Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Limited Sampling Strategy for Predicting Area Under the Concentration–Time Curve for Mycophenolic Acid in Chinese Adults Receiving Mycophenolate Mofetil and Tacrolimus Early After Renal Transplantation

Background: The objective of the study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in Chinese adults early after renal transplantation by an enzyme multiplied immunoassay technique and to establish a limited sampling strategy to predict the area under the concentration–time curve for plasma levels of mycophenolic acid (MPA-AUC). Methods: Fifty-eight recipients who underwent renal transplantation with an organ donated after cardiac death used a triple immunosuppressant strategy of MMF, tacrolimus, and prednisone. On the seventh day posttransplantation, plasma samples were collected at 0 hours (pre-dose) and at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 hours postdose (C0h, C0.5h, C1h, C1.5h, C2h, C4h, C6h, C8h, C10h, and C12h, respectively). Enzyme multiplied immunoassay technique was used to measure mycophenolic acid concentration, and model equations were generated by multiple stepwise regression analysis to determine MPA-AUC0–12h. Results: The 3-point equation obtained by multiple linear regression analysis was MPA-AUC = 7.951 + 4.04C6h + 1.893C2h + 4.542C10h (adjusted r2 = 0.863); the 4-point equation was MPA-AUC = 4.272 + 4.074C6h + 1.896C2h + 4.680C10h + 0.859C0.5h (adjusted r2 = 0.918). The % mean prediction error, % mean absolute error, and % root mean squared prediction error for the best-fit formula using C6h, C2h, C10h, and C0.5h were −0.2%, 8.7%, and 14.2%, respectively. Conclusions: In Chinese adults receiving MMF and tacrolimus early after renal transplantation, the best equation for predicting MPA-AUC0–12h is 4.272 + 4.074C6h + 1.896C2h + 4.680C10h + 0.859C0.5h.
Interleukin-8 as a stratification tool for interventional trials involving pediatric septic shock.

RATIONALE Interventional clinical trials involving children with septic shock would benefit from an efficient preenrollment stratification strategy. OBJECTIVES To test the predictive value of interleukin (IL)-8 for 28-day mortality in pediatric septic shock. METHODS A training data set (n = 40) identified a serum IL-8 of greater than 220 pg/ml as having a 75% sensitivity and specificity for predicting 28-day mortality. This cutoff was then subjected to a series of validation steps. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Subjects were drawn from two large, independent pediatric septic shock databases. Prospective application of the IL-8 cutoff to validation data set 1 (n = 139) demonstrated 78% sensitivity and 64% specificity for 28-day mortality. A serum IL-8 level of 220 pg/ml or less, however, had a negative predictive value for 28-day mortality of 95% in validation data set 1, which was subsequently applied to an independently generated data set of children with septic shock (validation set 2, n = 193). A serum IL-8 level of 220 pg/ml or less had a negative predictive value for 28-day mortality of 94% when applied to validation set 2. CONCLUSIONS A serum IL-8 level of 220 pg/ml or less, obtained within 24 hours of admission, predicts a high likelihood of survival in children with septic shock. We propose that IL-8 can be used to exclude such patients from interventional clinical trials and ultimately derive a study population with a more favorable risk to benefit ratio when subjected to a study agent.
Continuous Physical Layer Authentication Using a Novel Adaptive OFDM System

Traditional authentication techniques for wireless communications are facing various challenges due to the unique radio propagation environment. A new continuous physical layer authentication technique with time-varying transmission parameters is investigated to enhance the security of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) based wireless communications. A precoded cyclic prefix (PCP) is employed to convey the time-varying physical layer transmission parameters of each OFDM symbol for legitimate receivers. The new PCP sequences are generated with the same time and frequency domain characteristics as data-carrying OFDM signals to reduce the probability of interception. With the proper recovery of system parameters and interference cancellation, legitimate users can demodulate the received OFDM signal after the PCP signaling detection. In addition, a cross layer design approach, which addresses the dependency between PCP configurations and the authentication performance, is introduced to optimize the proposed system. Numerical simulations are also carried out to show that the authentication performance, in terms of system robustness, security and stealth, can be significantly improved by the proposed continuous PCP-OFDM system.
CCR: A concise convolution rule for sparse neural network accelerators

