Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Modern Approaches to Paleolithic Archaeology in Europe—A Sampler of Research Traditions

As someone long interested in the logic of inference underlying knowledge claims in Paleolithic archaeology—perforce an Old World pursuit—American Antiquity reviews editor Doug Bamforth asked me to prepare an essay on five recently published monographs that sample some of the research traditions of Europe (those of France, Scandinavia, Germany, Poland, Belgium). In what follows, I first summarize the contents of these richly detailed and illustrated books—mostly site reports—and then offer some observations about the practice of Stone Age archaeology in western and central Europe as glimpsed through the lens of intellectual traditions that depart to some extent from the broadly defined ecological approaches in vogue in the United States today. Two of the books are French, published in the Documents d'Archeologie Francaise (DAF) series by the Maison des Sciences de 1'Homme, a dependency of two ministries (Culture & Communication; Youth, Education & Research), the Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (the French NSF), and the Institut National de Recherches Arqueologiques Preventives (the national salvage archaeology organization). Both are highway salvage reports, both are similarly organized, and both reflect the strong natural science approaches that have dominated French paleolithic archaeology for more than a century.
Suppressive recurrent and feedback computations for adaptive processing in the human brain

Humans and animals are known to adapt to the statistics of the environment by reducing brain responses to repetitive sensory information. Despite the importance of this rapid form of brain plasticity for efficient information processing, the fine-scale circuits that support this adaptive processing in the human brain remain largely unknown. Here, we capitalize on the sub-millimetre resolution afforded by ultra-high field (UHF) imaging to examine BOLD-fMRI signals across cortical depth and discern competing hypotheses about the brain mechanisms (feedforward vs. feedback) that mediate visual adaptation. Combining UHF imaging with a visual adaptation paradigm comprising repeated presentation of gratings at the same orientation, we provide evidence for the fine-scale human brain circuits that mediate adaptive visual processing. We demonstrate that visual adaptation is implemented by suppressive local recurrent processing within visual cortex, as indicated by stronger BOLD decrease in superficial than middle and deeper layers. Further, functional connectivity analysis shows dissociable connectivity mechanisms for adaptive processing: feedforward connectivity within the visual cortex, while feedback connectivity from posterior parietal to visual cortex, reflecting top-down influences (i.e. expectation for repeated stimuli) on visual processing. Thus, our findings provide evidence for a circuit of local recurrent and feedback interactions that mediate rapid brain plasticity for adaptive information processing.
Electrical and humidity sensing properties of synthesized hydrophosphoric acid doped polyaniline

H3PO4 doped polyaniline was synthesized by a single-step chemical polymerization method using ammonium persulfate as an oxidizing agent. The material characterization was done by SEM, UV–vis spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The pellets of the synthesized material were used to study the electrical properties, using a four-probe method. The room temperature electrical conductivity is found to be 0.2201 S/cm. The electrical resistance in response to the varying humid environment (ranging between 20 and 100% RH) is recorded to evaluate the sensitivity of the H3PO4 polyaniline samples toward humidity. The resistance of the samples is found to vary by three orders of magnitude for 20–100% RH and is found to decrease with increasing humidity. The response and recovery time are observed to be 12–14 and 26–30 sec, respectively. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Data on the Velocity Slip and Temperature Jump on a Gas-Solid Interface

The present review is dedicated to the velocity slip and temperature jump coefficients applied to modeling of gas flows. Such coefficients are used when a moderate gas rarefaction must be taken into account. In this case, calculations of gas flows can be performed on the basis of continuum mechanics equations applying the velocity slip and temperature jump boundary conditions. Thus, the velocity slip and temperature jump coefficients have the same importance in gas dynamics as the transport coefficients such as viscosity, thermal conductivity, and diffusion coefficients. A critical analysis of theoretical and experimental data on the slip and jump coefficients available in the open literature is presented in an accessible form so that it can be easily understandable for nonspecialists in rarefied gas dynamics. The most reliable results are selected and tabulated. The results cover a single gas with the complete and noncomplete accommodation on a solid surface, gaseous mixtures, and polyatomic gases. Many examples of applications of the slip and jump boundary conditions are given. The review will be useful as a reference for mathematicians, physicists, and engineers dealing with flows of moderately rarefied gases.
Unified Framework for Polynomial-Time Wiretap Channel Codes.

