Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
KRSA: An R package and R Shiny web application for an end-to-end upstream kinase analysis of kinome array data

Phosphorylation by serine-threonine and tyrosine kinases is critical for determining protein function. Array-based platforms for measuring reporter peptide signal levels allow for differential phosphorylation analysis between conditions for distinct active kinases. Peptide array technologies like the PamStation12 from PamGene allow for generating high-throughput, multi-dimensional, and complex functional proteomics data. As the adoption rate of such technologies increases, there is an imperative need for software tools that streamline the process of analyzing such data. We present Kinome Random Sampling Analyzer (KRSA), an R package and R Shiny web-application for analyzing kinome array data to help users better understand the patterns of functional proteomics in complex biological systems. KRSA is an All-In-One tool that reads, formats, fits models, analyzes, and visualizes PamStation12 kinome data. While the underlying algorithm has been experimentally validated in previous publications, we demonstrate KRSA workflow on dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) in male (n = 3) and female (n = 3) subjects to identify differential phosphorylation signatures and upstream kinase activity. Kinase activity differences between males and females were compared to a previously published kinome dataset (11 female and 7 male subjects) which showed similar global phosphorylation signals patterns.
The association between metabolic syndrome and erosive esophagitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Although several studies have shown that each of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) components can be a risk factor for erosive esophagitis (EE), the association between MetS and EE is still a challenging subject, as studies about this association have shown inconsistent results. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the association between MetS and EE. In this study, we followed the MOOSE protocol and the PRISMA guidelines for reporting the results. Web of Science (ISI), Cochrane Library (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews - CDSR), EMBASE, Scopus, Science Direct, PubMed/Medline, EBSCO, CINAHL, and Google Scholar search engine were searched for articles published until January 2021. Heterogeneity between studies was estimated by I2 index and Q test. All analyses were performed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Software. Finally, 12 studies entered the meta-analysis process after qualitative assessment. MetS was significantly associated with increased risk of EE (OR=1.488 [95 % CI: 1.352-1.638], P<0.001; Heterogeneity: I2= 55.57, P<0.001) in 12 studies with a sample size of 45285 (12825 cases and 29377 controls). In subgroup analysis based on types of studies (P=0.832), MetS diagnostic criteria (P=0.083) and quality of studies (P=0.612), no significant association was found. Sensitivity analysis showed that the overall estimation of effect size is still robust after omission of individual studies from the meta-analysis. Publication bias based on the Begg's test (P=0.945) and Egger's test (P=0.753) were not significant. MetS increases the risk of EE compared to control groups. Future studies should examine if MetS treatment reduces the risk of EE.
Putting the humanities to work

This paper provides an account of the general political strategy behind the new 14–19 diplomas in England. It considers the rationale and the design process associated with one particular diploma – the Diploma for Humanities and Social Sciences – a qualification that is intended to combine vocational and academic content and purposes. The article reviews the research and consultation activity that supported the design and examines what it contributed and how this bears upon the future success of the diploma. By way of conclusion, it is argued that the increased role for research and consultation in diploma design suggests the way forward for more democratic models of qualification making which, if done well, could lead to more valid qualifications.
A multifunctional PVDF-based tactile sensor for minimally invasive surgery

In this paper a multifunctional tactile sensor system using PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride), is proposed, designed, analyzed, tested and validated. The working principle of the sensor is in such a way that it can be used in combination with almost any end-effectors. However, the sensor is particularly designed to be integrated with minimally invasive surgery (MIS) tools. In addition, the structural and transduction materials are selected to be compatible with micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology, so that miniaturization would be possible. The corrugated shape of the sensor ensures the safe tissue grasping and compatibility with the traditional tooth-like end effectors of MIS tools. A unit of this sensor comprised of a base, a flexible beam and three PVDF sensing elements. Two PVDF sensing elements sandwiched at the end supports work in thickness mode to measure the magnitude and position of applied load. The third PVDF sensing element is attached to the beam and it works in the extensional mode to measure the softness of the contact object. The proposed sensor is modeled both analytically and numerically and a series of simulations are performed in order to estimate the characteristics of the sensor in measuring the magnitude and position of a point load, distributed load, and also the softness of the contact object. Furthermore, in order to validate the theoretical results, the prototyped sensor was tested and the results are compared. The results are very promising and proving the capability of the sensor for haptic sensing.
Systemic innate immune response induces death of olfactory receptor neurons in Drosophila

