Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
It won't happen to me! Psychosocial factors influencing risk perception for respiratory infectious diseases: A scoping review

Abstract Understanding the determinants of risk perception for COVID‐19 might help to promote self‐preventive behaviours. This scoping review aimed to map the extent, variety and characteristics of the evidence on the possible determinants of risk perception for COVID‐like diseases. PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were searched for original, peer‐reviewed English‐written articles published up to March 2020 and investigating risk perception determinants for respiratory infectious diseases in adults. Titles and abstracts were screened, and full texts were analysed by the first author; when unsure, eligibility was discussed with the last author. Data were collected according to an extraction sheet developed by the first and last authors. The cross‐sectional evidence covers a variety of diseases, countries and timings of testing. Mostly, questionnaires recorded socio‐demographics, media exposure, trust in institutions, disease proximity and knowledge; psychological variables, including personality traits, distress and self‐efficacy, were less investigated. A miscellaneous operationalization of risk perception emerged, including the likelihood of getting sick, perceived dangerousness, concerns or a combination of them. A comprehensive understanding of the substantial amount of evidence may be challenging due to methodological heterogeneity. Referring to uniform theoretical frameworks is recommended; also, longitudinal research may be implemented to probe causal relationships.
Reinforcement Learning-Based Cooperative Optimal Output Regulation via Distributed Adaptive Internal Model

In this article, a data-driven distributed control method is proposed to solve the cooperative optimal output regulation problem of leader–follower multiagent systems. Different from traditional studies on cooperative output regulation, a distributed adaptive internal model is originally developed, which includes a distributed internal model and a distributed observer to estimate the leader’s dynamics. Without relying on the dynamics of multiagent systems, we have proposed two reinforcement learning algorithms, policy iteration and value iteration, to learn the optimal controller through online input and state data, and estimated values of the leader’s state. By combining these methods, we have established a basis for connecting data-distributed control methods with adaptive dynamic programming approaches in general since these are the theoretical foundation from which they are built.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury and Knee Osteoarthritis: An Umbrella Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. Objective: To conduct a systematic review of reviews to summarize the (1) risk for development and (2) prevalence of knee osteoarthritis (OA) after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and surgical treatment and (3) compare prevalence rates between surgical and nonsurgical treatment of ACL injury. Date sources: Five electronic databases were searched using medical subject heading and text words up to February 2020 to identify English language reviews. Study selection: Studies were included if they were a systematic review or meta-analysis. Data extraction: Thirteen eligible reviews were included, and the main outcome extracted was knee OA prevalence or risk data and any meta-analysis results. Data synthesis: Results from reviews were combined with a summary meta-analysis based on odds ratios (ORs) or proportions. There was a near 7-fold and 8-fold increase in the odds for the development of knee OA post ACL injury [OR = 6.81 (5.70-8.13)] and ACL reconstruction [OR = 7.7, (6.05-9.79)]. Data were too heterogenous to specify a point estimate prevalence for OA after ACL injury, but OA prevalence was estimated at 36% (19.70-53.01) at near 10 years after reconstruction surgery. A significantly higher prevalence of OA was found for those who received surgical treatment at a minimum 10-year follow-up [OR = 1.40 (1.17-1.68)]. Conclusions: This study combines all data from previous systematic reviews into a single source to show that ACL injury markedly increases the risk for development of knee OA, which is likely to be present in the long term in approximately a third of patients who have reconstruction surgery. Surgical treatment does not reduce OA prevalence in the longer term compared with nonsurgical treatment.
A high-sensitivity zero-biased magnetoelectric sensor using five-phase laminate composites based on FeCoV nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloy

This paper present a high-sensitivity zero-biased ME sensor consists of FeCoV/Terfenol-D/Pb(Zr1-x,Tix)O3(PZT)/Terfenol-D/FeCoV (FMPMF), whose magnetoelectric (ME) coupling characteristics and ME sensing performance have been investigated. Compared to traditional Terfenol-D/PZT/Terfenol-D (MPM) sensor, the zero-biased ME coupling characteristics of FMPMF sensor were significantly improved. Meanwhile, the induced zero-biased ME voltage of FMPMF sensor shows an excellent linear relationship to ac magnetic field both at the low frequency (1kHz) and the resonant frequency (115.14 kHz). The measured sensitivity at resonance is 1.95 V/Oe and the output resolution is approximately 2.43×10-8T. The proposed FMPMF sensors still have very good performance in the current sensing. The measured results shows an average sensitivity of 1.14 mV/A with highly linear behavior in the current range 1 A to 10 A at 50 Hz. Remarkably, it indicates that the proposed zero-biased miniature ME sensor give the prospect of being able t.
Multisystem physiological reactivity during help-seeking for attachment needs in school-aged children: differences as a function of attachment

