Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Direct reconstruction algorithm of current dipoles for vector magnetoencephalography and electroencephalography

This paper presents a novel algorithm to reconstruct parameters of a sufficient number of current dipoles that describe data (equivalent current dipoles, ECDs, hereafter) from radial/vector magnetoencephalography (MEG) with and without electroencephalography (EEG). We assume a three-compartment head model and arbitrary surfaces on which the MEG sensors and EEG electrodes are placed. Via the multipole expansion of the magnetic field, we obtain algebraic equations relating the dipole parameters to the vector MEG/EEG data. By solving them directly, without providing initial parameter guesses and computing forward solutions iteratively, the dipole positions and moments projected onto the xy-plane (equatorial plane) are reconstructed from a single time shot of the data. In addition, when the head layers and the sensor surfaces are spherically symmetric, we show that the required data reduce to radial MEG only. This clarifies the advantage of vector MEG/EEG measurements and algorithms for a generally-shaped head and sensor surfaces. In the numerical simulations, the centroids of the patch sources are well localized using vector/radial MEG measured on the upper hemisphere. By assuming the model order to be larger than the actual dipole number, the resultant spurious dipole is shown to have a much smaller strength magnetic moment (about 0.05 times smaller when the SNR = 16 dB), so that the number of ECDs is reasonably estimated. We consider that our direct method with greatly reduced computational cost can also be used to provide a good initial guess for conventional dipolar/multipolar fitting algorithms.
Effects of iterative detection and decoding on the performance of BLAST

In BLAST (Bell Labs' Layered Space Time) systems, very high spectral efficiency can be achieved by employing antenna arrays at both transmit and receive sides. Coding for these array systems is an interesting topic, as such, has seen intensive research. We study coding architectures constructed from conventional codes including convolutional codes and Reed Solomon codes. Our main interest is in the performance and complexity trade-offs involved in the design of coding/decoding and signal detection algorithms. We show that iterative detection and decoding (IDD) can significantly improve the performance of coded BLAST. In some cases, IDD allows for very simple detection algorithms to be used at the receiver front end. Therefore, it may in fact reduce the overall receiver complexity. Our results again demonstrate that coded V-BLAST (vertical-BLAST) is a promising architecture to achieve the great potential of BLAST with limited complexity.
A Knowledge-Based Model of Radical Innovation in Small Software Firms

In this paper, we adopt the lens of absorptive capacity (ACAP), defined by two dimensions--the knowledge base (consisting of knowledge diversity, depth, and linkages) and routines (consisting of sensing and experimentation)--to explain how a software firm's knowledge endowments influence its level of radical information technology innovation during a technological breakthrough. We distinguish three types of IT innovations--base, processes, and service innovation--that form an innovation ecology. We posit that (1) ACAP is a relational construct where the impact of the knowledge base is mediated by routines; (2) IT innovations are either externally adopted or internally generated; and (3) knowledge antecedents associated with different types of innovations differ. We hypothesize a three-step, mediated path (knowledge base → sensing → experimentation → innovation) for external innovation adoption, and a two-step path (knowledge diversity/depth → experimentation → innovation) for internal innovation creation to explain the software firm's level of radical innovation across three IT innovation types. We validate the model through a cross-sector study that examined how 121 small software firms innovated with Internet computing. We confirm the mediated nature of ACAP for external base innovations, which are driven by all three knowledge-based factors as follows: (1) knowledge depth (direct positive effect); (2) knowledge diversity (mediated three-step path), (3) knowledge linkages (mediated three step path). Process innovations are externally driven by a three-step mediated path for knowledge linkages, as well as being directly affected by knowledge diversity, but negatively and directly impeded by knowledge depth. Service innovations are not driven by any mediated influence of ACAP, but driven directly by knowledge diversity. At the same time, both service and process innovations are strongly influenced by prior IT innovations: base and/or service. Several directions for future studies of radical IT innovation are proposed.
Measurement of ventilation during cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Determining adequacy of mechanical ventilation is as important during CPR as in a more stable situation (such as, a patient on a ventilator in an ICU). Yet, such assessment during CPR usually only means listening for breath sounds, checking chest excursion, and blood gases. Exhaled tidal volume (VT) was measured on 45 intubated adult patients during resuscitation using a Wright's spirometer attached to a T-valve above the endotracheal tube. Ten patients had aspiration prior to intubation; 15 received advanced cardiac life support in the field, including esophageal airway insertion. CPR was performed in all cases with a mechanical compression device-(Thumper). The pressure ventilator on this device was calibrated (peak inspiratory pressure, VT vs compliance) using a Dixie Test Lung, allowing indirect assessment of pulmonary compliance during CPR.Our findings suggest that lung compliance is markedly reduced within a short time after cardiac arrest. Fifty-five. % of patients in this series could not be adequately oxygenated (Pao2 < 50 torr) despite an FIO2 of 0.8 and adequate ventilation. Due to the reduced cardiac output during CPR causing venoarterial shunting, it is speculated that pulmonary edema is the most plausible explanation for this observation.
Effects of actinomycin D on ACTH-induced corticosteroidogenesis.