Neural functions are known to decline during normal aging and neurodegenerative diseases. However, the mechanisms of functional impairment owing to the normal aging of the brain are poorly understood. Previously, we reported that caspase‐3‐like protease, the protease responsible for inducing apoptosis, is activated in a subset of olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs), especially in Drosophila Or42b neurons, during normal aging. Herein, we investigated the molecular mechanism underlying age‐related caspase‐3‐like protease activation and cell death in Or42b neurons. Gene expression profiling of young and aged fly antenna showed that the expression of antimicrobial peptides was significantly upregulated, suggesting an activated innate immune response. Consistent with this observation, inhibition or activation of the innate immune pathway caused delayed or precocious cell death, respectively, in Or42b neurons. Accordingly, autonomous cell activation of the innate immune pathway in Or42b neurons is not likely required for their age‐related death, whereas the systemic innate immune response induces caspase‐3‐like protease activation in Or42b neurons; this indicated that the death of these neurons is regulated non‐cell autonomously. We propose a possible link between the innate immune response and the death of olfactory neurons during normal aging.
Retrospective Study of Short Versus Standard Posterior Implants and Analysis of Implant Failure Risk Factors.

PURPOSE To compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes of short implants (≤ 8 mm) vs standard implants (> 8 mm, < 10 mm) and to uncover risk factors influencing implant failure in short implants. MATERIALS AND METHODS Short and standard implants were compared in the aspect of survival rates, biologic and mechanical complications, and marginal bone loss. To analyze risk factors of implant failure in short implants, several variables were taken into consideration, including sex, age, time interval, arch, implant brand, additional surgery, prosthesis material, restoration, smoking status, and crown-root ratio. RESULTS Three hundred twenty-one short implants and 136 standard implants were retrospectively followed up from 12 to 104 months with an average of 40 months (3.33 years) in short implants and 34 months (2.83 years) in standard implants. The survival rates of short implants were 95.6% at the implant-based analysis and 94.9% at the patient-based analysis, and rates of 96.3% and 94.0%, respectively, were calculated for standard implants. No statistically significant differences were observed between short and standard implants with respect to survival rate, complications, or marginal bone loss. The failure rates were 4.2% for implants and 5.4% for patients in total implants with an average of 38 months (3.17 years). In analyzing risk factors of short implants for survival rate, single short implants resulted in a higher failure rate compared with splinted short implants, while no significant variable was found in standard implants. CONCLUSION Short implants tend to be a reliable alternative in atrophic posterior regions. Splinted prostheses were more ideal for short implant restorations.
A 1D CNN for high accuracy classification and transfer learning in motor imagery EEG-based brain-computer interface

Objective. Brain-computer interface (BCI) aims to establish communication paths between the brain processes and external devices. Different methods have been used to extract human intentions from electroencephalography (EEG) recordings. Those based on motor imagery (MI) seem to have a great potential for future applications. These approaches rely on the extraction of EEG distinctive patterns during imagined movements. Techniques able to extract patterns from raw signals represent an important target for BCI as they do not need labor-intensive data pre-processing. Approach. We propose a new approach based on a 10-layer one-dimensional convolution neural network (1D-CNN) to classify five brain states (four MI classes plus a ‘baseline’ class) using a data augmentation algorithm and a limited number of EEG channels. In addition, we present a transfer learning method used to extract critical features from the EEG group dataset and then to customize the model to the single individual by training its late layers with only 12-min individual-related data. Main results. The model tested with the ‘EEG Motor Movement/Imagery Dataset’ outperforms the current state-of-the-art models by achieving a 99.38% accuracy at the group level. In addition, the transfer learning approach we present achieves an average accuracy of 99.46% . Significance. The proposed methods could foster the development of future BCI applications relying on few-channel portable recording devices and individual-based training.
Comparison of Cervical Sagittal Parameters Between Radiographs and Magnetic Resonance Images in Patients With Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy

Study Design Observational study Objective As an important consideration of surgery, cervical sagittal balance is believed to be better assessed using standing radiograph than supine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, few studies have researched this. Our study aimed to observe the correlations and differences in cervical sagittal parameters between radiograph and MRI in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM), and evaluate whether the change of position affects them. Methods We analyzed 84 patients, measuring Cobb angle (CA), T1 slope (T1S), neck tilt (NT), and thoracic inlet angle (TIA). Inter- and intra-parameter analyses were performed to identify any difference between standing radiograph and supine MRI. Statistical correlations and differences between the parameters were compared. Results There were excellent inter-observer agreement for each parameter (interclass correlation coefficient >.75), and significant differences were observed in each parameter between radiograph and magnetic resonance imaging (P < .05). Strong correlations were noted between the same parameters in radiograph and MRI. Cobb angle, T1S, and neck tilt were significantly correlated with thoracic inlet angle on both radiograph and MRI, and CA was significantly correlated with T1S on both radiograph and MRI (r: −1.0 to −.5 or .5 to 1.0). Conclusion Supine MRI obviously underestimated the value of CA, T1S, and TIA. Therefore, standing cervical radiographs should be obtained in CSM patients to assess and determine surgical strategy, not only supine MRI. Moreover, we observed that NT and TIA were not constant morphological parameters.
Survey of the Construction Industry Relative to the Use of CPM Scheduling for Construction Projects

