Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Management challenges for DevOps adoption within UK SMEs

The DevOps phenomenon is gathering pace as more UK organisations seek to leverage the benefits it can potentially bring to software engineering functions. However substantial organisational change is inherent to adopting DevOps, especially where there are prior and established methods. As part of a wider piece of doctoral research investigating the management challenges of DevOps adoption, we present early findings of a six month qualitative diary study following the adoption of DevOps within a UK based SME with over 200 employees. We find that within our case study organisation, the DevOps approach is being adopted for the development of a new system used both internally and by customers. DevOps, conceptually, appears to be generally well regarded, but in reality is proving difficult to fully adopt. This difficulty is down to a combination of necessity in maintaining a legacy system, lack of senior management buy-in, managerial structure and resistance. Additionally, we are finding evidence of job crafting, especially with the software developers. Taken together, we put forward the argument that DevOps is an interdisciplinary topic which would greatly benefit from further management and potentially psychology oriented research attention.
Fusion of Time‐Lapse Gravity Survey and Hydraulic Tomography for Estimating Spatially Varying Hydraulic Conductivity and Specific Yield Fields

Hydraulic conductivity (K) and specific yield ( Sy ) are important aquifer parameters, pertinent to groundwater resources management and protection. These parameters are commonly estimated through a traditional cross‐well pumping test. Employing the traditional approach to obtain detailed spatial distributions of the parameters over a large area is generally formidable. For this reason, this study proposes a stochastic method that integrates hydraulic head and time‐lapse gravity based on hydraulic tomography (HT) to efficiently derive the spatial distribution of K and Sy over a large area. This method is demonstrated using several synthetic experiments. Results of these experiments show that the K and Sy fields estimated by joint inversion of the gravity and head data set from sequential injection tests in unconfined aquifers are superior to those from the HT based on head data alone. We attribute this advantage to the mass constraint imposed on HT by gravity measurements. Besides, we find that gravity measurement can detect the change of aquifer's groundwater storage at kilometer scale, as such they can extend HT's effectiveness over greater volumes of the aquifer. Furthermore, we find that the accuracy of the estimated fields is improved as the number of the gravity stations is increased. The gravity station's location, however, has minor effects on the estimates if its effective gravity integration radius covers the well field.
Blood pressure reduction and cardiovascular prevention: meta-regression using ordered categorical (ordinal) event data

Background Blood pressure (BP)-lowering trials studying efficacy mostly assesses binary outcome events, for example stroke/no stroke. Analysis of ordered categorical vascular events (e.g. three levels: fatal stroke/nonfatal stroke/no stroke) provides information on severity and is more powerful statistically than analyses using binary data, as used in previous meta-regression analyses of BP lowering. Methods Summary data on stroke, myocardial infarction, and combined vascular events were obtained from published BP-lowering trials. Ordinal and binary odds ratios were calculated. The relationship between the difference in BP and treatment odds ratio was assessed using meta-regression. Results Thirty-eight trials involving 180 804 patients were included. A ‘U’ or ‘J’-shaped relationship was found between on-treatment BP difference and three level ordinal stroke, ordinal myocardial infarction, and ordinal combined vascular outcome. Similar relationships were noted for binary stroke, myocardial infarction, and combined vascular outcome. Meta-regression curves for three level ordinal analyses were similar in shape and position to that for binary analyses. Conclusions Meta-regression using ordinal outcomes in hypertension trials is practical and gives comparable values for the odds ratio as found in analyses based on binary outcomes. However, trials and meta-analyses reporting ordinal outcomes provide additional information in particular that lowering BP reduces both the severity and frequency of fatal and recurrent stroke. Trials should report data so that ordinal analyses may be performed.
“When Treatment Is More Challenging than the Disease”: A Qualitative Study of MDR-TB Patient Retention

Background One-fifth of the patients on multidrug-resistant tuberculosis treatment at the Drug-Resistant-TB (DR-TB) Site in Gujarat are lost-to-follow-up(LFU). Objective To understand patients’ and providers' perspectives on reasons for LFU and their suggestions to improve retention-in-care. Design Qualitative study conducted between December 2013-March 2014, including in-depth interviews with LFU patients and DOT-providers, and a focus group discussion with DR-TB site supervisors. A thematic-network analysis approach was utilised. Results Three sub-themes emerged: (i) Struggle with prolonged treatment; (ii) Strive against stigma and toward support; (iii) Divergent perceptions and practices. Daily injections, pill burden, DOT, migratory work, social problems, prior TB treatment, and adverse drugs effects were reported as major barriers to treatment adherence and retention-in-care by patients and providers. Some providers felt that despite their best efforts, LFU patients remain. Patient movements between private practitioners and traditional healers further influenced LFU. Conclusion The study points to a need for repeated patient counselling and education, improved co-ordination between various tiers of providers engaged in DR-TB care, collaboration between the public, private and traditional practitioners, and promotion of social and economic support to help patients adhere to MDR-TB treatment and avoid LFU.
Factors That Influence Improvement in Numeracy, Reading, and Comprehension in the Context of a Numeracy Intervention

