Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Recurrent Variational Network: A Deep Learning Inverse Problem Solver applied to the task of Accelerated MRI Reconstruction

Magnetic Resonance Imaging can produce detailed images of the anatomy and physiology of the human body that can assist doctors in diagnosing and treating pathologies such as tumours. However, MRI suffers from very long acquisition times that make it susceptible to patient motion artifacts and limit its potential to deliver dynamic treatments. Conventional approaches such as Parallel Imaging and Compressed Sensing allow for an increase in MRI acquisition speed by reconstructing MR images from sub-sampled MRI data acquired using multiple receiver coils. Recent advancements in Deep Learning combined with Parallel Imaging and Compressed Sensing techniques have the potential to produce high-fidelity reconstructions from highly accelerated MRI data. In this work we present a novel Deep Learning-based Inverse Problem solver applied to the task of Accelerated MRI Reconstruction, called the Recurrent Variational Network (RecurrentVarNet), by exploiting the properties of Convolutional Recurrent Neural Networks and unrolled algorithms for solving Inverse Problems. The RecurrentVarNet consists of multiple recurrent blocks, each responsible for one iteration of the unrolled variational optimization scheme for solving the inverse problem of multi-coil Accelerated MRI Reconstruction. Contrary to traditional approaches, the optimization steps are performed in the observation domain (k-space) instead of the image domain. Each block of the RecurrentVarNet refines the observed k-space and comprises a data consistency term and a recurrent unit which takes as input a learned hidden state and the prediction of the previous block. Our proposed method achieves new state of the art qualitative and quantitative reconstruction results on 5-fold and 10-fold accelerated data from a public multi-coil brain dataset, outperforming previous conventional and deep learning-based approaches. Our code is publicly available at https://github.com/NKI-AI/direct.
Effects of Parkinson Disease on Blur-Driven and Disparity-Driven Vergence Eye Movements

Abstract: Synchronous movements of the 2 eyes in the opposite direction, disconjugate movements such as vergence, facilitate depth perception. The vergence eye movements are affected in Parkinson disease (PD). Visual blur (accommodation) and fusion (retinal disparity) are important triggers for the vergence. The neural circuit responsible for blur-driven and disparity-driven vergence is tightly coupled. We investigated the effect of PD on these 2 vergence paradigms. In the experiment involving 14 patients with PD and 6 healthy controls, substantial differences between blur-driven and disparity-driven vergence were found. The gain (ratio of actual vs desired eye movements) was reduced in patients with PD in case of disparity-driven vergence but not in blur-driven vergence. The latency of disparity-driven vergence onset was significantly longer for patients with PD compared with healthy controls. Four strategies were used to drive disparity-driven vergence: a) pure disconjugate vergence, b) conjugate saccadic movements, c) disconjugate vergence followed by saccadic movements, and d) conjugate saccades followed by disconjugate vergence movements. Blur-driven vergence had only 2 strategies: a) conjugate saccades followed by disconjugate vergence and b) conjugate saccadic movements only. The results are consistent with the prediction that PD primarily affects disparity-driven vergence, but there are some effects on the strategies to execute blur-driven vergence. We speculate that the deep cerebellar nuclei and the supraoculomotor area of the midbrain that carry the disparity-driven and blur-driven vergence are affected in PD. It is possible to modulate their function through projections to the subthalamic nuclei.
What is the current value of beta-adrenoreceptor antagonists for angina?

Ischemic heart disease is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide [1]. Management of patients with stable ischemic heart disease involves risk modification, anti-platelet therapy, antianginal pharmacotherapy, and selective coronary revascularization for refractory angina despite maximal medical therapy. Clinical trials comparing revascularization and medical therapy showed that revascularization does not provide a survival benefit or improve exercise tolerance in patients with stable angina. Guidelines recommend beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and nitrates as the first-line anti-anginal agents. Ranolazine is used as a second-line agent in patients unable to tolerate first-line antianginal agents due to side effects or as a combination therapy with first-line agents in patients with residual angina. Ivabradine, nicorandil, and trimetazidine are other newer drugs that are being studied for angina. Although current guidelines recommend a hierarchical approach to the treatment of angina, there is no evidence for the superiority of one anti-anginal agent over the others. Beta-adrenoreceptor blockers have been used for chronic coronary artery disease since the 1960s. Beta-blockers significantly reduce mortality in patients with recent myocardial infarction and left ventricular dysfunction, while there is limited evidence to support such a mortality benefit in stable ischemic heart disease with normal ejection fraction. This editorial inspects the evidence behind the current use and future of beta-blockers for the treatment of angina.
Strategic groups and firm performance: the case of Spanish house-building firms

