Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Person Identification from the EEG using Nonlinear Signal Classification

Summary Objectives: This paper focusses on the person identification problem based on features extracted from the ElectroEncephaloGram (EEG). A bilinear rather than a purely linear model is fitted on the EEG signal, prompted by the existence of non-linear components in the EEG signal – a conjecture already investigated in previous research works. The novelty of the present work lies in the comparison between the linear and the bilinear results, obtained from real field EEG data, aiming towards identification of healthy subjects rather than classification of pathological cases for diagnosis. Methods: The EEG signal of a, in principle, healthy individual is processed via (non)linear (AR, bilinear) methods and classified by an artificial neural network classifier. Results: Experiments performed on real field data show that utilization of the bilinear model parameters as features improves correct classification scores at the cost of increased complexity and computations. Results are seen to be statistically significant at the 99.5% level of significance, via the χ2 test for contingency. Conclusions: The results obtained in the present study further corroborate existing research, which shows evidence that the EEG carries individual-specific information, and that it can be successfully exploited for purposes of person identification and authentication.
Differential Effect of Selection against LINE Retrotransposons among Vertebrates Inferred from Whole-Genome Data and Demographic Modeling

Abstract Variation in LINE composition is one of the major determinants for the substantial size and structural differences among vertebrate genomes. In particular, the larger genomes of mammals are characterized by hundreds of thousands of copies from a single LINE clade, L1, whereas nonmammalian vertebrates possess a much greater diversity of LINEs, yet with orders of magnitude less in copy number. It has been proposed that such variation in copy number among vertebrates is due to differential effect of LINE insertions on host fitness. To investigate LINE selection, we deployed a framework of demographic modeling, coalescent simulations, and probabilistic inference against population-level whole-genome data sets for four model species: one population each of threespine stickleback, green anole, and house mouse, as well as three human populations. Specifically, we inferred a null demographic background utilizing SNP data, which was then exploited to simulate a putative null distribution of summary statistics that was compared with LINE data. Subsequently, we applied the inferred null demographic model with an additional exponential size change parameter, coupled with model selection, to test for neutrality as well as estimate the strength of either negative or positive selection. We found a robust signal for purifying selection in anole and mouse, but a lack of clear evidence for selection in stickleback and human. Overall, we demonstrated LINE insertion dynamics that are not in accordance to a mammalian versus nonmammalian dichotomy, and instead the degree of existing LINE activity together with host-specific demographic history may be the main determinants of LINE abundance.
Sleep and recovery

This chapter summarizes the knowledge on sleep and restitution. Sleep constitutes the recuperative process of the central nervous system. The use of the brain during wakefulness will lead to depletion of energy in the cortical areas locally responsible for activity. The level of depletion is monitored and sleep is initiated when critical levels are reached. The attempts to initiate sleep are perceived as sleepiness or fatigue. The ensuing sleep then actively restores brain physiology to normal levels. This also results in restored alertness, memory capacity, and mood. Also, peripheral anabolic processes (secretion of growth hormone and testosterone) are strongly enhanced and catabolic process (secretion of cortisol and catecholamines) are strongly suppressed. In the long run, reduced or impaired sleep leads to metabolic diseases, depression, burnout, and mortality. Stress and irregular hours are among the main causes of disturbed sleep.
Effective fault management for hierarchical OTN multiplexing using tandem connection monitoring coordinates

We propose and verify fault management method using tandem connection monitoring for OTN multiplexing hierarchy through experiments on fiber-cut event. Marking defects on TCM coordinates that consists of TCM levels and ODU trails, and identifying a root-cause of faults using two consequent actions of trail signal fail and server signal fail are newly presented as means to find fault-originators and root-causes. By effectively managing multiple faults all over the network and all over the hierarchical OTN layers, the fault management method could contribute toward the enhanced OAM for fast end-to-end service maintenance and fast restoration.
Tooth root dentin mineralization defects in a mouse model of hypophosphatasia

