Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Improving mid-tone quality of variable-coefficient error diffusion using threshold modulation

In this paper, we describe the use of threshold modulation to remove the visual artifacts contained in the variable-coefficient error-diffusion algorithm. To obtain a suitable parameter set for the threshold modulation, a cost function used for the search of optimal parameters is designed. An optimal diffusion parameter set, as well as the corresponding threshold modulation strength values, is thus obtained. Experiments over this new set of parameters show that, compared with the original variable-coefficient error-diffusion algorithm, threshold modulation can remove visual anomalies more effectively. The result of the new algorithm is an artifact-free halftoning in the full range of intensities. Fourier analysis of the experimental results further support this conclusion.
Endobronchial Ultrasonography with a Guide Sheath for Pure or Mixed Ground-Glass Opacity Lesions

Background: Ground-glass opacity (GGO) lesions are difficult to diagnose by transbronchial biopsy (TBB). Objectives: We attempted to diagnose solitary peripheral GGO predominant-type lesions by TBB using endobronchial ultrasonography with a guide sheath (EBUS-GS) under X-ray fluoroscopic guidance, and to evaluate several factors associated with diagnostic yield. Methods: The medical records of 67 patients with GGO predominant-type lesions who underwent TBB using EBUS-GS under X-ray fluoroscopic guidance were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Of the 67 lesions, 38 (57%) were successfully diagnosed by EBUS-GS (5/11 pure GGO lesions and 33/56 mixed GGO lesions). The diagnosable lesions were significantly larger than the nondiagnosable lesions (24 vs. 17 mm, respectively; p < 0.01). Regarding the diagnostic yield by signs on computed tomography, the lesions with a bronchus leading directly to a lesion had a significantly higher diagnostic yield than the others (p < 0.05). When GGO lesions were confirmed under X-ray fluoroscopic guidance, the diagnostic yield was 79% (vs. 40% in lesions not visible on X-ray fluoroscopy; p < 0.05). Conclusions: EBUS-GS is a useful and valuable diagnostic modality, even for GGO predominant-type lesions located at the lung periphery.
Cutaneous adverse reactions to hydroxyurea in patients with sickle cell disease.

BACKGROUND Treatment with hydroxyurea may alleviate the symptoms of sickle cell disease (SCD). Because treatment with hydroxyurea may be responsible for several cutaneous side effects and is often lifelong in patients with SCD, we conducted this study to evaluate the risk of cutaneous adverse reactions in SCD patients treated with hydroxyurea. OBSERVATIONS Seventeen adult patients with SCD treated with hydroxyurea at one institution were examined by a dermatologist. Hydroxyurea was given for a mean of 3.04 years (range, 0.42-6.5 years). None of the patients had skin cancer, but 5 (29%) had disabling hydroxyurea-induced leg ulcers. Four of these 5 patients had a previous history of SCD ulcer, compared with none of the 12 patients without hydroxyurea-induced leg ulcers (P<.05). The mean age of patients with induced ulcers was 35.8 years and for those without ulcers was 23.5 years (P<.01). CONCLUSIONS Our rate of hydroxyurea-induced leg ulcers (29%) is higher than that reported for patients with myeloproliferative syndromes (9%). In addition, use of hydroxyurea has induced ulcers mainly in patients with previous SCD ulcers, suggesting that hydroxyurea could act in conjunction with other vascular abnormalities. Careful attention should be required when giving hydroxyurea to patients with SCD with previous ulcers as well as in older patients with SCD.
Adherence with Electronic Monitoring and Symptoms in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Objective The primary aim of this study was to compare electronic monitoring with other measures of adherence to Osmotic-controlled Release Oral delivery System methylphenidate in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The secondary aim was to analyze the relationships between adherence and clinical factors, including ADHD symptoms. Methods Thirty-nine children diagnosed with ADHD were monitored for adherence to medication over the course of eight weeks. Medication adherence was assessed using the Medication Event Monitoring System (MEMS), which is a bottle cap with a microprocessor that records all instances and times that the bottle is opened; patient self-report; clinician rating; and pill count. Information, including demographic and clinical characteristics, symptom rating scale, and psychological test results, were also collected. The relationships between adherence and clinical factors, including ADHD rating scores of baseline and of the changes, were assessed. Results The rate of non-adherence measured by the MEMS was found to be 46.2%, which was considerably higher than those of the patient self-report (17.9%), clinician rating (31.7%), and pill count (12.8%) of non-adherence. The rate of adherence measured by the MEMS was not significantly associated with baseline symptom severity or symptom changes over the eight weeks, although non-adherent group showed more severe baseline symptoms and inferior improvement. Conclusion Adherence as measured by the MEMS showed a discrepancy with other measures of adherence in patients with ADHD. The symptom severity and level of improvement were not related to adherence with MEMS. Further studies are needed to evaluate the variables that may impact medication adherence in children with ADHD.
SEARCHING FOR BINARY Y DWARFS WITH THE GEMINI MULTI-CONJUGATE ADAPTIVE OPTICS SYSTEM (GeMS)

