Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Variable Impedance Control Based on Impedance Estimation Model with EMG Signals during Extension and Flexion Tasks for a Lower LimbRehabilitation Robotic System

Rehabilitation robotic devices could be used as an effective tool to restore impaired motion functionality. Due to the human-robot cooperative nature of rehabilitation, these systems are expected to be user-oriented i.e., they should be controlled considering users dynamic characteristics. In this article, we proposed a variable impedance control, in which desired impedance of a system was setup to match human joint stiffness estimated from Electromyogram (EMG) signals recorded. Two experiments were performed in this work. The objective of the first experiment (Experiment-1) was to study the relationship between EMG and changing impedance in knee joint extension and flexion tasks. Based on the recorded data, a nonlinear model was proposed to express the relationship between EMG and changing impedance. The results show that Root Mean Square of the EMG signals (RMS-EMG) of target muscles increases, as specified elastic modulus increases for both tasks, but there is a significant difference (p<0.01, t-test) between the extension and flexion task. The second experiment (Experiment-2) was to confirm the effectiveness of the variable impedance control with the motion-dependent models acquired in Experiment-1. Four different control policies were tested, i.e., NA: No Assist; FO: using EMG-impedance model from the Flexion Task; EO: using EMG-impedance graph from the Extension Task; FE: using two EMG-impedance models from Flexion and Extension task correspondently. Results indicate that the proposed control model (FE) achieved a smaller discrepancy (p<0.01, t-test) between desired angle and the reached angle than the control with EO or NA cases. Moreover, a small sum of RMS_EMG from the variable impedance control with motion- dependent models denoted less effort required than the NA (p<0.01, t-test) case or the control with FO (p<0.01, t-test). Results also indicate that the proposed nonlinear and motion-dependent variable impedance control method achieved a smaller angular discrepancy (P<0.05, t-test) than linear variable impedance control.
How Life Experience Shapes Cognitive Control Strategies: The Case of Air Traffic Control Training

Although human flexible behavior relies on cognitive control, it would be implausible to assume that there is only one, general mode of cognitive control strategy adopted by all individuals. For instance, different reliance on proactive versus reactive control strategies could explain inter-individual variability. In particular, specific life experiences, like a highly demanding training for future Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs), could modulate cognitive control functions. A group of ATC trainees and a matched group of university students were tested longitudinally on task-switching and Stroop paradigms that allowed us to measure indices of cognitive control. The results showed that the ATCs, with respect to the control group, had substantially smaller mixing costs during long cue-target intervals (CTI) and a reduced Stroop interference effect. However, this advantage was present also prior to the training phase. Being more capable in managing multiple task sets and less distracted by interfering events suggests a more efficient selection and maintenance of task relevant information as an inherent characteristic of the ATC group, associated with proactive control. Critically, the training that the ATCs underwent improved their accuracy in general and reduced response time switching costs during short CTIs only. These results indicate a training-induced change in reactive control, which is described as a transient process in charge of stimulus-driven task detection and resolution. This experience-based enhancement of reactive control strategy denotes how cognitive control and executive functions in general can be shaped by real-life training and underlines the importance of experience in explaining inter-individual variability in cognitive functioning.
Gendered Identities and Immigrant Language Learning

Chapter One: The social context of immigrant language learning Chapter Two: Second language learning as gendered practice Chapter Three: Gendered narratives of immigrant language learners Chapter Four: The sociohistorical construction of parental involvement in education Chapter Five: Gendered positioning in ESL classroom activities Chapter Six: Changing gender ideologies in local communities Chapter Seven: Gendered identities and language learning: Continuing the dialogueReferencesAppendix A: Discourse transcription conventionsAppendix B: Focal participants' demographicsAppendix C: Data collected on participants
Combined Structural and Synovial Assessment for Improved Ultrasound Discrimination of Rheumatoid, Osteoarthritic, and Normal Joints: A Pilot Study

Background: Current ultrasonographic scoring systems used to assess the degree of finger joint synovitis in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are not designed for distinguishing healthy or osteoarthritis (OA) patients from those with RA in clinical settings. Objective: To explore a novel scoring approach using structural and synovial ultrasonographic features to distinguish between healthy and OA finger joints and those with RA. Methods: 22 patients with RA, 16 healthy controls, and 14 OA controls received a comprehensive ultrasound of one hand, with scores assigned using a modification of a previously reported RA scoring system (Semiquantitative Synovial Score), and using the novel approach (Combined Structural/Synovial Score). The number of joints classified as supporting the diagnosis of RA (“RA-supported”) with each approach was recorded. Sensitivity and specificity for each scoring system were calculated with respect to the clinical diagnosis. Results: The Semiquantitative Synovial Score was highly sensitive (100%), but without specificity (0%) for the diagnosis of RA, when RA was defined as having more than 1 joint classified as “RA-supported. ” The Combined Structural/Synovial Score had high sensitivity (95%) and moderate specificity (77%) when RA was defined as having any joint classified as “RA-supported”. Moderate sensitivity (73%) and high specificity (97%) were found when having more than 1 joint classified as “RA-supported” was required to diagnose RA. Conclusion: A novel structural and synovial hand joint scoring system was capable of distinguishing OA and healthy controls from RA subjects in this pilot evaluation. Prospective validation of this approach is planned.
Change in the Structure of Escherichia coli Population and the Pattern of Virulence Genes along a Rural Aquatic Continuum

