Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D deficiency and anthropometric indicators of adiposity in school-age children: a prospective study.

BACKGROUND Cross-sectional studies have indicated that vitamin D serostatus is inversely associated with adiposity. It is unknown whether vitamin D deficiency is a risk factor for the development of adiposity in children. OBJECTIVE We investigated the associations between vitamin D serostatus and changes in body mass index (BMI; in kg/m²), skinfold-thickness ratio (subscapular-to-triceps), waist circumference, and height in a longitudinal study in children from Bogota, Colombia. DESIGN We quantified plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations in baseline samples of a randomly selected group of 479 schoolchildren aged 5-12 y and classified vitamin D status as deficient [25(OH)D concentrations < 50 nmol/L], insufficient [25(OH)D concentrations ≥ 50 and < 75 nmol/L], or sufficient [25(OH)D concentrations ≥ 75 nmol/L]. We measured anthropometric variables annually for a median of 30 mo. We estimated the average change in each anthropometric indicator according to baseline vitamin D status by using multivariate mixed linear regression models. RESULTS Vitamin D-deficient children had an adjusted 0.1/y greater change in BMI than did vitamin D-sufficient children (P for trend = 0.05). Similarly, vitamin D-deficient children had a 0.03/y (95% CI: 0.01, 0.05/y) greater change in subscapular-to-triceps skinfold-thickness ratio and a 0.8 cm/y (95% CI: 0.1, 1.6 cm/y) greater change in waist circumference than did vitamin D-sufficient children. Vitamin D deficiency was related to slower linear growth in girls (-0.6 cm/y, P = 0.04) but not in boys (0.3 cm/y, P = 0.34); however, an interaction with sex was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION Vitamin D serostatus was inversely associated with the development of adiposity in school-age children.
MESSAGE EXCHANGES FOR WEB SERVICE-BASED MAPPING SERVICES

The Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) [1] defines a number of standards, both for data models and for online services, that has been widely adopted in the Geographical Information System (GIS) community. This has lead to a number of software development efforts, online data archives, and application communities. The emergence of Web Service technique overcomes the shortcoming of traditional Distributed Object technique and provides the interoperable capability of cross-platform and cross-language in distributed net environment. GIS services will be implemented more extensively by using Web Service approach. A spatial data infrastructure lets many GIS vendors share data stores and applications in a distributed environment. GIS basically involves the integration of data and services from multiple sources from different vendors. The Web services architecture establishes a standard interconnection rules between services and information clients that nicely support the dynamic integration of data, which is the key to creating a spatial data infrastructure. By introducing Web Services, distributed GIS services from different vendors can be dynamically integrated into the GIS applications using the interoperable standard communication protocols of the Web Services. To be able to benefit from the Web Services in the GIS applications, all the service providers should provide their services as Web Services. General acceptance from the vendors increases the interoperability and enhances the GIS applications. We find that the OGC standards are very compatible with Web Services standards, although they are not technically implemented this way. To be able to benefit from Web Services technologies we have built a common architecture to convert any OGC GIS services to Web Services and applied this to our current WMS project.
Biogenesis, identification, and function of exonic circular RNAs