The NASA Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE) has discovered almost all the known members of the new class of Y-type brown dwarfs. Most of these Y dwarfs have been identified as isolated objects in the field. It is known that binaries with L- and T-type brown dwarf primaries are less prevalent than either M-dwarf or solar-type primaries, they tend to have smaller separations and are more frequently detected in near-equal mass configurations. The binary statistics for Y-type brown dwarfs, however, are sparse, and so it is unclear if the same trends that hold for L- and T-type brown dwarfs also hold for Y-type ones. In addition, the detection of binary companions to very cool Y dwarfs may well be the best means available for discovering even colder objects. We present results for binary properties of a sample of five WISE Y dwarfs with the Gemini Multi-Conjugate Adaptive Optics System. We find no evidence for binary companions in these data, which suggests these systems are not equal-luminosity (or equal-mass) binaries with separations larger than ∼0.5–1.9 AU. For equal-mass binaries at an age of 5 Gyr, we find that the binary binding energies ruled out by our observations (i.e., 1042 erg) are consistent with those observed in previous studies of hotter ultra-cool dwarfs.
Effect on Quality Characteristics of Tomatoes Grown Under Well-Watered and Drought Stress Conditions

Tomatoes are one of the most nutritionally and economically important crops in New Zealand and around the world. Tomatoes require large amounts of water to grow well and are adversely affected by drought stress. However, few studies have evaluated the physicochemical characteristics of commercial tomatoes grown under water stress conditions. Four tomato cultivars (Incas, Marmande, Scoresby Dwarf, and Window Box Red) were grown in a greenhouse under well-watered and drought stress conditions and the tomatoes were harvested when ripe. The physicochemical properties and antioxidant contents of the fruits were compared. There were significant differences between cultivars in quality characteristics—such as dry matter, total soluble solids, and pH parameters—but there were no differences in the quality characteristics between the two treatments of the fruits (p > 0.05); however, there were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the antioxidant compositions (lycopene, total phenolics, and flavonoids) and antioxidant activities (DPPH and ABTS) of the fruits of both cultivars and treatments. Overall, these results indicated that tomatoes increased their bioactive compounds without changing any quality characteristics when exposed to water stress conditions.
Single-molecule height measurements on microsomal cytochrome P450 in nanometer-scale phospholipid bilayer disks

The architecture of membrane proteins in their native environment of the phospholipid bilayer is critical for understanding physiological function, but has been difficult to realize experimentally. In this communication we describe the incorporation of a membrane-anchored protein into a supported phospholipid bilayer. Cytochrome P450 2B4 solubilized and purified from the hepatic endoplasmic reticulum was incorporated into phospholipid bilayer nanostructures and oriented on a surface for visualization by atomic force microscopy. Individual P450 molecules were observed protruding from the bilayer surface. Problems associated with deformation of the protein by the atomic force microscopy probe were avoided by analyzing force-dependent height measurements to quantitate the height of the protein above the bilayer surface. Measurements of the atomic force microscopy cantilever deflection as a function of probe-sample separation reveal that the top of the P450 opposite the N-terminal membrane anchor region sits 3.5 nanometers above the phospholipid–water boundary. Models of the orientation of the enzyme are presented and discussed in relation to membrane interactions and interaction with cytochrome P450 reductase.
Vasoprotective Effects of Urocortin 1 against Atherosclerosis In Vitro and In Vivo