In a randomized controlled trial 104 primary school children, who received an individualized numeracy intervention, Catch Up Numeracy, were compared with 100 children, who received matched-time teaching, and 107, who received business-as-usual teaching. They were assessed before and after intervention, on the Number Screening Test and on both the reading and comprehension components of the Salford Sentence Reading Test. Those who received the intervention improved significantly more than the controls in numeracy but not in reading or comprehension. Numeracy, reading, and comprehension scores were significantly correlated. Both reading and numeracy predicted improvement in comprehension, but only comprehension predicted improvement in reading, and neither literacy measure predicted improvement in numeracy. Children eligible for free school meals scored lower than others on all pre-tests and post-tests, but did not differ in their levels of improvement. Age negatively predicted improvement in reading and comprehension, but not numeracy. Gender affected comprehension but not reading or numeracy.
On various definitions of the variance of a fuzzy random variable

According to the current literature, there are two different approaches to the definition of the variance of a fuzzy random variable. In the first one, the variance is defined as a fuzzy interval, oering a gradual description of our incomplete knowledge about the variance of an underlying, imprecisely observed, classical random variable. In the second case, the variance of the fuzzy random variable is defined as a crisp number, that makes it easier to handle in further processing. In this work, we introduce yet another definition of the variance of a fuzzy random variable, in the context of the theory of imprecise probabilities. The new variance is not defined as a fuzzy or crisp number, but it is a real interval, which is a compromise between both previous definitions. Our main objectives are twofold: first, we show the interpretation of the new variance and, second, with the help of simple examples, we demonstrate the usefulness of all these definitions when applied to particular situations.
Interleukin 6 Underlies Angiotensin II–Induced Hypertension and Chronic Renal Damage

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent life-threatening disease frequently associated with hypertension, progression to renal fibrosis, and eventual renal failure. Although the pathogenesis of CKD remains largely unknown, an increased inflammatory response is known to be associated with the disease and has long been speculated to contribute to disease development. However, the causative factors, the exact role of the increased inflammatory cascade in CKD, and the underlying mechanisms for its progression remain unidentified. Here we report that interleukin 6 (IL-6) expression levels were significantly increased in the kidneys collected from CKD patients and further elevated in CKD patients characterized with hypertension. Functionally, we determined that angiotensin II is a causative factor responsible for IL-6 induction in the mouse kidney and that genetic deletion of IL-6 significantly reduced hypertension and key features of CKD, including renal injury and progression to renal fibrosis in angiotensin II–infused mice. Mechanistically, we provide both human and mouse evidence that IL-6 is a key cytokine functioning downstream of angiotensin II signaling to directly induce fibrotic gene expression and preproendothelin 1 mRNA expression in the kidney. Overall, both the mouse and human studies reported here provide evidence that angiotensin II induces IL-6 production in the kidney, and that, in addition to its role in hypertension, increased IL-6 may play an important pathogenic role in CKD by inducing fibrotic gene expression and ET-1 gene expression. These findings immediately suggest that the IL-6 signaling is a novel therapeutic target to manage this devastating disorder affecting millions worldwide.
Noninvasive Measurement of the Human Peripheral Circulation: Relationship Between Laser Doppler Flowmeter and Photoplethysmograph Signals from the Finger

Under certain conditions laser Doppler flowmeter (LDF) signals obtained from the finger pulp may appear very similar to those obtained by use of a direct current (dc) photoplethysmograph (PPG). A combined LDF/PPG system was used in conjunction with a circumference strain gauge as an index of vol ume change to identify the conditions in which the correlation between these signals was good. Simultaneous LDF and dc PPG measurements were made on 10 normal vol unteers by using arterial occlusion and on 7 normal subjects by using the Val salva maneuver at different elevations of the forearm and hand with respect to the midsternum. By altering the elevation of the upper limb the influence of venous filling on each of the signals during these maneuvers was observed. Since the dc PPG signal always appeared similar to the volume change indi cated by the circumference strain gauge, it is concluded that the dc PPG signal is related to blood volume change if allowance is made for the effects of blood oxygenation. In circumstances of low venous filling, however, blood volume changes correlate well with blood flow changes, producing the correlation be tween the dc PPG and LDF traces. The dc PPG signal may be used as a means of monitoring changes in blood flow in the finger only when venous filling is low and the return remains unre stricted. Thus, in investigations using this method, the relative position of the limb with respect to the heart should always be indicated. The LDF method appears to be a reliable indicator of blood flow changes in the microcirculation irrespective of the degree of venous filling.
Host culling as an adaptive management tool for chronic wasting disease in white‐tailed deer: a modelling study

