Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Understanding the Impact of Child, Intervention, and Family Factors on Developmental Trajectories of Children with Hearing Loss at Preschool Age: Design of the AChild Study

Children with hearing loss and their families represent a large variety with regard to their auditory, medical, psychological, and family resource characteristics. Despite recent advances, developmental outcomes are still below average, with a significant proportion of variety remaining unexplained. Furthermore, there is a lack of studies including the whole diversity of children with hearing loss. The AChild study (Austrian Children with Hearing Impairment—Longitudinal Databank) uses an epidemiological longitudinal design including all children living in Upper and Lower Austria with a permanent uni- or bilateral hearing loss below the age of 6 years, irrespective of additional disabilities, family language, and family resources. The demographic characteristics of the first 126 children enrolled in the study showed that about half of the children are either children with additional disabilities (31%) and/or children not growing up with the majority language (31.7%) that are usually excluded from comprehensive longitudinal studies. AChild aims for a characterization of the total population of young children with hearing loss including developmental outcomes. Another goal is the identification of early predictors of developmental trajectories and family outcomes. In addition to child-related predictors the examination of family–child transactions malleable by family-centred early intervention is of particular interest. The study is designed as participatory including parent representation atall stages. Measures have been chosen, following other large population-based studies in order to gain comparability and to ensure international data pooling.
What Is New in the Clinical Management of Low Back Pain: A Narrative Review

Low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent condition associated with disability. Treating patients with LBP becomes further complicated by the potential presence of underlying conditions, such as cancer or traumatic injury, or biopsychosocial aspects. LBP usually has a neuropathic component that must be assessed and treated appropriately. Pharmacological management of LBP requires a thorough knowledge of the available agents and the mechanisms of the LBP. Although there are effective pharmacological treatments for LBP, it is important to consider safety issues. Fixed-dose combination products may be helpful, as they can reduce opioid consumption without sacrificing analgesic benefits. Neuromodulation is an important and sometimes overlooked treatment option for LBP and may be appropriate for chronic LBP requiring long-term treatment. Imaging studies support neuroplastic changes in the brain as a result of neuromodulation. Interventional approaches to chronic LBP are numerous and must be appropriately selected based on the individual patient. Evidence in support of epidural injections for LBP is strong for short-term pain control but moderate to limited for long-term relief. Rehabilitation for LBP can be an important element of long-term care, and new forms of rehabilitation programs are being developed using telemedicine. A variety of new and established treatments are available for patients with LBP, and clinicians and patients may benefit from emerging new treatment modalities.
DEVELOPMENT AND OPERATION OF ACTIVE DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS: RESULTS OF CIGRE C6.11 WORKING GROUP

The results of the CIGRE Working Group C6.11 “Development and operation of Active Distribution Networks” (ADNs) are presented. The outcomes of the Working Group were to: (i) provide a shared, global definition of ADNs; (ii) review the actual status of implementation of ADNs worldwide; and (iii) make recommendations to relevant stakeholders in the electrical sector for the transition towards more ADNs.
Macular phototoxicity after corneal crosslinking

Introduction: Keratoconus is a progressive degenerative corneal disease of variable severity. Its management includes medical and surgical treatment. Corneal crosslinking (CXL) is being increasingly used to stabilize the condition. Macular phototoxicity is a well-known side effect of light exposure; however, its incidence after treatment with riboflavin and UV light is unknown. This study reported the clinical features of a patient with macular phototoxicity after UV-A exposure and described the structural and angiographic retinal changes observed in the patient. Patient, Clinical Findings, and Diagnosis: A 37-year-old man with keratoconus underwent corneal refractive surgery (topography-guided custom ablation with accelerated and high-fluence CXL). Postoperatively, he had decreased vision in the operated eye. Ophthalmoscopy, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, and fluorescein angiography revealed retinal pigment epithelial changes, ellipsoid zone disruption, and window defects, respectively. The patient was diagnosed with macular phototoxicity. The corrected distance visual acuity stabilized at 20/100 after 6 months. Conclusions: Macular phototoxicity may occur after UV-A exposure during CXL. The use of accelerated and high-fluence protocols might have contributed to its occurrence in this patient.
SCD2: Secure Content Delivery and Deduplication With Multiple Content Providers in Information Centric Networking

