Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Domain Adaptation With Self-Guided Adaptive Sampling Strategy: Feature Alignment for Cross-User Myoelectric Pattern Recognition

Gestural interfaces based on surface electromyographic (sEMG) signal have been widely explored. Nevertheless, due to the individual differences in the sEMG signals, it is very challenging for a myoelectric pattern recognition control system to adapt cross-user variability. Unsupervised domain adaptation (UDA) has achieved unprecedented success in improving the cross-domain robustness, and it is a promising approach to solve the cross-user challenge. Existing UDA methods largely ignore the instantaneous data distribution during model updating, thus deteriorating the feature representation given a large domain shift. To address this issue, a novel method is proposed based on a UDA model incorporated with a self-guided adaptive sampling (SGAS) strategy. This strategy is designed to utilize the domain distance in a kernel space as an indicator to screen out reliable instantaneous samples for updating the classifier. Thus, it enables improved alignment of feature representations of myoelectric patterns across users. To evaluate the performance of the proposed method, sEMG data were recorded from forearm muscles of nine subjects performing six finger and wrist gestures. Experiment results show that the UDA method with the SGAS strategy achieved a mean accuracy of 90.41% ± 14.44% in a cross-user classification manner, outperformed the state-of-the-art methods with statistical significance ( ${p} < 0.05$ ). This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed UDA framework and offers a novel tool for implementing cross-user myoelectric pattern recognition towards a multi-user and user-independent control.
Activities and Structure-Function Analysis of Fission Yeast Inositol Pyrophosphate (IPP) Kinase-Pyrophosphatase Asp1 and Its Impact on Regulation of pho1 Gene Expression

Expression of the fission yeast phosphate regulon is sensitive to the intracellular level of the inositol pyrophosphate (IPP) signaling molecule 1,5-IP8. IP8 dynamics are determined by Asp1, a bifunctional enzyme comprising N-terminal IPP 1-kinase and C-terminal IPP 1-pyrophosphatase domains that catalyze IP8 synthesis and catabolism, respectively. ABSTRACT Inositol pyrophosphates (IPPs) are signaling molecules that regulate cellular phosphate homeostasis in diverse eukaryal taxa. In fission yeast, mutations that increase 1,5-IP8 derepress the PHO regulon while mutations that ablate IP8 synthesis are PHO hyper-repressive. Fission yeast Asp1, the principal agent of 1,5-IP8 dynamics, is a bifunctional enzyme composed of an N-terminal IPP kinase domain and a C-terminal IPP pyrophosphatase domain. Here we conducted a biochemical characterization and mutational analysis of the autonomous Asp1 kinase domain (aa 1–385). Reaction of Asp1 kinase with IP6 and ATP resulted in both IP6 phosphorylation to 1-IP7 and hydrolysis of the ATP γ-phosphate, with near-equal partitioning between productive 1-IP7 synthesis and unproductive ATP hydrolysis under optimal kinase conditions. By contrast, reaction of Asp1 kinase with 5-IP7 is 22-fold faster than with IP6 and is strongly biased in favor of IP8 synthesis versus ATP hydrolysis. Alanine scanning identified essential constituents of the active site. We deployed the Ala mutants to show that derepression of pho1 expression correlated with Asp1’s kinase activity. In the case of full-length Asp1, the activity of the C-terminal pyrophosphatase domain stifled net phosphorylation of the 1-position during reaction of Asp1 with ATP and either IP6 or 5-IP7. We report that inorganic phosphate is a concentration-dependent enabler of net IP8 synthesis by full-length Asp1 in vitro, by virtue of its antagonism of IP8 turnover. IMPORTANCE Expression of the fission yeast phosphate regulon is sensitive to the intracellular level of the inositol pyrophosphate (IPP) signaling molecule 1,5-IP8. IP8 dynamics are determined by Asp1, a bifunctional enzyme comprising N-terminal IPP 1-kinase and C-terminal IPP 1-pyrophosphatase domains that catalyze IP8 synthesis and catabolism, respectively. Here, we interrogated the activities and specificities of the Asp1 kinase domain and full length Asp1. We find that reaction of Asp1 kinase with 5-IP7 is 22-fold faster than with IP6 and is strongly biased in favor of IP8 synthesis versus the significant unproductive ATP hydrolysis seen during its reaction with IP6. We report that full-length Asp1 catalyzes futile cycles of 1-phosphate phosphorylation by its kinase component and 1-pyrophosphate hydrolysis by its pyrophosphatase component that result in unproductive net consumption of the ATP substrate. Net synthesis of 1,5-IP8 is enabled by physiological concentrations of inorganic phosphate that selectively antagonize IP8 turnover.
Reduced global fire activity due to human demography slows global warming by enhanced land carbon uptake

