Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Lingam: Non-Gaussian Methods for Estimating Causal Structures

In many empirical sciences, the causal mechanisms underlying various phenomena need to be studied. Structural equation modeling is a general framework used for multivariate analysis, and provides a powerful method for studying causal mechanisms. However, in many cases, classical structural equation modeling is not capable of estimating the causal directions of variables. This is because it explicitly or implicitly assumes Gaussianity of data and typically utilizes only the covariance structure of data. In many applications, however, non-Gaussian data are often obtained, which means that more information may be contained in the data distribution than the covariance matrix is capable of containing. Thus, many new methods have recently been proposed for utilizing the non-Gaussian structure of data and estimating the causal directions of variables. In this paper, we provide an overview of such recent developments in causal inference, and focus in particular on the non-Gaussian methods known as LiNGAM.
The Design of Touch-Screen Display System based on DSP

: T his paper takes TMS320C6748 as the core,it achieve the real-time display of EMG signals by the design of real-time control system SYS/BIOS and touch screen module, the real-time processing of the EMG signal acquisition and EMG feedback on the touch screen can help users understand the EMG signals by means of human-computer interaction, and it makes people to achieve the real-time monitoring and analysis of the EMG signal.
Procrustes analysis for diffusion tensor image processing

There is an increasing need to develop processing tools for diffusion tensor image data with the consideration of the non-Euclidean nature of the tensor space. In this paper Procrustes analysis, a non-Euclidean shape analysis tool under similarity transformations (rotation, scaling and translation), is proposed to redefine sample statistics of diffusion tensors. A new anisotropy measure Procrustes Anisotropy (PA) is defined with the full ordinary Procrustes analysis. Comparisons are made with other anisotropy measures including Fractional Anisotropy and Geodesic Anisotropy. The partial generalized Procrustes analysis is extended to a weighted generalized Procrustes framework for averaging sample tensors with different fractions of contributions to the mean tensor. Applications of Procrustes methods to diffusion tensor interpolation and smoothing are compared with Euclidean, Log-Euclidean and Riemannian methods.
A Study of New Material of Crocuta crocuta ultima (Carnivora: Hyaenidae) from the Quaternary of Taiwan

New material of the Pleistocene Chinese hyaenid Crocuta crocuta ultima are described from the Penghu Trench off the shores of western Taiwan in the Taiwan Strait. Earlier studies of Penghu fossil mammals outlined a modest fauna including Palaeoloxodon naumanni of the Proboscidea; Equus ferus przewaskii of the Perissodactyla; Elaphurus menziesianus and Bubalus teihardi of the Artiodactyla; and Nyctereutes procyonoides (Canidae), Ursus arctos (Ursidae), C. c. ultima (Hyaenidae), and Panthera tigris (Felidae) of the Carnivora. Of the carnivores, C. c. ultima is the best-represented taxon, with three described cranial fragments, one mandible, and several postcranial elements. We examined two additional cranial fragments, one mandibular fragment, and the first associated skull of C. c. ultima from Penghu. Dental measurements of the new material conform with the known range of morphological variation for C. c. ultima, with progressive elongation of the upper carnassial cusps, and increasing body size, both to a larger degree than the Early Pleistocene C. c. honanensis. Furthermore, from (1) the well- documented replacement of Pachycrocuta brevirostris sinensis by C. c. ultima during the middle to late Middle Pleistocene of China, (2) the timing of glacial periods leading to land bridge formation between East Asia and Southeast Asian islands at 0.8~0.7, 0.28~0.24, and 0.18~0.125 Ma, and (3) the middle Pleistocene occurrences of C. c. ultima in Southeast Asia, the age of the Penghu C. c. ultima is most likely late Middle Pleistocene.
Subclinical Hypothyroidism and Cardiac Risk: Lessons from a South Indian Population Study

