Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Upper Use Temperature of Toughened Epoxy Composites

Traditionally, the glass transition temperature (T{sub g}), as determined by thermal analysis, has been used to calculate the material use threshold. The main drawback to the use of T{sub g} as a measure of upper use temperatures is that it results in use temperatures that are significantly higher than the use temperatures developed through mechanical testing. This study compared operating limits obtained from mechanical tests to glass transition temperatures obtained by several methods of thermal analysis. A toughened epoxy composite, IM7/977-3 from ICI Fiberite, was tested in this study, along with the corresponding neat resin. The mechanical tests performed were interlaminar shear, resin compression, and material operating limit (MOL) testing (a modified open-hole compression test). Specimens were tested over a range of temperatures to determine the upper use temperature. Thermal analysis testing included differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal mechanical analysis (TMA). Two types of dynamic mechanical spectroscopy (DMS) tests were performed: dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and Rheometrics dynamic analysis (RDA). The effects of moisture, heating rates, and test frequency on the measured T{sub g} were examined. The DMS tests were found to give more reproducible results than either the DSC or TMA. Higher heating rates and test frequencies resultedmore » in higher measured T{sub g}`s. Shift factors were developed to allow comparison between data obtained at various heating rates and tests frequencies. Results from the mechanical testing corresponded more closely to the storage modulus measurements of the DMS tests than the values obtained from the tan delta curves. « less
Image near-duplicate retrieval using local dependencies in spatial-scale space

This paper presents an efficient and effective solution for retrieving Image Near-Duplicate (IND). Different from traditional methods, we analyze the local dependencies among region descriptors in a spatial-scale space. Such local dependencies in spatial-scale space(LDSS) encodes not only visual appearance but also the spatial and scale co-occurrence of them. The local dependencies are integrated over all spatial locations and multiple scales to form the image representation, which is invariant to spatial transformation and scale change. We evaluate our proposed LDSS method for IND retrieval using an existing benchmark as well as a new dataset extracted from the keyframes of TRECVID corpus. Compared to the state-of-the-art results, local dependencies in spatial-scale space(LDSS) approach has been shown to significantly improve the accuracy of IND retrieval.
Multihop Local Pooling for Distributed Throughput Maximization in Wireless Networks

Efficient operation of wireless networks requires distributed routing and scheduling algorithms that take into account interference constraints. Recently, a few algorithms for networks with primary- or secondary-interference constraints have been developed. Due to their distributed operation, these algorithms can achieve only a guaranteed fraction of the maximum possible throughput. It was also recently shown that if a set of conditions (known as Local Pooling) is satisfied, simple distributed scheduling algorithms achieve 100% throughput. However, previous work regarding Local Pooling focused mostly on obtaining abstract conditions and on networks with single-hop interference or single-hop traffic. In this paper, we identify several graph classes that satisfy the Local Pooling conditions, thereby enabling the use of such graphs in network design algorithms. Then, we study the multihop implications of Local Pooling. We show that in many cases, as the interference degree increases, the Local Pooling conditions are more likely to hold. Consequently, although increased interference reduces the maximum achievable throughput of the network, it tends to enable distributed algorithms to achieve 100% of this throughput. Regarding multihop traffic, we show that if the network satisfies only the single-hop Local Pooling conditions, distributed joint routing and scheduling algorithms are not guaranteed to achieve maximum throughput. Therefore, we present new conditions for Multihop Local Pooling, under which distributed algorithms achieve 100% throughout. Finally, we identify network topologies in which the conditions hold and discuss the algorithmic implications of the results.
FlashLinQ: A Synchronous Distributed Scheduler for Peer-to-Peer Ad Hoc Networks

This paper proposes FlashLinQ-a synchronous peer-to-peer wireless PHY/MAC network architecture. FlashLinQ leverages the fine-grained parallel channel access offered by OFDM and incorporates an analog energy-level-based signaling scheme that enables signal-to-interference ratio (SIR)-based distributed scheduling. This new signaling mechanism, and the concomitant scheduling algorithm, enables efficient channel-aware spatial resource allocation, leading to significant gains over a CSMA/CA system using RTS/CTS. FlashLinQ is a complete system architecture including: 1) timing and frequency synchronization derived from cellular spectrum; 2) peer discovery; 3) link management; and 4) channel-aware distributed power, data rate, and link scheduling. FlashLinQ has been implemented for operation over licensed spectrum on a digital signal processor/field-programmable gate array (DSP/FPGA) platform. In this paper, we present FlashLinQ performance results derived from both measurements and simulations.
Identification of Multi-Functional Enzyme with Multi-Label Classifier