Summary 1 Emerging wildlife diseases pose a significant threat to natural and human systems. Because of real or perceived risks of delayed actions, disease management strategies such as culling are often implemented before thorough scientific knowledge of disease dynamics is available. Adaptive management is a valuable approach in addressing the uncertainty and complexity associated with wildlife disease problems and can be facilitated by using a formal model.2 We developed a multi‐state computer simulation model using age, sex, infection‐stage, and seasonality as a tool for scientific learning and managing chronic wasting disease (CWD) in white‐tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus. Our matrix model used disease transmission parameters based on data collected through disease management activities. We used this model to evaluate management issues on density‐ (DD) and frequency‐dependent (FD) transmission, time since disease introduction, and deer culling on the demographics, epizootiology, and management of CWD.3 Both DD and FD models fit the Wisconsin data for a harvested white‐tailed deer population, but FD was slightly better. Time since disease introduction was estimated as 36 (95% CI, 24–50) and 188 (41–>200) years for DD and FD transmission, respectively. Deer harvest using intermediate to high non‐selective rates can be used to reduce uncertainty between DD and FD transmission and improve our prediction of long‐term epidemic patterns and host population impacts. A higher harvest rate allows earlier detection of these differences, but substantially reduces deer abundance.4 Results showed that CWD has spread slowly within Wisconsin deer populations, and therefore, epidemics and disease management are expected to last for decades. Non‐hunted deer populations can develop and sustain a high level of infection, generating a substantial risk of disease spread. In contrast, CWD prevalence remains lower in hunted deer populations, but at a higher prevalence the disease competes with recreational hunting to reduce deer abundance.5 Synthesis and applications. Uncertainty about density‐ or frequency‐dependent transmission hinders predictions about the long‐term impacts of chronic wasting disease on cervid populations and the development of appropriate management strategies. An adaptive management strategy using computer modelling coupled with experimental management and monitoring can be used to test model predictions, identify the likely mode of disease transmission, and evaluate the risks of alternative management responses.
Interrelationships Between Structural Parameters of Cancellous Bone Reveal Accelerated Structural Change at Low Bone Volume

This study shows that change to cancellous bone structure is bone volume‐dependent in a nonlinear manner. At low bone volume (<15%), trabecular thickness and trabecular separation change at a much greater rate than at higher bone volume. This suggests that the structural integrity of the cancellous bone may become rapidly compromised when bone volume falls below a critical value.
Different strategies of 25OH vitamin D supplementation in HIV-positive subjects

Summary A high incidence of 25OH vitamin D deficiency has been observed in HIV-infected subjects. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of cholecalciferol administration on serum 25OH vitamin D levels in HIV-infected patients. This prospective cohort study included 153 HIV-positive subjects; 47 were treated with 300,000 IU intramuscular cholecalciferol, 67 with 25,000 IU oral cholecalciferol monthly, while the remaining 39 did not receive any treatment. The group treated orally had an increase of serum 25OH vitamin D concentration, changing from 15.7 ± 12.2 ng/mL to 27.4 ± 11.6 ng/mL after 10 months (T10). The group treated with intramuscular supplementation had an improvement, changing from 18.5 ± 10.5 ng/mL to 32.9. 0 ± 12.2 ng/mL at T10. One-way repeated measures analysis of variance indicated a significant difference for 25OH vitamin D variation (p = 0.002) among the three groups. A significant effect of time (p < 0.001) and group × time interaction (p < 0.001) was found: at T10, 25OH vitamin D values were significantly higher in the oral and intramuscular groups with respect to the control group. Our findings showed that the supplementation with cholecalciferol in patients with HIV-infection improved 25OH vitamin D serum levels, and suggest that the two types of administration are equivalent, but are insufficient for severe forms of hypovitaminosis.
East London Modified-Broset as Decision-Making Tool to Predict Seclusion in Psychiatric Intensive Care Units

Seclusion is a last resort intervention for management of aggressive behavior in psychiatric settings. There is no current objective and practical decision-making instrument for seclusion use on psychiatric wards. Our aim was to test the predictive and discriminatory characteristics of the East London Modified-Broset (ELMB), to delineate its decision-making profile for seclusion of adult psychiatric patients, and second to benchmark it against the psychometric properties of the Broset Violence Checklist (BVC). ELMB, an 8-item modified version of the 6-item BVC, was retrospectively employed to evaluate the seclusion decision-making process on two Psychiatric Intensive Care Units (patients n = 201; incidents n = 2,187). Data analyses were carried out using multivariate regression and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves. Predictors of seclusion were: physical violence toward staff/patients OR = 24.2; non-compliance with PRN (pro re nata) medications OR = 9.8; and damage to hospital property OR = 2.9. ROC analyses indicated that ELMB was significantly more accurate that BVC, with higher sensitivity, specificity, and positive likelihood ratio. Results were similar across gender. The ELMB is a sensitive and specific instrument that can be used to guide the decision-making process when implementing seclusion.
Impact of Modern Construction Materials on Radio Signal Propagation: Practical Measurements and Network Planning Aspects