Introduction: The benefits of treating subclinical hypothyroidism are currently under debate, prevention of adverse cardiac events purporting to be one of the main benefits. The effect of subclinical hypothyroidism on the cardiovascular health of the Indian sub-population is largely unknown. This study was designed to examine these effects and to help guide treatment of this disorder. Methods: A cross-sectional adult population survey was carried out in urban coastal area of central Kerala. 986 volunteers underwent complete biochemical and physical examinations, 110 were found to have subclinical hypothyroidism (8.9%). The ten-year risk of an adverse cardiac event, was calculated using the Framingham score algorithm. Eligible subclinical hypothyroid subjects (N = 110) and a randomly selected, age and gender matched control group (N = 220) were compared. Results: This population was found to have high baseline levels of diabetes 19.5%, hypercholesterolemia 57.2% and systolic hypertension 24.6%. No association was found between subclinical hypothyroid status or rising TSH and Framingham 10-year risk. While no difference between groups was noted with respect to lipid profile, a rising TSH was found to be significantly correlated with mild worsening of the lipid profile. A significant positive correlation was found between skinfold thickness and TSH. Conclusions: Subclinical hypothyroidism is not a contributing factor to elevated Framingham risk in this population, and while a mild effect was observed on the lipid profile, its effect is unlikely to be clinically relevant. We hypothesize that in this population a genetic component may be responsible for the uniquely high rates of metabolic syndrome and other endocrine diseases.
Epidemiology, practice patterns, and prognostic factors for candidemia; and characteristics of fourteen patients with breakthrough Candida bloodstream infections: a single tertiary hospital experience in Japan

Background Candidemia is associated with high mortality, and its prognostic factors need to be examined in more detail in order to improve its management. A case of breakthrough (BT) candidemia is defined as the development of candidemia during antifungal therapy. The microbiological characteristics of and appropriate clinical practices for BT candidemia remain unclear. Objectives The primary objective of the present study was to identify the prognostic factors of candidemia, while the secondary objective was to elucidate the microbiological characteristics of patients with BT candidemia. Materials and methods A total of 121 patients diagnosed with candidemia between January 2007 and December 2016 were enrolled in this study. The primary outcome was the 30-day mortality rate. Results The overall incidence of candidemia was 0.056 cases/1000 inpatients. Among the 126 Candida isolated, C. albicans accounted for 36%, C. parapsilosis 26%, C. glabrata 12%, C. guilliermondii 14%, C. tropicalis 3%, C. pelliculos 1%, and other unidentifiable Candida species 8%. The 30-day mortality rate was 33%. In a multivariate Cox hazard analysis, C. albicans, the absence of antifungal therapy, age, lung disease, and mechanical ventilation were associated with a high mortality rate, whereas C. parapsilosis, the removal of a central venous catheter, and surgical wards were associated with a lower mortality rate. Fourteen patients had BT candidemia. A significant difference was observed in the proportion of C. guilliermondii and other Candida species exhibiting resistance to fluconazole and voriconazole, between patients with and without BT candidemia. Resistance to fluconazole was prominent in patients that developed candidemia with a history of azole antifungal agents. Conclusion The prompt initiation of antifungal therapy and removal of central venous catheter were essential for better outcomes. A class switch to other antifungal agents needs to be considered in empirical antifungal therapy for BT candidemia with a history of exposure to azole antifungal agents.
Stimulation of glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion downstream of the ligand-gated ion channel TRPA 1

Stimulus-coupled incretin secretion from enteroendocrine cells plays a fundamental role in glucose homeostasis, and could be targeted for the treatment of type-2 diabetes. Here, we investigated the expression and function of transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels in enteroendocrine L-cells producing glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). By microarray and qPCR analysis we identified trpa1 as an L-cell enriched transcript in the small intestine. Calcium imaging of primary L-cells and the model cell line GLUTag revealed responses triggered by the TRPA1 agonists allyl-isothiocyanate (AITC, mustard oil), carvacrol and polyunsaturated fatty acids, that were blocked by TRPA1 antagonists. Electrophysiology in GLUTag cells showed that carvacrol induced a current with characteristics typical of TRPA1 and triggered the firing of action potentials. TRPA1 activation caused an increase in GLP-1 secretion from primary murine intestinal cultures and GLUTag cells; an effect that was abolished in cultures from trpa1 -/mice or by pharmacological TRPA1 inhibition. These findings present TRPA1 as a novel sensory mechanism in enteroendocrine L-cells, coupled to the facilitation of GLP-1 release, which may be exploitable as a target for treating diabetes. Page 2 of 59 For Peer Review Only Diabetes
Widar2.0: Passive Human Tracking with a Single Wi-Fi Link

