Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Optimizing the Detection of Wakeful and Sleep-Like States for Future Electrocorticographic Brain Computer Interface Applications

Previous studies suggest stable and robust control of a brain-computer interface (BCI) can be achieved using electrocorticography (ECoG). Translation of this technology from the laboratory to the real world requires additional methods that allow users operate their ECoG-based BCI autonomously. In such an environment, users must be able to perform all tasks currently performed by the experimenter, including manually switching the BCI system on/off. Although a simple task, it can be challenging for target users (e.g., individuals with tetraplegia) due to severe motor disability. In this study, we present an automated and practical strategy to switch a BCI system on or off based on the cognitive state of the user. Using a logistic regression, we built probabilistic models that utilized sub-dural ECoG signals from humans to estimate in pseudo real-time whether a person is awake or in a sleep-like state, and subsequently, whether to turn a BCI system on or off. Furthermore, we constrained these models to identify the optimal anatomical and spectral parameters for delineating states. Other methods exist to differentiate wake and sleep states using ECoG, but none account for practical requirements of BCI application, such as minimizing the size of an ECoG implant and predicting states in real time. Our results demonstrate that, across 4 individuals, wakeful and sleep-like states can be classified with over 80% accuracy (up to 92%) in pseudo real-time using high gamma (70–110 Hz) band limited power from only 5 electrodes (platinum discs with a diameter of 2.3 mm) located above the precentral and posterior superior temporal gyrus.
A computing environment for spatial data analysis in the microelectronics industry

This paper describes a computing environment called S-wafers that is tailored for the analysis of spatial data collected during semiconductor manufacturing processes. At the core of S-wafers lies a new statistical methodology that systematically exploits the basic spatial nature of these data. The S-wafers environment builds on the experience of Lucent Technologies' Microelectronics engineers and Bell Labs researchers who have noticed that patterns in mapped wafer data can provide “signatures,” which can be used to help identify and correct process problems. The S-wafers environment provides the means to formalize these observations into implementable strategies by furnishing extensive tools for data visualization; identification of groups of similarly patterned wafers; spatial analysis of designed experiments; assessment of the impact of particle contamination; and much more. In addition to supporting statistical research into problems of process improvement in this area, the S-wafers environment has been used for more than two years by various groups in Microelectronics. Extensions to both the software environment and the underlying statistical methodology continue at a rapid pace.
Functional restoration of human immunodeficiency virus and Epstein‐Barr virus‐specific CD8+ T cells during highly active antiretroviral therapy is associated with an increase in CD4+ T cells

To investigate the effect of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) on HIV‐ and Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV)‐specific CD8+ T cells, total number and function of these cells was determined in 16 HIV‐infected individuals using tetrameric HLA‐peptide complexes and IFN‐γ ELISPOT assays after peptide stimulation, respectively. HAART induced a significant decrease in HIV‐specific tetramer+ T cells, whereas EBV‐specific tetramer+ T cells did not change. In addition, individuals who temporarily failed on therapy showed a temporary increase in the number of HIV‐specific T cells, suggesting that differences in the pool size of antigen‐specific T cells was determined by the presence of antigen. Interestingly, there was an increase in the ratio of IFNγ‐producing T cells per total number of both HIV‐ and EBV‐specific T cells in the majority of individuals, suggesting that the function of virus‐specific T cells is improved in individuals successfully treated with HAART. Despite this relative functional improvement of EBV‐specific T cells, no significant changes were observed in EBV load. In four subjects who temporarily failed on HAART, the percentage of IFN‐γ‐producing T cells, both for HIV and EBV, paralleled CD4+ T cell kinetics, suggesting that function seems to be related to differences in CD4+ T cell numbers. Overall, these data indicate that HAART improves the antigen responsiveness of both HIV‐ and EBV‐specific T cells, which is associated with an increase in CD4+ T cells.
Comment: Characterization of Two Historic Smallpox Specimens from a Czech Museum

The complete genome sequences of two strains of variola virus (VARV) sampled from human smallpox specimens present in the Czech National Museum, Prague, were recently determined, with one of the sequences estimated to date to the mid-19th century. Using molecular clock methods, the authors of this study go on to infer that the currently available strains of VARV share an older common ancestor, at around 1350 AD, than some recent estimates based on other archival human samples. Herein, we show that the two Czech strains exhibit anomalous branch lengths given their proposed age, and by assuming a constant rate of evolutionary change across the rest of the VARV phylogeny estimate that their true age in fact lies between 1918 and 1937. We therefore suggest that the age of the common ancestor of currently available VARV genomes most likely dates to late 16th and early 17th centuries and not ~1350 AD.
Robust exponential stabilization of uncertain discrete-time stochastic switched neural networks