Use of energy efficient construction materials is increasing all the time due to more and more tightened building regulations, which aim is to reduce overall energy consumption and thereon e.g. mitigate climate change. Energy efficient building materials and structures improve heat insulation but also change the propagation characteristics of radio signals between outdoor and indoors. This paper examines in details such propagation effects and increased levels of outdoor-indoor attenuation in modern apartment buildings, and their impact on mobile cellular networks. In particular, the aim is to compare external wall attenuations for the modern and older apartment buildings and to assess the impact of increased attenuations for the density and planning of cell sites of mobile cellular macro networks. We also demonstrate and evaluate the opportunities for increased indoor signal coverage by using a dedicated aperture installed in building materials.
Differential Ability of Human Blood Monocyte Subsets to Release Various Cytokines

We have shown that two human monocyte subsets can be isolated from the peripheral blood of healthy donors; these subsets possess different morphological, cytochemical, functional, and in vivo trafficking properties [1]. In this report, these two subsets were further characterized. One subset (intermediate monocytes, IM) has been shown to have significantly lower acid phosphatase activity and total cellular protein content as well as lower peroxidase activity when compared with another subset (regular monocytes, RM). The overall activation status of the two subsets (as determined by their alkaline phosphodiesterase activity) was identical. We also examined the capacity of these subsets to release various cytokines with or without polyriboinosinic and poly‐ ribocytidylic acid (Poly l:C) stimulation. There was no appreciable difference in their ability to release interferon (IFN), interleukin 1 (IL‐1), and prostaglandin E (PGE) without stimulation, while IM produced slightly, but significantly, higher amounts of colony‐stimulating factor (CSF) than RM. The amount of IFN released by IM in response to poly l:C was approximately three times higher than the amount of IFN released by RM. IL‐1 was also released in higher amounts by IM than by RM in response to poly l:C. IM were also found to release more CSF than RM in response to poly l:C. In contrast, it was noted that IM secrete significantly less PGE response to poly l:C than do RM. These findings indicate that two purified human monocyte subsets, distinguishable by maturation markers, differ significantly in their ability to release various cytokines after stimulation; this difference may be relevant to potential in vivo roles of these immunoregulatory cells.
Real-time footstep planning using a geometric approach

To this date, many footstep planning systems rely on external sensors for mapping and traversability analysis or on computationally expensive algorithms that do not allow for real-time calculations. In this paper, we present an approach that analyzes the environment in the vicinity of the robot with an onboard RGBD camera while computing local footstep plans in real time. We achieve this by combining the advantages of grid-based height maps, fast planar region segmentation, and a systematic local footstep search to a local goal point. Using a single CPU core, a full mapping and planning cycle only takes 18 ms on average and thus presents an important step to autonomous humanoid robots in dynamic environments that only rely on their onboard hardware.
Towards Trustworthy Composite Service Through Business Process Model Verification

The Business Process Modeling Notation (BPMN) is a standard for modeling business processes in the early phases of systems development. Model verification is an important means to guarantee the trustiness of composite services. The verification of model, especially the model with strict time constraints, is a challenge in the field of trust composite services. Whether a model is trustworthy depends not only on the model structure but also on quantitative properties such as time properties. In this paper, we propose a mapping from BPMN to time Petri nets, and use the verification techniques on the basis. The algorithm we present can be used to check the model structure and the time choreography.
of Lipoxygenase-Expressing Airway Facilitates Neutrophilic Breach 3 Hepoxilin A

Karsten Gronert and Bryan P. HurleyMorisseau, Bruce D. Hammock, Beth A. McCormick,C. Traficante, Gerald B. Pier, John R. Falck, Christophe David L. Tamang, Waheed Pirzai, Gregory P. Priebe, Davidhttp://www.jimmunol.org/content/189/10/4960doi: 10.4049/jimmunol.1201922October 2012;J Immunol€2012; 189:4960-4969; Prepublished online 8Referenceshttp://www.jimmunol.org/content/189/10/4960.full#ref-list-1This article cites 63 articles, 31 of which you can access for free at: Subscriptionshttp://jimmunol.org/subscriptionsInformation about subscribing to The Journal of Immunology is online at: Permissionshttp://www.aai. org/ji/copyright.htmlSubmit copyright permission requests at: Email Alertshttp://jimmunol.org/cgi/alerts/etocReceive free email-alerts when new articles cite this article. Sign up at: