Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Functional and histological improvement after everolimus rescue of chronic allograft dysfunction in renal transplant recipients

Background We tested the strategy of mTOR inhibitors with calcineurin inhibitor minimization in renal transplant recipients with known chronic allograft dysfunction. Methods In this open-label, single-arm study, renal transplant patients were recruited after biopsy-confirmed chronic allograft dysfunction in the absence of acute rejection episode within 2 months, with proteinuria <0.8 g/day, and serum creatinine <220 μmol/L or estimated glomerular filtration rate >40 mL/min/1.73 m2. They were converted to everolimus (aiming for trough everolimus level 3–8 ng/mL) with cyclosporine minimization, to assess the effect on renal function, rate of glomerular filtration rate decline, and longitudinal transplant biopsy at 12 months. Results Seventeen Chinese patients (median transplant duration, 4.2 years) were recruited; no patients discontinued study medication. The mean slope of the glomerular filtration rate over time was −4.31±6.65 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year in the year before everolimus, as compared with 1.29±5.84 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year in the 12 months of everolimus therapy, a difference of 5.61 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.40–10.8) favoring everolimus therapy (P=0.036). Serial renal biopsy histology showed significant decrease of tubular atrophy (15.7%±11.3% versus 7.1%±7.3%, P=0.005) and interstitial fibrosis (14.8%±11.5% versus 7.2%±8.2%, P=0.013). Intrarenal expression of TGF-β1 mRNA showed a nonsignificant decrease after everolimus treatment. Conclusion In renal transplant recipients with biopsy-confirmed chronic allograft dysfunction, we found a significant beneficial effect of everolimus rescue therapy and calcineurin inhibitor minimization strategy on the improvement of glomerular filtration rate decline rate. In secondary analysis, everolimus was shown to slow down the disease progression by reducing the tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis scoring.
Neural basis of emotion recognition deficits in first-episode major depression

Background Depressed individuals demonstrate a poorer ability to recognize the emotions of others, which could contribute to difficulties in interpersonal behaviour. This emotion recognition deficit appears related to the depressive state and is particularly pronounced when emotions are labelled semantically. Here, we investigated its neural basis by comparing emotion recognition processing between depressed, recovered and healthy individuals. Method Medication-naive patients with a first major depressive episode, medication-free patients who had recovered from a first episode, and a group of matched healthy individuals participated. They were requested to identify the emotion of angry and fearful face stimuli, either by matching them to other emotional faces on a perceptual basis or by matching them to a semantic label, while their brain activity was measured with functional magnetic resonance imaging. Results The depressed individuals performed worse than recovered and healthy individuals on the emotion-labelling but not the emotion-matching task. The labelling deficit was related to increased recruitment of the right amygdala, left inferior frontal gyrus and anterior cingulate cortex. Conclusions Deficits in semantic labelling of negative emotions are related to increased activation in specific brain regions and these abnormalities are mood state-dependent. These results indicate that accessing semantic knowledge about negative information triggers increased amygdala and left inferior frontal gyrus processing, which subsequently impairs task-relevant behaviour. We propose that this may reflect the activation of negative schemas.
Beyond human intentions and emotions

Although significant advances have been made in our understanding of the neural basis of action observation and intention understanding in the last few decades by studies demonstrating the involvement of a specific brain network (action observation network; AON), these have been largely based on experimental studies in which people have been considered as strictly isolated entities. However, we, as social species, spend much more of our time performing actions interacting with others. Research shows that a person's position along the continuum of perceived social isolation/bonding to others is associated with a variety of physical and mental health effects. Thus, there is a crucial need to better understand the neural basis of intention understanding performed in interpersonal and emotional contexts. To address this issue, we performed a meta-analysis using of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies over the past decade that examined brain and cortical network processing associated with understanding the intention of others actions vs. those associated with passionate love for others. Both overlapping and distinct cortical and subcortical regions were identified for intention and love, respectively. These findings provide scientists and clinicians with a set of brain regions that can be targeted for future neuroscientific studies on intention understanding, and help develop neurocognitive models of pair-bonding.
Logic for problem solving

This book investigates the application of logic to problem-solving and computer programming. It assumes no previous knowledge of these fields, and may be Karl duncker in addition to make difficult fill one of productive. The unifying epistemological virtues of program variables tuples in different terminologies he wants. Functional fixedness which appropriate solutions are most common barrier. Social psychologists over a goal is represented can take. There is often largely unintuitive and, all be overcome standardized procedures like copies? Functional fixedness it can be made possible for certain fields looks. In the solution paths or pencil. After toiling over the ultimate mentions that people cling rigidly to strain on. Luckily the book for knowledge of atomic sentences or fundamental skills. Functional fixedness is a problem solving techniques such.
A reinterpretation of the policy oscillation phenomenon in approximate policy iteration

