Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Comparing trimodal therapy with radical cystectomy in muscle-invasive bladder cancer: an updated meta-analysis

Background We conducted this meta-analysis to compare the two muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) treatment modalities in terms of cancer-specific survival (CSS) and other outcome indicators. Method A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) guidelines. The search was conducted using various academic databases including Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane database, EMBASE, Chinese biomedical literature database, Wan fang databases, and China National Knowledge Internet databases between 1966 and December 2023. This review protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) No. (CRD42023398977). Result This study included a total of 54,816 patients diagnosed with bladder cancer from 14 studies, of which 6,228 patients were assigned to the trimodal therapy (TMT) group and 48,588 patients were assigned to the radical cystectomy (RC) group. Based on the results, the RC group exhibited a higher rate of survival than the TMT group [pooled hazard ratio (HR) = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.18–1.28, Z = 1.46, P < 0.001]. In terms of CSS, patients in the RC group had a longer CSS compared with those in the TMT group (pooled HR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.29–1.67, Z = 5.893, P < 0.001). Compared with RC, TMT is significantly associated with an increased risk of both types of mortality (pooled HR: 1.30, P < 0.001). Conclusion Overall, the findings of this meta-analysis suggest that RC treatment may be associated with improved overall survival. Moreover, it was observed that cancer-specific survival was significantly prolonged among patients in the RC group as opposed to those who received TMT. In addition, it was shown that patients who received TMT exhibited a higher risk of all-cause mortality when compared with those who underwent RC.
Concepts and considerations for successful reproductive management and monitoring

Dairy owners have traditionally served many different roles on dairies, but with increasing size and complexity of the operations, there is a greater demand placed on their administrative abilities. To be successful, owner managers must take a stronger role as chief executive officer and establish the strategy and vision for an operation, create an appropriate work culture, hire and train workers, and decide how to best secure and allocate capital. Key components of a successful dairy operation are a strong training system so that employees know not only what is expected of them, but how to succeed and a timely monitoring and evaluation system. Timed artificial insemination (TAI) has been one of the most beneficial tools introduced in recent years for improving reproductive performance. There are a variety of TAI options for herds but each is designed to synchronize ovulation sufficiently to allow for acceptable conception risks while improving breeding efficiency. Herds that have experienced success with TAI have been those with excellent management and an eye for detail. Careful selection of the appropriate protocol, followed by consistent implementation and routine monitoring of both the processes and the ultimate outcomes are all key components for success. When performance is not as expected, excellent quality records that are properly evaluated can provide clues as to the potential problem areas.
UvA-DARE (Digital Academic Repository) (Mal)Adaptive Learning After Switches Between Object-Based and Rule-Based Environments

In reinforcement-learning studies, the environment is typically object-based; that is, objects are predictive of a reward. Recently, studies also adopted rule-based environments in which stimulus dimensions are predictive of a reward. In the current study, we investigated how people learned (1) in an object-based environment, (2) following a switch to a rule-based environment, (3) following a switch to a different rule-based environment, and (4) following a switch back to an object-based environment. To do so, we administered a reinforcement-learning task comprising of four blocks with consecutively an object-based environment, a rule-based environment, another rule-based environment, and an object-based environment. Computational-modeling results suggest that people (1) initially adopt rule-based learning despite its suboptimal nature in an object-based environment, (2) learn rules after a switch to a rule-based environment, (3) experience interference from previously-learned rules following a switch to a different rule-based environment, and (4) learn objects after a final switch to an object-based environment. These results imply people have a hard time adjusting to switches between object-based and rule-based environments, although they do learn to do so.
A Cryo-CMOS SAR ADC With FIA Sampling Driver Enabled by Cryogenic-Aware Back-Biasing

This paper presents a floating inverter amplifier (FIA) that performs high-linearity amplification and sampling while driving a $2\times $ time-interleaved (TI) SAR ADC, operating from room temperature (RT) down to 4.2K. The power-efficient FIA samples the continuous-time input signal by windowed integration, thus avoiding the traditional sample-and-hold. Cascode switching, a floating supply and accurate pulse-width timing calibration enable high-speed operation and interleaving. In addition, by exploiting the behavior of CMOS devices at cryogenic temperatures, forward-body-biasing (FBB) is pushed well beyond what is possible at RT to ensure performance down to 4.2K, and its impact on the performance of cryogenic circuits is analyzed. The resulting ADC, implemented in 40-nm bulk CMOS and including the FIA driver, achieves SNDR=38.7dB (38.2dB), SFDR>50dB (>50dB), and FOMW=25.4fJ/conv-step (31.3 fJ/conv-step) with Nyquist-rate input at 1.0GS/s (0.9GS/s) at 4.2K (RT), respectively.
Brain metabolic profile assessed by magnetic resonance spectroscopy in ‎‎children with Down syndrome: Relation to intelligence quotient

