Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Social explanation and computational simulation

I explore a type of computational social simulation known as artificial societies. Artificial society simulations are dynamic models of real-world social phenomena. I explore the role that these simulations play in social explanation, by situating these simulations within contemporary philosophical work on explanation and on models. Many contemporary philosophers have argued that models provide causal explanations in science, and that models are necessary mediators between theory and data. I argue that artificial society simulations provide causal mechanistic explanations. I conclude that in their current form, these simulations are based on methodologically individualist assumptions that could limit their potential scope of social explanation.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Interleukin-6, Interleukin-8, and Interleukin-10 for Predicting Bacteremia in Children with Febrile Neutropenia

Despite improvements in diagnosis and treatment, infections are still a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children with febrile neutropenia. In the majority of febrile episodes, the source of infection cannot be defined. In this study, we aimed to identify the earlier predictors of bacteremia/fungemia and a useful cytokine to identify the source of infection and to discriminate the patients with culture-confirmed bacterial/fungal infection. The most sensitive cytokine was interleukin (IL)-10 and the most specific was IL-8 in predicting culture-confirmed cases. IL-8 had greater sensitivity and specificity in determination of gram-negative bacterial infections with a higher negative predictive value; therefore, IL-8 can be used particularly to rule out gram-negative bacterial infections. IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10 circulating levels were shown to be higher in cases of infection. Further studies are needed to recommend a routine practice for predicting culture-confirmed bacterial infections.
Toward a method of object-oriented concurrent programming

While there have been many attempts to provide object-oriented languages with a model of concurrency, few have dealt with reusability and methodology. Here we propose a concurrent model that takes into account such important concerns. Concept unifications are a necessity, and underlie the need to make object-oriented programming adaptable to concurrency. The model characteristics, especially reusability, permit definition of a concurrent object-oriented design method. The model, which makes extensive use of object-oriented techniques such as inheritance and polymorphism, is presented followed by development of the concurrent programming method
NLP-based information extraction for managing the molecular biology literature

We present research aimed at devising a tool for using natural language processing to identify and extract biomedical information from text for the purpose of assisting researchers in molecular biology manage large amounts of information. A pilot project based on the molecular genetics of diabetes demonstrates our ability to explore the interaction of genomic phenomena and clinical findings. We suggest the cooperation of this extracted information with systems for clustering text and constructing labeled networks of data.
No Effect of Training State on Ambulatory Measures of Cardiac Autonomic Control

We examined the effect of training state on cardiac autonomic control in a naturalistic setting. Twenty-four vigorous exercisers were compared to age- and sex-matched sedentary controls. The regular exercisers were subjected to a 6-week training program after which they were randomized to 2 weeks of continued training or 2 weeks of detraining. Cardiac autonomic control was measured over a 24-h period by ambulatory recording, using the preejection period (PEP) and respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA). Nonexercising controls had a significantly higher ambulatory heart rate (HR) compared to the regular exercisers but comparable 24-h levels of PEP and RSA. In regular exercisers, 2 weeks of detraining did not significantly change the 24-h levels of HR, PEP, or RSA. We conclude that the bradycardia in healthy regular exercisers is the result of a lower intrinsic heart rate rather than a shift in cardiac autonomic balance from sympathetic to vagal control.
Anticoagulation with hirudin for continuous veno‐venous hemodialysis in liver transplantation

Postoperative encephalopathy after orthotopic liver transplantation can be difficult to diagnose. We report a case of heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia in a liver transplant patient who had seizures. Due to poor liver function the patient developed hepatorenal syndrome requiring continuous veno‐venous hemodialysis (CVVHD). Initially we used heparin as the anticoagulant. After the diagnosis of heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) was made, we switched to r‐hirudin. No serious side effects, e.g. bleeding or immune sensitization, were seen.
An Approach of Inconsistency Verification of Use Case in XML and the Model of Verification Tool

In order to solve the problems of verifying the inconsistency ofthe requirement specification in the natural language, andautomatically transforming the requirement specification innatural language description to formal models, this paper proposesa modeling method of use case specification in XML and a method ofverifying inconsistency in the specification. Furthermore, wedesign a corresponding model of auxiliary tool in our framework.The requirement analysts can use the tool to transform requirementdocument in the natural language into the formal specificationautomatically. The formal specification can be used for furtherautomatic requirement verification.
Joint channel network decoding for the two-source two-relay network

In this paper, we study the performance of network-coded cooperative wireless networks with channel coding over each wireless links. As a case study, the two-source two-relay network is considered and the performance vs. energy-efficiency trade-off of various network code designs (offering both equal and unequal error protection capabilities) over fast- and slowly-varying fading channels is studied. Furthermore, the performance of Maximum-Likelihood (ML-) optimal and low-complexity (Cooperative Maximal Ratio Combining, C-MRC) decoders at the destination are compared. Our analysis suggests that the performance vs. energy-efficiency trade-off of this network topology strongly depends on the inherent diversity and coding gains of both channel and network codes.
Comparison of four different collateral scores in acute ischemic stroke by CT angiography