Actinomycin D was found to abolish completely the in vitro steroidogenic effect of ACTH during incubations of cow adrenal slices. The antibiotic had no effect on base line (control) corticosteroid production or on the enhanced production of corticosteroids due to addition of glucose-6-PO4, plus TPN. The inhibitory effects of actinomycin D were reversible and were evident only if the antibiotic was present during the preincubation and incubation with ACTH. In contrast to the results obtained with bovine adrenal tissue slices, actinomycin D had little or no effect on ACTH-induced corticosteroid production during incubations of rat adrenal quarters, despite inhibition of precursor incorporation into RNA. The latter, however, was not complete, and, while a role for RNA synthesis was not apparent in the rat adrenal, it could not be fully excluded. The incorporation of orotic acid-6-14C into cow adrenal (but not rat adrenal) RNA was enhanced by ACTH, and a linear relationship between orotic acid incorporation a.
Quality‐assured long‐term satellite‐based leaf area index product

Global long-term Satellite-based leaf area index (LAI) products have been generated and applied widely for understanding the feedbacks between climate and terrestrial vegetation. However, these long-term LAI products are not internally consistent over time and also not consistent with each other, which means they might be not suitable for serving as reference datasets in long-term global change research. Therefore, there is a strong need for a qualityassured long-term LAI product with reliable, traceable and understandable quality information. The Quality Assurance for Essential Climate Variables (QA4ECV) project is developing a quality assurance framework to provide understandable and traceable quality information for ECVs such as LAI. The LAI produced from this framework will add greater transparency and openness between ECV producers and end users, and facilitate the application of a long-term LAI product for global change research.
The Utility of Wavelet Transform in Surface Electromyography Feature Extraction -A Comparative Study of Different Mother Wavelets

Electromyography (EMG) signal processing has been investigated remarkably regarding various applications such as in rehabilitation systems. Specifically, wavelet transform has served as a powerful technique to scrutinize EMG signals since wavelet transform is consistent with the nature of EMG as a non-stationary signal. In this paper, the efficiency of wavelet transform in surface EMG feature extraction is investigated from four levels of wavelet decomposition and a comparative study between different mother wavelets had been done. To recognize the best function and level of wavelet analysis, two evaluation criteria, scatter plot and RES index are recruited. Hereupon, four wavelet families, namely, Daubechies, Coiflets, Symlets and Biorthogonal are studied in wavelet decomposition stage. Consequently, the results show that only features from first and second level of wavelet decomposition yields good performance and some functions of various wavelet families can lead to an improvement in separability class of different hand movements.
Recent advances in the study of biocorrosion: an overview

Biocorrosion processes at metal surfaces are associated with microorganisms, or the products of their metabolic activities including enzymes, exopolymers, organic and inorganic acids, as well as volatile compounds such as ammonia or hydrogen sulfide. These can affect cathodic and/or anodic reactions, thus altering electrochemistry at the biofilm/metal interface. Various mechanisms of biocorrosion, reflecting the variety of physiological activities carried out by different types of microorganisms, are identified and recent insights into these mechanisms reviewed. Many modern investigations have centered on the microbially-influenced corrosion of ferrous and copper alloys and particular microorganisms of interest have been the sulfate-reducing bacteria and metal (especially manganese)-depositing bacteria. The importance of microbial consortia and the role of extracellular polymeric substances in biocorrosion are emphasized. The contribution to the study of biocorrosion of modern analytical techniques, such as atomic force microscopy, Auger electron, X-ray photoelectron and Mossbauer spectroscopy, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and microsensors, is discussed.
Cytoplasmic accumulation of connexin32 expands cancer stem cell population in human HuH7 hepatoma cells by enhancing its self‐renewal

