Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Age-Related EEG Power Reductions Cannot Be Explained by Changes of the Conductivity Distribution in the Head Due to Brain Atrophy

Electroencephalogram (EEG) power reductions in the aging brain have been described by numerous previous studies. However, the underlying mechanism for the observed brain signal power reduction remains unclear. One possible cause for reduced EEG signals in elderly subjects might be the increased distance from the primary neural electrical currents on the cortex to the scalp electrodes as the result of cortical atrophies. While brain shrinkage itself reflects age-related neurological changes, the effects of changes in the distribution of electrical conductivity are often not distinguished from altered neural activity when interpreting EEG power reductions. To address this ambiguity, we employed EEG forward models to investigate whether brain shrinkage is a major factor for the signal attenuation in the aging brain. We simulated brain shrinkage in spherical and realistic brain models and found that changes in the conductor geometry cannot fully account for the EEG power reductions even when the brain was shrunk to unrealistic sizes. Our results quantify the extent of power reductions from brain shrinkage and pave the way for more accurate inferences about deficient neural activity and circuit integrity based on EEG power reductions in the aging population.
Impact of COVID-19 on the Speech and Language Therapy Profession and Their Patients

Introduction: The UK's response to the COVID-19 pandemic presented multiple challenges to healthcare services including the suspension of non-urgent care. The impact on neurorehabilitation professions, including speech and language therapy (SLT), has been substantial. Objectives: To review the changes to SLT services triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic with respect to referral rates, service delivery and outcomes, as well as examining the contribution of SLTs to the neurorehabilitation of COVID-19 patients. Methods: Two surveys were distributed to Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) members exploring experiences of service provision at 6 weeks and 22 weeks after the pandemic was declared in the UK. Responses to closed-ended questions, including questions regarding referral numbers were analyzed descriptively and compared at the two time-points. A database comprising routine clinical data from SLT services across the UK was used to compare information on patients receiving services prior to and during the pandemic. Data on COVID-19 patients was extracted, and findings are provided descriptively. Results: Referrals to SLT services during the acute COVID-19 period in the UK were substantially less than in the same period in 2019. A number of service changes were common including adopting more flexible approaches to provision (such as tele-therapy) and being unable to provide services to some patients. Database analysis suggests fewer patients have accessed SLT since the pandemic began, including a reduction in neurorehabilitation patients. For those who received SLT, the outcomes did not change. SLTs supported a range of needs of COVID-19 patients. Treatment outcomes for COVID-19 patients with dysphagia were positive. Discussion: The pandemic has affected neurorehabilitation and SLT services broadly: referral patterns are different, usual care has been disrupted and interventions have been modified affecting the impact on patient outcomes both positively and negatively. Some patients with COVID-19 require and benefit from SLT intervention.
Cognitive Behavioral Approach to Treat Obesity: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Our aim was to analyze and compare the effects of three different long-term treatments on anthropometric profiles, eating behaviors, anxiety and depression levels, and quality of life of groups of adults with obesity. Methods: The 43 participants in the study were randomly assigned to one of three groups: the education and health group (EH, n = 12), which received lectures on health topics; the physical exercise group (PE, n = 13), which underwent physical training; and the interdisciplinary therapy plus cognitive behavioral therapy (IT + CBT) (n = 18) group, which received physical training, nutritional advice, and physical and psychological therapy. Results: Total quality of life increased significantly in the EH group (△ = 2.00); in the PE group, body weight significantly decreased (△ = −1.42) and the physical domain of quality of life improved (△ = 1.05). However, the most significant changes were seen in the IT + CBT group, in which the anthropometric profile improved; there were an increase in quality of life in all domains (physical, psychological, social, and environmental), an improvement in eating behaviors [Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire (DEBQ), total △ = −8.39], and a reduction in depression [Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), △ = −10.13). Conclusion: The IT + CBT program was more effective than the PE and EH programs. Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT02573688.
Altered Light Sensitivity of Circadian Clock in Shank3+/– Mouse