The aim of this study was to investigate the diversity of the Escherichia coli population, focusing on the occurrence of pathogenic E. coli, in surface water draining a rural catchment. Two sampling campaigns were carried out in similar hydrological conditions (wet period, low flow) along a river continuum, characterized by two opposite density gradients of animals (cattle and wild animals) and human populations. While the abundance of E. coli slightly increased along the river continuum, the abundance of both human and ruminant-associated Bacteroidales markers, as well as the number of E. coli multi-resistant to antibiotics, evidenced a fecal contamination originating from animals at upstream rural sites, and from humans at downstream urban sites. A strong spatial modification of the structure of the E. coli population was observed. At the upstream site close to a forest, a higher abundance of the B2 phylogroup and Escherichia clade strains were observed. At the pasture upstream site, a greater proportion of both E and B1 phylogroups was detected, therefore suggesting a fecal contamination of mainly bovine origin. Conversely, in downstream urban sites, A, D, and F phylogroups were more abundant. To assess the occurrence of intestinal pathogenic strains, virulence factors [afaD, stx1, stx2, eltB (LT), estA (ST), ipaH, bfpA, eae, aaiC and aatA] were screened among 651 E. coli isolates. Intestinal pathogenic strains STEC O174:H21 (stx2) and EHEC O26:H11 (eae, stx1) were isolated in water and sediments close to the pasture site. In contrast, in the downstream urban site aEPEC/EAEC and DAEC of human origin, as well as extra-intestinal pathogenic E. coli belonging to clonal group A of D phylogroup, were sampled. Even if the estimated input of STEC (Shiga toxin-producing E. coli) – released in water at the upstream pasture site – at the downstream site was low, we show that STEC could persist in sediment. These results show that, the run-off of small cattle farms contributed, as much as the wastewater effluent, in the dissemination of pathogenic E. coli in both water and sediments, even if the microbiological quality of the water was good or to average quality according to the French water index.
Combining Features for Cover Song Identification

In this paper, we evaluate a set of methods for combining features for cover song identification. We first create multiple classifiers based on global tempo, duration, loudness, beats and chroma average features, training a random forest for each feature. Subsequently, we evaluate standard combination rules for merging these single classifiers into a composite classifier based on global features. We further obtain two higher level classifiers based on chroma features: one based on comparing histograms of quantized chroma features, and a second one based on computing cross-correlations between sequences of chroma features, to account for temporal information. For combining the latter chroma-based classifiers with the composite classifier based on global features, we use standard rank aggregation methods adapted from the information retrieval literature. We evaluate performance with the Second Hand Song dataset, where we quantify performance using multiple statistics. We observe that each combination rule outperforms single methods in terms of the total number of identified queries. Experiments with rank aggregation methods show an increase of up to 23.5 % of the number of identified queries, compared to single classifiers.
The Internal Governance of the Board 1

If the vast majority of director elections are uncontested (Bebchuk (2003); Cai et al. (2009)), then how does the board of directors structure itself to govern and monitor its own members? In this paper, I detail how the formation and composition of the nominating/governance committee relate to board member characteristics and firm determinants in a manner that is in accordance with the contracting relationship between shareholders and board members. For a sample of NYSE firms over the 2005 to 2009 period, I find that directors who are in high demand and directors who have performed well are more likely to hold nominating committee positions. In addition, firms associated with higher risk levels, and boards structured with a greater number of these high demand and strong performing directors create larger nominating committees to attract and retain their directors’ services. The results serve to address the apparent conflict between the prevalence of large nominating committees and the insulating nature of such a board feature.
WHAT DO PEOPLE BRING INTO THE GAME: EXPERIMENTS IN THE FIELD ABOUT COOPERATION IN THE COMMONS

CAPRi Working Papers contain preliminary material and research results, and are circulated prior to a full peer review in order to stimulate discussion and critical comment. It is expected that most Working Papers will eventually be published in some other form, and that their content may also be revised. WHAT DO PEOPLE BRING INTO THE GAME: EXPERIMENTS IN THE FIELD ABOUT COOPERATION IN THE COMMONS
Food-Based Interventions to Modify Diet Quality and Diversity to Address Multiple Micronutrient Deficiency

