Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
What factors reliably predict electronic cigarette nicotine delivery?

Background The ability of an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) to deliver nicotine effectively may be dependent on features of the device, the liquid and the user. Some of these features have been examined in previous work (eg, liquid nicotine concentration and puff topography), while others have not (eg, nicotine dependence and demographic characteristics). The purpose of this secondary analysis is to examine such features as predictors of e-cigarette nicotine delivery using a relatively large sample. Methods Four studies were combined in which e-cigarette-experienced users (n=63; 89% men; 75% white) and e-cigarette-naïve cigarette smokers (n=67; 66% men; 54% white) took 10 puffs from an eGo-style e-cigarette (~7.3 watts) filled with liquid that had a nicotine concentration of 18, 25 or 36 mg/mL. Thus, held constant across all studies were device features of battery/cartomiser style and power level and the topography parameters of puff number and interpuff interval. Blood was sampled before and after use, and puff topography was measured. Three general linear models were conducted to predict plasma nicotine concentrations (pre–post increase) for: (1) e-cigarette users only, (2) smokers only and (3) both groups combined. Predictor variables included puff duration, puff volume, liquid nicotine concentration, presession plasma nicotine concentration, nicotine dependence score (smokers only), gender and race. Results In all models tested, longer puff durations and higher liquid nicotine concentrations were associated significantly with increased nicotine delivery (ps<0.05). For e-cigarette users only, higher presession nicotine concentration was associated significantly with increased nicotine delivery (p<0.05). Conclusions Puff duration and liquid nicotine concentration may be among the more important factors to consider as regulators attempt to balance e-cigarette safety with efficacy. These findings should be interpreted in the context of devices with relatively low power output, a variable not studied here but likely also directly relevant to product regulation.
Impact of climate change on Lake Chamo Water Balance, Ethiopia

One of the most significant potential concerns of climate change is to understand changes in hydrological components and subsequent change in lakes water balance. In view of this study, the water balance components such as surface water inflow from gauged and ungauged sub-watersheds, precipitation and evaporation pattern of the natural reservoir and their associated impacts vis-a-vis altering the water balance of terminal Lake Chamo has a major concern in the present study. The raw A1B scenario outputs are characterized by significant biases and hence subjected to bias correction before applying in the hydrological modeling. The bias correction for A1B scenario for precipitation, maximum and minimum temperature was done by using linear scaling approach. This analysis is based on projection of two different scenarios of future time horizons: 2030s (2031-2040) and 2090s (2091-2100). A hydrological model, Hydrological Byrans Vattenbalansavdelning (HBV), was used to simulate the current and future inflow to the lake. The performance of the model was assessed through calibration and validation process and resulted in R2 from 0.64 to 0.81 during calibration and from 0.63 to 0.77 during validation and the relative volume error RVE is from -1.77 to 4.42% at the three stations. Mean annual inflow to Lake Chamo from gauged and un-gauged catchment is 257 mmyr-1. The estimated runoff for the period 2030s and 2090s is 215 and 147mmyr-1 respectively. The result shows that the mean annual inflow is decreased by 16.3 and 42.8% in 2030s and 2090s, respectively from the base time period. The result revealed the maximum and minimum temperatures increase for the two scenarios in future time horizons. However, precipitation decreased in all future time horizons. The A1B scenario reveals the decreasing pattern of lake water storage due to decrease of inflows components such over lake precipitation and surface water inflow in all the future time horizons. In this scenario, the over-lake evaporation is increased by 0.73 and 2.6% at 2030s and 2090s. Key words: Water balance, Lake Chamo, RCM, A1B, climate variability, HBV model.
The evolving story of AtzT, a periplasmic binding protein

The structure of AtzT, which is thought to be involved in atrazine uptake in bacteria, was solved by SAD phasing using an ethylmercury phosphate derivative. Density in the binding site was subsequently found to be guanine that was retained by the protein throughout the purification process. Replacing the guanine with 2-hydroxyatrazine allowed the manner of binding of this substrate to be determined and its comparison with what appears to be the original ligand for this protein.
Differences of Power Flows in Transmission and Distribution Networks and Implications on Inverter Droop Control

Control of distribution networks and thus knowledge about their characteristics gain in importance. As the R/X ratio is significantly higher in distribution networks than in transmission networks, the coupling between real and reactive power flows cannot be neglected anymore. This is usually discussed based on the analysis of the power flow equations. This paper provides calculations for two exemplary networks: a high-voltage transmission and a low-voltage distribution network. By randomly drawing the loads’ power consumption from a predefined set, initial values are generated which are used to compute a large amount of power flows by means of power system state estimation. The comparison of these power flows in both networks reveals that besides the difference in R/X ratio, the differences in the magnitudes of the impedances are also remarkably important for system behavior and control. The system variables, active and reactive powers, magnitudes and phase angles of voltages are coupled differently in distribution networks compared to transmission networks. The implications of these results on primary controllers of inverters are discussed and the impact of the findings is demonstrated by analyzing the performance of different primary controllers in both test networks.
Methods for Assessment of Supraharmonics in Power Systems. Part I: Theoretical Issues