BACKGROUND Down syndrome (DS) is one of the most common causes of intellectual disability. Children with DS have varying intelligence quotient (IQ) that can predict their learning abilities. AIM To assess the brain metabolic profiles of children with DS and compare them to standard controls, using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and correlating the results with IQ. METHODS This case-control study included 40 children with DS aged 6-15 years and 40 age and sex-matched healthy children as controls. MRS was used to evaluate ratios of choline/creatine (Cho/Cr), N-acetyl aspartic acid/creatine (NAA/Cr), and myoinositol/creatine (MI/Cr (in the frontal, temporal, and occipital lobes and basal ganglia and compared to controls and correlated with IQ. RESULTS Children with DS showed significant reductions in NAA/Cr and MI/Cr and a non-significant reduction in Cho/Cr in frontal lobes compared to controls. Additionally, we observed significant decreases in NAA/Cr, MI/Cr, and Cho/Cr in the temporal and occipital lobes and basal ganglia in children with DS compared to controls. Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between IQ and metabolic ratios in the brains of children with DS. CONCLUSION Brain metabolic profile could be a good predictor of IQ in children with DS.
Analyse quantitative de données laser 3D : Classification et modélisation du terrain

Airborne laser scanner technique provides a 3D perception of the terrestrial topography, including true ground and objects belonging either to vegetated areas or to human made features. The high intrinsic accuracy and regularity of airborne laser sensors makes highly conceivable the extraction of structural information related to the recorded 3D-points. In this respect, a new algorithm has been developed in order to classify the initial cloud of points into ground/non ground earth points and generate accurate Digital Terrain Models (DTMs) on a regular grid. Our approach is based on a multiple pass classification process. An estimation of the ground is performed within overlapping neighbourhood and laser points are classified with regard to this ground estimation. The algorithm moves toward the neighbour where the average altitude is the lowest. We then compare the vicinity of the terrain with the estimated ground and apply a linear correction. As it goes along, points are filtered many times until we vote for the final label. The estimated ground surface is then the input of an energy minimization algorithm (ICM) which consider laser points as a set of attractors. The final DTM will be a trade off between internal properties and its closeness to ground laser points. The resolution may be fine enough to proceed relevant micro relief analysis especially in a rural environment.
Space use and habitat affinities of the singing vole on the northern foothills of the Brooks Range, Alaska

Arctic tundra is being affected by a rapidly warming climate, which is accompanied by shifts in plant community composition and structure. Shrub expansion, a predominant consequence of this warming, is linked with changes in nutrient cycling and has direct implications to global change biology. Habitats are being altered across the landscape, with subsequent changes to arctic faunal communities. While herbivory has been noted as important in contributing to plant community composition in the arctic, with the potential to both exacerbate and mitigate shifts toward shrub-dominated tundra landscapes, little research has been conducted on herbivore dynamics. Microtine rodents (i.e., voles and lemmings) are the dominant vertebrate herbivores in the Alaskan Arctic. Through mark-recapture surveys and analysis of individual and populationlevel space use, I studied the population ecology of the microtine community to better establish the role of these small mammals in this rapidly changing region. Co-dominant species, the singing vole and the tundra vole, exhibit limited ecological overlap, preferring different habitat types and food sources. Results from surveys confirmed previously documented spatial segregation of the two co-dominant species by habitat along a moisture gradient. Interpretation of results suggest that extrinsic factors, possibly relating to stochastic winter climatic events impact these co-dominant species differently. Over the duration of the study, the singing vole was locally more abundant despite preferring regionally less available habitat, which suggests that its habitat may buffer singing vole populations from the affects of stochastic events. Analysis of space use by the singing vole indicated that both intraspecific interaction and microhabitat affinities played a role in local scale space use, which, through selective herbivory and concentrated deposition of nutrients, has implications on its role in structuring tundra plant communities. Further research on these species over a longer duration will classify the impact of extrinsic factors on population dynamics and the impact of resource use on local and landscape level changes to the tundra ecosystem.
Clinical Procedures: A New Test to Examine the Different Components in Subjective Monocular Refraction