This paper presents a construction of wiretap channel codes, whose encoding and decoding complexity is polynomial in the number of channel uses $N$. More specifically, the complexity is equivalent to the complexity of field multiplication in GF($2^N$). Appropriate choices of the construction parameters yield, within a unified framework, the achievability of the secrecy capacities of (i) Wyner's wiretap channel, (ii) the wiretap channel of type II, (iii) the wiretap channel of type II with noisy main channel, (iv) the hybrid Wyner's/type II wiretap channel, and the best known single-letter achievable secrecy rates for (v) the compound wiretap channel, (vi) the wiretap channel when the eavesdropper's channel statistics are arbitrarily varying. Results are obtained for strong secrecy, do not require a pre-shared secret between the legitimate users, and do not require any symmetry or degradation assumptions on the channel (except for Model (vi), which requires the existence of a best channel for the eavesdropper). The underlying construction idea is to decouple the reliability and security constraints, using polar codes to deal with the reliability constraint(s) and universal hashing to deal with the security constraint(s).
Synthetic Routes to Stimuli‐Responsive Micelles, Vesicles, and Surfaces via Controlled/Living Radical Polymerization

Controlled/living polymerization (CLRP) techniques have recently been developed that offer unprecedented opportunities for synthesis of materials with precisely tailored nano‐ and micro‐scale features. This account focuses on significant developments in the field of stimuli‐responsive block copolymers with immediate and future utility in advanced formulation and surface science. Specifically, stable free radial polymerization (SFRP), atom transfer polymerization (ATRP), and reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization techniques for preparation of responsive micelles and vesicles, stabilized nanoparticles, thin films, polymer brushes, and other ordered structures are described. Conformational changes in response to external stimuli are manifested in changes in physiochemical properties including surface wetting, adsorption, adhesion, lubricity, and permeability. *Paper number 120 in a series entitled Water Soluble Polymers.
Minimal model of many-body localization

We present a fully analytical description of a many body localization (MBL) transition in a microscopically defined model. Its Hamiltonian is the sum of one- and two-body operators, where both contributions obey a maximum-entropy principle and have no symmetries except hermiticity (not even particle number conservation). These two criteria paraphrase that our system is a variant of the Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev (SYK) model. We will demonstrate how this simple `zero-dimensional' system displays numerous features seen in more complex realizations of MBL. Specifically, it shows a transition between an ergodic and a localized phase, and non-trivial wave function statistics indicating the presence of `non-ergodic extended states'. We check our analytical description of these phenomena by parameter free comparison to high performance numerics for systems of up to $N=15$ fermions. In this way, our study becomes a testbed for concepts of high-dimensional quantum localization, previously applied to synthetic systems such as Cayley trees or random regular graphs. We believe that this is the first many body system for which an effective theory is derived and solved from first principles. The hope is that the novel analytical concepts developed in this study may become a stepping stone for the description of MBL in more complex systems.
An M* Proxy for Sparse Recovery Performance.

This paper provides a new tractable lower bound for the sparse recovery threshold of sensing matrices. This lower bound is used as a proxy to quantify the quality of sensing matrices in two different applications. First, it serves as regularization for the classical dictionary learning problem in order to learn dictionaries with better generalisation properties on unseen data. Then, the proxy is used to design sampling schemes for MRI acquisition that exhibit high reconstruction performances.
A Theoretical Study of Bulk Tungsten (W) Based on Momentum Transfer (-Dependent)

