Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
On the capacity of the wiretap channel with generalized feedback

It is well-known that feedback does not increase the capacity of point-to-point memoryless channels, however, its effect in secure communications is not fully understood yet. In this work, an achievable scheme for the wiretap channel with generalized feedback -based on joint source-channel coding- is presented. This scheme recovers previous results, thus it can be seen as a generalization and unification of several results in the field. Additionally, the Gaussian wiretap channel with noisy feedback is analyzed, and the scheme achieves positive secrecy rates even in unfavorable situations where the eavesdropper experiences a much better channel than the legitimate user.
Behavioral and economic aspects of caries control

The aim was to determine the association between baseline factors, such as oral health-related behavior, attitudes, knowledge and beliefs in relation to caries increment during a randomized clinical trial (RCT). A further aim was to evaluate treatment costs and health outcomes during and after the RCT. In Pori Finland, 11to 12-year-old children with active initial caries lesion(s) participated in the RCT in 2001–05. The experimental group (n=250) received multiple measures for controlling caries. The control group (n=247) received standard dental care. In 2005–08, all received standard dental care. Regression analyses were used to study the associations between behavioral factors and caries increment. Cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted (trial period), and costs and health outcomes as well as dental service utilization were evaluated (post-trial period). In the experimental group, brushing teeth twice a day was indicative of developing no new caries lesions, whereas eating candy at least once a day, predicted new lesions. In the experimental and control groups, lack of concern about cavities and lack of knowledge about mother’s dental health predicted new caries lesions. The average incremental cost for averting one DMF surface was €34. The experimental regimen was more effective and more costly than the standard dental care. The total costs decreased year after year. The mean total cost per adolescent was lower and the clinical outcome was better among the former participants in the experimental group. The utilization of dental services was significantly more regular among the former participants in this group. It may be feasible to control caries more effectively by affecting toothbrushing, candy eating and oral health-related attitudes, as preventive procedures may be ineffective if those factors are not in order. It is important to discuss oral health-related topics in families, because this may improve the oral health-related behavior of children. Cost-effectiveness of regimen used for the experimental group may be improved by division of work or by selective reduction of preventive procedures. Well-timed caries control can decrease treatment cost and yield long-term improvement of dental health.
Efficient covering for top-k filtering in content-based publish/subscribe systems

We investigate the use of content-based publish/subscribe for data dissemination in large-scale applications with expressive filtering requirements. In particular, we focus on top-k subscription filtering, where a publication is delivered only to the k best ranked subscribers, as ordered using expressive semantics such as relevance, fairness, and diversity. The naive approach to perform filtering early at the publisher edge works only if complete knowledge of the subscriptions is available, which is not compatible with the well-established covering optimization in scalable content-based publish/subscribe systems. We propose an efficient rank-cover technique to reconcile top-k subscription filtering with covering. We extend the covering model to support top-k and describe a novel algorithm for forwarding subscriptions to publishers while maintaining correctness. We also establish a framework for supporting different types of ranking semantics and propose an implementation to support fairness. Finally, we compare our solutions to a baseline covering system and perform sensitivity analysis to demonstrate that our optimized rank-cover algorithm retains both covering and fairness while achieving properties advantageous to our targeted workloads. In a typical setting, our optimized solution is scalable, selects fairly, and provides over 81% of the covering benefit.
Comparison of physicochemical and functional properties of duck feet and bovine gelatins.

BACKGROUND Previous studies have indicated that duck feet are a rich source of gelatin extractable from avian sources. In this study, the physicochemical and functional properties of avian gelatin extracted from duck feet (DFG) with acetic acid were compared with those of commercial bovine gelatin (BG). RESULTS The yield of DFG obtained in this study was 7.01 ± 0.31%. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis indicated that the imino acid content was slightly lower for DFG compared with BG (P < 0.05). Differences in molecular size and amino acids between DFG and BG were also observed. The isoelectric points of DFG and BG were at pH 8 and 5 respectively, and the overall protein solubility of BG was higher than that of DFG. Gels prepared from BG exhibited higher bloom strength, viscosity and clarity and were darker in colour compared with DFG gels (P < 0.05). The gelling and melting points of BG were 21.8 and 29.47 °C respectively, while those of DFG were 20.5 and 27.8 °C respectively. BG exhibited slightly better emulsifying and foaming properties compared with DFG. CONCLUSION Although some differences between DFG and BG were observed, the disparities were small, which indicates that DFG could be exploited commercially as an alternative source of gelatin. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.
Global Deconvolutional Networks for Semantic Segmentation

