SIRIS-Lab/unlabelled-sti-corpus huggingface dataset:
Do maths outcomes reflect expertise linked to effective strategy selection? event related brain potentials and eye movement studies in children and adults

Excellence in Science, Technology and Engineering (STEM) subjects are crucial to the development and wellbeing of both societies and individuals. Mathematics lies at the heart of all STEM subjects. Contrary to its importance, to date not much is known about advanced levels of mathematical development. This project aims to remedy this situation by providing an innovative study investigating strategies that both children and adults use to solve arithmetical problems and integrating competences derived from psychological and mathematical educational domains. Consequently, the outcomes of this research can easily be drawn into concrete implications: effective teaching of maths strategies, applicable both in the educational and in the clinical field, will not only help children and adults struggling with maths but will also facilitate the learning of maths among average or even excellent students.
Specifically, the MORE-or-LESS project aims to analyse: the strategies used by both children and adults to solve complex mental addition and subtraction problems; the effects of problem features, such as the complexity of the operation (i.e., number of digits), or the presence/absence of carry/borrow procedures, and the type of representation (i.e., Arabic digits, number words, dot patterns); the specific role of working memory in mental calculation; and the psycho-physiological data related to arithmetical processing. The project fills an important gap because, so far, most research exploring the relationship between strategy selection, cognitive processes and mental arithmetic has focused on adults’ simple calculation.
The project is highly innovative as it integrates different experimental methods: both behavioural and psycho-physiological data will be collected. Through this project the candidate will be trained in the application and analysis of eye movement tracking and event-related brain potential techniques both of which will equip her with new skills and knowledge.
Camouflaging electronics in the brain with immobilized liquid coatings

In the UK alone, those suffering from brain disorders is approximately 45 million and associated healthcare costs exceed 130 billion euros per year. Neural electronics for recording and stimulating brain activity have become invaluable tools to study and treat disorders such as epilepsy, depression, and Parkinson’s. Currently used neural probes often fail in chronic evaluations (>1 year); the stiffness and chemistry of probes induce inflammation, neuronal death, and fibrous capsule formation. When examining a neural probe, the vast majority of the surface area is comprised of the encapsulation material; an insulating polymer that shields electronics from tissue. To date, most studies of implantable electronics have utilized only bare insulation as the tissue-interfacing material, yet in long-term studies, these insulation materials degrade and crack from the in vivo environment and expose the underlying electronics. Furthermore, adherence of proteins and cells to insulation promotes the immune response against the probe. Therefore, introducing an effective barrier between insulation and tissue is a highly promising approach for improving probe biocompatibility and performance. In this proposal, the approach is to use water-immiscible liquids anchored to the surface by a gel to shield neural probes from surrounding tissue. The proposed strategy of these immobilized liquid coatings (ILCs) is applicable to all implantable electronics, including those for other tissues and those based on various materials (silicon, metal, and organics). This proposal will focus solely on organic probes, which can be flexible and have recently been shown to improve biocompatibility by the reducing the mechanical mismatch between probe and brain tissue. Therefore, applying ILCs to organic neural probes will advance the current state-of-the-art and will address chronic biocompatibility on multiple fronts.
Merlin and the Lost King of England: A Legend from Britain

Merlin and the Lost King of England is a humorous retelling of the legend of King Arthur and the magical test of the sword in the stone. Captivating versions of some of the best myths and legends from around the world. TreeTops Myths and Legends are fascinating and action-packed stories that will motivate and inspire junior readers. These are some of the oldest and most enduring stories in the world, retold by leading contemporary children's authors to bring out all of the action, drama, humour and depth of the original stories in a way that makes them as exciting and meaningful today as ever. The stories are beautifully illustrated in a range of styles to bring each tale to life. Books contain inside cover notes to support children in their reading. Help with children's reading development also available at www.oxfordowl.co.uk. The books are finely levelled, making it easy to match every child to the right book.
Social Policy

Policymakers and researchers are increasingly interested in using experimental methods to inform the design of social policy. The most common approach, at least in developed countries, is to carry out large-scale randomized trials of the policies of interest, or what we call here policy evaluations. In this chapter, we argue that in some circumstances the best way to generate information about the policy of interest may be to test an intervention that is different from the policy being considered, but which can shed light on one or more key mechanisms through which that policy may operate. What we call mechanism experiments can help address the key external validity challenge that confronts all policy-oriented work in two ways. First, mechanism experiments sometimes generate more policy-relevant information per dollar of research funding than can policy evaluations, which in turn makes it more feasible to test how interventions work in different contexts. Second, mechanism experiments can also help improve our ability to forecast effects by learning more about the way in which local context moderates policy effects, or expand the set of policies for which we can forecast effects. We discuss how mechanism experiments and policy evaluations can complement one another, and provide examples from a range of social policy areas including health insurance, education, labor market policy, savings and retirement, housing, criminal justice, redistribution, and tax policy. Examples focus on the US context.
Mutations in two PKR-binding domains in chronic hepatitis C of genotype 3a and correlation with viral loads and interferon responsiveness