Significance Fire is an increasing climate-driven threat to humans. While human demography can strongly modulate fire ignition rates or fire suppression, changes in CO2 released by fires feed back to climate. We show that human demography could reduce future fire activity, which would in turn attenuate global warming via an enhanced land carbon sink. This mitigation is strongest in a low–CO2-emission world, corresponding to ∼5 to 10 y of global CO2 emissions at today's levels by 2100. We highlight the strong role of human demography in global fire reduction and the potential for climate change mitigation by enhanced land carbon sequestration. We also note possible trade-offs, including loss of biodiversity in fire-dependent ecosystems and increases in severe fire events.
An evaluation of the pharmacotherapeutic options for the treatment of adult phimosis. A systematic review of the evidence

ABSTRACT Introduction Topical pharmacotherapy is often practiced in the treatment of adults with phimosis or Lichen Sclerosus (LS). However, it is unclear if it is effective. Areas covered The authors review pharmacological treatments in adults with phimosis or LS using the Preferred Reporting of Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) methodology. They searched seven databases using key words phimosis, drug treatment, medical, treatment, lichen sclerosis, pharmacological treatment, medications, comparison study for all English language articles from 1962 to 2021. Inclusion criteria were patients >18 yr. , and the use of topical medical treatment with outcome data. The article includes the authors’ expert opinion and their perspectives for the future. Expert opinion There is limited research, with significant heterogeneity, which suggests the probable safety of topical steroids with some potential to reduce the signs and symptoms of LS. However, good quality research, with patient reported outcome data, is required to establish its true role and effectiveness.
Complete Genome Sequence of Enterobacter Phage vB_EcRAM-01, a New Pseudotevenvirus against the Enterobacter cloacae Complex

Here, we present the complete genome sequence of Enterobacter phage vB_EcRAM-01, isolated from waters of the Río Abajo river, in Panama City, Panama. This phage has deployed lytic activity against the Enterobacter cloacae complex, a pathogen of clinical importance in intensive care units. It belongs to the Myoviridae family and has a double-stranded DNA genome that is 178,477 bp long and contains 293 open reading frames (ORFs). ABSTRACT Here, we present the complete genome sequence of Enterobacter phage vB_EcRAM-01, isolated from waters of the Río Abajo river, in Panama City, Panama. This phage has deployed lytic activity against the Enterobacter cloacae complex, a pathogen of clinical importance in intensive care units. It belongs to the Myoviridae family and has a double-stranded DNA genome that is 178,477 bp long and contains 293 open reading frames (ORFs).
Use of antisense oligonucleotides to target Notch3 in skeletal cells

