Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Brain Potentials during Memory Retrieval Provide Neurophysiological Support for the Distinction between Conscious Recollection and Priming

Event-related brain potentials were recorded from subjects as they attempted to identify words displayed tachistoscopically. Words that had also been presented a few minutes earlier in a different context were identified more often than were words that had not been presented before. This priming effect was observed for words initially seen in an imagery task requiring size estimations as well as for words initially seen in an orthographic task requiring letter counting. Unlike priming, recall and recognition were much better for words repeated from the imagery task than from the orthographic task. Brain potentials elicited during word identification also differed as a function of task. Based on these differences, a potential from 500 to 800 msec was interpreted as an index of recollection processes. Earlier potentials may have indexed processing related to priming. These effects thus provide measures of the hypothetical processes underlying memory performance and demonstrate that recollection and priming are associated with distinct neural events.
TDD-based mobile communication solutions for high-speed railway scenarios

Mobile communication solutions for highspeed railway scenarios aim at providing seamless coverage, high system capacity and a high data rate for end users, which in turn face the challenges of Doppler frequency shift, penetration loss, mobility management and system capacity planning. Because the scarcity of frequency resources and increasing wireless broadband requirements have become very serious problems worldwide, increasing attention has been focused on time-division duplexing based technology, on which we focus in this article. Time-division synchronous code-division multiple access based and time-division Long Term Evolution based solutions are introduced with appropriate technology analysis. The experimental results of TD-SCDMA-based solutions in the Shanghai maglev high-speed network environment and the simulation results of TD-LTE-based solutions are presented. Finally, to improve performance, we discuss an enhanced solution based on mobile relays with performance evaluation, which is considered as a more comprehensive solution for high-speed railway scenarios.
Some Studies on Air Temperature and Humidity inside Pinus roxburghii and Dendrocalamus strictus Plantations at New Forest

A preliminary study of the extremes of weather elements, (temperature and humidity) inside the forest plantations of chir ( Pinus roxburghii ) and bamboo ( Dendrocalamus strictus ) has been made, observations being made at different heights from ground surface to five feet. It was observed that both the air temperature and humidity were modified by the sheltering as well as the blanketing effects of vegetation cover. It was also observed that fair weather conditions induced the maximum differences in the temperature behaviour.
Effect of paraquat and metoxychlor on antioxidant enzymes in frog Rana esculenta L. liver

We examined the influence of a sublethal dose of paraquat and metoxychlor on the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase in the liver of the edible frog Rana esculenta. The experiments have shown that after 6 days of injections with paraquat or metoxychlor, the enzyme that decomposes reactive oxygen species is glutathione peroxidase, whereas after 12 days of the treatment with the pesticides, the enzyme responsible for detoxification of hydrogen peroxide is catalase. Superoxide dismutase activity in the liver after the paraquat or metoxychlor treatment, both for 6 and 12 days, seems to be sufficient to protect the liver against the superoxide anion, which can be produced during the microsomal biotransformation of pesticides.
Fluorescent probes for conformational states of proteins. IV. The pepsinogen-pepsin conversion.

Abstract The conversion of pepsinogen to pepsin has been followed by means of the fluorescent probe, 2-p-toluidinonaphthalene-6-sulfonate (TNS). It was found that the change in fluorescence accurately reflects the formation of active pepsin. The data on the binding of TNS to pepsinogen and pepsin suggest that the environment surrounding the fluorophore is altered during the conversion. One of the peptides released from the zymogen enhanced TNS-pepsin fluorescence and inhibited enzyme activity in the pH range 4.5 to 5.5. Fluorescence titration data showed that the observed binding phenomenon satisfied a mechanism of noncompetitive interaction between an enzyme and 2 smaller molecules, TNS and the inhibitor peptide which modified TNS-pepsin fluorescence. Dissociation constants of the pepsin-peptide complex, evaluated by measuring the increase in TNS fluorescence, ranged from 3 to 5 x 10-4 m in the pH range 4.5 to 5.5. Studies of the fluorescence intensity as a function of pH for the above systems suggested that the dissociation of the peptide from pepsin is essentially complete below pH 3.6. These findings suggest that binding of the activation peptide to pepsin alters the enzyme conformation near the TNS binding site.
A Parsimonious Mixture of Gaussian Trees Model for Oversampling in Imbalanced and Multimodal Time-Series Classification