As one of the promising next generation network architectures, information centric networking (ICN) is highly anticipated to improve the bandwidth usage of the Internet and reduce duplicate traffic. Since contents in ICN are disseminated in the whole network, ICN is much more vulnerable and the issue of how to deliver contents securely has been intensively discussed. However, the scalability of the existing schemes is limited. A scalable scheme is expected to be able to achieve fine-grained access control and at the same time also support multiple content providers scenario with efficient key management at user side. Besides, different content providers may publish some identical contents and these contents may be cached in the same intermediate routers, which causes high data redundancy and in turn exerts an adverse impact on the performance of ICN. In this paper, we propose a Secure Content Delivery and Deduplication scheme, called SCD2, to achieve secure and efficient fine-grained access control in ICN with multiple content providers. We first propose a scalable key-policy attribute-based encryption (SKP-ABE) to provide fine-grained access control and allow different attribute authorities to share some public attributes to simplify the key management. Furthermore, based on SKP-ABE, we design a simple but effective mechanism to conduct content deduplication. Finally, we implement a prototype of SCD2 to test its performance and compare it with some existing schemes. The results show that SCD2 has lower storage overhead, a higher degree of deduplication, and better retrieval efficiency.
A Novel Self-Adaptive Mixed-Variable Multiobjective Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm in Mobile Edge Computing

Mobile edge computing (MEC) provides physical resources closer to end users, becoming a good complement to cloud computing. The booming MEC brings many multiobjective optimization problems. The paper proposes a multiobjective optimization (MOO) algorithm called SAMOACOMV, which provides a new choice for solving MOO problems of MEC. We improve the ACOMV algorithm that is only suitable for solving mixed-variable single-objective optimization (SOO) problems and propose a MOACOMV algorithm suitable for solving mixed-variable MOO problems. And aiming at the dependence of MOACOMV algorithm performance on parameter setting, we proposed the SAMOACOMV algorithm using a self-adaptive parameter setting scheme. Furthermore, the paper also designs some mixed-variable MOO benchmark problems for the purpose to test and compare the performance of the SAMOACOMV algorithm. The experiments indicate that the SAMOACOMV algorithm has excellent comprehensive performance and is an ideal choice for solving mixed-variable MOO problems.
Left Atrial Strain Helps Identifying the Cardioembolic Risk in Transient Ischemic Attacks Patients with Silent Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Purpose Patients with transient ischemic attacks often present asymptomatic and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Since atrial fibrillation initiates in the atria, we aimed to identify whether the abnormalities in left atrial structure and function could identify the cardioembolic etiology of the transient ischemic attacks in patients at sinus rhythm. Patients and Methods A total of 190 patients over 50 years old with sinus rhythm discharged after a transient ischemic attack were included in the study and divided into two groups according to the presence (group I) or absence (group II) of documented paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The documentation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation was based on the examination of medical registers. Cardiac ultrasound assessment was performed at a minimum of 14 days after the onset of the transient ischemic attack, to avoid assessment of atrial stunning. Results The group I patients were older, more frequent women, with a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack and a higher CHA2DS2-VASc score. They also presented larger left atrial volumes, lower left atrial emptying fraction, and significantly impaired left atrial deformation patterns. Multivariate logistic regression identified three variables that were independently associated with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: age, left atrial reservoir strain, and left atrial emptying fraction (P < 0.0001). The cut-off levels for the variables were age > 55 years, reservoir strain < −17%, and emptying fraction < 51%. Conclusion The present study demonstrates that the LA strain is independently associated with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in transient ischemic attack patients and might be of great help in identifying their cardioembolic etiology and preventing subsequent strokes by the initiation of anticoagulant therapy.
Assessing the Adoption of Mobile Technology for Commerce by Generation Z

E-commerce has gained momentum with the rapid development of technology, and nowadays, we are permanently connected, with constant access to information and a wide range of products. Not only does a desktop computer offer us this possibility, but the latest-generation tablets and mobile phones create a broad framework. This paper investigates Romanian consumers’ attitudes towards adopting mobile technology for commerce (m-commerce), taking into account its development in the last few years, especially among younger generations. The main objectives of the research are to identify the preference for m-commerce use among Generation Z, establish the ways and the devices used by Gen Z individuals to inform about the products and services and order them, and analyze the factors influencing the use of m-commerce applications. The research methodology consists of conducting an empirical analysis using a distributed survey among youngsters from Generation Z in Romania. We used descriptive statistics, such as the analysis of frequency and the mean of variables, artificial neural network analysis (ANN), and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), to validate the hypotheses. The research results indicate a solid inclination for m-commerce among Generation Z. The results are helpful for companies that can shape their marketing strategies to boost their sales using m-commerce channels among the younger population.
Performances analysis of permanent magnet linear synchronous machine using hybrid method combing FEM and analytical solution

