Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Human Mirror Neuron System (hMNS) Specific Differences in Resting-State Functional Connectivity in Self-Reported Democrats and Republicans: A Pilot Study

In light of ever-present partisan division in the US political system, it is critical that researchers gain a better under-standing of potential biological differences that exist between self-professed Democrats and Republicans. In the current pilot experiment, we examined differences within the human mirror neuron system (hMNS), a network linked to a host of social and emotional abilities, in a small group of self-identified Republicans and Democrats. We found clear differences between these two groups with respect to resting-state brain connectivity within the hMNS. These neural differences were not systematically related to differences in empathy. Our findings are consistent with the idea that other factors, such as one’s preferential type of social connectivity (broad vs. tight), may have driven the reported findings. These data provide novel insights regarding our knowledge of the biological basis of party identification, and suggest specific directions for future research.
High DRC Levels Are Associated with Let-7b Overexpression in Women with Breast Cancer

Nucleotide Excision Repair (NER) is a critical pathway involved in breast cancer (BC). We have previously published that a low DNA repair capacity (DRC) is associated with a higher risk of BC in Puerto Rican women. Let-7b belongs to a miRNA family with tumor suppressor activity that targets oncogenes. We isolated miRNAs from plasma of 153 Puerto Rican women with and without BC. DRC was measured in lymphocytes by means of a host cell reactivation assay. These women were divided into four groups according to their DRC level: High (>3.8%) and low (<3.8%). The four groups consisted of BC patients with high (n = 35) and low (n = 43) DRC and controls with high (n = 39) and low (n = 36) DRC. Epidemiologic data were collected at initial BC diagnosis and almost five years after diagnosis. A significant difference in Let-7b expression was found in BC patients with high DRC versus the remaining groups (p < 0.001). Thus, our data reveal a possible role of Let-7b on DRC during breast carcinogenesis. Our study is innovative because it provides the first evidence that Let-7b may play role in DRC regulation (through the NER repair pathway) in BC.
Technical Challenges for Big Data in Biomedicine and Health: Data Sources, Infrastructure, and Analytics

Summary Objectives: To review technical and methodological challenges for big data research in biomedicine and health. Methods: We discuss sources of big datasets, survey infrastructures for big data storage and big data processing, and describe the main challenges that arise when analyzing big data. Results: The life and biomedical sciences are massively contributing to the big data revolution through secondary use of data that were collected during routine care and through new data sources such as social media. Efficient processing of big datasets is typically achieved by distributing computation over a cluster of computers. Data analysts should be aware of pitfalls related to big data such as bias in routine care data and the risk of false-positive findings in high-dimensional datasets. Conclusions: The major challenge for the near future is to transform analytical methods that are used in the biomedical and health domain, to fit the distributed storage and processing model that is required to handle big data, while ensuring confidentiality of the data being analyzed.
Mesure de température de surface par contact en régime variable

2014 We present a theoretical and experimental study of the surface temperature measurement by direct contact in a transient regime. This study unambiguously shows the influence of the thermal and geometrical properties of the medium and the thermometric sensor, on the measurement error and the reponse time. It is also shown that for a conductive medium the contact conditions between the thermometric sensor and the medium have a major influence. Finally, this study indicates that the expression used for the evaluation of the error in permanent regime is still valid in the transient régime except for the beginning of the phenomenon. Revue Phys. Appl. 17 (1982) 153-161 AVRIL 1982, PAGE Classification Physics Abstracts 07 . 20Dt 44.10 . + i 44. 30. + v
Preparation and Characterization of Poly(L-lactide)/ Poly(-caprolactone) Fibrous Scaffolds for Cartilage Tissue Engineering

