Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A digital fountain approach to asynchronous reliable multicast

The proliferation of applications that must reliably distribute large, rich content to a vast number of autonomous receivers motivates the design of new multicast and broadcast protocols. We describe an ideal, fully scalable protocol for these applications that we call a digital fountain. A digital fountain allows any number of heterogeneous receivers to acquire content with optimal efficiency at times of their choosing. Moreover, no feedback channels are needed to ensure reliable delivery, even in the face of high loss rates. We develop a protocol that closely approximates a digital fountain using two new classes of erasure codes that for large block sizes are orders of magnitude faster than standard erasure codes. We provide performance measurements that demonstrate the feasibility of our approach and discuss the design, implementation, and performance of an experimental system.
A Circular List-Based Mutual Exclusion Scheme for Large Shared-Memory Multiprocessors

Mutual exclusion in shared-memory multiprocessors is realized by employing a lock to determine the processor among those which compete for the critical section. Accesses to such a mutual exclusion lock may create heavy synchronization traffic and/or serious contention over the network, thereby degrading system performance considerably. In this paper, we introduce an efficient scheme which keeps synchronization traffic low and avoids serious hot-spot contention. This is made possible by constructing a circular list of the processors waiting for the critical section and by dispersing accesses to the lock. Extensive simulation of the proposed approach was conducted and the lower bound on the elapsed time was derived. Our simulation results demonstrate that the proposed scheme indeed achieves better performance than prior techniques, with its elapsed time close to the lower bound for the whole range of simulated system sizes, thus promising good scalability for large systems.
Alternative Method for Primary Nasal Epithelial Cell Culture Using Intranasal Brushing and Feasibility for the Study of Epithelial Functions in Allergic Rhinitis

Purpose Although differentiated normal human nasal epithelial (NHNE) cells can be used to study the role of human nasal epithelium, there is a need for effective culture models of nasal epithelium in sinonasal disease status, including allergic rhinitis (AR). We aimed to examine the feasibility of intranasal brushing for culture of nasal epithelial cells in AR patients and to verify the hypothesis that allergic nasal epithelial (ARNE) cells differ in histologic and physiologic characteristics. Methods We established a system for isolating (via intranasal brushing) and culturing (with air-liquid interface, ALI) nasal epithelial cells from healthy volunteers (n=8) and AR patients (n=8). We used this system to compare the histologic findings and physiologic characteristics of NHNE and ARNE. Results The histology results showed that fully differentiated ALI culture was obtained at least 14 days after confluence and that both ciliated and secretory cells were well differentiated in ALI culture using nasal brushing. The histology results of ARNE culture were significantly different from NHNE. The number of ciliated cells was lower, and secretory cells were more dominant in ARNE cell culture compared to NHNE cells. We also observed, by electron microscopy, loose tight junctions and short cilia in cultured ARNE cells. In addition, the mRNA level of TSLP which was one of the epithelial-derived allergic cytokines was significantly higher, and the expressions of genes involved in ciliogenesis were lower in cultured ARNE cells without allergen stimulation. Conclusions Our findings suggest that ALI culture of ARNE cells using intranasal brushing may be an alternative method for epithelial cell culture in AR patients and that cultured ARNE cells will be useful for in vitro studies of the mechanisms at play during AR because they maintain unique allergic characteristics.
Optical frequency transfer over a single-span 1840 km fiber link

Optical frequency transfer via a 1840 km fiber link has been investigated. Twenty fiber amplifiers and two fiber Brillouin amplifiers are needed to compensate for 420 dB of loss. Active noise compensation reduces the instability to 2.7 × 10<sup>-15</sup> at 1 s with 4 × 10<sup>-19</sup> after 100 s and an accuracy of a few parts in 10<sup>19</sup>.
Postnatal development of NADPH-diaphorase expression in the visual cortex of the golden hamster**