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairment in communication and social interaction, repetitive or stereotypical behaviors, altered sensory perception, and sleep disorders. In general, the causes of ASD remain unknown, but in Phelan–McDermid syndrome, it is known that the disorder is related to the haploinsufficiency of the Shank3 gene. We used an autism model with compromised glutamatergic signaling, the Shank3+/– mouse, to study the circadian rhythm architecture of locomotion behavior and its entrainment to light. We also analyzed the synapse between the retinohypothalamic tract (RHT) and the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), employing tract tracing and immunohistochemical techniques. We found that Shank3+/– mice were not impaired in the SCN circadian clock, as indicated by a lack of differences between groups in the circadian architecture in entrained animals to either long or short photoperiods. Circadian rhythm periodicity (tau) was unaltered between genotypes in constant darkness (DD, dim red light). Similar results were obtained in the re-entrainment to shifts in the light–dark cycle and in the entrainment to a skeleton photoperiod from DD. However, Shank3+/– mice showed larger phase responses to light pulses, both delays and advances, and rhythm disorganization induced by constant bright light. Immunohistochemical analyses indicated no differences in the RHT projection to the SCN or the number of SCN neurons expressing the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunit NR2A, whereas the Shank3+/– animals showed decreased c-Fos induction by brief light pulses at CT14, but increased number of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP)-positive neurons. These results indicate alterations in light sensitivity in Shank3+/– mice. Further studies are necessary to understand the mechanisms involved in such increased light sensitivity, probably involving VIP neurons.
Technological and Nutritional Properties of Flours and Tortillas from Nixtamalized and Extruded Quality Protein Maize (Zea mays L.)

ABSTRACT Nixtamalized and extruded flours from quality protein maize (QPM, V-537C) and tortillas made from them were evaluated for some technological and nutritional properties and compared with the commercial brand MASECA. Both QPM flours showed higher (P < 0.05) protein content, total color difference, pH, available lysine, and lower (P < 0.05) total starch content, Hunter L value, water absorption index, gelatinization enthalpy, resistant starch, and retrograded resistant starch than nixtamalized MASECA flour. Tortillas from nixtamalized and extruded QPM flours had higher contents of essential amino acids than tortillas from MASECA flour, except for leucine. Tortillas from processed QPM flours also showed higher (P < 0.05) values of the nutritional indicators calculated protein efficiency ratio (C-PER 1.80–1.85 vs. 1.04), apparent and true in vivo protein digestibility (78.4-79.1 vs. 75.6% and 76.4–77.4 vs. 74.2%, respectively), PER (2.30–2.43 vs. 1.31), net protein retention (NPR; 2.88–2.89 vs. 2.11),.
INTERACTION EFFECT OF POTASSIUM AND SULFUR FERTILIZATION ON PRODUCTIVITY AND MINERAL NUTRITION OF SUNNHEMP

The interactive effect of potassium (K) and sulfur (S) fertilization on productivity and mineral nutrition of sunnhemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) was evaluated in a field experiment during 2008 and 2009 cropping seasons at Uttar Pradesh, India. Potassium and sulfur fertilizers increased fiber yield and nutrient uptake of sunnhemp. It was observed that an application of K and S at 40 kg ha−1 each significantly increased the total dry matter, fiber yield, and nutrient uptake of sunnhemp. The crop yield response to the added S was greater than for K and the nutrient use efficiency was also higher at lower levels of fertilizer addition. The increased levels of K and S improved the number of nodules and crude protein content of sunnhemp leaves.
Prognostic Signi cance of Preoperative Serum CA125, CA19-9, CA72-4, CEA, and AFP in Patients With Endometrial Cancer

Zi-hao Wang Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University Yun-zheng Zhang Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University Qi-jun Wu Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University Yu-shan Wang Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University xiaoxin Ma (  maxiaoxin666@aliyun.com ) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Higher Education of Liaoning Province, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 39 Huaxiang Road, Shenyang, 110021, People's Republic of China https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7361-3196
Determination of silver in plants by flameless atomic absorption spectrometry and neutron activation analysis

Abstract Three analytical techniques suitable for determining silver concentrations in plants are presented and compared. Graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry performed directly on sample digests was the most sensitive and convenient. Neutron activation analysis, measuring 110mAg gave good reproducibility, but lower sensitivity. A cyclic activation scheme to generate and detect the short-lived isotope 110Ag was useful as a quick reconnaissance technique, but interference from 76As reduced its effectiveness. Data are presented on the silver content of terrestrial plants. Background silver concentrations for lichens and bryophytes collected from Wales, U.K. were <0. 07μgg−1. Samples collected from areas contaminated by derelict metal mines contained between 0.1-1. 0μAgg−1. The aerial portions of vascular species usually contained less silver than bryophytes growing on the same substrate. Fungi are shown to bioconcentrate silver to a greater extent than cadmium, copper or lead.
Phytoremediation Strategies for Remediation of Uranium-Contaminated Environments: A Review

