Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Combinations of alcohol-induced flushing with genetic polymorphisms of alcohol and aldehyde dehydrogenases and the risk of alcohol dependence in Japanese men and women

Objective The risk of alcohol dependence (AD) in Japanese men and women was evaluated according to combinations of alcohol flushing and aldehyde dehydrogenase-2 (ALDH2, rs671) and alcohol dehydrogenase-1B (ADH1B, rs1229984) genotypes, all of which are known to determine AD susceptibility in Asians. Previous studies have focused on men, since women account for a smaller proportion of AD subjects. Methods Case control studies were conducted between 3721 male and 335 female AD Japanese and 610 male and 406 female controls who were asked about their current or former tendency to experience facial flushing after drinking a glass of beer and underwent ALDH2 and ADH1B genotyping. The time at which alcohol-induced facial flushing tendencies had disappeared in former-flushing AD subjects was also evaluated. Results Current alcohol flushing, the inactive ALDH2*1/*2 genotype, and the fast-metabolizing ADH1B*2 allele were less frequently found in the AD groups. Although alcohol flushing was strongly influenced by the ALDH2 and ADH1B genotypes, multiple logistic model showed that never or former flushing and the genotype combinations were independent strong risk factors of AD in men and women. Never or former flushing (vs. current flushing) markedly increased the odds ratios of AD in carriers of each of the ALDH2 and ADH1B genotype combinations. The temporal profiles for drinking and flushing in former-flushing AD subjects revealed that the flushing response disappeared soon after or before the start of habitual drinking during young adulthood, regardless of the ALDH2 genotype. Conclusion Although alcohol flushing is influenced by the ALDH2 and ADH1B genotypes, constitutional or acquired flushing tolerance is an independent susceptibility trait for AD. The combination of the alcohol flushing status and the ALDH2 and ADH1B genotypes can provide a better new strategy for AD risk assessment than the alcohol flushing status alone or the genotypes alone in Asian men and women.
Clinically decisive (dis)agreement in multidisciplinary team assessment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma; a prospective, national, multicenter study

Abstract Background Decisions regarding tumor staging, operability, resectability, and treatment strategy in patients with esophageal cancer are made at multidisciplinary team (MDT) conferences. We aimed to assess interobserver agreement from four national MDT conferences and whether this would have a clinical impact. Methods A total of 20 patients with esophageal cancer were included across all four upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancer centers. Fully anonymized patient data were distributed among the MDT conferences which decided on TNM category, resectability, operability, curability, and treatment strategy blinded to each other’s decisions. The interobserver agreement was expressed as both the raw observer agreement and with Krippendorff’s α values. Finally, a case-by-case evaluation was performed to determine if disagreement would have had a clinical impact. Results A total of 80 MDT evaluations were available for analysis. A moderate to near-perfect observer agreement of 79.2%, 55.8%, and 82.5% for TNM category was observed, respectively. Substantial agreement for resectability and moderate agreement for curability were found. However, an only fair agreement was observed for the operability category. The treatment strategies had a slight agreement which corresponded to disagreement having a clinical impact in 12 patients. Conclusions Esophageal cancer MDT conferences had an acceptable interobserver agreement on resectability and TM categories; however, the operability assessment had a high level of disagreement. Consequently, the agreement on treatment strategy was reduced with a potential clinical impact. In future MDT conferences, emphasis should be on prioritizing the relevant information being readily available (operability, T & M categories) to minimize the risk of disagreement in the assessments and treatment strategies, and thus, delayed or suboptimal treatment.
(When) Do Democracies Repress Less?

Although there is consensus that full democracies are less repressive than other regime types, the establishment of full democracy is not always followed by reduced state repression. Against that background, this paper examines heterogeneity in the relationship between democracy and government violations of human rights. Drawing on arguments from the civil war literature, we develop a simple model that highlights opposing effects of democracy on state repression. Consequently, the net effect of democracy is shown to be ambiguous. Furthermore, the model reveals that pacifying (adverse) effects of democracy are more likely to dominate in countries with higher (lower) income levels. These implications are tested empirically using different methodological approaches, including timeseries cross-sectional regressions, event studies, and a recent generalization of the synthetic control method. Our analyses confirm that democracy is related to reduced repression in relatively rich countries, whereas we find no or even adverse effects in poor countries.
A review of systems modelling for sustainability