The ground state electronic properties of bulk (W) were studied within the density functional theory (DFT). We have also analyzed the momentum- (q-) dependent loss function, dielectric constant, and optical conductivity (OC) within TD-DFT random-phase approximation (RPA). The loss function is plotted in the energy range 0–55 eV. The energy loss function spectrum shows four prominent peaks, two lower peaks below along with two sharp peaks above 30 eV. The different nature of peaks depends on the momentum transfer q. The peak caused by interband transition showed a less pronounced dispersion. From the dielectric function curve we have predicted the plasmon excitation at around 1.75 eV and calculated the corresponding plasma frequency s−1.
Analysis of associative memory operation in a VLSI spiking neural network

—We have developed a VLSI spiking neural network based on the integrate-and-ﬁre neuron model with spike-timing dependent synaptic plasticity (STDP), and have demonstrated associative memory operation in a Hopﬁeld-type feedback spiking neural network with memorization of patterns using symmetric STDP. In this paper we analyze spike output patterns of association results by considering the eﬀects of excitatory and inhibitory post-synaptic potentials to generation of the internal potential in a neuron.
Withanone from Withania somnifera May Inhibit Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Entry by Disrupting Interactions between Viral S-Protein Receptor Binding Domain and Host ACE2 Receptor

Background Newly emerged COVID-19 has been shown to engage the host cell ACE2 through its spike protein receptor binding domain (RBD). Here we show that natural phytochemical from a medicinal herb, Withania somnifera, have distinct effects on viral RBD and host ACE2 receptor complex. Methods We employed molecular docking to screen thousands of phytochemicals against the ACE2-RBD complex, performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, and estimated the electrostatic component of binding free energy, along with the computation of salt bridge electrostatics. Results We report that W. somnifera compound, Withanone, docked very well in the binding interface of AEC2-RBD complex, and was found to move slightly towards the interface centre on simulation. Withanone significantly decreased electrostatic component of binding free energies of ACE2-RBD complex. Two salt bridges were also identified at the interface; incorporation of Withanone destabilized these salt bridges and decreased their occupancies. We postulate, such an interruption of electrostatic interactions between the RBD and ACE2 would block or weaken COVID-19 entry and its subsequent infectivity. Conclusion Our data, for the first time, show that natural phytochemicals could well be the viable options for controlling COVID-19 entry into host cells, and W. somnifera may be the first choice of herbs in these directions to curb the COVID-19 infectivity.
State Railway of Thailand Employee Performance: A Structural Equation Model Analysis

Dropping from a peak of 88 million riders in 1994, Thailand’s state railway system today is only transporting 35 million passengers annually. Operations run at a loss, with infrastructure and aged equipment contributing to significant delays, and a continuing loss of passengers. However, in September 2017, a new 20-year US$81.57 billion plan was introduced to save the State Railway of Thailand [SRT] from its death spiral. Given the magnitude of the problem, this study aims to analyze employee performance of SRT civil servants. Using multi-stage random sampling, 360 individuals were selected; through a five-level, Likert type agreement scale questionnaire, 54 items concerning their characteristics, their perspectives on SRT’s organizational culture, human resource management processes, the SRT’s total quality management program, and their effect on employee performance were analyzed. From the data, LISREL 9.1 was used to conduct a confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation model to analyze the results. The structural equation model [SEM] results showed that all the causal factors in the model were shown to have a positive influence on SRT employee performance, which is explained by the variance of factors influencing SRT employee performance (R2) by 92%. Ranked in importance, the results determined that human resources [HR=0.96], had the most significant impact on employee performance [EP], followed by total quality management [TQM=0.45], and finally, organizational culture [OC=0.37].
A crystallization plate for controlling evaporation in hanging drops

The modification and use of a crystallization plate for controlling the evaporation in hanging-drop trials is described. In this plate, known as the Nextal Crystallization Tool, each well is sealed by a screw cap that incorporates the cover-slip. Graduation marks were introduced on the outer circumference of the wells to enable accurate and reproducible adjustment of the tightness of the seal on the well. This design allows variable amounts of evaporation without exposing the drop. Crystallization experiments of α-crustacyanin from lobster shell, for which controlled evaporation was applied to regulate the number and size of the crystals, are presented.
Cyanide poisoning: Mass spectrometric analysis of forensic evidences

