Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Oral Health and Cognitive Function in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III)

Objectives: To investigate the association between oral health and cognitive function in early-, mid-, and late-adult life. Methods: A secondary analysis was carried out of a large, well-characterized community sample (NHANES III). Analyzed variables included three measures of oral health (gingival bleeding, loss of periodontal attachment, loss of teeth) and three measures of cognitive function: the Symbol Digit Substitution Test (SDST), the Serial Digit Learning Test (SDLT) (both in 5138 participants aged 20–59 years), and a Story Recall test (in 1555 participants aged ≥70 years). Other covariates in linear regression models included age, gender, ethnicity, education and poverty, and cardiovascular risk factors. Results: Worse scores on all three measures of oral health status were significantly associated with poorer performance on all three measures of cognitive function after adjustment for age. Education was an important confounding factor. However, after full adjustment for all other covariates, gingival bleeding (%) and loss of periodontal attachment (%) remained associated with relative impairment on SDST score (B coefficients both = 0.003), and gingival bleeding was associated with relative impairment on SDLT (B = 0.017). No effect modification by age was observed. Conclusions: Poor oral health is associated with worse cognitive function throughout adult life. This may, in part, be accounted for by early life education and social status. However, the possibility of direct causal pathways requires further investigation. NHANES III = Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey; SDST = Symbol Digit Substitution Test; SDLT = Serial Digit Learning Test.
The association between brain volumes, delirium duration, and cognitive outcomes in intensive care unit survivors: The VISIONS cohort magnetic resonance imaging study*

Objective:Delirium duration is predictive of long-term cognitive impairment in intensive care unit survivors. Hypothesizing that a neuroanatomical basis may exist for the relationship between delirium and long-term cognitive impairment, we conducted this exploratory investigation of the associations between delirium duration, brain volumes, and long-term cognitive impairment. Design, Setting, and Patients:A prospective cohort of medical and surgical intensive care unit survivors with respiratory failure or shock. Measurements:Quantitative high resolution 3-Tesla brain magnetic resonance imaging was used to calculate brain volumes at discharge and 3-month follow-up. Delirium was evaluated using the confusion assessment method for the intensive care unit; cognitive outcomes were tested at 3- and 12-month follow-up. Linear regression was used to examine associations between delirium duration and brain volumes, and between brain volumes and cognitive outcomes. Results:A total of 47 patients completed the magnetic resonance imaging protocol. Patients with longer duration of delirium displayed greater brain atrophy as measured by a larger ventricle-to-brain ratio at hospital discharge (0.76, 95% confidence intervals [0.10, 1.41]; p = .03) and at 3-month follow-up (0.62 [0.02, 1.21], p = .05). Longer duration of delirium was associated with smaller superior frontal lobe (−2.11 cm3 [−3.89, −0.32]; p = .03) and hippocampal volumes at discharge (−0.58 cm3 [−0.85, −0.31], p < .001)—regions responsible for executive functioning and memory, respectively. Greater brain atrophy (higher ventricle-to-brain ratio) at 3 months was associated with worse cognitive performances at 12 months (lower Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status score −11.17 [−21.12, −1.22], p = .04). Smaller superior frontal lobes, thalamus, and cerebellar volumes at 3 months were associated with worse executive functioning and visual attention at 12 months. Conclusions:These preliminary data show that longer duration of delirium is associated with smaller brain volumes up to 3 months after discharge, and that smaller brain volumes are associated with long-term cognitive impairment up to 12 months. We cannot, however, rule out that smaller preexisting brain volumes explain these findings.
The Association of Metabolic Syndrome and Serum γ-Glutamyl Transpeptidase: A 4-Year Cohort Study of 3,698 Korean Male Workers

The aim of the present study was to examine the causal-effect of baseline (year 2004) serum γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) level with the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) in year 2008. The study was comprised of male workers who underwent a regular health check-up in 2004 and 2008. MS was diagnosed according to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) criteria. In the subgroup analysis according to serum GGT level, triglyceride (TG), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and total cholesterol (TC) showed a significant increasing tendency (p < 0.001). In addition, unexpectedly results were consistent in non-drinkers (p < 0.001). GGT level was significantly associated with risk factors of MS (waist circumference [WC]: r = 0.18, p < 0.001; fasting blood glucose [FBG]: r = 0.16, p < 0.001; TG: r = 0.29, p < 0.001). As the secondary biomarker, homeostasis model assessment of insulin sensitivity (HOMA-S) and TC had significant correlations with GGT level (HOMA-S: r = -0.14, p < 0.001; TC: r = 0.21, p < 0.001). In the 4-year prospective analysis, the predictive effect of baseline GGT concentrations on change in MS status was evaluated using Cox proportional model. Elevated GGT concentrations measured in 2004 were associated with the risk of MS incidence after 4 years (GGT: HR 1.7 [95% CI: 1.2-2.3]) (p < 0.01). This observation indicates that an elevated GGT level could be suggested as a subsidiary marker for MS and partially reflects dyslipidemia as a component of MS.
Board Attributes and Financial Performance: The Evidence from an Emerging Economy

