Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Minimal hypersurfaces in Kaehler scalar flat ALE spaces

In this paper we give a new general method to describe all Kaehler scalar flat metrics on $U(n)$-invariant domains of C^n in a way to be able to detect easily whether it can be completed to larger domains and which kind of ends they can have. This new approach makes possible to decide whether the corresponding metrics contain a minimal sphere among the standard euclidean ones. We will show also how to check the stability (i.e. minimizing volume up to second order) of such submanifolds. We apply the present analysis to a comparison between Penrose Inequality, which requires the presence of a stable minimal hypersurface, and Hein-LeBrun's, which requires the ambient space to be Kaehler and predicts the existence of a special divisor, and we will show that Penrose Inequality does indeed hold in any dimension for this class of manifolds, and that the two inequalities are indeed incomparable in that for these manifolds a stable minimal surface and a divisor never coexist.
A Spike-and-Slab Prior for Dimension Selection in Generalized Linear Network Eigenmodels

Latent space models (LSMs) are frequently used to model network data by embedding a network's nodes into a low-dimensional latent space; however, choosing the dimension of this space remains a challenge. To this end, we begin by formalizing a class of LSMs we call generalized linear network eigenmodels (GLNEMs) that can model various edge types (binary, ordinal, non-negative continuous) found in scientific applications. This model class subsumes the traditional eigenmodel by embedding it in a generalized linear model with an exponential dispersion family random component and fixes identifiability issues that hindered interpretability. Next, we propose a Bayesian approach to dimension selection for GLNEMs based on an ordered spike-and-slab prior that provides improved dimension estimation and satisfies several appealing theoretical properties. In particular, we show that the model's posterior concentrates on low-dimensional models near the truth. We demonstrate our approach's consistent dimension selection on simulated networks. Lastly, we use GLNEMs to study the effect of covariates on the formation of networks from biology, ecology, and economics and the existence of residual latent structure.
FluentEditor: Text-based Speech Editing by Considering Acoustic and Prosody Consistency

Text-based speech editing (TSE) techniques are designed to enable users to edit the output audio by modifying the input text transcript instead of the audio itself. Despite much progress in neural network-based TSE techniques, the current techniques have focused on reducing the difference between the generated speech segment and the reference target in the editing region, ignoring its local and global fluency in the context and original utterance. To maintain the speech fluency, we propose a fluency speech editing model, termed \textit{FluentEditor}, by considering fluency-aware training criterion in the TSE training. Specifically, the \textit{acoustic consistency constraint} aims to smooth the transition between the edited region and its neighboring acoustic segments consistent with the ground truth, while the \textit{prosody consistency constraint} seeks to ensure that the prosody attributes within the edited regions remain consistent with the overall style of the original utterance. The subjective and objective experimental results on VCTK demonstrate that our \textit{FluentEditor} outperforms all advanced baselines in terms of naturalness and fluency. The audio samples and code are available at \url{https://github.com/Ai-S2-Lab/FluentEditor}.
RTS-GT: Robotic Total Stations Ground Truthing dataset

Numerous datasets and benchmarks exist to assess and compare Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) algorithms. Nevertheless, their precision must follow the rate at which SLAM algorithms improved in recent years. Moreover, current datasets fall short of comprehensive data-collection protocol for reproducibility and the evaluation of the precision or accuracy of the recorded trajectories. With this objective in mind, we proposed the Robotic Total Stations Ground Truthing dataset (RTS-GT) dataset to support localization research with the generation of six-Degrees Of Freedom (DOF) ground truth trajectories. This novel dataset includes six-DOF ground truth trajectories generated using a system of three Robotic Total Stations (RTSs) tracking moving robotic platforms. Furthermore, we compare the performance of the RTS-based system to a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS)-based setup. The dataset comprises around sixty experiments conducted in various conditions over a period of 17 months, and encompasses over 49 kilometers of trajectories, making it the most extensive dataset of RTS-based measurements to date. Additionally, we provide the precision of all poses for each experiment, a feature not found in the current state-of-the-art datasets. Our results demonstrate that RTSs provide measurements that are 22 times more stable than GNSS in various environmental settings, making them a valuable resource for SLAM benchmark development.
Audio Contrastive based Fine-tuning

Audio classification plays a crucial role in speech and sound processing tasks with a wide range of applications. There still remains a challenge of striking the right balance between fitting the model to the training data (avoiding overfitting) and enabling it to generalise well to a new domain. Leveraging the transferability of contrastive learning, we introduce Audio Contrastive-based Fine-tuning (AudioConFit), an efficient approach characterised by robust generalisability. Empirical experiments on a variety of audio classification tasks demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of our approach, which achieves state-of-the-art results in various settings.
Urban Segregation on multilayered transport networks: a random walk approach

