Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Knowledge-driven feature component interpretable network for motor imagery classification

Objective. The end-to-end convolutional neural network (CNN) has achieved great success in motor imagery (MI) classification without a manual feature design. However, all the existing deep network solutions are purely datadriven and lack interpretability, which makes it impossible to discover insightful knowledge from the learned features, not to mention to design specific network structures. The heavy computational cost of CNN also makes it challenging for real-time application along with high classification performance. Approach. To address these problems, a novel knowledge-driven feature component interpretable network (KFCNet) is proposed, which combines spatial and temporal convolution in analogy to independent component analysis and a power spectrum pipeline. Prior frequency band knowledge of sensory-motor rhythms has been formulated as band-pass linear-phase digital finite impulse response filters to initialize the temporal convolution kernels to enable the knowledge-driven mechanism. To avoid signal distortion and achieve a linear phase and unimodality of filters, a symmetry loss is proposed, which is used in combination with the cross-entropy classification loss for training. Besides the general prior knowledge, subject-specific time-frequency property of event-related desynchronization and synchronization has been employed to construct and initialize the network with significantly fewer parameters. Main results. Comparison of experiments on two public datasets has been performed. Interpretable feature components could be observed in the trained model. The physically meaningful observation could efficiently assist the design of the network structure. Excellent classification performance on MI has been obtained. Significance. The performance of KFCNet is comparable to the state-of-the-art methods but with much fewer parameters and makes real-time applications possible.
Quantitative intracellular retention of delivered RNAs through optimized cell fixation and immunostaining

Detection of nucleic acids within subcellular compartments is key to understanding their function. Determining the intracellular distribution of nucleic acids requires quantitative retention and estimation of their association with different organelles by immunofluorescence microscopy. This is particularly important for the delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics, which depends on endocytic uptake and endosomal escape. However, the current protocols fail to preserve the majority of exogenously delivered nucleic acids in the cytoplasm. To solve this problem, by monitoring Cy5-labeled mRNA delivered to primary human adipocytes via lipid nanoparticles (LNP), we optimized cell fixation, permeabilization, and immunostaining of a number of organelle markers, achieving quantitative retention of mRNA and allowing visualization of levels that escape detection using conventional procedures. The optimized protocol proved effective on exogenously delivered siRNA, miRNA, as well as endogenous miRNA. Our protocol is compatible with RNA probes of single molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization (smFISH) and molecular beacon, thus demonstrating that it is broadly applicable to study a variety of nucleic acids in cultured cells.
7-Hydroxy questin, a new anthraquinone from a wetland fungus Aspergillus flavipes PJ03-11

Abstract One new anthraquinone, questinlin (1), four known anthraquinones (2–5), together with three known benzophenone derivatives (6–8) were isolated from a wetland fungus Aspergillus flavipes PJ03-11. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of detailed spectroscopic analysis, including 1D, 2D NMR (HMQC, HMBC), mass spectrometry, and optical rotation and IR spectra. In addition, the cytotoxic activities against three human cancer cell lines (HepG2, Caco-2 and A549) were evaluated. In this article, Aspergillus flavipes PJ03-11, a wetland soil fungus isolated from Honghaitan, Panjin city, Liaoning province, was used to study the secondary metabolites through one strain many compounds (OSMAC) methods. By changing the culture medium and adding the substance stimulating the metabolism of the strain into the fermentation medium, the peak type and amount of ethyl acetate extract in the fermentation medium were studied by HPLC. Finally, 2 mM MgCl2 was added into the rice solid medium for the expansion fermentation. Graphical Abstract
Using iPods & iPhones for Hands on Programs (HOPs) In Mechanical Engineering Laboratories