We propose a novel framework of using a parsimonious statistical model, known as mixture of Gaussian trees, for modeling the possibly multimodal minority class to solve the problem of imbalanced time-series classification. By exploiting the fact that close-by time points are highly correlated due to smoothness of the time-series, our model significantly reduces the number of covariance parameters to be estimated from O(d2) to O(Ld), where L is the number of mixture components and d is the dimensionality. Thus, our model is particularly effective for modeling high-dimensional time-series with limited number of instances in the minority positive class. In addition, the computational complexity for learning the model is only of the order O(Ln+d2) where n+ is the number of positively labeled samples. We conduct extensive classification experiments based on several well-known time-series data sets (both singleand multimodal) by first randomly generating synthetic instances from our learned mixture model to correct the imbalance. We then compare our results with several state-of-the-art oversampling techniques and the results demonstrate that when our proposed model is used in oversampling, the same support vector machines classifier achieves much better classification accuracy across the range of data sets. In fact, the proposed method achieves the best average performance 30 times out of 36 multimodal data sets according to the F-value metric. Our results are also highly competitive compared with nonoversampling-based classifiers for dealing with imbalanced time-series data sets.
Standardized Total Tract Digestibility of Phosphorus in Copra Expellers, Palm Kernel Expellers, and Cassava Root Fed to Growing Pigs

An experiment was conducted to determine the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) and standardized total tract digestibility (STTD) of phosphorus (P) in copra expellers (CE), palm kernel expellers (PKE), and cassava root (CR). Eight barrows (initial BW of 40.0 kg, SD = 4.5) were individually housed in metabolism crates. A replicated 4×3 incomplete Latin square design was employed involving 4 dietary treatments, 3 periods, and 8 animals. Three experimental diets contained 40% CE, PKE or CR as the only source of P. A P-free diet mainly based on corn starch, sucrose, and gelatin was also prepared to estimate the basal endogenous loss of P. The marker-to-marker method was used for fecal collection. Values for the ATTD of P in the CE and PKE were greater than in the CR (46.0 and 39.7 vs −14.0%; p<0.05). However, the STTD of P did not differ greatly among the test ingredients (56.5, 49.0, and 43.2% in the CE, PKE, and CR, respectively). In conclusion, the ATTD of P values in CE and PKE were greater than that in CR, but the STTD of P did not differ greatly among CE, PKE, and CR.
Development of the Brazilian Anti Schistosomiasis Vaccine Based on the Recombinant Fatty Acid Binding Protein Sm14 Plus GLA-SE Adjuvant

Data herein reported and discussed refer to vaccination with the recombinant fatty acid binding protein (FABP) family member of the schistosomes, called Sm14. This antigen was discovered and developed under a Brazilian platform led by the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, from the Health Ministry in Brazil, and was assessed for safety and immunogenicity in healthy volunteers. This paper reviews past and recent outcomes of developmental phases of the Sm14-based anti schistosomiasis vaccine addressed to, ultimately, impact transmission of the second most prevalent parasitic endemic disease worldwide.
Metabolome-Proteome Differentiation Coupled to Microbial Divergence