Nitric oxide is an important neuromodulator in the brain and is involved in the development of visual system. But it is not clear how nitric oxide and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) are involved in the developing visual cortex of rodents. Thus we examined the expression of NOS activity in the postnatal developing visual cortex of the golden hamster by using histochemical technique for NADPH-diaphorase (NADPH-d). A heavily stained NADPH-d band was observed in the neuropil of the visual cortex. This NADPH-d band initially appeared in the cortical plate from the day of birth (P0) to postnatal day 4 (P4). From P7 to P21, this band was confined to area 17 and migrated to the deeper layers III-IV and V-VI before it eventually disappeared at P28. Such developmental trends of the band correlated well with the process of formation and establishment of the geniculo-cortical projection patterns. Thus, the areal specific development of the band suggests that NOS is closely related to the cortical differentiation and synaptic formation of the primary visual cortex. On the other hand, monocular eye enucleation on P1 could not alter the appearance of this NADPH-d positive band, indicating a non-activity dependant role of NOS. In addition, differences in the laminar distributions and developmental sequence between the heavily and lightly stained NADPH-d positive neurons during development suggest that they play different roles in the development.
Effect of High-Flux Dialysis on Circulating FGF-23 Levels in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients: Results from a Randomized Trial

Background In patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (HD), increased levels of circulating fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) are independently associated with cardiovascular events and mortality. Interventional strategies aiming to reduce levels of FGF-23 in HD patients are of particular interest. The purpose of the current study was to compare the impact of high-flux versus low-flux HD on circulating FGF-23 levels. Methods We conducted a post-hoc analysis of the MINOXIS study, including 127 dialysis patients randomized to low-flux (n = 62) and high-flux (n = 65) HD for 52 weeks. Patients with valid measures for FGF-23 investigated baseline and after 52 weeks were included. Results Compared to baseline, a significant increase in FGF-23 levels after one year of low-flux HD was observed (Delta plasma FGF-23: +4026 RU/ml; p < 0.001). In contrast, FGF-23 levels remained stable in the high flux group (Delta plasma FGF-23: +373 RU/ml, p = 0.70). The adjusted difference of the absolute change in FGF-23 levels between the two treatment groups was statistically significant (p < 0.01). Conclusions Over a period of 12 months, high-flux HD was associated with stable FGF-23 levels, whereas the low-flux HD group showed an increase of FGF-23. However, the implications of the different FGF 23 time-trends in patients on high flux dialysis, as compared to the control group, remain to be explored in specifically designed clinical trials. Trial Registration German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS) DRKS00007612.
Computational Statistics and Data Analysis Nonnegative Bias Reduction Methods for Density Estimation Using Asymmetric Kernels

Two classes of multiplicative bias correction (''MBC'') methods are applied to density estimation with support on [0, ∞). It is demonstrated that under sufficient smoothness of the true density, each MBC technique reduces the order of magnitude in bias, whereas the order of magnitude in variance remains unchanged. Accordingly, the mean integrated squared error of each MBC estimator achieves a faster convergence rate of O  n −8/9  when best implemented, where n is the sample size. Furthermore, MBC estimators always generate nonnegative estimates by construction. Plug-in smoothing parameter choice rules for the estimators are proposed, and their finite sample performance is examined via Monte Carlo simulations.
Presenting blood pressure in traumatic brain injury: a bimodal distribution of death.

