Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
LINCOS: A Storage System Providing Long-Term Integrity, Authenticity, and Confidentiality

The amount of digital data that requires long-term protection of integrity, authenticity, and confidentiality grows rapidly. Examples include electronic health records, genome data, and tax data. In this paper we present the secure storage system LINCOS, which provides protection of integrity, authenticity, and confidentiality in the long-term, i.e., for an indefinite time period. It is the first such system. It uses the long-term integrity scheme COPRIS, which is also presented here and is the first such scheme that does not leak any information about the protected data. COPRIS uses information-theoretic hiding commitments for confidentiality-preserving integrity and authenticity protection. LINCOS uses proactive secret sharing for confidential storage of secret data. We also present implementations of COPRIS and LINCOS. A special feature of our LINCOS implementation is the use of quantum key distribution and one-time pad encryption for information-theoretic private channels within the proactive secret sharing protocol. The technological platform for this is the Tokyo QKD Network, which is one of worlds most advanced networks of its kind. Our experimental evaluation establishes the feasibility of LINCOS and shows that in view of the expected progress in quantum communication technology, LINCOS is a promising solution for protecting very sensitive data in the cloud.
RETINAL MORPHOLOGIC CHANGES AND CONCENTRATIONS OF CYTOKINES IN EYES WITH DIABETIC MACULAR EDEMA

Purpose: To determine the relationship between the retinal morphologic changes and concentrations of intravitreal cytokines in eyes with diabetic macular edema. Methods: A retrospective comparative study was performed. The preoperative optical coherence tomography images were evaluated to determine the presence of serous retinal detachments (SRDs), retinal cystic changes, and retinal swelling. The concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-8 in vitreous samples collected during vitrectomy were determined. The correlations between optical coherence tomography parameters, other clinical factors, and the concentration of cytokines were calculated. Results: Fifty-two eyes (52 patients) were investigated. An SRD was found in 19 of the 52 eyes (36.5%). Multivariate regression analysis showed that IL-6 was the only factor significantly associated with the presence of an SRD (P = 0.001; odds ratio, 1.268; 95% confidence interval, 1.105–1.452). The other morphologic changes, such as retinal cystic changes and retinal swellings, were not significantly associated with the concentrations of intravitreal cytokines. Conclusion: The significant association of SRD with intravitreal IL-6 indicates that inflammation may play an important role in the development of SRD in diabetic macular edema.
FOXP3+ T Cells Recruited to Sites of Sterile Skeletal Muscle Injury Regulate the Fate of Satellite Cells and Guide Effective Tissue Regeneration

Muscle injury induces a classical inflammatory response in which cells of the innate immune system rapidly invade the tissue. Macrophages are prominently involved in this response and required for proper healing, as they are known to be important for clearing cellular debris and supporting satellite cell differentiation. Here, we sought to assess the role of the adaptive immune system in muscle regeneration after acute damage. We show that T lymphocytes are transiently recruited into the muscle after damage and appear to exert a pro-myogenic effect on muscle repair. We observed a decrease in the cross-sectional area of regenerating myofibers after injury in Rag2-/- γ-chain-/- mice, as compared to WT controls, suggesting that T cell recruitment promotes muscle regeneration. Skeletal muscle infiltrating T lymphocytes were enriched in CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ cells. Direct exposure of muscle satellite cells to in vitro induced Treg cells effectively enhanced their expansion, and concurrently inhibited their myogenic differentiation. In vivo, the recruitment of Tregs to acutely injured muscle was limited to the time period of satellite expansion, with possibly important implications for situations in which inflammatory conditions persist, such as muscular dystrophies and inflammatory myopathies. We conclude that the adaptive immune system, in particular T regulatory cells, is critically involved in effective skeletal muscle regeneration. Thus, in addition to their well-established role as regulators of the immune/inflammatory response, T regulatory cells also regulate the activity of skeletal muscle precursor cells, and are instrumental for the proper regeneration of this tissue.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HABITAT AREA AND THE DISTRIBUTION OF TIDAL MARSH BIRDS

