Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
What privacy concerns do parents have about children's mobile apps, and how can they stay SHARP?

Tablet computers are widely used by young children. A report in 2016 shows that children aged 5 to 15 years are spending more time online than watching TV. A 2017 update of the same report shows that parents are becoming more concerned about their children's online risks compared to the previous year. Parents are working hard to protect their children's online safety. An increasing number of parents are setting up content filtering at home or having regular discussions with their children regarding online risks. However, although risks related to Social Media platforms or social video sharing sites (like YouTube) are widely known, risks posed by mobile applications or games (i.e. `apps') are less known. Behind the cute characters, apps used by children can not only have the possibility of exposing them to age-inappropriate content or excessive in-app promotions, but may also make a large amount of their personal information accessible to third-party online marketing and advertising industry. Such practices are not unique to children's apps, but young children are probably less capable of resisting the resulting personalised advertisements and game promotions. In this report, we present findings from our online survey of 220 parents with children aged 6-10, mainly from the U.K. and other western countries, regarding their privacy concerns and expectations of their children's use of mobile apps. Parents play a key role in children's use of digital technology, especially for children under 10 years old. Recent reports have highlighted parents' lack of sufficient support for choosing appropriate digital content for their children. Our report sheds some initial light on parents' key struggles and points to immediate steps and possible areas of future development.
Adversarial Information Factorization

We propose a novel generative model architecture designed to learn representations for images that factor out a single attribute from the rest of the representation. A single object may have many attributes which when altered do not change the identity of the object itself. Consider the human face; the identity of a particular person is independent of whether or not they happen to be wearing glasses. The attribute of wearing glasses can be changed without changing the identity of the person. However, the ability to manipulate and alter image attributes without altering the object identity is not a trivial task. Here, we are interested in learning a representation of the image that separates the identity of an object (such as a human face) from an attribute (such as 'wearing glasses'). We demonstrate the success of our factorization approach by using the learned representation to synthesize the same face with and without a chosen attribute. We refer to this specific synthesis process as image attribute manipulation. We further demonstrate that our model achieves competitive scores, with state of the art, on a facial attribute classification task.
Using Multi-task and Transfer Learning to Solve Working Memory Tasks

We propose a new architecture called Memory-Augmented Encoder-Solver (MAES) that enables transfer learning to solve complex working memory tasks adapted from cognitive psychology. It uses dual recurrent neural network controllers, inside the encoder and solver, respectively, that interface with a shared memory module and is completely differentiable. We study different types of encoders in a systematic manner and demonstrate a unique advantage of multi-task learning in obtaining the best possible encoder. We show by extensive experimentation that the trained MAES models achieve task-size generalization, i.e., they are capable of handling sequential inputs 50 times longer than seen during training, with appropriately large memory modules. We demonstrate that the performance achieved by MAES far outperforms existing and well-known models such as the LSTM, NTM and DNC on the entire suite of tasks.
Comparison of different dielectric characterization methods with TSC spectra of silicone rubber filled with carbon black nanofillers

High voltage direct current (HVDC) power transmission is becoming increasingly competitive to high voltage alternating current (HVAC) power transmission, especially for bulk power transmission over long distances. For crossing wide metropolitan areas, long distances in the open sea, or latterly in Germany the planned underground North-South DC links, especially extruded HVDC cable lines are attractive because of significant advantages over other insulation types. Nevertheless, in HVDC insulation systems the electric field distribution is much more complex than in AC systems, because it strongly depends on the conductivities of the insulation. Especially the presence of space charges can lead to an increased electric field strength up to the failure of the device. Due to the mentioned challenges it is significant to develop new insulating materials suitable for HVDC applications. One promising approach is to introduce nanofillers in the insulating matrix for space charge suppression. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of the influence of nanoscale carbon black (CB) in liquid silicone rubber (LSR). Besides volume resistivity, dielectric breakdown strength is determined to check the influence of the CB concentration. In addition, TSC (Thermally Stimulated Current) measurements are performed on LSR samples with different CB concentrations to evaluate their properties.
Bleeding in patients receiving non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants: clinical trial evidence

