Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Prenatal maternal psychological distress and fetal developmental trajectories: associations with infant temperament

Abstract Associations between prenatal maternal psychological distress and offspring developmental outcomes are well documented, yet relatively little research has examined links between maternal distress and development in utero, prior to postpartum influences. Fetal heart rate (FHR) parameters are established indices of central and autonomic nervous system maturation and function which demonstrate continuity with postnatal outcomes. This prospective, longitudinal study of 149 maternal–fetal pairs evaluated associations between prenatal maternal distress, FHR parameters, and dimensions of infant temperament. Women reported their symptoms of psychological distress at five prenatal visits, and FHR monitoring was conducted at the last three visits. Maternal report of infant temperament was collected at 3 and 6 months of age. Exposure to elevated prenatal maternal psychological distress was associated with higher late-gestation resting mean FHR (FHRM) among female but not male fetuses. Higher late-gestation FHRM was associated with lower infant orienting/regulation and with higher infant negative affectivity, and these associations did not differ by infant sex. A path analysis identified higher FHRM as one pathway by which elevated prenatal maternal distress was associated with lower orienting/regulation among female infants. Findings suggest that, for females, elevated maternal distress alters fetal development, with implications for postnatal function. Results also support the notion that, for both sexes, individual differences in regulation emerge prenatally and are maintained into infancy. Collectively, these findings underscore the utility of direct assessment of development in utero when examining if prenatal experiences are carried forward into postnatal life.
Procedures and Practices for Evaluating Thin‐Film Solar Cell Stability

During the last few decades, and in some cases only the last few years, novel thin‐film photovoltaic (PV) technologies such as dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSC), organic solar cells (OPV), and, more recently, perovskite‐based solar cells (PSC) have been growing in maturity with respect to device performance and device stability. Together with new material systems, novel device architectures have also been introduced. Both parameters will have an effect on the overall device stability. In order to improve the understanding of degradation effects and how they can be prevented, stress testing under different conditions is commonly applied. By careful combination of stress factors and thorough analysis of photovoltaic parameter decaying curves, an understanding of the underlying degradation pathways can be gained. With the help of standardized and accelerated stress tests, as described in the ISOS‐protocols, statements concerning application lifetimes can finally be made and compared among different labs. Once a photovoltaic technology has proven long lasting durability, the ultimate barrier for entering the commercial market are the IEC tests, taking a deeper look on overall safety and reliability, not only on durability. Here, the most prominent stress tests are reviewed, discussed and extended with respect to learning the most about photovoltaic device stability.
On the sandpile model of modified wheels II

Abstract We investigate the abelian sandpile group on modified wheels W ˆ n {\hat{W}}_{n} by using a variant of the dollar game as described in [N. L. Biggs, Chip-Firing and the critical group of a graph, J. Algebr. Comb. 9 (1999), 25–45]. The complete structure of the sandpile group on a class of graphs is given in this paper. In particular, it is shown that the sandpile group on W ˆ n {\hat{W}}_{n} is a direct product of two cyclic subgroups generated by some special configurations. More precisely, the sandpile group on W ˆ n {\hat{W}}_{n} is the direct product of two cyclic subgroups of order a n {a}_{n} and 3 a n 3{a}_{n} for n even and of order a n {a}_{n} and 2 a n 2{a}_{n} for n odd, respectively.
Implementing choice-based models of social service: The importance of involving people who use services in reform processes

Abstract This article focuses on the opportunities and challenges of introducing choice-based models of social services. Research has found that these models often provide better outcomes and are cost-effective, but the pace of their introduction is generally slow. There are often very deeply held assumptions about the capacity of the people using these services and the potential for change within the existing social service system. Using institutional and social movement theory, the authors seek to explain these barriers to change. Drawing on the experience of supporting the national roll-out of choice-based models in Ireland, the authors propose a number of strategies to accelerate the introduction of these types of models into social services. The authors find that one of the key ways to accelerate reform and reduce transition costs is design processes which have the voice of service users at the centre of the reform process.
Hindsight, insight and foresight: Some reflections on reforming the public service

Abstract This article starts off by presenting a brief history of public service reform initiatives in Ireland, at both central and local government level, from the foundation of the state to the present day. Reasons for the reforms and the main issues addressed are highlighted. Common themes are identified. These common themes provide the basis for identifying and examining five enduring reform challenges: building the capability of public servants; involving and empowering the public; coordination and collaboration; centralisation versus decentralisation; and policy and evidence. Drawing from insights from previous reform efforts, and particularly those following the financial crisis, suggestions are made as to what steps might be taken in the next phase of reform to deal with them.
Pathway Analysis to Determine Factors Contributing to Overall Quality Scores in Four Berry Crops