The 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) represent a holistic and ambitious agenda for transforming the world towards societal well-being, economic prosperity, and environmental protection. Achieving the SDGs is, however, challenged by the performance of interconnected sectors and the complexity of their interactions which drive non-linear system responses, tipping points, and spillover effects in progress towards sustainability. Systems modelling, as an integrated way of thinking about and modelling multisectoral dynamics, can help explain how feedback interactions within and among different sectors can lead to broader system transformation and progress towards the SDGs. Here, we review how system dynamics, as one of prominent systems modelling approaches, can inform and contribute to sustainability research and implementation, framed by the SDGs. We systematically analyse 357 system dynamics studies undertaken at the local scale (e.g., communities, cities), published between 2015 (i.e., inception of the SDGs) and 2020. We analyse the studies to illuminate strengths and limitations in four key areas: diversity of scope; interdisciplinarity of the approaches; the role of stakeholder participation; and the analysis of SDG interactions. We assess strengths and limitations of the reviewed literature, and propose related research priorities in four areas: better consideration of societal aspects of sustainable development in modelling efforts; integrating with new interdisciplinary methods; improving genuine stakeholder engagement; a more in-depth analysis of feedback interactions underlaying the SDGs (i.e., synergies and trade-offs). The review provides a comprehensive knowledge base of existing works that can guide future applications and set a new research agenda for filling existing gaps in the application of systems modelling to sustainability.
Low amplitude, low frequency elastic measurements using Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer (DMA) spectroscopy

Abstract The applications of DMA methods for the investigation of the dynamical mechanical properties of materials are reviewed. Experimental details of this method are described including the combination of DMA with X-ray rocking curve measurements to investigate the details of the domain patterns. Emphasis is given to the effect of phase transitions, in particular in ferroelastic and co-elastic systems where the ‘easy’ movement of domain boundaries, twin walls and other interfaces lead to super-elastic softening of the material. Thermodynamic constraints, such as in the adiabatic-isothermal crossover are discussed. Smooth, ballistic propagation of domain walls are contrasted with the jerky behaviour of interfaces when phase transitions of first order are investigated. It is shown that for the ballistic behaviour, momentum driven wall movements are common and that their representation in Cole-Cole plots leads to depressed semi-circles, similar to methods used in dielectric spectroscopy. In jerky elastic responses the energy dissipation follows power law dependences. Domain wall pinning and domain wall freezing is discussed in some detail.
A RELATIONSHIP STUDY OF PRICE PROMOTION, CUSTOMER QUALITY EVALUATION, CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AND REPURCHASE INTENTION: A CASE STUDY OF STARBUCKS IN THAILAND

The purpose of this research is to investigate the relationship among price promotions, beverage and food quality, service quality, customer’s satisfaction and repurchase intention in Starbucks (Thailand). A questionnaire was conducted to collect data from the respondents who visited Starbucks in Thailand. Correlation was applied to analyze the relationships among variables. The results suggested that price promotion in Starbucks has a positive relationship on customer evaluation on food and beverage quality and service quality, and a strongly positive relationship between customer satisfactions and repurchase intention. The findings encourage coffee shop management to utilize strategic price promotions to improve customer evaluation and satisfaction, which further contribute to customer loyalty.
Testing General Relativity vs. Alternative Theories of Gravitation with the SaToR-G Experiment

A new experiment in the field of gravitation, SaToR-G, is presented. The experiment aims to compare the predictions of different theories of gravitation in the limit of weak field and slow motion. The ultimate goal of the experiment is to look for possible "new physics" beyond the current standard model of gravitation based on the predictions of general relativity. A key role in the above perspective is the theoretical and experimental framework within which to confine our work. To this end, we make our best efforts to exploit the framework suggested by Dicke over 50 years ago.
Up-sampling low resolution surveillance feeds using GANs

There has been much work done on video and image super resolution, where previous approaches have handled up-sampling of both images and videos. However, there is less literature on up-sampling images and videos in the surveillance domains, especially up-sampling low resolution security footage. We propose using Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) to upscale low resolution surveillance videos. The outcome will be a model that will take as input a low resolution video (surveillance) and output a video at a higher resolution. This video super resolution output can be used by both manual surveillance operators as well as machine learning algorithms both in batch and real time scenarios to identify and analyze anomalous events in security feeds. A further extension of this work could be used for both scene and subject restoration in the surveillance videos.
The Influence of Psychological Capital and Workplace Well-Being on Work Engagement of Bank Employees

The challenge comes from increasingly fierce business competition and increasingly varied customer demands for products and services. Therefore, apart from capital and technology, banks also need the support of reliable human resources. The purpose of this study was to determine empirically whether there was any influence between psychological capital and workplace well-being on the work engagement of employees at the Bank. This study involved 134 respondents. The results obtained indicate that the empirical model obtained is in accordance with the theoretical model that was built. The variables of psychological capital and workplace wellbeing together influence work attachment to Bank employees. Keywords: Psychological Capital, Workplace Well-Being, Work Engagement.
Physical Facilities as Predictors of Academic Achievement of Learners with Physical Impairments in Kenya

