Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Constructing a Personalized Cross-Day EEG-Based Emotion-Classification Model Using Transfer Learning

State-of-the-art electroencephalogram (EEG)-based emotion-classification works indicate that a personalized model may not be well exploited until sufficient labeled data are available, given a substantial EEG non-stationarity over days. However, it is impractical to impose a labor-intensive, time-consuming multiple-day data collection. This study proposes a robust principal component analysis (RPCA)-embedded transfer learning (TL) to generate a personalized cross-day model with less labeled data, while obviating intra- and inter-individual differences. Upon the add-session-in validation on two datasets MDME (five-day data of 12 subjects) and SDMN (single-day data of 26 subjects), the experimental results showed that TL enabled the classifier of an MDME individual (using his/her 1st-day session only) to improve progressively in valence and arousal classification by adding similar source sessions (SSs) via the within-dataset TL (wdTL) and cross-dataset TL (cdTL) manners. When recruiting three SSs to test on the 5th-day session, the wdTL improvement (valence: 11.19%, arousal: 5.82%) marginally outperformed the subject-dependent (SD) counterpart (valence: 9.75%, arousal: 3.77%) that was obtained using their own 2nd–4th-day sessions only. The cdTL returned a similar trend in valence (8.35%), yet it was less effective in arousal (0.81%). Most importantly, such cross-day enhancements did not occur in either SD or TL scenarios until RPCA processing. This work sheds light on how to construct a personalized model by leveraging ever-growing EEG repositories.
Association between early pulmonary complications after abdominal surgery and preoperative physical capacity

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate whether early postoperative pulmonary complications after abdominal surgery are associated with a lower performance in preoperative six-minute walk test. Methods: A cross-sectional cohort study of 50 participants who underwent elective abdominal surgery and performed the six-minute walk test within 48 hours prior to surgery were conducted. Postoperative pulmonary complications up to the seventh postoperative day were obtained from medical records. Results: Overall, 25 participants developed postoperative pulmonary complications. The mean (standard deviation) preoperative walked distances of the participants with and without postoperative pulmonary complications were, respectively, 444.8 (81.3) meters and 498.3 (63.7) meters (p = .013). The incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications was greater in the participants with walked distance < 400 meters. The multivariable logistic regression model revealed a significant association between postoperative pulmonary complications and preoperative walked distance (Odds ratio = 0.978, p = .010) in participants who underwent intestinal, stomach, or bile tract resection. Conclusions: This study found a high incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications in abdominal surgery participants and an association between lower preoperative physical capacity and the risk of postoperative pulmonary complications in participants who underwent intestinal, stomach, and biliary tract resection.
Links between arterial stiffness and bone mineral density in middle-aged and elderly Chinese individuals: a cross-sectional study

Objectives To explore whether bone mineral density (BMD) is associated with arterial stiffness in middle-aged and elderly people with an advanced arterial stiffness index as indicated by the cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI). Design A cross-sectional study. Setting This study was conducted from September 2015 to May 2017 at the geriatrics department of a provincial medical centre in China. Participants A total of 580 patients aged 50 and over were enrolled in the study. The mean age of the group was 64.82±11.4 years, and 63.1% were male. Primary outcome measures Associations of age with CAVI values and BMD. Associations between BMD and CAVI values. Results With increasing age, CAVI values gradually increased (p<0.001) and the femoral neck (FN) and total hip (TH) BMD gradually decreased (p<0.001, all). In the bivariate correlation analyses between the covariates and CAVI values, age and CAVI values showed the greatest positive correlation (r=0.631, p<0.001), and CAVI values were negatively correlated with FN BMD (r=−0.229, p<0.001) and TH BMD (r=−0.218, p<0.001). In the linear regression analyses, TH BMD (B=−1.812 (95% CI −2.475 to −1.149), p<0.001) and FN BMD (B=−1.968 (95% CI −2.651 to −1.284), p<0.001) were negatively correlated with CAVI values. After adjusting for age, gender, body mass index, smoking, history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, history of diabetes mellitus, systolic blood pressure, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, blood uric acid, fibrinogen and estimated glomerular filtration rate, only TH BMD was still negatively correlated with CAVI values (B=−0.843 (95%CI −1.454 to −0.232), p=0.007). However, there was no consistent and significant correlation between lumbar spine BMD and CAVI values. Conclusion In this cross-sectional study, a significant correlation between TH BMD and CAVI values was observed in middle-aged and elderly Chinese inpatients. However, our cohort was a small sample of inpatients, and prospective studies from more centres are expected.
Acute systemic inflammation reduces both carotid and aortic wave reflection in healthy adults

