Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Collaborative Learning, Social Presence and Student Satisfaction in a Blended Learning Environment

The paper describes the research design and main findings of a study whose objective was to examine the relationships between perceived collaborative learning, social presence and student satisfaction in blended courses at one campus belonging to a US community college system. Based on a Social Cognitive Framework for Blended Learning, a quantitative correlational design was employed and data was collected using a Collaborative Learning, Social Presence, and Satisfaction Questionnaire. The study found that there is a relationship between the constructs of perceived collaboration, perceived social presence, and self-reported student satisfaction in blended learning courses.
Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Genotypes in the Southern Region, Saudi Arabia

Aim The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of HCV genotypes in the Southern Region, Saudi Arabia. Materials & methods A total of 76 HCV-positive individuals were selected for this study, including 34 males and 42 females, both acute and chronic patients. All HCV isolates were genotyped by direct sequencing of the 5’UTR region. The Chemistry profile, viral load and history of blood transfusion were collected from the hospital record. Results The most common genotype was gt 4 (48.7%) followed by gt 1 (34.2%) and gt 3 (14.5%). Genotype 2 (2.6%) was only found in elderly male individuals. Patients with history of blood transfusion showed a high percentage of genotype 1 compared to the total number of all patients with genotype 1 (23% and 11% respectively). Biochemical assay showed high level of ALT particularly in genotype 4. No significant relationship was observed between HCV genotype and AST level between genotypes. The viral load was higher in HCV patients received blood transfusion than other genotypes. Conclusion The prevalence of genotypes in this study confirmed the observation of other investigations, but no link was found between sex and genotype. There might be an association between blood donation in the past and infections with genotype 1.
Educating the Next Generation of Data Scientists

(iSchool) at Syracuse University to discuss the issue of big data education through an expert roundtable discussion. The participants discuss big data from all sides—from wrestling with the definition and the science behind big data, to how the iSchool is cultivating a full data lifecycle perspective with its on-campus and online program. The importance of industrial collaboration is also emphasized, in order to meet the growing demand for big data analysis. Read on for more, including a link to Syracuse iSchool's free introductory e-book on data science. Edd Dumbill: Let's start with the biggest question about big data that a lot of people are asking, which is: What is it? We have heard a lot this year, but from your point-of-view running this course, how do you break down big data? Elizabeth D. Liddy: I personally think of big data as a very large collection set of either textual or numeric data and, increasingly, image data, which can either be collected for a common purpose or it could come from very diverse sources. The clear goal is to reuse it. To look at another main point: How is it we learn from it? We now know that everything we do is monitored or tracked in some way, so not just the formal collection of data, but that data from all the social media resources, from buying habits—everything is data of some type right now. The point is, no matter if you are in industry, a government agency, a hospital, or a school—there are things we can learn from data. My goal with big data is to learn something to improve the next version of whatever it is we are doing. Edd Dumbill: Jeff, I wonder if you can give an overview of what you mean by data science? Jeff Stanton: I think about data science as three really large areas. The first one that people identify most closely with data science, particularly in industry discussions, is the analytics component. I keep visualization in that same bucket. Ana-lytics and visualization are ways of taking data that you may have and that you may have cleaned and turning it into something that is actionable—turning it into conclusions. Analytics is just one area though. There are two other big areas that figure in, and one is the infrastructure. If you imagine data that is used in industry, it often begins with point-of-sale systems …
Delay-Dependent Stability Analysis and Controller Synthesis for Discrete-Time T&#8211;S Fuzzy Systems With Time Delays

Based on a novel delay-dependent piecewise Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional (DPLKF), this paper presents delay-dependent stability analysis and synthesis methods for discrete-time Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy systems with time delays. It is shown that the stability and stabilization with some required performance can be established for the closed loop control system if there exists a DPLKF and that the DPLKF and the corresponding controller can be obtained by solving a set of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). New algorithms have also been developed to obtain the maximum value of the allowable constant delay and the suboptimal performance upper bound. An example is finally presented to demonstrate the efficiency and advantage of the proposed methods
WAS*IS: Building a community for integrating meteorology and social science