Uranium is one of the most toxic radionuclide contaminants and is progressively dispersing in the environment due to the exploration and utilization of nuclear energy. Uranium in the environment endangers both human and animal health, and thus proper management of uranium-contaminated environments has become an urgent need. For treatment of soils contaminated with uranium, traditionally employed chemical (extraction/washing, immobilization) and physical (excavation and disposal) treatment technologies are costly and have produced uncertain results and consequently, alternative pollution control techniques involving various strategies have been considered. Phytoremediation has been widely accepted as an economic, environment-friendly and efficient approach for management of soils contaminated by uranium. As uranium speciation and its bioavailability are closely related to soil properties, such as pH, organic matter, phosphates, carbonates, and iron oxides, they act as key factors influencing uranium uptake by plants. Based on the knowledge of these factors, various soil amendments such as citric acid, calcium carbonate, and phosphate to improve bioavailability of uranium have been proposed. In addition, inoculation of plants with biological amendments such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi has also emerged as an effective remediation strategy for uranium-contaminated soils. In aquatic environments, rhizofiltration can be used as a suitable approach for uranium remediation. With the recent developments, phytoremediation has the potential to become an integral part of the management of uranium-contaminated environments.
Comparing the efficacy of continuous and pulsed ultrasound therapies in patients with lateral epicondylitis: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study

Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of continuous and pulsed ultrasound therapies in lateral epicondylitis. Patients and methods A total of 51 patients (18 males, 33 females; mean age: 46.52±6.16 years; range, 27 to 64 years) who were diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis between February 2013 and October 2014 were included. The patients were randomized to either continuous ultrasound (n=17), pulsed ultrasound (n=17), or placebo (n=17) groups. First group received 10 sessions of continuous ultrasound therapy. The second group received 10 sessions of pulsed ultrasound therapy in a ratio of 1:4. The third group received 10 sessions of placebo treatment. The pain levels of the patients were evaluated using Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The muscle strength was evaluated using a dynamometer. For functional evaluation, Duruöz’s Hand Index (DHI) and Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE) scales were used. Assessments were made at baseline, at the end of therapy, and one month after therapy. The thickness of the common extensor tendon was also measured using ultrasonic imaging at baseline and at the end of therapy. Results At the end of the study, there was a statistically significant improvement in the rest and activation VAS scores, and DHI and PRTEE scores in both continuous and pulsed ultrasound therapy groups, compared to placebo (p<0.05). However, no superiority was found between the continuous and pulsed ultrasound therapy groups (p>0.05). A statistically significant reduction in the common extensor tendon thickness was found only in the pulsed ultrasound therapy group (p<0.05). Conclusion Our study results show that both continuous and pulsed ultrasound applications are effective in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.
The Effects of Using Internet-Based Export Marketing Information Sources on Export Market Growth Capability

Murat ARSLANDERE a Serkan ADA b İlhami TUNCER c a Karamanoğlu Mehmetbey University, School of Applied Sciences, Karaman, Turkey. muratarslandere01@gmail.com b Karamanoğlu Mehmetbey University, Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Karaman, Turkey. serkanada@kmu.edu. tr c Karamanoğlu Mehmetbey University, Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Karaman, Turkey. ituncer@kmu.edu. tr
Upper and Lower Airways Functional Examination in Asthma and Respiratory Allergic Deseases. Considerations in the SARS-CoV-2 Post-Pandemic Situation.

Airway examination techniques are procedures that can potentially transmit infectious diseases to both patients and healthcare professionals who perform them, by various mechanisms. The pandemic situation due to the COVID-19 disease has practically halted most of the activity of the clinics and laboratories of pulmonary and nasal function, with clear recommendations in this regard. Being already in the early stages after the peak of the pandemic, we still do not know for sure what its consequences will be in the short or long term, since there are important gaps in the knowledge of aspects as fundamental as the transmission mechanisms of the virus, its pathophysiology and immune response or its diagnosis. In this review we will examine the different examination techniques available on the assessment of patients suffering from respiratory allergy, asthma and associated diseases, int the postpandemic momentum, highlighting their possible advantages and disadvantages. For this reason, we wanted to focus on exploring the entire upper and lower airways, from the perspective of the safety of both the healthcare professionals and patients and their specific characteristics. And at the same time we will approach the analysis of the intrinsic value that these interventions provide from the point of view of both diagnosis and management of these patients. The changing situation of this disease may cause some modifications of the assertions presented in this review in the future.While this guidance seeks to ensure a consistent wide approach, some differences in operational details may be applied due to local regulations.
The moisture dependent physical and mechanical properties of whole lentil pulse and split cotyledon

Some physical and mechanical properties of lentil whole grain/pulse and dhal (dehusked split pulse), at diﬀerent moisture contents were determined. Among the physical properties,size, sphericity, roundness, average surface area, bulk density and void fraction were determined. Bulk densities of whole pulse were between 785 and 831 kg m)3, whereas for dhal they were between 741 and 840 kg m)3 and bulk density decreased as moisture content was increased for both the whole grain and the dhal. The compression behaviour was judged by determining the ﬁrmness and the linear elastic limit, of which the former decreased with moisture content but the linear elastic limit increased. A method is proposed to calculate the total surface area of dhal and whole pulse. Photomicrographs showed the thickness of the outer seed coat to be between 25 and 65 microns.
Light‐Induced Degradation of Polymer:Fullerene Photovoltaic Devices: An Intrinsic or Material‐Dependent Failure Mechanism?