ABSTRACT:In last few decades, impact of corporate governance and financial performance gained tremendous attention of the researchers and policy makers. From agency theory and resource dependence perspective different characteristics of the board can help to achieve the goal of good governance and ultimately affect financial performance. Abundant literature is available on the link between board parameters and firm's financial performance but for developing economies the exploration is still in drought. Considering this, the purpose of this study is to explore the impact of board characteristics on financial performance of the listed companies in Pakistan Stock Exchange, Pakistan. Various board parameters such as board size, number of meetings, board independence, audit committee independence, gender diversity in board and executive directors' compensation are addressed in this study. Data for this research is collected from the listed companies of Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) represent six different sectors of the economy. The annual data of selected companies collected from 2009 to 2015. The overall year–firm observations are 1074. Data related to board characteristics and financial performance collected from the audited published annual reports and balance sheets of the selected companies as well as from the publications of State Bank of Pakistan. Accounting and market measures are taken as indicators of financial performance and consider as the outcome variables in this study, whereas the board characteristics are taken as explanatory variables. Panel Data regression analysis revealed that, after controlling for size of firm, board size, audit committee independence are positively linked with firms financial performance, whereas board independence and gender diversity are negatively associated with firms financial performance. However, board meetings found to be insignificant variable. Furthermore, Analysis of Variance describe that there is significant variation with respect to financial performance and board parameters among different sectors of the economy. The study determines that board characteristics influence the firm financial performances in emerging country's perspective have some consistent findings. However, some findings differ as compared to developed country's context, which limit the generalization of the study.
On the Dynamics of Inflation-Stock Returns in India

In this paper, an attempt is made to examine the relationship between inflation and stock returns in India using spectral and time-frequency methods. Scale specific relation between inflation and stock returns is unraveled, allowing us to capture the relationship at varying investment horizons. The results based on monthly data from 1994:5 to 2014:11, obtained using spectral and wavelet techniques, reveal that there exist no significant pro-cyclical interdependencies between inflation and stock returns, implying that stock returns is no longer an adequate hedge against inflation.
Local circuit for the computation of object approach by an identified visual neuron in the locust

The lobula giant movement detector (LGMD) neuron in the locust visual system is part of a motion‐sensitive pathway that detects objects approaching on a collision course. Here we show that the retinotopic units presynaptic to the LGMD make synapses directly with each other and these synapses are immediately adjacent to their outputs onto the LGMD. Synapses occur along the fine dendrites of the LGMD in the distal lobula, often in large numbers and completely covering the LGMD processes. Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) was eliminated as a possible neurotransmitter at these synapses when immunogold‐tagged monoclonal GABA antibody did not specifically label the afferent processes. We used a histochemical method to demonstrate that acetylcholine esterase, the enzyme that hydrolyses acetylcholine at cholinergic synapses, was present in the synaptic clefts between the retinotopic units and along the membrane of the LGMD. It is well established that acetylcholine has both excitatory and inhibitory effects and we propose that these retinotopic units excite the LGMD, but inhibit each other; and that the synapses form the substrate for a critical race between excitation caused by edges moving out over successive photoreceptors, and inhibition spreading laterally. This results in the selective response to objects approaching on a collision course. J. Comp. Neurol. 395:405–415, 1998. © 1998 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
24/7 SM Slavery

Abstract This study describes the nature of 24/7 SM slavery as practiced within the SM (sadomasochistic) commmunity. These SM participants, who attempt to live full-time in owner-slave roles, represent a small proportion of those with SM interests. SM slaves have not been studied systematically to determine if and how they differ from other SM practitioners. An online questionnaire was used to obtain responses from individuals who self-identified as slaves. A total of 146 respondents participated, 53% female and 47% male, ranging in age from 18 to 72. We explored the depth of their relationships, how well they approximated “slavery,” and how their relationships were structured to maintain distinct roles. Data showed that in long-term SM slave relationships, a power differential exists which extends beyond time-limited SM or sexual interactions. Owners and slaves often use common, daily life experiences or situations, such as the completion of household chores, money management, and morning or evening routines, to distinguish and maintain their respective roles. In addition, contrary to the perception of total submission, results revealed that slaves exercise free will when it is in their best interests to do so. These relationships were long-lasting and satisfying to the respondents.
Incidence and Risk Factors for Incident Hepatitis C Infection Among Men Who Have Sex With Men With HIV-1 Infection in a Large Urban HIV Clinic in Tokyo

