Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Comparison Between Two Different Approaches for a Collaborative Mixed-Virtual Environment in Industrial Maintenance

Nowadays the market is becoming increasingly competitive, factories are required not only to enhance the product quality but also to reduce manufacturing and maintenance times. In an industrial context, modern factories are composed by many automated systems, such as industrial robots, which can perform different tasks. Although industrial robots are becoming more powerful and efficient, human workers are still required to accomplish different operations, such as training and maintenance procedures. The proposed research aims to assess a remote interaction system in an industrial training collaborative mixed-reality (CMR) environment. A remote expert user is capable of explaining a training procedure to an unskilled local user. Remote and local users interact using different interaction systems: the remote operator gives assistance using an immersive Virtual Reality (VR) device, whereas the local user interacts using a wearable Augmented Reality (AR) device. A comparison between an interaction based on the presence of a virtual human and one based on the use of abstract icons is proposed. In the first case, a virtual 3D representation of the remote technician is shown to the local user by using AR: the remote technician can pinpoint the components involved in the training procedure and the local user can visualize the instructions through some animations of the virtual avatar. In the second case, the local user cannot see a 3D representation of the remote technician; on the other hand, different 3D models, such as animated icons, are displayed to the local operator through AR depending on the component pinpointed by the remote technician in the virtual environment. Each 3D icon should suggest to the local user which component has to be manipulated at the current step of the procedure. Preliminary results suggest that the interface that requires less resources to be developed and managed should be preferred. Although in no audio condition the virtual avatar may improve the sense of presence of the remote technician, the use of abstract metaphors seems to be of primary importance to successfully complete an industrial task.
Polyextremophilic Bacteria from High Altitude Andean Lakes: Arsenic Resistance Profiles and Biofilm Production

High levels of arsenic present in the High Altitude Andean Lakes (HAALs) ecosystems selected arsenic-resistant microbial communities which are of novel interest to study adaptations mechanisms potentially useful in bioremediation processes. We herein performed a detailed characterization of the arsenic tolerance profiles and the biofilm production of two HAAL polyextremophiles, Acinetobacter sp. Ver3 (Ver3) and Exiguobacterium sp. S17 (S17). Cellular adherence over glass and polypropylene surfaces were evaluated together with the effect of increasing doses and oxidative states of arsenic over the quality and quantity of their biofilm production. The arsenic tolerance outcomes showed that HAAL strains could tolerate higher arsenic concentrations than phylogenetic related strains belonging to the German collection of microorganisms and cell cultures (Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen und Zellkulturen, DSMZ), which suggest adaptations of HAAL strains to their original environment. On the other hand, the crystal violet method (CV) and SEM analysis showed that Ver3 and S17 were able to attach to solid surfaces and to form the biofilm. The quantification of biofilms production in 48 hours' cultures through CV shows that Ver3 yielded higher production in the treatment without arsenic cultured on a glass support, while S17 yield higher biofilm production under intermediate arsenic concentration on glass supports. Polypropylene supports had negative effects on the biofilm production of Ver3 and S17. SEM analysis shows that the highest biofilm yields could be associated with a larger number of attached cells as well as the development of more complex 3D multicellular structures.
Epidemiologic Features of Traumatic Fractures in Children and Adolescents: A 9-Year Retrospective Study

Purpose Fractures are common among all types of paediatric injuries, with differences in incidence over time. Here, we present the epidemiologic features of traumatic fractures in a population of youth ≤ 18 years of age who were admitted to our university-affiliated hospitals from 2002 to 2010. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 2450 children and adolescents who had traumatic fractures. The data include variables such as age, sex, date of injury, and the mechanism of injury. For the period of 2002-2010, there were 2450 injury events that resulted in at least 1 fracture. Results Low falls (1042, 42.5%) and upper limb fractures (1068, 43.6%) were the most common aetiologies and fracture sites. With increasing age, the proportion of injuries due to motor vehicle collisions (MVCs) decreased and the injuries due to being hit by others and due to sprains increased. With increasing age, the proportion of craniofacial fractures (CFFs) decreased, and lower limb fractures (LLFs), spinal fractures (SFs), and fractures of ribs and the sternum (RSFs) increased. Over time, the proportion of injuries due to MVCs and mechanical injury decreased. Male patients presented with a significantly higher proportion of injuries due to low falls, being struck by an object, being hit by others, and due to sprains. There were a significantly lower proportion of injuries due to MVCs in female patients. Male patients presented with a significantly higher proportion of ULFs in the ≤6-year-old age group and a significantly lower proportion of LLFs and SFs in the 12-18-year-old age group than did female patients. Conclusions Low falls and upper limb fractures were the leading cause and fracture sites. To further improve the prevention and treatment of traumatic fractures in children and adolescents, policy makers should pay attention to these characteristics.
A check list and population trends of invasive amphibians and reptiles in Taiwan