Cyanide poisoning may result from a variety of exposures including structural fires, industrial exposures, medical exposures and certain plant products. Cyanide poisoning cases may be accidental and intentional motivated by suicidal or homicidal purposes. Cyanogenic plant toxicity is one of the most common plant poisonings among the grazing livestock. Such cases are occasionally reported and investigated for medico legal, police and forensic settings. Forensic evidences, such as stomach contents and whole blood of the victims, are usually collected and analysed in order to confirm the cause of death. Various analytical techniques have been suggested for the toxicological detection and measurement of hydrocyanic acid (syn. hydrogen cyanide, prussic acid, HCN) and its metabolites from biological and environmental samples. However. the volatility and reactivity of cyanide leaves direct measurements highly susceptible to errors introduced during the sample collection and separation step. An alternative approach, that can help to minimize false positive and false negative results, is to detect stable biomarkers of cyanide metabolism, rather than cyanide itself. Some studies proved 2-aminothiazoline-4-carboxylicacid (ATCA) to be a stable cyanide metabolite and thus ATCA has been considered a promising biomarker for cyanide poisoning. Some important aspects of cyanide poisoning and its detection, mainly by mass spectrometric methods, are discussed in this article.
Structural Characterization of Two CO Molecules Bound to the Nitrogenase Active Site

Abstract As an approach towards unraveling the nitrogenase mechanism, we have studied the binding of CO to the active‐site FeMo‐cofactor. CO is not only an inhibitor of nitrogenase, but it is also a substrate, undergoing reduction to hydrocarbons (Fischer–Tropsch‐type chemistry). The C−C bond forming capabilities of nitrogenase suggest that multiple CO or CO‐derived ligands bind to the active site. Herein, we report a crystal structure with two CO ligands coordinated to the FeMo‐cofactor of the molybdenum nitrogenase at 1.33 Å resolution. In addition to the previously observed bridging CO ligand between Fe2 and Fe6 of the FeMo‐cofactor, a new ligand binding mode is revealed through a second CO ligand coordinated terminally to Fe6. While the relevance of this state to nitrogenase‐catalyzed reactions remains to be established, it highlights the privileged roles for Fe2 and Fe6 in ligand binding, with multiple coordination modes available depending on the ligand and reaction conditions.
A comparative analysis on different enzyme immobilization nanomaterials: Progress, constraints, and recent trends.

Immobilization techniques have been popularly used to preserve the operational stability of the enzymes for industrial applications. The three main components of an immobilized enzyme system are the enzyme, the matrix/support, and the technique of immobilization. So far different supports have been developed to improve the efficiency of the immobilized enzymes. But in the recent decade, nanotechnology has been considerable research interest in the field of immobilized enzyme carriers. The materials at the nano-scale due to their unique physicochemical properties including; specific surface area, mass transfer limitation, and effective enzyme loading, are considered as interesting matrices for enzyme immobilization. This review describes techniques employed to immobilize enzymes and provides an integrated focus on the most common nanoparticles for enzyme conjugation. Additionally, the pros and cons of nanoparticles as immobilization matrices are also discussed. Depending on the type of enzyme and its application, in this review, the researchers are directed to select an appropriate method and support for enzyme immobilization in terms of enzyme stability and functionality.
Downregulation of the tyrosine degradation pathway extends Drosophila lifespan

