julilili42/papers huggingface dataset:
Automatic exercise generation to support macro-adaptivity in intelligent language tutoring systems
2022-12-08

Foreign language teaching achieves best learning outcomes when individual differences of learners are taken into account. While it is difficult for teachers to support internal differentiation in the classroom, digital tools can adaptively propose individual learning paths through activities so that students can practice with appropriately challenging exercises. But how can sufficiently varied, systematically parametrized exercises be provided to enable a system to match them to individual learner needs? We present an approach for high-variability exercise generation that transforms a single specification into a multitude of exercises varying in complexity. The approach is currently being evaluated in a randomized controlled study in regular German seventh grade English classes, facilitating a systematic empirical exploration of adaptive exercise complexity in relation to learning outcomes.
The role of face masks within in-patient psychotherapy: Results of a survey among inpatients and healthcare professionals
2022-12-08

Introduction Face-to-face medical and psychotherapeutic treatments during the Corona pandemic often involve patients and health care providers wearing face masks. We performed a pilot survey assessing the subjective experience of wearing face masks during psychotherapy sessions regarding (i) feasibility, (ii) psychotherapeutic treatment and (iii) communication, emotion and working alliance in patients and healthcare professionals. Methods A total of n = 62 inpatients (RR = 95.4%) and n = 33 healthcare professionals (RR = 86.8%) at an academic department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy participated in this survey anonymously. The items of the questionnaire were created by the interprofessional expert team and were based on existing instruments: (i) the Therapeutic Relationship Questionnaire and (ii) the German translation of Yalom’s Questionnaire on Experiencing in Group Psychotherapy. Results The majority of patients rate their psychotherapy as highly profitable despite the mask. In individual therapy, face masks seem to have a rather low impact on subjective experience of psychotherapy and the relationship to the psychotherapist. Most patients reported using alternative facial expressions and expressions. In the interactional group therapy, masks were rather hindering. On the healthcare professional side, there were more frequent negative associations of face masks in relation to (i) experiencing connectedness with colleagues, (ii) forming relationships, and (iii) therapeutic treatment. Discussion Information should be given to patients about the possible effects of face masks on the recognition of emotions, possible misinterpretations and compensation possibilities through alternative stimuli (e.g., eye area) and they should be encouraged to ask for further information. Especially in group therapy, with patients from other cultural backgrounds and in cases of need for help (e.g., hearing impairment) or complex disorders, appropriate non-verbal gestures and body language should be used to match the intended emotional expression.
Characterization of a novel non‐canonical splice site variant (c.886‐5T>A) in NBAS and description of the associated phenotype
2022-12-08

Abstract Background Biallelic pathogenic variants in the neuroblastoma‐amplified sequence ( NBAS ) gene manifest in a broad spectrum of disorders, including, but not limited to recurrent acute liver failure, skeletal dysmorphism, susceptibility to infections, and SOPH syndrome with its cardinal symptoms of short stature, optic atrophy, and Pelger–Huët anomaly. We aimed to present clinical and genetic characteristics of two sisters (20 and 15 years old) who were diagnosed with optic atrophy and cone dystrophy in childhood. Genome sequencing revealed two novel variants in NBAS in compound heterozygous state in both sisters, namely a 1‐bp deletion predicted to result in a premature termination codon (c.5104del; p.(Met1702*)), and a non‐canonical splice site variant of unclear significance (c.886‐5T&gt;A; p.?). Results Clinical examination and history revealed cone dystrophy, optic atrophy, and Pelger–Huët anomaly, but no short stature, recurrent acute liver failure, or susceptibility to infections. RNA analysis revealed that the c.886‐5T&gt;A variant results in two aberrant transcripts that are predicted to lead to in frame amino acid changes in the β‐propeller region of the protein. Conclusion We hypothesize that the phenotype of our subjects, which appears to be at the end of the spectrum of NBAS ‐related disorders, could be explained by residual protein function mediated by the non‐canonical splice site variant c.886‐5T&gt;A. Our study contributes to the existing knowledge on the genotypic and phenotypic spectrum of NBAS ‐related disorders.
Vocabulary, text coverage, word frequency and the lexical threshold in elementary school reading comprehension
2022-12-08

