Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Parents’ Physical Activity Level and the Motor Development Level and BMI of Their Children

All the variables that arise in family dynamics can have significant effects on the lives of children concerning their nutritional status and motor development. The objective of this study was to relate the PAL of parents to the level of motor development and the BMI of their children. A total of 198 subjects participated, with the age of the students ranging between 8 and 10 years. To measure the BMI, the norms for the nutritional evaluation of children and teenagers from 5 to 19 years were used; to identify the motor behaviors, the TGMD-2 Test was used; and to identify the level of physical activity of parents, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used. For the analysis, the independent samples t-test and the non-parametric Mann–Whitney U test (Wilcoxon) were used, and for the correlational analysis, Spearman’s rho test was applied. This study found no significant correlation between the activity level of parents and nutritional status variables (p = 0.162), or between the PAL variables of parents and the motor development of their children (p = 0.738). A parent’s level of physical activity does not have a direct relationship with the nutritional status or the motor development of their children.
Goal directed fluid removal with furosemide versus placebo in intensive care patients with fluid overload: A trial protocol for a randomised, blinded trial (GODIF trial)

Fluid overload is a risk factor for mortality in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Administration of loop diuretics is the predominant treatment of fluid overload, but evidence for its benefit is very uncertain when assessed in a systematic review of randomised clinical trials. The GODIF trial will assess the benefits and harms of goal directed fluid removal with furosemide versus placebo in ICU patients with fluid overload.
The Baltimore Urban Food Distribution (BUD) App: Study Protocol to Assess the Feasibility of a Food Systems Intervention

Low-income urban communities in the United States commonly lack ready access to healthy foods. This is due in part to a food distribution system that favors the provision of high-fat, high-sugar, high-sodium processed foods to small retail food stores, and impedes their healthier alternatives, such as fresh produce. The Baltimore Urban food Distribution (BUD) study is a multilevel, multicomponent systems intervention that aims to improve healthy food access in low-income neighborhoods of Baltimore, Maryland. The primary intervention is the BUD application (app), which uses the power of collective purchasing and delivery to affordably move foods from local producers and wholesalers to the city’s many corner stores. We will implement the BUD app in a sample of 38 corner stores, randomized to intervention and comparison. Extensive evaluation will be conducted at each level of the intervention to assess overall feasibility and effectiveness via mixed methods, including app usage data, and process and impact measures on suppliers, corner stores, and consumers. BUD represents one of the first attempts to implement an intervention that engages multiple levels of a local food system. We anticipate that the app will provide a financially viable alternative for Baltimore corner stores to increase their stocking and sales of healthier foods, subsequently increasing healthy food access and improving diet-related health outcomes for under-resourced consumers. The design of the intervention and the evaluation plan of the BUD project are documented here, including future steps for scale-up. Trial registration #: NCT05010018.
Subgrid scale modeling for large eddy simulation of buoyant turbulent flows

Ghaisas, Niranjan S. Ph.D., Purdue University, December 2013. Subgrid scale modeling for large eddy simulation of buoyant turbulent flows. Major Professor: Steven H. Frankel, School of Mechanical Engineering. Buoyancy effects due to small density differences commonly exist in turbulent fluid flows occurring in nature and in engineering applications. The large eddy simulation (LES) technique, which is being increasingly used for simulating buoyant turbulent flows, requires accurate modeling of the subgrid sclae (SGS) momentum and buoyancy fluxes. This thesis presents a series of LES and direct numerical simulation (DNS) studies towards a priori and a posteriori evaluation of existing SGS models, and development of new SGS models for the buoyancy flux. This thesis also presents the application of LES, in elucidating qualitative physical features and accurate measures of important quantities such as turbulence budgets, in a simplified flow configuration involving buoyancy effects on a turbulent flow. Three existing LES SGS models for buoyant turbulent flows are assessed by performing LES and comparing the results to DNS data found in the literature. The test problem for which the accuracy of these existing LES SGS models is studied is the flow in a three-dimensional thermal-driven cavity. In addition to serving as an excellent test case for SGS models, this problem demonstrates interesting phenomena related to the interaction between buoyancy and wall-bounded turbulence. Particularly, the effect of buoyancy on the vertical wall boundary layer is studied. One drawback of existing LES models is that the SGS diffusivity is dependent solely on the velocity field. A new model for the SGS diffusivity is developed, which is expected to represent the buoyancy flux more accurately. Improvements are also made to the dynamic procedure for determining the model coefficient by taking into account the contribution of the buoyant force.
NOTE On Active Contour Models and Balloons

