Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Herniation of the Membranous Labyrinth Into the Horizontal Semicircular Canal Is Correlated With Impaired Caloric Response in Ménière’s Disease

Introduction Canal paresis of the horizontal semicircular canal in Ménière’s disease is a frequent finding. Endolymphatic hydrops is the single most characteristic morphologic finding in Ménière’s disease. However, the relationship between endolymphatic hydrops and canal paresis is still not elucidated. Methods We used magnetic resonance imaging to visualize herniation of parts of the vestibular membranous labyrinth into the horizontal semicircular canal and correlated this morphologic feature with the caloric function of the horizontal semicircular canal. Results Patients who showed herniation into the horizontal canal had a significantly impaired caloric function when compared with patients without this morphologic feature. Conclusion Herniation into the semicircular canal may be the morphologic correlate for impaired caloric response in patients with Ménière’s disease.
Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin and its Receptors in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) Brain Regions: Differential Findings in AD with and without Depression

Co-existing depression worsens Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology. Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is a newly identified (neuro)inflammatory mediator in the pathophysiologies of both AD and depression. This study aimed to compare NGAL levels in healthy controls, AD without depression (AD–D), and AD with co-existing depression (AD+D) patients. Protein levels of NGAL and its receptors, 24p3R and megalin, were assessed in nine brain regions from healthy controls (n = 19), AD–D (n = 19), and AD+D (n = 21) patients. NGAL levels in AD–D patients were significantly increased in brain regions commonly associated with AD. In the hippocampus, NGAL levels were even further increased in AD+D subjects. Unexpectedly, NGAL levels in the prefrontal cortex of AD+D patients were comparable to those in controls. Megalin levels were increased in BA11 and amygdala of AD+D patients, while no changes in 24p3R were detected. These findings indicate significant differences in neuroimmunological regulation between AD patients with and without co-existing depression. Considering its known effects, elevated NGAL levels might actively promote neuropathological processes in AD with and without depression.
Player retention in league of legends: a study using survival analysis

Multi-player online esports games are designed for extended durations of play, requiring substantial experience to master. Furthermore, esports game revenues are increasingly driven by in-game purchases. For esports companies, the trends in players leaving their games therefore not only provide information about potential problems in the user experience, but also impacts revenue. Being able to predict when players are about to leave the game - churn prediction - is therefore an important solution for companies in the rapidly growing esports sector, as this allows them to take action to remedy churn problems. The objective of the work presented here is to understand the impact of specific behavioral characteristics on the likelihood of a player continuing to play the esports title League of Legends. Here, a solution to the problem is presented based on the application of survival analysis, using Mixed Effects Cox Regression, to predict player churn. Survival Analysis forms a useful approach for the churn prediction problem as it provides rates as well as an assessment of the characteristics of players who are at risk of leaving the game. Hazard rates are also presented for the leading indicators, with results showing that duration between matches played is a strong indicator of potential churn.
Bacterial Activity at −2 to −20°C in Arctic Wintertime Sea Ice

ABSTRACT Arctic wintertime sea-ice cores, characterized by a temperature gradient of −2 to −20°C, were investigated to better understand constraints on bacterial abundance, activity, and diversity at subzero temperatures. With the fluorescent stains 4′,6′-diamidino-2-phenylindole 2HCl (DAPI) (for DNA) and 5-cyano-2,3-ditoyl tetrazolium chloride (CTC) (for O2-based respiration), the abundances of total, particle-associated (>3-μm), free-living, and actively respiring bacteria were determined for ice-core samples melted at their in situ temperatures (−2 to −20°C) and at the corresponding salinities of their brine inclusions (38 to 209 ppt). Fluorescence in situ hybridization was applied to determine the proportions of Bacteria, Cytophaga-Flavobacteria-Bacteroides (CFB), and Archaea. Microtome-prepared ice sections also were examined microscopically under in situ conditions to evaluate bacterial abundance (by DAPI staining) and particle associations within the brine-inclusion network of the ice. For both melted and intact ice sections, more than 50% of cells were found to be associated with particles or surfaces (sediment grains, detritus, and ice-crystal boundaries). CTC-active bacteria (0.5 to 4% of the total) and cells detectable by rRNA probes (18 to 86% of the total) were found in all ice samples, including the coldest (−20°C), where virtually all active cells were particle associated. The percentage of active bacteria associated with particles increased with decreasing temperature, as did the percentages of CFB (16 to 82% of Bacteria) and Archaea (0.0 to 3.4% of total cells). These results, combined with correlation analyses between bacterial variables and measures of particulate matter in the ice as well as the increase in CFB at lower temperatures, confirm the importance of particle or surface association to bacterial activity at subzero temperatures. Measuring activity down to −20°C adds to the concept that liquid inclusions in frozen environments provide an adequate habitat for active microbial populations on Earth and possibly elsewhere.
Review on Classification and Clustering using Fuzzy Neural Networks