Abstract Vocabulary knowledge is one of the most important elements of reading comprehension. Text coverage is the proportion of known words in a given text. We hypothesize that text comprehension increases exponentially with text coverage due to network effects and activation of prior knowledge. In addition, the lexical threshold hypothesis states that text comprehension increases faster above a certain amount of text coverage. The exponential relationship between text coverage and text comprehension, as well as the lexical threshold, are at the heart of text comprehension theory and are of great interest for optimizing language instruction. In this study, we first used vocabulary knowledge to estimate text coverage based on test scores from N = 924 German fourth graders. Second, we compared linear with non-linear models of text coverage and vocabulary knowledge to explain text comprehension. Third, we used a broken-line regression to estimate a lexical threshold. The results showed an exponential relationship between text coverage and text comprehension. Moreover, text coverage explained text comprehension better than vocabulary knowledge, and text comprehension increased more quickly above 56% text coverage. From an instructional perspective, the results suggest that reading activities with text coverage below 56% are too difficult for readers and likely inappropriate for instructional purposes. Further applications of the results, such as for standard setting and readability analyses, are discussed.
Megan Server: facilitating interactive access to metagenomic data on a server
2022-12-08

Motivation Metagenomic projects of large sequencing datasets (totaling hundreds of gigabytes of data). Thus, computational preprocessing and analysis are usually performed on a server rather than on a personal computer. The results of such analyses are then usually explored interactively. One approach is to use MEGAN, an interactive program that allows analysis and comparison of metagenomic datasets. Previous releases of MEGAN have required that the user first download the computed data from the server, an increasingly time-consuming process. Here we present Megan Server, a stand-alone program that serves MEGAN files to the web, using a RESTful API, facilitating interactive analysis without downloading the complete data. We describe a number of different application scenarios. Availability Megan Server is provided as a standalone program tools/megan-server in the Megan6 software suite, available at https://software-ab.cs.uni-tuebingen.de/download/megan6 .
Enhancing EFL classroom instruction via the FeedBook: effects on language development and communicative language use
2022-12-08

The present exploratory study investigated the efficacy of secondary face-to-face classroom-based English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction digitally supported by the FeedBook, an interactive computer assisted language learning web-based suite of exercises providing item-level scaffolded feedback. Seventy-seven native (L1) German seventh-grade students used the FeedBook during four two-week training periods (cycles, here we analyse Cycle 2 and 3). Classroom and FeedBook practice occurred in parallel, except for grammar constructions for which only FeedBook practice was provided (controls). At the end of Cycle 3, students engaged in a classroom-based communicative task for which the practised constructions were relevant. Custom-designed pre- and post-tests, administered via the FeedBook, assessed language accuracy in each cycle. Mixed-effect models revealed significant pre-/post-test accuracy gains independent of the learners’ proficiency in English, but not in controls. Gains from digitally supported instruction were also positively related to accurate use of EFL grammar constructions in the communicative task. Overall, the results indicate learning benefits for face-to-face classroom-based instruction supported by the FeedBook, evidenced both in grammar tests and in communicative activities.
Multiscale entropy analysis of combined EEG-fNIRS measurement in preterm neonates
2022-12-08

In nature, biological systems such as the human brain are characterized by complex and non-linear dynamics. One way of quantifying signal complexity is Multiscale Entropy (MSE), which is suitable for structures with long-range correlation at different time scales. In developmental neuroscience, MSE can be taken as an index of brain maturation, and can differentiate between healthy and pathological development. In our current work, we explored the developmental trends of MSE on the basis of 30 simultaneous EEG – fNIRS recordings in premature infants between 27 and 34 weeks of gestational age (wGA). To explore potential factors impacting MSE, we determined the relation between MSE and the EEG Power Spectrum Density (PSD) and Spontaneous Activity Transients (SATs). As a result, via wGA, the MSE calculated on the EEG increases, thus reflecting the maturational processes in the brain networks, whereas in the fNIRS, MSE decreases, which might indicate a maturation of the brain blood supply. Moreover, we propose that the EEG power in the beta band (13 – 30 Hz) might be the main contributor to MSE in the EEG. Finally, we highlight the importance of SATs in determining MSE as calculated from the fNIRS recordings.
Entangled multiplets and spreading of quantum correlations in a continuously monitored tight-binding chain
2022-12-09

