Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Palimpsest working memory

Despite its key role in cognition, the mechanisms underlying working memory remain much debated. It has often been observed that human performance on memory tasks is severely limited, but the two main classes of theories examining these limits leave open many key issues into their underlying sources. More specifically, the question of how multiple stimuli are represented and distinguished in visual working memory is still not well understood. As a first attempt at tackling these issues, we introduce a probabilistic palimpsest model which uses the activity of a single population of neurons to encode several multi-featured items. This population is used in a probabilistic framework to store and recall visual stimuli on a trial-by-trial basis, making it possible to account for many qualitative aspects of existing experimental data. In our setting, the underlying nature of a memory item, and the interference between concurrent stimuli, depend entirely on the characteristics of the population representation. We explore how much can be explained about the patterns of errors observed in human reports purely from the representations being used, without explicitly addressing how recall mechanisms could affect it. We provide analytical and numerical insights into critical issues such as multiplicity and binding. We consider different types of population codes, where information about individual feature values is partially separate from the information about binding that creates single items out of multiple features. We find that a tight balance between these two types of information is required to capture the different types of error seen in human experimental data fully. Our model can also be readily extended to sequentially presented data, making full use of our palimpsest construction. This allows us to study and account for experimental data that have not previously been explored extensively. We argue that our work constitutes an important step towards mechanistic models of visual working memory that provide a more holistic account of human responses based on computational principles.
Dynamic Bayesian Ratemaking: A Markov Chain Approximation Approach

We contribute to the non-life experience ratemaking literature by introducing a computationally efficient approximation algorithm for the Bayesian premium in models with dynamic random effects, where the risk of a policyholder is governed by an individual process of unobserved heterogeneity. Although intuitive and flexible, the biggest challenge of dynamic random effect models is that the resulting Bayesian premium typically lacks tractability. In this article, we propose to approximate the dynamics of the random effects process by a discrete (hidden) Markov chain and replace the intractable Bayesian premium of the original model by that of the approximate Markov chain model, for which concise, closed-form formula are derived. The methodology is general because it does not rely on any parametric distributional assumptions and, in particular, allows for the inclusion of both the cost and the frequency components in pricing. Numerical examples show that the proposed approximation method is highly accurate. Finally, a real data pricing example is used to illustrate the versatility of the approach.
Aqueous fullerene C60 solution suppresses herpes simplex virus and cytomegalovirus infections

Abstract Fullerene C60 is known as a promising therapeutic agent due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and other properties, along with the lack of noticeable toxicity. In this article, we describe antiviral properties of aqueous fullerene C60 dispersion (ndC60) produced by biocompatible diafiltration technology and C60 amino derivatives against Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infections. Their activity in vitro was evaluated by a plaque reduction assay using Vero and HF cells in pre- and post-treatment modes. Therapeutic efficacy of dnC60 and C60 derivatives was studied in DBA mice using cutaneous model of HSV-1 infection. Data obtained indicated low cytotoxicity of all used compounds for both cell lines (CC50 > 1 mg/ml). The antiviral activity of dnC60 in most tests exceeded the activity of both C60 amino adducts and acyclovir (ACV), and it demonstrated significant therapeutic effect against HSV-1 skin infection in mice.
Role of Estimation of Serum Ferritin, Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid in Management of Beta Thalassemic Children