Aging is characterized by extensive metabolic reprogramming. To identify metabolic pathways associated with aging, we analyzed age-dependent changes in the metabolomes of long-lived Drosophila melanogaster. Among the metabolites that changed, levels of tyrosine were increased with age in long-lived flies. We demonstrate that the levels of enzymes in the tyrosine degradation pathway increase with age in wild-type flies. Whole-body and neuronal-specific downregulation of enzymes in the tyrosine degradation pathway significantly extends Drosophila lifespan, causes alterations of metabolites associated with increased lifespan, and upregulates the levels of tyrosine-derived neuromediators. Moreover, feeding wild-type flies with tyrosine increased their lifespan. Mechanistically, we show that suppression of ETC complex I drives the upregulation of enzymes in the tyrosine degradation pathway, an effect that can be rescued by tigecycline, an FDA-approved drug that specifically suppresses mitochondrial translation. In addition, tyrosine supplementation partially rescued lifespan of flies with ETC complex I suppression. Altogether, our study highlights the tyrosine degradation pathway as a regulator of longevity.
Interventions used by allied health professionals in sexual rehabilitation after stroke: A systematic review

ABSTRACT Background: Although sexuality can be affected post-stroke, few individuals receive sexual rehabilitation because of clinicians’ lack of knowledge regarding evidence-based interventions. Objective: To document and describe the best available evidence supporting interventions that target post-stroke rehabilitation of sexuality. Methods: This systematic review searched the databases Medline, Embase, Psycinfo, CINAHL, Web of science, PEDRO and OTSeeker up to 29 May 2020. Inclusion criteria were: published studies with a sample composed of ≥ 50% stroke clients and describing an intervention that could be applied by an allied health professional. Data was extracted according to the PRISMA guidelines by two independent reviewers. Interventions were described according to the Template for intervention description and replication checklist. Results: Among the 2446 articles reviewed, 8 met the inclusion criteria. Two randomized controlled trials (RCT) and one non-RCT showed improvement in sexual functioning and satisfaction following a 30–45-minute structured rehabilitation program. Two other RCT showed significant improvement in sexual functioning with physical therapy oriented toward 1) structured physical and verbal sexual counseling and 2) pelvic floor muscle training. Three studies showed that interdisciplinary sexual rehabilitation improved satisfaction and sexual functioning; implementation of an interview script for clinicians improved the proportion of clients who addressed sexuality from 0 to 80% in 10 months; and two-day couple retreats improved perceived intimacy between couples. Conclusions: This review highlights promising interventions that could orient future research and improve the access to sexual rehabilitation services for post-stroke, with structured sexual rehabilitation and pelvic floor muscle training being the most strongly supported.
Determination of the vRNA and cRNA promoter activity by M segment-specific non-coding nucleotides of influenza A virus

ABSTRACT Eight-segmented, negative-sense, single-stranded genomic RNAs of influenza A virus are terminated with 5′ and 3′ untranslated regions (UTRs). All segments have highly conserved extremities of 13 and 12 nucleotides at the 5′ and 3′ UTRs, respectively, constructing the viral RNA (vRNA) promoter. Adjacent to the duplex stem of 3 base pairs (bps) between the two conserved strands, additional 1–4 bps are existing in a segment-specific manner. We investigated the roles of the matrix (M) segment-specific base pair between the 14th nucleotide uridine (U14′) of the 5′ UTR and the 13th nucleotide adenosine (A13) of the 3′ UTR by preparing possible vRNA promoters, named vXY, as well as cRNA promoters, named cYX. We analysed their RNA-dependent RNA replication efficiency using the minigenome replicon system and an enzyme assay system in vitro with synthetic RNA promoters. Notably, in contrast to vAC(s) that is a synthetic vRNA promoter with A14′ and C13, base-pair disruption at the complementary RNA (cRNA) promoter in cAC(s), which has A13′ and C14, not only reduced viral RNA replication in cells but also impaired de novo initiation of unprimed vRNA synthesis. Reverse genetics experiments confirmatively exhibited that this breakage in the cRNA promoter affected the rescue of infectious virus. The present study suggests that the first segment-specific base pair plays an essential role in generating infectious viruses by regulating the promoter activity of cRNA rather than vRNA. It could provide insights into the role of the segment-specific nucleotides in viral genome replication for sustainable infection.