This paper deals with robust exponential stabilization for a class of uncertain discrete-time stochastic switched neural networks with time-delay. In the concerned model, stochastic disturbance is described by a Brownian motion. By using the average dwell time approach, the free-weighting matrix method combining with the stochastic stability theory and the multiple Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional technique, a state feedback controller is established and the sufficient condition in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) is presented, which guarantees that the neural network is robustly exponentially stabilizable. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained results.
Chemical Basis of Metabolic Network Organization

Although the metabolic networks of the three domains of life consist of different constituents and metabolic pathways, they exhibit the same scale-free organization. This phenomenon has been hypothetically explained by preferential attachment principle that the new-recruited metabolites attach preferentially to those that are already well connected. However, since metabolites are usually small molecules and metabolic processes are basically chemical reactions, we speculate that the metabolic network organization may have a chemical basis. In this paper, chemoinformatic analyses on metabolic networks of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were performed. It was found that there exist qualitative and quantitative correlations between network topology and chemical properties of metabolites. The metabolites with larger degrees of connectivity (hubs) are of relatively stronger polarity. This suggests that metabolic networks are chemically organized to a certain extent, which was further elucidated in terms of high concentrations required by metabolic hubs to drive a variety of reactions. This finding not only provides a chemical explanation to the preferential attachment principle for metabolic network expansion, but also has important implications for metabolic network design and metabolite concentration prediction.
Efficiency of neural respiratory drive for the assessment of bronchodilator responsiveness in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: an exploratory study.

BACKGROUND Conventional lung function parameters, such as forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and inspiratory capacity (IC) are often used to assess the therapeutic outcomes of bronchodilators, but they lack sensitivity. A novel indicator, namely efficiency of neural respiratory drive (NRD), may objectively evaluate the physiological changes in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We investigated whether this indicator could be used to more accurately assess the responsiveness to inhaled bronchodilators. METHODS Thirty-six subjects with moderate-to-severe COPD were randomized into group A (n=18) and group B (n=18). Participants in group A inhaled 400 µg placebo, 400 µg salbutamol and 80 µg ipratropium in sequence whereas those in group B had the salbutamol and ipratropium reversed. At different time points after administration of placebo or bronchodilators, evaluated indices included FEV1, FVC, IC, root mean square (RMS) of diaphragm electromyogram (EMGdi), and efficiency of NRD [herein defined as the ratio of minute ventilation (VE) to RMS, or VE/RMS]. RESULTS FEV1, FVC, IC, RMS, and VE/RMS significantly improved after inhaled bronchodilators and VE/RMS had the largest improvement among five indices. The detection efficiency of VE/RMS was greater than FEV1, FVC, IC (all P<0.05), but not different from RMS. The accuracy and sensitivity of VE/RMS were significantly higher than FEV1, FVC, IC, and RMS (all P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Efficiency of NRD may be a sensitive tool to evaluate the efficacy of inhaled bronchodilators in COPD.
Performance analysis for energy harvesting communication protocols with fixed rate transmission

Energy Harvesting (EH) has emerged as a promising technique for Green Communications and it is a novel technique to prolong the lifetime of the wireless networks with replenishable nodes. In this paper, we consider the energy shortage analysis of fixed rate transmission in communication systems with energy harvesting nodes. First, we study the finite-horizon transmission and provide the general formula for the energy shortage probability. We also give some examples as benchmarks. Then, we continue to derive a closed-form expression for infinite-horizon transmission, which is a lower bound for the energy shortage probability of any finite-horizon transmission. These results are proposed for both Additive White Gaussian Noise (AWGN) and fading channels. Moreover, we show that even under \emph{random energy arrival}, one can transmit at a fixed rate equal to capacity in the AWGN channels with negligible aggregate shortage time. We achieve this result using our practical transmission schemes, proposed for finite-horizon. Also, comprehensive numerical simulations are performed in AWGN and fading channels with no Channel State Information (CSI) available at the transmitter, which corroborate our theoretical findings. Furthermore, we improve the performance of our transmission schemes in the fading channel with no CSI at the transmitter by optimizing the transmission initiation threshold.
Sole Reconstruction Using Anterolateral Thigh Perforator Free Flaps