Convolutional Neural networks (CNNs) have achieved great success in a broad range of applications. As CNN-based methods are often both computation and memory intensive, sparse CNNs have emerged as an effective solution to reduce the amount of computation and memory accesses while maintaining the high accuracy. However, dense CNN accelerators can hardly benefit from the reduction of computations and memory accesses due to the lack of support for irregular and sparse models. This paper proposed a concise convolution rule (CCR) to diminish the gap between sparse CNNs and dense CNN accelerators. CCR transforms a sparse convolution into multiple effective and ineffective ones. The ineffective convolutions in which either the neurons or synapses are all zeros do not contribute to the final results and the computations and memory accesses can be eliminated. The effective convolutions in which both the neurons and synapses are dense can be easily mapped to the existing dense CNN accelerators. Unlike prior approaches which trade complexity for flexibility, CCR advocates a novel approach to reaping the benefits from the reduction of computation and memory accesses as well as the acceleration of the existing dense architectures without intrusive PE modifications. As a case study, we implemented a sparse CNN accelerator, SparseK, following the rationale of CCR. The experiments show that SparseK achieved a speedup of 2.9 χ on VGG16 compared to a comparably provisioned dense architecture. Compared with state-of-the-art sparse accelerators, SparseK can improve the performance and energy efficiency by 1. 8χ and 1. 5χ, respectively.
Formation of ultracold NaRb Feshbach molecules

We report the creation of ultracold bosonic 23Na87Rb Feshbach molecules via magneto-association. By ramping the magnetic field across an interspecies Feshbach resonance (FR), at least 4000 molecules can be produced out of the near degenerate ultracold mixture. Fast loss due to inelastic atom–molecule collisions is observed, which limits the pure molecule number, after residual atoms removal, to 1700. The pure molecule sample can live for 21.8(8) ms in the optical trap, long enough for future molecular spectroscopy studies toward coherently transferring to the singlet ro-vibrational ground state, where these molecules are stable against chemical reaction and have a permanent electric dipole moment of 3.3 Debye. We have also measured the Feshbach molecule’s binding energy near the FR by the oscillating magnetic field method and found these molecules have a large closed-channel fraction.
A Comparative Study on Feature Selection in Text Categorization

This paper is a comparative study of feature selection methods in statistical learning of text categorization. The focus is on aggressive dimensionality reduction. Five meth-ods were evaluated, including term selection based on document frequency (DF), information gain (IG), mutual information (MI), a (cid:31) 2 -test (CHI), and term strength (TS). We found IG and CHI most e(cid:11)ective in our experiments. Using IG thresholding with a k-nearest neighbor classi(cid:12)er on the Reuters corpus, removal of up to 98% removal of unique terms actually yielded an improved classi(cid:12)-cation accuracy (measured by average precision). DF thresholding performed similarly. Indeed we found strong correlations between the DF, IG and CHI values of a term. This suggests that DF thresholding, the simplest method with the lowest cost in computation, can be reliably used instead of IG or CHI when the computation of these measures are too expensive. TS compares favorably with the other methods with up to 50% vocabulary reduction but is not competitive at higher vocabulary reduction levels. In contrast, MI had relatively poor performance due to its bias towards favoring rare terms, and its sensitivity to probability estimation errors.
Distributed leader-following consensus for second-order multi-agent systems with nonlinear inherent dynamics

In this paper, the leader-following consensus problem for second-order multi-agent systems with nonlinear inherent dynamics is investigated. Two distributed control protocols are proposed under fixed undirected communication topology and fixed directed communication topology. Some sufficient conditions are obtained for the states of followers converging to the state of virtual leader globally exponentially. Rigorous proofs are given by using graph theory, matrix theory and Lyapunov theory. Simulations are also given to verify the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Results of GeRoMeSuite for OAEI 2008

GeRoMeSuite is a generic model management system which provides several functions for managing complex data models, such as schema integration, definition and execution of schema mappings, model transformation, and matching. The system uses the generic metamodel GeRoMe for representing models, and because of this, it is able to deal with models in various modeling languages such as XML Schema, OWL, ER, and relational schemas. A component for schema matching and ontology alignment is also part of the system. We participated this year the first time in the OAEI contest in order to evaluate and compare the performance of our matcher component with other systems. Therefore, we focused our efforts on the 'benchmark' track.
Altered topology of neural circuits in congenital prosopagnosia

Using a novel fMRI-based inter-subject functional correlation (ISFC) approach, which isolates stimulus-locked inter-regional correlation patterns, we compared the cortical topology of the neural circuit for face processing in participants with congenital prosopagnosia (CP) and matched controls. Whereas the anterior temporal lobe served as the major network hub for face processing in controls, this was not the case for the CPs. Instead, this group evinced hyper-connectivity in posterior regions of the visual cortex, mostly associated with the lateral occipital and the inferior temporal cortices. Moreover, the extent to which the network organization was atypical differed as a function of the severity of the face recognition deficit. These results offer new insights into the perturbed cortical topology in CP, which may serve as the underlying neural basis of the behavioral deficits typical of this disorder. The approach adopted here has the potential to uncover altered topologies in other neurodevelopmental disorders, as well. Significance Statement Congenital prosopagnosia (CP; ‘face blindness’), a developmental deficit in face recognition, is thought to affect up to 3% of the population. Understanding its neural basis is challenging as there is no obvious deficit on conventional structural or functional MRI scans. Using an innovative, fMRI-based inter-subject correlation approach geared towards tracking inter-regional stimulus-locked brain activation, the present study uncovers marked topological differences in a distributed brain network of higher-order visual regions in CP relative to controls. Alteration in topology also differs as a function of the severity of the deficit. These findings shed new light on the neural perturbations underlying CP, and the analytic approach we have adopted may have utility in elucidating the neural basis of other neurodevelopmental disorders such as dyslexia or amusia.
Staff perception of patient discharge from ICU to ward-based care.