Interferon (IFN) induces the double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR) to inhibit viral replication. Two motifs of the PKR-binding domain exist in the E2 and the NS5A regions of the hepatitis C virus (HCV). These regions are called the PKR-eukaryotic transcription factor (elF2-alpha) phosphorylation homology domain (PePHD), and the IFN sensitivity-determining region (ISDR). Both regions are inhibited by PKR. Thus, several studies have reported the relationship between these regions and IFN responsiveness and the HCV viral load. However, the data obtained from these studies remain controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the genomic heterogeneity of the PePHD and the ISDR in patients with genotype 3a and how this impacts HCV replication and the response to IFN therapy. Twenty-one male patients infected with HCV genotype 3a were studied. The PePHD was well conserved, and mutations were found in only one amino acid position in two patients. Patients with three or more mutations in the ISDR had lower viral loads than those with fewer than two mutations (192.2 ± 176.7 vs. 1279.4 ± 997.6 KIU/ml, P = 0.0277). Ten (71.4%) of 14 patients achieved a sustained virological response to IFN therapy. No specific amino acid substitutions in the PePHD and the ISDR were associated with IFN responsiveness; however, the number of mutations in the ISDR was significantly associated with the HCV viral load. The findings from this study suggest that the ISDR plays an important role in regulating viral replication in patients infected with HCV genotype 3a.
Pre-equilibrium neutron-emission spectra of 238U with an effective nucleon–nucleon interactions

Abstract In this study, the initial exciton numbers for the target nucleus 238U were calculated through a new method offered by Tel et al. (Ann. Nucl. Energy, 35, 220, 2008). Neutron-emission spectra produced by (n,xn) reactions on 238U nuclei have been calculated by using Hartree–Fock method with effective nucleon–nucleon Skyrme interactions with SKM∗ parameters. Pre-equilibrium nuclear reactions have been used to investigate the effect of initial exciton numbers on the nucleon emission spectra. Calculations have been made in the framework of the hybrid, equilibrium and GDH models using ALICE/ASH computer code. The initial exciton numbers calculated with the theoretical neutron and proton densities have been obtained with SKM∗ for the 238U(n,xn) reaction at 14.0 and 18.0 MeV incident neutron energies. We also compared the geometry-dependent hybrid model (GDH), newly evaluated with the initial exciton number calculations of the neutron emission spectra of the 238U(n,xn) reaction. The obtained results are discussed and compared with the available experimental data and are shown to be in agreement with each other. All calculated results have been compared with experimental data from Experimental Nuclear Reaction Data (EXFOR).
PROTECTIVE DEVICE FOR AN ELEMENT TO BE SECURED

The invention relates to a protective device (1) for an element (3) to be secured, the protective device (1) comprising a cage (2) forming a frame intended to bear on a support (4) framing the element (3) to be secured, the cage (2) comprising fixing and/or anchoring means (25) ensuring its attachment to the support (4) during use, the protective device (1) comprising, within the cage (2), at least one first shut-off means intended to shut off the element (3) to be secured, and security systems (12-18) capable of triggering in the event of infringement on the first shut-off means, the first shut-off means being reinforced with a plurality of different materials (24a, 24b).
OPTIONS TO PROVIDE A NETWORK ICON IN NON-STANDALONE MODE

Wireless communications systems and methods related to providing an indication that a user equipment (UE) is within coverage by a particular network are provided. An example method of wireless communications obtaining, by a first wireless communication device from a second device associated with a second network, information regarding whether the first wireless communication device is within coverage by a first network. The first wireless communication device supports dual connectivity with the first network and the second network. The method also includes determining, based at least in part on the information, whether to display an icon indicating that the first wireless communication device is connected to the first network. The method further includes in response to a determination to display the icon, displaying, by the first wireless communication device, the icon on a display coupled to the first wireless communication device.
Arrhythmogenic Remodeling in Murine Models of Deoxycorticosterone Acetate-Salt-Induced and 5/6-Subtotal Nephrectomy-Salt-Induced Cardiorenal Disease