A majority of approximate dynamic programming approaches to the reinforcement learning problem can be categorized into greedy value function methods and value-based policy gradient methods. The former approach, although fast, is well known to be susceptible to the policy oscillation phenomenon. We take a fresh view to this phenomenon by casting a considerable subset of the former approach as a limiting special case of the latter. We explain the phenomenon in terms of this view and illustrate the underlying mechanism with artificial examples. We also use it to derive the constrained natural actor-critic algorithm that can interpolate between the aforementioned approaches. In addition, it has been suggested in the literature that the oscillation phenomenon might be subtly connected to the grossly suboptimal performance in the Tetris benchmark problem of all attempted approximate dynamic programming methods. We report empirical evidence against such a connection and in favor of an alternative explanation. Finally, we report scores in the Tetris problem that improve on existing dynamic programming based results.
Selective inhibition of NF‐κB suppresses bone invasion by oral squamous cell carcinoma in vivo

Nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) is constitutively activated in many cancers, including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), and is involved in the invasive characteristics of OSCC, such as growth, antiapoptotic activity and protease production. However, the cellular mechanism underlying NF‐κB's promotion of bone invasion by OSCC is unclear. Therefore, we investigated the role of NF‐κB in bone invasion by OSCC in vivo. Immunohistochemical staining of OSCC invading bone in 10 patients indicated that the expression and nuclear translocation of p65, a main subunit of NF‐κB, was increased in OSCC compared with normal squamous epithelial cells. An active form of p65 phosphorylated at serine 536 was present mainly in the nucleus in not only differentiated tumor cells but also tumor‐associated stromal cells and bone‐resorbing osteoclasts. We next injected mouse OSCC SCCVII cells into the masseter region of C3H/HeN mice. Mice were treated for 3 weeks with a selective NF‐κB inhibitor, NBD peptide, which disrupts the association of NF‐κB essential modulator (NEMO) with IκB kinases. NBD peptide treatment inhibited TNFα‐induced and constitutive NF‐κB activation in SCCVII cells in vitro and in vivo, respectively. Treatment with NBD peptide decreased zygoma and mandible destruction by SCCVII cells, reduced number of osteoclasts by inhibiting RANKL expression in osteoblastic cells and SCCVII cells, increased apoptosis and suppressed the proliferation of SCCVII cells. Taken together, our data clearly indicate that inhibition of NF‐κB is useful for inhibiting bone invasion by OSCC.
Direct haptic rendering of sculptured models

A new tracing algorithm is described that supports haptic rendering of NURBS surfaces without the use of any intermediate representation. By using this tracing algorithm in conjunction with algorithms for surface proximity testing and surface transitions, a complete haptic rendering system for sculptured models has been developed. The system links an advanced CAD modeling system with a Sarcos force-reflecting exo-skeleton arm. A method for measuring the quality of the tracking component of the haptic rendering separately from the haptic device and force computation is also described. CR Descriptors: H.1. 2 [Models and Principles] User/Machine Systems; C.3 [Special-Purpose and Application-Based Systems] Real-Time Systems; I.3. 7 [Computer Graphics] Three-Dimensional Graphics and Realism; I.6. 4 [Simulation and Modeling] Types of Simulation - Distributed; F.2. 2 [Analysis of Algorithms and Problem Complexity] Nonnumerical Algorithms and Problems; J.6 [Computer-Aided Engineering].
A Differential Encoding Approach to Random Linear Network Coding

A differential precoding scheme for random linear network coding is proposed and assessed. We derive the sets of parameters for which the use of higher rates and smaller packet lengths is possible when compared to the standard approach using a lifting construction. It is demonstrated how rank-metric codes may be used for this differential coding approach in order to improve performance and to deal with packet errors.
AmI in good care? Developing design principles for ambient intelligent domotics for elderly

The combination of ambient intelligence (AmI) and domotics has the potential to respond to elderly people's desire to live independent from extensive forms of care. Their slow adoption of technological aids shows reluctance, though. This article investigates their motivations to adopt ambient intelligent domotics, and proposes design principles specifically based on their preferences and experiences. Respondents appeared to be more acceptive of tangible problems they expected with AmI domotics than intangible ones. In addition, their opinions seemed to be profoundly influenced by the way they perceived their psychological quality of life, while their physical conditions did not seem to have noticeable impacts.
Clinical Significance of Isolated Anti-HBc Positivity in Cases of Chronic Liver Disease in New Delhi, India