We present a novel method for analysing socio-spatial segregation in cities by considering constraints imposed by transportation networks. Using a multilayered network approach, we model the interaction probabilities of socio-economic groups with random walks and L\'evy flights. This method allows for evaluation of new transport infrastructure's impact on segregation while quantifying each network's contribution to interaction opportunities. The proposed random walk segregation index measures the probability of individuals encountering diverse social groups based on their available means of transit via random walks. The index incorporates temporal constraints in urban mobility with a parameter, $\alpha \in [0,1)$, of the probability of the random walk continuing at each time step. By applying this to a toy model and conducting a sensitivity analysis, we explore how the index changes dependent on this temporal constraint. When the parameter equals zero, the measure simplifies to an isolation index. When the parameter approaches one it represents the city's overall socio-economic distribution by mirroring the steady-state of the random walk process. Using Cuenca, Ecuador as a case study, we illustrate the method's applicability in transportation planning as a valuable tool for policymakers, addressing spatial distribution of socio-economic groups and the connectivity of existing transport networks, thus promoting equitable interactions throughout the city.
Survey of Aspect-based Sentiment Analysis Datasets

Aspect-based sentiment analysis (ABSA) is a natural language processing problem that requires analyzing user-generated reviews in order to determine: a) The target entity being reviewed, b) The high-level aspect to which it belongs, and c) The sentiment expressed toward the targets and the aspects. Numerous yet scattered corpora for ABSA make it difﬁcult for researchers to quickly identify corpora best suited for a speciﬁc ABSA subtask. This study aims to present a database of corpora that can be used to train and assess autonomous ABSA systems. Additionally, we provide an overview of the major corpora concerning the various ABSA and its subtasks and highlight several corpus features that researchers should consider when selecting a corpus. We conclude that further large-scale ABSA corpora are required. Additionally, because each corpus is constructed differently, it is time-consuming for researchers to experiment with a novel ABSA algorithm on many corpora and often employ just one or a few corpora. The ﬁeld would beneﬁt from an agreement on a data standard for ABSA corpora. Finally, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of current collection approaches and make recommendations for future ABSA dataset gathering.
Brain-inspired neural circuit evolution for spiking neural networks

Significance Different neural circuits in the brain are involved in the development of different cognitive functions, and the adaptive synergy of the circuits promotes human perception, learning, and decision-making. The current structure design of the spiking neural network still draws on the architecture of deep learning and does not fully reflect the characteristics of spiking neural networks. In this paper, biologically plausible neural circuit structures are evolved by introducing excitatory inhibitory neurons and feedforward feedback connections in the brain through the local unsupervised learning rules. By combining the global error signal, the evolved spiking neural network greatly enhances capability in both perception and reinforcement learning.
Maternal childhood maltreatment: associations to offspring brain volume and white matter connectivity

Abstract The deleterious effects of adversity are likely intergenerational, such that one generation’s adverse experiences can affect the next. Epidemiological studies link maternal adversity to offspring depression and anxiety, possibly via transmission mechanisms that influence offspring fronto-limbic connectivity. However, studies have not thoroughly disassociated postnatal exposure effects nor considered the role of offspring sex. We utilized infant neuroimaging to test the hypothesis that maternal childhood maltreatment (CM) would be associated with increased fronto-limbic connectivity in infancy and tested brain-behavior associations in childhood. Ninety-two dyads participated (32 mothers with CM, 60 without; 52 infant females, 40 infant males). Women reported on their experiences of CM and non-sedated sleeping infants underwent MRIs at 2.44 ± 2.74 weeks. Brain volumes were estimated via structural MRI and white matter structural connectivity (fiber counts) via diffusion MRI with probabilistic tractography. A subset of parents (n = 36) reported on children’s behaviors at age 5.17 ± 1.73 years. Males in the maltreatment group demonstrated greater intra-hemispheric fronto-limbic connectivity (b = 0.96, p= 0.008, [95%CI 0.25, 1.66]), no differences emerged for females. Fronto-limbic connectivity was related to somatic complaints in childhood only for males (r = 0.673, p = 0.006). Our findings suggest that CM could have intergenerational associations to offspring brain development, yet mechanistic studies are needed.
The effect of telemetric devices on the flight and swimming performance of birds