This paper presents a new laboratory experiment recently conducted at Dalhousie University where Apple iPod Touches and iPhones were used to provide Hands On Programs (HOPs). Both iPod Touches and iPhones contain accurate 3-axis accelerometers that can be used to take real measurement of vibrating systems. The Apple App Store contains a number of applications that utilize the built-in accelerometers. A basic free App was downloaded by the students. The department rapid prototyped a simple iPod / iPhone holder attached to a cantilevered vibrating beam and after a brief familiarization period the students collected the raw data and emailed themselves the results over the classroom Wi-Fi. The students then analyzed the data using an instructor-supplied spreadsheet. This lab allowed the students to be introduced to such concepts as: data collection, vibration of continuous systems, resonant frequencies, quality factor and damping, and finally data analysis.
A new tool to probe SARS-CoV-2 variants

Description Virus-like particles offer a new way to investigate genetic variation in SARS-CoV-2 Although efforts have been made to understand the biology of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a major focus has been on investigating genetic variation in the virus. However, progress is hampered by the need to perform experiments involving SARS-CoV-2 in biosafety level 3 (BSL3) laboratories, which require substantial training for safe operation. On page 1626 of this issue, Syed et al. (1) offer an alternative to using live virus, introducing a new SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particle (VLP) system. The authors innovate on previous VLP systems by incorporating a reporter construct to study infection (1, 2). Illustrating the system’s utility, they use VLPs to characterize mutations in SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern.
Genomic analyses of the metastasis‐derived prostate cancer cell lines LNCaP, VCaP, and PC3‐AR

The lymph node metastasis‐derived LNCaP, the bone metastasis‐derived PC3 (skull), and VCaP (vertebral) cell lines are widely used as preclinical models of human prostate cancer (CaP) and have been described in more than 19,000 publications. Here, we report on short‐read whole‐genome sequencing and genomic analyses of LNCaP, VCaP, and PC3 cells stably transduced with WT AR (PC3‐AR).
Nanostructured Lipid Carriers Can Enhance Oral Absorption of Khellin, a Natural Pleiotropic Molecule

A novel formulation based on nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) was developed to increase solubility and intestinal absorption of khellin. K-NLCs were prepared with stearic acid, hempseed oil, Brij S20, and Labrafil M 1944 CS, using the emulsification-ultrasonication method. Developed nanoparticles were chemically and physically characterized by liquid chromatography, light scattering techniques, and electron microscopy. The size, about 200 nm, was optimal for oral delivery, and the polydispersity index (around 0.26), indicated high sample homogeneity. Additionally, K-NLCs showed a spherical morphology without aggregation by microscopic analysis. The encapsulation efficiency of khellin was about 55%. In vitro release studies were carried out in media with different pH to mimic physiological conditions. K-NLCs were found to be physically stable in the simulated gastric and intestinal fluids, and they preserved about 70% of khellin after 6 h incubation. K-NLCs were also successfully lyophilized testing different lyoprotectants, and obtained freeze-dried K-NLCs demonstrated good shelf life over a month. Lastly, permeability studies on Caco-2 cells were performed to predict khellin passive diffusion across the intestinal epithelium, demonstrating that nanoparticles increased khellin permeability by more than two orders of magnitude. Accordingly, developed NLCs loaded with khellin represent a versatile formulation with good biopharmaceutical properties for oral administration, possibly enhancing khellin’s bioavailability and therapeutic effects.
Long-Term Potentiation of Mossy Fiber Feedforward Inhibition of CA3 Pyramidal Cells Maintains E/I Balance in Epilepsy Model