Tissue‐nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) is expressed in mineralizing tissues and functions to reduce pyrophosphate (PPi), a potent inhibitor of mineralization. Loss of TNAP function causes hypophosphatasia (HPP), a heritable disorder marked by increased PPi, resulting in rickets and osteomalacia. Tooth root cementum defects are well described in both HPP patients and in Alpl−/− mice, a model for infantile HPP. In Alpl−/− mice, dentin mineralization is specifically delayed in the root; however, reports from human HPP patients are variable and inconsistent regarding dentin defects. In the current study, we aimed to define the molecular basis for changes in dentinogenesis observed in Alpl−/− mice. TNAP was found to be highly expressed by mature odontoblasts, and Alpl−/− molar and incisor roots featured defective dentin mineralization, ranging from a mild delay to severely disturbed root dentinogenesis. Lack of mantle dentin mineralization was associated with disordered and dysmorphic odontoblasts having disrupted expression of marker genes osteocalcin and dentin sialophosphoprotein. The formation of, initiation of mineralization within, and rupture of matrix vesicles in Alpl−/− dentin matrix was not affected. Osteopontin (OPN), an inhibitor of mineralization that contributes to the skeletal pathology in Alpl−/− mice, was present in the generally unmineralized Alpl−/− mantle dentin at ruptured mineralizing matrix vesicles, as detected by immunohistochemistry and by immunogold labeling. However, ablating the OPN‐encoding Spp1 gene in Alpl−/− mice was insufficient to rescue the dentin mineralization defect. Administration of bioengineered mineral‐targeting human TNAP (ENB‐0040) to Alpl−/− mice corrected defective dentin mineralization in the molar roots. These studies reveal that TNAP participates in root dentin formation and confirm that reduction of PPi during dentinogenesis is necessary for odontoblast differentiation, dentin matrix secretion, and mineralization. Furthermore, these results elucidate developmental mechanisms underlying dentin pathology in HPP patients, and begin to explain the reported variability in the dentin/pulp complex pathology in these patients. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Apraxia world: a speech therapy game for children with speech sound disorders

This paper presents Apraxia World, a remote therapy tool for speech sound disorders that integrates speech exercises into an engaging platformer-style game. In Apraxia World, the player controls the avatar with virtual buttons/joystick, whereas speech input is associated with assets needed to advance from one level to the next. We tested performance and child preference of two strategies for delivering speech exercises: during each level, and after it. Most children indicated that doing exercises after completing each level was less disruptive and preferable to doing exercises scattered through the level. We also found that children liked having perceived control over the game (character appearance, exercise behavior). Our results indicate that (i) a familiar style of game successfully engages children, (ii) speech exercises function well when decoupled from game control, and (iii) children are willing to complete required speech exercises while playing a game they enjoy.
A pilot study of postural stability testing using controls: the modified BESS protocol integrated with an H-pattern visual screen and fixed gaze coupled with cervical range of motion.

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate baseline postural stability of a normal healthy population using the modified balance error scoring system (M-BESS) integrated with H-pattern testing (HP) and cervical range of motion with fixed ocular gaze (CROM). METHODS Postural error scores for twelve participants were scored during each twenty second trial of the M-BESS protocol stances (double-leg [DL], tandem [TL] and single-leg [SL]). Participants also completed the same M-BESS protocol with the inclusion of HP and CROM conditions for a total of nine trials. RESULTS The total mean ± standard deviation and median of errors within each condition were not different (M-BESS 2.6 ± 2.1, 2.0; HP 1.3 ± 1.1, 2.0; CROM 2.0 ± 2.0, 2.0; p>0.05). CONCLUSION Although a small sample size, our findings suggest that with normal, healthy, subjects challenging their visual input and cervical range of motion while balancing gives you a similar number of errors as the standard M-BESS protocol.
Working Paper No . E 2017 / 3 Foreign Banks and The Bank Lending Channel

We provide new evidence on the bank lending channel of monetary policy using bank-level data of 440 banks from eleven CEE transition economies between 1998 and 2012. Our findings are: i) banks adjust their loans to changes in host country’s monetary policy, ii) foreign-owned banks are less responsive to monetary policy of a host country than domestic-owned banks in both normal and crisis times, iii) foreign parent bank characteristics are irrelevant for the bank lending channel. We propose market segmentation hypothesis that can account for those facts better than the alternative, the internal market hypothesis. Foreign banks have a competitive advantage so that their loan portfolio adjusts less to changes in monetary policy. As a consequence, an increase in foreign penetration of the banking sector does not render monetary policy less effective. JEL classification: E44, E50, G21
Influence of Corn Particle Size on Steer Performance and Carcass Characteristics When Fed Diets with Moderate Inclusions of Wet Distillers Grains plus Solubles

A large pen study was conducted with a commercial feedlot to investigate the influence of corn particle size on performance of steers fed diets containing 35% (DM basis) wet distillers grains plus solubles (WDGS). Feedlot cattle in the Midwest are often fed distillers grains from ethanol production that are low in starch. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate a practical question asked by producers if feeding moderate levels of WDGS would reduce the acidosis risk and allow fine grinding of corn to improve cattle performance. While fine grinding of corn did not improve performance compared to cattle fed a more traditional particle size of corn, starch digestibility of cattle fed finely ground corn was more favorable.
Resilience among older caregivers in rural Namibia: The role of financial status, social support and health