Although the connexin32 (Cx32)‐mediated gap junction is abolished in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the expression of cytoplasmic Cx32 tends to increase in correspondence with the grade of malignancy. Establishing a Tet‐off expression system in human nonmetastatic HuH7 HCC cells where cytoplasmic Cx32 was overexpressed by doxycycline (Dox) withdrawal, we previously demonstrated that overexpression of cytoplasmic Cx32 made HuH7 cells metastatic in mice. In our study, hypothesizing that the cytoplasmic Cx32‐induced metastasis may involve expansion of the cancer stem cell (CSC) population, we examined whether cytoplasmic Cx32 controlled the size of the side population (SP) in HuH7 Tet‐off Cx32 cells. Fluorescence‐activated cell sorting revealed that SP was expanded in a Dox‐free medium compared with a Dox‐supplemented one. Although cytoplasmic Cx32 did not block maturation from SP to non‐SP, purified SP reconstituted a larger SP fraction in the Dox‐free medium than in the Dox‐supplemented one. Furthermore, although SP from HuH7 Tet‐off mock cells formed a similar number of CSC spheres of a similar size whether with or without Dox, SP from HuH7 Tet‐off Cx32 cells developed a greater number of larger CSC spheres in the Dox‐free medium than in the Dox‐supplemented one. Taken together, these results suggest that accumulation of cytoplasmic Cx32 should enhance self‐renewal of CSC to expand the CSC population in HCC.
“Rule of Six”: How Does the Sendai Virus RNA Polymerase Keep Count?

ABSTRACT The “rule of six” stipulates that the ParamyxovirusRNA polymerase efficiently replicates only viral genomes counting 6n + 0 nucleotides. Because the nucleocapsid proteins (N) interact with 6 nucleotides, an exact nucleotide-N match at the RNA 3′-OH end (3′-OH congruence) may be required for recognition of an active replication promoter. Alternatively, assuming that the six positions for the interaction of N with the nucleotides are not equivalent, the nucleotide position relative to N may be critical (N phase context). The replication abilities of various minireplicons, designed so that the 3′-OH congruence could be discriminated from the N phase context, were studied. The results strongly suggest that the application of the rule of six depends on the recognition of nucleotides positioned in the proper N phase context.
Dispelling the myths of epidural pain relief in childbirth.

ADVANCES IN LABOUR EPIDURAL ANALGESIA Combined spinal epidural analgesia Combined spinal epidural (CSE) involves using an epidural needle to localise the epidural space. Prior to inserting the epidural catheter, a spinal needle is introduced through the epidural needle into the subarachnoid space and a small intrathecal dose of local anaesthetics and/or opioid is administered. In a review of 1,532 patients over a six-month period in our centre, CSE accounted for 80% of all neuraxial blocks performed for labour analgesia (versus epidural 20%)(4).
We all wear dark glasses now

The story describes a world of the future in which there are two entirely different groups of people, one involved in the development and reproduction of the industrial base of the country and ruled by a centrally controlled virtual reality that is subject to constant innovation through a totally controlling fashion machine. The ruling group who control and maintain the other group have access to the full richness of the technology they administer and use to keep the world in order and are free to experience reality in an entirely different way. This is about the way that a breakdown in the system is dealt with and is told from the perspective of a third party observing these two groups
Social support and self-management of type 2 diabetes among immigrant Australian women

Objective: To elucidate the social meanings and interpretations that immigrant women attach to the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, and the social support and professional advice that they receive following this diagnosis. Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted with 16 immigrant women living in Melbourne, Australia, from communities with a higher than average incidence of type 2 diabetes. Women were recruited purposively through general practitioners and community organizations. The women's initial reaction to the diagnosis of diabetes, understandings of the behavioural changes required to control symptoms and prevent complications and the nature of the social and professional supports were discussed. Interviews were audio-taped, transcribed, coded and analysed thematically by both authors. Results: Some women were critical of their doctors but also manipulated their encounters to avoid receiving unwelcome information about the progress of the disease and consequent required changes in management. Social interactions influenced women's adjustments to diagnosis and informed their communication and adaptation of their lives. Choice of support varied by cultural background, but many respondents reflected on the thin line between support and interference. All women found most understanding from others living with diabetes. Discussion: The social context of people with type 2 diabetes is important in facilitating or inhibiting the management of the condition. Variations in attitudes to family and professionals influenced adherence to advice and emphasized the need for appropriate support to women to sustain behavioural change.
THE EFFECT OF SELENIUM ON MERCURY TRANSPORT ALONG THE FOOD CHAIN

More than 500 years of mercury (Hg) production in Idrija (Slovenia) resulted in a considerable pollution of Idrija region with Hg. Although the mine is closed for more than 20 years, the total soil concentration of Hg may still reach up to several hundred mgkg-1dry weightin local gardens and more that thousand inother urban regions. Hg in soil undergoesdifferent chemical transformations and in some formsit may enterplants and higher trophic levelsin food chains, also with biomagnification pattern.The local population is, besides air and dust, thus exposed to mercury also via consumption of locally produced food.Several studies showed that the increased level of selenium in soil may reduce the uptake of mercury in plants but very few include other trophic levels in a food chain as well.In our pilot study we followed an impact of Seon Hg transport from soil to plants (Lactucasativa) and further to soil dwelling animals (Porcellioscaber). Lettuce was planted in a contaminated soil from Idrija and in soil with added HgCl2. The leaves of half of the plants weresprayed with Sesolution (5μg L-1)threeand five weeks after planting.After six weeks plants were analyzed for Hg and Se and offered as food to terrestrial isopods for two weeks. Our preliminary results revealed that foliar treatment of plants with Se may affect Hg accumulation in plants and therefore further transport of Hg across the food chain.
A Dual-Active-Bridge-Based Single-Phase AC to DC Power Electronic Transformer With Advanced Features