Abstract Insight into the cellular and circuit mechanisms underlying development of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) will provide a foundation for improved therapies. We studied a model in which an episode of prolonged seizures is followed by recovery lasting two weeks before emergence of spontaneous recurrent seizures. We focused on the interval between the prolonged seizures and the late onset recurrent seizures. We investigated the hippocampal mossy fiber CA3 pyramidal cell microcircuit in models spanning in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo preparations. Expression of channelrhodopsin-2 in the dentate granule cells of DGC ChR mice enabled the selective activation of mossy fiber axons. In vivo studies revealed marked potentiation of mossy fiber evoked field potentials in hippocampal CA3 beginning within hours following seizures, a potentiation which persisted at least 7 d. Stimulation of mossy fibers in hippocampal slices in vitro using patterns of activity mimicking seizures induced LTP not only of the monosynaptic EPSC but also of the disynaptic IPSC of CA3 pyramidal cells. Ex vivo studies of slices isolated following seizures revealed evidence of LTP of mossy fiber evoked EPSC and disynaptic IPSC of CA3 pyramidal cells. We suggest that activation of dentate granule cells during seizures induces these plasticities in vivo and the retained balance of synaptic excitation and inhibition limits excessive activation of CA3 pyramidal cells, thereby protecting animals from spontaneous recurrent seizures at this interval following status epilepticus.
Virtual Navigator Real-Time Ultrasound Fusion Imaging with Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography for Preoperative Breast Cancer

We used virtual navigator real-time ultrasound (US) fusion imaging with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) to identify a lesion that could not be detected on the US alone in a preoperative breast cancer patient. Of the patient’s two lesions of breast cancer, the calcified lesion could not be identified by US alone. By fusing US with 18F-FDG PET/CT, which had been performed in advance, the location of the lesion could be estimated and marked, which benefited planning an appropriate surgery. The fusion of US and 18F-FDG PET/CT was a simple and noninvasive method for identifying the lesions detected by 18F-FDG PET/CT.
Magnetorheological fluid devices: Principles, characteristics and applications in mechanical engineering

Abstract Magnetorheological (MR) fluids are a class of new intelligent materials whose rheological characteristics change rapidly and can be controlled easily in the presence of an applied magnetic field. The devices based on MR fluids, including dampers, brakes, clutches, polishing devices and hydraulic valves, etc., have a very promising potential future; some of them have been used commercially in engineering applications such as automobiles, polishing machines, exercise equipment, etc. In this paper, the modes of operation of MR fluid devices are analysed. A comprehensive review is then presented of the principles, characteristics and engineering applications of the MR fluid devices (especially dampers) studied in the last decade. Finally, the application prospects of MR fluid devices are discussed.
Light-emitting textile display with floats for electronics covering

Purpose – Flexible light-emitting textile display is designed with floats for electronic elements covering and electronic contacts insulation what at the same time provides an opportunity to develop aesthetic design of the display in the single piece construction of material. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach – Display consists of interwoven electrically conductive yarns, non-conductive yarns and SMD LEDs connected to conductive yarns. Industrial jacquard weaving machine have been used, weave patterns were designed in PC-Edit software. Findings – Weave can be used as a tool to build and evolve electrotextile. Exploring weaving techniques and perceiving electronic circuit as a weave pattern, new approaches can be developed in electrotextile design field. Research limitations/implications – Connections of electronic elements and conductive textile materials still is actual problem what should be explored in further research. Practical implications – Flexible light emitting .
Centering Lived Experience in Developing Digital Interventions for Suicide and Self-injurious Behaviors: User-Centered Design Approach

Background The prevalence of self-injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITB) signals a growing public health crisis. Despite a recognized need for improved and scalable interventions, the field of SITB intervention faces several challenges: existing interventions are often time and resource intensive, most individuals with SITB do not seek formal mental health care, and efficacious treatments are characterized by small effects. Combined, these challenges indicate a need for improved SITB interventions for individuals in formal treatment and those who are not treatment engaged but are at high risk of worsening mental health and future suicide attempts. Objective We present a methodological approach and set of techniques that may address these challenges by centering the lived experience of individuals with SITB in the process of developing needed services: user-centered design (UCD). Methods We highlight the value of UCD in the context of digital interventions for SITB by describing the UCD approach and explicating how it can be leveraged to include lived experience throughout the development and evaluation process. We provide a detailed case example highlighting 3 phases of the early development process that can be used to design an intervention that is engaging and meets end-user needs. In addition, we point to novel applications of UCD to complement new directions in SITB research. Results In this paper, we offer a 2-pronged approach to meet these challenges. First, in terms of addressing access to effective interventions, digital interventions hold promise to extend the reach of evidence-based treatments outside of brick-and-mortar health care settings. Second, to address challenges related to treatment targets and engagement, we propose involving individuals with lived experience in the design and research process. Conclusions UCD offers a well-developed and systematic process to center the unique needs, preferences, and perceived barriers of individuals with lived SITB experience in the development and evaluation of digital interventions.
Complex Genetic Interactions between Piwi and HP1a in the Repression of Transposable Elements and Tissue-Specific Genes in the Ovarian Germline