Purpose Multiple scores have been described for the assessment of collateralization in acute ischemic stroke. Currently, there is no gold standard for collateral assessment by CT angiography (CTA). This study compared four frequently used collateral scores with regard to their correlation with early infarct core and mismatch ratio. Methods 30 consecutive patients with acute occlusion of the M1 segment or terminal carotid artery were reviewed retrospectively. Collaterals were assessed using dynamic and also single-phase CTA according to grading systems by the American Society of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology/Society of Interventional Radiology (ASITN/SIR), Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) (on collaterals), Christoforidis et al and Miteff et al. The Christoforidis and ASITN/SIR scores, which were initially designed for conventional angiography, were adapted to be applicable to CTA. The scores were compared with respect to early infarct core and mismatch ratio in perfusion CT estimated by RAPID software using Spearman correlation. Results ASITN/SIR and ASPECTS collateral scores showed good correlation with early infarct core (rho=−0.696, p<0.001 and rho=−0.677, p<0.001) and mismatch ratio (rho=0.609, p<0.001 and rho=0.581, p<0.001). In contrast, the Christoforidis and Miteff scores correlated less well with infarct core (rho=0.245, p=0.191 and rho=−0.272, p=0.145, respectively) and mismatch ratio (rho=−0.329, p=0.075 and rho=0.279, p=0.135, respectively). ASPECTS and ASITN/SIR showed excellent cross-correlation (rho=0.901, p<0.001). Conclusions Compared with the Christoforidis and Miteff scores, the modified ASITN/SIR and ASPECTS collateral scores showed consistently higher correlation with the extent of early infarct core and mismatch volume. This is probably because these scores evaluate the extent and delay of vascular enhancement in the affected territory rather than the backflow of contrast medium to the occlusion.
Heterogeneity at the Bottom

ABSTRACT Lifetime limits on public assistance were introduced by the United States federal government in 1996 as part of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program. Many former recipients are no longer eligible for benefits having reached their lifetime limit. Local and national studies of post-welfare reform TANF leavers describe their circumstances. This study was conducted in a state that opted for a 36-month lifetime limit on assistance. Focusing on those most likely to be affected by the limit (long-term welfare recipients), it examined the post-closure experiences of recipients and their families. Specifically, it compared the characteristics and experiences of those who reached their lifetime limits with those of TANF clients whose cases were closed for other reasons. Results suggest that among long-term welfare recipients several factors distinguish those who reach the lifetime limits from those whose cases are closed due to increased income and other reasons. Generally, recipients who reached their lifetime limits were less advantaged than those whose cases were closed for increased income. They were less likely to have a high school diploma or GED, had poorer work histories, were more likely to have experienced severe domestic violence in the past 12 months, and more likely to report mental and physical health problems. In short, clients who reached the lifetime limits were likely to have continuing needs for assistance and support.
Magnetic Nanoparticle Sensors

Many types of biosensors employ magnetic nanoparticles (diameter = 5–300 nm) or magnetic particles (diameter = 300–5,000 nm) which have been surface functionalized to recognize specific molecular targets. Here we cover three types of biosensors that employ different biosensing principles, magnetic materials, and instrumentation. The first type consists of magnetic relaxation switch assay-sensors, which are based on the effects magnetic particles exert on water proton relaxation rates. The second type consists of magnetic particle relaxation sensors, which determine the relaxation of the magnetic moment within the magnetic particle. The third type is magnetoresistive sensors, which detect the presence of magnetic particles on the surface of electronic devices that are sensitive to changes in magnetic fields on their surface. Recent improvements in the design of magnetic nanoparticles (and magnetic particles), together with improvements in instrumentation, suggest that magnetic material-based biosensors may become widely used in the future.
Pattern recognition receptors and control of adaptive immunity

Summary: The mammalian immune system effectively fights infection through the cooperation of two connected systems, innate and adaptive immunity. Germ‐line encoded pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) of the innate immune system sense the presence of infection and activate innate immunity. Some PRRs also induce signals that lead to the activation of adaptive immunity. Adaptive immunity is controlled by PRR‐induced signals at multiple checkpoints dictating the initiation of a response, the type of response, the magnitude and duration of the response, and the production of long‐term memory. PRRs thus instruct the adaptive immune system on when and how to best respond to a particular infection. In this review, we discuss the roles of various PRRs in control of adaptive immunity.
MCMC sampling colourings and independent sets of G(n, d/n) near uniqueness threshold