While critical-path method (CPM) scheduling has been around since the 1950s, its application in the construction industry has still not received 100% acceptance or consistency in how it is used. Project controls, and CPM scheduling in particular, have gone unchanged in the standards arena with little focus for a common understanding and recognition of what is required for CPM schedule development, implementation, and use. In recent years, little research has been conducted relative to the use of CPM and its benefits. In order to determine how the industry views its applicability and usage, a survey was developed for the stakeholders in the construction industry. This paper summarizes extensive research that was performed of the construction industry relative to the use of CPM scheduling, its applicability and its acceptance in the execution of today's constructed projects. The research obtained the stakeholders' views on the use and effectiveness of CPM scheduling; the necessary qualifications of scheduling personnel; and opinions relative to whether standards and/or best practices are necessary. The paper discusses the different views of the stakeholders and recommendations as to how consistency can be obtained in the use of CPM scheduling in order to improve the construction industry.
Short- and Mid-Term Autograft Outcomes Following the Reinforced Ross Operation

Background The Ross operation for aortic valve replacement continues to be a controversial option because of concerns related to late autograft dilation and progressive neo-aortic insufficiency. In 2005, the reinforced Ross procedure was described at our institution to address this problem. We aim to analyze the short and mid-term outcomes following this procedure. Methods This is a retrospective study of patients who underwent the reinforced Ross operation between 2004 and 2019. A comprehensive chart review was performed. Echocardiograms were independently reviewed by an adult congenital cardiologist. The time to reintervention was evaluated with a Kaplan-Meier curve. Analysis was conducted in JMP 15.1 (SAS Inc., Cary, NC). Results Twenty-five patients underwent the reinforced Ross operation. Twenty-three patients (92%) had bicuspid aortic valve and the most common indication for surgery was a combination of aortic insufficiency and stenosis (n = 18, 72%). The mean follow-up was 6.1 ± 5.0 years. All patients were alive at the time of follow-up. Six patients (24%), from early in our experience, required subsequent aortic reintervention. Median time to reintervention was 41.8 months (0-81.5 months). Sixteen (64%) patients had less than moderate aortic insufficiency at last follow-up. Additionally, average aortic root measurements remained unchanged. Conclusions The reinforced Ross technique was initially proposed as a way to mitigate aortic root dilation seen in the traditional Ross procedure. Our experience suggests an associated learning curve with the majority of aortic reinterventions occurring within the first few years following surgery. Continued follow-up is warranted to assess its long-term durability and functionality.
Resuscitation 2020: Proceedings From the NeoHeart 2020 International Conference

Resuscitation guidelines are developed and revised by medical societies throughout the world. These guidelines are increasingly based on evidence from preclinical and clinical research. The International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation reviews evidence for each resuscitation practice and provides summary consensus statements that inform resuscitation guideline committees. A similar process is used for different populations including neonatal, pediatric, and adult resuscitation. The NeoHeart 2020 Conference brought together experts in resuscitation to discuss recent evidence and guidelines for resuscitation practices. This review summarizes the main focus of discussion from this symposium.
Mesh topology in scanned garment reconstruction

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the draping behavior of a scanned garment model in irregular and regular mesh topology. 3D garment with high fidelity can be obtained via range data scanning. The original output of a body scanner is an unorganized points cloud. In this paper, the geometrical surface of 3D garment is reconstructed through a series of treatments.Design/methodology/approach – The primary target of this work is to investigate the dynamic behavior of the corresponding physical model transferred from different mesh topologies. A mass‐spring model is constructed for both regular and irregular meshes. The performance under various integration methods is evaluated.Findings – Experimental results reveal the procedure of regularization is suitable for the integrators that are sensitive to the physically‐based simulation of scanned garments.Originality/value – The geometrical surface of 3D garment is reconstructed through a series of treatments solving the problem of points cloud.
Sampling for Mycotoxins—Do We Care Enough?

