Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
How to recycle random bits

It is shown that modified versions of the linear congruential generator and the shift register generator are provably good for amplifying the correctness of a probabilistic algorithm. More precisely, if r random bits are needed for a BPP algorithm to be correct with probability at least 2/3, then O(r+k/sup 2/) bits are needed to improve this probability to 1-2/sup -k/. A different pseudorandom generator that is optimal, up to a constant factor, in this regard is also presented. It uses only O(r+k) bits to improve the probability to 1-2/sup -k/. This generator is based on random walks on expanders. The results do not depend on any unproven assumptions. It is shown that the modified versions of the shift register and linear congruential generators can be used to sample from distributions using, in the limit, the information-theoretic lower bound on random bits. <<ETX>>
Burn wound healing property of Cocos nucifera: An appraisal

Objectives: The study was undertaken to evaluate the burn wound healing property of oil of Cocos nucifera and to compare the effect of the combination of oil of Cocos nucifera and silver sulphadiazine with silver sulphadiazine alone. Materials and Methods: Partial thickness burn wounds were inflicted upon four groups of six rats each. Group I was assigned as control, Group II received the standard silver sulphadiazine. Group III was given pure oil of Cocos nucifera , and Group IV received the combination of the oil and the standard. The parameters observed were epithelialization period and percentage of wound contraction. Results: It was noted that there was significant improvement in burn wound contraction in the group treated with the combination of Cocos nucifera and silver sulphadiazine. The period of epithelialization also decreased significantly in groups III and IV. Conclusion: It is concluded that oil of Cocos nucifera is an effective burn wound healing agent.
3D Head Pose Estimation from Multiple Distant Views

3D head pose estimation constitutes a special problem of human motion modeling. An accurate and robust solution to this problem is of particular interest, because the 3D head pose of a human conveys important information on his/her behavior. Significant advances have been achieved in human head pose estimation for relatively close-range images, but the related available methods are not directly applicable in wider-range imaging conditions. The proposed method is overviewed in Fig. 1. The visual hull of a person is obtained from images acquired synchronously from multiple viewpoints. While moving, the person’s head is tracked in 3D employing a variant of the Mean-Shift algorithm and a spherical kernel. The texture on the surface of the hull is collected from multiple views and projected on a hypothetical sphere S that is concentric to the person’s head. This gives rise to spherical image Is within which face detection is simplified, because exactly one frontal face is guaranteed to appear in it at a known spatial scale.
New Tight Upper-Bounds on the Error Probability of Multilevel Coded Modulation Schemes

This paper presents two theoretical upper-bounds on the word and bit error probabilities of individual levels of multilevel coded modulation schemes with equal error protection and multistage decoding. Lattice-type or PSK modulation with Ungerboeck partitioning over an AWGN channel is assumed. Inspired by both Imai's [1] and Wachsmann's [2] channel models, a new model is introduced, yielding the expression of two upperbounds tighter than those known so far [3][4]. The tightness of the bounds is illustrated with simulation results and compared to existing bounds. Finally, a method for approximating the simulated performance of individual levels is discussed.
Geographic variation of whistles of the striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba) within the Mediterranean Sea.

The striped dolphin is a cosmopolitan species distributed worldwide. Morphological and genetic studies strongly suggest that the Mediterranean and eastern North Atlantic populations are isolated from each other. The Mediterranean population is considered a distinct conservation unit by International Union for the Conservation of Nature experts, classified as "vulnerable. " This study describes the geographical variation of the striped dolphin whistles within the Mediterranean Sea. Recordings were collected from 1996 to 2003 throughout the basin, employing multiple platforms. Thirty-seven independent sightings with acoustic data collection were made, and 599 whistles were extracted and considered for statistical analysis. Whistle analysis enabled the identification of sub-populations of striped dolphins within the Mediterranean Sea. The acoustic diversity observed reflects the genetic differences recently found among striped dolphins inhabiting different Mediterranean regions. The results of this study support the hypothesis that gene flow reduction plays an important role in determining variation in whistle duration and frequency parameters, while ecological and social factors influence parameters of the modulation domains. The ability to acoustically identify distinct geographic sub-populations could provide a useful tool for the management of this protected species.
Spatial and Genetic Epidemiology of Hookworm in a Rural Community in Uganda