Objective: To estimate the levels of serum Ferritin, Vitamin B12 and Folic acid in beta thalassemic children. Introduction: Beta thalassemia is the most common genetically transmitted haematological disorder in Indian children. In thalassemia, there is ineffective erythropoiesis which can be either due to excess iron accumulation, or low vitamin B12 and folate status. Study Design: The case-control study was carried out at G.G. S. Medical College and Hospital, Faridkot in department of Biochemistry in collaboration with department of Paediatrics. Materials and methods: In this case-control study, 50 children with with beta thalassemia major in the age group of 4 to 8 years were studied for estimation of serum ferritin, vitamin B12 and folic acid. The control group consisted of 50 age and sex matched healthy children. Results: The study group had much higher serum ferritin levels as compared to healthy controls (p< 0.001). On other hand, the thalassemic children had much lower vitamin B12 level in comparison with healthy controls (p< 0.001). The folic acid levels were also much lower in thalassemic children as compared to healthy controls (p< 0.001). Conclusion: Biochemical screening for levels of serum ferritin, vitamin B12 and folic acid is of paramount importance in management of thalassemic children. Supplementation of vitamin B12 and folic acid could be helpful to improve erythropoiesis in thalassemic children who have proven deficiency of these vitamins, though further studies are needed to establish this hypothesis.
Effects of defoliation and row spacing on intermediate wheatgrass II: Forage yield and economics

Correspondence Mitchell Hunter, American Farmland Trust, St. Paul, MN 55108 and Dep. of Agronomy and Plant Genetics, Univ. of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA. Email: mitchellchunter@gmail.com Abstract Management systems that produce both grain and biomass coproducts could enhance the profitability of the novel perennial grain crop Kernza intermediate wheatgrass [Thinopyrum intermedium (Host) Barkworth & D.R. Dewey] (IWG). Harvesting IWG for grain typically results in a straw harvest; in addition, vegetative biomass can be cut in spring, fall, or both for hay production. We evaluated the interacting effects of defoliation and row spacing on yield, forage quality, and economic return across the 3-yr life of a conventionally managed IWG stand in St. Paul, MN. We measured straw and hay yield and forage quality and then used recent hay auction results to model forage price and total potential value. We then used estimated production costs to calculate potential net return from straw production alone and with additional hay harvests. Overall, straw was more valuable than hay, despite being of much lower quality, since yields were 3–4 times greater. Straw potential value was similar to the cost of producing both straw and grain, greatly reducing the financial risk in Kernza grain production. Hay production was almost always profitable. Straw and hay yield and value were greater in 15and 30-cm rows than in 61-cm rows. Defoliating in both spring and fall led to lower hay and straw yields in the third year. Our results indicate that the best strategy for achieving consistent high net return to biomass production is to plant in 15or 30-cm rows and only cut hay in the fall.
On tuning the cytotoxicity of Ti3C2 (MXene) flakes to cancerous and benign cells by post-delamination surface modifications

Despite intensive research on the application of two-dimensional (2D) materials, including MXenes, in nanomedicine, the knowledge concerning the mechanisms responsible for their observed bio-effects is far from being understood. Here we present insight into the mechanism of toxicity in vitro of the 2D Ti3C2 MXene. The most important results of this work are that using simple, inexpensive, post-delamination treatments, such as ultrasonication or mild thermal oxidation it is possible to ‘tune’ the cytotoxicity of the Ti3C2Tz flakes. Sonication of Ti3C2Tz flakes, or sonication followed by mild oxidation in the water at 60 °C, renders them selectively toxic to cancer cells as compared to non-malignant ones. It relates to the appearance of superficial titanium (III) oxide (Ti2O3) layer corresponding to the type of post-treatment. The presence of surface-Ti2O3 results in a noticeably higher generation of oxidative stress compared to pristine 2D Ti3C2. Our findings give evidence that the sonication and thermal treatments were successful in changing the nature of the surface terminations on the Ti3C2Tz surfaces. This study makes a significant contribution to the future rationalized surface-management of 2D Ti3C2 MXene as well as encourages new rationalized applications in biotechnology and nanomedicine. Bullet points: 1. First study on 2D Ti3C2 MXene superficially oxidized to titanium (III) oxide i.e. Ti2O3. 2. By sonication Ti3C2Tz MXene flakes followed by mild thermal oxidation in the water at 60 °C for 24 h, it is possible to ‘tune’ the toxicity of the flakes to cancerous cell lines. 3. Decreases in cell viabilities were dose-dependent. 4. Highest cytotoxic effect was observed for thermally oxidized samples. 5. The thermally oxidized samples were also selectively toxic towards all cancerous cell lines up to 375 mg l−1. 6. Reactive oxygen species generation was identified as a mechanism of toxicity.
اثر لیزر کم توان بردرد حاد پس از عمل جراحی ساق پا The effect of low-level laser on acute postoperative pain after tibial fracture surgery