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) arise during post‐transcriptional processes, in which a single‐stranded RNA molecule forms a circle through covalent binding. Previously, circRNA products were often regarded to be splicing intermediates, by‐products, or products of aberrant splicing. But recently, rapid advances in high‐throughput RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) for global investigation of nonco‐linear (NCL) RNAs, which comprised sequence segments that are topologically inconsistent with the reference genome, leads to renewed interest in this type of NCL RNA (i.e., circRNA), especially exonic circRNAs (ecircRNAs). Although the biogenesis and function of ecircRNAs are mostly unknown, some ecircRNAs are abundant, highly expressed, or evolutionarily conserved. Some ecircRNAs have been shown to affect microRNA regulation, and probably play roles in regulating parental gene transcription, cell proliferation, and RNA‐binding proteins, indicating their functional potential for development as diagnostic tools. To date, thousands of ecircRNAs have been identified in multiple tissues/cell types from diverse species, through analyses of RNA‐seq data. However, the detection of ecircRNA candidates involves several major challenges, including discrimination between ecircRNAs and other types of NCL RNAs (e.g., trans‐spliced RNAs and genetic rearrangements); removal of sequencing errors, alignment errors, and in vitro artifacts; and the reconciliation of heterogeneous results arising from the use of different bioinformatics methods or sequencing data generated under different treatments. Such challenges may severely hamper the understanding of ecircRNAs. Herein, we review the biogenesis, identification, properties, and function of ecircRNAs, and discuss some unanswered questions regarding ecircRNAs. We also evaluate the accuracy (in terms of sensitivity and precision) of some well‐known circRNA‐detecting methods. WIREs RNA 2015, 6:563–579. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1294
A conceptual framework for incorporating cognitive principles into geographical database representation

The advancement of GIS data models to allow the effective utilization of very large heterogeneous geographic databases requires a new approach that incorporates models of human cognition. The ultimate goal is to provide a cooperative human-computer environment for spatial analysis. We describe the pyramid framework as an example of this new approach within the context of some important aspects of how humans conceptually store spatial information. The proposed framework provides the means to create multiple structural interpretations of observed geographic data and the ability to build knowledge hierarchies through the application of data mining and other statistical techniques.
Body image screening for cancer patients undergoing reconstructive surgery

Body image is a critical issue for cancer patients undergoing reconstructive surgery, as they can experience disfigurement and functional impairment. Distress related to appearance changes can lead to various psychosocial difficulties, and patients are often reluctant to discuss these issues with their healthcare team. Our goals were to design and evaluate a screening tool to aid providers in identifying patients who may benefit from referral for specialized psychosocial care to treat body image concerns.
The Gaza Disengagement: Five Years Later

Joel Peters is Associate Professor in the School of Public and International Affairs at Virginia Tech, specializing in the field of global security and conflict resolution. Prior to that, he was the founding Director of the Centre for the Study of European Politics and Society (CSEPS) at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. He is the author of several books, his most recent, co-authored with Dr. Sharon Pardo, is Uneasy Neighbors: Israel and the European Union.
Specification of a gas station using a formalism integrating formal datatypes within state diagrams

In this paper, we propose a generic approach for integrating data types expressed using formal specification languages within state diagrams. Our main motivations are (i) to be able to model dynamic aspects of complex systems with graphical user-friendly languages, and (ii) to be able to specify in a formal way and at a high abstraction level the data types pertaining to the static aspects of such systems. The dynamic aspects may be expressed using state diagrams (such as UML or SDL) and the static aspects may be expressed using either algebraic specifications or state oriented specifications (such as Z or B). Our approach introduces a flexible use of data types. It also may take into account different semantics for the state diagrams. We herein focus on a case study to demonstrate the pragmatism of our approach.
H∞ integrated fault estimation and fault tolerant control of discrete-time piecewise linear systems

In this paper we consider the problem of fault estimation and accommodation for discrete time piecewise linear systems. A robust fault estimator is designed to estimate the fault such that the estimation error converges to zero and H∞ performance of the fault estimation is minimized. Then, the estimate of fault is used to compensate for the effect of the fault. Hence, using the estimate of fault, a fault tolerant controller using a piecewise linear static output feedback is designed such that it stabilizes the system and provides an upper bound on the H∞ performance of the faulty system. Sufficient conditions for the existence of robust fault estimator and fault tolerant controller are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Upper bounds on the H∞ performance can be minimized by solving convex optimization problems with linear matrix inequality constraints. The efficiency of the method is demonstrated by means of a numerical example.
Mechanisms for virus-induced liver disease: tumor necrosis factor-mediated pathology independent of natural killer and T cells during murine cytomegalovirus infection