BACKGROUND Recent research explores the relationship between vital signs on arrival to the emergency department and early outcomes. This work has not included traumatic brain injury (TBI). We aimed to evaluate the relationship of the initial emergency department systolic blood pressure (EDSBP) with outcome. METHODS By using the National Trauma Data Bank (v7), we analyzed patients older than 16 years with isolated moderate to severe blunt TBI. TBI was defined by International Classification of Diseases--9th Rev diagnosis codes and Abbreviated Injury Scale scores. We determined mortality rates while controlling for age, gender, race, payment type, and injury severity using logistic regression. Survival analysis was performed to determine 3-day survival rates. Scores and rates were plotted against EDSBP. RESULTS A total of 7,238 patients were included in the analysis. Plots of adverse outcomes versus EDSBP demonstrated bimodal distributions. The mortality curve had one inflection point at EDSBP 120 mm Hg, indicating higher mortality when blood pressures were lower than this threshold. Another inflection began at EDSBP 140 mm Hg. The mortality rate was 21% when EDSBP was <120 mm Hg, 9% when it was between 120 mm Hg and 140 mm Hg, and 19% when EDSBP was ≥140 mm Hg. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that patients presenting with an EDSBP of <120 mm Hg and ≥140 mm Hg were 2.7 (95% confidence interval =2.13,3.48) and 1.6 (95% confidence interval =1.32,1.96) times more likely to die, respectively, than those who presented with a EDSBP of 120 mm Hg to 140 mm Hg. CONCLUSIONS Mortality in moderate to severe TBI has a bimodal distribution. Like hypotension, hypertension at hospital admission seems to be associated with increased mortality in TBI, even after controlling for other factors.
Explaining abstract counterexamples

When a program violates its specification a model checker produces a counterexample that shows an example of undesirable behavior. It is up to the user to understand the error, locate it, and fix the problem. Previous work introduced a technique for explaining and localizing errors based on finding the closest execution to a counterexample, with respect to a distance metric. That approach was applied only to concrete executions of programs. This paper extends and generalizes the approach by combining it with predicate abstraction. Using an abstract state-space increases scalability and makes explanations more informative. Differences between executions are presented in terms of predicates derived from the specification and program, rather than specific changes to variable values. Reasoning to the cause of an error from the factthat in the failing run x < y, but in the successful execution x = y is easier than reasoning from the information that in the failing run y = 239, but in the successful execution y = 232. An abstract explanation is <i>automatically generalized</i> Predicate abstraction has previously been used in model checking purely as a state-space reduction technique. However, an abstraction good enough to enable a model checking tool to find an error is also likely to be useful as an <i>automatically generated high-level description of a state space</i> --- suitable for use by programmers. Results demonstrating the effectiveness of abstract explanations support this claim.
An iterative super-resolution reconstruction of image sequences using a Bayesian approach and affine block-based registration

Due to translational registration, traditional super-resolution reconstructions can apply only on the sequences that have simple translation motion. This paper reviews the super-resolution algorithm in these two decades and proposes a novel super-resolution reconstruction that that can apply on real sequences or complex motion sequences. The proposed super-resolution reconstruction uses a high accuracy registration algorithm, the fast affine block-based registration [42], in the stochastic regularization technique of Bayesian MAP estimation used to compensate the missing measurement information. The experimental results show that the proposed reconstruction can apply on real sequence such as Suzie, Mobile Calendar and Foreman.
Lmo4 in the nucleus accumbens regulates cocaine sensitivity

An estimated 2 million Americans use cocaine, resulting in large personal and societal costs. Discovery of the genetic factors that contribute to cocaine abuse is important for understanding this complex disease. Previously, mutations in the Drosophila LIM‐only (dLmo) gene were identified because of their increased behavioral sensitivity to cocaine. Here we show that the mammalian homolog Lmo4, which is highly expressed in brain regions implicated in drug addiction, plays a similar role in cocaine‐induced behaviors. Mice with a global reduction in Lmo4 levels show increased sensitivity to the locomotor stimulatory effects of cocaine upon chronic cocaine administration. This effect is reproduced with downregulation of Lmo4 in the nucleus accumbens by RNA interference. Thus, Lmo genes play conserved roles in regulating the behavioral effects of cocaine in invertebrate and mammalian models of drug addiction.
Effects of Machine Variables on the Structure and Properties of Air-Jet Fasciated Yarns