Abstract To assess the relationship between marsh area and relative abundance of tidal marsh bird species, we surveyed birds on 86 circular plots in 40 salt and brackish tidal marshes in Connecticut. We measured marsh area in two ways: the amount of contiguous marsh vegetation not interrupted by broad barriers (>500 m of open water or >50 m of upland habitat) and by narrow barriers (>30 m of open water or >10 m upland). We determined the relationship between marsh area and the relative abundance of particular species (mean number of individuals per survey plot) with linear or logistic regression. When the broad barrier definition was used, we found that all three species of short grass meadow specialists, Willets (Catoptrophorus semipalmatus), Seaside Sparrows (Ammodramus maritimus), and Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrows (A. caudacutus), were less abundant or absent in survey plots in smaller marshes. The Seaside Sparrow and Willet also showed a significant tendency to be less frequent in smaller marshes when the narrow barrier definition was used. In contrast, species that used a wider range of wetland types, as in the Virginia Rail (Rallus limicola), Marsh Wren (Cistothorus palustris), and Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana), were equally frequent on plots in marshes of different areas. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that fragmentation of marsh systems with artificial habitat causes a decline in the density of short grass meadow specialists in the remaining patches of appropriate habitat.
Semi-supervised GMM and DNN acoustic model training with multi-system combination and confidence re-calibration

We present our study on semi-supervised Gaussian mixture model (GMM) hidden Markov model (HMM) and deep neural network (DNN) HMM acoustic model training. We analyze the impact of transcription quality and data sampling approach on the performance of the resulting model, and propose a multisystem combination and confidence re-calibration approach to improve the transcription inference and data selection. Compared to using a single system recognition result and confidence score, our proposed approach reduces the phone error rate of the inferred transcription by 23.8% relatively when top 60% of data are selected. Experiments were conducted on the mobile short message dictation (SMD) task. For the GMM-HMM model, we achieved 7.2% relative word error rate reduction (WERR) against a well-trained narrow-band fMPE+bMMI system by adding 2100 hours of untranscribed data, and 28.2% relative WERR over a wide-band MLE model trained from transcribed out-of-domain voice search data after adding 10K hours of untranscribed SMD data. For the CD-DNN-HMM model, 11.7% and 15.0% relative WERRs are achieved after adding 1K hours of untranscribed data using random and importance sampling, respectively. We also found using large amount of untranscribed data for pretraining does not help. Index Terms: semi-supervised acoustic model training, system combination, confidence re-calibration, importance sampling
On the optimality of uncoded cache placement

Caching is an effective way to reduce peak-hour network traffic congestion by storing some contents at user's local cache. Maddah-Ali and Niesen (MAN) initiated a fundamental study of caching systems by proposing a scheme (with uncoded cache placement and linear network coding delivery) that is provably optimal to within a factor 4.7. In this paper, when the cache contents and the user demands are fixed, we connect the caching problem to an index coding problem and show the optimality of the MAN scheme under the conditions that (i) the cache placement phase is restricted to be uncoded (i.e, pieces of the files can only copied into the user's cache), and (ii) the number of users is no more than the number of files. As a consequence, further improvements to the MAN scheme are only possible through the use of coded cache placement.
Abstraction preservation and subtyping in distributed languages

In most programming languages, type abstraction is guaranteed by syntactic scoping in a single program, but is not preserved by marshalling during distributed communication. A solution is to generate hash types at compile time that consist of a fingerprint of the source code implementing the data type. These hash types can be tupled with a marshalled value and compared efficiently at unmarshall time to guarantee abstraction safety. In this paper, we extend a core calculus of ML-like modules, functions, distributed communication, and hash types, to integrate structural subtyping, user-declared subtyping between abstract types, and bounded existential types. Our semantics makes two contributions: (1) the explicit tracking of the interaction between abstraction boundaries and subtyping; (2) support for user-declared module upgrades with propagation of the resulting subhashing relation throughout the network during communication. We prove type preservation, progress, determinacy, and erasure for our system.
NATURAL KILLER CELLS AND LYMPHOCYTES INCREASE IN WOMEN WITH BREAST CANCER FOLLOWING MASSAGE THERAPY

