Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Vancouver's Digital Strategy: Disruption, New Direction, or Business as Usual?

A growing number of cities have started to realize the need to be 'smart', to use digital technology to drive prosperity and capitalize on the rapidly growing digital economy. Some local governments have developed 'urban digital strategies' to speed up the pace of change, and to move their digital planning from ad-hoc to an integrated and strategic approach. This paper examines Vancouver's Digital Strategy VDS and questions the role defined for this new piece of strategy. The findings represent competing views-offered by local government versus digital business community-for the role of digital in two areas of governance, and strategic planning. The paper concludes by suggesting that urban digital strategies need be incorporated into strategic urban and regional planning with a focus on the biggest issues, specific to each city.
Real-world cost-effectiveness analysis of NOACs versus VKA for stroke prevention in Spain

Aims A Markov model was adapted to assess the real-world cost-effectiveness of rivaroxaban, dabigatran and apixaban. Each of these non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants was compared with vitamin K antagonist for stroke prevention in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation in Spain. Methods All inputs were derived from real-world studies: baseline patient characteristics, clinical event rates, as well as persistence rates for the vitamin K antagonist treatment option. A meta-analysis of real-world studies provided treatment effect and persistence data for rivaroxaban, dabigatran and apixaban, each compared with vitamin K antagonist therapy. The model considered 3-month cycles over a lifetime horizon. The model outcomes included different costs, quality-adjusted life years and life-years gained. Sensitivity analyses were performed to test the robustness of the model. Results When compared with vitamin K antagonist, rivaroxaban incurred incremental costs of €77 and resulted in incremental quality-adjusted life years of 0.08. The incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year was €952. For the same comparison, the incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year for dabigatran was €4,612. Finally, compared with vitamin K antagonist, the incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year for apixaban was €32,015. The sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the base case results. The probabilities to be cost-effective versus vitamin K antagonist were 94%, 86% and 35%, respectively, for rivaroxaban, dabigatran and apixaban, considering a willingness-to-pay threshold of €22,000 per quality-adjusted life year gained, based on a cost-effectiveness study of the Spanish National Health System. Conclusion These results suggest that rivaroxaban and dabigatran are cost-effective versus vitamin K antagonist for stroke prevention in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, from the Spanish National Health System perspective.
The prevalence of alcohol-involved crashes across high and low complexity road environments: Does knowing where drinking drivers crash help explain why they crash?

Objective Alcohol use has been linked to impairment of cognitive and psychomotor driving skills, yet the extent to which skill impairment contributes to actual crashes is unknown. A reasonable assumption is that some driving situations have higher skill demands than others. We contend that intersections, the presence of other vehicles or moving objects, and work zones are examples of common situations with higher skill demands. Accordingly, if skill deficits are largely responsible for alcohol-involved crashes, crashes involving a drinking driver (versus only sober drivers) should be overrepresented in these driving situations. Method Publicly available FARS data from 2010 to 2017 were collected. Fatal crashes were coded as alcohol-involved (1+ driver with a blood alcohol concentration [BAC] ≥ .05 g/dl) or having no impaired driver (BACs = .000). Drug-positive crashes were excluded. Crashes were also coded as involving moving versus stationary objects, occurring at versus away from intersections, being multivehicle versus single vehicle, occurring at or away from work zones. Results Across multiple models, controlling for time of day and type of road, alcohol-involved crashes were significantly underrepresented in crashes at intersections, with moving objects, and other vehicles. Most strikingly, alcohol-involved crashes were 24 percentage points more likely to be with a stationary object than a moving object. Conclusions No evidence supported the idea that skill reductions are a primary contributor to alcohol-involved crashes. Alternative explanations and limitations are discussed.
Increased functional connectivity between limbic brain areas in healthy individuals with high versus low sensitivity to cold pain: A resting state fMRI study