Polyblend fibrous scaffolds in mass ratios of 100/0, 90/10, 80/20, and 70/30 from poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) and poly(ϵ-caprolactone) (PCL) for cartilage tissue engineering were prepared in three steps: gelation, solvent exchanging, and freeze-drying. Effects of the blend ratio, the exchange medium, and the operating temperature on the morphology of scaffolds were investigated by SEM. PLLA/PCL scaffolds presented an ultrafine fibrous network with the addition of a “small block” structure. Smooth and regular fibrous networks were formed when ethanol was used as the exchange medium. Properties of the scaffolds, such as thermal and mechanical properties, were also studied. The results suggested that the compressive modulus declined as PCL amount increased. The incorporation of PCL effectively contributed to reduce the rigidity of PLLA. Bovine chondrocytes were seeded onto PLLA/PCL scaffold. Cells attached onto the fibrous network and their morphology was satisfactory. This polyblend fibrous scaffold will be a potential scaffold for cartilage tissue engineering. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 91: 1676–1684, 2004
An Integrated Dual-Output Isolated Converter for Plug-in Electric Vehicles

This paper proposes a unique integrated and isolated dual-output dc–dc resonant converter, which can interface both HV traction batteries and LV loads. In addition, the proposed topology is bidirectional, capable of delivering power from HV traction batteries to the grid for vehicle-to-grid (V2G) applications. To increase the power density of the converter, the dual-output dc–dc resonant converter combines magnetic components of resonant networks into a single three-winding electromagnetically integrated transformer. The resonant converter uses a half-bridge topology with split capacitors as the resonant network components to further reduce the size of a converter. The variable dc-link voltage strategy is utilized to enhance the efficiency over the entire output voltage range. A 3.3-kW converter is designed and developed for validation of various operation modes, including grid-to-vehicle, V2G, and HV-to-LV charging.
A Reputation based System to Overcome Malicious Behavior in Peer-to-Peer Networks

In recent times, the growth in the number of subscribers of peer to peer networks has been phenomenal. Anonymity being a character of such networks also gave rise to the number of free-riders and malicious behaviors. Though free riders consume network bandwidth and decrease the network performance by displaying selfish behavior, they are not a serious threat for the rest of the co-operative peers. Malicious peers on the other hand, spread viruses, worms, Trojans in the network, provide misleading feedback and try to disrupt the existing trust among the peers. Therefore, it is absolutely essential that a peer has reliable reputation information about other peers in order make informed decisions (e.g., who to download files from, who to serve content, which is a malicious node etc.). In this paper, we have proposed a reputation system that uses objective criteria to track each peer’s contribution in the system and allows peers to store their reputations locally. In our opinion, such measures will eventually root out malicious peers from the system. 1
The complete mitochondrial genome of Tyspanodes hypsalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Abstract The size of Tyspanodes hypsalis (Warren, 1891) mitogenome was 15,329 bp in which the base composition of mitogenome was 40.0% A, 41.4% T, 11.9% G and 7.7% C. All protein-coding genes (PCGs) utilized the standard ATN, while COI used CGA as the initial codon. In addition, all PCGs had the common stop codon (TAN), except COI and ND5 respectively used incomplete termination codon T and TA. All tRNAs had the typical cloverleaf structure of mitochondrial tRNAs, with the exception of tRNASer(AGN), the dihydrouridine (DHU) arm of which forms a simple loop. The A + T-rich region of 350 bp contains several features common to the Lepidoptera insects. Including the motif “ATAGA” followed by a 17-bp poly-T stretch, a microsatellite-like (AT)8 element preceded by the ATTTA motif, and a 12 bp polyA-like stretch (AAATAAAAAAAAA) present immediately upstream tRNAMet.
Recommendations for the Use of Serious Games in Neurodegenerative Disorders: 2016 Delphi Panel

