Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Reliable packaging technologies for power electronics: Diffusion soldering and heavy copper wire bonding

Production of a reliable power module capable of achieving higher switching frequencies and higher junction temperatures is limited by the present assembly and packaging methods, mostly in the areas of the die-attach and the top level interconnections. The present study aims to display the advances in packaging technologies of diffusion soldering and heavy copper wire bonding in the view of material characterization, process optimization and quality improvement. In diffusion soldering, the growth of intermetallic phases through thin-layer paste deposition and solder profile optimization with vapor phase soldering were investigated. Solder paste inspections were performed to evaluate the errors during deposition process for thin layers and influences on soldering process and related post-failure modes. In heavy wire copper bonding, the impact of substrates with a mechanically polished surface of reduced roughness was investigated. Furthermore the influence of applying the bond force in a ramp style was examined and inspected with the pull and shear forces. The bond width was also monitored in order to receive a non-destructive quality feature for the process monitoring. All test series were accompanied by a close control of the tool wear-out and its influence on process stability.
The distributed firing squad problem

The distributed firing squad problem is defined in the context of a synchronous distributed system where the correct processors operate in lock-step synchrony but do not share a global clock. If one or more correct processors receive a command to start a firing squad synchronization, then at some future time all correct processors must “fire” (formally, enter a special state) at exactly the same step. For various fault models, upper and lower bounds are proved on the number of faulty processors that can be tolerated and on the number of rounds of communication required between the reception of the start command and firing. For example, if a firing squad protocol is resilient to t fail-stop faults, then at least $t + 1$ rounds are necessary and sufficient. For the case of Byzantine faults with authentication where the faulty processors can take steps in between the synchronous steps of the correct processors, the firing squad problem can be solved in $t + 5$ rounds, provided that $n > 3t$, where n is the n.
Universal decoding for source-channel coding with side information

We consider a setting of Slepian-Wolf coding, where the random bin of the source vector undergoes channel coding, and then decoded at the receiver, based on additional side information, correlated to the source. For a given distribution of the randomly selected channel codewords, we propose a universal decoder that depends on the statistics of neither the correlated sources nor the channel, assuming first that they are both memoryless. Exact analysis of the random-binning/random-coding error exponent of this universal decoder shows that it is the same as the one achieved by the optimal maximum a-posteriori (MAP) decoder. Previously known results on universal Slepian-Wolf source decoding, universal channel decoding, and universal source-channel decoding, are all obtained as special cases of this result. Subsequently, we further generalize the results in two directions: (i) finite-state sources and finite-state channels, along with a universal decoding metric that is based on Lempel-Ziv parsing, and (ii) full (symmetric) Slepian-Wolf coding, where both source streams are separately fed into random-binning source encoders, followed by random channel encoders, which are then jointly decoded by a universal decoder.
Production of transgenic rats by lentiviral transduction of male germ-line stem cells

Primary cultures of rat spermatogenic cells that did not bind to collagen matrices were able to colonize and form mature spermatozoa when transferred to testes of recipient males. Up to 73% of the progeny from matings with recipient males were derived from the transferred spermatogenic cells. Subsequently, two populations of germ cells were obtained by selection on laminin matrices. Both populations expressed the spermatogenic cell marker, DAZL, but not the somatic cell marker, vimentin. The cells that bound to laminin represented ≈5% of the total population and were greatly enriched in ability to colonize a recipient testis, suggesting an enrichment in germ-line stem cells. The colonization potential was maintained for at least 7 days in culture. These cells were subsequently transduced with a lentiviral enhanced GFP reporter vector and then transferred to WT recipient males. After mating, 26 of 44 pups were derived from the cultured donor germ cells, and 13 pups carried the lentiviral transgene. Based on Southern analysis, the transgene was integrated at a different genetic locus in each animal and was transmitted to ≈50% of pups in the F2 generation. Thus, by using these procedures, ≈30% of pups in the F1 generation inherited and stably transmitted a lentiviral transgene that integrated at various genomic sites.
A Complex Web of Signal-dependent Trafficking Underlies the Triorganellar Distribution of P-Selectin in Neuroendocrine PC12 Cells