Background The representation of variability in sensitivity to pain by differences in neural connectivity patterns and its association with psychological factors needs further investigation. This study assessed differences in resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) and its association to cognitive-affective aspects of pain in two groups of healthy subjects with low versus high sensitivity to pain (LSP vs. HSP). We hypothesized that HSP will show stronger connectivity in brain regions involved in the affective-motivational processing of pain and that this higher connectivity would be related to negative affective and cognitive evaluations of pain. Methods Forty-eight healthy subjects were allocated to two groups according to their tolerability to cold stimulation (cold pressor test, CPT, 1°C). Group LSP (N = 24) reached the cut-off time of 180±0 sec and group HSP tolerated the CPT for an average of 13±4.8 sec. Heat, cold and mechanical evoked pain were measured, as well as pain-catastrophizing (PCS), depression, anxiety and stress (DASS-21). All subjects underwent resting state fMRI. ROI-to-ROI analysis was performed. Results In comparison to the LSP, the HSP had stronger interhemispheric connectivity of the amygdala (p = 0.01) and between the amygdala and nucleus accumbens (NAc) (p = 0.01). Amygdala connectivity was associated with higher pain catastrophizing in the HSP only (p<0.01). Conclusions These findings suggest that high sensitivity to pain may be reflected by neural circuits involved in affective and motivational aspects of pain. To what extent this connectivity within limbic brain structures relates to higher alertness and more profound withdrawal behavior to aversive events needs to be further investigated.
Application of comprehensive learning particle swarm optimisation algorithm for maximum likelihood DOA estimation in wireless sensor networks

Direction of arrival (DOA) estimation is one of the challenging problem in wireless sensor networks. Several methods based on maximum likelihood (ML) criteria have been established in literature. But, the multimodal nature of ML cost function is one of the inherent limitations in ML-DOA estimation technique. Generally, to obtain the likelihood solutions, the DOAs must be estimated by optimising a complicated function over a high-dimensional problem space. Recently particle swarm optimisation (PSO) algorithm is used in MLDOA estimation. To overcome the drawback of premature convergence in PSO, a learning strategy is introduced, and this approach called comprehensive learning particle swarm optimisation (CLPSO), which is applied to this problem and a comparison of results is made between these two. Simulation results confirms that the ML-CLPSO estimator is significantly giving better performance at low signal-to-noise ratio compared to conventional methods like multiple signal classification (MUSIC) and ML-PSO in various scenarios at less computational costs.
How to Introduce Experiential User Data: The Use of Information in Architects' Design Process

As architecture influences people’s daily life considerably, architects need in-depth insights in people’s spatial perception, needs, and desires. To be able to provide them with sufficient and suitable information on these matters we aim to investigate how architects currently use information in design, and how experiential user data could change their thinking about their projects and way of working. We conducted two focus group interviews with architects (designing healthcare buildings), each covering two parts. First, we discussed information use and knowledge generation during design. This resulted in a better understanding of a design process’ iterative nature with shifts in information content, type, and use. Several nuances were identified, e.g. between using general legal information and information focused on the building’s actual situation, and between obligatory and inspiring sources. Second, we presented different forms of research data, and probed participants' interest in and possible use of these. This provided insights in what information qualities architects look for while designing, identifying strengths and weaknesses. Also ideas for disseminating research results amongst architects were collected. We conclude by pointing out opportunities of using experiential user data to initiate and support changes in design practice that improve users’ wellbeing, especially in healthcare buildings.
Uncertainty propagation and reduction in reservoir forecasting

U ncertainty Propagation and R eduction in Reservoir Forecasting Author: Daniel Busby Output of complex simulators such as multiphase fluid flow simulators used in reservoir forecasting, can not be directly analysed from practitioners because of uncertainty. In fact, inputs of such simulators are derived from complicated inverse measurements and their values are generally highly un­ certain. The propagation of this uncertainty from the input to the output of such simulators, is a very difficult task usually requiring massive com­ putational power and hardware capacity. Traditional Monte Carlo methods are often unaffordable and need to be replaced by more efficient statistical methods. The statistical design and analysis of complex simulators output is used to sensibly reduce the number of required simulations by building a statistical approximation, an emulator, of the simulator output. To build such approximation, a number of runs are performed on a carefully selected input configurations (the experimental design) and the results are then anal­ ysed by mean of parametric or nonparametric regression techniques. In this work we focus on nonparametric regression techniques based on Gaussian process, considering both the frequentist and the Bayesian approach. A new sequential experimental design strategy referred to as hierarchical adaptive experimental design is proposed and tested on synthetic functions and on realistic reservoir models using a commercial oil reservoir multiphase flow simulator. Our numerical results show that the method effectively approxi­ mate the simulators output with the required approximation accuracy using an affordable number of simulator runs. Moreover, the number of simulations necessary to reach a given approximation accuracy is sensibly reduced respect to other existing experimental designs such as maximin latin hypercubes, or other classical designs used in commercial softwares. Once an accurate emulator of the simulator output is obtained, it can be also used to calibrate the simulator model using data observed on the real physical system. This process, referred to as history matching in reservoir forecasting, is fundamental to tune input parameters and to consequently re­ duce output uncertainty. An approach to model calibration using Bayesian inversion is proposed in the last part of this work. Here again a hierarchi­ cal emulator is adopted. An innovative sequential design is proposed with the objective of increasing the emulator accuracy around possible history matching solutions. The excellent performances obtained on a very compli­ cated reservoir test case, suggest the high potential of the method to solve complicated inverse problems. The proposed methodology is about to be commercialized in an industrial environment to assist reservoir engineers in uncertainty analysis and history matching. to my father Henry, for the long discussions and wise advices, to my mother Liviana, for her constant support and to my wife, Flaminia for having followed me to Abingdon and for her love.
Exploring mobile learning opportunities and challenges in Nepal: the potential of open-source platforms