The use of Serious Games (SG) in the health domain is expanding. In the field of neurodegenerative disorders (ND) such as Alzheimer’s disease, SG are currently employed both to support and improve the assessment of different functional and cognitive abilities, and to provide alternative solutions for patients’ treatment, stimulation, and rehabilitation. As the field is quite young, recommendations on the use of SG in people with ND are still rare. In 2014 we proposed some initial recommendations (Robert et al., 2014). The aim of the present work was to update them, thanks to opinions gathered by experts in the field during an expert Delphi panel. Results confirmed that SG are adapted to elderly people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia, and can be employed for several purposes, including assessment, stimulation, and improving wellbeing, with some differences depending on the population (e.g., physical stimulation may be better suited for people with MCI). SG are more adapted for use with trained caregivers (both at home and in clinical settings), with a frequency ranging from 2 to 4 times a week. Importantly, the target of SG, their frequency of use and the context in which they are played depend on the SG typology (e.g., Exergame, cognitive game), and should be personalized with the help of a clinician.
Volcanological Applications of Doppler Radars: A Review and Examples from a Transportable Pulse Radar in L-Band

Many types of radar systems have been applied to the study of a wide range of volcanic features. Fields of application commonly include volcano deformation by interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR), mainly satellite-based (e.g. Froger et al., 2007) but also ground-based like LISA (Casagli et al., 2009), digital elevation model generation using satellite or airborne InSAR measurements, surface products mapping by amplitude images of satellite radars, characterization of unexposed deposits by ground-penetrating radars (Russell & Stasiuk, 1997), monitoring of active lava domes and flows by either ad-hoc ground-based radars (e.g. Malassingne et al., 2001; Macfarlane et al., 2006; Wadge et al., 2005, 2008) or commercial ones (Hort et al., 2006; Voge & Hort, 2008, 2009; Voge et al., 2008), and quantitative characterization of explosive activity by means of fixed weather radars (large ash plumes) and transportable radars (Strombolian activity, weak ash plumes). A thorough review of all radar applications in volcanology is beyond the scope of this chapter which, instead, focuses on recent investigations of explosive eruptive regimes enhanced by the developments of dedicated transportable ground-based radars, by the recent advances made in signal interpretation using eruption models, and by the important concerns raised by ash plume hazards.
Accurate Range-Only Tracking in Wireless Sensor Networks

This work presents initial results from a novel Range-Only Tracking System tailored for implementation in Wireless Sensor Networks. The system utilizes range estimates from a number of anchor nodes, positioned in known locations to infer the trace and velocity of a moving target. To include support for manoeuvring targets, the target’s movement is modeled using a multiple model state-space representation. A Particle Filter inspired tracking algorithm operates on the acquired ranging data to online estimate the target's position and two-axis velocity [1]. Preliminary results from simulating the system under realistic conditions, reveal that good accuracy (<10m) can be achieved, even under cluttered conditions.
DIRECTION GÉNÉRALE DES ÉTUDES ET DES RELATIONS INTERNATIONALES THE GROWTH-VOLATILITY RELATIONSHIP: NEW EVIDENCE BASED ON STOCHASTIC VOLATILITY IN MEAN MODELS

This paper models the relationship between growth and volatility for G7 economies in the time period 19602009. It delivers for the first time estimates of this relationship based on a logarithm variant of stochastic volatility in mean (SV-M) models. The relationship appears significantly positive in Germany and Italy, but insignificant in other countries. We also show that output volatility has increased in all countries since the beginning of the financial crisis, which illustrates the end of the great moderation. For comparison, the paper also delivers estimates based on a logarithm variant of GARCH in mean (log-GARCH-M) models, the class of time series models previously used in the literature to estimate the growth-volatility relationship. We show that SV-M models deliver results preferable to those of log-GARCH-M models, despite the high computational cost of their estimation. SV-M models fit generally better data than log-GARCH-M ones. As their residuals do not violate distribution assumptions, they do not deliver dubious conclusions concerning the significance of the relationship, which is the case of the log-GARCH-model for France, the UK and the US. Finally, SV-M models suggest a positive impact of unexpected volatility on output growth, which is not taken into account by log-GARCH-M models.
ARM 7 based Intelligent System for Surveillance and Street Light Management