The contribution of endogenous NK cells and cytokines to virus-induced liver pathology was evaluated during murine cytomegalovirus infections of mice. In immunocompetent C57BL/6 mice, the virus induced a self-limited liver disease characterized by hepatitis, with focal inflammation, and large grossly visible subcapsular necrotic foci. The inflammatory foci were most numerous and contained the greatest number of cells 3 days after infection; they colocalized with areas of viral antigen expression. The largest number of necrotic foci was found 2 days after infection. Overall hepatic damage, assessed as increased expression of liver enzymes in serum, accompanied the development of inflammatory and necrotic foci. Experiments with neutralizing antibodies demonstrated that although virus-induced tumor necrosis factor (TNF) can have antiviral effects, it also mediated significant liver pathology. TNF was required for development of hepatic necrotic foci and increased levels of liver enzymes in serum but not for increased numbers of inflammatory foci. The necrotic foci and liver enzyme indications of pathology occurred independently of NK and T cells, because mice rendered NK-cell deficient by treatment with antibodies, T- and B-cell-deficient Rag-/- mice, and NK- and T-cell-deficient E26 mice all manifested both parameters of disease. Development of necrotic foci and maximally increased levels of liver enzymes in serum also were TNF dependent in NK-cell-deficient mice. Moreover, in the immunodeficient E26 mice, virus-induced liver disease was progressive, with eventual death of the host, and neutralization of TNF significantly increased longevity. These results establish conditions separating hepatitis from significant liver damage and demonstrate a cytokine-mediated component to viral pathogenesis.
Improving the realism of deterministic multi-strain models: implications for modelling influenza A

Understanding the interaction between epidemiological and evolutionary dynamics for antigenically variable pathogens remains a challenge, particularly if analytical insight is wanted. In particular, while a variety of relatively complex simulation models have reproduced the evolutionary dynamics of influenza, simpler models have given less satisfying descriptions of the patterns seen in data. Here, we develop a set of relatively simple deterministic models of the transmission dynamics of multi-strain pathogens which give increased biological realism compared with past work. We allow the intensity of cross-immunity generated against one strain given exposure to a different strain to depend on the extent of genetic difference between the strains. We show that the dynamics of this model are determined by the interplay of parameters defining the cross-immune response function and can include fully symmetric equilibria, self-organized strain structures, regular periodic and chaotic regimes. We then extend the model by incorporating transient strain-transcending immunity that acts as a density-dependent mechanism to lower overall infection prevalence and thus pathogen diversity. We conclude that while some aspects of the evolution of influenza can be captured by deterministic models, overall, the description obtainable using a purely deterministic framework is unsatisfactory, implying that stochasticity of strain generation (via mutation) and extinction needs to be captured to appropriately capture influenza dynamics.
SRC kinase inhibition with saracatinib limits the development of osteolytic bone disease in multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM)-associated osteolytic bone disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in MM patients and the development of new therapeutic strategies is of great interest. The proto-oncogene SRC is an attractive target for such a strategy. In the current study, we investigated the effect of treatment with the SRC inhibitor saracatinib (AZD0530) on osteoclast and osteoblast differentiation and function, and on the development of MM and its associated bone disease in the 5TGM.1 and 5T2MM murine MM models. In vitro data showed an inhibitory effect of saracatinib on osteoclast differentiation, polarization and resorptive function. In osteoblasts, collagen deposition and matrix mineralization were affected by saracatinib. MM cell proliferation and tumor burden remained unaltered following saracatinib treatment and we could not detect any synergistic effects with drugs that are part of standard care in MM. We observed a marked reduction of bone loss after treatment of MM-bearing mice with saracatinib as reflected by a restoration of trabecular bone parameters to levels observed in naive control mice. Histomorphometric analyses support that this occurs through an inhibition of bone resorption. In conclusion, these data further establish SRC inhibition as a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of MM-associated osteolytic bone disease.
Cholinergic circuit modulation through differential recruitment of neocortical interneuron types during behaviour

