Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Enhancing young people's individual skills and knowledge. The case of vulnerable youth participating in co-creative policymaking in housing in the city of Barakaldo

This research aims to explore in what extent young people can enhance their individual skills, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors by taking part in urban policymaking co-creation processes. The empirical study conducted within the UPLIFT project is based on two main theoretical influences: co-creation and youth participation in policymaking and the capability approach. The author found that the young participants in the UPLIFT co-creation process in Barakaldo who were encountering vulnerabilities or difficulties in housing, experienced positive individual effects from their participation in the process. Framed in terms of the Capability Approach, the process impacts positively on young people's individual abilities (individual factors) that may influence their opportunities (capabilities) and life strategies (functionings) in the housing domain. In the following lines, I also suggest a set of critical aspects that need to be pursued in a co-creative policymaking process to help increase the vulnerable young participants' knowledge and attitudes toward community planning initiatives in the field of urban policymaking.
Chemokines in patients with Alzheimer's disease: A meta-analysis

Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease in elderly people. Many researches have reported that neuroinflammation is related to AD. Chemokines are a class of small cytokines that play important roles in cell migration and cell communication, which involved in neuroinflammation. Up to now there is no meta-analysis to explore the difference of chemokines between AD patients and healthy elderly individuals. Method We searched PubMed, Web of science, Cochrane library, EMBASE and Scopus databases from inception to January 2022. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers, and the Review Manager 5.3 was used for the meta-analysis. Result Thirty-two articles were included and analyzed. The total number of participants in the included study was 3,331. We found that the levels of CCL5 (SMD = 2.56, 95% CI: 1.91–3.21), CCL15 (SMD = 3.30, 95% CI: 1.48–5.13) and IP-10 (SMD = 3.88, 95% CI: 1.84–5.91) in the plasma of AD patients were higher than healthy people. MCP-1 protein (SMD = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.29–1.05) in the AD patients' CSF was higher than healthy controls. Conclusion These results suggested that chemokines may play an important role in AD. These findings could provide evidences for the diagnosis and treatment of AD. Systematic review registration https://www.crd. york.ac. uk/prospero/display_record. php? ID=CRD42021278736, identifier: CRD42021278736.
Combining ability, heterosis and performance of grain yield and content of Fe, Zn and protein in bread wheat under normal and late sowing conditions

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is inherently low in protein content, Zn and Fe. Boost yield gains have unwittingly reduced grain Zn and Fe, which has had negative impacts on human health. The aim of this study was to understand the inheritance of grain yield per plant and grain Fe, Zn, and protein concentrations in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under normal and late sown conditions. Half diallel crosses were performed using 10 parents. The crosses and parents were evaluated in replicated trials for the two conditions, to assess the possibility of exploiting heterosis to improve micronutrient contents. The per se performance, heterosis, combining ability, and genetic components were estimated for different characters in both environments. The results revealed that hybrid GW 451 × GW 173 exhibited better parent heterosis (BPH) and standard heterotic effects (SH) in all environments. In both sowing conditions, the general combining ability (GCA) effects of poor × poor parents also showed high specific combining ability (SCA) effects of hybrids for both the micronutrients and protein contents. However, σ2A/σ2D greater than unity confirmed the preponderance of additive gene action for protein content, and GW 173 was identified as a good general combiner for these characteristics under both environments. SCA had positive significant (P < 0.001) correlations with BPH, SH1, SH2, and the phenotype for yield component traits and grain protein, Fe, and Zn concentrations in both conditions. A supplementary approach for biofortifying wheat grainis required to prevent malnutrition.
Vanguard – a proposed European astrobiology experiment on Mars

We propose a new type of robotic mission for the exploration of Mars. This mission is called Vanguard and represents the fruits of a collaboration that is both international and multi-disciplinary. Vanguard is designed for sub-surface penetration and investigation using remote instruments and unlike previous robotic architectures it offers the opportunity for multiple subsurface site analysis using three moles. The moles increase the probability that a subsurface signature of life can be found and by accomplishing subsurface analysis across a transect, the statistical rigour of Martian scientific exploration would be improved. There is no provision for returning samples to the surface for analysis by a gas-chromatograph/mass-spectrometer (GCMS) – this minimizes the complexity invoked by sophisticated robotic overheads. The primary scientific instruments to be deployed are the Raman spectrometer, infrared spectrometer and laser-induced breakdown spectroscope – the Raman spectrometer in particular is discussed. We concentrate primarily on the scientific rationale for the Vanguard mission proposal. The Vanguard mission proposal represents a logical opportunity for extending European robotic missions to Mars.
Unifactor Latent Trait Models Applied to Multifactor Tests: Results and Implications