The proposed intelligent street light management system with surveillance optimizes management efficiency of street lighting. Usually street lights are in ON condition for twelve hours per day. Sensors are used to reduce the power consumption also wireless controlling and monitoring system. Street lights can be wirelessly monitored and control with the help of the ZigBee wireless transceiver. The transceiver collects and monitors the total data of particular lamp. Whenever vehicle crosses, the intelligent street light management system, surveillance camera and the street light are switched on and image is captured using surveillance camera. The proposed novel intelligent street light management system with surveillance count and record the number of vehicles crossing the road along with date and time records. If there is any accident happens on the road the recorded information automatically sent to the monitoring system using Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and ZigBee.
Assessment of Therapy Responses and Prediction of Survival in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma Through Computer-Aided Volumetric Measurement on Computed Tomography Scans

Purpose: The purposes of this study were (1) to calculate the tumor volume in patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma using computed tomography (CT) scan images and a computer-aided measurement technique and (2) to investigate whether the baseline volume, or volume change after chemotherapy, predicts patient survival. Methods: We compiled the clinical characteristics and outcome from 30 patients enrolled in two clinical trials at our cancer center in which the patients were treated with induction chemotherapy followed by surgery and radiation. CT scans of 30 patients were obtained at baseline and after two cycles of chemotherapy. Tumor volumes were calculated using a semiautomated computer algorithm. Overall survival was measured using a landmark time at 3 months post-treatment start date such that all patients had already received two cycles of chemotherapy and a follow-up scan. Association of volume changes with overall survival were determined by a Cox Proportional Hazards Model or log-rank test. The relationship between both pre and postoperative clinical stage and baseline tumor volume was analyzed using the rank sum test. Results: The median baseline tumor volume was 473 cm3 (range, 61 cm3–2108 cm3). Patients with high preoperative stages (III and IV) had larger baseline tumor volume than those with low preoperative stages (I and II) (p = 0.05). Patients with baseline volumes smaller than 619 cm3 tended to survive longer than those with baseline volumes larger than or equal to 619 cm3 (p = 0.07). Percentage change of tumor volume from baseline to first follow-up CT after two cycles of chemotherapy was significantly associated with overall survival (hazard ratio: 1.94 [95% confidence interval, 1.05–3.60], p = 0.04). Whereas the relative change in modified RECIST measurements was not significantly associated with overall survival (hazard ratio: 1.06 [95% confidence interval, 0.96–1.16], p = 0.25). By classifying changes of tumor volumes between two scans into two groups, i.e., “increase” and “decrease,” a significant difference in survival was found between those who increased and decreased after two cycles of chemotherapy (p = 0.03). Conclusions: Changes in tumor volume after two cycles of chemotherapy predicted overall survival in patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma. Tumor volume at baseline was shown to be associated with preoperative clinical stage and survival. Computer-aided volumetric measurements may enable more reliable therapeutic response assessment and could provide additional prognostic information.
The epidemiology of carbapenemases in Latin America and the Caribbean

ABSTRACT Introduction: Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas spp. , and Acinetobacter spp. infections are major causes of morbidity and mortality, especially due to the emergence and spread of β-lactamases. Carbapenemases, which are β-lactamases with the capacity to hydrolyze or inactivate carbapenems, have become a serious concern as they have the largest hydrolytic spectrum and therefore limit the utility of most β-lactam antibiotics. Areas covered: Here, we present an update of the current status of carbapenemases in Latin America and the Caribbean. Expert commentary: The increased frequency of reports on carbapenemases in Latin America and the Caribbean shows that they have successfully spread and have even become endemic in some countries. Countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, and Mexico account for the majority of these reports. Early suspicion and detection along with implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs in all healthcare settings are crucial for the control and prevention of carbapenemase-producing bacteria.
Predictive value of prebronchodilator and postbronchodilator spirometry for COPD features and outcomes