ABSTRACT In this study, we sought to expand on what is currently known regarding autonomic nervous system (ANS) reactivity in middle childhood as a function of attachment. ANS activity includes multiple indices – respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) is an index of parasympathetic nervous system activation (PNS) and electrodermal activity (EDA) is an index of sympathetic nervous system activation (SNS). Children (N = 103) completed Child Attachment Interviews and read vignettes describing situations aimed to activate attachment needs (NEED; e.g., getting hurt, which can elicit need for comfort or assistance) and help-seeking (HS; when children experience need and seek comfort from attachment figures), while SNS and PNS reactivity were monitored. Attachment was not associated with children’s SNS or PNS reactivity during NEED, but attachment was associated with physiological reactivity during HS: Dismissing attachment was associated with greater SNS activation (higher EDA) and preoccupied attachment with PNS deactivation (lower RSA, greater vagal withdrawal) during HS.
Behavioural changes during the COVID-19 pandemic: Results of a nationwide survey in Singapore.

INTRODUCTION As part of infection control measures for COVID-19, individuals have been encouraged to adopt both preventive (such as handwashing) and avoidant behavioural changes (e.g. avoiding crowds). In this study, we examined whether demographics predicted the likelihood that a person would adopt these behaviours in Singapore. METHODS A total of 1,145 participants responded to an online survey conducted between 7 March and 21 April 2020. We collected demographic information and asked participants to report which of 17 behaviour changes they had undertaken because of the COVID-19 outbreak. Regression analyses were performed to predict the number of behavioural changes (preventive, avoidant, and total) as a function of demographics. Finally, we sought to identify predictors of persons who declared that they had not undertaken any of these measures following the outbreak. RESULTS Most participants (97%) reported at least one behavioural change on account of the pandemic, with changes increasing with the number of local COVID-19 cases (P<0.001). Additionally, women and those who were younger adopted more preventive behaviours (gender: P<0.001; age: P=0.001). Women were more likely to increase handwashing frequency, and younger individuals were more likely to wear face masks prior to legislation. Finally, women and those who were married adopted more avoidant behaviours (gender: P<0.001; marital status: P<0.001), with both groups avoiding crowded areas and staying home more than usual. Women also voluntarily reduced physical contact, whereas those who were married preferentially chose outdoor venues and relied on online shopping. CONCLUSION Our characterisation of behavioural changes provides a baseline for public health advisories. Moving forward, health authorities can focus their efforts on encouraging segments of the population who do not readily adopt infection control measures against COVID-19.
Early impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and social restrictions on ambulance missions

Abstract Background The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has had a major impact on health care services globally. Recent studies report that emergency departments have experienced a significant decline in the number of admitted patients in the early phase of the pandemic. To date, research regarding the influence of COVID-19 on emergency medical services (EMS) is limited. This study investigates a change in the number and characteristics of EMS missions in the early phase of the pandemic. Methods All EMS missions in the Northern Ostrobothnia region, Finland (population 295 500) between 1 March to 30 June 2020 were screened and analyzed as the study group. A control group was composed from the EMS calls between the corresponding months in the years 2016–19. Results A total of 74 576 EMS missions were screened for the study. Within the first 2 months after the first COVID-19 cases in the study area, the decline in the number of EMS missions was 5.7–13% compared with the control group average. EMS time intervals (emergency call to dispatch, dispatch, en-route, on-scene and hospital handover) prolonged in the COVID-19 period. Dispatches concerning mental health problems increased most in the study period (+1.2%, P < 0.001). Only eleven confirmed COVID-19 infections were encountered by EMS in the study period. Conclusion Our findings suggest that the present COVID-19 pandemic and social restrictions lead to changes in the EMS usage. These preliminary findings emphasize the importance of developing new strategies and protocols in response to the oncoming pandemic waves.
Associations of Physical Activity Level and Variability With 6-Month Weight Change Among 26,935 Users of Connected Devices: Observational Real-Life Study