Notch receptors are determinants of cell fate and function, and play an important role in the regulation of bone development and skeletal remodeling. Lateral Meningocele Syndrome (LMS) is a monogenic disorder associated with NOTCH3 pathogenic variants that result in the stabilization of NOTCH3 and a gain-of-function. LMS presents with neurological developmental abnormalities and bone loss. We created a mouse model (Notch3em1Ecan) harboring a 6691TAATGA mutation in the Notch3 locus, and heterozygous Notch3em1Ecan mice exhibit cancellous and cortical bone osteopenia. In the present work, we explored whether Notch3 antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) downregulate Notch3 and have the potential to ameliorate the osteopenia of Notch3em1Ecan mice. Notch3 ASOs decreased the expression of Notch3 wild type and Notch36691-TAATGA mutant mRNA expressed by Notch3em1Ecan mice in osteoblast cultures without evidence of cellular toxicity. The effect was specific since ASOs did not downregulate Notch1, Notch2 or Notch4. The expression of Notch3 wild type and Notch36691-TAATGA mutant transcripts also was decreased in bone marrow stromal cells and osteocytes following exposure to Notch3 ASOs. In vivo, the subcutaneous administration of Notch3 ASOs at 25 to 50 mg/Kg decreased Notch3 mRNA in the liver, heart and bone. Microcomputed tomography demonstrated that the administration of Notch3 ASOs ameliorates the cortical osteopenia of Notch3em1Ecan mice, and ASOs decreased femoral cortical porosity and increased cortical thickness and bone volume. However, the administration of Notch3 ASOs did not ameliorate the cancellous bone osteopenia of Notchem1Ecan mice. In conclusion, Notch3 ASOs downregulate Notch3 expression in skeletal cells and their systemic administration ameliorates cortical osteopenia in Notch3em1Ecan mice; as such ASOs may become useful strategies in the management of skeletal diseases affected by Notch gain-of-function.
Added value of CRP to clinical features when assessing appendicitis in children

Abstract Background The diagnostic value of C-reactive protein (CRP) for appendicitis in children has not been evaluated in primary care. As biochemical responses and differential diagnoses vary with age, separate evaluation in children and adults is needed. Objectives To determine whether adding CRP to symptoms and signs improves the diagnosis of appendicitis in children with acute abdominal pain in primary care. Methods A retrospective cohort study in Dutch general practice. Data was collected from the Integrated Primary Care Information database between 2010 and 2016. We included children aged 4–18 years, with no history of appendicitis, presenting with acute abdominal pain, and having a CRP test. Initial CRP levels were related to the specialist’s diagnosis of appendicitis, and the test’s characteristics were calculated for multiple cut-offs. The value of adding CRP to signs and symptoms was analysed by logistic regression. Results We identified 1076 eligible children, among whom 203 were referred for specialist evaluation and 70 had appendicitis. The sensitivity and specificity of a CRP cut-off ≥10 mg/L were 0.87 (95%CI, 0.77–0.94) and 0.77 (95%CI, 0.74–0.79), respectively. When symptoms lasted > 48 h, this sensitivity increased to 1.00. Positive predictive values for CRP alone were low (0.18–0.38) for all cut-off values (6–100 mg/L). Adding CRP increased the area under the curve from 0.82 (95%CI, 0.78–0.87) to 0.88 (95%CI, 0.84–0.91), and decision curve analysis confirmed that its addition provided the highest net benefit. Conclusion CRP adds value to history and physical examination when diagnosing appendicitis in children presenting acute abdominal pain in primary care. Appendicitis is least likely if the CRP value is < 10 mg/L and symptoms have been present for > 48 h.
Age-differences in network models of self-regulation and executive control functions.

Self-regulation (SR) and executive control functions (EF) are broad theoretical concepts that subsume various cognitive abilities supporting the regulation of behavior, thoughts, and emotions (c.f. Inzlicht et al., 2021; Wiebe & Karbach, 2017). However, many of these concepts stem from different psychological disciplines relying on distinct methodologies, such as self-reports (common in SR research) and performance-based tasks (common in EF research). Despite the striking overlap between SR and EF on the theoretical level, recent evidence suggests that correlations between self-report measures and behavioral tasks can be difficult to observe (e.g., Eisenberg et al., 2019). In our study, participants from a life-span sample (14-82 years) completed self-report measures and behavioral tasks, which were selected to include a variety of different facets of SR (e.g., sensation seeking, mindfulness, grit, or eating behavior) and EF (working memory, inhibition, shifting). Using this broad approach, we systematically investigated connections and overlap of different aspects of SR and EF to improve their conceptual understanding. By comparing network models of a youth, middle-aged, and older-aged group, we identified key variables that are well connected in the SR and EF construct space. In general, we found connections to be stronger within the clusters of SR and EF than between them. However, older adults demonstrated more connections between SR and EF than younger individuals, likely because of declining cognitive resources. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Longitudinal study of changes observed in quality of life, psychological state cognition and pulmonary and functional capacity after COVID‐19 infection: A six‐ to seven‐month prospective cohort

