Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Attending to Faces: Change Detection, Familiarization, and Inversion Effects

We tested detection of changes to eye position, eye color (brightness), mouth position, and mouth color in frontal views of faces. Two faces were presented sequentially for 555 ms each, with a blank screen of 120 ms separating the two. Faces were presented either both upright or both inverted. Measures of detection (d') were calculated for several different degrees of change for each of the four dimensions of change. We first compared results to an earlier experiment that used an oddity design, in which subjects indicated which of three simultaneously viewed and otherwise identical faces had been altered on one of these four dimensions. Subjects in both of these experiments were partially cued, in that they knew the four possible types of changes that could occur on a given trial. The change-detection results correlated well with the oddity data. They confirmed that face inversion had little effect upon detection of changes in eye color, a moderate effect upon detection of eye-position or mouth-color changes, and caused a drastic reduction in the detection of mouth-position changes. An experiment in which uncued and fully cued subjects were compared showed that cueing significantly improved detection of feature color changes, but there was little difference between upright and inverted faces. Full cueing eliminated all effects of inversion. Compared to partial cueing, changes in mouth color were poorly detected by uncued subjects. Last, a change in the frequency of the base (unaltered) face in an experiment from 75% to 40% showed that increased short-term familiarity decreased the detection of eye changes and increased the detection of mouth changes, regardless of face orientation and the type of change made (color or position). We conclude that uncued subjects encode the spatial relations of features more than the colors of features, that mouth color in particular is not considered a relevant dimension for encoding, and that familiarization redistributes attention from more to less salient facial regions. Inversion effects are not simply an exaggeration of the salience effects revealed by withdrawing cueing, but represent an interaction of spatial encoding with salience, in that the greatest inversion effects occur for spatial shifts in less salient facial regions, and can be eliminated through the use of focused attention.
Distributed consensus control for linear multi-agent systems with discontinuous observations

This article addresses the distributed consensus problem of linear multi-agent systems with discontinuous observations over a time-invariant undirected communication topology. Under the assumption that each agent can only intermittently share its outputs with the neighbours, a class of distributed observer-type of protocols are designed and utilised to achieve consensus. By using appropriate matrix decomposition, it is shown that consensus in the closed-loop multi-agent systems under a connected topology can be converted to the simultaneous asymptotic stability of a set of switching systems whose dimensions are the same as each agent. From a multiple Lyapunov functions approach, it is proved that there exists a protocol to guarantee consensus if the communication time rate is larger than a threshold value. Furthermore, a distributed pinning control method is employed to solve the consensus problem on an arbitrary given topology which needs not be connected. Particularly, the questions of what kind of agents and at least how many agents should be pinned are addressed. The effectiveness of the analytical results is finally verified by numerical simulations.
Live logic programming

Logic programming languages are today used to build applications accessing large database systems. This raises the possibility of building live development environments for them. Of particular interest is how specific language features such as level of abstraction, transactions, etc. affect the design of such an environment. In this paper, we explore this question for a specific logic language, Datalog, contrast traditional and live approaches for its tooling and discuss issues that arise.
Spontaneous and Evoked Glutamate Release Activates Two Populations of NMDA Receptors with Limited Overlap

In a synapse, spontaneous and action-potential-driven neurotransmitter release is assumed to activate the same set of postsynaptic receptors. Here, we tested this assumption using (+)-5-methyl-10,11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo [a,d] cyclohepten-5,10-imine maleate (MK-801), a well characterized use-dependent blocker of NMDA receptors. NMDA-receptor-mediated spontaneous miniature EPSCs (NMDA-mEPSCs) were substantially decreased by MK-801 within 2 min in a use-dependent manner. In contrast, MK-801 application at rest for 10 min did not significantly impair the subsequent NMDA-receptor-mediated evoked EPSCs (NMDA-eEPSCs). Brief stimulation in the presence of MK-801 significantly depressed evoked NMDA-eEPSCs but only mildly affected the spontaneous NMDA-mEPSCs detected on the same cell. Optical imaging of synaptic vesicle fusion showed that spontaneous and evoked release could occur at the same synapse albeit without correlation between their kinetics. In addition, modeling glutamate diffusion and NMDA receptor activation revealed that postsynaptic densities larger than ∼0.2 μm2 can accommodate two populations of NMDA receptors with nonoverlapping responsiveness. Collectively, these results support the premise that spontaneous and evoked neurotransmissions activate distinct sets of NMDA receptors and signal independently to the postsynaptic side.
AN OBJECT ORIENTED SHELL FOR PROBABILISTICREASONING IN EXPERT SYSTEMSJesus