Abstract Fruit quality attributes are influenced by environmental, agronomic and genetic factors; both cultivars and growing conditions can vary substantially between UK production and imported fruit. This study aimed to record and dissect the most relevant fruit quality traits for berries imported into the UK in the winter months. Blackberry, blueberry, raspberry and strawberry fruit were imported from 11 countries into a Kent-based packhouse (UK) or purchased from major retailers between December 2018 and March 2019. Multiple fruit quality components were assessed for relative contribution towards a high “overall assessment” fruit quality score. It was found that strawberry and blackberry overall scores were affected by sweetness perception, whereas blueberry and raspberry organoleptics are more complex, with overall scores influenced by flavor perception. Multiple raspberry and strawberry fruit quality traits were found to be associated with genotypic differences, indicating a promising potential for genetic improvement through breeding. By contrast, the study findings suggest that there is less potential for genetic improvement in blueberry, and that the environment may have a large effect on blueberry fruit quality traits.
Mental Disorders Following Covid-19 Infection: A Systematic Review of Acute and Long-Term Psychiatric Manifestations and Associated Brain Changes

Abstract The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) primarily affects the respiratory tract, but sometimes also other organs, including the central nervous system (CNS). It is not well understood how the virus affects the CNS and how frequently it happens. Our review provides insight into the occurrence of mental disorders in Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. We also collected information about the biological basis of the susceptibility of brain cells to SARS-CoV-2 and its implication to psychiatric manifestations. We included 24 publications in our review, reporting psychiatric manifestations published between 31 December 2019 and 30 July 2020, using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis statement. Mental disorders occurred in up to one-fifth of patients during the acute phase of the infection. The most common disorders included anxiety-related disorders, mood-spectrum disorders, impaired consciousness, confusion, delirium and psychosis. The onset of psychiatric manifestations is not always preceded by respiratory symptoms, but occurs initially in COVID-19 patients. Long-term manifestations are mainly depression and post-traumatic stress symptoms. The obtained data allow the statement that direct infection of the CNS by SARS-CoV-2 could be responsible for the observed findings. To further investigate long-term psychiatric manifestations, randomised controlled studies must be initiated.
The Effect of Nebivolol on Office Blood Pressure of Blacks Residing in Sub-Saharan Africa (A Pilot Study)

Introduction: There is substantial clinical evidence that monotherapy with beta-blockers are less effective in reducing blood pressure among hypertensive Black patients compared to Whites. The highly selective beta-1 agents like nebivolol and bisoprolol have, however, been reported to be effective in reducing blood pressure in African Americans. However, results in African Americans cannot be extrapolated to native Africans because of genetic admixture and gene-environment interaction. There is, therefore, the need for us to generate data that are applicable to Africans residing in sub-Saharan Africa. We therefore decided to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of highly selective beta-1 agent nebivolol in hypertensive Black patients residing in sub-Saharan Africa. Materials and Methods: The nebivolol study was a multicenter, prospective, observational program among hypertensive patients with 4- and 8-week follow up which was conducted in 5 cities in Nigeria of Abuja, Calabar, Enugu, Oghara, and Port Harcourt. Dosages of nebivolol used in keeping with local prescribing information were 5 and 10 mg once daily each. The effectiveness of treatment was assessed by change from baseline in mean office systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and the proportion of patients achieving the therapeutic goal of <140/90 mmHg. Safety and tolerability of this medication were also assessed. Results: We report the results of the 140 patients studied. The mean age and body mass index were 46.9 ± 7.3 years and 22.3 ± 5.8 kg/m2, respectively, and 57.1% were female. Nebivolol reduced SBP and DBP by 7.6 and 6.6 mmHg, respectively, in 4 weeks, and by 11.1 and 8.0 mm Hg, respectively, in 8 weeks. Blood pressure control was achieved in 54.8% of the patients in 4 weeks and increased to 60.4% in 8 weeks. There was no change in metabolic profile between randomization and at 8 weeks, and erectile dysfunction occurred in 1.3% of the study population. Conclusions: Nebivolol 5 and 10 mg appear efficacious in Nigerian Africans with no negative metabolic effect and minimal side effect profile. Clinical Trial Registration: www.ClinicalTrials. gov, Study Identification: NCT 03598673.
Plaque Wall Distribution Pattern of the Atherosclerotic Middle Cerebral Artery Associates With the Circle of Willis Completeness