BACKGROUND The quality of information exchange between intensive care unit (ICU) and ward nurses, when patients are transferred out of intensive care, is important to the continuity of safe care. AIM This research aimed to explore nurses' experiences of the discharge process from ICU to the ward environment. DESIGN The study was conducted in a New Zealand Metropolitan hospital, using an exploratory descriptive design we adapted a questionnaire based on Whittaker and Ball's research on ICU patient handover. METHOD The questionnaires were then analysed using a descriptive thematic approach. RESULTS The response rate of 48% included 45 ICU and 47 ward nurses. Key findings were that the written and verbal communication needs differ dependent upon setting and the timing of a discharge. Timing of handover also requires negotiation. CONCLUSIONS Being able to negotiate the timing and nature of handover is important for nurses. In addition, standardized approaches to communication are believed to enhance patient safety. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Standardized handover, with content and processes that are mutually negotiated, is crucial to providing the safest environment for patients.
Root Dentin Strain and Temperature

systems rehabilitation steps on the strain and temperature rise on apical and cervical root dentin regions. Twenty-one extracted human canine teeth had two strain gages attached to the distal root surface and two thermocouples attached to the mesial root surface (cervical and apical). The strain and temperature rise were recorded during the following procedures: root canal preparation, final rinse and drying, root canal filling and canal relief. Then the teeth were divided into three groups (n=7), according to the type of post system: CPC, cast post and core; FGP, fiberglass post; and PSP, prefabricated steel post. Data continued to be recorded during the post space preparation, post modeling (only for CPC), post trying and post cementation. Data were subjected to a two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s test (α=0.05). The post-space preparation caused the highest temperature rise (4.0-14.9 °C) and the highest strain in the apical region during irrespective of post type. The resin cement light-activation resulted in significant temperature increases in the cervical region for all of the groups. The canal relief and the post-space preparation produced highest temperature rises. The CPC post modeling resulted in higher root strain level similarly the level of post preparation. The PSP resulted in highest strain during post trying and post cementation. Root Dentin Strain and Temperature R i s e D u r i n g E n d o d o n t i c Treatment and Post Rehabilitation
Frequency and associations of chronic kidney disease among gout patients from a University Teaching Hospital in Nigeria

Objectives To highlight common precipitants and co-morbidities of gout in Nigerians; determine the frequency of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Nigerian gout patients, as well as identify significant associations of CKD in gout patients. Material and methods Retrospective cross-sectional study of gout cases seen at the Rheumatology Clinic of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital over five years from January 2011 to December 2015. Gout was diagnosed using the 1977 American Rheumatism Association (ARA) criteria. Clinical and laboratory data were extracted and examined for the presence of CKD defined using Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) 2012 guidelines as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR, CKD-EPI) < 60 mls/min/1.73 m2 body surface area for > 3 months. Results One hundred and six gout patients were identified representing 4.5% out of a total of 2330 cases seen during the study period. There were 94 males and 12 females. Oligoarthritis was most frequent (41.5%) with the knee mostly affected (20.1%). Diuretic use was the most frequent precipitant (37.9%) with hypertension the commonest co-morbidity (62.9%). Of 70 patients with complete results, 29 had eGFR (CKD-EPI) < 60 mls/min (41.4%). Age, proteinuria, body mass index (BMI) and packed cell volume (PCV) were significant associations of CKD. Gout patients with CKD were significantly older (61.79 vs. 54.41 years, p = 0.003) with a significantly higher proportion developing proteinuria (15 vs. 4 patients, p ≤ 0.0001) compared to those without CKD. In contrast, those with CKD had a significantly lower BMI (27.31 vs. 29.65 kg/m2, p = 0.026) and PCV (31.97 vs. 37.95%, p = 0.005). Conclusions Thiazide diuretic use is the most common precipitant while hypertension is the commonest comorbidity in Nigerian gout patients. About two in five Nigerian gout patients had chronic kidney disease at presentation with age, proteinuria, BMI and PCV as significant associations. It is thus imperative to screen for chronic kidney disease when managing gout patients.
Manifold Sampling for Nonconvex Optimization of Piecewise Linear Compositions

