intensity, so we propose a method named auto level to enhance image's visual effects. According to the experiments, our proposed algorithm contributes to dehazing and it is efficient in fog removal.
Interplay of a secreted protein with type IVb pilus for efficient enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli colonization

Significance To avoid the mucosal barrier and attach to the intestinal epithelium, enteric pathogens have evolved a unique proteinaceous fiber called type IVb pilus (T4bP). Despite its importance for bacterial pathogenesis, little is known about the adhesion mechanisms of T4bP, especially regarding the role of the minor pilin subunit located at its tip. Here, we show that the type IVb minor pilin CofB of CFA/III from enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) plays a role not only in T4bP assembly by forming a trimeric initiator complex, but also in bacterial adhesion by anchoring a secreted protein, CofJ, at the trimerization interface of H-type lectin domain. These findings expand our knowledge of T4P biology and provide important insights for developing therapeutics against ETEC infection. Initial attachment and subsequent colonization of the intestinal epithelium comprise critical events allowing enteric pathogens to survive and express their pathogenesis. In enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC), these are mediated by a long proteinaceous fiber termed type IVb pilus (T4bP). We have reported that the colonization factor antigen/III (CFA/III), an operon-encoded T4bP of ETEC, possesses a minor pilin, CofB, that carries an H-type lectin domain at its tip. Although CofB is critical for pilus assembly by forming a trimeric initiator complex, its importance for bacterial attachment remains undefined. Here, we show that T4bP is not sufficient for bacterial attachment, which also requires a secreted protein CofJ, encoded within the same CFA/III operon. The crystal structure of CofB complexed with a peptide encompassing the binding region of CofJ showed that CofJ interacts with CofB by anchoring its flexible N-terminal extension to be embedded deeply into the expected carbohydrate recognition site of the CofB H-type lectin domain. By combining this structure and physicochemical data in solution, we built a plausible model of the CofJ–CFA/III pilus complex, which suggested that CofJ acts as a molecular bridge by binding both T4bP and the host cell membrane. The Fab fragments of a polyclonal antibody against CofJ significantly inhibited bacterial attachment by preventing the adherence of secreted CofJ proteins. These findings signify the interplay between T4bP and a secreted protein for attaching to and colonizing the host cell surface, potentially constituting a therapeutic target against ETEC infection.
Perceptions and attitudes toward clinical trials in adolescent and young adults with cancer: a systematic review

Purpose Although cancer clinical trials (CT) offer opportunities for novel treatments that may lead to improved outcomes, adolescents and young adults (AYA) are less likely to participate in these trials as compared to younger children and older adults. We aimed to identify the perceptions and attitudes toward CT in AYA that influence trial participation. Materials and methods A systematic review of cancer literature was conducted that assessed perceptions and attitudes toward CT enrollment limited to AYA patients (defined as age 15–39). We estimated the frequency of identified themes by pooling identified studies. Results In total, six original research articles were identified that specifically addressed perceptions or attitudes that influenced CT participation in AYA patients. Three studies were conducted at pediatric centers – one at an AYA unit, one at an adult cancer hospital, and one was registry based. Major themes identified for CT acceptability included: hope for positive clinical affect, altruism, and having autonomy. Potential deterrents included: prolonged hospitalization, worry of side effects, and discomfort with experimentation. Conclusion Limited information is available with regard to the perceptions and attitudes toward CT acceptability among AYA patients, especially those treated at adult cancer centers, which prevents generalization of data and themes. Future research assessing strategies for understanding and supporting CT decision-making processes among AYA represents a key focus for future funding to improve CT enrollment.
Who Is Less Likely to Ostracize? Higher Trait Mindfulness Predicts More Inclusionary Behavior

Despite the pain ostracism (being excluded and ignored) causes, researchers have minimally investigated factors related to reducing its occurrence. We investigated the association between higher trait mindfulness (the tendency to be attentive to the present moment) and lower engagement in ostracism. In Study 1, employed adults scoring higher on trait mindfulness reported ostracizing coworkers less. In Study 2, participants possessing higher levels of trait mindfulness demonstrated greater inclusion of a fellow group member being ostracized by others in the group. Results suggested that attention, rather than empathy, was the psychological process responsible for greater inclusion of an ostracized group member by mindful individuals. Study 3 supported this conclusion because participants responded similarly to those high in trait mindfulness when they were instructed to pay attention and ensure all players were included equally. Overall, we found that people with higher levels of trait mindfulness are more attentive to targets of ostracism.
Supraglottic airway devices: recent advances

The classic laryngeal mask airway (cLMA, Intavent Direct, Maidenhead, UK) was introduced into clinical practice in 1988 and by 1989 had been purchased by almost every hospital in the UK. Over the next few years, anaesthetists widened the indications for its use dramatically. Since that revolution, although there have been numerous attempts to compete with the cLMA, further progress has largely been by evolution. According to the NHS Purchasing and Supply Agency ‘Evidence Based Purchasing Guide’ (July 2008), there are 27 standard LM devices available. The cLMA has over 2500 studies supporting it, whereas all others had only 18 between them. There were published comparative data for only three of more than 20 single-use standard laryngeal masks, and that evidence is largely based on lack of harm: benefit or equivalence to the cLMA has largely not been demonstrated. However, this article focuses on newer supraglottic airway devices (SADs), introduced in the last 10 yr, which offer potential benefits over the cLMA. It is based largely on published evidence but is also refined by personal experience.
The dark side of ibuprofen in the treatment of patent ductus arteriosus: could paracetamol be the solution?

ABSTRACT Introduction: Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) persistence is associated, in prematures, to several complications. The optimal PDA management is still under debate, especially regarding the best therapeutic approach and the time to treat. The available drugs are not exempt from contraindications and side effects; ibuprofen itself, although representing the first-choice therapy, can show nephrotoxicity and other complications. Paracetamol seems a valid alternative to classic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory Drugs, with a lower toxicity. Areas covered: Through an analysis of the published literature on ibuprofen and paracetamol effects in preterm neonates, this review compares the available treatments for PDA, analyzing the mechanisms underlining ibuprofen-associated nephrotoxicity and the eventual paracetamol-induced hepatic damage, also providing an update of what has been yet demonstrated and a clear description of the still open issues. Expert Opinion: Paracetamol is an acceptable alternative in case of contraindication to ibuprofen; its toxicity, in this setting, is very low. Lower doses may be effective, with even fewer risks. In the future, paracetamol could represent an efficacious first-line therapy, although its safety, optimal dosage, and global impact have to be fully clarified through long-term trials, also in the perspective of an individualized and person-based therapy taking into account the extraordinary individual variability.