ABSTRACT Tandem high-throughput proteomics and metabolomics were employed to functionally characterize natural microbial biofilm communities. Distinct molecular signatures exist for each analyzed sample. Deconvolution of the high-resolution molecular data demonstrates that identified proteins and detected metabolites exhibit organism-specific correlation patterns. These patterns are reflective of the functional differentiation of two bacterial species that share the same genus and that co-occur in the sampled microbial communities. Our analyses indicate that the two species have similar niche breadths and are not in strong competition with one another. IMPORTANCE Natural microbial assemblages represent dynamic consortia that exhibit extensive complexity at all levels. In the present study, we demonstrate that correlations between protein and metabolite abundances allow the deconvolution of complex molecular data sets into shared and organism-specific contingents. We demonstrate that evolutionary divergence is associated with the restructuring of cellular metabolic networks, which in turn allows bacterial species to occupy distinct ecological niches. The apparent lack of interspecific competition may explain the extensive population-level genetic heterogeneity observed extensively within microbial communities. The reported findings have broad implications for the in-depth investigation of the ecology and evolution of distinct microbial community members and for leveraging the solution of cryptic metabolic processes in the future. Natural microbial assemblages represent dynamic consortia that exhibit extensive complexity at all levels. In the present study, we demonstrate that correlations between protein and metabolite abundances allow the deconvolution of complex molecular data sets into shared and organism-specific contingents. We demonstrate that evolutionary divergence is associated with the restructuring of cellular metabolic networks, which in turn allows bacterial species to occupy distinct ecological niches. The apparent lack of interspecific competition may explain the extensive population-level genetic heterogeneity observed extensively within microbial communities. The reported findings have broad implications for the in-depth investigation of the ecology and evolution of distinct microbial community members and for leveraging the solution of cryptic metabolic processes in the future.
Effects of a Targeted Multimodal Exercise Program Incorporating High‐Speed Power Training on Falls and Fracture Risk Factors in Older Adults: A Community‐Based Randomized Controlled Trial

Multimodal exercise programs incorporating traditional progressive resistance training (PRT), weight‐bearing impact training and/or balance training are recommended to reduce risk factors for falls and fracture. However, muscle power, or the ability to produce force rapidly, has emerged as a more crucial variable to functional decline than muscle strength or mass. The aim of this 12‐month community‐based randomized controlled trial, termed Osteo‐cise: Strong Bones for Life, was to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of a multimodal exercise program incorporating high‐velocity (HV)‐PRT, combined with an osteoporosis education and behavioral change program, on bone mineral density (BMD), body composition, muscle strength and functional muscle performance in older adults. Falls incidence was evaluated as a secondary outcome. A total of 162 older adults (mean ± SD; 67 ± 6 years) with risk factors for falls and/or low BMD were randomized to the Osteo‐cise program (n = 81) or a control group (n = 81). Exercise consisted of fitness center‐based HV‐PRT, weight‐bearing impact and challenging balance/mobility activities performed three times weekly. After 12 months, the Osteo‐cise program led to modest but significant net gains in femoral neck and lumbar spine BMD (1.0% to 1.1%, p < 0.05), muscle strength (10% to 13%, p < 0.05), functional muscle power (Timed Stair Climb, 5%, p < 0.05) and dynamic balance (Four Square Step Test 6%, p < 0.01; Sit‐to‐Stand, 16%, p < 0.001) relative to controls. There was no effect on total body lean mass or mobility (timed‐up‐and‐go), and no difference in falls rate (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.22; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.72–2.04). In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the Osteo‐cise: Strong Bones for Life community‐based, multimodal exercise program represents an effective approach to improve multiple musculoskeletal and functional performance measures in older adults with risk factors for falls and/or low BMD. Although this did not translate into a reduction in the rate of falls, further large‐scale trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy of this multimodal approach on reducing falls and fracture. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Is prophylactic colectomy indicated in patients with MYH‐associated polyposis?