مقدمه پیش زمینه :درد حاد پس از عمل از عوارض شایعی است که می تواند منجر به عوارض جدی و تاخیر در بهبودی گردد. هدف مطالعه :هدف از انجام این مطالعه بررسی اثر لیزر کم توان بر درد حاد پس از عمل جراحی ساق پا بود. روش کار در این مطالعه 54 بیمار کاندید عمل جراحی ساق پا به صورت تصادفی به دو گروه کنترل و مداخله تقسیم شدند. بی حسی اسپاینال و روش انجام جراحی در هر دو گروه مشابه بود. گروه مداخله پس از پایان جراحی تحت تابش لیزر کم توان قرمز و مادون قرمز قرار گرفتند درحالیکه گروه کنترل تحت تابش لیزر خاموش قرار گرفتند. میزان مصرف مخدر و شدت درد پس از عمل ( با مقیاس VAS)، در ساعات 2، 4، 8، 12و 24 و زمان دریافت اولین مسکن ارزیابی شد. نتایج نتایج تحقیق ما نشان داد که به دنبال تابش لیزر در محل جراحی پس انجام جراحی ارتوپدی ساق پا، درد درساعات4،8،12 و24 پس از عمل نسبت به گروهی که لیزر دریافت نکردند به طور معناداری کاهش یافت. ( به ترتیب، 020/0=p، 014/0=p، 011/0=p، 032/0=P). میانگین کل مسکن (پتدین) دریافتی در گروه دریافت کننده ی لیزرmg) 44.63±60.61( نسبت به گروه کنترل (44.07±85.95) به طور قابل توجهی کم تر بود (043/0= p). همچنین زمان اولین نیاز به دریافت مسکن (پتدین) در گروهی که تحت تابش لیزر قرار گرفتند (61.8±230.4) دقیقه نسبت به گروه کنترل (10.2±112.8) دقیقه به طور معناداری طولانی تر بود (030/0 = p). بحث و نتیجه گیری لیزر کم توان یک روش مناسب برای کاهش درد پس از عمل است زیرا غیر تهاجمی، بدون درد و ایمن بوده و به راحتی توسط بیماران پذیرفته می شود. The effect of low-level laser on acute postoperative pain after tibial fracture surgery: a prospective double blind randomized clinical trial Background: Postoperative pain is a common complication that can lead to serious morbidities and delayed recovery. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) on acute pain after tibial fracture surgery. Material and Methods: In this randomized clinical trial 54 patients candidate for tibial fracture surgery were divided randomly into two groups of control and laser. Both groups had a similar type of surgery and the same technique of spinal anesthesia. Patients in laser group were radiated with the combination of 2 lasers (GaALAs: 808 nm and GaALInP: 650nm) at the end of the surgery while the control group received placebo laser. Patients were followed for pain intensity according to the visual analogue scale (VAS), the time to first analgesic request and total analgesic use for 24 hours after surgery. Results: The laser group experienced lower pain intensity compared to the control group at 4, 8, 12, and 24 hours after surgery (P-value< 0.05). In addition, the used amount of opioid in the laser group (60.61±44.63 mg) was considerably lower than the control group (85.95±44.07 mg) (P-value=0.043). Moreover, the time for first analgesic request in the laser group (230.4±61.8 minutes) was later than the control group (112.8±10.2 minutes) (P-value=0.03). Conclusions: Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a proper method to reduce postoperative pain because it is painless, safe, non-invasive and can be easily accepted by patients.
Floristic Diversity Status Assessment of Lichens from Dima Hasao District, North East, India