Weather and Society*Integrated Studies (WAS*IS) is a grassroots movement to change the weather enterprise by comprehensively and sustainably integrating social science into meteorological research and practice. WAS*IS is accomplishing this by establishing a framework for a) building an interdisciplinary community of practitioners, researchers, and stakeholders who are dedicated to the integration of meteorology and social science, and b) providing this community with a means to learn and further examine ideas, methods, and examples related to integrated weather-society work. In its first year, WAS*IS focused on achieving its mission primarily through several workshops. Between July 2005 and August2006, there were three WAS*IS workshops with a total of 86 selected participants. The workshops focused on the following: laying the groundwork for conducting interdisciplinary work, teaching basic tools and concepts relevant to integrated weather-society efforts, using real-world examples to learn about effectiv.
Directed test suite augmentation: techniques and tradeoffs

Test suite augmentation techniques are used in regression testing to identify code elements affected by changes and to generate test cases to cover those elements. Our preliminary work suggests that several factors influence the cost and effectiveness of test suite augmentation techniques. These include the order in which affected elements are considered while generating test cases, the manner in which existing regression test cases and newly generated test cases are used, and the algorithm used to generate test cases. In this work, we present the results of an empirical study examining these factors, considering two test case generation algorithms (concolic and genetic). The results of our experiment show that the primary factor affecting augmentation is the test case generation algorithm utilized; this affects both cost and effectiveness. The manner in which existing and newly generated test cases are utilized also has a substantial effect on efficiency but a lesser effect on effectiveness. The order in which affected elements are considered turns out to have relatively few effects when using concolic test case generation, but more substantial effects when using genetic test case generation.
SET-based nano-circuit simulation and design method using HSPICE

This paper presents a simulation and design method for complementary SET-based nano-circuits. A HSPICE behavioral implementation of modified Lientschnig's SET model based on the orthodox theory and the Birth-Death Markov chain is demonstrated and verified with Coulomb characteristics. It shows a reduced CPU time and more compatibility with other SPICE softwares on both Windows and Unix. The design methodology illustrates how to build CMOS-like SET circuits, and based on it, conventional static CMOS circuit design methodologies are all applicable to SET circuit designs. Simulation results show that, for 1M$\Omega$ junction resistance, the power consumption of a SET NAND2 gate is less than 0.3pW, and the propagation delay for a SET XOR2 gate is only 29.8ns while driving a 10aF load.
Assessment of outcome in psoriatic arthritis

Purpose of reviewA number of drugs for psoriatic arthritis have been tested in randomized clinical trials, and more agents are likely to be evaluated in the future. Such studies have highlighted the relative lack of well-validated or agreed-on outcomes that should be assessed. Recent findingsConsensus exercises have identified core domains for intervention studies in psoriatic arthritis. Many of the tools used to measure these domains have been borrowed from rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis, but increasing data relate to psoriatic arthritis specifically. Nonetheless, there are gaps in the measurement toolkit, particularly with respect to assessing dactylitis and axial inflammation. Further validation of functional disability instruments, radiologic scoring methods, and enthesitis instruments is also required. Currently available composite responder criteria are based principally on peripheral joint inflammation and may not be inclusive enough to represent fully the spectrum of patients with psoriatic arthritis. SummaryThere have been significant developments in robust tools for assessing outcome in psoriatic arthritis. Since October 2002, much of the activity in this area has been developed by the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis and will have culminated in the Outcomes Measures in Rheumatology Clinical Trials meeting in May 2004. Relatively little of this work has been published at the time of this review. Nevertheless, this effort will have a significant influence on the design and reporting of clinical trials in psoriatic arthritis.
Complex Interplay between the P-Glycoprotein Multidrug Efflux Pump and the Membrane: Its Role in Modulating Protein Function