Abstract Aims To investigate the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), symptoms, psychological and cognitive state and pulmonary and physical function of nonhospitalised COVID‐19 patients at long‐term, and to identify factors to predict a poor HRQoL in this follow‐up. Background Studies have focused on persistent symptoms of hospitalised COVID‐19 patients in the medium term. Thus, long‐term studies of nonhospitalised patients are urgently required. Design A longitudinal cohort study. Methods In 102 nonhospitalised COVID‐19 patients, we collected symptoms at 3 months (baseline) and at 6–7 months (follow‐up) from diagnosis (dyspnoea, fatigue/muscle weakness and chest/joint pain), HRQoL, psychological state, cognitive function, pulmonary and physical function. This study adhered to the STROBE statement. Results HRQoL was impaired in almost 60% of the sample and remained impaired 6–7 months. At 3 months, more than 60% had impaired physical function (fatigue/muscle weakness and reduced leg and inspiratory muscle strength). About 40%–56% of the sample showed an altered psychological state (post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety/depression), cognitive function impairment and dyspnoea. At 6–7‐months, only a slight improvement in dyspnoea and physical and cognitive function was observed, with a very high proportion of the sample (29%–55%) remained impaired. Impaired HRQoL at 6–7 months was predicted with 82.4% accuracy (86.7% sensitivity and 83.3% specificity) by the presence at 3 months of muscle fatigue/muscle weakness (OR = 5.7 (1.8–18.1)), PTSD (OR = 6.0 (1.7–20.7)) and impaired HRQoL (OR = 11.7 (3.7–36.8)). Conclusion A high proportion of nonhospitalised patients with COVID‐19 experience an impaired HRQoL, cognitive and psychological function at long‐term. HRQoL, PTSD and dyspnoea at 3 months can identify the majority of patients with COVID‐19 who will have impaired quality of life at long‐term. Relevance to clinical practice Treatments aimed at improving psychological state and reducing the fatigue/muscle weakness of post‐COVID‐19 patients could be necessary to prevent the patients’ HRQoL from being impaired at 6–7 months after their reported recovery.
Perceptual scale for transparency: Common fate overrides geometrical and color cues

Objects that pass light through are considered transparent, and we generally expect that the light coming out will match the color of the object. However, when the object is placed on a colored surface, the light coming back to our eyes becomes a composite of surface, illumination, and transparency properties. Despite that, we can often perceive separate overlaid and overlaying layers differing in colors. How neurons separate the information to extract the transparent layer remains unknown, but the physical characteristics of transparent filters generate geometrical and color features in retinal images, which could provide cues for separating layers. We estimated the relative importance of such cues in a perceptual scale for transparency, using stimuli in which X- or T-junctions, different relative motions, and consistent or inconsistent colors cooperated or competed in forced-preference psychophysics experiments. Maximum-likelihood Thurstone scaling revealed that motion increased transparency for X-junctions, but decreased transparency for T-junctions by creating the percept of an opaque patch. However, if the motion of a filter uncovered a dynamically changing but stationary pattern, sharing a common fate with the surround but forming T-junctions, the probability of seeing transparency was almost as high as for moving X-junctions, despite the stimulus being physically improbable. In addition, geometric cues overrode color inconsistency to a great degree. Finally, a linear model of transparency perception as a function of relative motions between filter, overlay, and surround layers, contour continuation, and color consistency, quantified a hierarchy of latent influences on when the filter is seen as a separate transparent layer.
Accelerated corneal crosslinking causes pseudoprogression in keratoconus within the first 6 weeks without affecting posterior corneal curvature

Purpose To evaluate the effectiveness of epithelium-off (epi-off) accelerated corneal crosslinking (A-CXL, 9 mW/cm2, 10 min) in adult keratoconus (KC) patients. Methods The study included 151 KC corneas (124 patients) after A-CXL. The parameters best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and the tomographic readings (Pentacam HR, Oculus, Germany) were analysed at 24, 12 and 6 months preoperatively, prior to surgery; and 6 weeks, 6 months, 1, 2 and >2 years postoperatively. The demarcation line was assessed by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (Tomey SS-1000, CASIA 2 (Tomey, Nagoya, Japan)). Results Comparing pre- to postoperative findings 6 weeks after A-CXL with paired t-test, the anterior steep (46.8 ± 4.0|47.1 ± 4.1), flat (50.2 ± 4.3|50.6 ± 4.6) and maximal keratometry (57.6 ± 6.8|58.3 ± 6.8) increased (p < 0.05), while the thinnest pachymetry decreased significantly (459 ± 39|444 ± 42, p < 0.05). Lateron, however, there was a decreasing anterior flat (1, 2 and >2 years; p < 0.0001), mean (1 year; p = 0.01 and 2 years; p = 0.03) and maximal keratometry (1, 2 and >2 years; p < 0.0001). The posterior corneal keratometry readings did not change significantly until >2 years after A-CXL (MANOVA; steep, p = 0.008; flat, p = 0.027; mean, p = 0.007). The mean depth of the demarcation line was 242 ± 62 µm (53.6%). The preoperative logMAR BCVA (0.35 ± 0.02) decreased 6 weeks after A-CXL (0.39 ± 0.03) followed by a continuous improvement until the latest follow-up (0.18 ± 0.04). Conclusion A-CXL constitutes a successful method for KC stabilization. Signs of KC progression occur within the first 6 weeks postoperatively (“pseudoprogression”), but this is not indicative of the long-term effect.
Regionalized chemical footprint method to identify aquatic ecotoxicity hotspots of hard disk drive rare‐earth magnets

The chemical footprint (ChF), which combines life cycle assessment (LCA) and quantitative risk assessment principles, shows promise for exploring localized toxicity impacts of manufacturing processes, which is not achievable with LCA alone. An updated ChF method was applied to the global annual production of a hard disk drive (HDD) rare‐earth element (REE) magnet assembly, assuming a supply chain in East and Southeast Asia. Existing REE magnet assembly LCA inventories were combined with supplier manufacturing locations to create a cradle‐to‐gate spatial unit process inventory. Emissions from the electricity grid for each manufacturing site were downscaled to hydrobasins of interest using the Global Power Plant Database. The predicted no effect concentration (PNEC) was chosen as the ecotoxicity pollution boundary to determine the threshold for dilution of each chemical of concern (CoC) and to calculate the ChF. Finally, a high‐resolution hydrological database provided volumes of the freshwater river reach draining each hydrobasin and was used to calculate the dilution capacity (DC), that is, the volume required to remain at or below the PNEC for each CoC. The total ChF of annual REE magnet assembly production was 6.91E12 m3, with hotspots in watersheds in China and Thailand where REEs are processed and steel metalworking takes place. Metals were the primary CoCs, with cadmium and chromium(VI) comprising 77% of total ChF. Dilution factors ranged from 5E−09 to 9E + 03 of the DC of the waterbody, reflecting the spatial variability in both emissions and DC. An advanced ChF method was demonstrated for HDD REE magnets. Scoping is a key step required to reduce model complexity. The use of regionalized fate factors and standardized hydrological data sets improves the comparability of ChFs across hydrobasins. Additional work to combine data sets into readily available tools is needed to increase usability and standardization of the ChF method and promote wider adoption. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:272–283. © 2022 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).