Through legal and policy guidelines, the Kenya government and other stakeholders have made efforts to promote academic achievement of all learners regardless of their diversity of disabilities. However, learners with physical impairments (PI) in public primary special schools in Kisumu County still perform poorly in national examinations. The purpose of this study was therefore to investigate the physical facilities as predictors of academic achievement of learners with physical impairments in public primary special schools for learners with PI in Kisumu County, Kenya. The study objective was to determine the relationship between physical facilities and academic achievement of learners with PI. The study used Maslow’s theory of Motivation. The study used concurrent triangulation design within mixed methods approaches. The target population was; 2 head teachers of public primary special schools for learners with PI, 45 teachers, and 503 learners with PI, a total population of 550 participants. Saturation sampling technique was used for head teachers, while purposive sampling technique was used for teachers and learners with PI. Sample size was 2 head teachers, 16 teachers and 150 learners with PI, a total of 168 respondents. Data was collected using questionnaire, interview schedules, and observation checklist. Content validity was used for validity, while Cronbach’s alpha which recorded a correlation coefficient of . 675 was used to ascertain reliability. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as Pearson’s product moment correlation coefficient and multiple regression analyses, and presented using frequency tables, graphs and pie charts from which conclusions were made. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis. The study results indicated that: there was a statistically significant positive relationship (r= .363) between physical facilities and academic achievement of learners with PI. It can therefore be concluded from the current study that physical facilities are significant predictors of academic achievements of learners with PI in public primary special schools for learners with PI. The study therefore recommended that the Ministry of Education (MoE) should facilitate adequate physical facilities. The study would benefit; parents, children with PI, schools, teachers, MoE, curriculum developers, education planners, policy makers and Kenyan government in improving service provision of physical facilities and academic achievements of learners with PI, and would serve as a basis for further research for scholars in the area of education in general.
A Convergence Study on the Effect of Subjective Systemic Health Status and Health Behavior on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of subjective systemic health status and health behavior on the oral health-related quality of life through a convergence study. The data collected by a survey on adults living in Busan Metropolitan City were analyzed using SPSS 21.0 program. The oral health-related quality of life of the non-smoking group was higher than that of the smoking group, and the oral health-related quality of life was higher in the high group for the subjective systemic health status and health behavior than in the low group. Subjective systemic health status and health behavior both were found to have a positive (+) influence on oral health-related quality of life, and especially the subjective systemic health status had a greater influence. Therefore, as the improvement of oral health-related quality of life is expected through systemic health, it is considered that development of convergence education programs could be an important medium to educate the associated importance of systemic health and oral health.
A Branch-and-Price-and-Cut Algorithm for the Vehicle Routing Problem with Two-Dimensional Loading Constraints

The vehicle routing problem with two-dimensional loading constraints (2L-CVRP) is a practical variant of the classic capacitated vehicle routing problem. A number of algorithms have been developed for the problem, but it is very difficult for the existing exact methods to optimally solve instances featuring with large rectangular items. To address this issue, a branch-and-price-and-cut (BPC) algorithm is proposed in this study. A novel data structure and a new dominance rule are developed to build an exact pricing algorithm that takes the loading constraints into account. Several valid inequalities are used to strengthen the linear relaxation. Extensive computational experiments were conducted on the benchmark instances of the 2L-CVRP, showing that the BPC algorithm outperforms all the existing exact methods for the problem in terms of the solution quality. Fourteen instances are solved to optimality for the first time. In particular, the size of solvable instances with large items is nearly doubled. Moreover, managerial insights about the impact of respecting the last-in-first-out constraint are also obtained.
Fluoride Release and Recharge in Conventional Varnishes, Compared to a Giomer and a Resin Modified Glass Ionomer

Introduction: Fluoride varnishes are used for caries prevention and treatment of dentin hypersensitivity, and its main purpose is to prolong the contact time between fluoride and tooth. The present study aimed to compare the amount of fluoride released and recharge from three conventional varnishes with resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI). Methods: This experimental in vitro study was carried on blocks of human teeth extracted for orthodontic reasons. Three commercially available fluoride varnishes (Fluor protector (FP), Duraphat (DP), Clinpro White Varnish (CWV)) a Giomer (PRG-Barrier Coat), and an RMGI (Clinpro XT) were applied in these blocks, divided into five groups (eight samples each one). The readings were carried out using an ion-selective electrode and a potentiometer. After 30 days of study, the recharge capacity of these materials was evaluated immersing the samples in 20,000 parts per million (ppm) sodium fluoride gel. Results: Significant differences were found when comparing FP with the rest of the materials analyzed in this study since it released the lowest amount of fluoride with 1.01 ppm. The Giomer released 1.90 ppm, whereas CWV and DP released the highest amount of fluoride with 5.41 ppm and 4.76 ppm, respectively. The RMGI was more constant during the first five days and demonstrated a greater recharge capacity. Conclusion: All varnishes demonstrated the greatest fluoride release during the first 24 h, and a marked decrease was observed after this period. The RMGI presented a considerable amount of fluoride and the best capacity for recharge.
SEISMIC BEHAVIOUR OF BASE ISOLATED BUILDINGS IN ITALY