Significance: Subjective monocular refraction is the basis for determining an optometric prescription. A single testing target for determining the final prescription, by simultaneous viewing with a method to control testing error, simplifies the procedure, since the patient has a better appreciation of the end-point and relates more easily to the examination. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify a test chart and method of examination to improve the efficiency of determining the correction of the astigmatic and spherical components of a prescription. The testing procedure uses an immediate comparison and avoids sequential testing that relies on memory. A method of avoiding errors, caused by looking away from the optical centre, is included. This is important in cases of high prescriptions. This method may be suitable for ancillary staff to use in the introductory testing routine. Method: A single, non-movable test chart, independent of the circle of least confusion, is presented. The target is based on the simultaneous resolution of a line in four meridians. A second chart is incorporated into the principal chart. This uses chromatic displacement caused by the off-centre viewing of a prism to avoid errors. Result: This testing method, when used in the clinic, has been shown to be efficient and easily understood. A limited independent trial showed that the method is as effective as traditional methods and gives acceptable results when used by ancillary staff. The results obtained by non-experienced individuals are also presented. This may be useful in environments where no professional staff are available. Conclusion: The method described here improves the examination of subjective refraction without the need to change targets. There is no need to consider the circle of least confusion. The target includes tests for axis, cylinder power, spherical power and duochrome. The use of a simultaneous comparison is better received by patients than the sequential test, and is easily understood. The spherical end-point is definite, unless there is hyper-acuity or accommodative spasm. The test improves the ability of the patient to understand, and be comfortable with, the testing method. Binocular balance is not considered here.
Does myo‐inositol supplementation influence oxidative stress biomarkers in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease?

Abstract Myo‐inositol (MI) is a carbocyclic sugar polyalcohol. MI has known to exert anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidant, and anti‐diabetic activities. This study aimed to investigate the effects of MI supplementation on oxidative stress biomarkers in obese patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In this double‐blinded placebo‐controlled randomized clinical trial, 51 newly diagnosed obese patients with NAFLD were randomly assigned to receive either MI (4 g/day) or placebo supplements accompanied by dietary recommendations for 8 weeks. Oxidative stress biomarkers, nutritional status, as well as liver enzymes and obesity indices were assessed pre‐ and post‐intervention. A total of 48 patients completed the trial. Although anthropometric measures and obesity indices decreased significantly in both groups, the between‐group differences adjusted for confounders were non‐significant for these parameters, except for weight (p = .049); greater decrease was observed in the MI group. Iron and zinc intakes decreased significantly in both groups; however, between‐group differences were non‐significant at the end of the study. No significant between‐group differences were revealed for other antioxidant micronutrients at the study endpoint. Sense of hunger, feeling to eat, desire to eat sweet and fatty foods reduced significantly in both groups (p < .05), while the feeling of satiety increased significantly in the placebo group (p = .002). No significant between‐group differences were observed for these parameters, except for desire to eat fatty foods; a greater decrease was observed in the MI group (p = .034). Serum levels of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) significantly increased in both study groups (p < .05); however, the between‐group differences were non‐significant at the end of the study. Furthermore, the between‐group differences were non‐significant for other oxidative stress biomarkers, except for serum nitric oxide (NO) level; a greater decrease was observed in the MI group. MI supplementation could significantly improve weight, desire to eat fatty foods, serum levels of NO, as well as the aspartate aminotransferase (AST)/ALT ratio.
COST Action short term scientific mission – Alien plant species in Overseas Territories in Cyprus, 5th-18th March 2017

Two weeks were spent in March 2017 surveying alien species in Cyprus, building on work conducted during an earlier mission. The surveys were directed within four key areas: the Akrotiri Forest; phrygana within both the Akrotiri and Dhekelia Sovereign Base Areas (SBAs); and the Fassouri marsh.
Skip-RCNN: A Cost-Effective Multivariate Time Series Forecasting Model

Multivariate time series (MTS) forecasting is a crucial aspect in many classification and regression tasks. In recent years, deep learning models have become the mainstream framework for MTS forecasting. Among these deep learning methods, the transformer model has been proved particularly effective due to its ability to capture long- and short-term dependencies. However, the computational complexity of transformer-based models sets the obstacles for resource-constrained scenarios. To address this challenge, we propose a novel and efficient Skip-RCNN network that incorporates Skip-RNN and Skip-CNN modules to split the MTS into multiple frames with various time intervals. Thanks to the skipping process of Skip-RNN and Skip-CNN, the resulting network could process information with different reception field together and achieves better performance than the state-of-the-art network. We conducted comparative experiments using our proposed method and six baseline models on seven publicly available datasets. The results demonstrate that our model outperforms other baseline methods in accuracy under most conditions and surpasses the transformer-based model with 0.098 for a short interval and 0.068 for a long interval. Our Skip-RCNN network presents a promising approach to MTS forecasting that can meet the demands of resource-constrained prediction scenarios.
The association between intimate partner violence type and mental health in migrant women living in Spain: findings from a cross-sectional study