A new way for representing and reasoning with uncertainty in expert systems is developing, namely Prob-abilistic Networks. Probabilistic networks are graphi-cal structures used for representing expert knowledge, drawing conclusions from input data and explaining the reasoning process to the user. We developed a shell for uncertainty management in expert systems based on Probabilistic Networks. The shell allows the user to deene his probabilistic model in a friendly form, by providing a graphical user interface. It includes technics for probability propagation, parameter learning and evaluation. Using this shell, we are developing two applications , fault diagnosis in electrical networks and Ozone prediction in Mexico City.
Comparison of single-injection ultrasound-guided approach versus multilevel landmark-based approach for thoracic paravertebral blockade for breast tumor resection: a retrospective analysis at a tertiary care teaching institution

Background The role of thoracic paravertebral blockade (TPVB) in decreasing opioid requirements in breast cancer surgery is well documented, and there is mounting evidence that this may improve survival and reduce the rate of malignancy recurrence following cancer-related mastectomy. We compared the two techniques currently in use at our institution, the anatomic landmark-guided (ALG) multilevel versus an ultrasound-guided (USG) single injection, to determine an optimal technique. Methods We retrospectively reviewed records of patients who received TPVB from January 2013 to December 2014. Perioperative opioid use, post anesthesia care unit (PACU) pain scores and length of stay, block performance, and complications were compared between the two groups. Results We found no statistical difference between the two approaches in the studied outcomes. We did find that the number of times attending physicians in the ALG group took over the blocks from residents was significantly greater than that of the USG group (p=0.006) and more local anesthetic was used in the USG group (p=0.04). Conclusion This study compared the ALG approach with the USG approach for patients undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer. Based on our observations, an attending physician is more likely to take over an ALG injection, and more local anesthetic is administered during USG single injection.
High Stability of Recombinant Proteins Expressed in Tobacco Chloroplasts

The green fluorescent protein and the non-toxic subunit of cholera toxin were expressed in tobacco chloro- plasts. Both recombinant proteins accumulated to levels greater than 20% of the total soluble protein. We did not observe light-dependent induction of gene expression despite employing the promoter and 5´-UTR from the psbA gene. Both pro- teins were stable in young and old leaves. The estimated half-life, determined by pulse-chase labeling, was greater than 48 h. Freeze-drying of pulverized leaves supplied an easy method of post-harvest handling with no significant loss of the re- combinant protein after 7 months of storage at room temperature. These data suggest that both proteins are good candi- dates for the expression of fusion proteins (e.g. with antigens) in tobacco chloroplasts.
Communication Patterns over the Project Life Cycle--Evidence from a Virtual Project Exercise

Well functioning communication is vital to the success of projects, especially in virtual or distributed environments. To study how communication evolves over time we studied how students from three different Finnish universities communicated via virtual learning environment (VLE) tool during a joint three month project work exercise, where students worked with real clients. We analyzed over 1000 discussion list messages and came up with seven categories that represent the topics discussed in message board discussions. Most of the messages were task-related, and therefore, there were fewer than expected messages that served social or community building purpose. Most of the messages were sent during the middle phase of the project. In later stages of the project the communication became close to pure information sharing as the percentage of these kinds of messages increased
Use of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and risk of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma: a systematic review and meta‐analysis

Epidemiological study findings regarding the association between use of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and risk of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) have been inconsistent. We aimed to systematically review epidemiological studies of the association and calculate pooled relative risks using meta‐analytic methods. We searched eight electronic literature databases and three clinical trial registers to identify all studies (including observational studies and randomized clinical trials) of the association published prior to October 2013. Identified studies were independently reviewed by two researchers. We used a random effects model to calculate pooled odds ratio (PORs). Heterogeneity amongst studies was examined using Cochran's Q and I‐squared (I2) tests; and sources of heterogeneity were explored using subgroup and meta‐regression analyses. A total of 17 studies (12 case‐control studies and five cohort studies), all adult studies, were included. Use of NSAIDs was not associated with overall risk of NHL [POR = 1.05, and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.90–1.22] or NHL subtypes including B‐cell lymphoma, T‐cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL). Aspirin use was associated with reduced risk of CLL/SLL (POR = 0.70, 95% CI 0.54–0.91) but not with the risk of all NHLs (POR = 1.02, 95% CI 0.89–1.17). Use of non‐aspirin NSAIDs was associated with increased risk of NHL (POR = 1.41, 95% CI 1.01–1.97) amongst females only. The epidemiologic evidence remains inconclusive. Effects of NSAIDs may differ by drug type, NHL subtype, and sex and more studies taking into consideration these differences are needed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A compact monopole antenna for smartphones

A compact monopole antenna with a volume of only 8×32×5 mm3 for smartphones applications is presented. The antenna consists of two meander monopoles, having an S-shape and L-shape, on one side of the substrate and a tuning stub on the other side. Simulated and measured results show that the antenna has a dual-band of 824–960 MHz and 1700–3800 MHz which can cover the frequency bands for the GSM850, GSM900, DCS, PCS and UMTS systems and also Band 40, Band 41, Band 42 and Band 43 in the LTE system. The results in gain, efficiency and radiation pattern are also presented.
Coughing, sneezing, and aching online: Twitter and the volume of influenza-like illness in a pediatric hospital