Background: The presence of anti-HBc IgG in the absence of HBsAg is usually indicative of a past self-limiting HBV infection. But it is frequently associated with co-infection with HCV which can worsen the existing status of chronic liver disease (CLD). Objectives: The present study was planned to evaluate the significance of isolated HBc IgG positivity in patients of CLD and look for the presence of HCV co-infection in such patients. Methods: Clinical profiles and biochemical tests were done for all the 77 CLD cases included in the study. Blood samples were taken from these patients and tested by the commercially available EIA for the presence of HBsAg, anti-HBc IgG, anti-HBs and anti-HCV. HBV DNA was detected by amplifying the surface region in all the cases. Results: Isolated anti-HBc IgG positivity defined as the presence of anti-HBc IgG in absence of any other serological markers of HBV infection was detected in 28 patients. Out of 64 patients positive for anti-HBc IgG 36 had the markers of HBV, either HBsAg, HBV DNA or anti-HBs alone or in combination. There was a significant association between isolated anti-HBc IgG positivity and HCV co-infection. Conclusion: Anti-HBc IgG should be tested in all patients with CLD as it is frequently the only marker of HBV infection in such patients and they should be monitored closely as such patients can develop CLD. Presence of co-infection with HCV should be actively searched for in such patients.
Understanding Execution Traces Using Massive Sequence and Circular Bundle Views

The use of dynamic information to aid in software understanding is a common practice nowadays. One of the many approaches concerns the comprehension of execution traces. A major issue in this context is scalability: due to the vast amounts of information, it is a very difficult task to successfully find your way through such traces without getting lost. In this paper, we propose the use of a novel trace visualization method based on a massive sequence and circular bundle view, constructed with scalability in mind. By means of three usage scenarios that were conducted on three different software systems, we show how our approach, implemented in a tool called EXTRAVIS, is applicable to the areas of trace exploration, feature location, and feature comprehension.
Association Between Conformity With Performance Measures and 1-Year Postdischarge Survival in Patients With Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

Recognition of the treatment gap in patients with heart failure (HF) led to the development of a set of process-of-care measures to improve the quality of care. To assess the association of established and emerging process-of-care measures with 1-year postdischarge survival, 496 patients with acute decompensated HF were studied. After adjustment for established prognostic factors, the relative risk (RR) for mortality in patients eligible for treatment was as follows: 0.49 (P < .001) for discharge prescription of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RAS-Is), 0.59 (P = .015) for β-blockers, 0.44 (P < .001) for combination therapy (ie, a β-blocker and a RAS-I), 0.87 (P nonsignificant) for aldosterone antagonists, and 0.49 (P nonsignificant) for planned cardioverter-defibrillator implantation. After adjustment for propensity scores, the RR was 0.49 (P < .001) for RAS-Is, 0.67 (P = .04) for β-blockers, and 0.57 (P < .001) for combination therapy. The data suggest that performance measures for RAS-Is, β-blockers, and combination therapy are strongly associated with improved 1-year survival.
On the numerical evaluation of elastostatic fields in locallyisotropic two-dimensional compositesLeslie

We present a fast algorithm for the calculation of elastostatic elds in locally isotropic composites. The method uses an integral equation approach due to Sherman, combined with the fast multipole method and an adaptive quadrature technique. Accurate solutions can be obtained with inclusions of arbitrary shape at a cost roughly proportional to the number of points needed to resolve the interface. Large-scale problems, with hundreds of thousands of interface points can be solved using modest computational resources.
Efficient feature-based motion estimation in neurosurgery using non-maximum suppression

Abstract In this contribution we propose a feature-based method for motion estimation and correction in intraoperative thermal imaging during brain surgery. The motion is estimated from co-registered white-light images in order to perform a robust motion correction on the thermographic data. To ensure real-time performance of an intraoperative application, we optimise the processing time which essentially depends on the number of key points found by our algorithm. For this purpose we evaluate the effect of applying an non-maximum suppression (NMS) to improve the feature detection efficiency. Furthermore we propose an adaptive method to determine the size of the suppression area, resulting in a trade-off between accuracy and processing time.
Falsification Testing of Instrumental Variables Methods for Comparative Effectiveness Research.

OBJECTIVES To demonstrate how falsification tests can be used to evaluate instrumental variables methods applicable to a wide variety of comparative effectiveness research questions. STUDY DESIGN Brief conceptual review of instrumental variables and falsification testing principles and techniques accompanied by an empirical application. Sample STATA code related to the empirical application is provided in the Appendix. EMPIRICAL APPLICATION Comparative long-term risks of sulfonylureas and thiazolidinediones for management of type 2 diabetes. Outcomes include mortality and hospitalization for an ambulatory care-sensitive condition. Prescribing pattern variations are used as instrumental variables. CONCLUSIONS Falsification testing is an easily computed and powerful way to evaluate the validity of the key assumption underlying instrumental variables analysis. If falsification tests are used, instrumental variables techniques can help answer a multitude of important clinical questions.
Hallucinogen use and intimate partner violence: Prospective evidence consistent with protective effects among men with histories of problematic substance use