Enzymes are important and effective biological catalyst proteins participating in almost all active cell processes. Identification of multi-functional enzymes is essential in understanding the function of enzymes. Machine learning methods perform better in protein structure and function prediction than traditional biological wet experiments. Thus, in this study, we explore an efficient and effective machine learning method to categorize enzymes according to their function. Multi-functional enzymes are predicted with a special machine learning strategy, namely, multi-label classifier. Sequence features are extracted from a position-specific scoring matrix with autocross-covariance transformation. Experiment results show that the proposed method obtains an accuracy rate of 94.1% in classifying six main functional classes through five cross-validation tests and outperforms state-of-the-art methods. In addition, 91.25% accuracy is achieved in multi-functional enzyme prediction, which is often ignored in other enzyme function prediction studies. The online prediction server and datasets can be accessed from the link http://server.malab. cn/MEC/.
Animal models of atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Many animal models have been developed to study atherosclerosis, and permit experimental conditions, diet and environmental risk factors to be carefully controlled. Pathophysiological changes can be produced using genetic or pharmacological means to study the harmful consequences of different interventions. Experiments using such models have elucidated its molecular and pathophysiological mechanisms, and provided platforms for pharmacological development. Different models have their own advantages and disadvantages, and can be used to answer different research questions. In the present review article, different species of atherosclerosis models are outlined, with discussions on the practicality of their use for experimentation.
Effects of Olive Oil on Markers of Inflammation and Endothelial Function—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The aim of the present systematic review was to synthesize data from randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of olive oil on markers of inflammation or endothelial function. Literature search in electronic databases Cochrane Trial Register, EMBASE, and MEDLINE was performed. Thirty studies enrolling 3106 participants fulfilled the selection criteria. Pooled effects of different interventions were assessed as mean difference using a random effects model. Olive oil interventions (with daily consumption ranging approximately between 1 mg and 50 mg) resulted in a significantly more pronounced decrease in C-reactive protein (mean difference: −0.64 mg/L, (95% confidence interval (CI) −0.96 to −0.31), p < 0.0001, n = 15 trials) and interleukin-6 (mean difference: −0.29 (95% CI −0.7 to −0.02), p < 0.04, n = 7 trials) as compared to controls, respectively. Values of flow-mediated dilatation (given as absolute percentage) were significantly more increased in individuals subjected to olive oil interventions (mean difference: 0.76% (95% CI 0.27 to 1.24), p < 0.002, n = 8 trials). These results provide evidence that olive oil might exert beneficial effects on endothelial function as well as markers of inflammation and endothelial function, thus representing a key ingredient contributing to the cardiovascular-protective effects of a Mediterranean diet. However, due to the heterogeneous study designs (e.g., olive oil given as a supplement or as part of dietary pattern, variations in control diets), a conservative interpretation of the results is necessary.
Sphinganine and sphingosine levels and ratio in urine and blood samples from a Catalonian population, Spain

Fumonisins occur mainly in maize and they produce alterations on sphingolipid metabolism, unbalancing the sphinganine (Sa)/sphingosine (So) ratio. This alteration has been proposed as a biomarker of fumonisin exposure. The objective of this study was to establish the urinary and plasmatic levels of Sa, So as well as the ratio Sa/So from a sample of the Catalonian (Spain) population exposed to fumonisins at low levels. Firstly, plasma and urinary Sa and So levels and the ratio Sa/So were compared between two population groups, and later urinary Sa and So levels from corn food consumers and a control group were monitored for 2 weeks under controlled intake of corn foods. Sa and So levels were determined in urine and blood samples using validated methods using HPLC with fluorescence detection. Significant differences were not found in urine samples when Sa/So ratios were compared from corn food consumers and non-consumers, while significant differences were found in urine and plasma samples, but evidence of the mechanism of action of fumonisins was not apparent. Through a time-course study we have narrowed down the day in which the maximum alteration of Sa/So ratio should be expected in humans. This paper reports some useful information to improve the design of studies to validate the ratio Sa/So as a possible biomarker of fumonisin exposure.
Polyanionic (phosphates, silicates, sulfates) frameworks as electrode materials for rechargeable Li (or Na) batteries.