Multidrug resistance in cancer is linked to expression of the P-glycoprotein multidrug transporter (Pgp, ABCB1), which exports many structurally diverse compounds from cells. Substrates first partition into the bilayer and then interact with a large flexible binding pocket within the transporter’s transmembrane regions. Pgp has been described as a hydrophobic vacuum cleaner or an outwardly directed drug/lipid flippase. Recent X-ray crystal structures have shed some light on the nature of the drug-binding pocket and suggested routes by which substrates can enter it from the membrane. Detergents have profound effects on Pgp function, and several appear to be substrates. Biochemical and biophysical studies in vitro, some using purified reconstituted protein, have explored the effects of the membrane environment. They have demonstrated that Pgp is involved in a complex relationship with its lipid environment, which modulates the behavior of its substrates, as well as various functions of the protein, including ATP hydrolysis, drug binding, and drug transport. Membrane lipid composition and fluidity, phospholipid headgroup and acyl chain length all influence Pgp function. Recent studies focusing on thermodynamics and kinetics have revealed some important principles governing Pgp–lipid and substrate–lipid interactions, and how these affect drug-binding and transport. In some cells, Pgp is associated with cholesterol-rich microdomains, which may modulate its functions. The relationship between Pgp and cholesterol remains an open question; however, it clearly affects several aspects of its function in addition to substrate–membrane partitioning. The action of Pgp modulators appears to depend on their membrane permeability, and membrane fluidizers and surfactants reverse drug resistance, likely via an indirect mechanism. A detailed understanding of how the membrane affects Pgp substrates and Pgp’s catalytic cycle may lead to new strategies to combat clinical drug resistance.
Infections by Renibacterium salmoninarum and Nanophyetus salmincola Chapin are associated with reduced growth of juvenile Chinook salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytscha (Walbaum), in the Northeast Pacific Ocean.

We examined 1454 juvenile Chinook salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytscha (Walbaum), captured in nearshore waters off the coasts of Washington and Oregon (USA) from 1999 to 2004 for infection by Renibacterium salmoninarum, Nanophyetus salmincola Chapin and skin metacercariae. The prevalence and intensities for each of these infections were established for both yearling and subyearling Chinook salmon. Two metrics of salmon growth, weight residuals and plasma levels of insulin-like growth factor-1, were determined for salmon infected with these pathogens/parasites, both individually and in combination, with uninfected fish used for comparison. Yearling Chinook salmon infected with R. salmoninarum had significantly reduced weight residuals. Chinook salmon infected with skin metacercariae alone did not have significantly reduced growth metrics. Dual infections were not associated with significantly more severe effects on the growth metrics than single infections; the number of triple infections was very low and precluded statistical comparison. Overall, these data suggest that infections by these organisms can be associated with reduced juvenile Chinook salmon growth. Because growth in the first year at sea has been linked to survival for some stocks of Chinook salmon, the infections may therefore play a role in regulating these populations in the Northeast Pacific Ocean.
Burns first aid

In the UK alone there are approximately 175,000 acute burn injuries /year. There is a great variation in the way these injuries are managed. Advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology and natural history of burn injuries have highlighted the importance of early intervention in minimizing later functional and cosmetic morbidity. Differences in beliefs and ethnic background have a large impact on the way that burns are initially dealt with, as we know that only a minority of patients presenting with burns are optimally managed pre-hospital. Lack of education and conflicting information about burns first aid is believed to be a major factor in the common occurrence of burnt patients presenting with a variety of domestic remedies being applied to their burns as first aid. Judicious application of simple burns first aid is the first step for soft tissue preservation, improvement of outcomes and a decrease in the need for operative management.
Power Quality Prediction, Early Warning, and Control for Points of Common Coupling with Wind Farms