Although degradation mechanisms in organic photovoltaic devices continue to receive increased attention, it is only recently that the initial light‐induced failure, or so‐called burn‐in effect, has been considered. Both prototypical polythiophene:fullerene and polycarbazole:fullerene systems exhibit an exponential performance loss of ≈40% upon 150 h of continuous solar illumination. While the decrease in both the short‐circuit current (JSC) and open‐circuit voltage (VOC) is the origin of performance loss in poly(3‐hexylthiophene):[6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (P3HT:PC60BM), in poly(N‐9′‐hepta‐decanyl‐2,7‐carbazole‐alt‐5,5‐(4′,7′‐di‐2‐thienyl‐2′,1′,3′‐benzothiadiazole)):[6,6]‐phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCDTBT:PC70BM) the decline of the fill factor dominates. By systematic variation of the interface layers, active layer thickness, and acceptor in polythiophene:fullerene cells, the loss in JSC is ascribed to a degradation in the bulk of the P3HT:PC60BM, while the drop in VOC is reversible and arises from charge trapping at the contact interfaces. By replacing the C60 fullerene derivative with a C70 derivative, or by modifying the electron transport layer, the JSC or VOC, respectively, are stabilized. These insights prove that the burn‐in process stems from multiple concurrent failure mechanisms. Comparing the ageing and recovery processes in P3HT and PCDTBT blends results in the conclusion that their interface failures differ in nature and that burn‐in is a material dependent, rather than an intrinsic, failure mechanism.
A Deep Learning Based Approach to Iris Sensor Identification

An efficient iris sensor identification algorithm can be used in certain forensic applications, i.e. detecting mislabeled iris data at large scale iris datasets, and verifying the validity of the data origin of collected iris datasets that are available to be shared. Such knowledge can potentially increase the overall iris recognition system accuracy by offering the operator the option to match same-sensor or cross-sensor iris images. In either case the knowledge of the origin of the sensor used to collect these data, when not available, or the correction of mislabeled data, is expected to result in higher iris matching accuracy. Another benefit of iris sensor identification is that it can assist in improving the detection of fake iris data, i.e. when knowing the iris sensor, we can apply more appropriate models for fake detection that are tuned for a specific iris sensor. In this paper we propose an efficient deep learning-based iris recognition algorithm that is sensor inter-operable. Our approach utilizes a moderate amount of data and is adaptable to learning rate variations as well as variations of the amount of data used for training per class. Our proposed approach uses a set of iris datasets that include iris images captured at different standoff distances. We are using the original captured, dual eye, or periocular images rather than the iris itself, after detecting, segmenting, and normalizing the iris. Thus, the algorithm is efficient, fast, and less depended on additional algorithmic processes that can add computational complexity. Our proposed process includes transfer learning using iris images of higher quality via the utilization of a set of image quality metrics and achieves close to a hundred percent accuracy after cross-validation.
Thin Layer Drying of Black Tea

This paper describes the experiments used to determine the kinetics of tea drying. New thin layer drying apparatus was designed and built to measure the very high rates of drying found at the start of drying, and the results show that the Lewis equation satisfies. The drying rate constant proved to be a linear function of temperature and airflow rate, indicating that tea drying is not only diffusion limited but also a function of convection. The results were validated on independent experiments.
Influence of Plastic Fiber on the Geotechnical Properties of Gypseous Soil

In the last five decades, the rise of the plastic industry led to increase in the waste of plastic in the environment, therefore the scientists were thinking to reduce plastic waste by recycling the plastic. On the other hand, there is a problem of collapse of gypseous collapsible soil upon wetting. In this paper, one of the methods to recycling plastic is adopted to improve the gypseous soil by mixing with 1% plastic fiber to increase the shear strength and improve collapsibility of soil at the state of saturation or soil wetting. The soil used is classified as SW-SM, the gypsum content is 39% and the relative density is equal to 73%. Fiber plastic is made from plastic waste in the environment of investigation. Several tests were conducted on the soil such as collapse test, direct shear test, also model loading test on the soil before and after mixing with fiber plastic. The worst case of gypsum soil is at saturation by rain or groundwater rise which was simulated during the loading test. It was concluded that the value of soil cohesion gradually increases from 2 MPa at the state of the natural soil to 11 MPa after mixing with 1% of plastic fibers. From the three model loading tests, the load carrying capacity of a model footing on submerged gypseous soil increased from 2.66 MPa for untreated soil to 4.8 MPa when the soil is mixed with 1% plastic fiber and extended to a depth of 0.5 B. The earing capacity also increased to 6.8 MPa when the soil is mixed with 1% plastic fiber and extended to a depth of B.