Background Physical activity (PA) is a modifiable lifestyle factor that can be targeted to increase energy expenditure and promote weight loss. However, the amount of PA required for weight loss remains inconsistent. Wearable activity trackers constitute a valuable opportunity to obtain objective measurements of PA and study large populations in real-life settings. Objective We aim to study the associations of initial device-assessed PA characteristics (average step counts and step count variability) and their evolution with 6-month weight change. Methods We analyzed data from 26,935 Withings-connected device users (wearable activity trackers and digital scales). To assess the initial PA characteristics and their 6-month changes, we used data recorded during the first and sixth 30-day periods of activity tracker use. For each of these periods, we used the monthly mean of daily step values as a proxy for PA level and derived the monthly coefficient of variation (CV) of daily step values to estimate PA level variability. Associations between initial PA characteristics and 6-month weight change were assessed using multivariable linear regression analyses controlled for age, sex, blood pressure, heart rate, and the predominant season. Restricted cubic spline regression was performed to better characterize the continuous shape of the associations between PA characteristics and weight change. Secondary analyses were performed by analyzing the 6-month evolution of PA characteristics in relation to weight change. Results Our results revealed that both a greater PA level and lower PA level variability were associated with weight loss. Compared with individuals who were initially in the sedentary category (<5000 steps/day), individuals who were low active (5000-7499 steps/day), somewhat active (7500-9999 steps/day), and active (≥10,000 steps/day) had a 0.21-kg, a 0.52-kg, and a 1.17-kg greater decrease in weight, respectively (95% CI −0.36 to −0.06, −0.70 to −0.33, and −1.42 to −0.93, respectively). Compared with users whose PA level CV was >63%, users whose PA level CV ranged from 51% to 63%, 40% to 51%, and was ≤40%, had a 0.19-kg, a 0.23-kg, and a 0.33-kg greater decrease in weight, respectively (95% CI −0.38 to −0.01, −0.41 to −0.04, and −0.53 to −0.13, respectively). We also observed that each 1000 steps/day increase in PA level over the 6-month follow-up was associated with a 0.26-kg (95% CI −0.29 to −0.23) decrease in weight. No association was found between the 6-month changes in PA level variability and weight change. Conclusions Our results add to the current body of knowledge that health benefits can be observed below the 10,000 steps/day threshold and suggest that not only increased mean PA level but also greater regularity of the PA level may play important roles in short-term weight loss.
Response to Comment on “Circadian rhythms in the absence of the clock gene Bmal1”

Ness-Cohn et al. claim that our observations of transcriptional circadian rhythms in the absence of the core clock gene Bmal1 in mouse skin fibroblast cells are supported by inadequate evidence. They claim that they were unable to reproduce some of the original ﬁndings with their reanalysis. We disagree with their analyses and outlook.
Expanding the Spectrum of Movement Disorders Associated With C9orf72 Hexanucleotide Expansions

Objective Hexanucleotide repeat expansions (HREs) in C9orf72 are a major cause of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We aimed to determine the frequency and phenomenology of movement disorders (MD) in carriers of HRE in C9orf72 through a retrospective review of patients' medical records. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of patients carrying a C9orf72 HRE in the pathogenic range and compared the characteristics of patients with and without MD. Results Seventeen of 40 patients with a C9orf72 HRE had a documented MD. In 6 of 17, MD were the presenting symptom, and in 2 of 17, MD were the sole manifestation of the disease. FTD was present in 13 of 17 patients, ALS in 5 of 17 patients, and 2 of 17 patients did not develop FTD or ALS. Thirteen of 17 patients had more than one MD. The most common MD were parkinsonism and tremor (resembling essential tremor syndrome), each one present in 11 of 17 patients. Distal, stimulus-sensitive upper limbs myoclonus was present in 6 of 17 patients and cervical dystonia in 5 of 17 patients. Chorea was present in 5 of 17 patients, 4 of whom showed marked orofacial dyskinesias. The most frequent MD combination was tremor and parkinsonism, observed in 8 of 17 patients, 5 of whom also had myoclonus. C9orf72 patients without MD had shorter follow-up times and higher proportion of ALS, although these results did not survive the correction for multiple comparisons. Conclusions MD are frequent in C9orf72. They may precede signs of ALS or FTD, or even be present in isolation. Parkinsonism, tremor, and myoclonus are most commonly observed.
Gapped magnetic ground state in quantum spin liquid candidate κ-(BEDT-TTF)2Cu2(CN)3

A gapped spin liquid Quantum spin liquids avoid conventional magnetic ordering down to the lowest temperatures. Among the candidates for this state of matter, organic salts such as κ-(BEDT-TTF)2Cu2(CN)3 have been prominent. Miksch et al. studied this material using electron spin resonance to elucidate the nature of its ground state. Instead of the expected gapless state, the temperature dependence of spin susceptibility suggests the formation of a spin gap. Science, this issue p. 276 Electron spin resonance measurements show that an organic quantum spin liquid candidate does not have a gapless ground state. Geometrical frustration, quantum entanglement, and disorder may prevent long-range ordering of localized spins with strong exchange interactions, resulting in an exotic state of matter. κ-(BEDT-TTF)2Cu2(CN)3 is considered the prime candidate for this elusive quantum spin liquid state, but its ground-state properties remain puzzling. We present a multifrequency electron spin resonance (ESR) study down to millikelvin temperatures, revealing a rapid drop of the spin susceptibility at 6 kelvin. This opening of a spin gap, accompanied by structural modifications, is consistent with the formation of a valence bond solid ground state. We identify an impurity contribution to the ESR response that becomes dominant when the intrinsic spins form singlets. Probing the electrons directly manifests the pivotal role of defects for the low-energy properties of quantum spin systems without magnetic order.
Contribution of EUV resist counting statistics to stochastic printing failures