Introduction We compared the predictive value of prebronchodilator and postbronchodilator spirometry for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) features and outcomes. Methods We analysed COPDGene data of 10 192 subjects with smoking history. We created regressions models with the following dependent variables: clinical, functional and radiographic features, and the following independent variables: prebronchodilator airflow obstruction (PREO) and postbronchodilator airflow obstruction (POSTO), prebronchodilator and postbronchodilator FEV1% predicted. We compared the model performance using the Akaike information criterion (AIC). Results The COPD prevalence was higher using PREO. About 8.5% had PREO but no airflow obstruction in postbronchodilator spirometry (POSTN) (PREO-POSTN) and 3% of all subjects had no aiflow obstruction in prebronchodilator spirometry (PREN) but POSTO (PREN-POSTO). We found no difference in COPD features and outcomes between PREO-POSTN and PREN-POSTO subjects. Although, both prebronchodilator and postbronchodilator spirometries are both associated with chronic bronchitis, dyspnoea, exercise capacity and COPD radiographic findings, models that included postbronchodilator spirometric measures performed better than models with prebronchodilator measures to predict these COPD features. The predictive value of prebronchodilator and postbronchodilator spirometries for respiratory exacerbations, change in forced expiratory volume in 1 s, dyspnoea and exercise capacity during a 5-year period is relatively similar, but postbronchodilator spirometric measures are better predictors of mortality based on AIC. Conclusions Postbronchodilator spirometry may be a more accurate predictor of COPD features and outcomes.
Interpretation of the AgNOR pattern in hematologic cytology.

Prof. Dr. K. Metze, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, POB 6111, State University of Campinas, BR 13081 Campinas-SP (Brazil) Nucleolar organizer regions (AgNORs) have been widely studied in a variety of neoplasias, but only a few investigations deal with AgNORs in blood diseases. We therefore read with interest the study by Nakamura et al. [1] on AgNORs in acute leuke-mias, and would like to comment on the subject of this article in the light of our own studies on AgNORs in bone marrow smears. In many investigations AgNOR spots have been counted individually, as has been done by Nakamura et al. Recent papers, however, emphasize the importance of additional criteria, such as morphologic differences between AgNORs, quantification of the silver-stained area, or separate counting of extraand intranucleolar silver-stained spots [2-9]. It has been shown for prostatic neoplasias [2,10,11], for melanocytic skin lesions [9], as well as for other proliferating tissues [8] that a combined quantitative-qualitative study of AgNORs, or morphometry of the silver-stained areas, is superior to a simple count of AgNOR spots. According to Crocker et al. [4], in a study on hemopoietic cells, we divided AgNORs into: (1) Clusters of dots within a matrix (nucleoli of cells in proliferation); (2) small dots scattered throughout the nucleoplasm not associated with a nucleolus, and (3) condensed argyrophilic structures corresponding to a small nucleolus of non-proliferating cells. In normal he-mopoiesis, each cell type had its own pattern of clusters and dots, according to the stage of maturation. Clusters were only observed in proliferating cells, while in mature non-proliferating cells only dots were seen. These results suggest physiological differences between clusters and dots and justify separate counting. We believe therefore that in leukemic cells, clusters and dots should not be counted together and the result cannot be compared with the number of dots in mature granulocytes. The AgNOR staining technique is very sensitive to incubation time and temperature. Minor alterations of these parameters can lead to enlargement and confluence of the silver-stained spots to a large silver-stained area in the nucleolus, which artificially reduces the AgNOR count [6]. We think that this was the case in the report of Nakamura et al. [1], because in their figure 1 the nucleoli of the leukemic blasts are stained homogeneously. We are sure that with a slightly shorter incubation time the authors could have shown groups of silver-stained spots surrounded by a light matrix in the nucleoli, as has been demonstrated by us for normal [12]