Objectives The MYH gene has recently been associated with multiple colorectal tumours. It participates in the DNA base‐excision‐repair, avoiding mutations in other genes, namely the APC and Ki‐ras. Recently, biallelic MYH mutations have been described in patients with attenuated polyposis and in 7.5% with classic polyposis and no detectable APC mutation. The aim of this study was to analyse the incidence of germ‐line MYH mutations in selected Portuguese families recorded in a hereditary tumour registry and to evaluate the risk of colorectal cancer in this syndrome.
Fusulines from the Central Asturian Coal? eld (Pennsylvanian, Cantabrian Zone, Spain) and their signi? cance for biostratigraphic correlation

The Central Asturian Coalfield of the Cantabrian Zone (NW Spain) exposes a Moscovian (Middle Pennsylvanian) succession, up to 5000-m thick, which records stratigraphically signi? cant terrestrial and marine fossils such as fossil ? ora and fusulines. The present paper focuses on the fusuline-bearing limestones of this succession, which cover a time span ranging from latest Bashkirian to early Myachkovian. 36 fusuline species are described and illustrated, among them the new species Schubertella luisorum Villa. This study reveals that the composition of the Kashirian to early Myachkovian fusuline assemblages is similar to that of the Beedeina-dominated assemblages of the Donets Basin, which were interpreted by Khodjanyazova et al. (2014) as occurring during early high-stands. In parallel with this, the absence of species representing the Fusulinella-dominated assemblages of the later authors is observed, while their Hemifusulina-dominated assemblages are replaced in the Central Asturian Coalfield by monospecific associations of Hemifusulina. Biostratigraphic data inferred from these microfaunas allowed us to assign an age to several informal stratigraphic intervals known as ‘mining stratal packages’ and to propose a tentative correlation with some relevant horizons of the Donets Basin.
Object play in infants with autism: methodological issues in retrospective video analysis.

OBJECTIVES Using a taxonomy of object play, this study describes methodological issues in using retrospective video analysis and computer-based coding as a research tool for early identification of autism. METHOD Home videos of 32 infants with autism (n= 11), developmental delay (n= 10), and typical development (n= 11) were edited and analyzed for duration and highest level of object play in four hierarchical categories (exploratory, relational, functional, symbolic) using The Observer 3.0. RESULTS The three groups had similar levels of engagement with objects, and no statistically significant differences in duration of exploratory play. Higher levels of play were rarely evident at 9-12 months, however, the highest level achieved (functional play) was apparent only in the typical group. CONCLUSION This study provides the first naturalistic investigation of object play skills in infants with autism ages 9-12 months. It also demonstrates feasibility for using computer-based coding technology within the context of retrospective video analysis methods. Duration of exploratory play was not a discriminating feature of autism at this early age.
“Asthma Isn’t an Excuse, It’s Just a Condition”: Youths’ Perceptions of Physical Activity and Screen Time

Objective. During puberty, physical activity patterns begin to decline, while sedentary time increases. These changes may be confounded by asthma. The purpose of this study was to gain insight into youths’ perceptions of screen time and physical activity by asthma status. Methods. Four interviews and seven focus groups with boys only or girls only were conducted with 15- to 16-year-old youth enrolled in either of two asthma-focused cohorts in Manitoba, Canada. Using a semi-structured interview guide, youth were asked about their perceptions of physical activity and screen time such as texting, watching television, electronic games, and Internet chatting and about their perceptions of the influence that asthma has on these behaviors. Data were analyzed using thematic coding. Results. Two themes were common to youth with asthma and without asthma: (1) sports are an integral part of youths’ lives and (2) screen time is important to youth. Two themes were identified among youth with asthma only: (1) physical activity used to be more difficult and (2) being active and living with asthma. Youth with asthma described physical activity as neither a hindrance to activity nor an excuse for inactivity, although asthma may still present some challenges. They also acknowledged their reliance on screen time for communication and for entertainment. Conclusions. Youth with asthma believe that physical activity has become increasingly easier as they become older and that being active with asthma, despite its challenges, is a key part of their lives.
Three Brick genes have distinct functions in a common pathway promoting polarized cell division and cell morphogenesis in the maize leaf epidermis