Objective: Investigating the relevance of the incomplete circle of Willis (COW) to the plaque wall distribution in the atherosclerotic middle cerebral arteries (MCAs) through utilizing high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR-MRI), and its potential clinical impact. Methods: This hospital-based study enrolled consecutive adult patients with acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack, who received a 3.0T Achieva MR system scanning. The COW completeness was evaluated on MR angiography imaging, including anterior (A) and posterior (P)-COW sections. The MCA plaque wall distribution was assessed on HR-MRI. The occurrence of perforator infarction was detected on diffusion-weighted imaging. Results: Among 87 patients (mean age = 62.39 ± 11.64 years old) with atherosclerotic plaques in the MCA M1 segments, the incomplete COW types were more prevalent than the complete COW type (incomplete P-COW, 83.9%; incomplete A-COW, 36.8%; complete COW, 8.1%). The incomplete A-COW had more inferior but fewer ventral plaques of MCA atherosclerosis than the complete A-COW, while the incomplete P-COW had fewer inferior MCA plaques than the complete P-COW. Moreover, symptomatic MCA plaques causing perforator infarctions were more likely to locate on the superior wall. Conclusion: Our findings suggested that the COW completeness could influence the vessel wall distribution of the MCA plaques, among which the superior plaques of symptomatic MCA atherosclerosis was associated with branch occlusive disease.
Evolution and Stagnation of Image Guidance for Surgery in the Lateral Skull: A Systematic Review 1989–2020

Objective: Despite three decades of pre-clinical and clinical research into image guidance solutions as a more accurate and less invasive alternative for instrument and anatomy localization, translation into routine clinical practice for surgery in the lateral skull has not yet happened. The aim of this review is to identify challenges that need to be solved in order to provide image guidance solutions that are safe and beneficial for use during lateral skull surgery and to synthesize factors that facilitate the development of such solutions. Methods: Literature search was conducted via PubMed using terms relating to image guidance and the lateral skull. Data extraction included the following variables: image guidance error, imaging resolution, image guidance system, tracking technology, registration method, study endpoints, clinical target application, and publication year. A subsequent search of FDA 510(k) database for identified image guidance systems and extraction of the year of approval, intended use, and indications for use was performed. The study objectives and endpoints were subdivided in three time phases and summarized. Furthermore, it was analyzed which factors correlated with the image guidance error. Factor values for which an error ≤0.5 mm (μerror + 3σerror) was measured in more than one study were identified and inspected for time trends. Results: A descriptive statistics-based summary of study objectives and findings separated in three time intervals is provided. The literature provides qualitative and quantitative evidence that image guidance systems must provide an accuracy ≤0.5 mm (μerror + 3σerror) for their safe and beneficial application during surgery in the lateral skull. Spatial tracking accuracy and precision and medical image resolution both correlate with the image guidance accuracy, and all of them improved over the years. Tracking technology with accuracy ≤0.05 mm, computed tomography imaging with slice thickness ≤0.2 mm, and registration based on bone-anchored titanium fiducials are components that provide a sufficient setting for the development of sufficiently accurate image guidance. Conclusion: Image guidance systems must reliably provide an accuracy ≤0.5 mm (μerror + 3σerror) for their safe and beneficial use during surgery in the lateral skull. Advances in tracking and imaging technology contribute to the improvement of accuracy, eventually enabling the development and wide-scale adoption of image guidance solutions that can be used safely and beneficially during lateral skull surgery.
Complement-Dependent Activity of CD20-Specific IgG Correlates With Bivalent Antigen Binding and C1q Binding Strength

Monoclonal antibodies directed against the CD20 surface antigen on B cells are widely used in the therapy of B cell malignancies. Upon administration, the antibodies bind to CD20 expressing B cells and induce their depletion via cell- and complement-dependent cytotoxicity or by induction of direct cell killing. The three antibodies currently most often used in the clinic are Rituximab (RTX), Ofatumumab (OFA) and Obinutuzumab (OBI). Even though these antibodies are all of the human IgG1 subclass, they have previously been described to vary considerably in the effector functions involved in therapeutic B cell depletion, especially in regards to complement activation. Whereas OFA is known to strongly induce complement-dependent cytotoxicity, OBI is described to be far less efficient. In contrast, the role of complement in RTX-induced B cell depletion is still under debate. Some of this dissent might come from the use of different in vitro systems for characterization of antibody effector functions. We therefore set out to systematically compare antibody as well as C1q binding and complement-activation by RTX, OFA and OBI on human B cell lines that differ in expression levels of CD20 and complement-regulatory proteins as well as human primary B cells. Applying real-time interaction analysis, we show that the overall strength of C1q binding to live target cells coated with antibodies positively correlated with the degree of bivalent binding for the antibodies to CD20. Kinetic analysis revealed that C1q exhibits two binding modes with distinct affinities and binding stabilities, with exact numbers varying both between antibodies and cell lines. Furthermore, complement-dependent cell killing by RTX and OBI was highly cell-line dependent, whereas the superior complement-dependent cytotoxicity by OFA was independent of the target B cells. All three antibodies were able to initiate deposition of C3b on the B cell surface, although to varying extent. This suggests that complement activation occurs but might not necessarily lead to induction of complement-dependent cytotoxicity. This activation could, however, initiate complement-dependent phagocytosis as an alternative mechanism of therapeutic B cell depletion.
An Electromyographic Analysis of the Effects of Cognitive Fatigue on Online and Anticipatory Action Control