Evidence suggests that hallucinogens may have therapeutic potential for addressing a variety of problem behaviors related to the externalizing spectrum of psychopathology, such as substance misuse and criminality. Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a prevalent form of criminal violence that is related to externalizing pathology. However, the association between hallucinogen use and IPV has not been comprehensively examined. In this prospective study, we examined the association between IPV and naturalistic hallucinogen use among 302 inmates at a US county jail. Cox regression analyses indicated that hallucinogen use predicted reduced arrest for IPV independently (β=−0.54, SE=0.20, χ2=7.19, exp(B)=0.58, p<0.01) and after accounting for covariates (β=−0.48, SE=0.23, χ2=4.44, exp(B)=0.62, p<0.05). These results add to a growing literature suggesting distinct therapeutic potential for hallucinogens to assist in the attenuation of problematic behavior.
PCR-based tests for the early diagnosis of sepsis. Where do we stand?

Purpose of review Bloodstream infections are a major cause of hospital and ICU admission with high morbidity and mortality; however, early and targeted antimicrobial therapy reduces mortality in high-risk patients. This article focuses on the diagnosis of bloodstream infections by PCR-based approaches at an early stage to enable prompt treatment and prevent organ dysfunction. Recent findings PCR systems offering highly multiplexed targeting of bacterial and/or fungal pathogens (in whole blood) offer the best opportunity for clinical impact, as informed decisions can be made within 4–8 h of the blood draw. Although more rapid, these systems are typically associated with lower sensitivity and specificity than postculture detection methods which rely on microbial growth. Additionally, unlike postculture methods, detection directly from blood is not prone to misleading results because of concurrent (or previous) therapy, which limit clinical relevance. Summary Rapid and accurate identification of the cause of sepsis is essential in improving patient outcomes. Early identification of these pathogens by nucleic acid detection assays directly from blood samples remains key to achieving this, particularly if taken at the time of presentation. Selection of the most suitable PCR system is typically influenced by local epidemiology and by the resources of the testing laboratory.
Efficacy and Safety of an In-the-Mouth Bone Conduction Device for Single-Sided Deafness

Objective: To determine the efficacy, benefit, and safety of a new in-the-mouth bone conduction device (SoundBite Hearing System) for single-sided deafness (SSD). Study Design: A multicenter, controlled, nonrandomized prospective unblinded study of SSD patients wearing the device. Settings: Ambulatory care centers typical of those where SSD patients are diagnosed and treated. Patients: Adults (ages >18 and <80 yr) with acquired, permanent SSD (N = 28) and no current use of any SSD device. Intervention: Continual daily wear of the new device over a 30-day trial period. Main Outcome Measures: The Hearing in Noise Test (HINT), the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB), comprehensive pretrial and posttrial medical, audiologic, and dental examinations and an SSD questionnaire. Results: The Hearing in Noise Test scores improved an average of -2.5 dB after 30 days, compared with wearing no device (p < 0.001). The Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit scores improved (p < 0.05) for all subjects for the Global and Background Noise subscales and for all but 1 subject for the Reverberation and Ease of Communication subscales. There were no medical, audiologic, or dental complications. Conclusion: The SoundBite system is safe and effective and provides substantial benefit for SSD patients with continual daily use over a 30-day period.
Firm-Worker Matching in Industrial Clusters

In this paper we use a novel approach and a large Portuguese employer-employee panel data set to study the hypothesis that industrial agglomeration improves the quality of the firm-worker matching process. Our method makes use of recent developments in the estimation and analysis of models with high-dimensional fixed effects. Using wage regressions with controls for multiple sources of observed and unobserved heterogeneity we find little evidence that the quality of matching increases with firm’s clustering within the same industry. This result supports Freedman’s (2008) analysis using U.S. data.
Peripheral nerve repair: a hot spot analysis on treatment methods from 2010 to 2014

Therapeutic strategies for neurological deficits and for promoting nerve regeneration after peripheral nerve injuries have received much focus in clinical research. Advances in basic research in recent years have increased our understanding of the anatomy of peripheral nerves and the importance of the microenvironment. Various new intervention methods have been developed, but with varying effectiveness. In the present study, we selected 911 papers on different repair methods for peripheral nerve injury from the Web of Science and indexed in the Science Citation Index from 2010 to 2014. We quantitatively examine new repair methods and strategies using bibliometrics, and we discuss the present state of knowledge and the problems and prospects of various repair methods, including nerve transfer, neural transplantation, tissue engineering and genetic engineering. Our findings should help in the study and development of repair methods for peripheral nerve injury.