Sampling from Gibbs distribution is a central problem in computer science as well as in statistical physics. In this work we focus on the k-colouring model} and the hard-core model with fugacity \lambda when the underlying graph is an instance of Erdos-Renyi random graph G(n,p), where p=d/n and d is fixed. We use the Markov Chain Monte Carlo method for sampling from the aforementioned distributions. In particular, we consider Glauber (block) dynamics. We show a dramatic improvement on the bounds for rapid mixing in terms of the number of colours and the fugacity for the corresponding models. For both models the bounds we get are only within small constant factors from the conjectured ones by the statistical physicists. We use Path Coupling to show rapid mixing. For k and \lambda in the range of our interest the technical challenge is to cope with the high degree vertices, i.e. vertices of degree much larger than the expected degree d. The usual approach to this problem is to consider block updates rather than single vertex updates for the Markov chain. Taking appropriately defined blocks the effect of high degree vertices somehow diminishes. However, devising such a construction of blocks is a highly non trivial task. We develop for a first time a weighting schema for the paths of the underlying graph. Vertices which belong to "light" paths, only, can be placed at the boundaries of the blocks. Then the tree-like local structure of G(n,d/n) allows the construction of simple structured blocks.
An experimental analysis of obsessive-compulsive checking as avoidance behaviour

Background:Many explanatory models of obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD) support the idea that compulsive behaviours are an attempt to avoid an aversive situation. There are few experimental studies carried out on the onset of repetitive behaviours. This study tries to create a repetitive checking behaviour as an analogue explaining similar OCD behaviours. Method: An inter-group design with 3 levels of aversion (minimal, progressive and maximum) in a visuo-spatial reasoning task was used. 48 university students without OCD problems (mean= 23 years old) were the participants, randomly distributed in 16 per group. Checking frequency (semi-hidden chronometer) for each task was measured and the questionnaires TONI-2, STAI, MOCI and YBOCS-SR were applied. Results: Participants with a minimal or maximum level difficulty showed a significantly higher level of checking behaviour than those in the progressive difficulty. The differences occurred between the minimal and the progressive group, and between the minimal and maximum difficulty. There were no differences in any other variable. Conclusion: In this analogue, the continuous checking of a chronometer was reinforced by the elimination of boring tasks. The momentary escape from an aversive situation explains the checking behaviour. This study could be an experimental analogue of checking behaviour, showing its avoidance function.
Treatment decision making in breast cancer: a longitudinal exploration of women's experiences.

OBJECTIVES To explore the lived experience of breast cancer in relation to the treatment decision-making process over time. DESIGN Adopting a hermeneutic phenomenological approach, semi-structured interviews were undertaken at three points in time during the year following diagnosis. METHODS After ethical approval had been obtained, 20 women who were recently diagnosed with breast cancer were recruited from a Symptomatic Breast Cancer Unit in the North East of England. RESULTS Four themes emerged: role in the treatment decision-making process; acceptance of medical opinions; getting rid of it; and cancer schemas. The majority of women reported a passive role in the surgical treatment decision-making process and all women did so in relation to subsequent treatment decisions. However, women adopted this role consciously and consequently were not disengaged from the process but maintained a sense of ownership and control over their health. The women did not describe experiencing decisional regret at any point in the year following diagnosis and rarely revisited the decisions made, only doing so in a positive manner. Trust in the abilities and experience of healthcare professionals and maximizing chances of survival were cited as reasons for not having had greater involvement. Despite being given information about treatment options, many women made the decision not to attend to this information perceiving this to be anxiety provoking. CONCLUSIONS The findings from this study suggest a need for eliciting more specific psycho-social interactions in the treatment decision-making process in order to identify ways in which women can be supported throughout their experience.
Frequency-Domain Analysis of Super-Regenerative Amplifiers

Since its invention in 1922, the super-regenerative amplifier (SRA) has been used in a variety of short-range, low-power, and/or low-cost wireless systems due to its simple implementation and excellent performance for a given power budget. Growing demand for ultralow-power receivers for short-range radios has recently reawakened an interest in the theory and design of SRAs. Building on recent work and using reasonable assumptions and approximations, we present a frequency-domain model for analyzing SRAs. We then use these models to predict the response of an SRA to arbitrary deterministic and stochastic signals including sinusoids, pulsed-sinusoids, and additive white Gaussian noise. Using the results, we present formulas for calculating the sensitivity and selectivity of SRAs. We also introduce the concept of a trigger-time that is particularly useful for accurately determining the optimal threshold in on-off keying (OOK) receivers and helps avoid the problems introduced by nonlinearity in SRAs. Finally, we present a prototype OOK SRA that achieves a sensitivity of -90 dBm at a bit rate of 300 kbps (BER of 10-3) while consuming 500 ¿W, and show that its measured sensitivity matches theory within 1 dB.
Population Genetic Structure of the Tropical Two-Wing Flyingfish (Exocoetus volitans)