To overcome deficiency in performances analysis of permanent magnet linear synchronous machine(PMLSM) using numerical method and analytical method,hybrid method combined with finite element method(FEM) and analytical solution are adopted because fast and accurate analysis of the field is necessary for permanent magnet linear synchronous motor(PMLSM). The field of PMLSM is composed of many zones,in which the FEM and analytical solution method are respectively adopted for the different characteristics of the zones.There is free current density in the zone of the secondary and air gap,the analytical formation of the zone is attained by the analytical solution method.In order to consider the effects of the slots and teeth,the end half-filled slots,and the primary armature excitation source on the field,the FEM is adopted to attain the field of the primary zone.The correlation functions are built by the first and secondary boundary conditions of combing FEM and analytical solution,and the total field is attained.Electromotive force without load and magnetic link with the mover position are attained,and the performances of PMLSM applied SPWM-VI was profoundly researched.The new method is proposed to measure PMLSM Electromotive force.By the comparison with simulation and experiment results,the method used to analyze the machine performances correctness and rapidity is verified.
Crop classification based on the spectrotemporal signature derived from vegetation indices and accumulated temperature

ABSTRACT Due to differences in environmental factors, the phenology of the same crop is different every year, causing divergent performances of the classifier built by spectral or time-series features Here, we proposed a random forest classifier (RFC) based on an asymmetric double S curve model fitted by accumulated temperature (AT) and Vegetation Index (VI), which can be applied in different years without ground samples. We built AT and VI time series from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer 8-day composites of land surface temperatures and Sentinel-2 and Landsat-8, respectively. The RFC was trained by characteristics from the asymmetric double S curve. We prepared RFC by ground samples of 2018 and 2019 and then mapped crops of the same region in 2017. Results indicated that, compared with diverse VI-AT series, the overall accuracy based on universal normalized vegetation index (UNVI) was the best of all (2017: F1 = 0.91, 2018: F1 = 0.92, 2019: F1 = 0.91) and better than that based on the UNVI-TIME series (2017: F1 = 0.84, 2018: F1 = 0.81, 2019: F1 = 0.88). It proved that the classification features from the VI-AT series have smaller intra-class differences in 2017, 2018, and 2019.
Evaluation of oral changes and modification of the oral microbiome in patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit

Introduction: Chlorhexidine oral decontamination protocols are the usual care offered to patients in Intensive Care Units (ICU). The admission evaluation performed by dentists is absent from the routine, leading the medical team to overlook oral diseases, as they are rarely the main cause of hospitalization and the common absence of pain or other symptoms. Healthy or not, the oral cavity has an extensive reservoir of pathogens and can spread systemic infections and modify or worsen the general health of hospitalized patients. Methods: We conducted a prospective longitudinal study in the general ICU of Hospital Sírio Libanês, in São Paulo. Oral health was assessed at admission, three, and seven’s day of hospitalization by clinically (bedside oral examination (BOE), plaque and mucosa index (MPS), presence of infectious foci) and microbiologically indexes(identification of microorganisms in saliva and biofilm). Results: Sixty patients were initially included, with 70% of oral care dependency, and 39.47% were admitted and remained with oral infectious foci throughout the study. 38 patientes clinically followed presented improvement in BOE and MPS indices. With no statistically significant differences between saliva and biofilm during the hospital stay, 27 patients had a prevalence of Candida spp, ESKAPE (E. faecalis, S.aureus, K.pneumoniae, A.baumannii, P.mirabilis, and Enterobacter spp.) and pathogens associated with nosocomial pneumonia (S.aureus, K.pneumoniae, P.aeruginosa, E.cloacae, P.mirabilis, Streptococcus spp, E.coli, H.influenza, and S.pneumoniae). Conclusion: In addition to nursing care, oral assessment at hospital admission and dental follow-up can align patients' oral hygiene protocols with their real systemic needs.
Evaluating the Co-design of an Age-Friendly, Rural, Multidisciplinary Primary Care Model: A Study Protocol

In the context of increased rates of frailty and chronic disease among older people, there is a need to develop age-friendly, integrated primary care models that place the older person at the centre of their care. However, there is little evidence about how age-friendly integrated care frameworks that are sensitive to the challenges of rural regions can be developed. This protocol paper outlines a study that will examine how the use of an age-friendly care framework (the Indigo 4Ms Framework) within a co-design process can facilitate the development of models of integrated care for rural older people within the Upper Hume region (Victoria, Australia). A co-design team will be assembled, which will include older people and individuals from local health, aged care, and community organisations. Process and outcome evaluation of the co-design activities will be undertaken to determine (1) the processes, activities and outputs that facilitate or hinder the co-design of a 4Ms integrated approach, and (2) how the use of the Indigo 4Ms Framework within a co-design process contributes to more integrated working practices. This protocol contributes to the development of a field of study examining how rural health and aged care services can become more age-friendly, with an emphasis on the role of co-design in developing integrated approaches to health care for older adults.
The time-dependent response of a two-basin ocean to a sudden surface temperature change