Background: The goal of sole reconstruction should be functional and aesthetic. These goals can be achieved by providing the sole with a durable and comfortable weight-bearing surface, adequate contour, protective sensation, and solid anchoring to deep tissue to resist shearing. Various flaps such as fasciocutaneous, musculocutaneous, or split skin grafted muscle flaps have been reported for reconstruction of the weight-bearing foot. The perforator flap, however, deserves attention in the debate for the ideal flap because of its anatomical characteristics. Methods: Between June of 2002 and February of 2005, 69 patients were treated for soft-tissue defects in the plantar areas with anterolateral thigh perforator free flaps. Sensory nerve coaptation was performed in 17 cases. The follow-up period ranged from 4 to 38 months, with a mean of 14.7 months. Results: Satisfactory aesthetic and functional results were observed using 4- to 6-mm-thick anterolateral thigh perforator flaps. All flaps survived, with the exception of one case. Partial necrosis and dehiscence of the wound developed in three cases, but secondary healing was achieved and final outcome was not impaired. Partial weight bearing began at 3 weeks, and acceptable gait recovery was noted by 3 months as evaluated by clinical observation and gait analysis. Most patients regained protective sensation by 12 months regardless of nerve coaptation, but earlier sensory recovery was noted in patients who underwent reconstruction with sensate flaps. Conclusion: This article suggests the anterolateral thigh perforator flap to be a reliable option in sole reconstruction, resulting in an acceptable functional and aesthetic outcome.
Proteome Dynamics and Physiological Responses to Short-Term Salt Stress in Brassica napus Leaves

Salt stress limits plant growth and crop productivity and is an increasing threat to agriculture worldwide. In this study, proteomic and physiological responses of Brassica napus leaves under salt stress were investigated. Seedlings under salt treatment showed growth inhibition and photosynthesis reduction. A comparative proteomic analysis of seedling leaves exposed to 200 mM NaCl for 24 h, 48 h and 72 h was conducted. Forty-four protein spots were differentially accumulated upon NaCl treatment and 42 of them were identified, including several novel salt-responsive proteins. To determine the functional roles of these proteins in salt adaptation, their dynamic changes in abundance were analyzed. The results suggested that the up-accumulated proteins, which were associated with protein metabolism, damage repair and defense response, might contribute to the alleviation of the deleterious effect of salt stress on chlorophyll biosynthesis, photosynthesis, energy synthesis and respiration in Brassica napus leaves. This study will lead to a better understanding of the molecular basis of salt stress adaptation in Brassica napus and provides a basis for genetic engineering of plants with improved salt tolerance in the future.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of desvenlafaxine succinate in the treatment of major depressive disorder

The antidepressant efficacy and safety of desvenlafaxine succinate (desvenlafaxine) were evaluated in a phase III, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Outpatients with a primary diagnosis of major depressive disorder were treated with fixed once-daily doses of desvenlafaxine 200 or 400 mg for 8 weeks. The primary efficacy measure was change from baseline on the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression. At the final on-therapy evaluation, adjusted mean change from baseline in 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression total score was greater for desvenlafaxine 200 and 400 mg/day vs. placebo. Both desvenlafaxine doses showed greater efficacy than placebo on the secondary efficacy measures, including the Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement scale scores, Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale scores, CGI-Severity, and 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression response rate. Desvenlafaxine 200 mg/day was also significantly better than placebo on remission, Visual Analog Scale–Pain Intensity overall scores, and some Visual Analog Scale–Pain Intensity subscale scores. Desvenlafaxine 400 mg/day was significantly better than placebo on selected Visual Analog Scale–Pain Intensity subscale scores. Most adverse events were mild or moderate in severity, and safety assessments revealed few clinically significant changes in vital signs, laboratory tests, and electrocardiogram results. These data provide support for the efficacy and safety of desvenlafaxine in the treatment of major depressive disorder.
Plurals, Cardinalities, and Structures of Determination

This paper presents an approach for processing incomplete and inconsistent knowledge. Basis for attacking these problems are 'structures of determination', which are extensions of Scott's approximation lattices taking into consideration some requirements from natural language processing and representation of knowledge. The theory developed is exemplified with processing plural noun phrases referring to objects which have to be understood as classes or sets. Referantial processes are handled by processes on 'Referential Nets', which are a specific knowledge structure developed for the representation of object-oriented knowledge. Problems of determination with respect to cardinality assumptions are emphasized.
Surface mode free and highly birefringent single-mode hollow core photonic bandgap fibers

New hollow-core geometries in modified honeycomb photonic bandgap fibers have been investigated in order to obtain high birefringence and, at the same time, to avoid the presence of surface modes. Birefringence values up to 10-3 have been obtained in fibers which are effectively single-mode in both C and L bands, with confinement loss lower than 1 dB/km in the same wide wavelength range.
Motion deblurring from a single image