puted, the maxima are extracted and then edges are linked together. Here we do it another way; we start with a continuous curve model and we try to localize it on the maxima of the gradient. We draw a simple curve close to the intended contours and let the action of the image forces push the curve the rest of the way. The final position corresponds to the equilibrium reached at the minimum of the model’s energy. The external forces are derived from the image data or imposed as constraints. Internal forces define the physical properties of the model. If this original idea is due to [l, 3, 41, our model presents the following interesting new features which can solve some of the problems encountered with the original snake method:
Behavior ratings of executive functions index multiple domains of psychopathology and school functioning in child psychiatric outpatients

Abstract Behavior rating scales of executive functions (EFs) are convenient and associate with academic and other outcomes; however, prior studies indicate limited correlations with psychometric tests of EFs. To better understand their potential for clinical utility, we examined the extent to which parent ratings on the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) related to psychopathology constructs and psychometric test scores in a sample of N = 692 psychiatric outpatients aged 8–17. Then, in a subsample of the youth (N = 261), we related the BRIEF, psychopathology constructs, and psychometric test scores to teacher ratings of school functioning. BRIEF scales were significantly associated with multiple types of psychopathology including ADHD, autism spectrum, mood, anxiety, conduct, oppositional defiant, and psychotic disorders. While the BRIEF showed limited associations with psychometric EF tests, its Global Executive Composite score explained additional variance in teacher-reported functioning beyond what was predicted by clinical diagnoses (additional explained variance of 9.9% in study skills) and psychometric tests (additional explained variance of 2.1% in learning problems and 4.5% in study skills). The Global Executive Composite was not significantly related to teacher-rated school functioning after psychiatric symptoms were accounted for. These findings support further investigation of the unique contribution of the BRIEF in clinical practice.
Assembler artifacts include misassembly because of unsafe unitigs and underassembly because of bidirected graphs

Recent assemblies by the T2T and VGP consortia have achieved significant accuracy but required a tremendous amount of effort and resources. More typical assembly efforts, on the other hand, still suffer both from misassemblies (joining sequences that should not be adjacent) and from underassemblies (not joining sequences that should be adjacent). To better understand the common algorithm-driven causes of these limitations, we investigated the unitig algorithm, which is a core algorithm at the heart of most assemblers. We prove that, contrary to popular belief, even when there are no sequencing errors, unitigs are not always safe (i.e., they are not guaranteed to be substrings of the sequenced genome). We also prove that the unitigs of a bidirected de Bruijn graph are different from those of a doubled de Bruijn graph and, contrary to our expectations, result in underassembly. Using experimental simulations, we then confirm that these two artifacts exist not only in theory but also in the output of widely used assemblers. In particular, when coverage is low, then even error-free data result in unsafe unitigs; also, unitigs may unnecessarily split palindromes in half if special care is not taken. To the best of our knowledge, this paper is the first to theoretically predict the existence of these assembler artifacts and confirm and measure the extent of their occurrence in practice.
High HIV prevalence and associated factors in Lesotho: Results from a population-based survey