Delineating populations of pantropical marine fish is a difficult process, due to widespread geographic ranges and complex life history traits in most species. Exocoetus volitans, a species of two-winged flyingfish, is a good model for understanding large-scale patterns of epipelagic fish population structure because it has a circumtropical geographic range and completes its entire life cycle in the epipelagic zone. Buoyant pelagic eggs should dictate high local dispersal capacity in this species, although a brief larval phase, small body size, and short lifespan may limit the dispersal of individuals over large spatial scales. Based on these biological features, we hypothesized that E. volitans would exhibit statistically and biologically significant population structure defined by recognized oceanographic barriers. We tested this hypothesis by analyzing cytochrome b mtDNA sequence data (1106 bps) from specimens collected in the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian oceans (n = 266). AMOVA, Bayesian, and coalescent analytical approaches were used to assess and interpret population-level genetic variability. A parsimony-based haplotype network did not reveal population subdivision among ocean basins, but AMOVA revealed limited, statistically significant population structure between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans (ΦST = 0.035, p<0.001). A spatially-unbiased Bayesian approach identified two circumtropical population clusters north and south of the Equator (ΦST = 0.026, p<0.001), a previously unknown dispersal barrier for an epipelagic fish. Bayesian demographic modeling suggested the effective population size of this species increased by at least an order of magnitude ~150,000 years ago, to more than 1 billion individuals currently. Thus, high levels of genetic similarity observed in E. volitans can be explained by high rates of gene flow, a dramatic and recent population expansion, as well as extensive and consistent dispersal throughout the geographic range of the species.
Structural and biochemical characterization of the nucleoside hydrolase from C. elegans reveals the role of two active site cysteine residues in catalysis

Nucleoside hydrolases (NHs) catalyze the hydrolysis of the N‐glycoside bond in ribonucleosides and are found in all three domains of life. Although in parasitic protozoa a role in purine salvage has been well established, their precise function in bacteria and higher eukaryotes is still largely unknown. NHs have been classified into three homology groups based on the conservation of active site residues. While many structures are available of representatives of group I and II, structural information for group III NHs is lacking. Here, we report the first crystal structure of a purine‐specific nucleoside hydrolase belonging to homology group III from the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (CeNH) to 1. 65Å resolution. In contrast to dimeric purine‐specific NHs from group II, CeNH is a homotetramer. A cysteine residue that characterizes group III NHs (Cys253) structurally aligns with the catalytic histidine and tryptophan residues of group I and group II enzymes, respectively. Moreover, a second cysteine (Cys42) points into the active site of CeNH. Substrate docking shows that both cysteine residues are appropriately positioned to interact with the purine ring. Site‐directed mutagenesis and kinetic analysis proposes a catalytic role for both cysteines residues, with Cys253 playing the most prominent role in leaving group activation.
Boyhood Gender Nonconformity

Abstract Reported childhood gender nonconformity, parental behavior, and measures of narcissistic symptomatology were examined in a sample of 109 gay and bisexual men. Childhood gender nonconformity was not related to narcissistic personality but was related to feelings of impostorhood and self-esteem, two possible symptoms of narcissistic damage. This association was partially mediated by parental variables, especially reports of an accepting and supportive father. Psychoanalytic theory suggests that both homosexuality and narcissism stem from early family dynamics. These results provide support for an alternative theory which, recognizing that childhood gender nonconformity and same-sex adult sexual orientation are linked, posits that narcissism results from parental reactions to childhood gender nonconformity. Implications for clinical interventions are discussed.
Crack formation on resected root surfaces subjected to conventional, ultrasonic, and laser root-end cavity preparation.

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate cracks on root ends following resection and cavity preparation with a laser and two established techniques. BACKGROUND DATA If root canal treatment of a tooth fails, an apicoectomy operation may be indicated. Three millimeters of the root tip is resected and a cavity of similar depth with parallel walls is cut to receive a root-end filling. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty extracted human maxillary anterior teeth were used. Their root canals were prepared with rotary instruments, and they were filled with gutta-percha. Twenty teeth were resected with tungsten carbide fissure burs, and their root-end cavities cut with tungsten carbide round burs at a slow speed (Group 1). The other 40 teeth were resected with an Er:YAG laser, and root-end cavities were made with the same laser (Group 2), or with an ultrasonically-powered zirconium nitride coated retrotip (Group 3). The number and types of cracks on the resected surfaces were assessed using a stereomicroscope before and after cavity preparation. RESULTS Cracking was not significantly different between the more conventional group and the laser groups after resections (p>0.05) or following cavity preparation (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS In this in vitro study, the laser resection and root-end preparation technique did not influence the number or type of cracks formed on the root surfaces.