Aim Atherosclerosis is the complex lesion that consists of endothelial inflammation, macrophage foam cell formation, vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration and proliferation, and extracellular matrix production. Human urocortin 1 (Ucn1), a 40-amino acid peptide member of the corticotrophin-releasing factor/urotensin I family, has potent cardiovascular protective effects. This peptide induces potent and long-lasting hypotension and coronary vasodilation. However, the relationship of Ucn1 with atherosclerosis remains unclear. The present study was performed to clarify the effects of Ucn1 on atherosclerosis. Methods We assessed the effects of Ucn1 on the inflammatory response and proliferation of human endothelial cells (ECs), human macrophage foam cell formation, migration and proliferation of human VSMCs, extracellular matrix expression in VSMCs, and the development of atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E-deficient (Apoe −/−) mice. Results Ucn1 significantly suppressed cell proliferation without inducing apoptosis, and lipopolysaccharide-induced up-regulation of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 in human ECs. Ucn1 significantly reduced oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced foam cell formation with a significant down-regulation of CD36 and acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase 1 in human monocyte-derived macrophages. Ucn1 significantly suppressed the migration and proliferation of human VSMCs and increased the activities of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and MMP9 in human VSMCs. Intraperitoneal injection of Ucn1 into Apoe −/− mice for 4 weeks significantly retarded the development of aortic atherosclerotic lesions. Conclusions This study provided the first evidence that Ucn1 prevents the development of atherosclerosis by suppressing EC inflammatory response and proliferation, macrophage foam cell formation, and VSMC migration and proliferation. Thus, Ucn1 could serve as a novel therapeutic target for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.
The SLC19A1 80G>A polymorphism is not associated with male infertility

Previous studies have revealed that genetic factors may be involved in regulating folate turnover, e.g. methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase polymorphism in the development of male infertility. Folate transporter, encoded by the SLC19A1 gene, commonly referred to as reduced folate carrier (RFC) is a transmembrane protein, which transfers hydrophilic folates across the cell membrane. It was hypothesized that common polymorphism within the SLC19A1 gene (rs1051266:G>A, 80G>A) may alter RFC function. The aim of this study was to investigate a potential association between the SLC19A1 80G>A polymorphism and male infertility in a case–control study. The SLC19A1 80G>A polymorphism was determined by means of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) assay in 213 infertile Caucasian men and 226 ethnically matched controls. The distribution of SLC19A1 genotypes in the infertile men was as follows: GG 26.8%, GA 51.2%, AA 22.1% and in fertile men: GG 24.8%, GA 50.4%, AA 24.8%, and was comparable in the both the evaluated groups. Odds ratios (95% confidence interval, CI): 0.90 (0.59–1.38) and 0.88 (0.56–1.36) for dominant and recessive models remained non-significant, also after adjustment for age: 0.89 (0.57–1.37) and 0.80 (0.51–1.25), respectively. Our study demonstrated that polymorphism 80G>A of the SLC19A1 gene is not associated with male infertility.
Effectiveness of Global Analysis in Strict Independence-Based Automatic Parallelization

This paper presents a study of the effectiveness of global analysis in the parallelization of logic programs using strict independence. A number of well-known approximation domains are selected and tlieir usefulness for the application in hand is explained. Also, methods for using the information provided by such domains to improve parallelization are proposed. Local and global analyses are built using these domains and such analyses are embedded in a complete parallelizing compiler. Then, the performance of the domains (and the system in general) is assessed for this application through a number of experiments. We argue that the results offer significant insight into the characteristics of these domains, the demands of the application, and the tradeoffs involved.
Mutational analysis of the phototransduction pathway of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