Despite extensive global efforts, sub-Saharan Africa remains disproportionately affected by the HIV epidemic. This generalized epidemic can be seen in Lesotho which in 2014 the HIV prevalence rate of those aged 15–49 years was 24.6%, with and incidence of 1.9 new infections per 100-person-year exposures. To better understand the impact of Lesotho’s national HIV response and significant predictors associated with HIV infection, the Lesotho Population-based HIV Impact Assessment was conducted. This survey provided a nationally representative sample of individuals aged 15–59 years old in which participants were tested for HIV and given an individual questionnaire that included socio-demographic and behavioral risk questions. The association of factors between survey questions and HIV incident was assessed using logistic regression. Multivariate logistic regression models for men and women were constructed for each outcome using variables known to be or plausibly associated with recent or chronic infection. Overall annualized incidence among people aged 15–49 was 1.19% (95% CI 0.73–1.65) per year. The overall prevalence of HIV was 25.6% with women having significantly higher prevalence. Multiple variables, including decreased wealth status, lower education levels, marital status, condom use at first sex, and circumcision (men only) were identified as being significantly associated with HIV infection for both men and women. In combination with improving the awareness of HIV status, an increased focus is needed on AGYW and men 35–49 years old to prevent new infections. HIV education and prevention programs should focus heavily on younger age groups prior to and soon after sexual debut to prevent HIV transmission. The findings of the survey showed significant room for improvement in increasing awareness of HIV status and reinforcing the need for continued HIV prevention and treatment efforts in Lesotho to prevent new infections.
Incidence, risk factors, outcomes, and clinical management of BK viremia in the modern era of kidney transplantation

BK viremia is endemic among kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Incidence, risk factors, outcomes, and clinical management of detectable versus high BK viremia have not been considered previously in KTR in the modern era. This observational study examined KTR transplanted between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2016. Any BK viral load in the serum constituted detectable BK viremia and ≥103 copies/ml constituted high viremia. Among 1193 KTRs, the cumulative probability of developing detectable and high BK viremia within 2 years posttransplant were 27.8% and 19.6%, respectively. Significant risk factors for detectable BK viremia included recipient age (HR 1.02 [95% CI: 1.01, 1.03]) and donor age (HR 1.01 [95% CI: 1.00, 1.02]). Recipient age also predicted high BK viremia (HR 1.02 [95% CI: 1.01, 1.03]), whereas White race (HR 0.70 [95% CI: 0.52, 0.95]), nondepleting induction therapy (HR 0.61 [95% CI: 0.42, 0.89]), and delayed graft function (HR 0.61 [95% CI: 0.42, 0.88]) were protective. Mean estimated glomerular filtration rates were 4.28 ml/min/1.72 m2 (95% CI: 2.71, 5.84) lower with detectable BK viremia. Although low viral load was usually not acted upon at first presentation, antiproliferative dose reductions were the most common initial management. BK viremia remains a common early complication in a modern cohort of KTRs. These findings highlight the benefit of early BKV monitoring in addition to intensive clinical management. Clinical responses beyond first positive BK viremia tests, and their implications for graft outcomes, merit further investigation.
The colours of low surface brightness galaxies in the Fornax cluster: automated galaxy surface photometry- VI.

Les couleurs B-R photographiques sont determinees pour 182 galaxies a faible brillance de surface dans l'aire de l'amas Fornax, incluant un sous-ensemble de 94 galaxies avec une brillance de surface centrale extrapolee plus faible que 22.5 Bμ et qui sont des membres tres probables de l'amas.
Fracture behavior of discontinuous fiber-reinforced composite inlay-retained fixed partial denture before and after fatigue aging.