Renal failure is associated with adverse cardiac remodeling and sudden cardiac death. The mechanism leading to enhanced arrhythmogenicity in the cardiorenal syndrome is unclear. The aim of this study was to characterize electrophysiological and tissue alterations correlated with enhanced arrhythmogenicity in two distinct mouse models of renal failure.Thirty-week-old 129Sv mice received a high-salt diet and deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) for 8 weeks, followed by an additional period of high-salt diet for 27 weeks (DOCA-salt aged model). Adult CD-1 mice were submitted to 5/6-subtotal nephrectomy (SNx) and treated for 11 weeks with a high-salt diet (SNx-salt adult model). Vulnerability to arrhythmia as well as conduction velocities (CVs) of the hearts were determined ex vivo with epicardial mapping. Subsequently, the hearts were characterized for connexin 43 (Cx43) and fibrosis.DOCA-salt and SNx-salt mice developed renal dysfunction characterized by albuminuria. Heart, lung and kidney weights were increased in DOCA-salt mice. Both DOCA-salt and SNx-salt mice were highly susceptible to ventricular arrhythmias. DOCA-salt mice had a significant decrease in both longitudinal and transversal CV in the left ventricle. Histological analysis revealed a significant reduction in Cx43 expression as well as an increase in interstitial fibrosis in both DOCA-salt and SNx-salt mice.DOCA-salt and SNx-salt treatment induced renal dysfunction, which resulted in structural and electrical cardiac remodeling and enhanced arrhythmogenicity. The reduced Cx43 expression and increased fibrosis levels in these hearts are likely candidates for the formation of the arrhythmogenic substrate.
The differing efficiency experiences of banks leading up to the global financial crisis: A comparative empirical analysis from Australia, Canada and the UK

This paper employs a mixed two-stage approach to estimate and explain differences in the cross-country efficiency of ten Australian, five UK and eight Canadian banks over the period 1988 to 2008 using stochastic distance, cost and profit frontiers. The first stage estimates efficiency scores for banks using a common frontier including uncontrollable environmental factors such as per capita national income, bank concentration, capital adequacy, deposit density and the average profit margin. The second stage investigates how controllable firm-specific factors help explain the differences in efficiency. In line with the experience of the banking sector during the recent global financial crisis, the evidence indicates that Australian banks exhibited superior efficiency. Key factors found to positively affect efficiency include intangible assets and the loans-to-deposits and loans-to-assets ratios. Key factors found to negatively affect efficiency include bank size, loan loss provisions, and financial leverage.
Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy Utilizing a Stapled Side-to-Side Anastomosis is Safe in the Western Patient Population

There has been an increased utilization of minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) in an effort to reduce morbidity, decrease length of stay, and improve quality of life. However, there are limited large series of patients undergoing MIE from the United States and no standardized approach. We reviewed our experience with MIE utilizing a stapled side-to-side anastomosis during a 7.5-year period.A retrospective review of prospectively maintained databases for patients undergoing planned esophagectomy were reviewed from 2007 to 2015. Esophagogastric anastomoses were performed via a 6-cm linear stapled side-to-side method. Demographics, comorbidities, surgical approach, pathology data, and postoperative morbidities were recorded and reviewed.A MIE was attempted in 303 of 315 (96 %) patients, and a total minimally invasive approach was completed in 293 of 315 (93 %) patients. Location of anastomosis was predominantly in the neck, with 244 patients (77.5 %) undergoing a total minimally invasive McKeown approach (n = 231). A total, minimally invasive Ivor-Lewis was completed in 60 patients (19.1 %). Anastomotic leak was identified in 24 patients (7.6 %). Rates of anastomotic leak were 4.4 % for Ivor-Lewis and 8.5 % for McKeown resection. Median length of stay was 8 days, and in-hospital mortality occurred in only three patients (n = 1 %). Ninety-day follow-up demonstrated a 4.1 % stricture rate requiring dilatation.In the Western patient population, MIE utilizing a 6-cm stapled side-to-side anastomosis is associated with low rates of anastomotic leak, stricture, and mortality.
Prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus and staphylococcal enterotoxins at different stages of production of raw milk cheeses - preliminary results

Abstract The aim of the study was to identify the potential sources of contamination of traditionally made cheeses during their production with Staphylococcus aureus . The samples were collected at nine dairy farms at different points of manufacturing the cheeses. Isolation and enumeration of coagulase positive staphylococci (CPS) on Baird- Parker RPF agar was conducted, and detection of staphylococcal enterotoxins (SEs) was performed using ELISA and ELFA. The genes encoding SEs were identified by PCR. CPS were isolated from 51 samples with the highest level of contamination in mature cheese up to 10 7 CFU g -1 . No SEs were detected in tested samples; however, enterotoxic CPS strains were found.
Economic Policy without Politics

Commentators on market-oriented policy reform, e.g. John Williamson and Naomi Klein, have observed that radical policy change is often enacted in the wake of a “crisis” which is perceived to necessitate and justify the change. In section 2, I critically examine Williamson’s work and his analysis of the enabling conditions of policy changes based on the “Washington Consensus.” I also consider Klein’s work, and use, as a case study, the economic reforms in Chile in the 1970s. Whilst Williamson and Klein provide insights into the introduction of policy change, they do not offer plausible accounts of its persistence after a crisis has passed. Drawing on insights from behavioral economics, an explanation of persistence is offered (section 3). In section 4, the notion of “politics” contained in the work of proponents of market-oriented policy reform is scrutinized. I conclude with remarks on strategies for resisting market-oriented policy change.
METHOD FOR PRODUCING AN ELONGATED HOLLOW BODY CONSISTING OF STEEL AND HAVING A POLYGONAL, IN PARTICULAR SQUARE OR RECTANGULAR, CROSS-SECTION