By analyzing the trafficking of HRP–P-selectin chimeras in which the lumenal domain of P-selectin was replaced with horseradish peroxidase, we determined the sequences needed for targeting to synaptic-like microvesicles (SLMV), dense core granules (DCG), and lysosomes in neuroendocrine PC12 cells. Within the cytoplasmic domain of P-selectin, Tyr777 is needed for the appearance of P-selectin in immature and mature DCG, as well as for targeting to SLMV. The latter destination also requires additional sequences (Leu768 and 786DPSP789) which are responsible for movement through endosomes en route to the SLMV. Leu768 also mediates transfer from early transferrin (Trn)-positive endosomes to the lysosomes; i.e., operates as a lysosomal targeting signal. Furthermore, SLMV targeting of HRP–P-selectin chimeras, but not the endogenous SLMV protein synaptophysin/p38, previously shown to be delivered to SLMV directly from the plasma membrane, is a Brefeldin A–sensitive process. Together, these data are consistent with a model of SLMV biogenesis which involves an endosomal intermediate in PC12 cells. In addition, we have discovered that impairment of SLMV or DCG targeting results in a concomitant increase in lysosomal delivery, illustrating the entwined relationships between routes leading to regulated secretory organelles (RSO) and to lysosomes.
Use of pre-, pro- and synbiotics in patients with acute pancreatitis: a meta-analysis.

AIM To assess the clinical outcomes of pre-, pro- and synbiotics therapy in patients with acute pancreatitis. METHODS The databases including Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science and Chinese Biomedicine Database were searched for all relevant randomized controlled trials that studied the effects of pre-, pro- or synbiotics in patients with acute pancreatitis. Main outcome measures were postoperative infections, pancreatic infections, multiple organ failure (MOF), systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), length of hospital stay, antibiotic therapy and mortality. RESULTS Seven randomized studies with 559 acute pancreatic patients were included. Pre-, pro- or synbiotics treatment showed no influence on the incidence of postoperative infections [odds ratios (OR) 0.30, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.09-1.02, P = 0.05], pancreatic infection (OR 0.50, 95% CI: 0.12-2.17, P = 0.36), MOF (OR 0.88, 95% CI: 0.35-2.21, P = 0.79) and SIRS (OR 0.78, 95% CI: 0.20-2.98, P = 0.71). There were also no significant differences in the length of antibiotic therapy (OR 0.75, 95% CI: 0.50 - 1.14, P = 0.18) and the mortality (OR 0.75, 95% CI: 0.25-2.24, P = 0.61). However, Pre-, pro- or synbiotics treatment was associated with a reduced length of hospital stay (OR -3.87, 95% CI: -6.20 to -1.54, P = 0.001). When stratifying for the severity of acute pancreatitis, the main results were similar. CONCLUSION Pre-, pro- or synbiotics treatment shows no significant influence on patients with acute pancreatitis. There is a lack of evidence to support the use of probiotics/synbiotics in this area.
Aerobic Interval Training Partly Reverse Contractile Dysfunction and Impaired Ca2+ Handling in Atrial Myocytes from Rats with Post Infarction Heart Failure