A central theme in strategic management is the theoretical relationship between strategic groups and firm performance. However, the empirical evidence is conflicting. The aim of this research is to study this linkage by examining business strategies in the Spanish construction industry. This paper defines several groups based on Porter's generic strategies of 88 house-building firms, and studies performance differences between groups. The empirical findings demonstrate that significant differences in performance do not exist among groups. Implications of this research for Porter's generic strategies in construction are then discussed.
Error analysis of first time to a threshold value for partial differential equations

We develop an a posteriori error analysis for a novel quantity of interest (QoI) evolutionary partial differential equations (PDEs). Specifically, the QoI is the first time at which a functional of the solution to the PDE achieves a threshold value signifying a particular event, and differs from classical QoIs which are modeled as bounded linear functionals. We use Taylor’s theorem and adjoint based analysis to derive computable and accurate error estimates for linear parabolic and hyperbolic PDEs. Specifically, the heat equation and linearized shallow water equations (SWE) are used for the parabolic and hyperbolic cases, respectively. Numerical examples illustrate the accuracy of the error estimates.
Cycle ergometer training and resistance training similarly increase muscle strength in trained men

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to compare two different maximal intensity exercise modality training protocols of similar durations on muscle strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and lower limb composition in recreationally trained men. Twenty-five trained men (28.9 ± 5.6 years) were randomly divided into Cycle ergometer (4 sets of 30 seconds sprints) and Leg press (4 sets of 10–12 repetitions to momentary failure). Both groups trained three times a week for 5 weeks. Before and after the training period, the participants performed a 10-repetition maximum (10RM) test for knee extension, an incremental exercise test on a treadmill for time to exhaustion (TTE) and peak oxygen consumption ( 2peak) and underwent dual energy X-ray absorptiometry to assess lower limb composition. Knee extension 10RM and TTE increased in both groups with no statistically significant between group (p = 0.614 and p = 0.210). Only cycle ergometer group increased 2peak (p = 0,012). For all lower limb composition outcomes, changes were minimal. The results suggest that 5 weeks of effort and duration matched exercise protocols using cycle ergometer training or leg press may produce similar strength adaptations.
Efficiency of the Electronic License Plate Recognition Systems

The precise recognition of the vehicle determines the efficiency of intelligent transportation systems. Intelligent transportation systems become more effective if it can identify the vehicle. Electronic license plate recognition systems used to solve this problem. Proposed electronic license plate recognition systems model adapted for simple internet protocol video surveillance cameras. An analysis of the internet protocol video surveillance camera‘s processors, operating principle and software created guidelines for the algorithm. According to performance of the internet protocol video surveillance camera formed four efficiency criteria for license plate recognition algorithms. It's performed the experiment with four algorithms to search for a license number plate by different attributes of the license number. The most efficient algorithm was selected by criteria from experimental results. The algorithm is further analyzed and proposed the application model of the internet protocol video surveillance camera. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.5755/j01.eee. 19.8. 5396
Synthesis of cross-coupled resonator filters using an analytical gradient-based optimization technique

We propose a general approach to the synthesis of cross-coupled resonator filters using an analytical gradient-based optimization technique. The gradient of the cost function with respect to changes in the coupling elements between the resonators is determined analytically. The topology of the structure is strictly enforced at each step in the optimization thereby eliminating the need for similarity transformations of the coupling matrix. For the calculation of group delays, a simple formula is presented in terms of the coupling matrix. A simple recursion relation for the computation of the generalized Chebychev filtering functions is derived. Numerical results demonstrating the excellent performance of the approach are presented.
Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow in a Square Duct With 12 Different Shaped Vortex Generators

Detailed local Nusselt number distributions, streamwise mean flow patterns and cross-sectional secondary flow patterns, and friction factors in the first pass of a sharp turn two-pass square channel with various configurations of longitudinal vortex generator arranged on one wall were measured using transient liquid crystal thermography, laser-Doppler velocimetry, and pressure transducer probing, respectively. The Reynolds number, based on channel hydraulic diameter and bulk mean velocity, was fixed at 1.2 × 104. The vortex generator height-to-hydraulic diameter ratio and pitch-to-height ratio were 0.12 and 10, respectively. Comparisons in terms of heat transfer augmentation and uniformity and friction loss are first performed on 12 configurations of longitudinal vortex generator. The fluid dynamic mechanisms and wall confinement relevant to heat transfer enhancement are then documented for three-selected vortex generator models. In addition, the differences in fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics between a single vortex generator and a vortex generator array are addressed for the delta wing 1 U and 45° V U models which provide better thermal performance. The direction and strength of the secondary flow with respect to the heat transfer wall are found to be the most important fluid dynamic factors affecting the heat transfer promotion through the channel wall, followed by the convective mean velocity, and then the turbulent kinetic energy. Furthermore, the effects of the two-dimensional heat conduction near the vortex generator edge and unseen heat transfer areas on the Nusselt number estimation are documented in detail.Copyright © 1999 by ASME
Punyo-1: Soft tactile-sensing upper-body robot for large object manipulation and physical human interaction