ABSTRACT Background: Namibia has one of the highest human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence rates and one of the highest rates of orphanhood in the world, and older caregivers provide much of the care to Namibians living with HIV and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) (UNAIDS, 2014). In this study, the authors explore how financial status, social support, and health were related to the resilience of caregivers caring for people affected by HIV and AIDS in rural northern Namibia, Africa. Method: Data were collected through a structured interview from (N = 147) caregivers from the Zambezi region. Results: Findings from this study show that employment and physical health were significantly associated with increased resilience in older caregivers. Discussion: Our findings point to the need for employment assistance and health services to improve the resilience of caregivers caring for people living with HIV and AIDS. We conclude that there is a need for more vigorous concerted efforts from public and private sector practitioners and policy makers to create more sustained formal employment opportunities and intervention programs aimed at improving the overall health of older HIV caregivers, especially those residing in rural HIV endemic communities in developing countries.
ESHRE Guideline: management of women with premature ovarian insufficiency.

STUDY QUESTION What is the optimal management of women with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) based on the best available evidence in the literature? SUMMARY ANSWER The guideline development group (GDG) formulated 99 recommendations answering 31 key questions on the diagnosis and treatment of women with POI. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY NA. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This guideline was produced by a multidisciplinary group of experts in the field using the methodology of the Manual for ESHRE Guideline Development, including a thorough systematic search of the literature, quality assessment of the included papers up to September 2014 and consensus within the guideline group on all recommendations. The GDG included a patient representative to ensure input from women with POI. After finalization of the draft, the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) members and professional organizations were asked to review the guideline. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS NA. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The guideline provides 17 recommendations on diagnosis and assessment of POI and 46 recommendations on the different sequelae of POI and their consequences for monitoring and treatment. Furthermore, 24 recommendations were formulated on hormone replacement therapy in women with POI, and two on alternative and complementary treatment. A chapter on puberty induction resulted in five recommendations. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The main limitation of the guideline is that, due to the lack of data, many of the recommendations are based on expert opinion or indirect evidence from studies on post-menopausal women or women with Turner Syndrome. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Despite the limitations, the guideline group is confident that this document will be able to guide health care professionals in providing the best practice for managing women with POI given current evidence. Furthermore, the guideline group has formulated research recommendations on the gaps in knowledge identified in the literature searches, in an attempt to stimulate research on the key issues in POI. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The guideline was developed and funded by ESHRE, covering expenses associated with the guideline meetings, with the literature searches and with the implementation of the guideline. The guideline group members did not receive payment. Dr Davies reports non-financial support from Novo Nordisk, outside the submitted work; the other authors had nothing to disclose. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NA.
Association between endogenous sex steroid hormones and inflammatory biomarkers in US men

Sex steroid hormones and inflammatory biomarkers are both associated with the development and progression of chronic diseases, but their interrelationship is relatively uncharacterized. We examined the association of sex hormones and sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) with biomarkers of inflammation, C‐reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cell (WBC) count. The study included data from 809 adult men in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2004. Geometric means and 95% confidence intervals were estimated separately for CRP and WBC concentrations by sex steroid hormones and SHBG using weighted linear regression models. Higher concentrations of total (slope per one quintile in concentration, −0.18; p‐trend, 0.001) and calculated free (slope, −0.13; p‐trend, 0.03) testosterone were statistically significantly associated with lower concentrations of CRP, but not with WBC count. Men in the bottom quintile of total testosterone (≤3.3 ng/mL), who might be considered to have clinically low testosterone, were more likely to have elevated CRP (≥3 mg/L) compared with men in the top four quintiles (OR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.00–2.61). Total and calculated free estradiol (E2) were positively associated with both CRP (Total E2: slope, 0.14; p‐trend, <0.001; Free E2: slope, 0.15; p‐trend, <0.001) and WBC (Total E2: slope, 0.02; p‐trend, 0.08; Free E2: slope, 0.02; p‐trend, 0.02) concentrations. SHBG concentrations were inversely associated with WBC count (slope, −0.03; p‐trend, 0.04), but not with CRP. These cross‐sectional findings are consistent with the hypothesis that higher androgen and lower oestrogen concentrations may have an anti‐inflammatory effect in men.
EGFR–PI3K–AKT–mTOR signaling in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas: attractive targets for molecular-oriented therapy