Women diagnosed with breast cancer received massage therapy or practiced progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) for 30-min sessions 3 times a week for 5 weeks or received standard treatment. The massage therapy and relaxation groups reported less depressed mood, anxiety, and pain immediately after their first and last sessions. By the end of the study, however, only the massage therapy group reported being less depressed and less angry and having more vigor. Dopamine levels, Natural Killer cells, and lymphocytes also increased from the first to the last day of the study for the massage therapy group. These findings highlight the benefit of these complementary therapies, most particularly massage therapy, for women with breast cancer.
Analysing Post-Editing Performance: Correlations with Years of Translation Experience

Post-editing (PE) is still a new activity for many translators. The lack of training, clear and consistent guidelines and international standards may cause difficulties in the transition from translation to PE. Aiming to gain a better understanding of these difficulties and using data gathered from a pilot project, this paper explores possible correlations between PE performance and previous translation experience. We test a combination of the LISA QA Model and the GALE postediting guidelines as a typology for classifying post-editing changes implemented by six post-editors for French and Spanish (three for each target language). This enables a comparison of the types of changes made for the two target languages. We also measure speed and keyboard/mouse activity and link those to translator experience. The insight gathered may be useful for devising future PE guidelines and training programmes.
Interferometric measurement for improved understanding of boundary effects in micromachined beams

Micromachined beams are commonly used to measure material properties in MEMS. Such measurements are complicated by the fact that boundary effects at the ends of the beams have a significant effect on the properties being measured. In an effort to improve the accuracy and resolution of such measurements, we are conducting a study of support post compliances in cantilever and fixed-fixed beams. Three different support post designs have been analyzed by finite element modeling. The results are then compared to measurements made on actual devices using interferometry. Using this technique, the accuracy of measurements of Young's modulus has been improved. Continuing work will also improve the measurement of residual stress.
Chitosan treatment of wheat seeds induces resistance to Fusarium graminearum and improves seed quality.

Chitosan treatment (2-8 mg/mL) of wheat seeds significantly improved seed germination to recommended seed certification standards (>85%) and vigor at concentrations >4 mg/mL, in two cultivars of spring wheat (Norseman and Max), by controlling seed-borne Fusarium graminearum infection. The germination was <80% in the control and >85% in benomyl- and chitosan-treated seeds. Seed-borne F. graminearum was reduced to >50% at higher chitosan treatments compared to the control. Synthesis of phenolic acids was stimulated in primary leaves following chitosan treatment, and levels of these phenolic acids, especially ferulic acid, increased significantly with increasing chitosan concentration. Lignin content of primary leaves also showed a similar pattern. The synthesis of precursors of lignin such as p-coumaric, ferulic, and sinapic acids and phenolic acids having antimicrobial activity such as benzoic, p-coumaric, caffeic, protocatechuic, chlorogenic, ferulic, and gallic acids was also stimulated by chitosan treatment. The induction of phenolic acids and lignin was significantly lower in cv. Max compared to Norseman. Chitosan also inhibited fungal transmission to the primary roots of germinating seedlings. Results suggest that chitosan controlled seed-borne F. graminearum infection and increased the resistance in seedlings by stimulating the accumulation of phenolics and lignin. Thus, chitosan has a potential for improvement of seed quality and enhancement of crop yields as well as increased value of stored grains for food and feed.
Assessing Colorectal Cancer Screening Knowledge at Tribal Fairs