Acetylcholine is a crucial neuromodulator for attention, learning and memory. Release of acetylcholine in primary sensory cortex enhances processing of sensory stimuli, and many in vitro studies have pinpointed cellular mechanisms that could mediate this effect. In contrast, how cholinergic modulation shapes the function of intact circuits during behaviour is only beginning to emerge. Here we review recent data on the recruitment of identified interneuron types in neocortex by cholinergic signalling, obtained with a combination of genetic targeting of cell types, two‐photon imaging and optogenetics. These results suggest that acetylcholine release during basal forebrain stimulation, and during physiological recruitment of the basal forebrain, can strongly and rapidly influence the firing of neocortical interneurons. In contrast to the traditional view of neuromodulation as a relatively slow process, cholinergic signalling can thus rapidly convey time‐locked information to neocortex about the behavioural state of the animal and the occurrence of salient sensory stimuli. Importantly, these effects strongly depend on interneuron type, and different interneuron types in turn control distinct aspects of circuit function. One prominent effect of phasic acetylcholine release is disinhibition of pyramidal neurons, which can facilitate sensory processing and associative learning.
Abnormalities of Thymic Stroma may Contribute to Immune Dysregulation in Murine Models of Leaky Severe Combined Immunodeficiency

Lymphostromal cross-talk in the thymus is essential to allow generation of a diversified repertoire of T lymphocytes and to prevent autoimmunity by self-reactive T cells. Hypomorphic mutations in genes that control T cell development have been associated with immunodeficiency and immune dysregulation both in humans and in mice. We have studied T cell development and thymic stroma architecture and maturation in two mouse models of leaky severe combined immune deficiency, carrying hypomorphic mutations in rag1 and lig4 genes. Defective T cell development was associated with abnormalities of thymic architecture that predominantly affect the thymic medulla, with reduction of the pool of mature medullary thymic epithelial cells (mTECs). While the ability of mTECs to express autoimmune regulator (Aire) is preserved in mutant mice, the frequency of mature mTECs expressing Aire and tissue-specific antigens is severely reduced. Similarly, the ability of CD4+ T cells to differentiate into Foxp3+ natural regulatory T cells is preserved in rag1 and lig4 mutant mice, but their number is greatly reduced. These data indicate that hypomorphic defects in T cell development may cause defective lymphostromal cross-talk and impinge on thymic stromal cells maturation, and thus favor immune dysregulation.
Coverage by smoke‐free workplace policies by race/ethnicity and health outcomes

Purpose – The present research has three goals: to examine the prevalence of smoke‐free workplace policies; to examine how coverage by a smoke‐free workplace policy differs among racial/ethnic groups; and to examine the impact of smoke‐free workplace policy (SFWP) coverage on health outcomes.Design/methodology/approach – The research uses secondary analysis of data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) from 1998‐2006.Findings – It was found that SFWP coverage is below government goals – especially for Hispanic workers and that SFWP coverage was associated with health outcomes.Research limitations/implications – The relatively slow progress in coverage by smoke‐free workplace policies during the last eight years suggests the possibility that a ceiling has been reached in smoke‐free workplace policy coverage. Limitations include factors that might negatively influence SFWP reporting (e.g. lack of knowledge about SFWP; language barriers), availability of data after 2006, and a cross‐sec.
The allure of the waterpipe: a narrative review of factors affecting the epidemic rise in waterpipe smoking among young persons globally