Analytical tests are the only way to detect mycotoxin content, and proper testing procedures are vital to ensuring that analysis is accurate, precise, and replicable. Uneven distribution of mycotoxins is caused by fungi growing unevenly throughout a field or bin, creating “hot spots” or “nuggets” of concentrated mycotoxins. Factors such as uneven distribution, improper sampling, and improper sample preparation can lead to false negatives and false positives. Sampling involves removing an appropriate quantity of material for testing from a larger lot. “Boot” and “bucket” sampling procedures do not result in samples that are representative of the whole lot and should not be used. Incremental samples and a proper sampling pattern are crucial to obtaining a representative sampling. Other factors include adequate sample size, appropriate equipment, accurate labeling, and proper handling. Although mycotoxins in mixed feeds could be more evenly distributed due to being coarsely ground after contamination, uneven.
Analysis of Ultimate Load-Bearing Capacity of Long-Span CFST Arch Bridges

In order to study the ultimate load-bearing capacity of the long-span concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) arch bridge with fly-bird-type, the ANSYS finite element program was used to establish its special model, and to study ultimate load-bearing capacity of this bridge with three different methods. The constitutive relation factors of concrete-filled steel tubular was taken into consideration including confining effect ultimate load coefficients, failure modes, and load-displacement curves of this bridge under different cases. The result indicate that the ultimate load-bearing capacity of the bridge can meet the requirement, all of its failure modes is out-plane, the two methods, linear elastic buckling analysis and only geometric nonlinearity analysis, will over high estimate ultimate load-bearing capacity of this bridge, and linear elastic buckling method cannot reflect real failure mode of this structure. In order to correctly estimate the ultimate load-bearing capacity of the bridge structure, the effect of geometric and material double nonlinearity couldn’t be neglected.
PI-RADS version 2.1 for the evaluation of transition zone lesions: a practical guide for radiologists.

Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging has been established as the most accurate non-invasive diagnostic imaging tool for detecting prostate cancer (PCa) in both the peripheral zone and the transition zone (TZ) using the PI-RADS (Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System) version 2.1 released in 2019 as a guideline to reporting. Transition zone PCa remains the most difficult to diagnose due to a markedly heterogeneous background and a wide variety of atypical imaging presentations as well as other anatomical and pathological processes mimicking PCa. The aim of this paper was to present a spectrum of PCa in the TZ, as a guide for radiologists.
Simulation of brushless DC drives

A simulation technique for brushless DC drive systems is presented. The operation of the inverter controller is incorporated into the equivalent circuit of the simulation model by means of state array matrices that describe the conduction patterns of each of the inverter devices. Inverter conduction voltages are included in the equivalent circuit representation because they can significantly affect overall system performance for low-voltage applications. The simulation technique is presented for steady-state, transient and fault conditions of operation of the drive system. Predictions are compared with experimental results for a low voltage prototype system.
Low-loss compact Butler matrix for a microstrip antenna

This paper presents the design and realization of a double four-port Butler matrix to feed a four-column array antenna with two orthogonally polarized signals (to obtain polarization diversity). The main goals of this study are the reduction of the size and the losses of the network. In order to meet those requirements, a bi-layer structure, the suspended stripline, has been adopted to support the circuit. Moreover, the complete network has been integrated in a single unit. The double four-port Butler matrix has been etched on both sides of the suspended substrate to solve the problem of the cross between the lines. The broadside suspended 3-dB directional coupler has been chosen for the design of the 3-dB hybrid coupler. In order to change the side of the suspended substrate, contactless transitions have been used. The network is designed to work within the range of frequencies of the GSM-900-MHz standard: band 880 MHz-960 MHz, center frequency f/sub 0/=920 MHz. Measured losses for a 4/spl times/4 Butler matrix are 0.3 dB.
The manager is not the boss : an investigation into managing professionals from both within and without the profession

The Manager is Not the Boss: An Investigation into Managing Professionals from both Within and Without the Profession by Patricia Genoe McLaren Professionals have an inherent expectation of autonomy in their work, an associated lack of respect for both the managerial role and the people who hold managerial positions, and highly specialized knowledge and skills. These characteristics alone make the management of professionals difficult. Add to this the fact that there are an increasing number of professionals being managed by individuals from outside their profession, and the complexity of the managerial role becomes even greater. It is the purpose of this dissertation to examine the management of professionals and to determine if a set of strategies exists that managers can use in order to mitigate the lack of respect that their subordinates afford them. The dissertation consists of a three-study research design. The first study consists of interviews of professionals and their managers, looking for expectations, experiences, and perceptions of managerial effectiveness. A list of strategies was developed through these interviews. The second study is a large scale survey conducted over a diverse set of professionals, designed to validate the strategies and answer questions regarding managers of professionals. The third study consists of a vignette experiment, with participants rating the effectiveness of managers of varying levels of expert power and strategies. The research findings indicate that managers who are members of the profession of their subordinates are more effective than those who are not. A set of four strategies for managing professionals was identified. These strategies are used more often by managers who are members of the profession, and are inherent to professional membership, but are capable of being adopted by managers who are not members of the profession.