Introduction Increasing public awareness and knowledge about the need for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening among American Indians is key to reducing health disparities. The objective of this study was to assess Navajo adults' knowledge of CRC risk factors and prevention, CRC screening, and self-reported experience with CRC screening. Methods We collected data generated by a self-administered survey given to Navajo adults, most of whom lived on the reservation. Data were collected at 2 annual tribal fairs in 2006. Fair attendees who visited an exhibit booth completed a CRC knowledge survey. The study design was nonrandomized. Results Of the 285 Navajo adults who participated, most were bilingual (74%) and female (80%). Of the respondents aged 50 years or older, 77% had heard of CRC screening and 28% reported being screened for colon or colorectal cancer. Knowledge was high (mean, 5.78 [standard deviation (SD), 1.28]) (8.0 was the highest possible knowledge score). Respondents with little or no formal schooling had lower scores (mean, 5.4), indicating less knowledge of CRC and associated screening tests than did those with more education (mean, 6.0). Conclusion Among a sample of Navajo adults aged 50 years or older, participants with more education were more likely to be knowledgeable about CRC and to have received screening. This survey, led by a Navajo investigator with Navajo surveyors, revealed a high awareness of CRC and screening, but overall CRC screening was low. CRC education for Navajo adults who have little or no formal schooling should be improved.
miRNA‐23a/27a attenuates muscle atrophy and renal fibrosis through muscle‐kidney crosstalk

The treatment of muscle wasting is accompanied by benefits in other organs, possibly resulting from muscle–organ crosstalk. However, how the muscle communicates with these organs is less understood. Two microRNAs (miRs), miR‐23a and miR‐27a, are located together in a gene cluster and regulate proteins that are involved in the atrophy process. MiR‐23a/27a has been shown to reduce muscle wasting and act as an anti‐fibrotic agent. We hypothesized that intramuscular injection of miR‐23a/27a would counteract both muscle wasting and renal fibrosis lesions in a streptozotocin‐induced diabetic model.
The Determination of Oxidized Proteins and Albumin in Plasma of Chronic Kidney Disease Patients

Background: The study of oxidized proteins in blood of chronic kidney disease patients has been made without taking an initial clinical form of disease into account. The purpose of the research is to study oxidized proteins and albumin in blood plasma of patients with chronic glomerulonephritis and chronic pyelonephritis as an initial clinical form of chronic kidney disease. Methods: Blood plasma taken from 132 patients with various stages of chronic kidney disease and degree of chronic renal failure has been used for investigation. Blood of 32 healthy donors has been used for control testing. In blood plasma, modified proteins (protein reactive carbonyl products, advanced oxidative protein products), and albumin have been estimated. Results: In blood plasma of patients with chronic glomerulonephritis, as an initial clinical form of the chronic kidney disease, the significant increase in all types of oxidized proteins and significant decrease in albumin have been observed, comparing to the control samples. In blood plasma of patients with chronic pyelonephritis, as an initial clinical form of the chronic kidney disease, the significant increase in protein reactive carbonyl products has been observed comparing to the control samples only. Conclusions: the obtained results may unravel new targets for pharmacological intervention at an early stage of chronic kidney disease based on the initial clinical form of the disease
Estradiol use in the luteal phase and its effects on pregnancy rates in IVF cycles with GnRH antagonist: a systematic review

For all the steps of in vitro fertilization to occur successfully, factors such as the quality of retrieved oocytes and endometrial receptivity to the embryo must be ensured. Current studies have shown that endometrial receptivity can be optimized using dedicated exogenous progesterone for luteal phase support in assisted reproduction cycles. But it has not yet been established the benefits of additional use of estradiol in this support. Analyzing pituitary suppression protocols that employ GnRH antagonists, this review will address literature publications between the years 2000-2016, shedding light on this issue to answer questions about the benefits of supplementation.
Synthesis of Novel Mammalian Metabolites of the Isoflavonoid Phytoestrogens Daidzein and Genistein