Insertions of transposable elements (TEs) in eukaryotic genomes are usually associated with repressive chromatin, which spreads to neighbouring genomic sequences. In ovaries of Drosophila melanogaster, the Piwi-piRNA pathway plays a key role in the transcriptional silencing of TEs considered to be exerted mostly through the establishment of H3K9me3 histone marks recruiting Heterochromatin Protein 1a (HP1a). Here, using RNA-seq, we investigated the expression of TEs and the adjacent genomic regions upon Piwi and HP1a germline knockdowns sharing a similar genetic background. We found that the depletion of Piwi and HP1a led to the derepression of only partially overlapping TE sets. Several TEs were silenced predominantly by HP1a, whereas the upregulation of some other TEs was more pronounced upon Piwi knockdown and, surprisingly, was diminished upon a Piwi/HP1a double-knockdown. We revealed that HP1a loss influenced the expression of thousands of protein-coding genes mostly not adjacent to TE insertions and, in particular, downregulated a putative transcriptional factor required for TE activation. Nevertheless, our results indicate that Piwi and HP1a cooperatively exert repressive effects on the transcription of euchromatic loci flanking the insertions of some Piwi-regulated TEs. We suggest that this mechanism controls the silencing of a small set of TE-adjacent tissue-specific genes, preventing their inappropriate expression in ovaries.
Acinetobacter baumannii: Virulence Strategies and Host Defense Mechanisms

Acinetobacter baumannii is a highly antibiotic-resistant bacterial pathogen known to cause severe life-threatening infections, including pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis. Recent emergence of this bacterium as a serious nosocomial pathogen has led to categorization of A. baumannii as a “high-priority” pathogen by the World Health Organization (WHO), for which research efforts are urgently required to develop therapeutic interventions. Some of the properties that make A. baumannii a serious pathogen include its capacity to tolerate high levels of stress and enhanced expression of efflux pumps that enable high degrees of antibiotic resistance. Virulence mechanisms employed by A. baumannii to establish successful infection and host responses elicited against A. baumannii to counter the infection are discussed in detail in this article.
Potential and limitations of modern equipment for real time control of urban wastewater systems

Real Time Control (RTC) has become an accepted technique for improving the performance of Urban Drainage Systems (UDS) due to its flexibility and sustainability. Numerous implementations of RTC have been reported during the last decades. At the same time, guideline documents and state-of-the-art reports have been published. Whereas the general aspects and challenges of planning and installation of RTC systems are well covered, there is a lack of information about the adequate equipment for RTC of UDS. After identifying and briefly discussing the basic components of RTC systems for UDS, this paper describes the specific components in detail. This comprises the introduction of available technologies for sensors, actuators, controllers and telemetry systems in the context of RTC and the discussion of their potential and limitations. Lessons learned from the field operational experiences and future trends and challenges are identified.
Solutions for CMOS current amplifiers with high-drive output stages

Design guidelines for CMOS current amplifiers with a high-drive capability are discussed in detail, paying special attention to the implementation of output stages with improved linearity performance. As a design example, two different current amplifiers were realized in a 1.2-/spl mu/m process and experimentally tested. Both circuits used a 5-V power supply and dissipated 5.5 and 4 mW, respectively. The open-loop gain was found to be 90 and 100 dB and the gain-bandwidth product was 8 and 10 MHz. The two amplifiers provide bipolar output currents as high as 15 and 7 mA, with a maximum total harmonic distortion of around -54 dB, using a quiescent current in the output branches of only 200 /spl mu/A.
How do we best synergize climate mitigation actions to co‐benefit biodiversity?