Power electronic transformers (PETs) offer the advantage of size and weight reduction compared to line-frequency transformers by operating at much higher frequencies than line frequency. In this paper, a push–pull-based ac/dc PET has been proposed and analyzed. The PET offers bidirectional power flow between single-phase ac and dc, using the dual-active bridge principle. Such a system may find applications in interfacing plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles to the grid. The proposed PET offers advantages of open-loop unity power factor operation, soft switching of secondary-side converter power switches for all operating points, high power density owing to use of a high-frequency transformer, and high utilization factor (UF), compared to previous work. Analysis has been done for power transfer, UF, and soft switching. Simulation and experimental results have been provided to demonstrate the operation of the PET.
Five-Year Incidence of Periodontal Disease Is Related to Body Mass Index

Numerous cross-sectional epidemiological studies suggest that obesity is associated with periodontal disease. This longitudinal study tested whether body mass index (BMI) was related to the development of periodontal disease in a sample of employed Japanese participants. Data are from the statutory medical checkups routinely collected for employees in and around Nagoya, Japan. The authors tested the relationship between BMI at baseline and the 5-year incidence of periodontal disease in a sample of 2787 males and 803 females. The hazard ratios for developing periodontal disease after 5 years were 1.30 (P < .001) and 1.44 (P = .072) in men and 1.70 (P < .01) and 3.24 (P < .05) in women for those with BMIs of 25-30 and ≥ 30, respectively, compared to those with BMI < 22, after adjusting for age, smoking status, and clinical history of diabetes mellitus. These findings demonstrate a dose-response relationship between BMI and the development of periodontal disease in a population of Japanese individuals.
Positioning Map: a Visual Technique to Improve the Layout of Diagram Contextual Information

The presentation of information is a difficult activity. It requires to deal with model complexity, characterised among other things by the number of visual elements per diagram. In this position paper, we propose a positioning map constructed by combining the navigation and locator maps – two techniques resulting from the theoretical principles of effective communication. We believe that the positioning map is a better means than navigation and locator maps together to decompose models and to integrate their information cognitively. However, we still need to validate our proposal through empirical studies.
Autosomal dominant spastic paraplegia with peripheral neuropathy maps to chr12q23-24

Objective: Hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSP) are genetically exceedingly heterogeneous. To date, 37 genetic loci for HSP have been described (SPG1-41), among them 16 loci for autosomal dominant disease. Notwithstanding, further genetic heterogeneity is to be expected in HSP, as various HSP families do not link to any of the known HSP loci. In this study, we aimed to map the disease locus in a German family segregating autosomal dominant complicated HSP. Methods: A genome-wide linkage analysis was performed using the GeneChip Mapping 10Kv2.0 Xba Array containing 10,204 SNP markers. Suggestive loci were further analyzed by mapping of microsatellite markers. Results: One locus on chromosome 12q23-24, termed SPG36, was confirmed by high density microsatellite fine mapping with a significant LOD score of 3.2. SPG36 is flanked by markers D12S318 and D12S79. Linkage to SPG36 was excluded in >20 additional autosomal dominant HSP families. Candidate genes were selected and sequenced. No disease-causing mutations were identified in the coding regions of ATXN2, HSPB8, IFT81, Myo1H, UBE3B, and VPS29. SPG36 is complicated by a sensory and motor neuropathy; it is therefore the eighth autosomal dominant subtype of complicated HSP. Conclusion: We report mapping of a new locus for autosomal dominant hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) (SPG36) on chromosome 12q23-24 in a German family with autosomal dominant HSP complicated by peripheral neuropathy. ATR = Achilles tendon reflex; CMAP = compound muscle action potential; CMT = central motor time; DML = distal motor latency; FDI = fist dorsal interosseus muscle; HSP = hereditary spastic paraplegia; MNCV = motor nerve conduction velocity; PTR = patella tendon reflex; SNAP = sensory nerve action potential; SNCV = sensory nerve conduction velocity; SPRS = Spastic Paraplegia Rating Scale; TA = tibialis anterior muscle.