Background There is limited knowledge about atrial myocyte Ca2+ handling in the failing hearts. The aim of this study was to examine atrial myocyte contractile function and Ca2+ handling in rats with post-infarction heart failure (HF) and to examine whether aerobic interval training could reverse a potential dysfunction. Methods and results Post-infarction HF was induced in Sprague Dawley rats by ligation of the left descending coronary artery. Atrial myocyte shortening was depressed (p<0.01) and time to relaxation was prolonged (p<0.01) in sedentary HF-rats compared to healthy controls. This was associated with decreased Ca2+ amplitude, decreased SR Ca2+ content, and slower Ca2+ transient decay. Atrial myocytes from HF-rats had reduced sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase activity, increased Na+/Ca2+-exchanger activity and increased diastolic Ca2+ leak through ryanodine receptors. High intensity aerobic interval training in HF-rats restored atrial myocyte contractile function and reversed changes in atrial Ca2+ handling in HF. Conclusion Post infarction HF in rats causes profound impairment in atrial myocyte contractile function and Ca2+ handling. The observed dysfunction in atrial myocytes was partly reversed after aerobic interval training.
Direct myocardial and coronary effects of enalaprilat in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy: assessment by a bilateral intracoronary infusion technique.

Angiotensin II elicits contractile responses in the coronary arteries and myocardial tissue, which suggests that blockade of the renin-angiotensin system by specific agents should lead to both coronary vasodilation and an alteration of left ventricular inotropism. The present work was designed to delineate--independently from its systemic effects--the intrinsic actions of an angiotensin converting-enzyme inhibitor on the coronary circulation and left ventricular function. To minimize peripheral effects, a bilateral intracoronary infusion of enalaprilat (0.05 mg.min-1, 1 ml.min-1 in each coronary artery) was performed in 16 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. All patients had normal coronary arteriograms. In 12 patients (group I) the intracoronary infusion of enalaprilat resulted in minimal peripheral changes, with a 5% reduction in the mean aortic pressure (p less than .05) and no significant alteration in indexes of preload, i.e., left ventricular end-diastolic pressure and volume, or of afterload, i.e., left ventricular end-systolic stress and systemic resistances. Myocardial oxygen consumption was also unaffected by the intracoronary infusion of enalaprilat. Coronary vasodilation was demonstrated by a significant elevation of coronary sinus blood flow (+19%, from 181 +/- 73 to 214 +/- 79 ml.min-1, p less than .001) and a reduction of coronary resistance (-18%, from 0.51 +/- 0.17 to 0.41 +/- 0.15 mm Hg.ml-1.min, p less than .001), with a parallel increase in coronary sinus oxygen content and pressure (both p less than .05). Oxygen extraction by the myocardium was reduced (p less than .01). (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica: two cases and a review of the literature.

INTRODUCTION Tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica (TO) is a rare disorder involving the lumen of the trachea-bronchial tree and characterized by multiple sub-mucosal osseous and cartilaginous nodules in the trachea and bronchus, sparing the posterior wall. We here report two cases of patients with tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica and review the relevant literature briefly. CASE PRESENTATION Case 1 was a 64-year-old woman with a history of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) who presented with frequent non-productive cough for 2 years. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed signs consistent with COPD and evident irregular narrowing of the tracheal and both main bronchial lumen caused by calcific foci. Fibre optic bronchoscope (FOB) was performed and showed dozens of sub-mucosal nodules protruding into the lumen of lower half of the trachea and both main bronchi. Histopathological exam demonstrated sub-mucosal ossification and cartilage in the sample. Her follow-up has been uneventful for 3 years. Case 2 was a 37-year-old man presented with hoarseness, exertional dyspnea, and intermittent dry cough for about 3 years. Chest CT scans showed irregular nodules around the entire circumference of the trachea extending from sub-glottic region to lower trachea. FOB showed glottic stenosis and diffused sub-mucosal calcified nodules protruding from the antero-lateral portion of the trachea in the subglottic region. Over the following 12 months, his disease is stable. CONCLUSIONS TO is a rare, benign disease with slow progression, clinicians should be aware of TO and should consider it in patients with chronic cough, recurrent respiratory infection and evolving exertional dyspnea.
Multitask Gaussian Processes for Multivariate Physiological Time-Series Analysis