Acute inflammation increases the risk of cardiac and cerebrovascular events, possibly related to alterations in the hemodynamic load. Wave reflection at the aorta and carotid provides insight into downstream vascular changes and hemodynamic load at the heart and brain. Acute inflammation has been suggested to reduce wave reflection via downstream vasodilation; however, this is not firmly established and has only been investigated at the aorta. We sought to explore the effect of acute inflammation on aortic and carotid hemodynamics in healthy, young adults. Pressure waveforms were collected via radial and carotid applanation tonometry in 23 adults (26 ± 4 years) before and 24 h after a typhoid vaccination. Waveforms were calibrated to brachial mean and diastolic pressure, and waveform separation analyses (WSA) were performed, yielding augmentation index, reflection index, time to reflection (Tr), forward (Pf) and reflected (Pb) wave magnitude, and pulse wave velocity. Arterial diameters and carotid stiffness were measured via ultrasonography. Acute inflammation reduced wave reflection at 24 h in both the aorta and carotid (P < 0.05) without changes in mean pressure. WSA did not reveal independent changes in Pf, Pb, or Tr (P > 0.05). Arterial stiffness did not change; however, brachial and carotid artery diameters increased. Acute inflammation reduces wave reflection in the aorta and carotid artery in young adults, potentially due to downstream/peripheral vasodilation. Reduced aortic wave reflection did not disturb the cardiac workload; however, reductions in carotid wave reflection may render the brain vulnerable to pulsatile hemodynamics. These findings may have implications for cardiac and cerebrovascular risk during acute inflammation.
‘When you think of exercising, you don’t really want to think of puking, tears, and pain’: Young adolescents’ understanding of fitness and #fitspiration

Adolescents access information about fitness, including content labelled as #fitspiration, through social media. A total of 77 adolescents (mean age = 12.49; standard deviation = 0.55; girls = 27) participated in semi-structured focus groups to explore their perspectives on #fitspiration and fitness more broadly. Through inductive thematic analysis, four themes were developed: (1) fitness enhances physical function and appearance, but these are not always linked; (2) fitness is transformative but requires hard work; (3) fitness should be an intrinsically motivated personal choice; and (4) pain in the pursuit of fitness. Findings highlight young adolescents’ complex understandings of fitness negotiated through their critical interpretation of #fitspiration.
Pediatric Pulmonology

Funding information National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, Grant/Award Number: K01HL130719 Abstract Pediatric Pulmonology publishes original research, case reports, and review articles on topics related to a wide range of children’s respiratory disorders. In this article (Part 4 of a five‐part series), we summarize the past year’s publications in sleep medicine, in the context of selected literature in this area from other journals. Articles are highlighted on topics including infant sleep, diagnosis, and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, and sleep disorders in chronic disease.
UAV and the comparison of image processing software

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to discuss unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and the comparison of image processing software. Design/methodology/approach Images from a drone are used and processed with new digital image processing software, Imagine UAV® of Erdas imagine 2015®. The products (Digital Surface Model and ortho images) are validated with check points (CPs) measured in the field with Global Positioning System. Moreover, similar products are produced by Agisoft PhotoScan® software and are compared with both the products of Imagine UAV and the CPs. Findings The results reveal that the two software tools are almost equivalent, while the accuracies of their products are similar to the accuracies of the external orientations of drone images. Originality/value Comparison of image processing software.
Hermaphroditism promotes mate diversity in flowering plants

Premise Genetically diverse sibships are thought to increase parental fitness through a reduction in the intensity of sib competition, and through increased opportunities for seedling establishment in spatially or temporally heterogeneous environments. Nearly all research on mate diversity in flowering plants has focused on the number of fathers siring seeds within a fruit or on a maternal plant. Yet as hermaphrodites, plants can also accrue mate diversity by siring offspring on several pollen recipients in a population. Here we explore whether mate composition overlaps between the dual sex functions, and discuss the implications for plant reproductive success. Methods We established an experimental population of 49 Mimulus ringens (monkeyflower) plants, each trimmed to a single flower. Following pollination by wild bees, we quantified mate composition for each flower through both paternal and maternal function. Parentage was successfully assigned to 240 progeny, 98% of the sampled seeds. Results Comparison of mate composition between male and female function revealed high mate diversity, with almost no outcross mates shared between the two sexual functions of the same flower. Conclusions Dual sex roles contribute to a near doubling of mate diversity in our experimental population of Mimulus ringens. This finding may help explain the maintenance of hermaphroditism under conditions that would otherwise favor the evolution of separate sexes.
Interventional radiology versus operative management for splenic injuries: a study protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction Over the past decades, the treatment for blunt splenic injuries has shifted from operative to non-operative management. Interventional radiology such as splenic arterial embolisation generally increases the success rate of non-operative management. However, the type of intervention, such as the first definitive treatment for haemostasis (interventional radiology or surgery) in blunt splenic injuries is unclear. Therefore, we aim to clarify whether interventional radiology improves mortality in patients with blunt splenic trauma compared with operative management by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods and analysis We will search the following electronic bibliographic databases to retrieve relevant articles for the literature review: Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. We will include controlled trials and observational studies published until September 2018. We will screen search results, assess the study population, extract data and assess the risk of bias. Two review authors will extract data independently, and discrepancies will be identified and resolved through a discussion with a third author where necessary. Data from eligible studies will be pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis. Statistical heterogeneity will be assessed by using the Mantel-Haenszel χ² test and the I² statistic, and any observed heterogeneity will be quantified using the I² statistic. We will conduct sensitivity analyses according to several factors relevant for the heterogeneity. Ethics and dissemination Our study does not require ethical approval as it is based on the findings of previously published articles. This systematic review will provide guidance on selecting a method for haemostasis of splenic injuries and may also identify knowledge gaps that could direct further research in the field. Results will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal and presentations at relevant conferences. PROSPERO registration number CRD42018108304.
Neuropeptide F regulates courtship in Drosophila through a male-specific neuronal circuit

Male courtship is provoked by perception of a potential mate. In addition, the likelihood and intensity of courtship are influenced by recent mating experience, which affects sexual drive. Using Drosophila melanogaster, we found that the homolog of mammalian neuropeptide Y, neuropeptide F (NPF), and a cluster of male-specific NPF (NPFM) neurons, regulate courtship through affecting courtship drive. Disrupting NPF signaling produces sexually hyperactive males, which are resistant to sexual satiation, and whose courtship is triggered by sub-optimal stimuli. We found that NPFM neurons make synaptic connections with P1 neurons, which comprise the courtship decision center. Activation of P1 neurons elevates NPFM neuronal activity, which then act through NPF receptor neurons to suppress male courtship, and maintain the proper level of male courtship drive.
RapidNAM: Algorithm for the Semi-Automated Generation of Nasoalveolar Molding Device Designs for the Presurgical Treatment of Bilateral Cleft Lip and Palate

Objective: Nasoalveolar molding (NAM) is an accepted presurgical treatment modality for newborns with cleft lip and palate (CLP). However, the therapy is time-consuming and requires high expertise. To facilitate the treatment, we reveal an algorithm for the automated generation of patient individual NAM devices for neonates with bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP) and present results of software validation. Methods: The algorithm was implemented utilizing Python 2.7 and Blender 2.78a based on 17 digitized (3D-scanning) impressions of maxillae with BCLP. The algorithm segments alveolar structures, bridges clefts, and generates a series of NAM device designs, destined for 3D-printing for subsequent treatment. The datasets were used for first software tests. For validation, a follow-up study was carried out using six new, independent maxilla models. The generated NAM plate designs were examined regarding their potential clinical usability. Furthermore, a deviation analysis was carried out, which measured the plate models’ and upper jaw models’ surface deviations. Results: Series of NAM devices were generated automatically in 21 out of 23 cases. We calculated an average surface deviation of 0.140 mm (SD: 0.016 mm). Four out of six plate series (follow-up trials) were assessed as probably usable with minor adjustments. Conclusion: The algorithm generates 3D-printable series of NAM device designs reliably. We expect most of the series to be clinically usable and that the first plates of each series will fit the patients’ maxillae. Significance: The proposed algorithm has the potential to reduce the therapist's manual work and therefore time effort/costs related to NAM.
What causes prescribing errors in children? Scoping review

Objectives (1) Systematically assemble, analyse and synthesise published evidence on causes of prescribing error in children. (2) Present results to a multidisciplinary group of paediatric prescribing stakeholders to validate findings and establish how causative factors lead to errors in practice. Design Scoping review using Arksey and O’Malley’s framework, including stakeholder consultation; qualitative evidence synthesis. Methods We followed the six scoping review stages. (1) Research question—the research question was ‘What is known about causes of prescribing error in children? ’ (2) Search strategy—we searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL (from inception to February 2018), grey literature and reference lists of included studies. (3) Article selection—all published evidence contributing information on the causes of prescribing error in children was eligible for inclusion. We included review articles as secondary evidence to broaden understanding. (4) Charting data—results were collated in a custom data charting form. (5) Reporting results—we summarised article characteristics, extracted causal evidence and thematically synthesised findings. (6) Stakeholder consultation—results were presented to a multidisciplinary focus group of six prescribing stakeholders to establish validity, relevance and mechanisms by which causes lead to errors in practice. Results 68 articles were included. We identified six main causes of prescribing errors: children’s fundamental differences led to individualised dosing and calculations; off-licence prescribing; medication formulations; communication with children; and experience working with children. Primary evidence clarifying causes was lacking. Conclusions Specific factors complicate prescribing for children and increase risk of errors. Primary research is needed to confirm and elaborate these causes of error. In the meantime, this review uses existing evidence to make provisional paediatric-specific recommendations for policy, practice and education.
Sensitivity Analysis Techniques Applied in Video Streaming Service on Eucalyptus Cloud Environments

Nowdays, several streaming servers are available to provide a variety of multimedia applications such as Video on Demand in cloud computing environments. These environments have the business potential because of the pay-per-use model, as well as the advantages of easy scalability and, up-to-date of the packages and programs. This paper uses hierarchical modeling and different sensitivity analysis techniques to determine the parameters that cause the greatest impact on the availability of a Video on Demand. The results show that distinct approaches provide similar results regarding the sensitivity ranking, with specific exceptions. A combined evaluation indicates that system availability may be improved effectively by focusing on a reduced set of factors that produce large variation on the measure of interest.
Prevalence of emm1 Streptococcus pyogenes having a novel type of genomic composition

Streptococcus pyogenes is a causative agent of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS). The complete genome sequence of a S. pyogenes strain 10–85 isolated from a STSS patient was recently announced. In this study, the genome sequence was dissected and it was found that the genomic region around 200 kbp (region A) and the genomic region around 1600 kbp (region B) were replaced by each other in strain 10–85, when compared with those in reference strains SF370 and A20. In order to address whether this replacement is unique to 10–85, we further analyzed 163 emm1‐type strains. The results indicated that none of the strains isolated before 1990 had the replacement. In contrast, most of the strains isolated at least after 2000 appeared to have the 10–85‐type replacement.
Hierarchical Topic Model Based Object Association for Semantic SLAM

Object-based simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) is a more natural and robust way for agents to interact with their surrounding environment. However, it introduces a problem of semantic objects association. Correct object association is the key factor to achieve a successful object SLAM system because object association and SLAM are inherently coupled and have not been well tackled yet. A novel formulation of the object association problem based on a hierarchical Dirichlet process (HDP) is proposed. Through the HDP, we can hierarchically associate the grouped object measurements. This can improve the object association accuracy and computation efficiency. Thanks to the novel formulation, the proposed method is also able to correct failure object associations according to its sampling inference algorithm. Furthermore, we introduce object poses to the processing of pose optimization. The object association and pose optimization are then solved in a tightly coupled way, by which both aspects can promote each other. The proposed method is evaluated on indoor and outdoor datasets and the experimental results show a very impressive improvement with respect to the traditional SLAM.
Intelligent Imaging: Anatomy of Machine Learning and Deep Learning

The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) in nuclear medicine and radiology has been accompanied by AI commentators and experts predicting that AI would make radiologists, in particular, extinct. More realistic perspectives suggest significant changes will occur in medical practice. There is no escaping the disruptive technology associated with AI, neural networks, and deep learning, the most significant perhaps since the early days of Roentgen, Becquerel, and Curie. AI is an omen, but it need not be foreshadowing a negative event; rather, it is heralding great opportunity. The key to sustainability lies not in resisting AI but in having a deep understanding and exploiting the capabilities of AI in nuclear medicine while mastering those capabilities unique to the human resources.
Is Inverse Prism Therapy Comparable to Conventional Prism Therapy for Improving Newcastle Scores in Patients with Basic Intermittent Exotropia?

ABSTRACT Purpose: To determine the effect of prism orientation on the Newcastle Control Score (NCS) in patients with basic intermittent exotropia (IXT). Methods: Patients with IXT with a distant angle of deviation (DAD) ≤50∆ and NCS≥5 were recruited and randomly divided into two groups. The inverse prism (IP) group received a base-out Fresnel prism addition to achieving full refractive correction, and the conventional prism (CP) group received base-in Fresnel prism addition. The prism addition was equivalent to one-third of the mean DAD. Patients were evaluated 3 months after initial treatment, 3 months after partial weaning and 6 months after complete weaning. NCS and DAD values were compared. Tolerance was defined as the ability to wear the prescription 80% of waking hours. Results: Fifty patients were enrolled in each group. The IP group had 6 intolerant patients, and the CP group had 3 intolerant patients. NCS improved in both groups (from 6.2 ± 0.7 to 3.4 ± 2.5 in the IP group and from 6.4 ± 0.7 to 3.7 ± −2.2 in the CP group). However, the final NCS difference was nonsignificant (Mann-Whitney, p = .6). The DAD changes were not significantly different between the 2 groups (t-test = 0.04). The average DAD decreased from 31.9 ± 6.9∆ to 10.11 ± 11∆ in the IP group and from 30.7 ± 8.5∆ to 15.5 ± 13.5∆ in the CP group. Four patients in the CP group exhibited an increase in DAD. Conclusion: The two types of prism therapy showed comparable improvements in NCS.