This paper presents Widar2.0, the first WiFi-based system that enables passive human localization and tracking using a single link on commodity off-the-shelf devices. Previous works based on either specialized or commercial hardware all require multiple links, preventing their wide adoption in scenarios like homes where typically only one single AP is installed. The key insight underlying Widar2.0 to circumvent the use of multiple links is to leverage multi-dimensional signal parameters from one single link. To this end, we build a unified model accounting for Angle-of-Arrival, Time-of-Flight, and Doppler shifts together and devise an efficient algorithm for their joint estimation. We then design a pipeline to translate the erroneous raw parameters into precise locations, which first finds parameters corresponding to the reflections of interests, then refines range estimates, and ultimately outputs target locations. Our implementation and evaluation on commodity WiFi devices demonstrate that Widar2.0 achieves better or comparable performance to state-of-the-art localization systems, which either use specialized hardwares or require 2 to 40 Wi-Fi links.
Current evidence for anesthesia management during endovascular stroke therapy: updated systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction Debate continues about the optimal anesthetic management for patients undergoing endovascular treatment (ET) of acute ischemic stroke due to emergent large vessel occlusion. Objective To compare, using current evidence, the clinical outcomes and procedural characteristics among patients undergoing general anesthesia (GA) and local or monitored anesthesia (non-GA). Methods We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of all available studies that involved the use of stent retrievers for ET (stentriever group). Additionally, we included studies that were published in 2015 and later, and compared the clinical outcomes among the studies using stentrievers or no stentrievers (pre-stentriever group). Outcome variables included functional independence (FI; modified Rankin Scale scores of 0–2), symptomatic hemorrhage, mortality, procedure duration, and vascular and respiratory complications. We calculated pooled odds ratios and 95% CIs using random-effects models. Results Sixteen studies (three randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) and 13 non-randomized studies) were identified comprising 5836 patients. Although non-GA was associated with higher odds of 3-month FI (OR=1.57; 95% CI 1.17 to 2.10; P=0.003) and lower odds of 3-month mortality (OR=0.62; 95% CI 0.47 to 0.82; P=0.0006, substantial heterogeneity was noted across included trials. Sensitivity analyses of RCTs showed that non-GA was inversely associated with FI (OR=0.55; 95% CI 0.34 to 0.89; P=0.01; I2=15%), while no association was noted with mortality (OR=1.36; 95% CI 0.79 to 2.34; P=0.27; I2=0%). Conclusion Our updated meta-analysis demonstrates favorable results with non-GA, probably owing to inclusion of non-randomized studies. Recent single-center RCTs indicate that GA is associated with higher odds of FI at 3 months, while other outcomes are similar between the two groups.
Fluid and flexible minds: Intelligence reflects synchrony in the brain’s intrinsic network architecture