We analyze the dynamics of entanglement in a paradigmatic noninteracting system subject to continuous monitoring of the local excitation densities. Recently, it was conjectured that the evolution of quantum correlations in such system is described by a semiclassical theory, based on entangled pairs of ballistically propagating quasiparticles and inspired by the hydrodynamic approach to unitary (integrable) quantum systems. Here, however, we show that this conjecture does not fully capture the complex behavior of quantum correlations emerging from the interplay between coherent dynamics and continuous monitoring. We unveil the existence of multipartite quantum correlations which are inconsistent with an entangled-pair structure and which, within a quasiparticle picture, would require the presence of larger multiplets. We also observe that quantum information is highly delocalized, as it is shared in a collective nonredundant way among adjacent regions of the many-body system. Our results shed light onto the behavior of correlations in quantum stochastic dynamics and further show that these may be enhanced by a (weak) continuous monitoring process.
Many-Body Radiative Decay in Strongly Interacting Rydberg Ensembles
2022-12-09

When atoms are excited to high-lying Rydberg states they interact strongly with dipolar forces. The resulting state-dependent level shifts allow us to study many-body systems displaying intriguing nonequilibrium phenomena, such as constrained spin systems, and are at the heart of numerous technological applications, e.g., in quantum simulation and computation platforms. Here, we show that these interactions also have a significant impact on dissipative effects caused by the inevitable coupling of Rydberg atoms to the surrounding electromagnetic field. We demonstrate that their presence modifies the frequency of the photons emitted from the Rydberg atoms, making it dependent on the local neighborhood of the emitting atom. Interactions among Rydberg atoms thus turn spontaneous emission into a many-body process which manifests, in a thermodynamically consistent Markovian setting, in the emergence of collective jump operators in the quantum master equation governing the dynamics. We discuss how this collective dissipation-stemming from a mechanism different from the much studied superradiance and subradiance-accelerates decoherence and affects dissipative phase transitions in Rydberg ensembles.
Antiulcerogenic Potential of the Ethanolic Extract of Ceiba speciosa (A. St.-Hil.) Ravenna Evaluated by In Vitro and In Vivo Studies
2022-12-09

Gastrointestinal diseases, such as peptic ulcers, are caused by a damage in the gastric mucosa provoked by several factors. This stomach injury is regulated by many inflammatory mediators and is commonly treated with proton-pump inhibitors, histamine H2 receptor blockers and antacids. However, various medicinal plants have demonstrated positive effects on gastric ulcer treatment, including plants of the Ceiba genus. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiulcer and anti-inflammatory activities of the stem bark ethanolic extract of Ceiba speciosa (A. St.-Hil.) Ravenna. We performed a preliminary quantification of phenolic compounds by high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection (HPLC-DAD), followed by the prospection of other chemical groups through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. A set of in vitro assays was used to evaluate the extract potential regarding its antioxidant activity (DPPH: 19.83 ± 0.34 μg/mL; TPC: 307.20 ± 6.20 mg GAE/g of extract), effects on cell viability and on the release of TNF-α in whole human blood. Additionally, in vivo assays were performed to evaluate the leukocyte accumulation and total protein quantification in carrageenan-induced air pouch, as well as the antiulcerogenic effect of the extract on an ethanol-induced ulcer in rats. The extract contains flavonoids and phenolic compounds, as well as sugars and quinic acid derivatives exhibiting potent antioxidant activity and low toxicity. The extract reduced the release of TNF-α in human blood and inhibited the activity of p38α (1.66 μg/mL), JAK3 (5.25 μg/mL), and JNK3 (8.34 μg/mL). Moreover, it reduced the leukocyte recruitment on the pouch exudate and the formation of edema, reverting the effects caused by carrageenan. The extract presented a significant prevention of ulcer formation and a higher reduction than the reference drug, Omeprazole. Therefore, C. speciosa extract has demonstrated relevant therapeutic potential for the treatment of gastric diseases, deserving the continuation of further studies to unveil the mechanisms of action of plant bioactive ingredients.
Different, but the same: Inferring the hunting behaviour of the hypercarnivorous bush dog (Speothos venaticus) through finite element analysis
2022-12-09