Objective The objective of this narrative review is to highlight the determinants of the epidemic rise in waterpipe tobacco smoking (WTS) among youth globally. The Ecological Model of Health Promotion (EMHP) was the guiding framework for the review. Data sources The following electronic databases were searched: Cochrane library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science and CINAHL Plus with Full Text. Search terms included waterpipe and its many variant terms. Study selection Articles were included if they were published between 1990 and 2014, were in English, were available in full text and included the age group 10–29 years. Data extraction Articles which analysed determinants of WTS at any of the levels of the EMHP were retained regardless of methodological rigour: 131 articles are included. Articles were coded in a standard template that abstracted methods as well as results. Data synthesis The review found that methodologies used to assess determinants of WTS among youth were often conventional and lacked rigor: 3/4 of the studies were cross-sectional surveys and most enrolled non-representative samples. Within the framework, the review identified determinants of WTS at the intrapersonal, interpersonal, organisational, community and policy levels. Conclusions The review suggests potential interventions to control WTS among youth, with emphasis on creative utilisation of social media, and tobacco control policies that include the specificities of WTS. The review further suggests the need for rigorous qualitative work to better contextualise determinants, and prospective observational and experimental studies that track and manipulate them to assess their viability as intervention targets.
Glide performance and aerodynamics of non-equilibrium glides in northern flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus)

Gliding is an efficient form of travel found in every major group of terrestrial vertebrates. Gliding is often modelled in equilibrium, where aerodynamic forces exactly balance body weight resulting in constant velocity. Although the equilibrium model is relevant for long-distance gliding, such as soaring by birds, it may not be realistic for shorter distances between trees. To understand the aerodynamics of inter-tree gliding, we used direct observation and mathematical modelling. We used videography (60–125 fps) to track and reconstruct the three-dimensional trajectories of northern flying squirrels (Glaucomys sabrinus) in nature. From their trajectories, we calculated velocities, aerodynamic forces and force coefficients. We determined that flying squirrels do not glide at equilibrium, and instead demonstrate continuously changing velocities, forces and force coefficients, and generate more lift than needed to balance body weight. We compared observed glide performance with mathematical simulations that use constant force coefficients, a characteristic of equilibrium glides. Simulations with varying force coefficients, such as those of live squirrels, demonstrated better whole-glide performance compared with the theoretical equilibrium state. Using results from both the observed glides and the simulation, we describe the mechanics and execution of inter-tree glides, and then discuss how gliding behaviour may relate to the evolution of flapping flight.
A Device-Independent Evaluation of Carbonyl Emissions from Heated Electronic Cigarette Solvents

Objectives To investigate how the two main electronic (e-) cigarette solvents—propylene glycol (PG) and glycerol (GL)—modulate the formation of toxic volatile carbonyl compounds under precisely controlled temperatures in the absence of nicotine and flavor additives. Methods PG, GL, PG:GL = 1:1 (wt/wt) mixture, and two commercial e-cigarette liquids were vaporized in a stainless steel, tubular reactor in flowing air ranging up to 318°C to simulate e-cigarette vaping. Aerosols were collected and analyzed to quantify the amount of volatile carbonyls produced with each of the five e-liquids. Results Significant amounts of formaldehyde and acetaldehyde were detected at reactor temperatures ≥215°C for both PG and GL. Acrolein was observed only in e-liquids containing GL when reactor temperatures exceeded 270°C. At 318°C, 2.03±0.80 μg of formaldehyde, 2.35±0.87 μg of acetaldehyde, and a trace amount of acetone were generated per milligram of PG; at the same temperature, 21.1±3.80 μg of formaldehyde, 2.40±0.99 μg of acetaldehyde, and 0.80±0.50 μg of acrolein were detected per milligram of GL. Conclusions We developed a device-independent test method to investigate carbonyl emissions from different e-cigarette liquids under precisely controlled temperatures. PG and GL were identified to be the main sources of toxic carbonyl compounds from e-cigarette use. GL produced much more formaldehyde than PG. Besides formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, measurable amounts of acrolein were also detected at ≥270°C but only when GL was present in the e-liquid. At 215°C, the estimated daily exposure to formaldehyde from e-cigarettes, exceeded United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) acceptable limits, which emphasized the need to further examine the potential cancer and non-cancer health risks associated with e-cigarette use.