Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Uncontrolled asthma predicts severe COVID-19: a report from the Swedish National Airway Register

Background: Severe asthma increases the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes such as hospitalization and death. However, more studies are needed to understand the association between asthma and severe COVID-19. Methods: A cohort of 150,430 adult asthma patients were identified in the Swedish National Airway Register (SNAR) from 2013 to December 2020. Data on body mass index, smoking habits, lung function, and asthma control test (ACT) were obtained from SNAR, and uncontrolled asthma was defined as ACT ⩽19. Patients with severe COVID-19 were identified following hospitalization or in death certificates based on ICD-10 codes U07.1 and U07.2. The Swedish Prescribed Drug register was used to identify comorbidities and data from Statistics Sweden for educational level. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to estimate associations with severe COVID-19. Results: Severe COVID-19 was identified in 1067 patients (0.7%). Older age (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.03–1.04), male sex (1.42, 1.25–1.61), overweight (1.56, 1.27–1.91), obesity (2.12, 1.73–2.60), high-dose inhaled corticosteroids in combination with long-acting β-agonists (1.40, 1.22–1.60), dispensed oral corticosteroids ⩾2 (1.48, 1.25–1.75), uncontrolled asthma (1.64, 1.35–2.00), cardiovascular disease (1.20, 1.03–1.40), depression (1.47, 1.28–1.68), and diabetes (1.52, 1.29–1.78) were associated with severe COVID-19, while current smoking was inversely associated (0.63, 0.47–0.85). When comparing patients who died from COVID-19 with those discharged alive from hospital until 31 December 2020, older age, male sex, and current smoking were associated with COVID-19 death. Conclusion: Patients with uncontrolled asthma and high disease burden, including increased asthma medication intensity, should be identified as risk patients for severe COVID-19. Furthermore, current smoking is strongly associated with COVID-19 death in asthma.
Demand response aggregator coordinated two-stage responsive load scheduling in distribution system considering customer behaviour

A demand response aggregator (DRA)-coordinated load scheduling in distribution system with responsive loads is presented. The mutually exclusive scheduling objectives of demand response provider (DRP) and distribution network operator (DNO) are optimally compromised by DRA through incentive-based participation strategies of DRPs. Thus, the proposed methodology is a two-stage optimisation process in which the prioritised schedules (to minimise total electricity charges/cost) of DRP obtained through first-stage optimisation are rescheduled by DRA in the second-stage optimisation considering the system/DNO benefits. The proposed methodology considers the behaviour (risk averse nature, incentive favourable nature etc.) through DRPs registration in various participation strategies. The effectiveness of proposed methodology on techno-economic aspects/attributes is examined using IEEE 34 bus distribution system for different operating conditions. The sensitivity analysis include the effect of load schedules due to change in strategy election by DRPs, change in performance attributes with respect to the penetration levels of responsive loads. The simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of DRA-coordinated load scheduling over base case with no responsive loads as well as prioritised schedules of responsive loads by DRPs. The optimal compromise between the objectives of DRPs and DNO is observed in terms of system wide benefits and electricity charges/cost of DRPs. The variation of techno-economic aspects differs between DRPs-based schedules and DRA schedules at higher penetration levels.
Integrated distribution of wireless andwired services using a passive opticalfibre network

The desire for high bandwidth multi-media reach content and the exponential growth of Internet traffic has led to the penetration of optical technologies into the access segment in the form of Fibre-To-The-x (FFT-x) topologies. Due to its cost effectiveness and low energy consumption, most FFT-x models have been based on Passive Optical Networks (PONs) where the employment of in-line active components has been discouraged. Next generation optical access networks are required to provide higher bandwidth-distance product and support wireless services in a cost effective manner. Through experimental and simulation work, this thesis examines the use of multicarrier modulation formats such as Orthogonal Frequency Division multiplexing (OFDM) and Filter Bank Multi Carrier (FBMC) as mans of helping to meet the bandwidth-distance requirements set for next generation optical access networks. OFDM and FBMC both exhibit high spectral efficiency and a tolerance to chromatic dispersion making them excellent candidates for use in next generation optical access networks. In order to promote cost efficiency these systems are also studied in conjunction with Direct Modulation of novel laser devices and direct detection. In this work, the accommodation of Long Term Evolution (LTE) services in hybrid wired/wireless optical access networks is also demonstrated using spectral notching either by deactivation of subcarriers in OFDM or line-coding techniques in OOK based wired services. The use of FBMC and OFDM is also studied in light of uplink transmission in optical access networks without the employment of spectral guard bands that is commonly used for the reduction of Multiple Access Interference (MAI).
Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy and Electrochemistry: The Ultimate Chemical Sensing and Manipulation Combination