An enumeration of 142 species of lichens belonging to 60 genera and 27 families from Dima Hasao district in North East region is provided. The present study supplemented 98 species new to the lichen biota of Assam. The study added one new record of basidiolichen [Multiclavula vernalis (Schw.) Petersen] to the lichen biota of India. The lichen genus Graphis with 21 species exhibit its dominance in the area followed by Pyrenula and Parmotrema with nine and eight species respectively. Among the different localities in the area Umrangso towards Khundog showed maximum diversity of lichens represented by 58 species followed by the locality in and around circuit house, represented by 42 species. The dominance of Graphidioid community in the area indicates an evergreen open canopy forest as well as the presence of smooth bark trees in the region.
Aerobic bacteria and fungal isolates in maxillary sinusitis of adults in a resource poor environment

Background: Infective rhinosinusitis is a common clinical condition which if left unattended to could result in various degrees of both morbidity and mortality. We aimed to identify aerobic and fungal organisms implicated in acute and chronic maxillary sinusitis and determine their antibiotic sensitivity patterns among adults in South Western Nigeria. Materials and methods: This was a cross sectional study of adults with clinical and radiological diagnosis of maxillary sinusitis treated at the University College Hospital, Ibadan over a period of one-year. Semi- structured questionnaire was administered to each consented adult to obtain relevant demographic and clinical data. Maxillary antral proof puncture was done to obtain specimen for microscopy, culture and sensitivity for aerobic bacterial and fungal isolates. Descriptive statistics was used in the data analysis. Results: Seventy-nine patients (49.4% males and 50.6% females) with acute maxillary sinusitis (17.7%), and chronic maxillary sinusitis (82.3%) were recruited into the study. The mean age of the patients was 32.9 years (SD=12.78; Range: 19- 59). All patients presented with rhinorrhea while 92.8% had nasal obstruction. Fifty eight (73.4%) patients had history of antibiotic usage before presentation. Eight (57.1%) of the specimens from acute maxillary sinusitis cases and 40 (61.5%) of the specimens from chronic maxillary sinusitis yielded significant growth of bacteria and fungi respectively while 2 (3.5%) yielded mixed bacterial growth. Organisms commonly isolated from these specimens were Streptococcus pneumonia , Staphylococcus aureus , Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Haemophilus influenzae , and Aspergillus spp. The bacteria isolates were sensitive to Amoxicillin, Ciprofloxacin, Perfloxacin, Sparfloxacin and Ceftriaxone. Conclusion: The leading aerobic bacterial isolates from acute and chronic maxillary sinusitis were Streptococcus pneumonia and Staphylococcus aureus respectively. Fungal infections are seen only in chronic cases. It is recommended that where there are no microbiologic laboratory facilities, any of Ciprofloxacin, Perfloxacin, Sparfloxacin, and Amoxicillin can be administered empirically to treat infective maxillary sinusitis. Keywords: Aerobic bacteria, Fungus, Maxillary sinus, Rhinosinusitis
Nursing Professional Ethics Education Using a Superior Method- Lecture or Multimedia -

Professional ethics implies abiding by ethical standards of nursing profession; to achieve this, there is a need for an appropriate method of teaching ethics. The aim of this study is to select a preferred method to train nursing professional ethics. A quasi-experimental study of two groups of before and after was used while nursing students were trained into two groups of multimedia software and Lecture. At first, all students were selected based on a census method; then random assignment was used to allocate them to the two groups. The number of samples in each group was 30. Using the nursing professional ethics questionnaire and after verifying the content validity and reliability, the tests were performed in three time spans of before training, immediately after training and four weeks after training. Data analysis was performed using t-test and variance analysis via SPSS software version 20. No statistically significant difference was observed between sex, academic semester, field interest, and knowledge but statistically significant difference was observed between age(p=0/000). The findings a statistically significant difference in mean scores of pre-test and post-test in multimedia group (p=0.025), mean scores of post-test in multimedia and durability of multimedia (p=0.001) and mean score of durability in Lecture and multimedia (p=0.009). Multimedia method is indicated to be more effective to teach professional ethics and can be used as such.
Predicting child abuse potential during pregnancy