Modern Smart Grids (SGs) are characterized by the simultaneous presence of time-varying and non-linear loads as well as distributed energy sources with power converters which contribute to wide spectra waveform distortions. Moreover, one of the crucial device of the SG architectures is the smart metering systems which utilize high frequencies for the power line communication (PLC) transmission. In particular, the presence of spectral components in the range of 2\div 150kHz (supraharmonics) has recently become an issue of great interest due to the interaction between widespread diffusion of high-spectral emission devices (e.g., end-user devices and converter-interfaced distributed generation systems) and power line communication systems. The complexity of these waveforms distortions makes their assessment a challenge. This paper critically analyses and compares two methods proposed in recent literature which seem particularly suitable for the spectral analysis of waveforms with wide spectra. One of the methods is based on the sliding-window discrete Fourier transform (SWDFT) referring to IEC standard harmonic estimation. The second method utilizes the sliding-window wavelet-modified ESPRIT-based method (SWWMEM). This is a companion document to a paper of the same title, Part II, where the methods are tested on synthetic and measured waveforms in terms of accuracy and computational efforts.
Physiological and Psychological Effects of Viewing Urban Parks in Different Seasons in Adults

Although the health benefits of urban parks have gained significant attention, the effects of viewing park landscape on older adult residents have not commanded much research. This study aimed to investigate the physiological and psychological effects of viewing cherry blossoms in spring and fresh greenery in early summer at urban parks. The experiments were conducted in two viewing spots in the same park in Japan during different seasons, and included 12 participants in both spring (mean age, 66.4 ± 10.5 years) and summer (mean age, 65.75 ± 10.1 years). Participants sat and viewed an urban park and city landscape for 11–15 min. Blood pressure was measured before and after the seated viewing while heart rate was measured continuously. Then, they evaluated the psychological responses using the Profile of Mood States and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Viewing cherry blossoms and fresh greenery in urban parks led to lower blood pressure in spring and early summer than viewing city areas in spring and early summer. Moreover, the score of vigor–activity was significantly higher; tension–anxiety was significantly lower in spring; and the state-anxiety level was significantly lower in early summer. The results of this study suggest that viewing urban parks results in physiological and psychological relaxation.
The Relationship Between Cumulative Exogenous Corticosteroid Exposure and Volumes of Hippocampal Subfields and Surrounding Structures.

PURPOSE/BACKGROUND Glucocorticoids are a class of hormones that include naturally occurring cortisol and corticosterone, as well as prescription drugs commonly used to manage inflammatory, autoimmune, and allergic conditions. Adverse effects, including neuropsychiatric symptoms, are common. The hippocampus appears to be especially sensitive to the effects of glucocorticoids. However, to our knowledge, no studies to date have examined hippocampal subfields in humans receiving glucocorticoids. We examined patients on chronic glucocorticoid regimens to determine relationships between dose and duration of treatment, and hippocampal subfields, and related regions volumes. METHODS/PROCEDURES The study included adult men and women receiving at least 5 mg daily of prednisone equivalents for at least 6 months. Volumes of brain regions were measured via magnetic resonance imaging. A multivariate general linear model was used for analysis, with brain volumes as dependent variables and age, sex, and cumulative corticosteroid exposure, as predictors. FINDINGS/RESULTS The study population consisted of 81 adult outpatients (43 male) on corticosteroids (mean dose, 7.88 mg; mean duration, 76.75 months). Cumulative glucocorticoid exposure was negatively associated with left and right hippocampal dentate gyrus/CA3 volume. In subsequent subgroup analysis, this association held true for the age group older than the median age of 46 years but not for the younger age group. IMPLICATIONS/CONCLUSIONS This finding is consistent with previous studies showing detrimental effects of elevated glucocorticoids on the hippocampus but further suggests that the dentate gyrus and CA3 regions are particularly vulnerable to those effects, which is consistent with animal models of chronic stress but has not been previously demonstrated in humans.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Thermal Behaviour of a New ThreedimensionalHybrid Fluoride Framework with Mixed Valence: (Fe2+/Fe3+)