Abstract Cerdocyonina is a clade composed by the South‐American canids in which the bush dog ( Speothos venaticus ) is one of the most elusive species. Known for its unique morphology within the group, this small, bear‐like faced canid is the only member of the clade adapted to hypercarnivory, an almost exclusively meat‐based diet currently present only in usually large, pack‐hunting canids such as the grey wolf ( Canis lupus ) . However, much of the biology of the bush dog is poorly understood, and inferences about its ecology, hunting strategies and diet are usually based on observation of captive individuals and anecdotal records, with reduced quantitative data to offer support. Here, we investigated the craniomandibular functional morphology of the bush dog through finite element analysis (FEA). FEA was employed to model the biting behaviour and to create extrinsic and intrinsic functional scenarios with different loads, corresponding to different bites used to subdue and process the prey. For comparison, the same modelling was applied to the skull of a grey wolf and a grey fox ( Urocyon cinereoargenteus ). Our analysis showed that the bush dog's responses to loading are more similar to the wolf's than to the fox's in most scenarios, suggesting a convergent craniomandibular functional morphology between these two hypercarnivorous species, despite their distinct phylogenetic positions and body sizes. Differences between the three taxa are noteworthy and suggested to be related to the size of the usual prey. The modelled bite force for the bush dog is relatively strong, about half of that estimated for the wolf and about 40% stronger than the fox's bite. The results strengthen with quantitative data the inferences of the bush dog as a pack‐hunting predator with prey size similar to its own, such as large rodents and armadillos, being specialised in subduing and killing its prey using multiple bites. Its similarity to the wolf also confirms anecdotal accounts of predation on mammals that are much larger than itself, such as peccaries and tapirs. These data highlight the ecological specialisation of this small canid in a continent where large, pack‐hunting canids are absent.
High spatial resolution artificial vision inferred from the spiking output of retinal ganglion cells stimulated by optogenetic and electrical means
2022-12-09

With vision impairment affecting millions of people world-wide, various strategies aiming at vision restoration are being undertaken. Thanks to decades of extensive research, electrical stimulation approaches to vision restoration began to undergo clinical trials. Quite recently, another technique employing optogenetic therapy emerged as a possible alternative. Both artificial vision restoration strategies reported poor spatial resolution so far. In this article, we compared the spatial resolution inferred ex vivo under ideal conditions using a computational model analysis of the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) spiking activity. The RGC spiking was stimulated in epiretinal configuration by either optogenetic or electrical means. RGCs activity was recorded from the ex vivo retina of transgenic late-stage photoreceptor-degenerated mice (rd10) using a high-density Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) based microelectrode array. The majority of retinal samples were stimulated by both, optogenetic and electrical stimuli using a spatial grating stimulus. A population-level analysis of the spiking activity of identified RGCs was performed and the spatial resolution achieved through electrical and optogenetic photo-stimulation was inferred using a support vector machine classifier. The best f 1 score of the classifier for the electrical stimulation in epiretinal configuration was 86% for 32 micron wide gratings and increased to 100% for 128 microns. For optogenetically activated cells, we obtained high f 1 scores of 82% for 10 microns grid width for a photo-stimulation frequency of 2.5 Hz and 73% for a photo-stimulation frequency of 10 Hz. A subsequent analysis, considering only the RGCs modulated in both electrical and optogenetic stimulation protocols revealed no significant difference in the prediction accuracy between the two stimulation modalities. The results presented here indicate that a high spatial resolution can be achieved for electrical or optogenetic artificial stimulation using the activated retinal ganglion cell output.
Breaking with traditions? How parental separation affects adolescents’ gender ideologies in the UK
2022-12-09

It is often assumed that parental union dissolution leads to more egalitarian gender ideologies among children. Yet evidence on variations in gender ideologies by family structures is scant and based mostly on cross-sectional data. This study offers a closer examination of whether any effect of parental union dissolution can be explained by parents restructuring work and care responsibilities along more egalitarian lines after separation. Drawing on longitudinal data from the UK Millennium Cohort Study, this study applies fixed-effects panel models to estimate the effects of parental union dissolution on gender ideologies of 6,577 adolescents between ages 11 and 14. Parental separation is found to result in more egalitarian gender ideologies toward female employment among boys but not among girls. In line with the role restructuring argument, the positive effect of separation on egalitarianism is driven by boys, whose fathers had rarely had full responsibility for childcare before separation. By highlighting differential effects and possible mechanisms, the findings offer a more nuanced understanding of the implications of increasing deinstitutionalization of family relationships.
Recent Advances in Nanotechnology for the Management of Klebsiella pneumoniae–Related Infections
2022-12-10

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an important human pathogen that causes diseases such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia, bloodstream infections, bacteremia, and sepsis. The rise of multidrug-resistant strains has severely limited the available treatments for K. pneumoniae infections. On the other hand, K. pneumoniae activity (and related infections) urgently requires improved management strategies. A growing number of medical applications are using nanotechnology, which uses materials with atomic or molecular dimensions, to diagnose, eliminate, or reduce the activity of different infections. In this review, we start with the traditional treatment and detection method for K. pneumoniae and then concentrate on selected studies (2015–2022) that investigated the application of nanoparticles separately and in combination with other techniques against K. pneumoniae.