The structure of fasciated yams, spun from 2.4 dtex, 51 mm acrylic fibers on an air-jet experimental machine, consisted of an untwisted core of fibers and a surface layer of fibers wrapped around the greater part of the core length. The surface fiber wrapping varied markedly in appearance and gave distinctive, reoccurring features along the yam length. These features were grouped into three classes based on the presence and the orderliness of the wrapping fibers. The mean length and frequency per meter of yam were obtained for each class, and the effects of the machine variables on these structural parameters and the yam properties were determined. Statistical analysis showed that the changes in the structural parameters correlated significantly with changes in the measured yam properties.
A Blinded Randomised Trial of Acupuncture (Manual and Electroacupuncture) Compared with a Non-Penetrating Sham for the Symptoms of Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Objectives To compare the effect of acupuncture (manual and electroacupuncture) with that of a non-penetrating sham (‘placebo’ needle) in patients with osteoarthritic knee pain and disability who are blind to the treatment allocation. Methods Acupuncture naive patients with symptomatic and radiological evidence of osteoarthritis of the knee were randomly allocated to a course of either acupuncture or non-penetrating sham acupuncture using a sheathed ‘placebo’ needle system. Acupuncture points for pain and stiffness were selected according to acupuncture theory for treating Bi syndrome. Both manual and electrical stimulation were used. Response was assessed using the WOMAC index for osteoarthritis of the knee, self reported pain scale, the EuroQol score and plasma β-endorphin. The effectiveness of blinding was assessed. Results There were 34 patients in each group. The primary end point was the change in WOMAC pain score after the course of treatment. Comparison between the two treatment groups found a significantly greater improvement with acupuncture (mean difference 60, 95% CI 5 to 116, P=0.035) than with sham. Within the acupuncture group there was a significant improvement in pain (baseline 294, mean change 95, 95% CI 60 to 130, P<0.001) which was not seen by those who had sham acupuncture (baseline 261, mean change 35, 95% CI-10 to 80, P=0.12). Similar effects within group, but not between groups, were seen with the secondary end points of WOMAC stiffness, WOMAC function, and self reported pain. One month after treatment the between group pain difference had been lost (mean difference 46; 95% CI −9 to 100, P=0.10) although the acupuncture group was still benefiting compared to baseline (mean difference 59; 95% CI 16 to 102, P=0.009). The EuroQol score, a generic measure of health related quality of life, was not altered by the treatments. A minority of patients correctly guessed their treatment group (41% in the acupuncture group and 44% in the control group). Plasma β-endorphin levels were not affected by either treatment. Conclusions Acupuncture gives symptomatic improvement for patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, and is significantly superior to non-penetrating sham acupuncture. The study did not confirm earlier reports of release of plasma β-endorphin during acupuncture.
Association of short stature with life satisfaction and self-rated health in children and adolescents: the CASPIAN-IV study

Abstract Background: Data on stature in Iranian children and adolescents at national level are limited. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of short stature with life satisfaction (LS) and self-rated health (SRH) in children and adolescents. Methods: Data were obtained from a nationwide survey entitled childhood and adolescence surveillance and prevention of adult non-communicable disease (CASPIAN IV). Participants were 14,880 children and adolescents, aged 6–18 years, who were selected using multistage, cluster sampling method from rural and urban areas of 30 provinces of Iran. LS and SRH were evaluated for every participant by the validated questionnaire prepared based on the global school-based student health survey of the World Health Organization (WHO). Height was measured according to the standard protocol. Short stature was defined as height less than −2 standard deviation (SD) below the mean height for age and sex. Results: Overall, 13,484 participants with a mean (SD) age of 12.5 (3.36) years (49.24% girls, 50.75% boys) completed the study (response rate 90.6%). The prevalence of short stature, poor SRH and life dissatisfaction was 9%, 20.04% and 20.09%, respectively. Although in the univariate model, participants with short stature had significantly lower odds of LS [odds ratio (OR): 0.83, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.71–0.97] and good SRH (OR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.68–0.92), in the multivariate model, only the association of short stature with good SRH remained statistically significant (OR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69–0.98). Conclusions: Results of the present study show that participants with short stature are at the greater risk of poor SRH and decreased LS in comparison with the subjects with normal height.
Mechanical Behavior for 3-D Orthogonal Woven E-Glass/Epoxy Composites