Crystal structure of metal-organic frameworks (MOF’s) compound [Hdma]â(Fe2+Fe3+F6(Hamtaz)2) was hydrothermally synthesized, eventually assisted via classical heating (Acid Digestion Autoclave). Crystalline structure determination is formed from single crystal X-ray diffraction data. The unit cell is orthorhombic space group Imma, with cell parameters a=15.9520(14) A, b=9.4548(7) A, c=9.7056(8) A, V=1463.8(2) A3 and Z=4. The structure [Hdma]â(Fe2+Fe3+F6(Hamtaz)2) exhibits a three-dimensional inorganic network resulting from the association of FeIIFeIIIF6N4 planes with Hamtaz molecules in the [010] direction, as well as uncoordinated dimethylammonium cations [Hdma] which are formed by the hydrolysis of DMF solvent. The thermal analysis (TG) of the title compound shows that the decomposition undergoes two steps between 200°C and 600°C and the total experimental mass loss 63.03% assuming that the hematite Fe2O3, is the final product of the decomposition.
Association between prenatal exposure to bisphenol a and birth outcomes

Abstract Background: Previous studies investigated the relation of prenatal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) and birth outcomes, but these results were inconsistent. The aim of this study was to investigate the relation of prenatal exposure to BPA and birth outcomes, provide comprehensive results based on current studies. Methods: The PubMed, Cochrane databases, and Web of Science databases were searched systematically by two researchers respectively from their inceptions to Oct. 2018, using the following keywords “bisphenol A, birth weight, birth length, head circumference, gestational age, birth outcomes”. We extracted β coefficient and 95% confidence interval (CI) or β coefficient and standard deviation (SD) from included study. The subgroup analysis was performed to evaluate the potential heterogeneity between studies. We conducted sensitivity analysis by excluding the each individual study to assess the results whether were stable. Finally, the publication bias was performed by accumulative forest plot. Results: Seven studies with 3004 participants met the inclusion criteria. BPA had significant positively association with birth weight (β = 21.92, 95%CI: 1.50–42.35, P = .04). No significant associations were found between BPA and birth length, head circumference and gestational age (All of P > .05). Conclusion: This meta-analysis demonstrated that the BPA was positively associated with birth weight. Therefore, further studies are needed to investigate the critical sensitive period of influencing fetal development and to investigate the difference on gender.
Jordanian physics students' utilization of online instruction and their attitudes towards it

Given the limited number of currently available resources in Jordan, the ministry of Education is implementing a newly developed online physics curriculum; this is being trialed in a number of experimental public schools. This investment is still regarded with some skepticism among both students and teachers. This research seeks to redress the skepticism by examining the instructions of online physics curriculum in one of the experimental public schools. Eleventh grade students in their classroom were observed and surveyed. Participants were also interviewed to establish the current use of online curricula in schools in Jordan. The research outlines student's responses to questions about their own learning and their assessment of the value of online curricula in helping them to manage their studies. The findings of this study revealed that student collaboration, reflective thinking, class management, active learning, and technology competence were student's negative online learning experiences. The students' negative experiences were caused by lack of cognitive, social and teaching activities. The findings can lead to further insights about how Jordanian teachers can link their efforts to student perceptions of the many initiatives they undertake, especially in using online technology for teaching and learning.
Zika Virus Non-Structural Protein NS5 Inhibits the RIG-I Pathway and Interferon Lambda 1 Promoter Activation by Targeting IKK Epsilon

The Zika virus (ZIKV) is a member of the Flaviviridae family and an important human pathogen. Most pathogenic viruses encode proteins that interfere with the activation of host innate immune responses. Like other flaviviruses, ZIKV interferes with the expression of interferon (IFN) genes and inhibits IFN-induced antiviral responses. ZIKV infects through epithelial barriers where IFN-λ1 is an important antiviral molecule. In this study, we analyzed the effects of ZIKV proteins on the activation of IFN-λ1 promoter. All ZIKV proteins were cloned and transiently expressed. ZIKV NS5, but no other ZIKV protein, was able to interfere with the RIG-I signaling pathway. This inhibition took place upstream of interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) resulting in reduced phosphorylation of IRF3 and reduced activation of IFN-λ1 promoter. Furthermore, we showed that ZIKV NS5 interacts with the protein kinase IKKε, which is likely critical to the observed inhibition of phosphorylation of IRF3.
Who Am I? Locating the neural correlate of the self

Exploration into the domain of consciousness and ‘self’ originated within the realm of philosophical thought. However, neuroscientific research facilitates the transition from conceptualization to empiricism, allowing scientists to locate the underlying neural mechanisms behind this phenomenon. Binding the multiplicity of conscious modalities, including the sense of ownership over one's experiences, agency over actions and first-person perspective relating to memory, emotion, spatial and environmental awareness, involves a specific integrative mechanism. It is suggested that the predominant candidate for this faculty lies with synchronous firing between distal assemblies of neurones. However, each cell assembly relates to a specific cognitive capacity, the majority of which is circumstantially recruited as and when necessary, and remains transient in nature. The pervasive and underlying aspect of the conscious self comes from the sensation of ownership over phenomenal experience. This remains omnipresent during waking consciousness and can be correlated with activity within the medial prefrontal cortex. This paper reviews evidence from fMRI and PET data, along with investigations involving lesions, neurological dysfunction and meditation providing a map of cooperative neurological regions associated with the various categories of the conscious self. These regions have been located predominantly within the parietal and prefrontal cortices.
I Work Out, Who Cares if I’m Bigger: What Matters to Youth with ASD regarding Weight and Their Bodies?