Global data indicate a high prevalence of hidden hunger among population. Deficiencies of certain micronutrients such as folic acid, iodine, iron, and vitamin A have long lasting effects on growth and development and therefore have been a National priority from many decades. The strategy implemented so far limits to the use of supplemental sources or fortified foods in alleviating the burden of deficiencies. These approaches however undermine the food-based strategies involving dietary diversification as the long-term sustainable strategy. There is lack of understanding on the level of evidence needed to implement such strategies and the level of monitoring required for impact evaluation. Dietary diversity concerns how to ensure access for each individual to a quality and safe diet with adequate macro- and micronutrients. The key to success in using dietary diversity as a strategy to tackle hidden hunger is in integrating it with the principles of bioavailability, translated to efficient food synergies with due emphasis on food accessibility, affordability, and outdoor physical activity/life style modifications. Promoting enabling environment and sustainable agriculture is crucial for practicing dietary diversification with behavior change communication as an integral segment. It can be concluded that food-based strategies require careful understanding of the factors associated with it and moderate it to form an effective strategy for controlling multiple micronutrient deficiencies.
Acute Toxicity and Neurobehavioral Effects of Diphenhydramine in Chicks

The present study was undertaken to examine the acute toxicity (LD50) and neurobehavioral manifestations in the open-field activity and tonic immobility tests in 7-14 day-old chicks treated with the H1-receptor antagonist diphenhydramine. Plasma and whole brain cholinesterase activities were also determined in the chicks. The LD50 of diphenhydramine in chicks was 49.3 mg/kg, intramuscularly (i.m.). The signs of diphenhydramine toxicosis in the chicks which appeared within one hour after injection included excitation, jumping, whole body tremor, ataxia, gasping, frequent defecation, paralysis and recumbency. Fifteen minutes after i.m. injection, diphenhydramine at 2.5 and 5mg/kg decreased the general locomotor activity of the chicks in the 5-min open-field activity test, as seen by a significant increase in the latency to move from the center of the open-field arena and decreases in the numbers of lines crossed and escape jumps in comparison with control values. Diphenhydramine significantly decreased the frequencies of pecking and defecation only at 5mg/kg when compared with respective control values. Diphenhydramine treatments at 2.5 and 5mg/kg also significantly increased the durations of tonic immobility of the chicks and decreased their whole brain cholinesterase activity by 33 and 30%, respectively, in comparison with the control values. In conclusion, the data suggest that diphenhydramine induces central nervous system depression in chicks at doses below the LD50 value of the drug which is reported here for the first time.
Efficacy of a Marine Bacterial Nuclease against Biofilm Forming Microorganisms Isolated from Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Background The persistent colonization of paranasal sinus mucosa by microbial biofilms is a major factor in the pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Control of microorganisms within biofilms is hampered by the presence of viscous extracellular polymers of host or microbial origin, including nucleic acids. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of extracellular DNA in biofilm formation by bacteria associated with CRS. Methods/Principal Findings Obstructive mucin was collected from patients during functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Examination of the mucous by transmission electron microscopy revealed an acellular matrix punctuated occasionally with host cells in varying states of degradation. Bacteria were observed in biofilms on mucosal biopsies, and between two and six different species were isolated from each of 20 different patient samples. In total, 16 different bacterial genera were isolated, of which the most commonly identified organisms were coagulase-negative staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus and α-haemolytic streptococci. Twenty-four fresh clinical isolates were selected for investigation of biofilm formation in vitro using a microplate model system. Biofilms formed by 14 strains, including all 9 extracellular nuclease-producing bacteria, were significantly disrupted by treatment with a novel bacterial deoxyribonuclease, NucB, isolated from a marine strain of Bacillus licheniformis. Extracellular biofilm matrix was observed in untreated samples but not in those treated with NucB and extracellular DNA was purified from in vitro biofilms. Conclusion/Significance Our data demonstrate that bacteria associated with CRS form robust biofilms which can be reduced by treatment with matrix-degrading enzymes such as NucB. The dispersal of bacterial biofilms with NucB may offer an additional therapeutic target for CRS sufferers.
The Relationship Between Intensity Indicators in Small-Sided Soccer Games