With the increasing access to mobile devices in developing countries, the number of pilots and projects embracing mobile devices as learning tools is also growing. The important role it can play in improving education is also positively received within education communities. But, providing a successful mobile learning service is still significantly challenging. The considerable problems arise due to existing pedagogical, technological, political, social and cultural challenges and there has been a shortage of research concerning how to deploy and sustain this technology in a resource constrained educational environment. There are studies mainly conducted in sub-Saharan countries, India, and Latin America, which provide some guidelines for incorporating technology in the existing educational process. However, considering the contextual differences between these regions and other countries in Asia, such as Nepal, it requires a broader study in its own challenging socio-cultural context. In response to this difficulty, the aims of this exploratory research work are to study the distinct challenges of schools’ education in Nepal and evaluate the use of open-source devices to provide offline access to learning materials in order to recommend a sustainable mobile learning model. The developmental study was conducted in University of West London in order to assess the feasibility of these devices. The main study in Nepal explored i) the overall challenges to education in the challenging learning environment of schools with limited or no access to ICT, ii) how ICT might be helping teaching and learning in the rural public schools, and iii) how an offline mobile learning solution based on the open source platforms may facilitate English language teaching and learning. Data collection primarily involved interviews, questionnaires, observations and supplemented by other methods. This thesis presents the sustainable model for deploying and supporting mobile technology for education, which is based on the findings emerging from completed exploratory studies in Nepal. It highlights all the aspects that need to be addressed to ensure sustainability. However, to translate this understanding to a design is a complex challenge. For a mobile learning solution to be used in such challenging learning contexts, the need is to develop simple and innovative solutions that provide access to relevant digital learning resources and train teachers to embed technology in education. This thesis discusses these findings, limitations and presents implications for the design of future mobile learning in the context of Nepal.
Blunted cardiovascular reactivity to psychological stress and prospective health: a systematic review

ABSTRACT Novel research demonstrates that lower or ‘blunted’ cardiovascular reactions to stress are associated with a range of adverse outcomes. The aim of the current review was (1) to examine the prospective outcomes predicted by blunted cardiovascular reactivity and (2) to identify a range of blunted cardiovascular reaction levels that predict these outcomes. Electronic databases were systematically searched (Medline, PsycArticles, PsycInfo, CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science). Studies were included if they examined the prospective influence of blunted cardiovascular reactivity to psychological stress (SBP, DBP or HR) on a negative health, behavioural or psychological outcome. A total of 23 studies were included in the review. Blunted reactivity predicted (1) adverse cardiovascular health, primarily in cardiac samples (e.g., myocardial infarction, carotid atherosclerosis) and (2) outcomes associated with motivational and behavioural dysregulation in healthy samples (e.g., obesity, smoking addiction, depression). The cardiovascular reactivity threshold levels that were predictive of adverse health outcomes ranged between −3.00–12.59 bpm (14.41% to 136.59% lower than the sample mean) and −2.4–5.00 mmhg (65.99% to 133.80% lower than sample mean), for HR and DBP respectively. We posit that blunted reactions lower than, or equal to, the ranges reported here may be utilised by clinicians and researchers to identify individuals who are at increased risk of adverse cardiovascular health outcomes, as well as outcomes associated with motivational and behavioural dysregulation.
Evidence of protective effects of recombinant ADAMTS13 in a humanized model of sickle cell disease