Human intelligence has been conceptualized as a complex system of dissociable cognitive processes, yet studies investigating the neural basis of intelligence have typically emphasized the contributions of discrete brain regions or, more recently, of specific networks of functionally connected regions. Here we take a broader, systems perspective in order to investigate whether intelligence is an emergent property of synchrony within the brain’s intrinsic network architecture. Using a large sample of resting-state fMRI and cognitive data (n = 830), we report that the synchrony of functional interactions within and across distributed brain networks reliably predicts fluid and flexible intellectual functioning. By adopting a whole-brain, systems-level approach, we were able to reliably predict individual differences in human intelligence by characterizing features of the brain’s intrinsic network architecture. These findings hold promise for the eventual development of neural markers to predict changes in intellectual function that are associated with neurodevelopment, normal aging, and brain disease. Author Summary In our study, we aimed to understand how individual differences in intellectual functioning are reflected in the intrinsic network architecture of the human brain. We applied statistical methods, known as spectral decompositions, in order to identify individual differences in the synchronous patterns of spontaneous brain activity that reliably predict core aspects of human intelligence. The synchrony of brain activity at rest across multiple discrete neural networks demonstrated positive relationships with fluid intelligence. In contrast, global synchrony within the brain’s network architecture reliably, and inversely, predicted mental flexibility, a core facet of intellectual functioning. The multinetwork systems approach described here represents a methodological and conceptual extension of earlier efforts that related differences in intellectual ability to variations in specific brain regions, networks, or their interactions. Our findings suggest that the neural basis of complex, integrative cognitive functions can be most completely understood from the perspective of network neuroscience.
Joint consequences of dispersal and niche overlap on local diversity and resource use

1. Several ecological theories predict that species coexist by exploiting different resource niches, and therefore, more diverse communities should have greater resource uptake. Supporting evidence, however, is equivocal. Species with similar competitive abilities are predicted to coexist with little niche differentiation, suggesting that communities containing more functionally redundant species may be more diverse but with little impact on resource use. Likewise, high rates of seed dispersal often increase diversity, but the effect of this diversity on resource uptake is unknown.
Does a pilot resistance training exercise program for haemodialysis patients increase dietary intake and quality of life

Objective To determine the impact of progressive resistance training for haemodialysis patients on dietary intake, body composition and quality of life. Design A pilot uncontrolled intervention study, with subjects recruited from two satellite haemodialysis units. Fourteen patients enrolled in the study, with six patients completing the full 24-week exercise program. Intervention A thrice-weekly, individualised, progressive resistance training program was provided to eligible consenting patients. Patients performed upper and lower body training before and during their usual dialysis treatment for 24 weeks. Main outcome measures Dietary intake and nutritional status was assessed using a diet history, the Appetite and Diet Assessment Tool (ADAT) and Subjective Global Assessment (SGA). Body composition was assessed using DEXA scan. Muscular endurance was assessed using standard assessment measures. Quality of life was assessed using the Short Form 36 (SF-36) Quality of Life Tool. Routine biochemical parameters were also recorded for all patients. Results Compliance to the exercise program among completers was 95.7%. This program was associated with statistically significant improvements to muscle mass, upper body strength, social functioning and vitality. Mental health subcomponent scores significantly decreased after 24 weeks. Clinical but not statistically significant improvements to dietary intake, body fat and appetite were seen. Some biochemical parameters (calcium phosphate product, phosphate) also saw clinically significant improvements. Conclusion A pilot resistance training was associated with improvements in body composition, dietary intake and quality of life.
Polylactide (PLA) designed with desired end‐use properties: 1. PLA compositions with low molecular weight ester‐like plasticizers and related performances