Wind farms can affect the power quality (PQ) of the power supply grid, with subsequent impacts on the safe and stable operation of other electrical equipment. A novel PQ prediction, early warning, and control approach for the common coupling points between wind farms and the network is proposed in this paper. We then quantify PQ problems and provide rational support measures. To obtain predicted PQ data, we first establish a trend analysis model. The model incorporates a distance-based cluster analysis, probability distribution analysis based on polynomial fitting, pattern matching based on similarity, and Monte Carlo random sampling. A data mining algorithm then uses the PQ early warning flow to analyze limit-exceeding and abnormal data, quantify their severity, and output early warning prompts. Finally, PQ decision support is applied to inform both the power suppliers and users of anomalous changes in PQ, and advise on corresponding countermeasures to reduce relevant losses. Case studies show that the proposed approach is effective and feasible, and it has now been applied to an actual PQ monitoring platform.
Cognition, sleep and respiration in at-risk children treated for obstructive sleep apnoea

Sleep-disordered breathing in children has been associated with cognitive impairment. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T&A) on sleep, respiration and cognitive function in children of pre-school age with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) from a low-income community population. Altogether, 19 children attending state-funded pre-school programmes underwent overnight polysomnography and cognitive assessment before and following surgical treatment for OSA; 19 matched controls were also assessed. Following T&A, OSA subjects' delta sleep increased, rapid eye movement sleep decreased, and respiratory and arousal indices improved. There were no significant differences in OSA subjects' post-operative sleep or respiratory measures compared to controls. Prior to T&A, cognitive scores were significantly lower in OSA subjects versus controls; following T&A, OSA subjects' scores improved compared to pre-operative scores and did not differ from those of matched controls. Following tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, at-risk pre-schoolers recruited directly from the community showed normalised sleep and respiratory patterns and improved cognitive scores. These findings, in this uniquely vulnerable population, which is unlikely to seek evaluation and treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea, underscore the potential value of outreach screening programmes for sleep-disordered breathing, particularly among low-income groups of pre-school age.
Prognostic Factors and Clinical Features in Liveborn Neonates with Hydrops Fetalis

The purpose of this study was to delineate the etiology and the clinical features of liveborn neonates with hydrops fetalis, and to explore the prognostic factors for survival. Medical records of 28 liveborn neonates with hydrops fetalis between April 1995 and March 2005 were reviewed retrospectively. Demographic data, clinical manifestations, laboratory findings, and outcomes were analyzed. Most patients presented with pleural effusions (21 of 28) and ascites (22 of 28). The majority of patients had hydrops due to cardiovascular diseases (seven of 28), hematologic disorders (six of 28), lymphatic malformations (six of 28), and idiopathic origins (six of 28). The overall survival rate was 50% and was highest (83%) in infants with lymphatic malformations. By univariate analysis, risk factors for mortality are earlier ages at diagnosis and at birth, low Apgar scores, need for resuscitation in the delivery room, low serum albumin level, and severe acidemia. After using stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis, the most significant factors associated with fatality were younger gestational age at birth and lower serum albumin level. Hydrops fetalis remains a complex condition with a high mortality rate. Hydrops resulting from lymphatic malformations has a favorable outcome. Preterm birth at less than 34 weeks and serum albumin concentration lower than 2 g/dL are two poor prognostic factors for survival.
Bayesian geometric model for line network extraction from satellite images

This paper presents a two-step algorithm to perform an unsupervised extraction of line networks from satellite images, within a stochastic geometry framework. First, we propose a new operator, providing a measure of the possibility of linear structure presence on each image pixel. Second, we propose a Bayesian model in order to extract the line network from the operator output. The prior model, a Markov object process, incorporates the topological properties of the network through interactions between objects, while the line operator answers are taken into account in the likelihood. Optimization is realized by simulated annealing using a reversible jump Monte Carlo Markov chain algorithm. An application to hydrographic network extraction is presented.
Glycines from the APP GXXXG/GXXXA Transmembrane Motifs Promote Formation of Pathogenic Aβ Oligomers in Cells