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited red blood cell disorder that occurs worldwide. Acute vaso-occlusive crisis is the main cause of hospitalization in patients with SCD. There is growing evidence that inflammatory vasculopathy plays a key role in both acute and chronic SCD-related clinical manifestations. In a humanized mouse model of SCD, we found an increase of von Willebrand factor activity and a reduction in the ratio of a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin type 1 motif, number 13 (ADAMTS13) to von Willebrand factor activity similar to that observed in the human counterpart. Recombinant ADAMTS13 was administered to humanized SCD mice before they were subjected to hypoxia/re-oxygenation (H/R) stress as a model of vaso-occlusive crisis. In SCD mice, recombinant ADAMTS13 reduced H/R-induced hemolysis and systemic and local inflammation in lungs and kidneys. It also diminished H/R-induced worsening of inflammatory vasculopathy, reducing local nitric oxidase synthase expression. Collectively, our data provide for the first-time evidence that pharmacological treatment with recombinant ADAMTS13 (TAK-755) diminished H/R-induced sickle cell-related organ damage. Thus, recombinant ADAMTS13 might be considered as a potential effective disease-modifying treatment option for sickle cell-related acute events.
Thinking for healing: The role of mentalization deficits as moderator in the link between complicated grief and suicide ideation among suicide-loss survivors

Abstract Suicide-loss survivors are an at-risk population for complicated grief and suicide ideation. This study examined mentalization deficits as a possible moderator of the association between complicated grief and suicide ideation. Suicide-loss survivors (N = 152) completed questionnaires on complicated grief, suicide ideation, and mentalization deficits. Mentalization deficits facilitated suicide ideation, beyond the contribution of complicated grief. Complicated grief and suicide ideation were more strongly associated at higher mentalization deficit levels. Limitations include the non-representative cross-sectional nature of the sample and the use of a single item for suicide ideation. The findings highlight the critical link between complicated grief and suicide ideation among suicide-loss survivors and mentalization deficits’ role as its possible facilitator.
Effects of cluster nursing on cardiac function and quality of life in coronary heart disease patients with chronic heart failure

Abstract Background: Coronary heart disease (CHD) chronic heart failure has high morbidity and mortality, which poses a serious threat to patients’ quality of life and life safety. For the treatment of chronic heart failure of CHD, in addition to drugs, high quality nursing measures are also very important. Cluster nursing is a high-quality nursing model based on evidence-based evidence. There is no clinical study to evaluate the effect of cluster nursing on cardiac function and quality of life of CHD patients with chronic heart failure. Methods: This is a prospective randomized controlled trial to investigate the effects of cluster nursing on cardiac function and quality of life in patients with CHD chronic heart failure. Approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee of our hospital, patients will be randomly assigned to either routine nursing or cluster nursing. They will be followed up for 3 months after 4 weeks of treatment. Observation indicators include: The total effective rate of cardiac function improvement, Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire, left ventricular ejection fraction, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, 6-minute walk test, adverse reaction, etc. Data were analyzed using the statistical software package SPSS version 25.0. Discussion: This study will evaluate the effects of cluster nursing on cardiac function and quality of life of CHD patients with chronic heart failure. The results of this study will provide clinical basis for establishing reasonable and effective nursing programs for CHD patients with chronic heart failure.
Evidence of influenza A infection and risk of transmission between pigs and farmworkers

Interspecies transmission of influenza A virus (IAV) between pigs and people represents a threat to both animal and public health. To better understand the risks of influenza transmission at the human–animal interface, we evaluated 1) the rate of IAV detection in swine farmworkers before and after work during two human influenza seasons, 2) assessed risk factors associated with IAV detection in farmworkers and 3) characterized the genetic sequences of IAV detected in both workers and pigs. Of 58 workers providing nasal passage samples during 8‐week periods during the 2017/18 and 2018/19 influenza seasons, 33 (57%) tested positive by rRT‐PCR at least once. Sixteen (27%) workers tested positive before work and 24 (41%) after work. At the sample level, 58 of 1,785 nasal swabs (3.2%) tested rRT‐PCR positive, of which 20 of 898 (2.2%) were collected prior to work and 38 of 887 (4.3%) after work. Although farmworkers were more likely to test positive at the end of the working day (OR = 1.98, 95% CI 1.14–3.41), there were no influenza‐like illness (ILI) symptoms, or other risk indicators, associated with IAV detection before or after reporting to work. Direct whole‐genome sequencing from samples obtained from worker nasal passages indicated evidence of infection of a worker with pandemic 2009 H1N1 of human‐origin IAV (H1‐pdm 1A 3.3.2) when reporting to work, and exposure of several workers to a swine‐origin IAV (H1‐alpha 1A 1.1) circulating in the pigs on the farm where they were employed. Our study provides evidence of 1) risk of IAV transmission between pigs and people, 2) pandemic H1N1 IAV infected workers reporting to work and 3) workers exposed to swine harbouring swine‐origin IAV in their nasal passages temporarily. Overall, our results emphasize the need to implement surveillance and transmission preventive protocols at the pig/human interface.