In studying animal behavior the use of telemetric devices is very common, as it is able to give detailed information about the animal’s activities (e.g. migration routes, population dynamics etc.) from a distance. Telemetric devices are also used to study physiological aspects, like heart rate and body temperature. However, equipping animals with devices could influence their behavior and ecology. Through literature research the effect of external devices on migratory and aquatic bird species have been determined. It turns out that external devices are causing an increase in drag which strongly affects the flight performance of migrating species and the swimming performance of aquatic species. For migrating species this means that there is an increase in energy expenditure, decrease in migration range and a decrease in return rates for equipped birds. Furthermore, it turned out that bird species migrating longer distances had a stronger decrease in return rates than birds with medium or short migration distance. For aquatic bird species equipped with devices, mostly penguins, the devices were causing an increase in energy expenditure and an increase in diving time. Also a negative correlation with the size of the device (i.e. cross-sectional area) and swimming speed and diving depth was determined for some penguin species. The results strongly point out the importance of being critical as it comes to using telemetric devices. It is suggested that researchers try to minimize the effects of the devices by first studying the effects of the device on the animal (literature of practical research) and stay critical as it comes to interpreting their data.
Regional Socio-Economic Transformation in Brazil

The regional income disparities in Brazil are well-known. Since the 1930s, such income disparities have declined only slightly. This thesis combines traditional economic theory with insights from regional science and economic geography to explain the development pattern in Brazil throughout the 20th century, using a wide range of data sets. It contributes to the consolidation of the field of New Economic Geography because some tools employed in this thesis have not yet had widespread use in the literature. The thesis also brings new insights for the understanding of Brazil’s development process. The key finding of the thesis is that there has been almost time-invariant spatial autocorrelation in Brazil’s growth process that impedes the lagging regions from catching up. The reason for this is that there is a clear cluster of contiguous rich regions (Southeast and South) – i.e. the core - characterised not only by high real income levels and high market potential, but also by the fact that they have the largest markets and are the platform of the global economy in Brazil. In contrast, there is another cluster of contiguous poor regions (North and Northeast) – the periphery - that has low real income levels, low market potential and low market access. The agglomeration of population and economic activity explains the observed concentration pattern. Although there were some efforts made through regional development policy to narrow the gaps amongst the regions, the agglomeration forces are very strong in Brazil. The creation of Brasilia did not offset these agglomeration forces, partially because place-based policies matter. The creation of Brasilia obviously had major implications for Brasilia itself, but did not offset the agglomeration forces that led to the dominance of Sao Paulo. Similarly, investment in other lagging regions may not offset the advantages of Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, but they may improve economic conditions in the lagging regions themselves if income transfers or subsidies are done for efficient industries.
How does joint impairment affect the functional capacity of the lower limb in early haemophilia‐related arthropathy?

The impact of joint damage on functional capacity in patients with mild haemophilia (PwMH) has yet to be well studied. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effect of joint impairment on the functional capacity of the lower limb in PwMH. The secondary aim was to identify physical predictors of lower limb functional capacity.
Effects of mating on female reproductive physiology in the insect model, Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of the causative parasite of Chagas disease

The blood-sucking hemipteran Rhodnius prolixus is one of the main vectors of Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease that affects several million people worldwide. Consuming a blood meal and mating are events with a high epidemiological impact since after each meal, mated females can lay fertile eggs that result in hundreds of offspring. Thus, a better knowledge of the control of R. prolixus reproductive capacity may provide targets for developing novel strategies to control vector populations, thereby reducing vector-host contacts and disease transmission. Here, we have used a combination of gene transcript expression analysis, biochemical assays, hormone measurements and studies of locomotory activity to investigate how mating influences egg development and egg laying rates in R. prolixus females. The results demonstrate that a blood meal increases egg production capacity and leads to earlier egg laying in mated females compared to virgins. Virgin females, however, have increased survival rate over mated females. Circulating juvenile hormone (JH) and ecdysteroid titers are increased in mated females, a process mainly driven through an upregulation of the transcripts for their biosynthetic enzymes in the corpus allatum and ovaries, respectively. Mated females display weaker locomotory activity compared to virgin females, mainly during the photophase. In essence, this study shows how reproductive output and behaviour are profoundly influenced by mating, highlighting molecular, biochemical, endocrine and behavioral features differentially expressed in mated and virgin R. prolixus females.
Isolated Femoral or Tibial Component Revision in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review