Importance of the field: Recent advances in the understanding of the oncogenesis of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) have revealed multiple dysregulated signaling pathways. One frequently altered axis is the EGFR–PI3K–Akt–mTOR pathway. This pathway plays a central role in numerous cellular processes including metabolism, cell growth, apoptosis, survival and differentiation, which ultimately contributes to HNSCC progression. Areas covered in this review: Books, journals, databases and websites have been searched to provide a current review on the subject. What the reader will gain: This article reviews the current understanding of EGFR–PI3K–Akt–mTOR signaling in HNSCC, including the impact of both genetic and epigenetic alterations. This review further highlights the potential of targeting this signaling cascade as a promising therapeutic approach in the treatment of HNSCC. Take home message: Genetic alterations of several nodes within this pathway, including both genetic and epigenetic changes, leading to either oncogene activation or inactivation of tumor suppressors have frequently been implicated in HNSCC. Consequently, drugs that target the central nodes of this pathway have become attractive for molecular oriented cancer therapies. Numerous preclinical and clinical studies are being performed in HNSCC; however, more studies are still needed to better understand the biology of this pathway.
Relative Value of White Corn When Fed to Finishing Cattle and Its Effects on Color of Carcass Fat

White corn was compared with yellow corn in a 180-day finishing trial with 600 lb. Angus steers fed 90% concentrate diets. Steers fed yellow corn consumed 3.3% less feed and were 3.8% more efficient in feed utilization. Rate of gain and carcass characteristics were similar for steers fed white or yellow corn. The color of subcutaneous fat over the ribs was significantly whiter from carcasses of steers fed white corn compared with those fed yellow corn. The results of this study indicate that white corn may be used instead of barley to produce whiter fat in beef carcasses.
Elucidation of the Roles of the Src Kinases in Pancreatic Acinar Cell Signaling

Recent studies report the Src‐family kinases (SFK's) are important in a number of physiological and pathophysiological responses of pancreatic acinar cells (pancreatitis, growth, apoptosis); however, the role of SFKs in various signaling cascades important in mediating these cell functions is either not investigated or unclear. To address this we investigated the action of SFKs in these signaling cascades in rat pancreatic acini by modulating SFK activity using three methods: adenovirus‐induced expression of an inactive dominant‐negative CSK (Dn‐CSK‐Advirus) or wild‐type CSK (Wt‐CSK‐Advirus), which activate or inhibit SFK, respectively, or using the chemical inhibitor, PP2, with its inactive control, PP3. CCK (0.3, 100 nM) and TPA (1 μM) activated SFK and altered the activation of FAK proteins (PYK2, p125FAK), adaptor proteins (p130CAS, paxillin), MAPK (p42/44, JNK, p38), Shc, PKC (PKD, MARCKS), Akt but not GSK3‐β. Changes in SFK activity by using the three methods of altering SFK activity affected CCK/TPAs activation of SFK, PYK2, p125FAK, p130CAS, Shc, paxillin, Akt but not p42/44, JNK, p38, PKC (PKD, MARCKS) or GSK3‐β. With chemical inhibition the active SFK inhibitor, PP2, but not the inactive control analogue, PP3, showed these effects. For all stimulated changes pre‐incubation with both adenoviruses showed similar effects to chemical inhibition of SFK activity. In conclusion, using three different approaches to altering Src activity allowed us to define fully for the first time the roles of SFKs in acinar cell signaling. Our results show that in pancreatic acinar cells, SFKs play a much wider role than previously reported in activating a number of important cellular signaling cascades shown to be important in mediating both acinar cell physiological and pathophysiological responses. J. Cell. Biochem. 116: 22–36, 2015. Published 2014. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Phosphorylated HuR shuttles in cycles

HuR is a ubiquitous RNA-binding protein (RBP) that associates with many mRNAs encoding proliferative proteins. Although predominantly nuclear, HuR translocation to the cytoplasm is linked to its ability to stabilize target mRNAs and modulate their translation. We recently reported that HuR phosphorylation by Cdk1 at S202 (within the HuR hinge region that is necessary for nucleocytoplasmic shuttle) increases HuR association with 14-3-3 and contributes to its nuclear retention. In this issue of Cell Cycle we report that residue S242 also regulates HuRÃƒÂ¢Ã‚Â€Ã‚Â™s cytoplasmic localization, influences cyclin expression, and modulates cell proliferation. Together with evidence of other post-translational HuR modifications, we propose that HuR phosphorylation ensures the timely mobilization of HuR across the nuclear envelope. In turn, HuR helps to schedule gene expression programs in a cell cycle-dependent manner.
Caractérisation biochimique et étude par autoradiographie quantitative des sites de fixation de l'indalpine, un inhibiteur de la récapture de 5-HT, dans le cerveau de chat

: The [3H]indalpine binding sites have been characterized in slide-mounted cat brain sections. This inhibitor of 5-HT reuptake binds with a very high affinity to sites which have the pharmacological properties of the serotonin carrier. These sites can, however, be differentiated from the [3H]imipramine binding sites by their Na+ dependency and competitive inhibition by serotonin. Quantitative autoradiographic studies demonstrate that indalpine binding sites are localized in structures rich in serotonergic neurons. The widespread distribution of indalpine binding sites in limbic and associative areas is consisted with its well characterized antidepressant activity in human.