Abstract Invasive species have impacted biodiversity all around the world. Among various ecosystems, islands are most vulnerable to these impacts due to their high ratio of endemism, highly specialized adaptation, and isolated and unique fauna. As with other subtropical islands, Taiwan faces constant risk of biological invasions and is currently ranked as one of the countries most affected by invasive amphibians and reptiles. In this paper, a comprehensive checklist of all known exotic amphibians and reptiles is provided, including twelve species which have successfully colonized Taiwan and six species with a controversial status. We provide an update on the knowledge of all these species including their distribution, colonization history, threats to native animals, and population trends based on literature records, fauna surveys, and data collected during invasive species eradication and control programs. A list of species with high invasive potentials is also provided. This study reports, for the first time, a comprehensive survey of invasive herpetofauna in Taiwan, which should provide a valuable reference to other regions which might suffer from similar invasion risk.
A Cue for Rational Reasoning: Introducing a Reference Point in Cognitive Reflection Tasks

The dual process framework posits that we reason using the quick System 1, and the deliberate System 2, both of which are part of our “adaptive toolbox”. The Cognitive Reflection Test (CRT) estimates which system was used to solve a reasoning problem. Usually, the CRT tasks are solved incorrectly by using System 1, and correctly through System 2. We have applied the reference point hypothesis to the tasks of the CRT and proposed that this change would facilitate the switch between systems, resulting in better performance on the version of the test with a reference point, compared to the CRT without one. The results confirmed our assumptions, as evidenced by a generally higher score on the CRT with a reference point, albeit with different effects between items.
The Reliability and Validity of the Malay Parent-Report Version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire

Background The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) is a screening questionnaire that measures children’s emotional and behavioural problems. This study examines the reliability and validity of the Malay parent-report version of the SDQ. Methods The Malay adult-report version of the SDQ was administered to 495 parents and 432 teachers, respectively. At the same time, a newly translated Malay child-report version of the SDQ was also administered to 150 children aged 13 to 14 years old in this community study. W e measured internal reliability using Cronbach’s Alpha for all reported data. Construct validity of the parent-report data was assessed using factor analysis. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was also subsequently perform on parent-report data to explain the model fit indices of this questionnaire. Result Cronbach’s Alpha was acceptable for all parent, teacher and child-report data with values of 0.74, 0.77 and 0.78, respectively. Factor analysis of the parent’s report showed a five-factor solution, which was consistent with other psychometric evaluations of the SDQ in other languages. CFA showed good model fit of the original five factor model which consists of Emotional, Conduct, Hyperactivity, Peer problem and Pro-social scale. Conclusion This study shows that the psychometric properties of the Malay parent-report version of the SDQ were similar to other parent-report version of the SDQ questionnaires in other languages, although cross-cultural differences may still exist.
Fiscal Consequences of Monetary Integration within a Common Economic Area: The Case of Belarus, Kazakhstan and Russia

This article analyses the possible impact of planned monetary integration on public sector revenue from seigniorage in Belarus, Kazakhstan and Russia. Using the concept of total gross seigniorage, we investigate the main sources and uses of the central bank revenue in these countries. Special attention is given to the role of seigniorage revenue in financing public sector expenditure. Amounts of yearly transfers from central banks to the state budget in Belarus, Kazakhstan and Russia are evaluated, and the size of potential gains and losses in seigniorage revenue under different scenarios of monetary integration are estimated.
The Effect of Modified Sini Decoction on Survival Rates of Patients with Hepatitis B Virus Related Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure

Aim of the Study. To verify the effect of modified sini decoction on patients with hepatitis B virus related acute-on-chronic liver failure. Materials and Methods. A retrospective cohort study was conducted. Patients who had been treated with modified sini decoction and standard comprehensive internal medicine were assigned to an observation group, and patients who had been treated with standard comprehensive internal medicine were selected as a control group. The total bilirubin (TBIL), albumin (ALB), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), prothrombin activity (PTA), CTP, and MELD scores were analyzed at weeks 4, 8, and 12 after treatment, respectively. Meanwhile, the 12-week survival rate was analyzed. Results. The levels of TBIL and ALT were remarkably decreased, while the levels of ALB and PTA were remarkably increased in both groups at weeks 4, 8, and 12 after treatment, respectively, but the effects in the observation group were greater (P < 0.05). The CTP and MELD scores at 8-week and 12-week were lower in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). At 12 weeks, the mean survival times of the observation group and the control group were 66.7 and 45.5 d, respectively. Significant improvement of 12-week survival rate [39/62 (62.9%) versus 18/50 (36.0%), P = 0.001] was observed in the observation group after treatment. Conclusions. Modified sini decoction could protect the liver function and improve the survival rates of patients with hepatitis B virus related acute-on-chronic liver failure.
An Update of the Appropriate Treatment Strategies in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer: A Population-Based Study of 735 Patients

Background Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) responds poorly to conventional therapies and requires a multidisciplinary approach to manage. The aim of the current study is to explore whether aggressive treatment is beneficial, especially the appropriate extent of surgery in ATC. Methods Patients diagnosed with ATC from 2004 to 2014 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database and included in our study. Results A total of 735 ATC patients were identified. The two-year overall survival (OS) rates for stage IVA, IVB, and IVC patients were 36.5%, 15.6%, and 1.4%, respectively. By directly comparing eight treatment modalities, we found that surgery + radiotherapy (RT) ± chemotherapy was the most effective treatment strategy. surgery + chemotherapy and RT + chemotherapy had comparable results (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.461, 95% confidential interval (CI): 0.843-2.531, P = 0.177). Multivariate Cox regression analysis also showed increased mortality risk in patients with increased age (HR = 1.022, P < 0.001), tumor extension to adjacent structures (HR = 1.649, P = 0.013), and distant metastasis (HR = 2.041, P < 0.001), while surgery + RT (HR = 0.600, P = 0.004) and chemotherapy (HR = 0.692, P = 0.010) were independently associated with improved OS. Further analysis revealed that patients undergoing total/near-total thyroidectomy (TT) had superior OS to those receiving less than TT (P < 0.001). In subgroup analysis, the benefit of TT remained significant in patients with tumors larger than 4.0 cm (HR = 0.776, 95% CI: 0.469-0.887, P = 0.007), with adjacent structure extension (HR = 0.642, 95% CI: 0.472-0.877, P = 0.005), including trachea and major vessels, but not in patients with early phase local disease such as tumor ≤ 4.0 cm or tumor within the thyroid or with minimal extrathyroidal extension. Patients with very locally advanced disease or distant metastasis could not benefit from TT as well. Conclusions In operable cases, surgery + RT ± chemotherapy was the optimal treatment modality. Otherwise, RT + chemotherapy was the appropriate strategy. However, TT was not beneficial for very early stage or metastatic ATC.
Barriers to the non-acceptance of cervical cancer screenings (pap smear test) in women of childbearing age in a rural area of Peru

Introduction According to recent statistics, there is a high percentage of refusal of cervical cancer screening using the Pap smear test by women in rural communities in developing countries such as Peru. There are few studies on the reasons to explain said refusal in this country. The objective of this study was to determine the barriers related to the non-acceptance of cervical cancer screening using the Pap smear test in women of childbearing age from a rural Peruvian community. Methods Cross-sectional study, with a total of 892 women of childbearing age from the rural Peruvian community of Marián, Huaraz province, Ancash region, who did not accept screening for cervical cancer using the Pap smear test during their care at the Marián Health Centre. A questionnaire given from September 2017 to April 2018 was used. The information was processed with the statistics programme for social science 22.0 programme, using the Chi-square statistical test. Results For 4–6 years, 52.5% of women refused cervical cancer screening using the Pap smear test. The barriers that showed a statistically significant relationship to the non-acceptance of cervical cancer screening using the Pap test were socio-demographic (age, marital status, education level, occupation and home income) and institutional barriers (counselling for cervical cancer screening, importance of the gender of health personnel administering the screening, history of mistreatment by health personnel, fear or embarrassment of the screening procedure and a delay in sending the results) (p < 0.05); while a history of sexually transmitted infections and a feeling of physical well-being in sexual and reproductive health were the only related reproductive barriers (p <0.05), this was not demonstrated with the age of first sexual activity, number of sexual partners, age of first pregnancy and total number of pregnancies (p > 0.05). Conclusions Socio-demographic and institutional barriers are related to the non-acceptance of cervical cancer screening using the Pap test in women of childbearing age in the rural Peruvian community of Marián, with a lesser emphasis on reproductive barriers. With this in mind, we recommend undertaking broader studies in populations of different age groups, which should be oriented towards the design and application of preventive/promotional programmes by health institutions to promote the participation of community workers with the goal of aiding the identification and control of said barriers, reducing the refusal of cervical cancer screenings by women from rural areas.
Sample Size Guidelines for Logistic Regression from Observational Studies with Large Population: Emphasis on the Accuracy Between Statistics and Parameters Based on Real Life Clinical Data