Abstract The synthesis of novel mammalian metabolites of dietary isoflavones, dihydrodaidzein (4′,7-dihydroxyisoflavanone) 7, 2 dihydrogenistein (4′,5,7-trihydroxy-isoflavanone) 9, 6′-hydroxy-O-demethylangolensin [1-(2,4,6-trihydroxyphenyl)-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propan-1-one] 10, and cis-and trans-4′,7-dihydroxyisoflavan-4-ols 11, 12 is described, and their characteristics by physical and chemical constants given for the first time.
Using simulated presence therapy with people with dementia

Simulated Presence Therapy (SPT) is a relatively new intervention, which has been reported to reduce levels of anxiety and challenging behaviour amongst people with dementia. The intervention consists of playing a tape of their carer's voice to a person with dementia over a personal stereo. This study provides details of the effectiveness of SPT with four in-patients on an assessment ward. The four showed differing levels of response to the SPT tapes. It is suggested that the differing response of participants may be related to their differing attachment styles.
Impact of different analgesic depths and abdominal trauma of different severities on stress and recovery of rats undergoing total intravenous anesthesia

A number of animal models have been developed to examine the pathophysiological consequences of surgical procedures, but anesthetic methods, monitoring, and management measures in these models are very different from those used in humans. This study was designed to create a rat model of abdominal surgery using anesthetic methods and perioperative treatment similar to those used in the clinic and to investigate the effects of different injury severities and depths of anesthesia and analgesia on surgical stress and postoperative recovery. Abdominal skin/muscle incision was compared with exploratory laparotomy in rats under propofol intravenous anesthesia, accompanied by perioperative measures such as oxygen inhalation, fluid infusion, warmth, blood gas analysis, and infection prevention. Stress indices (mean arterial pressure, heart rate, blood glucose, and plasma corticosterone) were monitored during anesthesia and surgery, and recovery indicators (body weight, food consumption, and pain) were measured after surgery. In addition, animals undergoing laparotomy were subjected to low and high dosages of propofol and sufentanil, in order to examine the relationship between anesthetic and analgesic depth and stress on recovery. Exploratory laparotomy induced a greater stress response and caused slower postoperative recovery as measured than somatic injury. High-dose sufentanil downregulated plasma corticosterone and improved postoperative recovery more effectively than high-dose propofol (P<0.05). Taken together, a rat model of abdominal surgery using anesthetic methods and perioperative treatment similar to those used in the clinic was successfully developed. It showed a positive correlation between severity of surgical trauma and stress response and postoperative recovery and a significant role of adequate analgesia in reducing surgical stress and improving postoperative recovery.
Autologous Plasma Rich in Growth Factors Eyedrops in Refractory Cases of Ocular Surface Disorders

Purpose: Preliminary information about the safety and efficacy of plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) eyedrops in the treatment of refractory cases of diverse ocular surface disorders (OSDs) is presented here. Material and Methods: This retrospective cohort study included cases with OSDs refractory to previous treatment with conventional treatments or autologous serum or cyclosporine, and treated with PRGF eyedrops. The signs and symptoms of ocular surface disorders [using the ocular surface disease index (OSDI), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), visual analog scale (VAS) frequency and VAS severity] were evaluated before and after treatment with PRGF. A safety assessment was also performed reporting all adverse events or complications. Results: Forty-one patients with a total of 80 treated eyes were evaluated. Statistically significant reductions in the OSDI scale (39.27%), VAS frequency (38.9%) and VAS severity (40.3%), and a significant improvement in BCVA (54.86%) were all observed (p < 0.05). The results were stratified according to the identified potential effect modifiers. There were only two adverse events (eye redness and eyelid inflammation), which were reported as mild and resolved in a few days. Conclusions: PRGF eyedrops could be a safe and effective treatment option for refractory cases of OSDs. When treating patients the possible influence on the results of some clinical variables must be taken into account.