ABSTRACT Background: Childhood overweight and obesity, in addition to weight stigma, can result in numerous physical and psychosocial conditions. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are at a higher risk of developing overweight/obesity than their typically developing peers, yet we know little about what matters to them with regards to weight and their bodies. Methods: Eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with youth with ASD. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using a phenomenological approach within an interpretive paradigm. Results: Participants mostly showed little concern about their weight. Participants highly valued moving their bodies and reported feeling good about their bodies. Discussion: Findings suggest that children with ASD may be more engaged in healthcare discussions focusing on growth and health rather than size and weight. This approach can also reduce stigmatizing discussions.
Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Transplantation: A Meta-Analysis

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication following solid-organ transplantation. However, the epidemiology of AKI and mortality risk of AKI among patients undergoing cardiac transplantation is not uniformly described. We conducted this study to assess the incidence of AKI and mortality risk of AKI in adult patients after cardiac transplantation. Methods: A systematic review of EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Databases was performed until June 2019 to identify studies evaluating the incidence of AKI (by standard AKI definitions), AKI requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT), and mortality risk of AKI in patients undergoing cardiac transplantation. Pooled AKI incidence and mortality risk from the included studies were consolidated by random-effects model. The protocol for this study is registered with PROSPERO (no. CRD42019134577). Results: 27 cohort studies with 137,201 patients undergoing cardiac transplantation were identified. Pooled estimated incidence of AKI and AKI requiring RRT was 47.1% (95% CI: 37.6–56.7%) and 11.8% (95% CI: 7.2–18.8%), respectively. The pooled ORs of hospital mortality and/or 90-day mortality among patients undergoing cardiac transplantation with AKI and AKI requiring RRT were 3.46 (95% CI, 2.40–4.97) and 13.05 (95% CI, 6.89–24.70), respectively. The pooled ORs of 1-year mortality among patients with AKI and AKI requiring RRT were 2.26 (95% CI, 1.56–3.26) and 3.89 (95% CI, 2.49–6.08), respectively. Conclusion: Among patients undergoing cardiac transplantation, the incidence of AKI and severe AKI requiring RRT are 47.1% and 11.8%, respectively. AKI post cardiac transplantation is associated with reduced short term and 1-year patient survival.
In Vitro Evaluation and Docking Studies of 5-oxo-5H-furo[3,2-g]chromene-6-carbaldehyde Derivatives as Potential Anti-Alzheimer’s Agents

A series of novel 2-carbo–substituted 5-oxo-5H-furo[3,2-g]chromene-6-carbaldehydes and their 6-(4-trifluoromethyl)phenylhydrazono derivatives have been prepared and evaluated for biological activity against the human acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). The most active compounds from each series were, in turn, evaluated against the following enzyme targets involved in Alzheimer’s disease, β-secretase (BACE-1) and lipoxygenase-15 (LOX-15), as well as for anti-oxidant potential. Based on the in vitro results of ChE and β-secretase inhibition, the kinetic studies were conducted to determine the mode of inhibition by these compounds. 2-(4-Methoxyphenyl)-5-oxo-5H-furo[3,2-g]chromene-6-carbaldehyde (2f), which exhibited significant inhibitory effect against all these enzymes was also evaluated for activity against the human lipoxygenase-5 (LOX-5). The experimental results were complemented with molecular docking into the active sites of these enzymes. Compound 2f was also found to be cytotoxic against the breast cancer MCF-7 cell line.
Title Synchronization seeking in multi-agent dynamic systems withcommunication uncertainties

This paper addresses robust consensus problems among multiple agents with uncertain parameters constrained in a given set. Specifically, the network coefficients are supposed polynomial functions of an uncertain vector constrained in a set described by polynomial inequalities. First, the paper provides a necessary and sufficient condition for robust first-order consensus based on the eigenvalues of the uncertain Laplacian matrix. Based on this condition, a sufficient condition for robust first-order consensus is derived by solving a linear matrix inequality (LMI) problem built by exploiting sum-of-squares (SOS) polynomials. Then, the paper provides a necessary and sufficient condition for robust second-order consensus through the uncertain expanded Laplacian matrix and Lyapunov stability theory. Based on this condition, a sufficient condition for robust second-order consensus is derived by solving an LMI problem built by exploiting SOS matrix polynomials. Some numerical examples illustrate the proposed results.