Semantic image segmentation is a principal problem in computer vision, where the aim is to correctly classify each individual pixel of an image into a semantic label. Its widespread use in many areas, including medical imaging and autonomous driving, has fostered extensive research in recent years. Empirical improvements in tackling this task have primarily been motivated by successful exploitation of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) pre-trained for image classification and object recognition. However, the pixel-wise labelling with CNNs has its own unique challenges: (1) an accurate deconvolution, or upsampling, of low-resolution output into a higher-resolution segmentation mask and (2) an inclusion of global information, or context, within locally extracted features. To address these issues, we propose a novel architecture to conduct the equivalent of the deconvolution operation globally and acquire dense predictions. We demonstrate that it leads to improved performance of state-of-the-art semantic segmentation models on the PASCAL VOC 2012 benchmark, reaching 74.0% mean IU accuracy on the test set.
A pilot study on the randomization of inferior vena cava filter placement for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in high-risk trauma patients.

BACKGROUND Placement of prophylactic inferior vena cava filters (pIVCFs) for the prevention of pulmonary embolism (PE) in high-risk trauma patients (HRTPs) are widely practiced despite the lack of Level I data supporting this use. We report the 2-year interim analysis of the Filters in Trauma pilot study. METHODS This is a single institution, prospective randomized controlled pilot feasibility study in a Level I trauma center. HRTPs were identified for pIVCF placement by the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma guidelines. From November 2008 to November 2010, HRTPs were enrolled and randomized to either pIVCF or no pIVCF. All patients received pharmacologic prophylaxis when safe. Primary outcomes included feasibility objectives and secondary outcomes were incidence of PE, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and death. RESULTS Thirty-four of 38 enrolled patients were eligible for analysis. The baseline sociodemographic characteristics were balanced between the both groups. Results of the feasibility objectives included: time from admission to enrollment (mean, 47.4 hours ± 22.0 hours), time from enrollment to randomization (mean, 4.8 hours ± 9.1 hours), time from randomization to IVCF placement (mean, 16.9 hours ± 9.2 hours), adherence to weekly compression ultrasound within first month (IVCF group = 44.4%; non-IVCF group = 62.5%), and 1-month clinical follow-up (IVCF group = 83.3%; non-IVCF group = 100%). At 6-month follow-up, one PE in the nonfilter group and one DVT in the filter group had occurred. One non-PE-related death occurred in the filter group. Barriers to enrollment included inability to obtain informed consent due to patient refusal or no next of kin identified and delayed notification of eligibility status. CONCLUSION Our pilot study demonstrates for the first time that a randomized controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of pIVCFs in trauma patients is feasible. This pilot data will be used to inform the design of a multicenter randomized controlled trial to determine the incidence of PE and DVT in HRTPs receiving pIVCFs versus no pIVCF.
Characteristic analysis and design of a B14 rotary ultrasonic motor for a robot arm taking the contact mechanism into consideration

The ultrasonic motor (USM) has many merits for use in a robot arm application. Therefore, the disk-type traveling wave B14 rotary ultrasonic motor (RUSM) is proposed in this paper for that application. Up to the present time, the analysis and design of the USM have been almost always performed using rough analytic methods or using commercial analysis tools. As a result, it was impossible to achieve an exact analysis and design of the USM. In order to address this problem, this paper proposes the analysis and design methodology of the B14 RUSM using a numerical method (3-D FEM) combined with an analytic method taking the contact mechanism into consideration in a linear operation. This methodology is applicable to many other kinds of USMs that use similar mechanisms. In addition, the mechanical system and the driving circuit of the B14 RUSM are designed and prototyped. Finally, the proposed analysis and design methodology is validated by comparing its outcomes with the experimental data. Also, the appropriateness of the suggested RUSM for the application of a robot arm was verified
Elevated C-Reactive Protein: Another Component of the Atherothrombotic Profile of Abdominal Obesity

Recent studies have suggested that elevated plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are associated with the features of insulin resistance syndrome. In the present study, we have examined the contribution of body composition measured by hydrostatic weighing and of abdominal adipose tissue (AT) accumulation assessed by computed tomography to the variation in plasma CRP levels associated with atherogenic dyslipidemia of the insulin resistance syndrome in a sample of 159 men, aged 22 to 63 years, covering a wide range of adiposity (body mass index values from 21 to 41 kg/m2). Plasma CRP levels showed positive and significant correlations with body fat mass (r =0.41, P <0.0001), waist girth (r =0.37, P <0.0001), and visceral AT accumulation measured by computed tomography at L4 to L5 (r =0.28, P < 0.0003). Although CRP levels were associated with plasma insulin levels measured in the fasting state and after a 75-g oral glucose load, no significant correlations were found with plasma lipoprotein levels. Finally, comparison of body fatness, of abdominal fat accumulation, and of the features of the insulin resistance syndrome across quintiles of CRP revealed major differences in body fatness and in indices of abdominal AT accumulation between the lowest and the highest CRP quintiles, whereas no significant differences were found for variables of the plasma lipoprotein-lipid profile. These results suggest that obesity and abdominal AT accumulation are the critical correlates of elevated plasma CRP levels found in men with atherogenic dyslipidemia of the insulin resistance syndrome.
Correlation-Induced Synchronization of Oscillations in Olfactory Bulb Neurons