Background Different study designs and population size may require different sample size for logistic regression. This study aims to propose sample size guidelines for logistic regression based on observational studies with large population. Methods We estimated the minimum sample size required based on evaluation from real clinical data to evaluate the accuracy between statistics derived and the actual parameters. Nagelkerke r-squared and coefficients derived were compared with their respective parameters. Results With a minimum sample size of 500, results showed that the differences between the sample estimates and the population was sufficiently small. Based on an audit from a medium size of population, the differences were within ± 0.5 for coefficients and ± 0.02 for Nagelkerke r-squared. Meanwhile for large population, the differences are within ± 1.0 for coefficients and ± 0.02 for Nagelkerke r-squared. Conclusions For observational studies with large population size that involve logistic regression in the analysis, taking a minimum sample size of 500 is necessary to derive the statistics that represent the parameters. The other recommended rules of thumb are EPV of 50 and formula; n = 100 + 50i where i refers to number of independent variables in the final model.
Experimental Study on Upper-Limb Rehabilitation Training of Stroke Patients Based on Adaptive Task Level: A Preliminary Study

During robot-aided motion rehabilitation training, inappropriate difficulty of the training task usually leads the subject becoming bored or frustrated; therefore, the difficulty of the training task has an important influence on the effectiveness of training. In this study, an adaptive task level strategy is proposed to intelligently serve the subject with a task of suitable difficulty. To make the training task attractive and continuously stimulate the patient's training enthusiasm, diverse training tasks based on grabbing game with visual feedback are developed. Meanwhile, to further enhance training awareness and inculcate a sense of urgency, a dynamic score feedback method is used in the design of the training tasks. Two types of experiments, functional and clinical rehabilitation experiments, were performed with a healthy adult and two recruited stroke patients, respectively. The experimental results suggest that the proposed adaptive task level strategy and dynamic score feedback method are effective strategies with respect to incentive function and rehabilitation efficacy.
Plasma neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and factors related to acute kidney injury and mortality in critically ill cancer patients

Rationale Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent complication in critically ill cancer patients. Objectives To assess plasma neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) levels and risks factors associated with AKI and mortality. Methods We recruited 96 critically ill cancer patients and followed them prospectively. Plasma NGAL levels were determined at intensive care unit (ICU) admission and at 48 hours. We generated receiver operating characteristic curves to assess the ability of NGAL to predict AKI. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine risks factors associated with AKI. Cox-regression analysis was performed to evaluate 6-month mortality. Measurements and main results From 96 patients, 60 (63%) developed AKI and 33 (55%) were classified as stages 2 and 3. In patients without AKI at admission, plasma NGAL levels revealed an area under the curve (AUC) = 0.522 for all AKI stages and an AUC = 0.573 for stages 2 and 3 AKI (85% sensitivity and 67% specificity for a 50.66 ng/mL cutoff). We identified sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score (without renal parameters) at admission as an independent factor for developing stages 2 and 3 AKI, and haemoglobin as a protective factor. We observed that metastatic disease, dobutamine use and stage 3 AKI were independent factors associated with 6-month mortality. Conclusions In our cohort of critically ill cancer patients, NGAL did not predict AKI. SOFA score was a risk factor for developing AKI, and haemoglobin level was a protective factor for developing AKI. The independent factors associated with 6-month mortality included metastatic disease, dobutamine use, lactate and stage 3 AKI.