In optimizing anticoagulation therapy, it is essential to balance treatment efficacy with the major adverse effect of anticoagulant treatment, bleeding risk. This narrative review examines the efficacy and safety of the non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban compared with standard anticoagulation or placebo. NOAC therapies provide equivalent to superior protection versus standard therapy, with similar or superior safety, and potential benefits in convenience. We will review the phase III evidence for each of the available NOACs in different antithrombotic indications, including atrial fibrillation (in the absence of significant mitral stenosis or mechanical heart valves); prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients undergoing orthopedic surgery; and acute and long-term treatment of VTE. Further, we will illustrate scenarios in which the evidence is stronger for a particular agent in the context of the overall positive safety and efficacy profile of NOACs in general. Limitations of the factor Xa inhibitors include the lack of a specific antidote in case of a bleeding emergency (an approved agent is available for reversing the effect of the direct thrombin inhibitor). We discuss the options for mitigating bleeding and describe the ongoing developments towards specific reversal agents. In conclusion, the available data for efficacy and safety, together with reliable pharmacokinetics obviating the need for regular monitoring, indicate that NOACs may offer substantial benefits for patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation or VTE.
The general facilitation effect of implementation intentions on prospective memory performance in patients with schizophrenia

ABSTRACT Introduction: Prospective memory (PM) refers to remembering to execute a planned intention in the future. It can be divided into event- and time-based, according to the nature of the PM cue. Event-based PM cues can be classified as focal or non-focal. Patients with schizophrenia (SCZ) have been found to be impaired in both event- and time-based PM. PM has been found to be improved by implementation intentions, which is an encoding strategy in the format of “if X then Y”. This study examined the effect of implementation intentions on a non-focal event-based and a time-based PM task in patients with SCZ.Methods: Forty-two patients with SCZ and 42 healthy controls were allocated to either an implementation intention or a control PM instruction condition and were asked to complete two PM tasks. Results: Implementation intentions was found to improve performance in both the non-focal event-based and time-based PM tasks in patients with SCZ and healthy controls, with no costs to the ongoing task. The improvement in time-based PM performance in the implementation intentions condition was partially mediated by the frequency of clock checking behaviour. Conclusions: Implementation intentions can facilitate PM performance in patients with SCZ and has the potential to be used as a clinical intervention tool.
Microarray-Based Detection and Clinical Evaluation for Helicobacter pylori Resistance to Clarithromycin or Levofloxacin and the Genotype of CYP2C19 in 1083 Patients

Background. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is one of the most frequent and persistent bacterial infections that affect nearly half of the world's population. Antibiotic resistance is a constantly evolving process and local surveillance of antibiotic resistance is warranted to guide clinicians in their choice of therapy. The aim of this study was to establish a microarray-based detection to identify H. pylori infection, clarithromycin and levofloxacin susceptibility, and CYP2C19 genetic polymorphism and guide to potential choice of proton pump inhibitor (PPI), antibiotic administration for tailored H. pylori eradication therapy. Methods. By analyzing the sequence of human genomic CYP2C19⁎2 and CYP2C19⁎3 and mutations within the 23S rRNA and gyrA gene regions conferring clarithromycin and levofloxacin resistance, respectively, we developed a microarray for individual therapy detection of H. pylori infection. Plasmids were established as positive or limit of detection (LOD) reference materials. The specificity and sensitivity of the microarray had been performed. And a total of 1083 gastric biopsy samples were tested and the Kappa value had been calculated between the array and Sanger sequencing. We also analyzed the resistance to clarithromycin and levofloxacin in China, as well as the CYP2C19 polymorphisms. Results. The LOD of detecting H. pylori was 103 CFU/mL and human genome DNA was 2 ng/μL. The detection results of 1083 gastric biopsy samples showed that 691 (63.80%) were H. pylori positive, of which 266 (38.49%) were resistant to clarithromycin, 192 (27.79%) were resistant to levofloxacin, and 61 (8.83%) were resistant to both of them. For the type of CYP2C19 polymorphism, 412 (38.04%) were homozygous fast type (HomEM), 574 (53%) were heterozygous EM (HetEM), and 97 (8.96%) were poor metabolizer (PM). Conclusions. The proposed microarray-based detection has high specificity, sensitivity, and reproducibility for detecting the resistance of clarithromycin or levofloxacin as well as CYP2C19 polymorphism, which may help to improve the clinical eradication rate of H. pylori.
A theoretical framework for deep locally connected ReLU network

Understanding theoretical properties of deep and locally connected nonlinear network, such as deep convolutional neural network (DCNN), is still a hard problem despite its empirical success. In this paper, we propose a novel theoretical framework for such networks with ReLU nonlinearity. The framework explicitly formulates data distribution, favors disentangled representations and is compatible with common regularization techniques such as Batch Norm. The framework is built upon teacher-student setting, by expanding the student forward/backward propagation onto the teacher's computational graph. The resulting model does not impose unrealistic assumptions (e.g., Gaussian inputs, independence of activation, etc). Our framework could help facilitate theoretical analysis of many practical issues, e.g. overfitting, generalization, disentangled representations in deep networks.
Adult attachment and birth experience: importance of a secure base and safe haven during childbirth