Oscillations are a common feature of odor-evoked and spontaneous activity in the olfactory system in vivo and in vitro and are thought to play an important role in information processing and memory in a variety of brain areas. Theoretical and experimental studies have described several mechanisms by which oscillations can be generated and synchronized. Here, we investigate the hypothesis that correlated noisy inputs are able to generate synchronous oscillations in olfactory bulb mitral cells in vitro. We consider several alternative mechanisms and conclude that olfactory bulb synchronous oscillations are likely to arise because of the response of uncoupled oscillating neurons to aperiodic but correlated inputs. This mechanism has been described theoretically, but we provide the first experimental evidence that such a mechanism may underlie synchronization in real neurons. In physiological experiments, we show that this mechanism can generate gamma-band oscillations in populations of olfactory bulb mitral cells. This mechanism synchronizes oscillatory firing by using shared fast fluctuations in stochastic inputs across neurons, without requiring any synaptic or electrical coupling. We discuss the properties and limitations of synchronization by this mechanism and suggest that it may underlie fast oscillations in many brain areas.
Candida pararugosa: First Reported Bloodstream Infection in an Adult

Candida pararugosa is a yeast that has been previously isolated in various human specimens. The first reported isolation was from human feces in 1998, with subsequent reports of positive cultures from the oral cavity where it was thought to represent colonization rather than true infection. Though it has been isolated from other human sites, its clinical significance and manifestations are poorly characterized. We report the case of a 39-year-old woman on parenteral hyperalimentation who developed post abdominal surgery sepsis and surgical wound necrotizing fasciitis. Candida pararugosa was isolated from two different blood cultures and the patient’s clinical status improved after initiation of therapy with micafungin. Though it was not clear whether sepsis was driven by the candidemia or the necrotizing fasciitis or both, this report appears to be the first case of Candida pararugosa bloodstream infection described in an adult.
The Tully-Fisher relation and its evolution with redshift in cosmological simulations of disc galaxy formation

We present predictions on the evolution of the Tully–Fisher (TF) relation with redshift, based on cosmological N-body/hydrodynamical simulations of disc galaxy formation and evolution. The simulations invoke star formation and stellar feedback, chemical evolution with non-instantaneous recycling, metallicity-dependent radiative cooling and effects of a metagalactic ultraviolet field, including simplified radiative transfer. At z= 0, the simulated and empirical TF relations are offset by about 0.4 mag (1σ) in the B and I bands. The origin of these offsets is somewhat unclear, but it may not necessarily be a problem of the simulations only. As to evolution, we find a brightening of the TF relation between z= 0 and 1 of about 0.85 mag in rest-frame B band, with a non-evolving slope. The brightening we predict is intermediate between the (still quite discrepant) observational estimates. This evolution is primarily a luminosity effect, while the stellar mass TF relation shows negligible evolution. The individual galaxies do gain stellar mass between z= 1 and 0, by a 50–100 per cent, but they also correspondingly increase their characteristic circular speed. As a consequence, individually they mainly evolve along the stellar mass TF relation, while the relation as such does not show any significant evolution.
Tracing the impact of the Andean uplift on Neotropical plant evolution

Recent phylogenetic studies have revealed the major role played by the uplift of the Andes in the extraordinary diversification of the Neotropical flora. These studies, however, have typically considered the Andean uplift as a single, time-limited event fostering the evolution of highland elements. This contrasts with geological reconstructions indicating that the uplift occurred in discrete periods from west to east and that it affected different regions at different times. We introduce an approach for integrating Andean tectonics with biogeographic reconstructions of Neotropical plants, using the coffee family (Rubiaceae) as a model group. The distribution of this family spans highland and montane habitats as well as tropical lowlands of Central and South America, thus offering a unique opportunity to study the influence of the Andean uplift on the entire Neotropical flora. Our results suggest that the Rubiaceae originated in the Paleotropics and used the boreotropical connection to reach South America. The biogeographic patterns found corroborate the existence of a long-lasting dispersal barrier between the Northern and Central Andes, the “Western Andean Portal. ” The uplift of the Eastern Cordillera ended this barrier, allowing dispersal of boreotropical lineages to the South, but gave rise to a huge wetland system (“Lake Pebas”) in western Amazonia that prevented in situ speciation and floristic dispersal between the Andes and Amazonia for at least 6 million years. Here, we provide evidence of these events in plants.
On the splitting of off-response in electroretinogram.