Polylactide (PLA) is an attractive candidate for replacing petrochemical polymers because it is biodegradable and produced from annually renewable resources. Characterized by high tensile strength, unfortunately the brittleness and rigidity of PLA limit its applicability. For a great number of applications such as packaging,fibers,films, etc., it is of high interest to formulate new grades with improved flexibility and better impact properties. In this objective, a specific PLA grade (L/D isomer ratio of 96:4, high molecular weight) was melt-mixed with selected plasticizers: bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate (DOA), glyceryl triacetate (GTA), and tributyl O-acetylcitrate (TBAC). Their effect on the molecular, thermal, and mechanical properties of PLA was investigated for content up to 20wt% plasticizer and the results were correlated with a particular attention to the relationship between property and application. Using the solubility and interaction parameters, a tentative evaluation of the product that could act as the most effective plasticizer for PLA has been performed and the obtained results have been corroborated with the materials physical properties. Excellent mechanical performances were obtained using the plasticizer having the lowest molecular mass (GTA) and the best interaction parameter. In relation to plasticizer amount/nature, the glass transition temperature of PLA (62-C) is decreased by plasticizing by more than 30-C, whereas better impact properties and lower stiffness are measured. The optimal formulations targeted to the final applications are clearly characterized by specific end-use properties: improved crystallization rates (PLA-DOA); high elongation at break and tensile strength (PLA-GTA, PLA-TBAC), medium to high impact properties (PLA-DOA, PLA-GTA) compositions. Copyright # 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A nutraceutical diet based on Lespedeza spp., Vaccinium macrocarpon and Taraxacum officinale improves spontaneous feline chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease is characterized by structural and/or functional impairment of one or both kidneys persisting for more than 3 months. In cats, chronic kidney disease can frequently occur in animals aged over 9 years with an incidence of approximately 10%. Thirty‐four client‐owned, neutered cats, suffering from stage II‐III chronic kidney disease and diagnosed according to the International Renal Interest Society guidelines were randomly assigned to receive either a control diet (n = 17) or a nutraceutical diet (ND; n = 17) for 90 days. Both diets were commercialized for management of CKD symptoms. The diets were identical except that the ND contained tablets that consisted of 60–80% hydrolysed proteins, 20–40% minerals and active substances, that are, Lespedeza spp. 0.0588%, Vaccinium macrocarpom 0.0371%, and Taraxacum officinale 0.0231%. No adverse effects were reported during this study. Both diets resulted in an improvement in CKD symptoms. After a 90‐day evaluation, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, total proteins, and aspartate aminotransferase significantly decreased in cats that received the ND. A significant decrease was also observed in urine turbidity score, color score, and total proteins in cats that received the ND. We have found that a ND based on Lespedeza spp. , Vaccinium macrocarpon, and Taraxacum officinale improves key indicators of renal failure in cats affected by chronic kidney disease.
The worlds of welfare: illusory and gender blind?

The nature of welfare state regimes has been an ongoing debate within the comparative social policy literature since the publication of Esping-Andersen's The Three Worlds of Welfare Capitalism (1990). This paper engages with two aspects of this debate; the gender critique of Esping-Andersen's thesis, and Kasza's (2002) assertions about the ‘illusory nature’ of welfare state regimes. It presents a gender-focused defamilisation index and contrasts it with Esping-Andersen's decommodification index to illustrate that, whilst individual welfare states have been shown to exhibit internal variety across different policy areas, they are both consistent and coherent in terms of their policy variation by gender. It concludes, in contrast to both the gender critique of Esping-Andersen, and Kasza's rejection of the regimes concept, that the ‘worlds of welfare’ approach is therefore neither gender blind or illusory, and can, if limited to the analysis of specific areas such as labour market decommodification or defamilisation, be resurrected as a useful means of organising and classifying welfare states.
Phosphoproteomics of Retinoblastoma: A Pilot Study Identifies Aberrant Kinases

Retinoblastoma is a malignant tumour of the retina which most often occurs in children. Earlier studies on retinoblastoma have concentrated on the identification of key players in the disease and have not provided information on activated/inhibited signalling pathways. The dysregulation of protein phosphorylation in cancer provides clues about the affected signalling cascades in cancer. Phosphoproteomics is an ideal tool for the study of phosphorylation changes in proteins. Hence, global phosphoproteomics of retinoblastoma (RB) was carried out to identify signalling events associated with this cancer. Over 350 proteins showed differential phosphorylation in RB compared to control retina. Our study identified stress response proteins to be hyperphosphorylated in RB which included H2A histone family member X (H2AFX) and sirtuin 1. In particular, Ser140 of H2AFX also known as gamma-H2AX was found to be hyperphosphorylated in retinoblastoma, which indicated the activation of DNA damage response pathways. We also observed the activation of anti-apoptosis in retinoblastoma compared to control. These observations showed the activation of survival pathways in retinoblastoma. The identification of hyperphosphorylated protein kinases including Bromodomain containing 4 (BRD4), Lysine deficient protein kinase 1 (WNK1), and Cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) in RB opens new avenues for the treatment of RB. These kinases can be considered as probable therapeutic targets for RB, as small-molecule inhibitors for some of these kinases are already in clinical trials for the treatment other cancers.