Background:The epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM) who do not inject drugs in Asia remains unknown. Method:The incidence and risk factors for incident HCV infection among HIV-infected MSM at a large HIV clinic in Tokyo were elucidated. Poisson regression compared the incidence of HCV seroconversion at different observation periods. Results:Of 753 HIV-1 infected MSM patients negative for HCV antibody (HCVAb) at baseline and available follow-up HCVAb test, 21 patients (2.8%) seroconverted to HCVAb positive over 2246 person-years (PY), for an incidence of 9.35 per 1000 PY. The incidence increased over time from 0 per 1000 PY in 2005–2006, 3.0 per 1000 PY in 2007–2008, 7.7 per 1000 PY in 2009–2010, to 24.9 per 1000 PY in 2011–2012 (P = 0.012). Of 21 incident cases, only 4 (19%) were injection drug users, and sensitivity analysis that excluded injection drug users yielded similar findings. Multivariate analysis identified illicit drug use to be an independent risk for HCV infection (hazard ratio = 3.006; 95% confidence interval: 1.092 to 8.275; P = 0.033). Conclusions:Incident HCV infection is increasing among HIV-1-infected MSM noninjection drug users at resource-rich setting in Asia. Illicit drug use is an independent risk factor for incident HCV infection in this population.
WILL WHOLE‐BODY VIBRATION TRAINING HELP INCREASE THE RANGE OF MOTION OF THE HAMSTRINGS?

Muscle strain is one of the most common injuries, resulting in a decreased range of motion (ROM) in this group of muscles. Systematic stretching over a period of time is needed to increase the ROM. The purpose of this study was to determine if whole-body vibration (WBV) training would have a positive effect on flexibility training (contract-release method) and thereby on the ROM of the hamstring musculature. In this study, 19 undergraduate students in physical education (12 women and 7 men, age 21.5 ± 2.0 years) served as subjects and were randomly assigned to either a WBV group or a control group. Both groups stretched systematically 3 times per week for 4 weeks according to the contract-release method, which consists of a 5-second isometric contraction with each leg 3 times followed by 30 seconds of static stretching. Before each stretching exercise, the WBV group completed a WBV program consisting of standing in a squat position on the vibration platform with the knees bent 908 on the Nemes Bosco system vibration platform (30 seconds at 28 Hz, 10-mm amplitude, 6 times per training session). The results show that both groups had a significant increase in hamstring flexibility. However, the WBV group showed a significantly larger increase (30%) in ROM than did the control group (14%). These results indicate that WBV training may have an extra positive effect on flexibility of the hamstrings when combined with the contract-release stretching method.
Reconciling the Roles of Orbitofrontal Cortex in Reversal Learning and the Encoding of Outcome Expectancies

Abstract: Damage to orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) has long been associated with decision‐making deficits. Such deficits are epitomized by impairments in reversal learning. Historically, reversal learning deficits have been linked to a response inhibition function or to the rapid reversal of associative encoding in OFC neurons. However here we will suggest that OFC supports reversal learning not because its encoding is particularly flexible—indeed it actually is not—but rather because output from OFC is critical for flexible associative encoding downstream in basolateral amygdala (ABL). Consistent with this argument, we will show that reversal performance is actually inversely related to the flexibility of associative encoding in OFC (i.e., the better the reversal performance, the less flexible the encoding). Further, we will demonstrate that associative correlates in ABL are more flexible during reversal learning than in OFC, become less flexible after damage to OFC, and are required for the expression of the reversal deficit caused by OFC lesions. We will propose that OFC facilitates associative flexibility in downstream regions, such as ABL, for the same reason that it is critical for outcome‐guided behavior in a variety of setting—namely that processing in OFC signals the value of expected outcomes. In addition to their role in guiding behavior, these outcome expectancies permit the rapid recognition of unexpected outcomes, thereby driving new learning.
Is There Still a Place for Cast Wedging in Pediatric Forearm Fractures?