This study investigates the relation of the incidence of georeferenced tweets related to respiratory illness to the incidence of influenza-like illness (ILI) in the emergency department (ED) and urgent care clinics (UCCs) of a large pediatric hospital. We collected (1) tweets in English originating in our hospital’s primary service area between 11/1/2014 and 5/1/2015 and containing one or more specific terms related to respiratory illness and (2) the daily number of patients presenting to our hospital’s EDs and UCCs with ILI, as captured by ICD-9 codes. A Support Vector Machine classifier was applied to the set of tweets to remove those unlikely to be related to ILI. Time series of the pooled set of remaining tweets involving any term, of tweets involving individual terms, and of the ICD-9 data were constructed, and temporal cross-correlation between the social media and clinical data was computed. A statistically significant correlation (Spearman ρ = 0.23) between tweets involving the term flu and ED and UCC volume related to ILI 11 days in the future was observed. Tweets involving the terms coughing (Spearman ρ = 0.24) and headache (Spearman ρ = 0.19) individually were also significantly correlated to ILI-related clinical volume four and two days in the future, respectively. In the 2014–2015 cold and flu season, the incidence of local tweets containing the terms flu, coughing, and headache were early indicators of the incidence of ILI-related cases presenting to EDs and UCCs at our children’s hospital.
Advanced Aesthetic Facial Rejuvenation: Sculptural Fat Restoration by Autologous Fat Transfer with Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Therapy

Introduction: The aging process uniquely challenges facial aesthetics by inherent variable soft-tissue and structural remodeling. Rejuvenation of the aging face by autologous fat transfer (AFT) enriched with adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) remains a treatment option for volume restoration and contour deficiencies, establishing facial harmony and beauty. Successful outcomes incorporate artistic principles and sound fat-grafting techniques. Materials and Methods: The author presents a review of current scientific PubMed literature and sculptural resources on facial aging, aesthetics, and autologous fat and stem cell grafting and describes advanced fat-grafting techniques for facial rejuvenation. Results: Improved clinical fat graft survivability and aesthetic outcomes have been observed in 50 patients treated by the proposed techniques of autologous fat graft and stem cell recipient bed preparation administered by sculptural fat transplantation. Conclusions: Sculptural fat restoration integrated with AFT and selective ADSC seeding is an important key to facial rejuvenation, producing aesthetically pleasing and lasting results.
Psychological predictors of community violence exposure in ethnic minority male adolescents

Urban, minority males are disproportionately impacted by community violence exposure (ECV). However, person-based analyses have demonstrated variability in rates of ECV, suggesting that demographic risk factors do not always result in increased ECV, and it may be important to examine the utility of psychological factors in this relationship. Research suggests that depressive symptoms may actually exacerbate the risk of ECV. The current study examines the effect of internalizing symptoms on future ECV. Data were derived from a larger longitudinal study of adolescents who had committed a criminal offense. This subset of 184 participants ranged in age from 14-18. Results indicated that higher levels of depressive cognitions predicted more ECV over time, above and beyond demographic variables, somatic symptoms, affective symptoms, and prior levels of ECV. There was no significant indirect relationship between depressive symptoms and ECV. Implications for intervention and further research are discussed.
APP and APLP2 interact with the synaptic release machinery and facilitate transmitter release at hippocampal synapses

The amyloid precursor protein (APP), whose mutations cause familial Alzheimer’s disease, interacts with the synaptic release machinery, suggesting a role in neurotransmission. Here we mapped this interaction to the NH2-terminal region of the APP intracellular domain. A peptide encompassing this binding domain -named JCasp- is naturally produced by a γ-secretase/caspase double-cut of APP. JCasp interferes with the APP-presynaptic proteins interaction and, if linked to a cell-penetrating peptide, reduces glutamate release in acute hippocampal slices from wild-type but not APP deficient mice, indicating that JCasp inhibits APP function.The APP-like protein-2 (APLP2) also binds the synaptic release machinery. Deletion of APP and APLP2 produces synaptic deficits similar to those caused by JCasp. Our data support the notion that APP and APLP2 facilitate transmitter release, likely through the interaction with the neurotransmitter release machinery. Given the link of APP to Alzheimer’s disease, alterations of this synaptic role of APP could contribute to dementia. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.7554/eLife.09743. 001
All‐trans‐retinoic acid stimulates translation and induces spine formation in hippocampal neurons through a membrane‐associated RARα