A testing program is conducted to investigate the mechanical properties and failure mechanism for 3-D orthogonal woven E-glass/epoxy composite materials, which were manufactured using E-glass for fiber and Ciba-Geigy GY260 epoxy for matrix. For the mechanical property, the testing results indicate that at the loading range of 0 to 4 KN, the inplane Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio obtained using the strains recorded on the matrix surfaces are close to those recorded on the filler yarn surfaces. However, for the in-plane shear modulus, the difference between data from these two surfaces is obvious. The average elastic constants from the tests compare favorably with the predicted results using the laminate block model developed previously [1]. For the tensile failure strength, there is a reasonably good agreement between the measured and predicted results using the rule of mixture. Observation of the specimen fracture surfaces reveals that for a specimen cut along the x or y direction, its fracture surface is generally perpendicular to the applied loading direction. However, for a specimen cut along the 45° with respect to the stuffer yarn direction, the fracture surface is generally parallel to the stuffer yarn. The larger pullout lengths for the failure yarns are obviously observed from the specimen fracture surfaces, but yarn pullouts were not observed for the 3-D orthogonal woven CFRP composites [2].
GIBB rumination and ProSPective changeS in dePreSSive SymPtomS

according to the response styles theory (Nolen-hoeksema, 1991), rumination contributes to both the development and maintenance of depressive symptoms. in this study, we examined the vulnerability and maintenance hypotheses in a multi-wave prospective study of young adults with levels of negative events and depressive symptoms assessed every week for 7 weeks. We found no support for the vulnerability hypothesis. Specifically, levels of rumination (brooding or reflective rumination) did not moderate the link between weekly negative events and weekly changes in depressive symptoms. in contrast, we did find support for the maintenance hypothesis. Specifically, levels of brooding and reflective rumination were related to elevated depressive symptom levels across the follow-up. Consistent with previous research, the magnitude of the effect for brooding was stronger than that for reflective rumination.
Measurements of turbulence near the sea bed in a tidal current

The turbulent fluctuations of velocity have been measured, using an electromagnetic flowmeter, at heights up to 1.75 meters above the sea bed. The area of observations was off Anglesey, North Wales, in depths of 12 to 22 meters, on a firm, sandy bottom and during neutrally stable conditions. A number of records of the longitudinal (u) and vertical (w) components of velocity were obtained, and a few records included the lateral (v) component. From these the intensities, autocorrelations, and cross correlations for various time lags were computed and the corresponding u, v, w, and uw spectra were determined. Sufficient numbers of records have been obtained to enable mean values to be derived for a given set of physical conditions.
WDR20 Regulates Activity of the USP12·UAF1 Deubiquitinating Enzyme Complex*

The UAF1 (Usp1-associated factor 1) protein binds and stimulates three deubiquitinating enzymes: USP1, USP12, and USP46. Although the USP1·UAF1 complex is required for regulation of the Fanconi anemia (FA) DNA repair pathway, less is known about the USP12·UAF1 and the USP46·UAF1 complexes. To understand further the nature of the USP12 and USP46 complexes, we attempted to identify proteins that interact with the USP12 and USP46 deubiquitinating enzyme complexes. We identified WDR20, a WD40-repeat containing protein, as a common binding partner of UAF1, USP12, and USP46. Further analysis showed that WDR20 associates exclusively with USP12 and USP46, not with USP1. Furthermore, we demonstrate the purification of a ternary USP12·UAF1·WDR20 complex. Interestingly, and consistent with the binding assays, WDR20 stimulated the enzymatic activity of USP12·UAF1, but not of USP1·UAF1. Consistent with our previous report that USP12 and USP46 do not regulate the FA pathway, small interference RNA-mediated depletion of WDR20 protein did not affect the FA pathway or DNA damage responses. We provide a model in which WDR20 serves as a stimulatory subunit for preserving and regulating the activity of the subset of the UAF1·USP complexes.