The invention relates to a method for producing an elongate hollow body consisting of steel and having a polygonal cross-section, comprising the following steps: producing an intermediate hollow body having a round cross-sectionfrom a flat pre-materialor from a block-shaped pre-material,whereby the intermediate hollow body is cooled or quenched with partial or full phase transformation,testing the intermediate hollow body in a non- destructive manner, final-shaping without intended reduction of the wall thickness of the intermediate hollow body to form a final hollow body having a polygonal, in particular square or rectangular, cross-section, final-heat treating the intermediate hollow body immediately prior to the final-shaping or final-heat treatment and final-shaping the intermediate hollow body in a common step. This method can be used to produce hollow bodies having increased dimensional stability, in particular narrow dimension tolerances. The hollow bodies are heat-treated and tested in a non-destructive manner.
Pathophysiology of platelet-derived interleukin 1

The Interleukin (IL)-1 family of pro-inflammatory cytokines are among the most potent pyrogens, and their excessive production can cause several auto-inflammatory syndromes. Additionally, overabundance of IL-1 cytokines can trigger, or contribute to a range of inflammatory and metabolic disorders. The expression of the key members of the IL-1 family, such as IL-1β and IL-18, is regulated at both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. IL-1β and IL-18, are produced as inactive precursors, which require activation of caspase-1 by the inflammasomes for their maturation and release by from cells, occasionally at the cost of caspase-1 mediated-cell death. We have recently discovered that inflammasomes are released into the extracellular space where they remain active after the demise of activated cells, and that extracellular inflammasomes can amplify inflammation by sustaining extracellular production of IL-1β. However, the sources of extracellular pro-IL-1β are not known. Recent advances in platelet proteomics have revealed that these non-nucleated cells are able to produce their own cytokines, including soluble IL-1β and membrane-bound IL-1α, and are able to significantly magnify IL-1 production by immune cells. As platelets outnumber leukocytes by several folds, they could potentially be the major source of extracellular inflammasomes in the body, or be a major producer of IL-1 precursors that are cleaved by extracellular inflammasomes released from dying immune cells. In this proposal, we will investigate the mechanism(s) by which platelets produce IL-1, and the specific contribution of platelet-derived IL-1 to sterile inflammation, or host resistance to bacterial and viral infection. We believe that a deeper understanding of platelet-IL-1 and their interaction with immune cells during sterile inflammation, or infection might help to uncover new targets for immune-therapies.
Kinematics of unconstrained tactile texture exploration

A hallmark of tactile texture exploration is that it involves movement between skin and surface. When we scan a surface, small texture-specific vibrations are produced in the skin, and specialized cutaneous mechanoreceptors convert these vibrations into highly repeatable, precise, and informative temporal spiking patterns in tactile afferents. Both texture-elicited vibrations and afferent responses are highly dependent on exploratory kinematics, however; indeed, these dilate or contract systematically with decreases or increases in scanning speed, respectively. These profound changes in the peripheral response that accompany changes in scanning speed and other parameters of texture scanning raise the question as to whether exploratory behaviors change depending on what surface is explored or what information is sought about that surface. To address this question, we measure and analyze the kinematics as subjects explore textured surfaces to evaluate different types of texture information, namely the textures' roughness, hardness, and slipperiness. We find that the exploratory movements are dependent both on the perceptual task, as has been previously shown, but also on the texture that is scanned. We discuss the implications of our findings regarding the neural coding and perception of texture.
El sistema de registro agrícola en Italia

El ordenamiento jurídico italiano prevé normas específicas sobre los registros relativos al sector agrícola, en relación con la actividad desarrollada por el agricultor: producción y bienes utilizados para el ejercicio de la actividad empresarial. Por lo tanto, este trabajo se dividirá en tres partes: en la primera, se tendrá en cuenta el registro de empresas agrícolas y los efectos jurídicos relacionados con el registro en lo que respecta a la publicidad; en la segunda parte se expondrá la normativa nacional sobre el registro de semillas y tierras agrícolas, los bienes de capital para las actividades empresariales; y en la tercera parte, finalmente, se analizarán los registros relativos a determinados tipos de productos agroalimentarios.
Fausta Antonucci, «Calderón de la Barca»

Reseña de Fausta Antonucci, Calderón de la Barca, Salerno Editrice, Roma, 2020, 364 pp. ISBN: 9788869734960.