In order to extend the use of latent trait models across the full spectrum of mental testing, the applicability of the models to multivariate data must be determined. Since all of the commonly used models assume a unidimensional test, the applicability of the procedures to obviously multidimensional tests, such as achievement tests, is questionable. This paper presents the results of the application of latent trait analyses to a series of tests that vary in factorial complexity. The purpose is to determine what characteristics are estimated by the models for these tests, while at the same time determining the relationship of latent trait parameters to traditional item analysis and factor analysis indices.
Numerical Simulation of an Explosively Deepening Cyclone in the Eastern Pacific

Abstract A series of nine experiments were conducted using a version of the Pennsylvania State University/National Center for Atmospheric Research (PSU/NCAR) mesoscale model. Objectives were: 1) to test the ability of a high resolution limited-area model to simulate an extraordinary cyclogenesis that occurred in the eastern Pacific in November 1982; 2) to examine the effects of various physical processes on the storm development and 3) to determine the reasons for the failure of the operational Limited-area Fine-mesh Model (LFM) to forecast the event. Six of the experiments employed a 40 km grid and three employed an 80 km grid. Initial data for seven of the experiments consist of fields interpolated from the National Meteorological Center (NMC) operational analysis supplemented by subjective soundings created by Reed and Albright. The supplementary data were withheld in two of the experiments. Principal findings are: 1) The control experiment, which utilized the supplementary dataset, a 40 km grid and an.
Outlier detection in functional data by depth measures, with application to identify abnormal NOx levels

This paper analyzes outlier detection for functional data by means of functional depths, which measures the centrality of a given curve within a group of trajectories providing center‐outward orderings of the set of curves. We give some insights of the usefulness of looking for outliers in functional datasets and propose a method based in depths for the functional outlier detection. The performance of the proposed procedure is analyzed by several Monte Carlo experiments. Finally, we illustrate the procedure by finding outliers in a dataset of NOx (nitrogen oxides) emissions taken from a control station near an industrial area. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physiotherapists’ experiences of internet-based neck-specific exercises for patients with chronic whiplash-associated disorders

Objective Neck-specific exercises for individuals with chronic whiplash-associated disorders (WAD) have shown promising results, but there is also a need for more efficient and flexible ways of rehabilitation, such as use of digital health tools. Understanding physiotherapists’ experiences of an internet-based tool may help to improve digital tools within physiotherapy. The purpose of this study was to describe how physiotherapists’ experience an internet-based neck-specific exercise program for patients with chronic WAD. Methods This study has a qualitative design. Focus group discussions were held with physiotherapists who have been treating patients with chronic WAD, using an internet-based neck-specific exercises program in a randomized controlled multi-center trial in south and central Sweden. Three focus groups were held with three participants in each group. Phenomenography was applied as a research approach for data analysis. Results One main category was identified as “internet-based program as a complement to regular rehabilitation,” with five descriptive sub-categories: (a) support in patient work; (b) usefulness based on a patient's prerequisites and preferences; (c) physiotherapist and patient interaction; (d) increasing efficiency in rehabilitation; and (e) enabling patient participation, autonomy and self-management. Conclusions From a physiotherapy perspective, an internet-based program could work as a method of complementary support to the standard rehabilitation treatment for patients with chronic WAD, as long as it is interactive and adjustable to the individual. The internet-based program could lead to increased autonomy and self-efficacy, and save resources and time for physiotherapists and patients. Further, more research is needed to strengthen these digital tools within the healthcare system.
Reproducibility of infant fNIRS studies: a meta-analytic approach