Abstract One of the lessons we learned from the COVID-19 pandemic is that the need for ultrasensitive detection systems is now more critical than ever. While sensors’ sensitivity, portability, selectivity, and low cost are crucial, new ways to couple synergistic methods enable the highest performance levels. This review article critically discusses the synergetic combinations of optical and electrochemical methods. We also discuss three key application fields—energy, biomedicine, and environment. Finally, we selected the most promising approaches and examples, the open challenges in sensing, and ways to overcome them. We expect this work to set a clear reference for developing and understanding strategies, pros and cons of different combinations of electrochemical and optical sensors integrated into a single device.
How does a celiac iceberg really float? The relationship between celiac disease and gluten

Abstract Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune intestinal disease caused by intolerance of genetically susceptible individuals after intake of gluten-containing grains (including wheat, barley, etc.) and their products. Currently, CD, with “iceberg” characteristics, affects a large population and is distributed over a wide range of individuals. This present review summarizes the latest research progress on the relationship between CD and gluten. Furthermore, the structure and function of gluten peptides related to CD, gluten detection methods, the effects of processing on gluten and gluten-free diets are emphatically reviewed. In addition, the current limitations in CD research are also discussed. The present work facilitates a comprehensive understanding of CD as well as gluten, which can provide a theoretical reference for future research.
Shape differences in the semitendinosus following tendon harvesting for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Following hamstring autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), muscle length, cross‐sectional area, and volume are reduced. However, these discrete measures of morphology do not account for complex three‐dimensional muscle shape. The primary aim of this study was to determine between‐limb semitendinosus (ST) shape and regional morphology differences in young adults following tendon harvest for ACLR and to compare these differences with those in healthy controls. In this cross‐sectional study, magnetic resonance imaging was performed on 18 individuals with unilateral ACLR and 18 healthy controls. Bilaterally, ST muscles were segmented, and shape differences assessed between limbs and compared between groups using Jaccard index (0–1) and Hausdorff distance (mm). Length (cm), peak cross‐sectional area (cm2), and volume (cm3) were measured for the entire muscle and proximal, middle, and distal regions, and compared between limbs and groups. Compared to healthy controls, the ACLR group had significantly (p < 0.001, Cohen's d = −2.33) lower bilateral ST shape similarity and shape deviation was significantly (p < 0.001, d = 2.12) greater. Shape deviation was greatest within the distal region of the ACLR (Hausdorff: 23.1 ± 8.68 mm). Compared to both the uninjured contralateral limb and healthy controls, deficits in peak cross‐sectional area and volume in ACLR group were largest in proximal (p < 0.001, d = −2.52 to −1.28) and middle (p < 0.001, d = −1.81 to −1.04) regions of the ST. Overall, shape analysis provides unique insight into regional adaptations in ST morphology post‐ACLR. Findings highlight morphological features in distal ST not identified by traditional discrete morphology measures. Clinical significance: Following ACLR, risk of a secondary knee or primary hamstring injury has been reported to be between 2‐to‐5 times greater compared to those without ACLR. Change in semitendinosus (ST) shape following ACLR may affect force transmission and distribution within the hamstrings and might contribute to persistent deficits in knee flexor and internal rotator strength.
Structural Phase Transitions between Layered Indium Selenide for Integrated Photonic Memory

The primary mechanism of optical memoristive devices relies on phase transitions between amorphous and crystalline states. The slow or energy‐hungry amorphous–crystalline transitions in optical phase‐change materials are detrimental to the scalability and performance of devices. Leveraging an integrated photonic platform, nonvolatile and reversible switching between two layered structures of indium selenide (In2Se3) triggered by a single nanosecond pulse is demonstrated. The high‐resolution pair distribution function reveals the detailed atomistic transition pathways between the layered structures. With interlayer “shear glide” and isosymmetric phase transition, switching between the α‐ and β‐structural states contains low re‐configurational entropy, allowing reversible switching between layered structures. Broadband refractive index contrast, optical transparency, and volumetric effect in the crystalline–crystalline phase transition are experimentally characterized in molecular‐beam‐epitaxy‐grown thin films and compared to ab initio calculations. The nonlinear resonator transmission spectra measure of incremental linear loss rate of 3.3 GHz, introduced by a 1.5 µm‐long In2Se3‐covered layer, resulted from the combinations of material absorption and scattering.
Risk-Likelihood Perceptions and Preventive Behaviors Against Infectious Diseases: Testing Different Types of Risk-Likelihood Perceptions in the Context of MERS and COVID-19