Abstract The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between different kinds of intensity indicators in small-sided soccer games. This descriptive correlational study included 14 semi-professional male soccer players (21.3 ± 2.3 years, 174 ± 4.0 cm, 73.4 ± 5.1 kg) from the same team. The players were monitored by means of heart rate monitors and GPS devices during 27 small-sided games of nine different formats, yielding a total of 217 recordings. After each game the Borg scale was used to give a rate of perceived exertion (RPE). The internal load indicators were the mean heart rate relative to the individual maximum (%HRmean) and the RPE, while those for the external load were the player load, total distance covered, distance covered in two intensity ranges (>18 km·h-1 and >21 km·h-1), and frequency of effort (in the same two intensity ranges). There was a significant moderate correlation (r=0.506) between the two internal load measurements (%HRmean and RPE). Although there were significant correlations of different degrees between various external load measurements, only the player load was significantly correlated with the internal load indicators (r=0.331 with %HRmean and r=0.218 with RPE). During training programes of this kind, it is necessary to consider a range of intensity indicators so as to obtain complementary information. This will enable coaches to more accurately assess the load imposed on players and therefore optimize the training process.
Investigating West Virginia Students' Perceptions of the Factors Affecting Their Educational Aspirations

Investigating West Virginia Students’ Perceptions of the Factors Affecting Their Educational Aspirations The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of West Virginia students about factors affecting their educational aspirations and to determine whether these factors differed significantly over time, by gender, or by parents‟ college history. Research questions included: (1) To what extent will constructs emerging from West Virginia student data parallel the eight constructs identified as supporting student aspirations by the University of Maine‟s National Center for Student Aspirations? (2) To what extent do students‟ perceptions of these factors differ over time, from seventh to ninth grade? (3) To what extent do students‟ perceptions of these factors differ by gender? (4) To what extent do students‟ perceptions of these factors differ by parents‟ college history? (5) What are the interactions among the independent variables of time, gender, and parents‟ college history? This study utilized extant survey data from 664 students who completed surveys in the seventh and ninth grades for the West Virginia Department of Education GEAR UP project. In addition to gender and parents‟ college history, 28 survey items originating from the University of Maine‟s “Students Speak” survey were used. These 28 items are purported to comprise eight conditions that support students‟ aspirations. Factor analysis resulted in five factors with Eigenvalues above 1.0: Teacher Centric, Self-Efficacy, Curriculum, Self-Responsibility, and Connectedness. MANOVA analysis revealed statistically significant differences by time, gender, and parents‟ college history; no significant interactions were found. Follow-up ANOVA analyses revealed that mean scores for all scales except Curriculum decreased significantly from seventh to ninth grade; that mean scores for all five scales were significantly higher for females than males; and that students with at least one parent with college experience scored significantly higher on Self-Efficacy than students whose parents had no college experience. In conclusion, none of the original eight conditions emerged as exact replicas, but all were represented to some degree within the five factors. Findings support the literature in terms of a decrease in students‟ perceptions from middle to high school, gender differences, and the positive influence of parental college experience. The study emphasizes the importance of the school environment on students‟ aspirations.
A radio and optical study of Molonglo radio sources

We present multi-wavelength radio observations with the Very Large Array, and narrow- and broad-band optical observations with the 2.5-m telescope at the Las Campanas Observatory, of a well-defined sample of high-luminosity Fanaroff–Riley class II radio galaxies and quasars, selected from the Molonglo Reference Catalogue 1-Jy sample. These observations were carried out as part of a programme to investigate the effects of orientation and environment on some of the observed properties of these sources. We examine the dependence of the Liu–Pooley relationship, which shows that radio lobes with flatter radio spectra are less depolarized, on size, identification and redshift, and show that it is significantly stronger for smaller sources, with the strength of the relationship being similar for both radio galaxies and quasars. In addition to Doppler effects, there appear to be intrinsic differences between the lobes on opposite sides. We discuss the asymmetry in brightness and location of the hotspots, and present estimates of the ages and velocities from matched-resolution observations in the L and C bands. Narrow- and broad-band optical images of some of these sources were made to study their environments and correlate with the symmetry parameters. An extended emission-line region is seen in a quasar, and in four of the objects possible companion galaxies are seen close to the radio axis.
Cerebellar Input Configuration Toward Object Model Abstraction in Manipulation Tasks

It is widely assumed that the cerebellum is one of the main nervous centers involved in correcting and refining planned movement and accounting for disturbances occurring during movement, for instance, due to the manipulation of objects which affect the kinematics and dynamics of the robot-arm plant model. In this brief, we evaluate a way in which a cerebellar-like structure can store a model in the granular and molecular layers. Furthermore, we study how its microstructure and input representations (context labels and sensorimotor signals) can efficiently support model abstraction toward delivering accurate corrective torque values for increasing precision during different-object manipulation. We also describe how the explicit (object-related input labels) and implicit state input representations (sensorimotor signals) complement each other to better handle different models and allow interpolation between two already stored models. This facilitates accurate corrections during manipulations of new objects taking advantage of already stored models.