In data mining two important tasks involved are classification and clustering. In general, in classification the classifier assigns a class label from a set of predefined classes to a new input object. Whereas, given a set of objects, clustering creates different groups of these objects using some similarity measure. In the context of machine learning, classification is supervised learning and clustering is unsupervised learning. There are different approaches used for classification and clustering. In recent past many fuzzy neural networks have been proposed which can be employed for classification and clustering. Unlike other techniques, the fuzzy neural networks are quickly trainable, suitable for online training, provides soft decision, and capable of constructing nonlinear decision boundaries. All these benefits make them suitable for difficult real world problems involving classification and clustering. This paper provides review on recent fuzzy neural learning algorithms and mainly focusing on pattern/object classification and clustering. General Terms Pattern Classification; Data Mining; Neural Networks; Fuzzy Logic
Distribution Characteristic and Combined Optimization of Maximum Cogging Torque of Surface-Mounted Permanent-Magnet Machines

This paper examines the maximum cogging torque (MCT) distribution characteristic of surface-mounted permanent-magnet (SMPM) machines. The MCT distributions of SMPM machines with different pole-arc coefficients and different ratios of slot opening to slot pitch are studied using: 1) the Fourier series analysis together with the Maxwell stress tensor and 2) the finite-element method. Right triangle distribution regions of the optimal MCT are determined by comparing the MCT distribution contour maps obtained by the afore-mentioned two methods. Finally, a combined MCT optimization method for an SMPM with substantial savings in the optimization time, when compared with conventional methods, is proposed.
Coil optimization for low-field MRI: a dedicated process for small animal preclinical studies

We demonstrate a method for the fast in vivo quantification of small volumes, down to 25 µL, using low-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) coils. The coils were designed so as to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in the images. For this we developed an analytical model for describing the variations of the SNR with coil design and with size/shape suited to the object under observation. Based on the conclusions drawn from the model, the coil parameters were chosen in order to reach an SNR close to the maximum. For the validation of the model, coils were finally characterized in terms of quality factor using saline phantoms. The coil design procedure is illustrated here with two examples: first, the quantification of about 200 µL of intradermal injected gel on rabbits with a single loop surface coil and second, the imaging of the intervertebral disks in rat tails using a small volume coil to detect possible lesions. Such studies would not have been feasible for the clinical low-field MRI system at our disposal using any of the commercially available medium-sized manufactured coils. As a result of this simple optimization procedure, a wide range of applications is accessible even at low magnetic fields, leading to new opportunities for low-cost, though efficient, preclinical studies.
A Close Examination of Trait Reactance and Issue Involvement as Moderators of Psychological Reactance Theory

This study used psychological reactance theory (PRT) to investigate (a) the effectiveness of 2 message features (freedom-threatening language and character frame) and (b) the role of trait reactance and issue involvement as moderators of a perceived freedom threat. Within the context of organ donation, the results indicated no differences for character frame among the donor, recipient, or waiting list narratives. However, freedom-threatening language was positively associated with a perceived freedom threat. In turn, a perceived freedom threat was positively associated with state reactance, which was inversely, albeit nonsignificantly, associated with organ donation attitudes. Attitudes predicted intentions to be an organ donor. Results also revealed that trait reactance was positively associated with a perceived freedom threat. Although not associated with a freedom threat, issue involvement was positively associated with organ donation attitudes and intent to be a donor. Additionally, a trait reactance by issue involvement by freedom-threatening language interaction predicted a perceived freedom threat. Results are discussed with an emphasis on these moderators in PRT.
Effects of long-term administration of a cocoa polyphenolic extract (Acticoa powder) on cognitive performances in aged rats

Numerous studies have indicated that increased vulnerability to oxidative stress may be the main factor involved in functional declines during normal and pathological ageing, and that antioxidant agents, such as polyphenols, may improve or prevent these deficits. We examined whether 1-year administration of a cocoa polyphenolic extract (Acticoa powder), orally delivered at the dose of 24 mg/kg per d between 15 and 27 months of age, affects the onset of age-related cognitive deficits, urinary free dopamine levels and lifespan in old Wistar-Unilever rats. Acticoa powder improved cognitive performances in light extinction and water maze paradigms, increased lifespan and preserved high urinary free dopamine levels. These results suggest that Acticoa powder may be beneficial in retarding age-related brain impairments, including cognitive deficits in normal ageing and perhaps neurodegenerative diseases. Further studies are required to elucidate the mechanisms of cocoa polyphenols in neuroprotection and to explore their effects in man.
Option-Implied Currency Risk Premia