ABSTRACT Effective public health communication should take into the consideration how communicated risk perceptions might influence the public. Although many health behavior theories claim that high perceived risk likelihood motivates preventive health behaviors, this general prediction is complicated by different ways of estimating risk likelihood. Our review of 14 previous studies on perceived risk of infectious diseases revealed different measures of risk likelihood and inconsistent findings regarding the relationship between perceived risk likelihood and behavioral intention. Drawn from the review, we examined the predictive power of different types of risk likelihood on intention to prevent infectious diseases. Using two separate data sets, collected during the 2015 outbreak of the Middle East respiratory syndrome (N = 557) and the COVID-19 pandemic of 2021 (N = 1,001), we demonstrated that perceived risk likelihood that specifies future inaction on health behaviors (i.e., conditional absolute risk perception) better predicted behavioral intention than did other types of risk perceptions. When the effect of conditional absolute risk perception was controlled, the behavioral intention and unconditional absolute risk perception showed a negative relationship. The findings have theoretical and practical implications that can inform strategic communication during future outbreaks.
Non-attendance in cervical cancer screening among migrant women in Portugal: A cross-sectional study

Objectives: Cervical cancer has a high mortality rate among women worldwide. Although cervical cancer screening (CCS) is an effective strategy in reducing mortality of the disease, inequalities in accessing screening exist, particularly among migrant women. This study aims to characterize migrant women’s participation in CCS and determine factors associated with non-attendance to CCS. Methods: A cross-sectional study based on a web-based survey targeting adult migrant women living in Portugal was conducted. Prevalence of non-attendance to CCS was examined, and its associations with socioeconomic, migration-related, and health-related factors were determined using adjusted logistic regression models. Results: A total of 1100 migrant women were included in the study. Prevalence of CCS non-attendance was 24.5%. CCS non-attendance was associated with younger age, being born in Africa or Asia, being single/divorced/widowed, never having had a GP appointment in Portugal and not having regular gynecology appointments. Being born in South and Central America, shorter length of stay in Portugal, having had HPV vaccination, and not having children are associated with CCS attendance. Conclusion: These findings point out that an important percentage of migrant women do not attend CCS. Strategies to increase participation should be developed, considering the inequalities identified and designed to target the specific needs of migrant women to improve their CCS attendance and increase cervical cancer prevention.
Distributing a Neural Network on Axis Cameras

This document describes the methods and results of our Master’s Thesis, car- ried out at Axis Communications AB. A central problem with deep neural networks is that they contain a large num- ber of parameters and heavy computations. To cope with this, our idea was to split the network into chunks large enough that they require their own core, yet small enough to not violate our memory constraints. The goal of the thesis is to investigate whether it is feasible to distribute and run a deep neural network on a network of cameras with tight constraints such as bandwidth and memory capacity. This is done by performing experiments on existing cameras as well as Raspberry Pi’s as an assumption of how the next generation of cameras might perform. The first part of the thesis discusses how a neural network can be partitioned, and describes the problems that may occur while doing so. The second part of the thesis presents results and measurements when run on cameras and Rasp- berry Pi’s. The results and measurements are then discussed. Optimizations and bottlenecks are then described and discussed. In this part, the thesis discusses how the application benefits from hardware acceler- ation. Conclusively a few unsolved problems are identified and presented as future work. (Less)
HSF1 facilitates the multistep process of lymphatic metastasis in bladder cancer via a novel PRMT5‐WDR5‐dependent transcriptional program

Lymphatic metastasis has been associated with poor prognosis in bladder cancer patients with limited therapeutic options. Emerging evidence shows that heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) drives diversified transcriptome to promote tumor growth and serves as a promising therapeutic target. However, the roles of HSF1 in lymphatic metastasis remain largely unknown. Herein, we aimed to illustrate the clinical roles and mechanisms of HSF1 in the lymphatic metastasis of bladder cancer and explore its therapeutic potential.
We only know that we don’t know: attachment patterns and psychological coping during the COVID-19 pandemic – the mediation role of intolerance of uncertainty