In recent years, the image processing technology has been used in various fields, such as the detection and monitoring and so on. Because the exposure time of camera is not infinitesimal, there is relative motion between the camera and the object being captured during the short exposing time, it causes the image blurry . The blurred image that we capture is worthless and useless. For dealing with this challenging but imperative issue, in this paper, we restore the blurry image from a single image. We analysize the spectrum of the Fourier transform to estimate the point spread function of the blurred image and restore the image in winner filter. In Wiener filter algorithm, different parameter has different influence on the image, we analysize the influence and how to adjust parameter according to the restored results. Some experiments have also been conducted for validating that winner filter is simple, efficient and has a good influence on restoring.
Electrical synapses between motoneurons in the spinal cord of the newborn rat

Ventral roots of the newborn rat spinal cord were stimulated while recording intracellularly from motoneurons. In many cells, stimulation subthreshold for an antidromic action potential in the impaled cell produced a small, short-latency depolarization, which was unaffected by membrane polarization. This response (antidromic synaptic potential, a.s.p.) was also seen, in some cells, on stimulating the ventral root of an adjacent segment. Replacement of Ca2+ (2 mM) with Mn2+ (3 mM ) or Mg2+ (10 mM) completely abolished orthodromic synaptic potentials, but the a.s. p. persisted. These results strongly suggest that the a.s. p. is produced by an electrical interaction between motoneurons.
Hypocaloric total parenteral nutrition: Effectiveness in prevention of hyperglycemia and infectious complications—A randomized clinical trial

ObjectiveTo determine whether the frequency rate of hyperglycemia and infectious complications can be reduced by an underfeeding strategy in patients requiring total parenteral nutrition (TPN), without deleterious effects on nitrogen balance. DesignProspective, randomized, controlled nonblinded trial. SettingA university-affiliated teaching hospital with a dedicated TPN service. PatientsTPN was initiated in 40 adult patients and continued for ≥5 days. InterventionTwo different TPN feeding strategies were compared: hypocaloric feeding (1 L containing 70 g protein and 1000 kcal) and standard weight-based regimen, begun in similar amounts initially, but advanced in increments toward 25 kcal and 1.5 g protein/kg dry (or adjusted ideal) weight. Measurements and Main ResultsWe evaluated the frequency rate of hyperglycemia, average blood glucose, numbers and types of infections while receiving nutritional support, and nitrogen balance after 5 days of TPN. There were significant differences between the quantities of calories, dextrose, fat, and protein provided to the two groups. However, average blood glucose, frequency rate of hyperglycemia, and infection rates (from intravenous catheter, pneumonia, and wound/abdominal collection) were similar in each group. The control group showed a trend toward a higher insulin requirement. Nitrogen balance, only available as a subset, was significantly more negative in the hypocaloric group. ConclusionsProvision of TPN to a goal of 25 kcal/kg was not associated with more hyperglycemia or infections than a deliberate underfeeding strategy. A regimen of 1.5 g/kg protein in conjunction with 25 kcal/kg did, however, provide significant nutritional benefit in terms of nitrogen balance in comparison with hypocaloric TPN.
Mining frequent closed structures in streaming melody sequences

We study the problem of mining frequent closed structures in a continuous, infinite-sized, and fast changing music melody stream. By modeling a music melody as a sequence of chord-sets, we propose an efficient algorithm FCS-stream (frequent closed structures of streaming melody sequences) for incremental mining of frequent closed structures in one scan of the continuous stream of chord-set sequences. An extended prefix-tree structure called TCS-tree (temporal closed structure tree) is developed for storing compact, essential information about the frequent closed structures of the stream. Results from our theoretical analysis and experimental studies with synthetic data show that the FCS-stream algorithm satisfies the main performance requirements, namely, single-pass, bounded memory, and real-time, for data stream mining.
A Review and Clarification of the Terms “holistic,” “configural,” and “relational” in the Face Perception Literature

It is widely agreed that the human face is processed differently from other objects. However there is a lack of consensus on what is meant by a wide array of terms used to describe this “special” face processing (e.g., holistic and configural) and the perceptually relevant information within a face (e.g., relational properties and configuration). This paper will review existing models of holistic/configural processing, discuss how they differ from one another conceptually, and review the wide variety of measures used to tap into these concepts. In general we favor a model where holistic processing of a face includes some or all of the interrelations between features and has separate coding for features. However, some aspects of the model remain unclear. We propose the use of moving faces as a way of clarifying what types of information are included in the holistic representation of a face.