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive cognitive decline leading to dementia. The amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a ubiquitous type I transmembrane (TM) protein sequentially processed to generate the β-amyloid peptide (Aβ), the major constituent of senile plaques that are typical AD lesions. There is a growing body of evidence that soluble Aβ oligomers correlate with clinical symptoms associated with the disease. The Aβ sequence begins in the extracellular juxtamembrane region of APP and includes roughly half of the TM domain. This region contains GXXXG and GXXXA motifs, which are critical for both TM protein interactions and fibrillogenic properties of peptides derived from TM α-helices. Glycine-to-leucine mutations of these motifs were previously shown to affect APP processing and Aβ production in cells. However, the detailed contribution of these motifs to APP dimerization, their relation to processing, and the conformational changes they can induce within Aβ species remains undefined. Here, we describe highly resistant Aβ42 oligomers that are produced in cellular membrane compartments. They are formed in cells by processing of the APP amyloidogenic C-terminal fragment (C99), or by direct expression of a peptide corresponding to Aβ42, but not to Aβ40. By a point-mutation approach, we demonstrate that glycine-to-leucine mutations in the G29XXXG33 and G38XXXA42 motifs dramatically affect the Aβ oligomerization process. G33 and G38 in these motifs are specifically involved in Aβ oligomerization; the G33L mutation strongly promotes oligomerization, while G38L blocks it with a dominant effect on G33 residue modification. Finally, we report that the secreted Aβ42 oligomers display pathological properties consistent with their suggested role in AD, but do not induce toxicity in survival assays with neuronal cells. Exposure of neurons to these Aβ42 oligomers dramatically affects neuronal differentiation and, consequently, neuronal network maturation.
Structure-Activity Relationship Studies of Fostriecin, Cytostatin, and Key Analogs, with PP1, PP2A, PP5, and (β12–β13)-Chimeras (PP1/PP2A and PP5/PP2A), Provide Further Insight into the Inhibitory Actions of Fostriecin Family Inhibitors

Fostriecin and cytostatin are structurally related natural inhibitors of serine/threonine phosphatases, with promising antitumor activity. The total synthesis of these antitumor agents has enabled the production of structural analogs, which are useful to explore the biological significance of features contained in the parent compounds. Here, the inhibitory activity of fostriecin, cytostatin, and 10 key structural analogs were tested in side-by-side phosphatase assays to further characterize their inhibitory activity against PP1c (Ser/Thr protein phosphatase 1 catalytic subunit), PP2Ac (Ser/Thr protein phosphatase 2A catalytic subunit), PP5c (Ser/Thr protein phosphatase 5 catalytic subunit), and chimeras of PP1 (Ser/Thr protein phosphatase 1) and PP5 (Ser/Thr protein phosphatase 5), in which key residues predicted for inhibitor contact with PP2A (Ser/Thr protein phosphatase 2A) were introduced into PP1 and PP5 using site-directed mutagenesis. The data confirm the importance of the C9-phosphate and C11-alcohol for general inhibition and further demonstrate the importance of a predicted C3 interaction with a unique cysteine (Cys269) in the β12–β13 loop of PP2A. The data also indicate that additional features beyond the unsaturated lactone contribute to inhibitory potency and selectivity. Notably, a derivative of fostriecin lacking the entire lactone subunit demonstrated marked potency and selectivity for PP2A, while having substantially reduced and similar activity against PP1 and PP1/PP2A- PP5/PP2A-chimeras that have greatly increased sensitivity to both fostriecin and cytostatin. This suggests that other features [e.g., the (Z,Z,E)-triene] also contribute to inhibitory selectivity. When considered together with previous data, these studies suggest that, despite the high structural conservation of the catalytic site in PP1, PP2A and PP5, the development of highly selective catalytic inhibitors should be feasible.