Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Exploiting the capabilities of modern GPUs for dense matrix computations

We present several algorithms to compute the solution of a linear system of equations on a graphics processor (GPU), as well as general techniques to improve their performance, such as padding and hybrid GPU‐CPU computation. We compare single and double precision performance of a modern GPU with unified architecture, and show how iterative refinement with mixed precision can be used to regain full accuracy in the solution of linear systems, exploiting the potential of the processor for single precision arithmetic. Experimental results on a GTX280 using CUBLAS 2.0, the implementation of BLAS for NVIDIA® GPUs with unified architecture, illustrate the performance of the different algorithms and techniques proposed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stem Cell Recruitment of Newly Formed Host Cells via a Successful Seduction? Filling the Gap between Neurogenic Niche and Injured Brain Site

Here, we report that a unique mechanism of action exerted by stem cells in the repair of the traumatically injured brain involves their ability to harness a biobridge between neurogenic niche and injured brain site. This biobridge, visualized immunohistochemically and laser captured, corresponded to an area between the neurogenic subventricular zone and the injured cortex. That the biobridge expressed high levels of extracellular matrix metalloproteinases characterized initially by a stream of transplanted stem cells, but subsequently contained only few to non-detectable grafts and overgrown by newly formed host cells, implicates a novel property of stem cells. The transplanted stem cells manifest themselves as pathways for trafficking the migration of host neurogenic cells, but once this biobridge is formed between the neurogenic site and the injured brain site, the grafted cells disappear and relinquish their task to the host neurogenic cells. Our findings reveal that long-distance migration of host cells from the neurogenic niche to the injured brain site can be achieved through transplanted stem cells serving as biobridges for initiation of endogenous repair mechanisms. This is the first report of a stem cell-paved “biobridge”. Indeed, to date the two major schools of discipline in stem cell repair mechanism primarily support the concept of “cell replacement” and bystander effects of “trophic factor secretion”. The present novel observations of a stem cell seducing a host cell to engage in brain repair advances basic science concepts on stem cell biology and extracellular matrix, as well as provokes translational research on propagating this stem cell-paved biobridge beyond cell replacement and trophic factor secretion for the treatment of traumatic brain injury and other neurological disorders.
The XMM-Newton/INTEGRAL monitoring campaign of IGR J16318-4848

Context. IGR J16318-4848 is the prototype and one of the more extreme examples of the new class of highly obscured Galactic X-ray sources discovered by INTEGRAL. A monitoring campaign on this source has been carried out using XMM-Newton and INTEGRAL, consisting of three simultaneous observations performed in February, March and August 2004. Aims. The long-term variability of the Compton-thick absorption and emission line complexes will be used to probe the properties of the circumstellar matter. Methods. A detailed timing and spectral analysis of the three observations is performed, along with the reanalysis of the XMM-Newton observation performed in February 2003. The results are compared with predictions from numerical radiative transfer simulations to derive the parameters of the circumstellar matter. Results. Despite the large flux dynamic range observed (almost a factor 3 between observations performed a few months apart), the source remained bright (suggesting it is a persistent source) and Compton-thick (N H > 1.2 × 10 24 cm -2 ). Large Equivalent Width (EW) emission lines from Fe Ka, Fe Kp and Ni K α were present in all spectra. The addition of a Fe K α Compton Shoulder improves the fits, especially in the 2004 observations. Sporadic occurrences of rapid X-ray flux risings were observed in three of the four observations. The Fe K α light curve followed the continuum almost instantaneously, suggesting that the emission lines are produced by illumination of small-scale optically-thick matter around the high-energy continuum source. Using the iron line EW and Compton Shoulder as diagnostic of the geometry of the matter, we suggest that the obscuring matter is in a flattened configuration seen almost edge-on.
On the Accuracy of Self-Normalized Log-Linear Models

Calculation of the log-normalizer is a major computational obstacle in applications of log-linear models with large output spaces. The problem of fast normalizer computation has therefore attracted significant attention in the theoretical and applied machine learning literature. In this paper, we analyze a recently proposed technique known as "self-normalization", which introduces a regularization term in training to penalize log normalizers for deviating from zero. This makes it possible to use unnormalized model scores as approximate probabilities. Empirical evidence suggests that self-normalization is extremely effective, but a theoretical understanding of why it should work, and how generally it can be applied, is largely lacking. We prove upper bounds on the loss in accuracy due to self-normalization, describe classes of input distributions that self-normalize easily, and construct explicit examples of high-variance input distributions. Our theoretical results make predictions about the difficulty of fitting self-normalized models to several classes of distributions, and we conclude with empirical validation of these predictions.
Implementation of molecular markers for quantitative traits in breeding programs - challenges and opportunities