Chlamydomonas has two photobehavioral responses, phototaxis and photoshock. Rhodopsin is the photoreceptor for these responses and the signal transduction process involves transmembrane Ca2+ fluxes. This causes transient changes in flagellar beating, ultimately resulting in phototaxis or photoshock. To identify components that make up this signal transduction pathway, we generated nonphototactic strains by insertional mutagenesis. Seven new phototaxis genes were identified (ptx2-ptx8); alleles of six of these are tagged by the transforming DNA and therefore should be easily cloned. To order the mutants in the pathway, we characterized them electrophysiologically, behaviorally, and structurally, ptx5, ptx6, and ptx7 have normal light-induced photoreceptor currents (PRC) and flagellar currents (FC) but their pattern of swimming does not change in the normal manner when the intraflagellar Ca2+ concentration is decreased, suggesting that they have defects in the ability of their axonemes to respond to changes in Ca2+ concentration. ptx2 and ptx8 lack the FC but have normal PRCs, suggesting that they are defective in the flagellar Ca2+ channel or some factor that regulates it. ptx4 mutants have multiple eye-spots. ptx3 mutants are defective in a component essential for phototaxis but bypassed during photoshock; this component appears to be located downstream of the PRC but upstream of the axoneme.
Thermoregulatory responses of middle-aged and young men during dry-heat acclimation.

Thermoregulatory responses during heat acclimation were compared between nine young (mean age 21.2 yr) and nine middle-aged men (mean age 46.4 yr) who were matched (P greater than 0.05) for body weight, surface area, surface area-to-weight ratio, percent body fat, and maximal aerobic power. After evaluation in a comfortable environment (22 degrees C, 50% relative humidity), the men were heat acclimated by treadmill walking (1.56 m/s, 5% grade) for two 50-min exercise bouts separated by 10 min of rest for 10 consecutive days in a hot dry (49 degrees C ambient temperature, 20% relative humidity) environment. During the first day of heat exposure performance time was 27 min longer (P less than 0.05) for the middle-aged men, whereas final rectal and skin temperatures and heart rate were lower, and final total body sweat loss was higher (P less than 0.05) compared with the young men. These thermoregulatory advantages for the middle-aged men persisted for the first few days of exercise-heat acclimation (P less than 0.05). After acclimation no thermoregulatory or performance time differences were observed between groups (P greater than 0.05). Sweating sensitivity, esophageal temperature at sweating onset, and the sweating onset time did not differ (P greater than 0.05) between groups either pre- or postacclimatization. Plasma osmolality and sodium concentration were slightly lower for the young men both pre- and postacclimatization; however, both groups had a similar percent change in plasma volume from rest to exercise during these tests. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Second point: animal tumor models and their relevance to human tumor immunology.

Under the title given to these exchanges, we have been required to explore immunological analogies between clinical cancer and the animal models available for investigation. My article focused attention on a class of model (naturally arising tumors) that has been relatively neglected for reasons that have nothing to do with scientific strategy. Yet it is this class of tumor for which the analogy most relevant to our underlying concern is most solidly sustained: their unresponsiveness to preventive or therapeutic immunological measures. I am dismayed that Herberman is not inclined to embrace this cogent analogy but seems more concerned with vindicating the use of those classes of model by which, as is now widely acknowledged, we have been so long misled. The question arises as to why any discussion of the clinical prospects of applied tumor immunology should polarize the discussants in the way exploited by editorial encouragement of these "ping-pong" contributions. There can be few paramedical topics that are so subject to bipartite discussion--between believers, defenders, and optimists on one side, and critics or skeptics on the other. My conviction is that this proclivity for confrontation betrays a conflict between emotional disposition and scientific judgment. The concept of natural or induced host control of malignant disease has persisted for over 180 years (11) and has survived the many transformations that have occurred over that time of the experimental facilities available for its examination. (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Detecting, localizing, and tracking an unknown number of moving targets using a team of mobile robots