We obtain ex ante estimates of risk premia for G10 currency pairs using cross-sectional data on exchange rate options. Option prices are well-matched by a non-Gaussian, two-factor model, consistent with evidence from realized currency returns. We find that option-implied currency risk premia provide an unbiased forecast of monthly currency excess returns, and achieve cross-sectional forecasting R^2s of up to 44%. Despite prominent non-normalities in option data, less than 20% of the model HML-FX risk premium, or roughly 70bps per annum, is due to the asymmetries and higher-moments of global risks.
Recent results in the Shannon theory

The first part of this paper consists of short summaries of recent work in five rather traditional areas of the Shannon theory, namely: 1) source and channel coding theorems for new situations; 2) calculation of source rate and channel capacity; 3) channel coding with feedback; 4) source coding; 5) universal coding. The second part of thc paper consists of a relatively detailed discussion of some aspects of the area that the author considers to be the most dynamic and exciting in the Shannon theory: multiple-user communication. The discussion here includes "multiple-access channels," "broadcast channels," and various source coding problems with multiple-user constraints.
Cancer Stem Cell‐Secreted Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor Stimulates Myeloid Derived Suppressor Cell Function and Facilitates Glioblastoma Immune Evasion

Shifting the balance away from tumor‐mediated immune suppression toward tumor immune rejection is the conceptual foundation for a variety of immunotherapy efforts currently being tested. These efforts largely focus on activating antitumor immune responses but are confounded by multiple immune cell populations, including myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which serve to suppress immune system function. We have identified immune‐suppressive MDSCs in the brains of GBM patients and found that they were in close proximity to self‐renewing cancer stem cells (CSCs). MDSCs were selectively depleted using 5‐flurouracil (5‐FU) in a low‐dose administration paradigm, which resulted in prolonged survival in a syngeneic mouse model of glioma. In coculture studies, patient‐derived CSCs but not nonstem tumor cells selectively drove MDSC‐mediated immune suppression. A cytokine screen revealed that CSCs secreted multiple factors that promoted this activity, including macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), which was produced at high levels by CSCs. Addition of MIF increased production of the immune‐suppressive enzyme arginase‐1 in MDSCs in a CXCR2‐dependent manner, whereas blocking MIF reduced arginase‐1 production. Similarly to 5‐FU, targeting tumor‐derived MIF conferred a survival advantage to tumor‐bearing animals and increased the cytotoxic T cell response within the tumor. Importantly, tumor cell proliferation, survival, and self‐renewal were not impacted by MIF reduction, demonstrating that MIF is primarily an indirect promoter of GBM progression, working to suppress immune rejection by activating and protecting immune suppressive MDSCs within the GBM tumor microenvironment. Stem Cells 2016;34:2026–2039
Crowdsourced Curriculum Development for Online Medical Education

In recent years online educational content, efforts at quality appraisal, and integration of online material into institutional teaching initiatives have increased. However, medical education has yet to develop large-scale online learning centers. Crowd-sourced curriculum development may expedite the realization of this potential while providing opportunities for innovation and scholarship. This article describes the current landscape, best practices, and future directions for crowdsourced curriculum development using Kern’s framework for curriculum development and the example topic of core content in emergency medicine. A scoping review of online educational content was performed by a panel of subject area experts for each step in Kern’s framework. Best practices and recommendations for future development for each step were established by the same panel using a modified nominal group consensus process. The most prevalent curriculum design steps were (1) educational content and (2) needs assessments. Identified areas of potential innovation within these steps included targeting gaps in specific content areas and developing underrepresented instructional methods. Steps in curriculum development without significant representation included (1) articulation of goals and objectives and (2) tools for curricular evaluation. By leveraging the power of the community, crowd-sourced curriculum development offers a mechanism to diffuse the burden associated with creating comprehensive online learning centers. There is fertile ground for innovation and scholarship in each step along the continuum of curriculum development. Realization of this paradigm’s full potential will require individual developers to strongly consider how their contributions will align with the work of others.
Dependency Parsing on Late-18th-Century German Aesthetic Writings: A Preliminary Inquiry into Schiller and F. Schlegel

Data-driven syntactic parsers are usually trained, tested and developed on web-news data. Little has been done to evaluate them on literary genres of different ages, which are still low-resource varieties in terms of syntactic annotation. In this paper, I will describe methodology and results concerning first experiments in testing two different kinds of dependency parsers on aesthetic writings by Schiller and F. Schlegel. First, I trained and tested the parsers on de-ud1.2, a treebank collecting German web-news texts. Second, I manually annotated excerpts by the two authors with syntactic metadata. Third, I tested the parsers on these excerpts, after training them on de-ud1.2
Online SVM and backward model validation based visual tracking