Molecular marker assisted selection (MAS) has been touted as a means to improve the efficiency and speed of plant selection programs. The most widespread use of MAS to date is to assist backcrossing of major genes into already proven, elite cultivars. Markers can aid selection for target alleles that are not easily assayed in individual plants, minimize linkage drag around the target gene, and reduce the number of generations required to recover a very high percentage of the recurrent parent genetic background. The use of MAS in forward-selection programs is less common and is mainly restricted to marker loci linked to major-effect genes with consistent linkage phase across numerous populations. MAS has not been widely used for the improvement of polygenic traits because quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping techniques remain insufficiently precise and because QTL information cannot be easily extrapolated from mapping populations to other breeding populations. The accuracy of QTL mapping can be improved by increasing population sizes and the number of testing environments, but these same techniques also improve conventional phenotypic selection. Therefore, MAS for polygenic traits is mainly restricted to situations where phenotypic selection cannot be easily implemented (such as for traits that are difficult to phenotype on individual plants or in offseason nurseries). MAS will remain a specialized breeding tool until QTL mapping can be extended to estimation of breeding values across many diverse breeding crosses and subpopulations such as those that compose typical plant breeding programs.
Notes on the simulation of evolution

The simulation of evolution for the purposes of parameter optimization has generally demonstrated itself to be a robust and rapid optimization technique. But there may exist more value in simulating evolution than simple parameter optimization. The optimizations of system behavior obtained through simulated evolution represent a potentially powerful autopoetic pathway to machine learning and self-organization. Indeed, it may eventually prove to be the only practical path to the development of ontogenetic machine intelligence. As the complexity of the systems being evolved increases, the development of a proper philosophy of analysis and design becomes imperative. The designer of evolutionary algorithms must keep clearly in mind what is being evolved and what evolves only by consequence. Notes on the simulation of evolution are offered in four sections: 1) the basic nature of evolution, 2) its practical simulation, 3) common philosophical errors, and 4) that which remains to be accomplished. Simulated evolutionary optimization is a mechanism of machine learning that can reasonably be expected to continue to grow in importance and practical benefit. As the availability of massively parallel processors increases, the value of simulated evolutionary techniques will become increasingly apparent, if for no other reason than the natural match between the technique and the emerging technology. The method has been repeatedly demonstrated to successfully find points of global optimality when other methods fail, often astonishingly quickly. Specific rules have become apparent and are easily stated.
Anesthesia in Multiple Sclerosis

SUMMARY: The effect of general anesthesia on 42 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients who underwent 88 episodes of general anesthesia was analyzed. One patient experienced a relapse after a procedure under general anesthesia, which is compatible with the natural history of the disease. A literature review revealed little information on this subject or on the use of particular anesthetic agents in MS. Our experience with spinal and local anesthesia is reported. In the evaluation of the former our limited data suggested that spinal anesthesia is less preferable than other alternatives in MS. Local anesthetics had a benign effect on the course of MS.
Investigating the Effects of the MathemAntics Number Line Activity on Children's Number Sense

Investigating the Effects of the MathemAntics Number Line Activity on Children’s Number Sense Samantha Creighan Number sense, which can broadly thought of as the ability to quickly understand, approximate, and manipulate numerical quantities, can be a difficult construct for researchers to operationally define for empirical study. Regardless, many researchers agree it plays an important role in the development of the symbolic number system, which requires children to master many tasks such as counting, indentifying numerals, comparing magnitudes, transforming numbers and performing operations, estimating, and detecting number patterns, skills which are predictive of later math achievement. The number line is a powerful model of symbolic number consistent with researchers’ hypotheses concerning the mental representation of number. The MathemAntics Number Line Activity (MANL) transforms the number line into a virtual manipulative, encourages estimation, provides multiple attempts, feedback, and scaffolding, and introduces a novel features where the user can define his own level of risk on the number line. The aim of the present study was to examine how these key features of MANL are best implemented to promote number sense in low-income second-graders. Sixty-six students from three schools were randomly assigned to one of three conditions; MANL User-Defined Range (UDR), and MANL Fixed Range (FR), and a Reading comparison condition and underwent a pretest session, four computer sessions, and a posttest session. During the computer sessions, researchers coded a child’s observed strategy in placing targets on the number line. The results showed that children with higher number sense ability at pretest performed better on a posttest number line estimation measure when they were in the UDR condition than in the FR condition. Conversely, children with low number sense ability at pretest performed better on the number
Vagotomy Reduces Insulin Clearance in Obese Mice Programmed by Low-Protein Diet in the Adolescence