Gaussian process (GP) models are a flexible means of performing nonparametric Bayesian regression. However, GP models in healthcare are often only used to model a single univariate output time series, denoted as single-task GPs (STGP). Due to an increasing prevalence of sensors in healthcare settings, there is an urgent need for robust multivariate time-series tools. Here, we propose a method using multitask GPs (MTGPs) which can model multiple correlated multivariate physiological time series simultaneously. The flexible MTGP framework can learn the correlation between multiple signals even though they might be sampled at different frequencies and have training sets available for different intervals. Furthermore, prior knowledge of any relationship between the time series such as delays and temporal behavior can be easily integrated. A novel normalization is proposed to allow interpretation of the various hyperparameters used in the MTGP. We investigate MTGPs for physiological monitoring with synthetic data sets and two real-world problems from the field of patient monitoring and radiotherapy. The results are compared with standard Gaussian processes and other existing methods in the respective biomedical application areas. In both cases, we show that our framework learned the correlation between physiological time series efficiently, outperforming the existing state of the art.
A framework for fast design space exploration using fuzzy search for VLSI computing Architectures

In High level Synthesis design methodology, the evaluation and selection of the optimal architecture for the system is done through a process called Design Space Exploration (DSE). This paper presents a novel framework for fast DSE using fuzzy search technique for optimizing modular computing architecture for the current generation of multi objective VLSI designs. The proposed method is able to radically reduce the number of architectural variants to be analyzed during design space exploration while simultaneously maintaining the precision required during the exploration process. Significant improvement in speedup during DSE is obtained for different benchmarks, compared to a DSE method with binary search mechanism.
Output feedback disturbance attenuation with robustness to nonlinear uncertain dynamics via state-dependent scaling

The paper presents a novel approach to output feedback stabilization with L/sub 2/ disturbance attenuation for nonlinear systems in the presence of dynamic uncertainties. A new method of state-dependent scaling unifies treatment of nonlinear and linear gains in the output feedback design. The effect of disturbance on the controlled output, which is allowed to be any function of output measurements, can be attenuated to an arbitrarily small level with global asymptotic stability if the plant belongs to a wide class of interconnected systems whose uncertain components unnecessarily have finite linear-gain. The uncertain dynamics is not limited to input-to-state stable systems either. The approach is not only a natural extension of popular approaches in robust linear control, but also advantageous to numerical computation. The design procedure proposed in the paper consists of novel recursive calculation of robust observer gain as well as feedback gain.
Anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes of dairy cattle in the Macalister Irrigation District of Victoria.

OBJECTIVE To report anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematode parasites of cattle on commercial dairy farms in the Macalister Irrigation District of Gippsland, Victoria. METHODS Faecal egg count reduction tests (FECRTs) were used to assess anthelmintic resistance on 20 Macalister Irrigation District dairy farms between May 2013 and June 2014. All three currently available anthelmintic classes for cattle nematodes in Australia were tested. Faecal samples were collected 10-14 days post-treatment for individual faecal egg counts (FEC) and larval differentiation. The arithmetic mean FEC for each treatment group was compared with an untreated control post-treatment. Resistance was defined as <95% reduction in FEC, with a lower 95% confidence interval <90% when the mean FEC of the control group, differentiated by genus, was greater than 25 eggs/g. RESULTS Anthelmintic resistance was present on all 20 dairy farms involved in this study. Resistance to doramectin in at least one species was detected on 15/20 (70%) farms, fenbendazole on 16/20 (80%) farms and levamisole on 5/20 (25%) farms. On three farms, resistance by Ostertagia ostertagi to all three anthelmintic classes was detected. CONCLUSION This is the first report of anthelmintic-resistant O. ostertagi on Australian dairy farms. Resistance to all three available anthelmintic classes is of concern, given the high pathogenicity of this species. The study highlights the need for veterinarians and dairy farmers to be aware of the risks posed by anthelmintic resistance.
Increased matrix metalloproteinase-3 serum levels in rheumatic diseases: relationship with synovitis and steroid treatment