Visual object tracking involves the challenging task of scale adaptation to the changing object appearance. Sometimes, this leads to excessive expansion or contraction of the estimated bounding box. Towards this, several generative, discriminatory and hybrid models have been proposed. In this paper, we propose to apply Backward Validation Tracking (BVT) along with an online SVM. BVT has an advantage that it creates a model pool depending on the amount of variation of object's appearance in subsequent frames. Thus while tracking an object, not only is the current appearance taken into account, but so are the previous appearances which are stored in the model pool. Further, in order to improve on the appearance model adaptation, we use an online SVM. The online SVM is a discriminatory algorithm which allows us to distinguish between foreground and background objects. On account of its online nature, the SVM adapts to the updates in the appearance of the target object. We perform extensive experiments on the Object Tracking Benchmark (OTB) dataset. Experimental results prove that the proposed tracker outperforms several popular trackers, in terms of both overlap ratio and precision.
Dietary quercetin ameliorates experimental colitis in mouse by remodeling the function of colonic macrophages via a heme oxygenase-1-dependent pathway

ABSTRACT Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) results from a chronic intestinal inflammation and tissue destruction via an aberrant immune-driven inflammatory response towards an altered gut microbiota. Dietary intervention is becoming an attractive avenue for the therapy of colitis because diet is a key determinant of the mucosal immune response. Quercetin (QCN) is the most common in nature and the major representative of dietary antioxidant flavonoids, which has been demonstrated to influence the progression of colitis. However, the underlying mechanism of QCN on intestinal immunomodulation remains unclear. Here, our study demonstrated dietary QCN could ameliorate experimental colitis in part by modulating the anti-inflammatory effects and bactericidal capacity of macrophages via Heme oxygenase-1 (Hmox1, HO-1) dependent pathway. It suggested that QCN might restore the proper intestinal host-microbe relationship to ameliorate the colitis via rebalancing the pro-inflammatory, anti-inflammatory and bactericidal function of enteric macrophages. Hence, modulating the function of intestinal macrophages with dietary administration of QCN to restore the immunological hemostasis and rebalance the enteric commensal flora is a potential and promising strategy for IBD therapy.
Design of Power-Rail ESD Clamp With Dynamic Timing-Voltage Detection Against False Trigger During Fast Power-ON Events

The <italic>RC</italic>-based power-rail electrostatic discharge (ESD) clamp with nMOS of large size has been widely utilized to enhance the ESD robustness of CMOS integrated circuits. However, such circuit design that only detects the rising time of ESD pulse may be accidentally triggered in some conditions, such as fast power-ON, hot-plug, and envelope tracking applications. In this paper, a new power-rail ESD clamp circuit with transient and voltage detection function has been proposed and implemented in a 0.18-<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">$\mu \text{m}$ </tex-math></inline-formula> 1.8-V CMOS technology. The measurement results from the silicon chip have demonstrated that the new proposed power-rail ESD clamp circuit with adjustable minimum starting voltage (<inline-formula> <tex-math notation="LaTeX">${V}_{\text {starting}}$ </tex-math></inline-formula>) can achieve good ESD robustness and avoid triggering under fast power-ON condition. In addition, the proposed circuit has a low standby leakage current of 270 nA at 125 °C under normal power-ON condition.
Differences in Morphologic and Hemodynamic Characteristics for “PHASES-Based” Intracranial Aneurysm Locations

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Several recent prospective studies have found that unruptured intracranial aneurysms at various anatomic locations have different propensities for future rupture. This study aims to uncover the lack of understanding regarding rupture-prone characteristics, such as morphology and hemodynamic factors, associated with different intracranial aneurysm location. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We investigated the characteristics of 311 unruptured aneurysms at our center. Based on the PHASES study, we separated and compared morphologic and hemodynamic characteristics among 3 aneurysm location groups: 1) internal carotid artery; 2) middle cerebral artery; and 3) anterior communicating, posterior communicating, and posterior circulation arteries. RESULTS: A mixed model statistical analysis showed that size ratio, low wall shear stress area, and pressure loss coefficient were different between the intracranial aneurysm location groups. In addition, a pair-wise comparison showed that ICA aneurysms had lower size ratios, lower wall shear stress areas, and lower pressure loss coefficients compared with MCA aneurysms and compared with the group of anterior communicating, posterior communicating, and posterior circulation aneurysms. There were no statistical differences between MCA aneurysms and the group of anterior communicating, posterior communicating, and posterior circulation aneurysms for morphologic or hemodynamic characteristics. CONCLUSIONS: ICA aneurysms may be subjected to less rupture-prone morphologic and hemodynamic characteristics compared with other locations, which could explain the decreased rupture propensity of intracranial aneurysms at this location.