Abstract. Significance Concerns about the reproducibility of experimental findings have recently emerged in many disciplines, from psychology to medicine and neuroscience. As NIRS is a relatively recent brain imaging technique, the question of reproducibility has not yet been systematically addressed. Aim The current study seeks to test the replicability of effects observed in NIRS experiments assessing young infants’ rule-learning ability. Approach We conducted meta-analyses and mixed-effects modeling-based inferential statistics to determine whether effect sizes were replicable and comparable in a sample of 23 NIRS studies investigating infants’ abilities to process repetition- and diversity-based regularities in linguistic and nonlinguistic auditory and visual sequences. Additionally, we tested whether effect sizes were modulated by different factors such as the age of participants or the laboratory. We obtained NIRS data from 12 published and 11 unpublished studies. The 23 studies involved a total of 487 infants, aged between 0 and 9 months, tested in four different countries (Canada, France, Italy, and USA). Results Our most important finding is that study and laboratory were never significant moderators of variation in effect sizes, indicating that results replicated reliably across the different studies and labs included in the sample. We observed small-to-moderate effect sizes, similar to effect sizes found with other neuroimaging and behavioral techniques in the developmental literature. In line with existing findings, effect sizes were modulated by the participants’ age and differed across the different regularities tested, with repetition-based regularities giving rise to the strongest effects; in particular, the overall magnitude of this effect in the left temporal region was 0.27 when analyzing the entire dataset. Conclusions Meta-analysis is a useful tool for assessing replicability and cross-study variability. Here, we have shown that infant NIRS studies in the language domain replicate robustly across various NIRS machines, testing sites, and developmental populations.
Wild macaques challenge the origin of intentional tool production

Intentionally produced sharp-edged stone flakes and flaked pieces are our primary evidence for the emergence of technology in our lineage. This evidence is used to decipher the earliest hominin behavior, cognition, and subsistence strategies. Here, we report on the largest lithic assemblage associated with a primate foraging behavior undertaken by long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis). This behavior results in a landscape-wide record of flaked stone material, almost indistinguishable from early hominin flaked pieces and flakes. It is now clear that the production of unintentional conchoidal sharp-edged flakes can result from tool-assisted foraging in nonhominin primates. Comparisons with Plio-Pleistocene lithic assemblages, dating from 3.3 to 1.56 million years ago, show that flakes produced by macaques fall within the technological range of artifacts made by early hominins. In the absence of behavioral observations, the assemblage produced by monkeys would likely be identified as anthropogenic in origin and interpreted as evidence of intentional tool production.
Self-oriented and Socially Prescribed Perfectionism: The Psychometric Properties of the Persian Version of the Eating Disorder Inventory-Perfectionism Scale

Background: Perfectionism is a key construct for understanding psychopathology. In societies with varying cultures, studying the psychometric properties of tools can help with their external validity. This research aimed at standardization and validation of the Eating Disorder Inventory-Perfectionism (EDI-P) scale in Iran. Methods: The Persian version of EDI-P was formed through forward translation, reconciliation, and back translation. A total of 302 students were selected using convenience sampling method and’ they completed a set of questionnaires, including the EDI-P, Weight Efficacy Lifestyle Questionnaire-Short Form (WEL-SF), Eating Attitude Test-16 (EAT-16), Self-esteem scale (SES), Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale-16 (DERS-16), and Self-compassion scale (SCS) Short Form. The construct validity of the EDI-P was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis and divergent and convergent validity. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability (2 weeks’ interval) were applied to evaluate reliability. LISREL (version 8.8) and SSPS (version 22) software were used for data analysis purpose. Results: EDI-P scales and subscales were found to be a valid and reliable measure, with good internal consistency and good test-retest reliability in the nonclinical sample. Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the whole scale, socially prescribed, and self-oriented were found to be 0.74, 0.68, and 0.67, respectively. Test-retest reliability for the whole scale, socially prescribed, and self-oriented were found to be 0.88, 0.80, and 0.87, respectively. Convergent validity and divergent validity were good (Normed Fit Index [NFI] = 0.94, Incremental Fit Index = 0.95, root mean square error of approximation = 0.08, goodness of fit index = 0.97, Non-normed Fit Index [NNFI] = 0.91, and comparative fit index = 0.95). The results of this study provide support for the two-factor model of EDI-P. Conclusion: The EDI-P showed good validity and reliability and could be useful in assessing perfectionism in Iranian population. The EDI-P shows notable promise as a measure for use in eating research and clinical settings.
Teleconsultation management in healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic: The impact of Perceived Justice on satisfaction and Word-Of-Mouth

Following the restrictions on movement imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the greater demands placed on physicians and many healthcare infrastructures, a large number of health teleconsultation platforms have emerged around the world. The aim of this paper is to obtain a better understanding of the acceptance of teleconsultation platforms by patients. To this end, a survey of 1273 patients was carried out using a teleconsultation platform during the pandemic period in France (from 9 July to 29 October 2020). The questionnaire mobilized existing scales to measure Satisfaction, Perceived Justice and, finally, the intention to disseminate by Word-Of-Mouth (WOM). Data were analysed using a Partial Least Squares approach. The study confirms the impact of Distributive, Informational and Procedural Justice on Satisfaction and the impact of Distributive and Informational Justice on WOM. The findings emphasize the influence of Satisfaction on WOM. The results detect a mediating effect of Satisfaction on WOM and moderating effects of gender, age and long-standing use. This research contributes to both theoretical and practical COVID-19 research and may be used by healthcare professionals to develop teleconsultation services, one of the means of supporting interaction and satisfying patients’ treatment requirements during the pandemic.
Photodynamic Effects with 5-Aminolevulinic Acid on Cytokines and Exosomes in Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells from Patients with Crohn’s Disease