PURPOSE To evaluate the fracture behavior of inlay-retained fixed partial dentures (IRFPDs) made of experimental short fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC) computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) block before and after cyclic fatigue aging. METHODS Five groups (n=20/group) of three-unit posterior IRFPDs were fabricated. The first and second groups were CAD/CAM fabricated from experimental SFRC blocks or lithium-disilicate (IPS e.max CAD, IVOCLAR) materials, the third group comprised a three-dimensional-printed composite (Temp PRINT, GC), and the fourth and fifth groups comprised conventional laboratory flowable composite (Gradia Plus, GC) and commercial flowable SFRC (everX Flow, GC), respectively. All IRFPDs were luted into a metal jig with adhesive dual-cure resin cement (RelyX Ultimate, 3M ESPE). Half the IRFPDs per group (n=10) were subjected to fatigue aging for 10,000 cycles. The remaining half were statically loaded until fracture without fatigue aging. The load was applied vertically between triangular ridges of the buccal and lingual cusps. The fracture mode was visually examined using optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were statistically analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey's HSD test. RESULTS ANOVA revealed that IRFPDs made of experimental SFRC CAD/CAM had the highest (p<0.05) load-bearing capacity before (2624±463 N) and after (2775±297 N) aging among all groups. Cyclic fatigue aging decreased the load-bearing capacity (p>0.05) of all tested prostheses, except for the experimental SFRC CAD/CAM and conventional laboratory composite IRFPDs (p>0.05). SEM images showed the ability of discontinuous short fibers in the experimental SFRC CAD/CAM composite to redirect and hinder crack propagation. CONCLUSION CAD/CAM-fabricated IRFPDs made of experimental SFRC blocks showed promising performance in clinical testing in terms of fracture behavior.
Magnetic resonance imaging has a limited role in investigating odynophagia if examination is normal: A binary logistic regression analysis of 484 patients presenting to a tertiary head and neck clinic

Investigation of head and neck cancers places a significant burden on the National Health Service and effective resource allocation is of perpetual importance. Existing risk calculators are designed to stratify the likelihood of underlying malignancy according to symptoms, but are less relevant in secondary care as they do not integrate clinical examination findings (e.g. naso‐endoscopy). We looked to evaluate the utility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in investigating patients with unilateral odynophagia and a normal clinical examination.
Ti2C-TiO2 MXene Nanocomposite-Based High-Efficiency Non-Enzymatic Glucose Sensing Platform for Diabetes Monitoring

Diabetes is a major health challenge, and it is linked to a number of serious health issues, including cardiovascular disease (heart attack and stroke), diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage or failure), and birth defects. The detection of glucose has a direct and significant clinical importance in the management of diabetes. Herein, we demonstrate the application of in-situ synthesized Ti2C-TiO2 MXene nanocomposite for high throughput non-enzymatic electrochemical sensing of glucose. The nanocomposite was synthesized by controlled oxidation of Ti2C-MXene nanosheets using H2O2 at room temperature. The oxidation results in the opening up of Ti2C-MXene nanosheets and the formation of TiO2 nanocrystals on their surfaces as revealed in microscopic and spectroscopic analysis. Nanocomposite exhibited considerably high electrochemical response than parent Ti2C MXene, and hence utilized as a novel electrode material for enzyme-free sensitive and specific detection of glucose. Developed nanocomposite-based non-enzymatic glucose sensor (NEGS) displays a wide linearity range (0.1 µM-200 µM, R2 = 0.992), high sensitivity of 75.32 μA mM−1 cm−2, a low limit of detection (0.12 μM) and a rapid response time (~3s). NEGS has further shown a high level of repeatability and selectivity for glucose in serum spiked samples. The unveiled excellent sensing performance of NEGS is credited to synergistically improved electrochemical response of Ti2C MXene and TiO2 nanoparticles. All of these attributes highlight the potential of MXene nanocomposite as a next-generation NEGS for on the spot mass screening of diabetic patients.
Development of an advance directive ’communication tool’ relevant for patients with advanced cancer in six European countries: Experiences from the ACTION trial