Building on previous work using single-basin models, we here explore the time-dependent response of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) to a sudden global temperature change in a two-basin ocean-ice model. We find that the previously identified mechanisms remain qualitatively useful to explain the transient and the long term time-mean responses of the AMOC in our simulations. Specifically, we find an initial weakening of the AMOC in response to warming (and vice versa for cooling), controlled by the mid-depth meridional temperature contrast across the Atlantic basin. The long-term mean response instead is controlled primarily by changes in the abyssal stratification within the basin. In contrast to previous studies we find that for small-amplitude surface temperature changes, the equilibrium AMOC is almost unchanged, as the abyssal stratification remains similar due to a substantial compensation between the effects of salinity and temperature changes. The temperature-driven stratification change results from the differential warming/cooling between North Atlantic Deep Water and Antarctic Bottom Water, while the salinity change is driven by changes in Antarctic sea ice formation. Another distinct feature of our simulations is the emergence of AMOC variability in the much colder and much warmer climates. We discuss how this variability is related to variations in deep-ocean heat content, surface salinity, and sea ice in the deep convective regions, both in the North Atlantic and Southern Ocean, and its potential relevance to past and future climates.
A Method for Determining the Shape Similarity of Complex Three-Dimensional Structures to Aid Decay Restoration and Digitization Error Correction

This paper introduces a new method for determining the shape similarity of complex three-dimensional (3D) mesh structures based on extracting a vector of important vertices, ordered according to a matrix of their most important geometrical and topological features. The correlation of ordered matrix vectors is combined with perceptual definition of salient regions in order to aid detection, distinguishing, measurement and restoration of real degradation and digitization errors. The case study is the digital 3D structure of the Camino Degli Angeli, in the Urbino’s Ducal Palace, acquired by the structure from motion (SfM) technique. In order to obtain an accurate, featured representation of the matching shape, the strong mesh processing computations are performed over the mesh surface while preserving real shape and geometric structure. In addition to perceptually based feature ranking, the new theoretical approach for ranking the evaluation criteria by employing neural networks (NNs) has been proposed to reduce the probability of deleting shape points, subject to optimization. Numerical analysis and simulations in combination with the developed virtual reality (VR) application serve as an assurance to restoration specialists providing visual and feature-based comparison of damaged parts with correct similar examples. The procedure also distinguishes mesh irregularities resulting from the photogrammetry process.
Molecular Signatures of Tumour and Its Microenvironment for Precise Quantitative Diagnosis of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: An International Multi-Cohort Diagnostic Validation Study

Simple Summary Incisional tissue biopsy is highly invasive, but it remains the current practice for oral cancer diagnosis through histopathological interpretation. To reduce biopsy invasiveness without compromising diagnosis, we pioneered a multigene RT-qPCR method for cancer detection using only a tiny 1 mm3 minimally invasive biopsy. Here we presented international multicohort validation of our second-generation method which involved new genes from matrix/stroma and immune regulations enabling sensitive, quantitative and precise oral cancer detection in otherwise ambiguous oral lesions. Abstract Background: Heterogeneity in oral potentially malignant disorder (OPMD) poses a problem for accurate prognosis that impacts on treatment strategy and patient outcome. A holistic assessment based on gene expression signatures from both the tumour cells and their microenvironment is necessary to provide a more precise prognostic assessment than just tumour cell signatures alone. Methods: We reformulated our previously established multigene qPCR test, quantitative Malignancy Index Diagnostic System (qMIDS) with new genes involved in matrix/stroma and immune modulation of the tumour microenvironment. An algorithm calculates and converts a panel of 16 gene mRNA expression levels into a qMIDS index to quantify risk of malignancy for each sample. Results: The new qMIDSV2 assay was validated in a UK oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cohort (n = 282) of margin and tumour core samples demonstrating significantly better diagnostic performance (AUC = 0.945) compared to previous qMIDSV1 (AUC = 0.759). Performance of qMIDSV2 were independently validated in Chinese (n = 35; AUC = 0.928) and Indian (n = 95; AUC = 0.932) OSCC cohorts. Further, 5-year retrospective analysis on an Indian dysplastic lesion cohort (n = 30) showed that qMIDSV2 was able to significantly differentiate between lesions without transformation and those with malignant transformation. Conclusions: This study validated a novel multi-gene qPCR test on a total of 535 tissue specimens from UK, China and India, demonstrating a rapid minimally invasive method that has a potential application for dysplasia risk stratification. Further study is required to establish if qMIDSV2 could be used to improve OPMD patient management, guide treatment strategy and reduce oral cancer burden.