Cognitive fatigue is a problem for the safety of critical systems (e.g., aircraft) as it can lead to accidents, especially during unexpected events. In order to determine the extent to which it disrupts adaptive capabilities, we evaluated its effect on online and anticipatory control. Despite numerous studies conducted to determine its effects, the exact mechanism(s) affected by fatigue remains to be clarified. In this study, we used distribution and electromyographic analysis to assess whether cognitive fatigue increases the capture of the incorrect automatic response or if it impairs its suppression (online control), and whether the conflict adaptation effect is reduced (anticipatory control). To this end, we evaluated the evolution of the performance over time during the Simon task, a classic conflict task that elicits incorrect automatic responses. To accentuate the presence of fatigue during the Simon task, two groups previously performed a dual-task with two different cognitive load levels to create two different levels of fatigue. The results revealed that time on task impaired online control by disrupting the capacity to suppress the incorrect response but leaving unaffected the expression of the automatic response. Furthermore, participants emphasized speed rather than accuracy with time on task, with in addition more fast guesses, suggesting that they opted for a less effortful response strategy. As the implementation of the suppression mechanism requires cognitive effort, the conjunction of these results suggests that the deficits observed may be due to disengagement of effort over time rather than reflecting an incapacity to make an effort.
Nutritional Implications of Trade-Offs Between Fresh and Processed Potato Products in the United Kingdom (UK)

The UK ranks eleven among world potato producing countries with annual per capita production of about 102 kg. Since 2007, the price of potatoes has increased by 44 per cent and UK households have shown a decreasing trend on their purchases of potatoes. At the same time, retailers and manufacturers have been introducing processed potato products, which also has affected the demand for fresh potatoes. This has shifted demand from fresh potatoes to processed potatoes suggesting that consumers substitute fresh potatoes for processed ones. However, the extent to which this affect individual weekly nutritional composition is unknown. The objective of this study is to estimate the nutritional trade-offs between fresh and processed potatoes consumed in the UK using home scanner panel dataset for Great Britain in 2018. Price and expenditure elasticities were estimated using the linearized version of the Exact Affine Stone Index (EASI) Demand System. Using estimated elasticities, we analyzed the implications of substituting fresh potatoes for processed potatoes on nutrient intake. The results, in terms of the degree of substitution between fresh potatoes and processed potato products, suggest that consumers consider new potatoes baby and baking potatoes as substitutes for mashed potatoes. Maris piper potatoes and new potatoes baby are substitutes for frozen chips and other potatoes whilst white old potatoes and other vegetables and salads are complements to frozen chips and other potatoes. Finally, price reductions in the processed potatoes will increase average weekly caloric intake as well as the intakes of saturated fat and sodium. The latter has implications for public health as they are the major causes of cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers.
Vascular Tissue Engineering: Polymers and Methodologies for Small Caliber Vascular Grafts

Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in the world. In severe cases, replacement or revascularization using vascular grafts are the treatment options. While several synthetic vascular grafts are clinically used with common approval for medium to large-caliber vessels, autologous vascular grafts are the only options clinically approved for small-caliber revascularizations. Autologous grafts have, however, some limitations in quantity and quality, and cause an invasiveness to patients when harvested. Therefore, the development of small-caliber synthetic vascular grafts (<5 mm) has been urged. Since small-caliber synthetic grafts made from the same materials as middle and large-caliber grafts have poor patency rates due to thrombus formation and intimal hyperplasia within the graft, newly innovative methodologies with vascular tissue engineering such as electrospinning, decellularization, lyophilization, and 3D printing, and novel polymers have been developed. This review article represents topics on the methodologies used in the development of scaffold-based vascular grafts and the polymers used in vitro and in vivo.
Ultrathin, Gas-Selective Polyimide Membranes Prepared from Multilayer Polyelectrolyte Films

Alternating electrostatic deposition of poly(amic acid) salts and poly (allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) followed by heat-induced imidization yields ultrathin, gas-selective polyimide membranes on porous alumina supports. These membranes are appealing because of the stability and selectivity of polyimides and the fact that alternating polyelectrolyte adsorption allows formation of ultrathin (as low as 35−40 nm), defect-free films that allow high flux. FTIR spectroscopy shows that heating of poly(amic acid)/PAH membranes at 250 °C for 2 h completely converts the poly(amic acid) to the corresponding polyimide, and scanning electron microscopy reveals uniform films with minimal deposition in substrate pores. Permeability coefficients and selectivities (O2/N2 up to 6.9 and CO2/CH4 up to 68) of three different imidized poly(amic acid)/PAH membranes are comparable to literature values for the corresponding bulk polyimides, provided that the ratio of poly(amic acid) to PAH in the film is high (9:1). Electrostatic.