The manipulation of large objects and safe operation in the vicinity of humans are key capabilities of a general purpose domestic robotic assistant. We present the design of a soft, tactile-sensing humanoid upper-body robot and demonstrate whole-body rich-contact manipulation strategies for handling large objects. We demonstrate our hardware design philosophy for outfitting off-the-shelf hard robot arms and other components with soft tactile-sensing modules, including: (i) low-cost, cut-resistant, contact pressure localizing coverings for the arms, (ii) paws based on TRI's Soft-bubble sensors for the end effectors, and (iii) compliant force/geometry sensors for the coarse geometry sensing chest. We leverage the mechanical intelligence and tactile sensing of these modules to develop and demonstrate motion primitives for whole-body grasping. We evaluate the hardware's effectiveness in achieving grasps of varying strengths over a variety of large domestic objects. Our results demonstrate the importance of exploiting softness and tactile sensing in contact-rich manipulation strategies, as well as a path forward for whole-body force-controlled interactions with the world. https://youtu.be/G8ZYgPRV5LY
Lactobacillus casei reduces the extracellular matrix components of fluconazole-susceptible Candida albicans biofilms

Abstract Fluconazole-sensitive (CaS) and -resistant (CaR) C. albicans were grown as single-species and dual-species biofilms with Lactobacillus casei (Lc) and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (Lr). Single-species Lc and Lr were also evaluated. Biofilm analysis included viable plate counts, the extracellular matrix components, biomass, and structural organization. Lc reduced the viability of CaS, water-soluble polysaccharides, and eDNA in CaS + Lc biofilm. Lc biofilm presented more eDNA than CaS. The total biomass of CaS + Lc biofilm was higher than the single-species biofilms. The viability of Lc and Lr was reduced by CaR dual-species biofilms. The total and insoluble biomass in CaS + Lr was higher than in single-species CaS biofilms. Lc hindered the growth of CaS, and their association hampered matrix components linked to the structural integrity of the biofilm. These findings allow understanding of how the implementation of probiotics influences the growth of C. albicans biofilms and thereby helps with the development of novel approaches to control these biofilms.
Calcineurin Regulates Synaptic Plasticity and Nociceptive Transmission at the Spinal Cord Level

Calcineurin, the predominant Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent serine/threonine protein phosphatase (also known as protein phosphatase 2B), is highly expressed in immune T cells and the nervous system, including the dorsal root ganglion and spinal cord. It controls synaptic transmission and plasticity by maintaining the appropriate phosphorylation status of many ion channels present at presynaptic and postsynaptic sites. As such, normal calcineurin activity in neurons and synapses is mainly involved in negative feedback regulation in response to increased neuronal activity and intracellular Ca2+ levels. Calcineurin inhibitors (e.g., cyclosporine and tacrolimus) are widely used as immunosuppressants in tissue and organ transplantation recipients and for treating autoimmune diseases but can cause severe pain in some patients. Furthermore, diminished calcineurin activity at the spinal cord level may play a major role in the transition from acute to chronic neuropathic pain after nerve injury. Restoring calcineurin activity at the spinal cord level produces long-lasting pain relief in animal models of neuropathic pain. In this article, we provide an overview of recent studies on the critical roles of calcineurin in regulating glutamate NMDA and AMPA receptors, voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, potassium channels, and transient receptor potential channels expressed in the spinal dorsal horn and primary sensory neurons.
Model-based geostatistics enables more precise estimates of neglected tropical-disease prevalence in elimination settings: mapping trachoma prevalence in Ethiopia

Abstract Background As the prevalences of neglected tropical diseases reduce to low levels in some countries, policymakers require precise disease estimates to decide whether the set public health targets have been met. At low prevalence levels, traditional statistical methods produce imprecise estimates. More modern geospatial statistical methods can deliver the required level of precision for accurate decision-making. Methods Using spatially referenced data from 3567 cluster locations in Ethiopia in the years 2017, 2018 and 2019, we developed a geostatistical model to estimate the prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis and to calculate the probability that the trachomatous trichiasis component of the elimination of trachoma as a public health problem has already been achieved for each of 482 evaluation units. We also compared the precision of traditional and geostatistical approaches by the ratios of the lengths of their 95% predictive intervals. Results The elimination threshold of trachomatous trichiasis (prevalence ≤ 0.2% in individuals aged ≥15 years) is met with a probability of 0.9 or more in 8 out of the 482 evaluation units assessed, and with a probability of ≤0.1 in 469 evaluation units. For the remaining five evaluation units, the probability of elimination is between 0.45 and 0.65. Prevalence estimates were, on average, 10 times more precise than estimates obtained using the traditional approach. Conclusions By accounting for and exploiting spatial correlation in the prevalence data, we achieved remarkably improved precision of prevalence estimates compared with the traditional approach. The geostatistical approach also delivers predictions for unsampled evaluation units that are geographically close to sampled evaluation units.
Sex differences in the coronary vascular response to combined chemoreflex and metaboreflex stimulation in healthy humans