For more than 20 years, most of the technological achievements for the realization of positive electrodes for practical rechargeable Li battery systems have been devoted to transition metal oxides such as LixMO2 (M = Co, Ni, Mn), LixMn2O4, LixV2O5, or LixV3O8. The first two classes of materials built on close-packed oxygen stacking adopt bidimensional and tridimensional crystal structures, respectively (Figure 1), from which lithium ions may be easily intercalated or extracted in a reversible manner. These oxides are reasonably good ionic and electronic conductors, and lithium insertion/extraction proceeds while operating on the M4+/M3+ redox couple, located between 4 and 5 V versus Li+/Li.
A Relative Total Cost Index for the Evaluation of Transportation Network Robustness in the Presence of Degradable Links and Alternative Travel Behavior

In this paper, we demonstrate how to capture the robustness of a transportation network in the case of degradable links represented by decreasing capacities. In particular, with the use of Bureau of Public Road user link travel cost functions, we propose two relative total cost indices to assess transportation network robustness in the case of travel behavior associated with either user-optimization or system-optimization. We derive upper bounds of the relative total cost index for transportation networks with special structure and congestion parameters under the user-optimal flow pattern. We also derive an upper bound for the relative total cost index under the system-optimal flow pattern for general transportation networks. Numerical examples are presented for illustration purposes.This research is the first to quantify transportation network robustness in the presence of degradable links and alternative travel behavior. This research has implication for transportation planning and management, for vulnerability analysis, as well as for security issues.
The efficacy of a multidisciplinary group program for patients with refractory chronic pain

Comprehensive programs for chronic pain management provided at multidisciplinary clinics have been shown to be successful in Western countries. However, similar results have not yet been reported in Japan, and it is unclear whether these results are applicable to the Japanese culture. Accordingly, the authors report the results of the ‘Chronic Pain Class’, a program initiated at a multidisciplinary pain centre in Nagakute, Japan.
A knowledge-based solution for automatic mapping in component based automation systems

Due to the current business requirements, the manufacturing industry is striving to reduce design, development and commissioning time of production systems to manufacture new products in a timely manner. The use of new technologies such as virtual engineering, automatic code generation and knowledge-based approaches is being extensively researched. This paper presents a framework that utilizes a knowledge-based approach to automate the component mapping in the code generation process. The raw data is taken from simulation models of manufacturing systems developed in 3D based virtual engineering tools. Moreover, a prototype implementation is presented and the results are discussed.
5-Fluorouracil Induce the Expression of TLR4 on HCT116 Colorectal Cancer Cell Line Expressing Different Variants of TLR4

Two common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the human TLR4 gene, namely Asp299Gly (D299G) and Thr399Ile (T399I), have been shown to impair the ability of certain individuals to respond properly to TLR4 ligands. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is widely used for the treatment of patients with advanced colon cancers. The present study examined the impact of two common polymorphisms of the TLR4 genes on the response of the HCT116 colorectal cancer cells to 5-FU. HCT116 was transfected with Flag-CMV1-TLR4 wild-type (WT) and D299G, T399I expression plasmids. The cytotoxic effect of 5-FU on transfected cells was assessed by MTT assay. FACS analysis was performed to show the effect of 5-FU and LPS on the expression of different variants of TLR4. The lowest IC50-value was measured in cells expressing the WT TLR4 and non-transfected cells were more resistance to the drug compared to the other cells. 5-FU significantly induced the expression of TLR4 protein in the presence and absence of LPS. 5-FU also induced HMGB1 secretion, Cas3 and PARP activity and these effects were stronger in cells expressing WT TLR4 than the other cells. In conclusion, 5-FU-induced TLR4 expression and LPS had synergistic effect with 5-FU to induced apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells.
Spectral Classification and Luminosity Function of Galaxies in the Las Campanas Redshift Survey

We construct a spectral classification scheme for the galaxies of the Las Campanas Redshift Survey (LCRS) based on a principal-component analysis of the measured galaxy spectra. We interpret the physical significance of our six spectral types and conclude that they are sensitive to morphological type and to the amount of active star formation. In this first analysis of the LCRS to include spectral classification, we estimate the general luminosity function, expressed as a weighted sum of the type-specific luminosity functions. In the R-band magnitude range of -23 < M ≤ -16.5 this function exhibits a broad shoulder centered on M ≈ -20 and an increasing faint-end slope that formally converges on α ≈ -1.8 in the faint limit. The Schechter parameterization does not provide a good representation in this case, a fact that may partly explain the reported discrepancy between the luminosity functions of the LCRS and other redshift catalogs such as the Century Survey. The discrepancy may also arise from environmental effects such as the density-morphology relationship for which we see strong evidence in the LCRS galaxies. However, the Schechter parameterization is more effective for the luminosity functions of the individual spectral types. The data show a significant, progressive steepening of the faint-end slope, from α ≈ +0.5 for early-type objects to α ≈ -1.8 for the extreme late-type galaxies. The extreme late-type population has a sufficiently high space density that its contribution to the general luminosity function is expected to dominate at magnitudes fainter than M = -16. We conclude that an evaluation of type dependence is essential to any assessment of the general luminosity function.
The Use of Adhesive Tape for Recovery of DNA from Crime Scene Items