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) which is the precursor of the photosensitizer protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) is an available treatment for several diseases. ALA-PDT induces the apoptosis and necrosis of target lesions. We have recently reported the effects of ALA-PDT on cytokines and exosomes of human healthy peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). This study has investigated the ALA-PDT-mediated effects on PBMC subsets from patients with active Crohn’s disease (CD). No effects on lymphocyte survival after ALA-PDT were observed, although the survival of CD3−/CD19+ B-cells seemed slightly reduced in some samples. Interestingly, ALA-PDT clearly killed monocytes. The subcellular levels of cytokines and exosomes associated with inflammation were widely downregulated, which is consistent with our previous findings in PBMCs from healthy human subjects. These results suggest that ALA-PDT may be a potential treatment candidate for CD and other immune-mediated diseases.
Laparoscopic adrenalectomy for large adrenal tumor guided by a 3D anatomic model. New frontiers in abdominal surgery

Abstract If until few years ago the surgeon could study a complex surgery only on the basis of two-dimensional images, today can use 3D physical models on a scale of 1 to 1 of an organ. We report the case of a 53 years old woman with Cushing’s syndrome and a giant right adrenal tumor. To better define the relationship between the neoplasm and inferior vena cava, the vascularization of the adrenal gland, any anatomical anomalies and the specific location of the middle adrenal vein, a 3D printed model was created in 1: 1 size based on the preoperative CT. A laparoscopic right adrenalectomy was performed. No intraoperative and postoperative complications were observed with resolution of the adrenal disorder. This case highlights the feasibility and clinical effectiveness of 3D anatomical models for correct preoperative planning, the surgeon’s intraoperative guidance to reduce possible errors and therefore improve the patient’s postoperative outcome.
Dopamine error signal to actively cope with lack of expected reward

To obtain more of a particular uncertain reward, animals must learn to actively overcome the lack of reward and adjust behavior to obtain it again. The neural mechanisms underlying such coping with reward omission remain unclear. Here, we developed a task in rats to monitor active behavioral switch toward the next reward after no reward. We found that some dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area exhibited increased responses to unexpected reward omission and decreased responses to unexpected reward, following the opposite responses of the well-known dopamine neurons that signal reward prediction error (RPE). The dopamine increase reflected in the nucleus accumbens correlated with behavioral adjustment to actively overcome unexpected no reward. We propose that these responses signal error to actively cope with lack of expected reward. The dopamine error signal thus cooperates with the RPE signal, enabling adaptive and robust pursuit of uncertain reward to ultimately obtain more reward.
The Association between Vitamin D Status and Muscle Strength Among Adolescents

Background: Although previous studies have described a positive correlation between physical activity and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels (25(OH)D), the relationship between participation in school sports and 25(OH)D levels among children has not been well characterized. Methods: The present study analyzed data from participants aged 5 to 15 years in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey cycle 2013-2014. General linear models adjusted for potential confounders were assembled to examine 25(OH)D levels according to participation in school sports. Results: Of 1,670 children in the study sample, 17.9% were defined as having 25(OH)D inadequacy (< 50 nmol/L). Overall, 38% of children reported participation in school sports. In general, 25(OH)D levels were increased among children examined between May 1st and Oct 31st non-Hispanic whites, normal weight, higher income, and daily vitamin D intake ≥ 400 IU/d. After adjusting for potential confounders, 25(OH)D levels were 3.7 nmol/L higher among children who played in any school sports than those who did not. In general, higher 25(OH)D levels were seen among children examined during summer and fall seasons than those during winter and spring seasons, regardless the type of sport activities. Moreover, children who played mixed sports during summer and fall seasons had significantly higher 25(OH)D levels than their physically inactive counterparts. Conclusions: 25(OH)D concentrations were significantly higher in children playing school sports than those who did not. Thus, children's participation in school sports, particularly during summer and fall seasons should be considered as an effective public health intervention to reach optimal 25(OH)D levels.