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of subdiaphragmatic vagotomy on insulin sensitivity, secretion, and degradation in metabolic programmed mice, induced by a low-protein diet early in life, followed by exposure to a high-fat diet in adulthood. Weaned 30-day-old C57Bl/6 mice were submitted to a low-protein diet (6% protein). After 4 weeks, the mice were distributed into three groups: LP group, which continued receiving a low-protein diet; LP + HF group, which started to receive a high-fat diet; and LP + HFvag group, which underwent vagotomy and also was kept at a high-fat diet. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) in isolated islets, ipGTT, ipITT, in vivo insulin clearance, and liver expression of the insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) was accessed. Vagotomy improved glucose tolerance and reduced insulin secretion but did not alter adiposity and insulin sensitivity in the LP + HFvag, compared with the LP + HF group. Improvement in glucose tolerance was accompanied by increased insulinemia, probably due to a diminished insulin clearance, as judged by the lower C-peptide : insulin ratio, during the ipGTT. Finally, vagotomy also reduced liver IDE expression in this group. In conclusion, when submitted to vagotomy, the metabolic programmed mice showed improved glucose tolerance, associated with an increase of plasma insulin concentration as a result of insulin clearance reduction, a phenomenon probably due to diminished liver IDE expression.
Behavior Problems in Learning Activities and Social Interactions in Head Start Classrooms and Early Reading, Mathematics, and Approaches to Learning

Abstract. Relations between early problem behavior in preschool classrooms and a comprehensive set of school readiness outcomes were examined for a stratified random sample (N = 256) of 4-year-old children enrolled in a large, urban school district Head Start program. A series of multilevel models examined the unique contribution of early problem behavior in structured learning activities, peer interactions, and teacher interactions to reading, mathematics, and approaches to learning at the end of the year, accounting for child demographic variables (child age, sex, and ethnicity). Early problem behavior in structured learning activities consistently predicted lower academic outcomes (early reading and mathematics ability) as well as lower motivation, attention, and persistence in academically focused tasks. Early problem behavior in peer situations predicted lower attitude toward learning, reflecting children’s difficulties self-regulating and engaging appropriately in socially mediated classroom learning activities. Implications for intervention within early childhood educational programs serving low-income children are discussed.
Ethical and Legal Issues Regarding Consent in Research With Adult Stroke Patients: Case Study in the Ethics of Mental Health Research

Abstract This case study describes research into interventions to enhance stroke patients’ ability to communicate. Because patients’ cognitive abilities are compromised, it is argued that they may lack the capacity to consent and that surrogate consent should be required. In South Africa, this would make conducting the research difficult because only court-appointed curators are “legally appropriate” substitutes for research enrolment. Here, the research ethics committee must balance legal requirements and ethical concerns. It must also balance protection and respect for autonomy, even for cognitively compromised participants. First, incapacity should not simply be assumed but should be individually assessed. However, stroke patients present a further complication for capacity assessment because they may retain the capacity to reason but have lost the ability to communicate effectively. Second, the research ethics committee must decide whether recruitment should be restricted or whether incapacitated participants may be enrolled. Given the low risk of harm, incapacitated persons could be enrolled by proxies.
Nanocomposite Electrospun Nanofiber Membranes for Environmental Remediation

Rapid worldwide industrialization and population growth is going to lead to an extensive environmental pollution. Therefore, so many people are currently suffering from the water shortage induced by the respective pollution, as well as poor air quality and a huge fund is wasted in the world each year due to the relevant problems. Environmental remediation necessitates implementation of novel materials and technologies, which are cost and energy efficient. Nanomaterials, with their unique chemical and physical properties, are an optimum solution. Accordingly, there is a strong motivation in seeking nano-based approaches for alleviation of environmental problems in an energy efficient, thereby, inexpensive manner. Thanks to a high porosity and surface area presenting an extraordinary permeability (thereby an energy efficiency) and selectivity, respectively, nanofibrous membranes are a desirable candidate. Their functionality and applicability is even promoted when adopting a nanocomposite strategy. In this case, specific nanofillers, such as metal oxides, carbon nanotubes, precious metals, and smart biological agents, are incorporated either during electrospinning or in the post-processing. Moreover, to meet operational requirements, e.g., to enhance mechanical stability, decrease of pressure drop, etc., nanofibrous membranes are backed by a microfibrous non-woven forming a hybrid membrane. The novel generation of nanocomposite/hybrid nanofibrous membranes can perform extraordinarily well in environmental remediation and control. This reality justifies authoring of this review paper.
Melatonin prevents testicular damage in hyperlipidaemic mice