Abstract: The selection of the appropriate method of collection of biological material from crime scene items can be crucial to obtaining a DNA profile. The three techniques commonly used for sampling items are: cutting, swabbing, and taping. The tape sampling technique offers an advantage, in that it enables the collection of a potentially highly informative source of DNA, shed epithelial cells, from selected areas on crime scene items (the inside fingers of a glove, for instance). Furthermore, surface collection of biological material by taping reduces co‐sampling of known PCR inhibitors such as clothing dyes. The correct choice of tape for crime scene item sampling is important. Not all tapes are suitable for biological trace evidence collection as well as DNA extraction. We report on one tape that met both these criteria. Three different cases are presented which demonstrate the usefulness of adhesive tape sampling of crime items. Finally, the advantages of the tape collection technique are discussed and guidelines for preferred areas of tape sampling on various casework items are presented.
Effect of GuiXiong Xiaoyi Wan in Treatment of Endometriosis on Rats

Objective. To evaluate the effect of GuiXiong Xiaoyi Wan (GXXYW) on the development of endometriosis in a rat model. Methods. Sprague-Dawley rats with surgically induced endometriosis were randomly treated with low-dose GXXYW, high-dose GXXYW, or vehicle (negative control) for 28 days. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess cell proliferation in the lesions. The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase- (TdT-) mediated dUTP biotin nick end labelling (TUNEL) method was performed to analyse the apoptosis induced by GuiXiong Xiaoyi Wan. The percentages of CD3+ lymphocytes, CD4+ lymphocytes, and CD8+ lymphocytes in the spleens of the rats were evaluated using flow cytometric analysis. Results. Treatment with GXXYW significantly decreased the lesion size, inhibited cell proliferation, and induced apoptosis in endometriotic tissue. The spleens of GXXYW-treated rats also demonstrated a significant increase in the percentage of CD4+ lymphocytes and a significant decrease in the percentage of CD8+ lymphocytes. Conclusions. These results suggest that, in a rat model, GXXYW may be effective in the suppression of the growth of endometriosis, possibly through the inhibition of cell proliferation, the induction of apoptosis of endometriotic cells, and the regulation of the immune system.
Do Community Characteristics Relate to Young Adult College Students’ Credit Card Debt? The Hypothesized Role of Collective Institutional Efficacy

This study examines the extent of emergent, outstanding credit card debt among young adult college students and investigates whether any associations existed between this credit card debt and the characteristics of the communities in which these students grew up or lived. Using data (N = 748) from a longitudinal survey and merging community characteristics measured at the zip code level, we confirmed that a community's unemployment rate, average total debt, average credit score, and number of bank branch offices were associated with a young adult college student's acquisition and accumulation of credit card debt. For example, a community's higher unemployment rate and lower number of bank branches were associated with a young adult college student's greater accumulated debt. Community characteristics had the strongest associations with credit card debt, especially after controlling for individual characteristics (i.e., a young adult college student's race and financial independence) and familial characteristics (i.e., their parents' income and parents' discussions of financial matters while growing up at home). The findings may help to understand the unique roles that communities play in shaping children and young adults' financial capability, and how communities can be better capacitated to support the financial goals of their residents.
A Feasible BFGS Interior Point Algorithm for Solving Convex Minimization Problems

We propose a BFGS primal-dual interior point method for minimizing a convex function on a convex set defined by equality and inequality constraints. The algorithm generates feasible iterates and consists in computing approximate solutions of the optimality conditions perturbed by a sequence of positive parameters $\mu$ converging to zero. We prove that it converges q-superlinearly for each fixed $\mu$. We also show that it is globally convergent to the analytic center of the primal-dual optimal set when $\mu$ tends to 0 and strict complementarity holds.
Thermal component models for electro thermal analysis of multichip power modules

Thermal component models are developed for multi-chip of insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) power electronic modules (PEM) and associated high-power converter heat sinks. The models are implemented in SABER and are combined with the electro-thermal IGBT and diode models to simulate the electro-thermal performance of high power converter systems. The thermal component models are parameterized in terms of structural and material parameters so that they can be readily used to develop a library of component models for the various commercially available power modules. The paper presents model development and implementation in SABER, simulation results, and validation using experimental data.