There are remarkably few contemporary, population-based studies of intestinal nematode infection for sub-Saharan Africa. This paper presents a comprehensive epidemiological analysis of hookworm infection intensity in a rural Ugandan community. Demographic, kinship, socioeconomic and environmental data were collected for 1,803 individuals aged six months to 85 years in 341 households in a cross-sectional community survey. Hookworm infection was assessed by faecal egg count. Spatial variation in the intensity of infection was assessed using a Bayesian negative binomial spatial regression model and the proportion of variation explained by host additive genetics (heritability) and common domestic environment was estimated using genetic variance component analysis. Overall, the prevalence of hookworm was 39.3%, with the majority of infections (87.7%) of light intensity (≤1000 eggs per gram faeces). Intensity was higher among older individuals and was associated with treatment history with anthelmintics, walking barefoot outside the home, living in a household with a mud floor and education level of the household head. Infection intensity also exhibited significant household and spatial clustering: the range of spatial correlation was estimated to be 82 m and was reduced by a half over a distance of 19 m. Heritability of hookworm egg count was 11.2%, whilst the percentage of variance explained by unidentified domestic effects was 17.8%. In conclusion, we suggest that host genetic relatedness is not a major determinant of infection intensity in this community, with exposure-related factors playing a greater role.
A stage model of knowledge management: an empirical investigation of process and effectiveness

Knowledge management (KM) is now widely recognized to be important to the success or failure of business management. Seeking to better understand the determinants of the evolution of KM, this study focuses on two main problems: (1) whether firms change their KM processes over time to improve KM effectiveness as well as develop their KM practices, and (2) whether socio-technical support results in more mature KM practices. This study draws on the previous literature to identify key dimensions of KM process (knowledge acquisition, knowledge conversion, knowledge application and knowledge protection), KM effectiveness (individual-level and organizational-level KM effectiveness) and socio-technical support (organizational support and information technology diffusion). The evolution of these dimensions is studied in the form of a stage model of KM that includes initiation, development, and mature stages. Data gathered from 141 senior executives in large Taiwanese organizations were employed to test the propositions. The results show that different stages of KM evolution can be distinguished across dimensions of KM process, KM effectiveness, and socio-technical support. Implications for organizations are also discussed.
Jasmonic acid control of GLABRA3 links inducible defense and trichome patterning in Arabidopsis

Once attacked by herbivores, plants regenerate new leaves with increased trichome density as an inducible defense. Trichomes are specified from neighboring epidermal cells through local cell-cell interactions in the leaf primordia. However, the molecular mechanism of how herbivore-induced damage at older leaves remodels the pattern of trichome fate specification at newly forming leaves is largely unknown. In this study, we show that mutations in either the biosynthetic or signaling pathway of jasmonates (JAs), long-distance wound signals, abolish the wound-induced formation of trichomes. To identify the factors linking JA signaling to trichome fate specification, we isolated a novel class of mutants, unarmed (urm), which lack trichome induction but show otherwise normal responses to JAs. URM9 encodes an Importin β family protein, and URM23 is identical to TRANSPARENT TESTA GLABRA1 (TTG1), the product of which interacts with the bHLH transcription factor GLABRA3 (GL3). Loss of either URM9 or URM23 disrupts the subnuclear localization of GL3, thus implicating GL3 in trichome induction. The expression of GL3 was enhanced by JA treatment prior to trichome initiation. Genetic analysis of multiple trichome mutants shows that GL3, in concert with the R2R3-Myb transcription factor GLABRA1 (GL1), promotes trichome fate in response to JA in a dosage-dependent manner. These results indicate that GL3 is a key transcription factor of wound-induced trichome formation acting downstream of JA signaling in Arabidopsis.
ATM signals to TSC2 in the cytoplasm to regulate mTORC1 in response to ROS

Ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) is a cellular damage sensor that coordinates the cell cycle with damage-response checkpoints and DNA repair to preserve genomic integrity. However, ATM also has been implicated in metabolic regulation, and ATM deficiency is associated with elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS has a central role in many physiological and pathophysiological processes including inflammation and chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis and cancer, underscoring the importance of cellular pathways involved in redox homeostasis. We have identified a cytoplasmic function for ATM that participates in the cellular damage response to ROS. We show that in response to elevated ROS, ATM activates the TSC2 tumor suppressor via the LKB1/AMPK metabolic pathway in the cytoplasm to repress mTORC1 and induce autophagy. Importantly, elevated ROS and dysregulation of mTORC1 in ATM-deficient cells is inhibited by rapamycin, which also rescues lymphomagenesis in Atm-deficient mice. Our results identify a cytoplasmic pathway for ROS-induced ATM activation of TSC2 to regulate mTORC1 signaling and autophagy, identifying an integration node for the cellular damage response with key pathways involved in metabolism, protein synthesis, and cell survival.
ATM, radiation, and the risk of second primary breast cancer