The damaging effect of hyperlipidaemia on testicular structure was determined, and the influence of melatonin was evaluated in testicular damage related to hyperlipidaemia. Hyperlipidaemia was induced in ApoE‐knockout C57BL/6J male mice fed with high‐fat diet alone (group A), or with high‐fat diet and melatonin (group B). Six ApoE wild‐type C57BL/6J male mice were fed with normal diet, served as controls. At the end of the experimental period, ultrastructural observations showed dramatically histopathological alterations in testicular tissues of group A. The basement membranes of seminiferous tubules were partially thickened and wavy‐like in testes of mice with hyperlipidaemia, and vacuolar degeneration of mitochondria and dilation of endoplasmic reticulum were identified as well as the number of mitochondria and lipid droplets decreased significantly in Leydig cells and Sertoli cells. Electrondense deposits were observed in cytoplasms of germ cells. The testicular histostructure in group B treated with melatonin was similar to that of control. Apoptosis was determined by terminal‐deoxynucleotidyl‐transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labelling. Apoptotic germ cells were significantly more numerous in group A than in group B and controls. The results suggest that melatonin may be potential to attenuate testicular damage by improving histopathological changes and reducing germ cell apoptosis in hyperlipidaemic mice.
A comparison of diversity, frequency, and severity self-reported offending scores among female offending youth.

[Correction Notice: An Erratum for this article was reported in Vol 24(3) of Psychological Assessment (see record 2012-04601-001). The article contained a number of errors which are corrected in the erratum. ] Despite general consensus over the value of measuring self-reported offending, discrepancies exist in methods of scoring self-reported offending and the length of the reference period over which offending is assessed. This analysis compared the concurrent interassociations and longitudinal predictive strength of diversity, frequency, and severity offending scores measured over the past 6 months and diversity and severity scores measured "ever" between assessments. For violent offending, different scorings were highly correlated and equally predictive of adulthood offending. For nonviolent offending, there was significant continuity in diversity and severity-weighted diversity scores over the transition to adulthood but not in nonviolent frequency or severity-weighted frequency scores. Results support the use of offending diversity scores rather than offending frequency scores and highlight the importance of examining nonviolent and violent offending as separate constructs.
Genotypic Variation for Salinity Tolerance in Cenchrus ciliaris L.

Scarcity of irrigation water and increasing soil salinization has threatened the sustainability of forage production in arid and semi-arid region around the globe. Introduction of salt-tolerant perennial species is a promising alternative to overcome forage deficit to meet future livestock needs in salt-affected areas. This study presents the results of a salinity tolerance screening trial which was carried out in plastic pots buried in the open field for 160 buffelgrass (Cenchrus ciliaris L.) accessions for three consecutive years (2003–2005). The plastic pots were filled with sand, organic, and peat moss mix and were irrigated with four different quality water (EC 0, 10, 15, and 20 dS m−1). The results indicate that the average annual dry weights (DW) were in the range from 122.5 to 148.9 g/pot in control; 96.4–133.8 g/pot at 10 dS m−1; 65.6–80.4 g/pot at 15 dS m−1, and 55.4–65.6 g/pot at 20 dS m−1. The highest DW (148.9 g/pot) was found with accession 49 and the lowest with accession 23. Principle component analysis shows that PC-1 contributed 81.8% of the total variability, while PC-2 depicted 11.7% of the total variation among C. ciliaris accessions for DW. Hierarchical cluster analysis revealed that a number of accessions collected from diverse regions could be grouped into a single cluster. Accessions 3, 133, 159, 30, 23, 142, 141, 95, 49, 129, 124, and 127 were stable, salt tolerant, and produced good dry biomass yield. These accessions demonstrate sufficient salinity tolerance potential for promotion in marginal lands to enhance farm productivity and reduce rural poverty.
Possible relation of water structural relaxation to water anomalies

The anomalous behavior of thermodynamic response functions is an unsolved problem in the physics of water. The mechanism that gives rise to the dramatic indefinite increase at low temperature in the heat capacity, the compressibility, and the coefficient of thermal expansion, is unknown. We explore this problem by analyzing both new and existing experimental data on the power spectrum S(Q, ω) of bulk and confined water at ambient pressure. When decreasing the temperature, we find that the liquid undergoes a structural transformation coinciding with the onset of an extended hydrogen bond network. This network onset seems to give rise to the marked viscoelastic behavior, consistent with the interesting possibility that the sound velocity and response functions of water depend upon both the frequency and wave vector.
Surveillance and outbreak reports A multistate epidemic outbreak of Salmonella Goldcoast infection in humans , June 2009 to March 2010 : the investigation in Italy

G Scavia (gaia.scavia@iss.it)1, G Ciaravino1, I Luzzi1, A Lenglet2, A Ricci3, L Barco3, A Pavan4, F Zaffanella5, A M Dionisi1 1. Istituto Superiore di Sanitá, Rome, Italy 2. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden 3. Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Padua, Italy 4. Regione Lombardia, Milan, Italy 5. Azienda Sanitaria Locale della provincia di Mantova, Mantova, Italy