Objective: To determine matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) serum levels in patients with rheumatic diseases and to study the relation between MMP-3 and C reactive protein (CRP) levels. Methods: MMP-3 serum levels were determined by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in (a) patients with active inflammatory rheumatic diseases: rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, acute crystal arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis; (b) patients with active inflammatory systemic diseases: cutaneo-articular or renal systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis, and vasculitides; (c) patients with non-inflammatory rheumatic diseases: osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia; (d) critically ill patients without rheumatic diseases, representing an acute inflammatory control group; (e) healthy controls. Results: MMP-3 serum levels were significantly increased in patients with active RA, psoriatic arthritis, and polymyalgia rheumatica, whether treated or not by corticosteroids, and in female patients with acute crystal arthritis. MMP-3 serum levels were normal in steroid-free patients with active cutaneo-articular or renal SLE, systemic sclerosis, and vasculitides but were significantly increased in steroid treated patients. MMP-3 levels were normal in fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and acute inflammatory controls. MMP-3 was significantly correlated with CRP in RA (r=0.5, p=0.0004) but not in any of the other disease groups. Conclusions: MMP-3 serum levels are increased in inflammatory rheumatic diseases characterised by joint synovitis, such as RA, polymyalgia rheumatica, psoriatic arthritis, and acute crystal arthritis—that is, whether the diseases are acute or chronic, erosive or not. They are normal in SLE, systemic sclerosis, and vasculitides as well as in non-rheumatic inflammatory controls, but are significantly increased by steroids. These data strongly suggest that serum MMP-3 reflects synovial inflammation.
Analytical Study and Stability Design of a 3-D Fuzzy Logic Controller for Spatially Distributed Dynamic Systems

A novel 3-D fuzzy logic controller (3-D FLC) was presented to control a class of spatially distributed dynamic systems by Li (IEEE Trans. Fuzzy Syst., vol. 15, no. 3, pp. 470-481, Jun. 2007) by utilizing a 3-D fuzzy set and an inference mechanism with 3-D nature for spatial information processing. In this paper, the analytical mathematical model of the 3-D FLC is derived, and the controller structure is explained with the help of the existing conventional control techniques. The graphic analytical method for the traditional two-term FLC can be used for the analytical model derivation. The derived result shows that the 3-D FLC has a global sliding-mode structure over the spatial domain and explains why the 3-D FLC is able to process spatial information more effectively than its traditional counterpart using a few more sensors. Because of its sliding-mode feature, the Lyapunov stability criterion can be developed easily to analyze and design the 3-D FLC. Finally, a catalytic reactor is presented as an example to demonstrate the effectiveness of the 3-D FLC as compared with other controllers.
Membrane Hyperpolarization Triggers Myogenin and Myocyte Enhancer Factor-2 Expression during Human Myoblast Differentiation*

It is widely thought that myogenin is one of the earliest detectable markers of skeletal muscle differentiation. Here we show that, during human myoblast differentiation, an inward rectifier K+ channel (Kir2.1) and its associated hyperpolarization trigger expression and activity of the myogenic transcription factors, myogenin and myocyte enhancer factor-2 (MEF2). Furthermore, Kir2.1 current precedes and is required for the developmental increase in expression/activity of myogenin and MEF2. Drugs or antisense reducing Kir2.1 current diminished or suppressed fusion as well as expression/activity of myogenin and MEF2. In contrast, LY294002, an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (a pathway controlling initiation of the myogenic program) that inhibited both myogenin/MEF2 expression and fusion, did not affect Kir2.1 current. This non-blockade by LY294002 indicates that Kir2.1 acts upstream of myogenin and MEF2. We propose that Kir2.1 channel activation is a required key early event that initiates myogenesis by turning on myogenin and MEF2 transcription factors via a hyperpolarization-activated Ca2+-dependent pathway.