Abstract Purpose: It was first suggested more than 40 years ago that heterozygous carriers for the human autosomal recessive disorder Ataxia-Telangiectasia (A-T) might also be at increased risk for cancer. Subsequent studies have identified the responsible gene, Ataxia-Telangiectasia Mutated (ATM), characterized genetic variation at this locus in A-T and a variety of different cancers, and described the functions of the ATM protein with regard to cellular DNA damage responses. However, an overall model of how ATM contributes to cancer risk, and in particular, the role of DNA damage in this process, remains lacking. This review considers these questions in the context of contralateral breast cancer (CBC). Conclusions: Heterozygous carriers of loss of function mutations in ATM that are A-T causing, are at increased risk of breast cancer. However, examination of a range of genetic variants, both rare and common, across multiple cancers, suggests that ATM may have additional effects on cancer risk that are allele-dependent. In the case of CBC, selected common alleles at ATM are associated with a reduced incidence of CBC, while other rare and predicted deleterious variants may act jointly with radiation exposure to increase risk. Further studies that characterize germline and somatic ATM mutations in breast cancer and relate the detected genetic changes to functional outcomes, particularly with regard to radiation responses, are needed to gain a complete picture of the complex relationship between ATM, radiation and breast cancer.
Risk factors associated with challenging behaviour in people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities.

BACKGROUND Several factors that correlate with the onset or continuation of challenging behaviour are mentioned in research. These are factors related to persons with ID, but also to direct support professionals and the context. Although many of these factors seem to affect the onset or continuation of challenging behaviour in people with ID in general, results are often inconclusive and have little focus on people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD). The present study aimed to assess the extent to which known factors related to challenging behaviour are also applicable to a group of 198 people with PIMD. METHOD To determine which factors were associated with challenging behaviour, univariate analyses on associations between known risk factors and challenging behaviour were conducted. The associated factors were then subject to a regression analysis to determine the extent to which they explain the prevalence of challenging behaviour and can thus be seen as factors associated with challenging behaviour. RESULTS The results show that, in particular, factors concerning the personal characteristics of people with PIMD, such as sleeping problems and auditory problems, were related to the variance in mean frequency of challenging behaviour. Only one factor related to the direct support professionals was found: when these professionals had been offered training on the subject of challenging behaviour in people with intellectual disabilities in general, they identified significantly more withdrawn behaviour. We found no contextual factors related to challenging behaviour. CONCLUSION These findings are generally consistent with findings reported in other studies, especially concerning the personal characteristics of people with PIMD. Further research should focus on the effects of providing safe auditory environments and appropriate sleep schedules for people with PIMD on the occurrence of challenging behaviour.
The impact of stress on body function: A review

Any intrinsic or extrinsic stimulus that evokes a biological response is known as stress. The compensatory responses to these stresses are known as stress responses. Based on the type, timing and severity of the applied stimulus, stress can exert various actions on the body ranging from alterations in homeostasis to life-threatening effects and death. In many cases, the pathophysiological complications of disease arise from stress and the subjects exposed to stress, e.g. those that work or live in stressful environments, have a higher likelihood of many disorders. Stress can be either a triggering or aggravating factor for many diseases and pathological conditions. In this study, we have reviewed some of the major effects of stress on the primary physiological systems of humans.
What prevents the intravenous to oral antibiotic switch? A qualitative study of hospital doctors' accounts of what influences their clinical practice.

OBJECTIVES Escalating antimicrobial resistance worldwide necessitates urgent optimization of antimicrobial prescribing to preserve antibiotics for future generations. Early intravenous (iv) to oral switch campaigns are one strategy that hospital-based antimicrobial stewardship programmes can incorporate to minimize inappropriate antibiotic use. Yet, iv antibiotics continue to be offered for longer than is clinically indicated, increasing hospital length of stay, increasing costs and placing patients at risk (e.g. cannula-related infections). This study aims to identify why this inappropriate prescribing trend continues. METHODS Twenty doctors (9 females and 11 males) working at a teaching hospital in north-east England participated in semi-structured interviews about their experiences of antibiotic use. NVivo10 software was used to conduct a thematic content analysis of the full interview transcripts driven by the framework approach. Results are reported according to COREQ guidelines. RESULTS Decisions around the choice of iv over oral antibiotics were influenced by three key issues: (i) consumerism, i.e. participants were concerned about the risk of litigation or complaints if patient expectations were not met; (ii) hierarchy of the medical team structure limited opportunities for de-escalation of antibiotics; and (iii) iv antibiotics were perceived as more potent and having significant mythical qualities, which participants acknowledged were not necessarily evidence based. CONCLUSIONS The iv to oral switch interventions should tailor strategies to demystify iv versus oral antibiotic efficacy, engage consumers around the negative effects of iv antibiotic overuse and examine strategies to streamline team decision-making. Addressing these issues has the potential to reduce inappropriate antibiotic use and resistance.
53BP1 exchanges slowly at the sites of DNA damage and appears to require RNA for its association with chromatin