In the investigation of the electroretinogram a deformated response with certain humps or extra waves is sometimes met with. As Granit (4) summarized in his book, this phenomenon had been mainly studied in relation to the on-effect, first by Kuhne and Steiner and later by several other authors. Meservey and Chaffee (9) recognized the existence of two-staged b-wave in their experiments with the pure cone retina of both the horned toad and the chameleon. On the mixed retina of the frog many observations were also performed by Chaffee, Bovie and Hampson (1), Smit (10), Granit and Riddell (6) and others. The details of its character and origin, however, still remain a question. Important contributions to this problem were made by Fry and Bartley. (2), Granit and Munsterhjelm (5), and Therman (11). Fry and Bartley suggested that synchronized impulses in the optic nerve produce extra waves in the retinal response. The others analysed the multiple b-waves into two sorts from their character, one the oscillations caused by the leakage from the optic nerve, with numerous wavelets of rather high frequency, and the other the essential splitted b-wave belonging to the primary retinal response to light. Concerning the multiple off-response only a few reports have been made since Smit's description (10) of the phenomena. But Granit and Wrede (7) made an important contribution to the solution of the problem. They recognized also the existence of two sorts of wavelets in the multiple off-response and stated further concerning the essential diphasic d-wave that the first peak might be caused by the cones system while the second one by the rod. However, the character and the manner of appearance of the multiple essential d-response have not yet been systematically clarified in detail. The problem is very interesting and important, because, if the splitting peaks are concerned the kinds of receptor as stated above, these phenomena may offer some clue to the clarification of the mechanisms of color reception of the retina. The purpose of the present investigation is to make more sure the nature of the multiple off-response.
Understanding the role of the modality principle in multimedia learning environments

The modality principle states that low-experience learners more successfully understand information that uses narration rather than on-screen text. This is due to the idea that on-screen text may produce a cognitive overload if it is accompanied by other visual elements. Other studies provided additional data and support for the modality principle in multimedia learning environments. However, some recent studies began to show the modality principle's impact had certain parameters, and it was impacting various groups, conditions and environments differently. This study replicated Mayer and Moreno's studies on the modality principle (1998; 2006). Seventy-nine college students attending a Midwestern University in the USA participated in this study in 2015. The results of the study showed that the modality principle was not an effective strategy for the group of low-experience content users. The results showed the retention and transfer of knowledge was not as effective for students who viewed the narrated PowerPoint presentation. In fact, students who viewed the PowerPoint presentation that only included the on-screen text, had more effective retention and transfer of knowledge. Lay descriptionWhat is currently known about the modality principle: Learners are more successful with understanding information that uses narration than on-screen text specifically low-experience learners. This is due to the idea that on-screen text may produce a cognitive overload if it is accompanied by other visual elements. What this study adds to this subject matter: Carefully replicated Mayer and Moreno's studies on the modality principle with the intent to verify if the modality principle held with digital-aged students. Data collection took place in the participants' actual classroom (natural setting) in opposition to a lab-like setting. Implications of study findings for practitioners: Results counter the original study's findings specifically for low-experience learners, meaning on-screen text was more effective for transfer and retention of knowledge when compared with printed text and narration. When designing multimedia learning, instructional designers need to consider other elements (e.? g., presentation speed and learning times) that may be causing a change in the modality effect.
Statistical Challenges in the Design of Late-Stage Cancer Immunotherapy Studies

The past several years have witnessed a revival of interest in cancer immunology and immunotherapy owing to striking immunologic and clinical responses to immune-directed anticancer therapies and leading to the selection of “Cancer Immunotherapy” as the 2013 Breakthrough of the Year by Science. But statistical challenges exist at all phases of clinical development. In phase III trials of immunotherapies, survival curves have been shown to demonstrate delayed clinical effects, as well as long-term survival. These unique survival kinetics could lead to loss of statistical power and prolongation of study duration. Statistical assumptions that form the foundations for conventional statistical inference in the design and analysis of phase III trials, such as exponential survival and proportional hazards, require careful considerations. In this article, we describe how the unique characteristics of patient response to cancer immunotherapies will impact our strategies on statistical design and analysis in late-stage drug development. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(12); 1292–8. ©2015 AACR.