A multitude of actions to protect, sustainably manage and restore natural and modified ecosystems can have co‐benefits for both climate mitigation and biodiversity conservation. Reducing greenhouse emissions to limit warming to less than 1.5 or 2°C above preindustrial levels, as outlined in the Paris Agreement, can yield strong co‐benefits for land, freshwater and marine biodiversity and reduce amplifying climate feedbacks from ecosystem changes. Not all climate mitigation strategies are equally effective at producing biodiversity co‐benefits, some in fact are counterproductive. Moreover, social implications are often overlooked within the climate‐biodiversity nexus. Protecting biodiverse and carbon‐rich natural environments, ecological restoration of potentially biodiverse and carbon‐rich habitats, the deliberate creation of novel habitats, taking into consideration a locally adapted and meaningful (i.e. full consequences considered) mix of these measures, can result in the most robust win‐win solutions. These can be further enhanced by avoidance of narrow goals, taking long‐term views and minimizing further losses of intact ecosystems. In this review paper, we first discuss various climate mitigation actions that evidence demonstrates can negatively impact biodiversity, resulting in unseen and unintended negative consequences. We then examine climate mitigation actions that co‐deliver biodiversity and societal benefits. We give examples of these win‐win solutions, categorized as ‘protect, restore, manage and create’, in different regions of the world that could be expanded, upscaled and used for further innovation.
The lack of a clearly defined retention strategy and the impact of the retention of civil engineers

Developing retention strategies for retaining professional employees has the potential of providing large cost savings to an organization associated with employee turnover. However, determining the needs of select groups of professional employees can be difficult to determine in today’s markets. Through a quantitative fixed research design, this research used a survey to investigate the impact of a non-articulated retention strategy and the retention of civil engineering professionals. The responses from 361 participants indicated that there is statistical support that there is a root cause as to the low retention rate experienced by the organization. However, there does not appear to be a correlation between the root cause and the satisfaction of the civil engineers.
Bradyrhizobium japonicum IRAT FA3 alters Arabidopsis thaliana root architecture via regulation of auxin efflux transporters PIN2, PIN3, PIN7 and ABCB19.

Beneficial rhizobacteria can stimulate changes in plant root development. While root system growth is mediated by multiple factors, the regulated distribution of the phytohormone auxin within root tissues plays a principal role. Auxin transport facilitators help to generate the auxin gradients and maxima that determine root structure. Here, we show that the plant growth-promoting rhizobacterial strain Bradyrhizobium japonicum IRAT FA3 influences specific auxin efflux transporters to alter Arabidopsis thaliana root morphology. Gene expression profiling of host transcripts in control and B. japonicum-inoculated roots of the wild type A. thaliana accession Col-0 confirmed upregulation of PIN2, PIN3, PIN7 and ABCB19 with B. japonicum and identified genes potentially contributing to a diverse array of auxin-related responses. Co-cultivation of the bacterium with loss-of-function auxin efflux transport mutants revealed that B. japonicum requires PIN3, PIN7 and ABCB19 to increase lateral root development and utilizes PIN2 to reduce primary root length. Accelerated lateral root primordia production due to B. japonicum was not observed in single pin3, pin7 or abcb19 mutants, suggesting independent roles for PIN3, PIN7 and ABCB19 during the plant-microbe interaction. Our work demonstrates B. japonicum's influence over host transcriptional reprogramming during plant interaction with this beneficial microbe and the subsequent alterations to root system architecture.