Introduction The association between intimate partner violence (IPV) and mental health has been clearly established in the literature, however the differential associations between IPV type and mental health are less well understood, particularly in migrant groups who are at increased risk of both IPV and poor mental health. Under-studied and emerging forms of violence such as economic abuse and technology-facilitated abuse must be considered alongside more traditionally studied forms of IPV in order to fully understand the complex nature of violence. This study makes a novel contribution to the literature by assessing multiple forms of IPV including psychological, physical, sexual, economic and technology-facilitated IPV and their relationship with symptoms of depression and anxiety in migrant women, disaggregated by IPV type. Methods A cross-sectional survey of migrant women living in the Valencian Community of Spain was conducted, to assess experiences of IPV and symptoms of mental health. Regression analysis from the Bayesian perspective was performed. Results 1,998 women accessed the survey. They had an average age of 37, and came predominantly from Europe (49%), namely Western Europe, followed by Latin America (38%). The majority had been in Spain between 1 and 3 years, and 80% had resident status. A total of 1,156 responded to questions on violence and mental health. Results showed that the prevalence of IPV was high, with 59% of women reporting any experience of violence. Economic abuse was the most commonly reported form of violence, and showed the strongest relationship with symptoms of depression. Sexual violence was the strongest predictor of anxiety. In both cases, in the presence of violence, the odds of having more severe symptoms of depression and anxiety increases by over 2.25. Technology-facilitated abuse was as detrimental to women’s mental health as face-to-face violence. Discussion The findings from the study are relevant to researchers, policy-makers and service providers. They highlight the complex nature of IPV experiences faced by migrant women and the importance of understanding how different types of IPV can impact migrant mental health, in order to ensure survivors receive adequate care.
Elements of Metamorphic Rocks (Marble and Quartzite) of Bukit Cinta Gunung Gajah, Klaten

Rocks such as metamorphic and sedimentary are natural constructions. Rocks in natural construction become elementary materials that form the landscape of the area, including in nature-based tourism objects, Bukit Cinta in Gunung Gajah, Klaten, Central Java. The purpose of this research is to describe the elements of rocks in the place. The study method used is descriptive qualitative method and tends to use analysis. The theoretical basis is used as a basic reference in preparing the study report to match the conditions in the field. In addition, the theoretical basis can also provide an overview of the background of the study as material for discussion. The ability to collect data is an important factor in determining the validation of the study conducted. Data collection in this case is obtained secondarily, namely through documents or literature studies. The results of the study found that there are 3 main supporters for the strong landscape in the tourist ojek of Gunung Gajah love hill. The three are metamorphic rocks observed there are fillic metamorphic relief, marble metamorphic rocks, and quartzite metamorphic rocks; limestone sedimentary rocks. Limestone can be used for building materials, road paving, and house foundations; and Diorte igneous rocks. Diorte igneous rocks can be used as home decoration.
FluGCF: A Fluent Dialogue Generation Model With Coherent Concept Entity Flow

The integration of external knowledge graphs into dialogue systems effectively mitigates the generation of generic and uninteresting responses. This approach, particularly the explicit modeling of conversation flows from related concept entities, facilitates the generation of semantically rich and informative responses. However, recent models guided by concept entity flows present two primary limitations: (1) a limited semantic understanding of the post message, which complicates the selection of highly relevant 1-hop concept entities, and (2) an inability to extract dynamic and diverse semantic relations between the post message and 2-hop concept entities. To address these issues, we introduce FluGCF, a novel model that fluently generates dialogues with coherent guidance from concept entity flows. FluGCF employs a ternary fusion to explicitly model multi-hop concept entity flows using a post-aware knowledge encoding mechanism. This mechanism learns semantic concept entity features from both word and sentence-level text features. Additionally, we design a corresponding ternary decoding mechanism that dynamically selects concept entities or words from the vocabulary to enhance fluency and diversity in dialogue generation. FluGCF, implemented in PyTorch, was extensively evaluated on a large-scale dataset, revealing that it surpasses baseline models, including the state-of-the-art knowledge-aware model ConceptFlow, by nearly 15% in terms of fluency. Furthermore, it demonstrated notable enhancements in coherence, diversity and informativeness.