What is the central question of this study? Coronary blood flow in healthy humans is controlled by both local metabolic signalling and adrenergic activity: does the integration of these signals during acute hypoxia and adrenergic activation differ between sexes? What are the main findings and its importance? Both males and females exhibit an increase in coronary blood velocity in response to acute hypoxia, a response that is constrained by adrenergic stimulation in males but not females. These findings suggest that coronary blood flow control differs between males and females.
The Emergence of the Spike Furin Cleavage Site in SARS-CoV-2

Abstract Compared with other SARS-related coronaviruses (SARSr-CoVs), SARS-CoV-2 possesses a unique furin cleavage site (FCS) in its spike. This has stimulated discussion pertaining to the origin of SARS-CoV-2 because the FCS has been observed to be under strong selective pressure in humans and confers the enhanced ability to infect some cell types and induce cell–cell fusion. Furthermore, scientists have demonstrated interest in studying novel cleavage sites by introducing them into SARSr-CoVs. We review what is known about the SARS-CoV-2 FCS in the context of its pathogenesis, origin, and how future wildlife coronavirus sampling may alter the interpretation of existing data.
The Incidence, Prevalence, and Associated Costs of Anemia, Malignancy, Venous Thromboembolism, Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events, and Infections in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients by Treatment History in the United States

Comorbidities in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can influence treatment selection, impact treatment persistency, and increase health care costs. This study assessed the magnitude of comorbidity burden via epidemiology (incidence and prevalence) and associated costs of select comorbidities in RA patients: anemia, malignancy, venous thromboembolism (VTE), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and infections, stratified by history of disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) exposure.
Defining difficult intravenous access (DIVA): A systematic review

Background: The term “difficult intravenous access” (DIVA) is commonly used but not clearly defined. Repeated attempts at peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) insertion can be a traumatic experience for patients, leading to sub-optimal clinical and economic outcomes. We conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) to collate literature definitions of DIVA, with the aim of arriving at an evidence-driven definition. Methods: The SLR was designed to identify clinical, cost, and quality of life publications in patients requiring the insertion of a PIVC in any setting, including studies on US-guidance and/or guidewire, and studies with no specific intervention. The search was restricted to English language studies published between 1st January 2010 and 30th July 2020, and the Ovid platform was used to search several electronic databases, in addition to hand searching of clinical trial registries. Results: About 121 studies were included in the SLR, of which 64 reported on the objectives relevant to this manuscript. Prevalence estimates varied widely from 6% to 87.7% across 19 publications, reflecting differences in definitions used. Of 43 publications which provided a definition of DIVA, six key themes emerged. Of these, themes 1–3 (failed attempts at PIV access using traditional technique; based on physical examination findings for example no visible or palpable veins; and personal history of DIVA) were covered by all but one publication. Following a failed insertion attempt, the most common number of subsequent attempts was 3, and it was frequently reported that a more experienced clinician would attempt to gain access after multiple failed attempts. Conclusions: Considering the themes identified, an evidence-driven definition of DIVA is proposed: “when a clinician has two or more failed attempts at PIV access using traditional techniques, physical examination findings are suggestive of DIVA (e.g. no visible or palpable veins) or the patient has a stated or documented history of DIVA. ”
Unified Framework and Performance Analysis of Transaction Adjustment Models in Congestion Management of Power System

This framework can not only include all kinds of existing transaction adjustment models in the Pool, bilateral/ multilateral and Pool+bilateral/ multilateral trade modes, but also establish new transaction adjustment models by setting different parameters. A comprehensive model frame-work for investigating the congestion relief problem was provided. Then, based on the unified framework, three performance indexes, i.e., the market benefit, the effect of manipulation and the choice degree of participants are presented to compare the transaction adjustment models. The existing transaction adjustment models are evaluated, and the comparison results show that the transaction adjustment models in the Pool+bilateral/multilateral trade mode are superior to those of Pool or bilateral/multilateral trade mode as a whole.