The effects of the recent Central Italy seismic event on two base isolated buildings in Italy are presented. The first one is the Forestry building of the Civil Protection Centre at Foligno, Italy, having regular shape and reinforced concrete structure, which is seismically isolated by means of HDRBs. The second one is one of the pre-fabricated houses placed on a large isolated reinforced concrete slab supported by means of curve surface sliders (CSS), for temporarily hosting the homeless residents in L’Aquila (C.A.S.E. project). In both of them a seismic monitoring system was installed. All the significant events of the seismic sequence in Central Italy that started on August 24 th , 2016, were recorded. In this paper the behavior of both the buildings under the event of October 30 th , 2016 (MW = 6.5), are presented and discussed.
Information Network Large-Scale ICT Innovation , Power , and Organizational Change : The Case of a Regional Health

This article focuses on the multilevel context of power negotiations in understanding the relationship between large-scale information and communication technology (ICT) innovation and organizational change. The authors'analytical approach draws on the concept of networks of power to examine the changing interrelationships between institutional arrangements, people, ICTs, and work practices and how each plays a role in the adjustment , coordination, and integration of diverse interests and goals. The authors use this approach to examine the development and use of a regional health information network and conclude with some suggestions for effectively negotiating the process of change. INTRODUCTION Explaining the relationship between information and communication technologies (ICTs) and organizational change has been a central and enduring quest of information 76 Panos Constantinides is a research associate at the Judge Business School at the University of Cambridge, where he also earned his Ph.D. His research interests are in the area of ICT Innovation and change in health care practices. Michael Barrett is a faculty member in information systems at the Judge Business School, University of Cambridge, where he also earned his Ph.D. His research is in the area of information systems innovation and organization change with a particular interest in health care, professional service firms, and global financial markets. systems (IS) scholars. Kling's (1980) and Markus and Robey's (1988) seminal articles on the subject challenged models of change that tended to place undue weight on the rationality of managers directing the change and on the capability of ICTs to create predictable organizational changes in work routines. Their suggestion to instead develop process-based approaches and seek emergent analyses of ICT-mediated organizational change has been reflected in later IS research (e.g., Orlikowski, 2000; Robey & Boudreau, 1999). Studies employing such an emergent perspective examine the reciprocal effects between ICT development and use and managerial/organizational imperatives: ICTs follow a development trajectory that is the by-product of the negotiations between different organizational members while at the same time shaping those negotiations by enabling the attainment of some goals over others (Heracleous & Barrett, 2001; Sabherwal & Newman, 2003). In this view, ICT innovation and the organizational change it helps to bring about emerge as a consequence of multiple and diverse interests, and it is thus entrenched in negotiations of power. Power is understood to be endemic to organizational practices in both the IS litera-According to these literatures, in following the changes that occur in organizations, we …
Structural chemistry of anionic fluoride and mixed-ligand fluoride complexes of indium(III)

Abstract A total of 88 crystal lattice structures of indium(III) anionic fluoride and mixed-ligand fluoride complexes have been discussed and systematized. Most of these structures have been established by single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques, but some were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction methods. The presented crystallography data were compared with known isotypical compounds. This paper offers a discussion of the geometry of indium and outer sphere cation coordination polyhedra; the association of indium atoms in dimer, oligomer, and polymer formations (chains, layers, frameworks); types of cation-anion interactions; and their contributions in actual three-dimensional crystal structures including types of the crystal lattices formed. We also used structural examples of potassium fluoroindates(III) to describe the basics of the structural depolymerization model for fluoride compounds, which is used to depict the formation and transformation of complex metal fluorides and predict structural types of novel or uncharacterized fluorides in the corresponding compound series. For the readers’ convenience, we have compiled structural information in a single table containing phase compositions and corresponding standard crystallographic data (such as crystal system, space group, unit cell parameters, number of formula units per cell [Z], reliability factors [R], and In-F and In-O bond lengths).