Background: Forearm fractures are common skeletal injuries in childhood and can usually be treated nonoperatively with closed reduction and casting. Trends toward increasing operative treatment of these fractures have emerged. We aim to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of cast wedging for treatment of pediatric forearm fractures. Methods: We performed a prospective chart review of patients with forearm fractures, including distal radius (DR) fractures, treated with cast wedging at a single large pediatric hospital from June 2011 to September 2012. Inclusion criteria specified open distal radial physis, closed injury, loss of acceptable reduction, and availability of clinical and radiographic data from injury to cast removal. Exclusion criteria included pathologic fractures, neurovascular injury, fracture dislocations, open fractures, and closed DR physis. Reductions were performed and patients followed according to standard protocol at our institution, including placement into long-arm casts, initial follow-up visit within 5 to 10 days postinjury, and weekly visits for 2 weeks thereafter. If alignment were deemed unacceptable within 3 weeks of injury, cast wedging was utilized. Radiographic measurements of alignment included both radius and ulna on the injury film, postreduction, prewedge, postwedge, and final films. Radiographic technique was standardized, with repeatability testing demonstrating a precision of ±2 degrees. Results: Over 15 months, our hospital treated 2124 forearm or DR fractures with closed reduction and casting. There were 60 fractures treated either with percutaneous fixation (36) or open treatment (24). A total of 79 forearm or DR fractures were treated with cast wedging secondary to loss of reduction, of which 70 patients had complete clinical and radiographic data. Average age was 8.4 years (range, 3 to 14 y), with 25 females and 45 males. Significant improvement in angulation for both-bone forearm fracture from prewedge to final films was seen in 69 children, with no major complications. One patient failed wedging and required surgical reduction and fixation. Conclusions: Cast wedging is a simple, safe, noninvasive, and effective method for treatment of excessive angulation in pediatric forearm fractures. Level of Evidence: Level IV.
Long-term performance and transfer of shares on the Tunisian Stock Exchange

In this study, we examine the long-run performance of a sample of 32 Tunisian crosslisted firms on the Tunisian stock exchange over the period 1992-2006. We use several approaches and conduct robust tests. We observed a strong underperformance of 32 percent over the 36-month period following the listing, when the buy-and-hold abnormal return measure is used. The underperformance is preceded by a positive and significant return of about 20 percent on the first 5 days of listing, which persists for 6 months. We also assess the role of governance variables. The agency theory explains the behaviour of controlling stockholders when transferring stocks. Considering other control variables shows that the hypothesis of the window opportunity explains the underperformance and that the ex-ante uncertainty, measured by the age of the newly listed firm, participate in the deterioration of the long-term stock performance.
Self-perception of aging and vulnerability to adverse outcomes at the age of 65-70 years.

OBJECTIVES This study examines the relationship between self-perception of aging and vulnerability to adverse outcomes in adults aged 65-70 years using data from a cohort of 1,422 participants in Lausanne, Switzerland. METHODS A positive or negative score of perception of aging was established using the Attitudes Toward Own Aging subscale including 5 items of the Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale. Falls, hospitalizations, and difficulties in basic and instrumental activities of daily living (ADL) collected in the first 3 years of follow-up were considered adverse outcomes. The relationship between perception and outcomes were evaluated using multiple logistic regression models adjusting for chronic medical conditions, depressive feelings, living arrangement, and socioeconomic characteristics. RESULTS The strongest associations of self-perception of aging with outcomes were observed for basic and instrumental ADL. Associations with falls and hospitalizations were not constant but could be explained by health characteristics. CONCLUSIONS A negative self-perception of aging is an indicator of risk for future disability in ADL. Factors such as a low-economic status, living alone, multiple chronic medical conditions, and depressive feelings contribute to a negative self-perception of aging but do not explain the relationship with incident activities of daily living disability.
Genetic polymorphism of angiotensin-converting enzyme and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy risk

Background: Genetic factors in the pathogenesis of cardiomyopathies have received a lot of attention during the past 2 decades. Some studies have reported that angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene has been associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). However, there have been inconsonant results among different studies. To clarify the influence of ACE on HCM, a systemic review and meta-analysis of case–control studies were performed. Methods: The following databases were searched to indentify related studies: PubMed database, the Embase database, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials database, China National Knowledge Information database, and Chinese Scientific and Technological Journal database. Search terms included “hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,” “angiotensin converting enzyme” or “ACE,” and “polymorphism or mutation. ” Results: Fifteen separate studies were suitable for the inclusion criterion. The selected studies contained 2972 participants, including 1047 in HCM group and 1925 controls. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) were calculated to assess the association between ACE insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism and HCM. Our case–control data indicated that D allele carrier is a risk allele in all genetic models: allele contrast (D vs I: OR = 1.35, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.10–1.65, P = .004), homozygous comparison (DD vs II: OR = 1.69; 95% CI: 1.12–2.54; P = .01), dominant model (DD + ID vs II: OR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.15–2.02, P = .003), and recessive model (DD vs ID + II: OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 0.99–1.81, P = .03). Conclusion: In summary, the current meta-analysis provided solid evidence suggesting that ACE gene I/D polymorphism was probably a genetic risk factor for HCM.