Abstract. Background: Stochastic printing failures, manifested as random defects in a patterned photoresist image, result from statistical fluctuations in photon flux and resist components and are a key issue confronting extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography. Empirical data indicate that photoresist composition and processing influence stochastic printing failure rates. Aim: To devise a simple and flexible model framework for assessing how changes in photoresist composition and imaging chemistry can be expected to impact the frequency of stochastic printing failures Approach: A simple physicochemical description based solely on resist component and photon statistics is combined with combinatorial calculations of resist imaging chemistry and Monte Carlo analysis to estimate rates of random printing failures. Results: This model yields results consistent with experimental observations. The method is applied to predict impacts of resist formulation, composition, and process changes on the rates of stochastic printing failures. Conclusions: This approach provides rapid assessment of the relative impact of resist materials and process modifications and is useful as a tool to advance EUV photoresist design.
Fully distributed actor-critic architecture for multitask deep reinforcement learning

Abstract We propose a fully distributed actor-critic architecture, named diffusion-distributed-actor-critic Diff-DAC, with application to multitask reinforcement learning (MRL). During the learning process, agents communicate their value and policy parameters to their neighbours, diffusing the information across a network of agents with no need for a central station. Each agent can only access data from its local task, but aims to learn a common policy that performs well for the whole set of tasks. The architecture is scalable, since the computational and communication cost per agent depends on the number of neighbours rather than the overall number of agents. We derive Diff-DAC from duality theory and provide novel insights into the actor-critic framework, showing that it is actually an instance of the dual-ascent method. We prove almost sure convergence of Diff-DAC to a common policy under general assumptions that hold even for deep neural network approximations. For more restrictive assumptions, we also prove that this common policy is a stationary point of an approximation of the original problem. Numerical results on multitask extensions of common continuous control benchmarks demonstrate that Diff-DAC stabilises learning and has a regularising effect that induces higher performance and better generalisation properties than previous architectures.
circTLK1 facilitates the proliferation and metastasis of renal cell carcinoma by regulating miR-495-3p/CBL axis

Abstract Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a common urological malignancy. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been confirmed to play an important regulatory role in various cancers. This study aimed to investigate the role and potential mechanism of circTLK1 (hsa_circ_0004442) in RCC. The levels of circTLK1, Cbl proto-oncogene (CBL), and microRNA-495-3p (miR-495-3p) were detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction or western blot. Cell proliferation, cycle arrest and apoptosis, migration, and invasion were assessed by colony formation, flow cytometry, scratch, and transwell assays. The levels of E-cadherin and Vimentin were measured by western blot. The targeting relationship between miR-495-3p and miR-495-3p or CBL was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay. Tumor growth in vivo was evaluated by xenograft assay. The results found that circTLK1 and CBL were up-regulated in RCC tissues and cells. Silencing of circTLK1 or CBL inhibited proliferation and metastasis and accelerated apoptosis in RCC cells. In addition, circTLK1 directly bound to miR-495-3p, and CBL was the target of miR-495-3p. circTLK1 sponged miR-495-3p to increase CBL expression. Moreover, knockdown of circTLK1 suppressed tumor growth in vivo. In conclusion, down-regulation of circTLK1 restrained proliferation and metastasis and promoted apoptosis in RCC cells by modulating miR-495-3p/CBL axis.
Tocilizumab for Severe COVID-19 Pneumonia: Experience from 5 Geriatric Chinese Patients with 6 Months Follow-up

Abstract Objective To enable physicians to understand the efficacy and safety of Tocilizumab (TCZ) in patients with severe coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) Methods We respectively reviewed the clinical records, laboratory results, and chest computed tomography (CT) scans of 5 geriatric patients with severe COVID-19 treated with TCZ during their inpatient hospitalization period in Wuhan from February 08, 2020 to April 04, 2020. The survival status of the patients in the third and the sixth month after being discharged was followed up and recorded. Results On the fourteenth day after TCZ administration, periphery oxygen saturation rate (SpO2) returned to normal in 4 patients. The serum Interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels altered in five patients after TCZ infusion. One patient rapidly progressed to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and died of multiple organ failures eventually. The other 4 patients were cured and discharged from the hospital. During the inpatient hospitalization period, two patients suffered from virus shedding periods (VSPs) delay, and one patient had mild upper respiratory tract infection. One patient died of esophageal carcinoma one month after being discharged. The other 3 patients survived despite mild cough and insomnia. Serum-specific IgG type antibody titer was decreased in one patient. Six months after being discharged, the other three patients were in good condition. Conclusion TCZ may be an efficient therapeutic option for patients with COVID-19. However, the possibility of VSPs delay, secondary infection, serum protective antibody tilter attenuation, and long-term survival status should be addressed before TCZ therapy initiation.