Differentiation and patterning in the developing nervous system require the vitamin A metabolite all‐trans‐retinoic acid (atRA). Recent data suggest that higher cognitive functions, such as creation of hippocampal memory, also require atRA and its receptors, RAR, through affecting synaptic plasticity. Here we show that within 30 min atRA increased dendritic growth ~ 2‐fold, and PSD‐95 and synaptophysin puncta intensity ~ 3‐fold, in cultured mouse hippocampal neurons, suggesting increased synapse formation. atRA (10 nM) increased ERK1/2 phosphorylation within 10 min. In synaptoneurosomes, atRA rapidly increased phos‐phorylation of ERK1/2, its target 4E‐BP, and p70S6K, and its substrate, ribosome protein S6, indicating activation of MAPK and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Immunofluoresence revealed intense dendritic expression of RARα in the mouse hippocampus and localization of RARα on the surfaces of primary cultures of hippocampal neurons, with bright puncta along soma and neurites. Surface biotinylation confirmed the locus of RARα expression. Knockdown of RARα by shRNA impaired atRA‐induced spine formation and abolished dendritic growth. Prolonged atRA stimulation reduced surface/total RARα by 43%, suggesting internalization, whereas brain‐derived nerve growth factor or bicuculline increased the ratio by ~1.8‐fold. atRA increased translation in the somatodendritic compartment, similar to brain‐derived nerve growth factor. atRA specifically increased dendritic translation and surface expression of the α‐amino‐3‐hydroxyl‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazole propionate receptor (AMPAR) sub‐unit 1 (GluR1), without affecting GluR2. These data provide mechanistic insight into atRA function in the hippocampus and identify a unique membrane‐associated RARα that mediates rapid induction of neuronal translation by atRA. — Chen N. , Napoli J. L. AU‐trαns‐retinoic acid stimulates translation and induces spine formation in hippocampal neurons through a membrane‐associated RARα. FASEB J. 22, 236–245 (2008)
A Bayesian Network Classifier that Combines a Finite Mixture Model and a NaIve Bayes Model

In this paper we present a new Bayesian network model for classification that combines the naive Bayes (NB) classifier and the finite mixture (FM) classifier. The resulting classifier aims at relaxing the strong assumptions on which the two component models are based, in an attempt to improve on their classification performance, both in terms of accuracy and in terms of calibration of the estimated probabilities. The proposed classifier is obtained by superimposing a finite mixture model on the set of feature variables of a naive Bayes model. We present experimental results that compare the predictive performance on real datasets of the new classifier with the predictive performance of the NB classifier and the FM classifier.
Support systems for and barriers to diabetes management in South Asians and Whites in the UK: qualitative study of patients’ perspectives

Objectives To explore experiences of UK-based South Asian and White patients with diabetes in relation to their support systems for and barriers to diabetes management. Design Qualitative study (semistructured interviews analysed using a form of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis). Participants 20 outpatients with diabetes (12 British South Asians and 8 British Whites) with either good or poor glycaemic control. Setting Hillingdon Hospital, Uxbridge, UK. Results Qualitative analysis revealed distinct themes for the two ethnic groups. For the South Asian participants, challenges surrounding diet management and social stigma attached to having diabetes were the two predominant barriers to effective diabetes management. Support from immediate family members was commonly reported as a strong support system for optimising diabetes management by the South Asian sample in addition to the perceived positive impact of religion (healing power of prayer), the valuable informational support from their diabetes-care team, patient leaflets and diabetes magazines. Similar to the South Asians, adhering to dietary recommendations was the most difficult aspect of diabetes management for the White participants followed by the inconveniences surrounding injecting insulin. The hospital diabetes-care team was considered as the most effective support system for diabetes management by the White sample and interestingly, this was the only dominant theme in their reported sources of support. Conclusions Both South Asian and White participants emphasised adherence to dietary recommendations as the most difficult aspect of living with diabetes. In addition, social stigma attached to diabetes was a prominent concern among South Asian participants that seemed to have a significant negative impact on their diabetes control and overall management. Given South Asian patients’ reliance on their family for the management of their condition, interventions targeting improved diabetes outcomes in this population may prove more successful if they are designed to involve significant family members.
Stable real-time deformations

The linear strain measures that are commonly used in real-time animations of deformable objects yield fast and stable simulations. However, they are not suitable for large deformations. Recently, more realistic results have been achieved in computer graphics by using Green's non-linear strain tensor, but the non-linearity makes the simulation more costly and introduces numerical problems.In this paper, we present a new simulation technique that is stable and fast like linear models, but without the disturbing artifacts that occur with large deformations. As a precomputation step, a linear stiffness matrix is computed for the system. At every time step of the simulation, we compute a tensor field that describes the local rotations of all the vertices in the mesh. This field allows us to compute the elastic forces in a non-rotated reference frame while using the precomputed stiffness matrix. The method can be applied to both finite element models and mass-spring systems. Our approach provides robustness, speed, and a realistic appearance in the simulation of large deformations.