We develop a manifold sampling algorithm for the unconstrained minimization of 4 a nonsmooth composite function f , ψ + h ◦ F when ψ is smooth with known derivatives, h is a 5 nonsmooth, piecewise linear function, and F is smooth but expensive to evaluate. The trust-region 6 algorithm classifies points in the domain of h as belonging to different manifolds and uses this knowl7 edge when computing search directions. Since h is known, classifying objective manifolds using only 8 the values of F is simple. We prove that all cluster points of the sequence of the manifold sampling 9 algorithm iterates are Clarke stationary; this holds although points evaluated by the algorithm are 10 not assumed to be differentiable and when only approximate derivatives of F are available. Numer11 ical results show that manifold sampling using zero-order information is competitive with gradient 12 sampling algorithms that are given exact gradient values. 13
Stomatal protection against hydraulic failure: a comparison of coexisting ferns and angiosperms.

• Hydraulic characteristics of pteridophyte (fern and Selaginella) foliage were investigated to determine whether the processes of water conduction and water loss are coordinated in these early vascular plants similarly to angiosperms. • Eight species of pteridophytes and associated woody angiosperms were examined from the sun and shade in a seasonally dry tropical forest. • Maximum leaf hydraulic conductivity (Kleaf ) in the four pteridophytes was within the range of the sampled shade angiosperms but much lower than that of the sun-dwelling angiosperms. Hydraulic conductivity of both angiosperm and pteridophyte leaves showed a similar response to desiccation, with Kleaf becoming rapidly depressed once leaf water potential fell below a threshold. Stomatal closure in angiosperms corresponded closely with the water potential responsible for 50% loss of Kleaf while pteridophytes were found to close stomata before Kleaf depression. • The contrasting behaviour of stomata in this sample of pteridophytes suggest that this may be an intrinsic difference between pteridophytes and angiosperms, with lower safety margins in angiosperms possibly enhancing both optimization of gas exchange and xylem investment.
Valletto: A Multimodal Interface for Ubiquitous Visual Analytics

Modern technologies enable data analysis in scenarios where keyboard and mouse are not available. Research on multimodality in visual analytics is facing this challenge. But existing approaches consider exclusively static environments with large screens. Therefore, we envision Valletto, a prototypical tablet app which allows the user to generate and specify visualizations through a speech-based conversational interface, through multitouch gestures, and through a conventional GUI interface. We conducted an initial expert evaluation to gain information on the modality function mapping and for the integration of different modalities. Our aim is to discuss design and interaction considerations in a mobile context which fits the user's daily life.
Molecular Imaging in Preclinical Models of IBD with Nuclear Imaging Techniques: State-of-the-Art and Perspectives

Abstract:Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, is characterized by chronic unregulated inflammation of the intestinal mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract. To date, this pathology has no cure. Colonoscopy and biopsies are the current gold standard diagnostic tools. However, being a chronic disease, IBD requires continuous follow-up to check for disease progress, treatment response, and remission. Unfortunately, these 2 diagnostic procedures are invasive and generally unable to show the cellular and molecular changes that take place in vivo. In this context, it is clear that there is a strong need for optimized noninvasive imaging techniques able to overcome the aforementioned limitations. This review aims to bring to light the scientific advancements that have been achieved so far in nuclear medicine in relation to tracking of immune cells involved in the preclinical models of IBD. In particular, this review will explore the advantages and limitations of the radiopharmaceuticals that aim to track whole cells like neutrophils, those that involve the radiolabeling of immune cell substrates or available human IBD medical therapies, and those that aim to track cell signaling molecules (e.g., cytokines and cell adhesion molecules). After a detailed critical summary of the state-of-the art, the challenges and perspectives of molecular imaging applied to IBD studies will be analyzed. Special attention will be paid to the translational potential of the described techniques and on the potential impact of these innovative approaches on the drug discovery pipelines and their contribution to the evolution of personalized medicine.
System-wide lean implementation in health care: A multiple case study

Background Lean practices have been widely used by health care organizations to meet efficiency, performance and quality improvement needs. The lean health care literature shows that the effective implementation of lean requires a holistic system-wide approach. However, there is still limited evidence on what drives effective system-wide lean implementation in health care. The existing literature suggests that a deeper understanding of how lean interventions interact with the organizational context is necessary to identify the critical variables to successfully sustain system-wide lean strategies. Purpose and methodology: A multiple case study of three Italian hospitals is conducted with the aim to explore the organizational conditions that are relevant for an effective system-wide lean implementation. A conceptual framework, built on socio-technical system schemas, is used to guide data collection and analysis. Findings: The analysis points out the importance to support lean implementation with an integrated and coordinated strategy involving the social, technical, and external components of the overall hospital system.