ABSTRACT Objective: Examine connections between mothers’ adult attachment and subjective birth experience in the context of parity and mode of delivery. Background: Research has established a clear connection between adult attachment and birth experience. This study extended previous research with an in-depth self-report attachment measure examining different dimensions of mothers’ attachment representations and their relation to subjective birth experience. Interactions between mode of delivery and parity were also considered. Method: Participants were 257 mothers who gave birth 4 days to 12 months prior to the study. Mothers’ mean age was 30.5 years, 61% primiparas, and 26% delivered by caesarean. Participants completed an online survey with the Birth Experience Questionnaire, the Reciprocal Attachment Questionnaire, and demographic information. Results: Hierarchical moderated regression analyses showed direct effects from adult attachment dimensions to mothers’ subjective birth experiences, specifically perceived availability, feared loss, separation protest, angry withdrawal, and compulsive careseeking. Interactions emerged for parity and/or mode of delivery for overall subjective birth experience, perceived control, perceived social support, and satisfaction. Conclusion: Adult attachment representations related to subjective birth experience, indicating that attachment figures serve as secure bases and safe havens for mothers during childbirth. These results have implications for practitioners and provide direction for future research.
Astaxanthin-Rich Haematococcus pluvialis Algal Hepatic Modulation in D-Galactose-Induced Aging in Rats: Role of Nrf2

Purpose: Aging is associated with hepatic morphological and physiological deterioration due to the accumulation of endogenous and exogenous free radicals and the resultant oxidative stress. The present study aims to investigate the effect of Haematococcus pluvialis microalgae on hepatic changes associated with D-galactose (D-Gal)-induced aging in rats. Methods: Aging was induced in rats by daily intraperitoneal injection of D-Gal (200 mg/kg/day) for eight consecutive weeks. D-Gal-injected rats were treated by astaxanthin (ATX)-rich H. pluvialis biomass, its carotenoid and polar fractions for two weeks. Twenty four hours after the last dose, blood samples were collected and the liver tissues were isolated for further biochemical and histopathological examinations. Results: D-Gal induced aging was associated with an elevation in serum liver function parameters, hepatic oxidative stress biomarkers viz., catalase (CAT), glutathione transferase (GST) and myeloperoxidase (MPO), as well as decreased expression of nuclear factor like-2 (Nrf2). Moreover, induction of aging exhibited an elevation of hepatic inflammatory cytokine; interleukin-6 (IL-6) and its modulator; nuclear factor Kappa B (NF-KB). However, treatment of D-Gal injected rats with ATX-rich H. pluvialis restored the serum liver function parameters as well as hepatic CAT, GST and MPO levels with an elevated expression of Nrf2. Treatment with ATX-rich H. pluvialis was also accompanied with a decrease in hepatic levels of NF-KB and IL-6. Histopathological examination emphasized all the previous results. Similarly, all trans-astaxanthin showed high affinity towards Nrf2 with -7.93 kcal/mol estimated free energy of binding as well as moderate affinities towards IL-6 and NF-KB through a docking study. Conclusion: ATX-rich H. pluvialis showed beneficial effects by ameliorating the hepatic changes associated with D-Gal induced aging in rats due to its modulatory role of the Nrf2/Keap pathway.
Polymer Blend Systems for HVDC Cable Applications

Two polyethylene blends crystallized under non-isothermal conditions were compared to a crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) reference material. One blend contained a gelation agent, which forms a network structure within the polymer host. Compared to the reference material, the blends offered higher melting points, increased electrical breakdown strength and enhanced thermo-mechanical stability at high temperatures. Dissipation of stored charge was improved in the blend containing the gelation agent. The provision of recyclable insulation capable of operating at higher temperatures than XLPE, combined with enhanced dielectric properties, may prove invaluable to cable manufacturers.
Clinical characteristics of patients with liver cirrhosis and spontaneous portosystemic shunts detected by ultrasound in a tertiary care and transplantation centre