Objective: The purpose of this systematic review was to assess clinical and radiographic outcomes, complication rates, rates and reasons of re-revision of isolated femoral or tibial component revisions, comparing them with total knee revisions. Methods: A review of the published literature was performed using MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane libraries. The terms “isolate” and “revision” and “knee arthroplasty” or “knee replacement” were together used as MeSH terms. Partial knee replacement, non-English literature, case reports, and papers published before 2000 were excluded. Results: Out of 911 papers, six papers met the inclusion criteria. Mean MINORS scores achieved quite low values (13.33 and 13.67). No study encompassed revisions for septic loosening or infection. Total revisions performed for instability and wear achieved better clinical outcomes: in the other cases, partial and total revisions showed no differences in clinical outcomes. Both the cohorts showed similar radiographic features. Lesser bleeding and shorter operative times were observed in partial revisions compared to total revisions. The re-revision rates were similar in most of comparative studies: only one study noticed a significant difference in the failure rate between partial (25% at 3 years) and full (7% at 3.5 years) revisions. Conclusions: The poor quality of the studies precluded sound conclusions. Isolated tibial or femoral component revision is an option when the other component is well fixed and positioned and in absence of chronic periprosthetic infection; nevertheless, it should be carefully evaluated when the reasons for revision are wear or instability.
Blending Video Therapy and Digital Self-Help for Individuals With Suicidal Ideation: Intervention Design and a Qualitative Study Within the Development Process

Background Digital formats have the potential to enhance accessibility to care for individuals with suicidal ideation. However, digital self-help interventions have faced limitations, including small effect sizes in reducing suicidal ideation, low adherence, and safety concerns. Objective Therefore, we aimed to develop a remote blended cognitive behavioral therapy intervention that specifically targets suicidal ideation by blending video therapy with web-based self-help modules. The objective of this paper is to describe the collaborative development process and the resulting intervention and treatment rationale. Methods First, we compiled intervention components from established treatment manuals designed for people with suicidal ideation or behavior, resulting in the development of 11 drafts of web-based modules. Second, we conducted a qualitative study, involving 5 licensed psychotherapists and 3 lay counselors specialized in individuals with suicidal ideation who reviewed these module drafts. Data were collected using the think-aloud method and semistructured interviews, and a qualitative content analysis was performed. The 4 a priori main categories of interest were blended care for individuals with suicidal ideation, contents of web-based modules, usability of modules, and layout. Subcategories emerged inductively from the interview transcripts. Finally, informed by previous treatment manuals and qualitative findings, we developed the remote blended treatment program. Results The participants suggested that therapists should thoroughly prepare the web-based therapy with patients to tailor the therapy to each individual’s needs. Participants emphasized that the web-based modules should explain concepts in a simple manner, convey empathy and validation, and include reminders for the safety plan. In addition, participants highlighted the need for a simple navigation and layout. Taking these recommendations into account, we developed a fully remote blended cognitive behavioral therapy intervention comprising 12 video therapy sessions and up to 31 web-based modules. The treatment involves collaboratively developing a personalized treatment plan to address individual suicidal drivers. Conclusions This remote treatment takes advantage of the high accessibility of digital formats while incorporating full sessions with a therapist. In a subsequent pilot trial, we will seek input from individuals with lived experience and therapists to test the feasibility of the treatment.
Etelcalcetide Inhibits the Progression of Left Atrial Volume Index Compared to Alfacalcidol in Hemodialysis Patients

Introduction: Increased left atrial (LA) size is a risk factor for cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality. It is closely related to left ventricular hypertrophy and chronic volume overload, both of which are common in hemodialysis. Calcimimetic treatment with etelcalcetide (ETL) previously showed an inhibitory effect on left ventricular mass index (LVMI) progression in this population. Methods: This is a post hoc analysis of the EtECAR-HD trial, where 62 patients were randomized to ETL or alfacalcidol (ALFA) for 1 year. LA volume index (LAVI) was measured using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. The aim of the study was to investigate whether ETL was associated with a change of LAVI. Results: Median baseline levels of LAVI were 40 mL/m2 (31, 54 IQR) in the ETL group and 36 mL/m2 (26, 46 IQR) in the ALFA group. In the ITT population, the change of LAVI was 5.0 mL/m2 [95% CI: −0.04, 10] lower under ETL, compared to ALFA (p = 0.052, R2adj = 0.259). In the PP population, the difference in LAVI changes widened to 5.8 [95% CI: 0.36, 11], p = 0.037, R2adj = 0.302). Secondary analysis showed that the study delta of LVMI was correlated with the LAVI delta (r = 0.387) and that an inclusion of LVMI delta in the ANCOVA model mediated the effect on LAVI delta to β = 3.3 [95% CI: −0.04, 10] (p = 0.2, R2adj = 0.323). The same could not be observed for parameters assessing the volume status. Conclusions: The analysis indicates that ETL could inhibit LAVI progression compared with ALFA. This effect was mediated by the change of LVMI.
Evaluation of Non‐Compressive Transvaginal Cervical Elastography as a Quantitative Imaging Biomarker in Pregnancy

Non‐compressive strain elastography has been proposed as a novel quantitative imaging biomarker for assessing the structure and function of the cervix. The current study aims to assess the repeatability, and intra‐ and inter‐observer reliability of transvaginal non‐compressive cervical strain elastography in a clinical setting.