53BP1 protein is re-localized to the sites of DNA damage after ionizing radiation (IR) and is involved in DNA-damage-checkpoint signal transduction. We examined the dynamics of GFP-53BP1 in living cells. The protein starts to accumulate at the sites of DNA damage 2-3 minutes after damage induction. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching experiments showed that GFP-53BP1 is highly mobile in non-irradiated cells. Upon binding to the IR-induced nuclear foci, the mobility of 53BP1 reduces greatly. The minimum (M) domain of 53BP1 essential for targeting to IR induced foci consists of residues 1220-1703. GFP-M protein forms foci in mouse embryonic fibroblast cells lacking functional endogenous 53BP1. The M domain contains a tandem repeat of Tudor motifs and an arginine- and glycine-rich domain (RG stretch), which are often found in proteins involved in RNA metabolism, the former being essential for targeting. RNase A treatment dissociates 53BP1 from IR-induced foci. In HeLa cells, dissociation of the M domain without the RG stretch by RNase A treatment can be restored by re-addition of nuclear RNA in the early stages of post-irradiation. 53BP1 immunoprecipitates contain some RNA molecules. Our results suggest a possible involvement of RNA in the binding of 53BP1 to chromatin damaged by IR.
Human Bocavirus Infection, Canada

Human Bocavirus was detected in 18 (1.5%) of 1,209 respiratory specimens collected in 2003 and 2004 in Canada. The main symptoms of affected patients were cough (78%), fever (67%), and sore throat (44%). Nine patients were hospitalized; of these, 8 (89%) were <5 years of age.
Schwann cell migration is integrin‐dependent and inhibited by astrocyte‐produced aggrecan

Schwann cells transplantation has considerable promise in spinal cord trauma to bridge the site of injury and for remyelination in demyelinating conditions. They support axonal regeneration and sprouting by secreting growth factors and providing a permissive surface and matrix molecules while shielding axons from the inhibitory environment of the central nervous system. However, following transplantation Schwann cells show limited migratory ability and they are unable to intermingle with the host astrocytes. This in turn leads to formation of a sharp boundary and an abrupt transition between the Schwann cell graft and the host tissue astrocytes, therefore preventing regenerating axons from exiting the graft. The objective of this study was to identify inhibitory elements on astrocytes involved in restricting Schwann cell migration. Using in vitro assays of cell migration, we show that aggrecan produced by astrocytes is involved in the inhibition of Schwann cell motility on astrocytic monolayers. Knockdown of this proteoglycan in astrocytes using RNAi or digestion of glycosaminglycan chains on aggrecan improves Schwann cell migration. We further show aggrecan mediates its effect by disruption of integrin function in Schwann cells, and that the inhibitory effects of aggrecan can overcome by activation of Schwann cell integrins. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of Specific Inhibitors of Trypanosoma cruzi Malic Enzyme Isoforms by Target-Based HTS

Trypanosoma cruzi is the causative agent of Chagas disease. The lack of an efficient and safe treatment supports the research into novel metabolic targets, with the malic enzyme (ME) representing one such potential candidate. T. cruzi expresses a cytosolic (TcMEc) and a mitochondrial (TcMEm) ME isoform, with these activities functioning to generate NADPH, a key source of reducing equivalents that drives a range of anabolic and protective processes. To identify specific inhibitors that target TcMEs, two independent high-throughput screening strategies using a diversity library containing 30,000 compounds were employed. IC50 values of 262 molecules were determined for both TcMEs, as well as for three human ME isoforms, with the inhibitors clustered into six groups according to their chemical similarity. The most potent hits belonged to a sulfonamide group that specifically target TcMEc. Moreover, several selected inhibitors of both TcMEs showed a trypanocidal effect against the replicative forms of T. cruzi. The chemical diversity observed among those compounds that inhibit TcMEs activity emphasizes the druggability of these enzymes, with a sulfonamide-based subset of compounds readily able to block TcMEc function at a low nanomolar range.