Abstract Objectives: The clinical relevance of spontaneous portosystemic shunts detected by ultrasound is insufficiently investigated. The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the frequency and clinical relevance of spontaneous portosystemic shunts in patients with liver cirrhosis. Methods: We evaluated portosystemic shunts, liver cirrhosis and spleen size by ultrasound in 982 patients with liver cirrhosis and correlated these with laboratory results, clinical data and the incidence of clinical endpoint deaths, liver transplantation and the development of HCC during the follow-up period (mean 1.26 ± 1.53 years [range 0–7.2 years]). Results: Portosystemic shunts were detected in 34% of the patients. These patients had a higher rate of alcohol-related cirrhosis (37% vs. 30%, p = .003), a higher MELD score (p < .001) and Child-Pugh grade (p < .001), as well as more frequent hepatic encephalopathy (p < .001) and oesophageal varices (p < .003). The most frequent portosystemic shunt in this cohort was an umbilical vein shunt (69%) followed by splenorenal (16%), mesenteric (7%) and combined/other shunts (8%). Patients with umbilical vein shunts had a higher rate of alcohol-related cirrhosis (p = .041) and suffered more frequently from Child B/C stages (p = .03), hepatorenal syndrome (p = .03), massive ascites (p = .001) and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (p = .011). Conclusions: Patients with portosystemic shunts that are detected by ultrasound should be monitored carefully as these patients are associated with advanced liver disease and multiple clinical risk factors.
Dynamic Complexity of Spontaneous BOLD Activity in Alzheimer’s Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment Using Multiscale Entropy Analysis

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by progressive deterioration of brain function among elderly people. Studies revealed aberrant correlations in spontaneous blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signals in resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) over a wide range of temporal scales. However, the study of the temporal dynamics of BOLD signals in subjects with AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) remains largely unexplored. Multiscale entropy (MSE) analysis is a method for estimating the complexity of finite time series over multiple time scales. In this research, we applied MSE analysis to investigate the abnormal complexity of BOLD signals using the rs-fMRI data from the Alzheimer’s disease neuroimaging initiative (ADNI) database. There were 30 normal controls (NCs), 33 early MCI (EMCI), 32 late MCI (LMCI), and 29 AD patients. Following preprocessing of the BOLD signals, whole-brain MSE maps across six time scales were generated using the Complexity Toolbox. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) analysis on the MSE maps of four groups revealed significant differences in the thalamus, insula, lingual gyrus and inferior occipital gyrus, superior frontal gyrus and olfactory cortex, supramarginal gyrus, superior temporal gyrus, and middle temporal gyrus on multiple time scales. Compared with the NC group, MCI and AD patients had significant reductions in the complexity of BOLD signals and AD patients demonstrated lower complexity than that of the MCI subjects. Additionally, the complexity of BOLD signals from the regions of interest (ROIs) was found to be significantly associated with cognitive decline in patient groups on multiple time scales. Consequently, the complexity or MSE of BOLD signals may provide an imaging biomarker of cognitive impairments in MCI and AD.
New chrysilline and aelurilline jumping spiders from Pakistan (Araneae, Salticidae)

Abstract Epocillapakhtunkhwa Ali & Maddison, sp. n. and Stenaelurillusmardanicus Ali & Maddison, sp. n. are described from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan. Noted for the first time is the presence in Epocilla of a small bump just anterior to the fovea of the carapace, of unknown functional significance, otherwise known in the unrelated Opisthoncus L. Koch, 1880 and Cocalus Pocock, 1897. In addition, the female of Menemerusnigli Wesołowska & Freudenschuss, 2012 is described for the first time.
Automatic Detection of Orientation Contrast Occurs at Early but Not Earliest Stages of Visual Cortical Processing in Humans

Orientation contrast is formed when some elements orient differently from their surroundings. Although orientation contrast can be processed in the absence of top-down attention, the underlying neural mechanism for this automatic processing in humans is controversial. In particular, whether automatic detection of orientation contrast occurs at the initial feedforward stage in the primary visual cortex (i.e., V1) remains unclear. Here, we used event-related potentials (ERPs) to examine the automatic processing of orientation contrast in humans. In three experiments, participants completed a task at fixation while orientation contrasts were presented in the periphery, either in the upper visual field (UVF) or the lower visual field (LVF). All experiments showed significant positive potentials evoked by orientation contrasts over occipital areas within 100 ms after stimulus onset. These contrast effects occurred 10–20 ms later than the C1 components evoked by identically located abrupt onset stimuli which indexes the initial feedforward activity in V1. Compared with those in the UVF, orientation contrasts in the LVF evoked earlier and stronger activities, probably reflecting a LVF advantage in processing of orientation contrast. Even when orientation contrasts were rendered almost invisible by backward masking (in Experiment 2), the early contrast effect in the LVF was not disrupted. These findings imply that automatic processing of orientation contrast could occur at early visual cortical processing stages, but was slightly later than the initial feedforward processing in human V1; such automatic processing may involve either recurrent processing in V1 or feedforward processing in early extrastriate visual cortex. Highlights - We examined the earliest automatic processing of orientation contrast in humans with ERPs. - Significant orientation contrast effect started within 100 ms in early visual areas. - The earliest orientation contrast effect occurred later than the C1 evoked by abrupt onset stimuli. - The earliest orientation contrast effect was independent of top-down attention and awareness. - Automatic detection of orientation contrast arises slightly after the initial feedforward processing in V1.