Background The ACTION trial evaluated the effect of a modified version of the Respecting Choices´ advance care planning programme in patients with advanced cancer in six European countries. For this purpose, an advance directive acceptable for all six ACTION countries to be used for documenting the wishes and preferences of patients and as a communication tool between patients, their caregivers and healthcare staff, was needed. Aim To describe the development of a multinational cancer specific advance directive, the ´My Preferences form´, which was first based on the 2005 Wisconsin ‘Physician Orders of Life Sustaining Treatment´ Form, to be used within the ACTION trial. Methods Framework analysis of all textual data produced by members of the international project team during the development of the ACTION advance directives (e.g. drafts, emails, meeting minutes…). Setting/participants ACTION consortium members (N = 28) with input from clinicians from participating hospitals (N = 13) and ´facilitators´ (N = 8) who were going to deliver the intervention. Results Ten versions of the ACTION advance directive, the ´My Preferences form´, were developed and circulated within the ACTION consortium. Extensive modifications took place; removal, addition, modification of themes and modification of clinical to lay terminology. The result was a thematically comprehensive advance directive to be used as a communication tool across the six European countries within the ACTION trial. Conclusion This article shows the complex task of developing an advance directive suitable for cancer patients from six European countries; a process which required the resolution of several cross cultural differences in law, ethics, philosophy and practice. Our hope is that this paper can contribute to a deeper conceptual understanding of advance directives, their role in supporting decision making among patients approaching the end of life and be an inspiration to others wishing to develop a disease-specific advance directive or a standardised multinational advance directive.
Angiography derived assessment of the coronary microcirculation: is it ready for prime time?

ABSTRACT Introduction Non-obstructive coronary arteries (NOCA) are present in 39.7% to 62.4% of patients who undergo elective angiography. Coronary microcirculation (<400 µm) is not visible on angiography therefore functional assessment, invasive or noninvasive plays a prior role to help provide a more personalized diagnosis of angina. Area covered In this review, we revisit the pathophysiology, clinical importance, and invasive assessment of the coronary microcirculation, and discuss angiography-derived indices of microvascular resistance. A comprehensive literature review over four decades is also undertaken. Expert opinion The coronary microvasculature plays an important role in flow autoregulation and metabolic regulation. Invasive assessment of microvascular resistance is a validated modality with independent prognostic value, nevertheless, its routine application is hampered by the requirement of intravascular instrumentation and hyperemic agents. The angiography-derived index of microvascular resistance has emerged as a promising surrogate in pilot studies, however, more data are needed to validate and compare the diagnostic and prognostic accuracy of different equations as well as to illustrate the relationship between angiography-derived parameters for epicardial coronary arteries and those for the microvasculature.
LDL retention time in plasma can be -based on causation- estimated by the lipid composition of LDL and other lipoproteins

Introduction Information on LDL’s dynamic behaviour of LDL (i.e. production rate and fractional catabolic rate) are of interest if pathologies, lipid-lowering strategies or LDL-metabolism itself are investigated. Determination of these rates is costly and elaborate. Here we studied the interrelationship of LDL mass, its composition and other lipoproteins. Based on this data, we deducted information about LDL’s dynamic behaviour. Methods Lipoprotein profiles of n = 236 participants are evaluated. Plasma was separated by sequential ultracentrifugation into VLDL, IDL, LDL and HDL. Additionally, LDL and HDL were separated into subfractions. Stepwise multiple linear regressions were used to study LDL’s ApoB mass and lipid composition. Relying on these results and on causation, we constructed a mathematical model to estimate LDL’s retention time. Results The ApoB mass in LDL correlated best among all measured parameters (including corresponding lipid compositions but using no LDL-associated parameters) with the cholesterol ester content in IDL. TG/CE ratios in LDL’s subfractions were strongly correlated with the corresponding ratios in IDL and HDL. The constructed mathematical model links the TG/CE ratio of LDL and HDL to LDL’s ApoB concentration and enables a good estimate of LDL’s retention time in plasma. Discussion Relying on our statistic evaluations, we assume that i) the production of nascent LDL via IDL as well as ii) LDL’s prolonged retention are mapped by the TG/CE ratio in LDL subfractions. HDL’s TG/CE ratio is associated with the change in LDL’s TG/CE ratio during its retention in plasma. Our mathematical model uses this information and enables–by relying on causation- a good estimation of LDL’s retention time.