This study examined how mothers’ perceptions of their childhood relationships with their mothers, expectations about being a mother, demographic characteristics, and perceptions of social support are related to a woman’s child abuse potential during pregnancy. Data were collected during an initial interview with women during their third trimester of pregnancy as part of a larger longitudinal study. One hundred twenty highrisk women between the ages of 18 and 42 were recruited through fliers from public locations and pregnancy-related programs in southeastern Michigan to participate in this study. Results showed that perceptions of a higher quality childhood relationship with one’s mother, and perceptions of childhood experiences of low maternal acceptance, were negatively correlated with child abuse potential. A composite of demographic risk factors including being less than 20 years of age, being near poverty, having more than 3 children, being unmarried, having completed high school or less, and not being enrolled in public assistance programs when eligible was positively correlated with child abuse potential. Social support did not moderate relationships between perceptions of childhood relationship with mothers and child abuse potential or between demographic risk and child abuse potential. Instead, it was directly associated with child abuse potential above and beyond these two predictors. Moderate, realistic expectations about having a baby (as opposed to extremely positive or negative expectations) were not correlated with lower child abuse potential. Results from this study have important implications for intervention programs to prevent child abuse.
Skin Debris on the Hairs of Holy Maria-Magdalena: A SEM-EDX Analysis

We have found, by SEM observations and EDX-analyses, numerous skin debris kept on the surfaces of the hairs of Maria-Magdalena. Some of them are of very recent origin, but most are more ancient. A few of them, located near cut extremities of hairs, are those of the fingers that cut these hairs (that were initially longer). Some of these skin debris are dirty or/and salted. We observed also on some hairs quasi-intact dandruff piles. We have determined the soap (a â€œblack soapâ€ , potassium-rich) that washed the hairs. Finally we have found among hairs and studied in details two samples of epidermal micro-plaques, two pieces of skin shreds (one of them being conserved by salt), and one sample of scalp shred containing osseous material.
Children’s perspectives on the use of robotics for second language
 learning in the early years of primary education: a pilot study

This paper explores how floor programmable robotics can be used during play to promote language development. This paper describes a two-day pilot in two early years classrooms and presents data collected on children’s perception of the Irish language and using robotics. A sample of 48 children (age range six to seven years) took part in a robotics activity using a bee-shaped robot, called Beebot. The activity was orientated around the children’s second language, Irish. The children took part in a questionnaire before and after the activity about the language and the use of the robot in promoting their use of the language. Data was also collected through video, photos, a focus group, and the teacher’s observations. The main finding of the pilot study was an increase in children’s positive responses towards using the language when integrated into a robotics play activity.
Relationship between Service Quality on Public Health Center and Patient Satisfaction

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between services quality on public health center and patient satisfaction in Kutai Kartanegara Regency, Indonesia. METHOD: This research used pilot pathfinder survey, which was done on February 23 rd -25 th 2017 in Kutai Kartanegara Regency, Indonesia. Two questionnaires were used in the study. During the data collection, there were 192 patients from the health service center, it was consisted two locations representing the urban and rural area in order to describe the quality of health service towards the patients’ satisfaction. In order to investigate the correlation between the quality of health service and patient satisfaction, Pearson correlation test was conducted. RESULT : The highest score regarding of the service quality was on the dimension of the doctors and pharmacy were 99.5%. The lowest level of patients’ satisfaction on assurance and empathy dimension were 10.4%. There was a significance between the service quality of the doctors, nurses, pharmacy, and the administrators towards the patients’ satisfaction. The highest score of the coefficient correlation on the nurse dimension was 0.273, which means that the nurses were giving good services quality and it affects the people’s satisfaction. CONCLUSION: A good service quality believes would affect the people’s satisfaction which generally affects people’s decision to choose health service provider. Health service center is expected to increase their environmental condition, and the professionalism of the nurses and registration officers in terms of their awareness and performance in order to create better services.