We have taken a genetic approach to investigating cytoskeleton-dependent mechanisms governing cell morphogenesis in the maize leaf epidermis. Previously, we showed that the Brick1 (Brk1) gene is required for the formation of epidermal cell lobes as well as for properly polarized divisions of stomatal subsidiary mother cells, and encodes an 8 kDa protein highly conserved in plants and animals. Here, we show that two additional Brick genes, Brk2 and Brk3, are involved in the same aspects of epidermal cell morphogenesis and division. As shown previously for Brk1, analysis of the cytoskeleton shows that Brk2 and Brk3 are required for the formation of local F-actin enrichments associated with lobe outgrowth in wild-type cells. Analysis of brk1;brk2, brk1;brk3 and brk2;brk3 double mutants shows that their phenotypes are the same as those of brk single mutants. Mosaic analysis shows that Brk1 acts non cell-autonomously over a short distance. By contrast, Brk2 and Brk3 act cell-autonomously to promote pavement cell lobe formation, but Brk3 acts non cell-autonomously, and Brk2 partially non cell-autonomously, to promote polarized subsidiary mother cell divisions. Together, these observations indicate that all three Brk genes act in a common pathway in which each Brk gene has a distinct function. Recent work demonstrating a function for the mammalian homolog of BRK1 (HSPC300) in activation of Arp2/3-dependent actin polymerization implicates the Brk pathway in local regulation of actin polymerization in plant cells.
Analysis of the Exponential Signal by the Interpolated DFT Algorithm

In this paper, exponential signals in the frequency domain are accurately analyzed by an algorithm, and the peaks of the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) result are adopted to obtain parameters that include amplitudes, frequencies, dampings, and phases. There are two steps for this algorithm: interpolated DFT and leakage elimination. Interpolated DFT refers to the three neighboring spectral lines at the peak of each mode used to calculate an approximate result, with the purpose of leakage elimination being to eliminate the influence of leakage on these data. After some iteration, this algorithm will obtain accurate parameters of the exponential components that are derived from their DFT results. The comparison of different algorithms is also discussed in this paper.
Signalling cascades in mechanotransduction: cell–matrix interactions and mechanical loading

Mechanical loading of articular cartilage stimulates the metabolism of resident chondrocytes and induces the synthesis of molecules to maintain the integrity of the cartilage. Mechanical signals modulate biochemical activity and changes in cell behavior through mechanotransduction. Compression of cartilage results in complex changes within the tissue including matrix and cell deformation, hydrostatic and osmotic pressure, fluid flow, altered matrix water content, ion concentration and fixed charge density. These changes are detected by mechanoreceptors on the cell surface, which include mechanosensitive ion channels and integrins that on activation initiate intracellular signalling cascades leading to tissue remodelling. Excessive mechanical loading also influences chondrocyte metabolism but unlike physiological stimulation leads to a quantitative imbalance between anabolic and catabolic activity resulting in depletion of matrix components. In this article we focus on the role of mechanical signalling in the maintenance of articular cartilage, and discuss how alterations in normal signalling can lead to pathology.
Three‐dimensional mapping with time‐of‐flight cameras

This article investigates the use of time‐of‐flight (ToF) cameras in mapping tasks for autonomous mobile robots, in particular in simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) tasks. Although ToF cameras are in principle an attractive type of sensor for three‐dimensional (3D) mapping owing to their high rate of frames of 3D data, two features make them difficult as mapping sensors, namely, their restricted field of view and influences on the quality of range measurements by high dynamics in object reflectivity; in addition, currently available models suffer from poor data quality in a number of aspects. The paper first summarizes calibration and filtering approaches for improving the accuracy, precision, and robustness of ToF cameras independent of their intended usage. Then, several ego motion estimation approaches are applied or adapted, respectively, in order to provide a performance benchmark for registering ToF camera data. As a part of this, an extension to the iterative closest point algorithm has been developed that increases the robustness under restricted field of view and under larger displacements. Using an indoor environment, the paper provides results from SLAM experiments using these approaches in comparison. It turns out that the application of ToF cameras is feasible to SLAM tasks, although this type of sensor has a complex error characteristic. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.