Target tracking is a fundamental problem in robotics research and has been the subject of detailed studies over the years. In this paper, we generate a data-driven target model from a real-world dataset of taxi motions. This model includes target motion, appearance, and disappearance from the search area. Using this target model, we introduce a new formulation of the mobile target tracking problem based on the mathematical concept of random finite sets. This formulation allows for tracking an unknown and dynamic number of mobile targets with a team of robots. We show how to employ the probability hypothesis density filter to simultaneously estimate the number of targets and their positions. Next, we present a greedy algorithm for assigning trajectories to the robots to allow them to actively track the targets. We prove that the greedy algorithm is a two-approximation for maximizing submodular tracking objective functions. We examine two such functions: the mutual information between the estimated target positions and future measurements from the robots and a new objective that maximizes the expected number of targets detected by the robot team. We provide extensive simulation evaluations to validate the performance of our data-driven motion model and to compare the behavior and tracking performance of robots using our objective functions.
Boundary Film Formation by Viscosity Index Improvers

Ultrathin film interferometry has been used to measure the film-forming properties of a range of viscosity index improver (VII) solutions in rolling, concentrated contacts. It has been shown that some VIIs form boundary lubricating films of thickness 10 to 30 nm in contacts. These films result from the presence of highly concentrated and thus very viscous layers of polymer solution formed on the two rubbing solid surfaces by polymer adsorption. These boundary films are formed only by some types of VII and can persist up to temperatures in excess of 120°C. The possible implications of this type of boundary lubrication are discussed. Presented as a Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers paper at the STLE/ASME Tribology Conference in Kissimmee, Florida, October 8–11, 1995
Using deep neural networks to improve proficiency assessment for children English language learners

We investigated the use of context-dependent deep neural network hidden Markov models, or CD-DNN-HMMs, to improve speech recognition performance for a better assessment of children English language learners (ELLs). The ELL data used in the present study was obtained from a large language assessment project administered in schools in a U.S. state. Our DNN-based speech recognition system, built using rectiﬁed linear units (ReLU), greatly outperformed recognition accuracy of Gaussian mixture models (GMM)-HMMs, even when the latter models were trained with eight times more data. Large improvement was observed for cases of noisy and/or unclear responses, which are common in ELL children speech. We further explored the use of content and manner-of-speaking features, derived from the speech recognizer output, for estimating spoken English proﬁciency levels. Experimental results show that the DNN-based recognition approach achieved 31% relative WER reduction when compared to GMM-HMMs. This further improved the quality of the extracted features and ﬁnal spoken English proﬁciency scores, and increased overall automatic assessment performance to the human performance level, for various open-ended spoken language tasks.
Diversity and plasticity in signaling pathways that regulate smooth muscle responsiveness: Paradigms and paradoxes for the myosin phosphatase, the master regulator of smooth muscle contraction

A hallmark of smooth muscle cells is their ability to adapt their functions to meet temporal and chronic fluctuations in their demands. These functions include force development and growth. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the functional plasticity of smooth muscles, the major constituent of organ walls, is fundamental to elucidating pathophysiological rationales of failures of organ functions. Also, the knowledge is expected to facilitate devising innovative strategies that more precisely monitor and normalize organ functions by targeting individual smooth muscles. Evidence has established a current paradigm that the myosin light chain phosphatase (MLCP) is a master regulator of smooth muscle responsiveness to stimuli. Cellular MLCP activity is negatively and positively regulated in response to G-protein activation and cAMP/cGMP production, respectively, through the MYPT1 regulatory subunit and an endogenous inhibitor protein named CPI-17. In this article we review the outcomes from two decade of research on the CPI-17 signaling and discuss emerging paradoxes in the view of signaling pathways regulating smooth muscle functions through MLCP.