ABSTRACT The global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic created sudden changes in many areas of daily life and increased uncertainty about the future. Two studies examined the association between attachment patterns and mental well-being during the pandemic, the mediating role of intolerance of uncertainty (IOU), and factors related to social relationships and self-perceptions. The results of the first study, conducted at the outbreak of the pandemic, indicated that individuals with high levels of attachment anxiety experienced more negative emotions and fewer positive emotions at that time, and that IOU and perceived social support mediated these associations. The results of the second study, conducted several months into the pandemic, indicated an association between attachment anxiety and avoidance, and perceived stress during the time of the pandemic. Results of Study 2 also indicated that IOU mediated the association between attachment anxiety and stress, and that sense of coherence (SOC) mediated the association between attachment anxiety and avoidance, and stress. These findings underscore the adverse psychological effects of uncertain situations, especially for individuals with a fragile foundation of interpersonal support, thus emphasizing the need for action to reduce uncertainty, especially in times of emergency.
Combined multivariate statistical and flux balance analyses uncover media bottlenecks to the growth and productivity of Chinese hamster ovary cell cultures

Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells are widely used for producing recombinant proteins. To enhance their productivity and product quality, media reformulation has been a key strategy, albeit with several technical challenges, due to the myriad of complex molecular mechanisms underlying media effects on culture performance. Thus, it is imperative to characterize metabolic bottlenecks under various media conditions systematically. To do so, we combined partial least square regression (PLS‐R) with the flux balance analysis of a genome‐scale metabolic model to elucidate the physiological states and metabolic behaviors of human alpha‐1 antitrypsin producing CHO‐DG44 cells grown in one commercial and another two in‐house media under development. At the onset, PLS‐R was used to identify metabolite exchanges that were correlated to specific growth and productivity. Then, by comparing metabolic states described by resultant flux distributions under two of the media conditions, we found suboptimal level of four nutrients and two metabolic wastes, which plausibly hindered cellular growth and productivity; mechanistically, lactate and ammonia recycling were modulated by glutamine and asparagine metabolisms in the media conditions, and also by hitherto unsuspected folate and choline supplements. Our work demonstrated how multivariate statistical analysis can be synergistically combined with metabolic modeling to uncover the mechanistic elements underlying differing media performance. It thus paved the way for the systematic identification of nutrient targets for medium reformulation to enhance recombinant protein production in CHO cells.
Help or punishment: acute stress moderates basal testosterone's association with prosocial behavior

Abstract The gonadal hormone testosterone is well-recognized to facilitate various behaviors for obtaining social status. A good reputation (i.e. competitive, generous, and trustworthy) is of crucial importance for acquiring high social status. It is unclear which type of reputation is preferred by individuals under the influence of testosterone. Given that the recent dual-hormone hypothesis emphasizes the modulating effect of stress (cortisol) on the influence of testosterone, it would be intriguing to test the role of stress-induced cortisol in testosterone-related reputation seeking. To test this hypothesis, we induced acute stress in 93 participants with cold pressor test (CPT) paradigm (vs. control condition), and then they were instructed to play a third-party intervention game, in which they made decisions as an uninvolved, outside the third party to punish a violator, help a victim, or do nothing. Salivary samples were obtained to assess participants’ testosterone and cortisol levels. We split the testosterone concentration by median to low endogenous testosterone (LT) and high endogenous testosterone (HT). We found that HT individuals’ prosocial preferences did not affect by acute stress. They were more likely to choose punishment than helping under both stress and control conditions. In contrast, individuals with low testosterone were more inclined to help than punish under control conditions. Interestingly, acute stress brought behavior patterns of LT individuals closer to those of HT individuals, that is, they reduced their helping behavior and increased the intensity of punishments. In this preliminary study on the preference inducement of testosterone for different types of prosocial behaviors, we discuss the physiological mechanism of the relationship between testosterone and reputation and the implications of these results for the dual-hormone hypothesis. HIGHLIGHTS Low testosterone (LT) individuals were more inclined to help than punish. High testosterone (HT) individuals were more inclined to punish than help. The HT individuals' preferences for prosocial types were not affected by acute stress. Acute stress brought the behavior patterns of LT individuals closer to those of HT individuals.
Potential induced degradation of n‐type crystalline silicon solar cells with p+ front junction

N‐type silicon‐based solar cells are currently being used for achieving high efficiency. However, most of the photovoltaic modules already constructed are based on p‐type silicon solar cells, and there are few studies on potential induced degradation (PID) in n‐type solar cells. In this study, we investigated PID in n‐type silicon solar cells with a front p+ emitter. Further, the PID characteristics of n‐type solar cells are compared with those of p‐type solar cells. The electrical properties of PID in solar cells are observed with the light I‐V, quantum efficiency (QE), and electroluminescence (EL). The possible causes for the change in the external quantum efficiency (EQE) after PID are interpreted using PC1D and are discussed by comparing the experimental results with the simulation results.