Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
An in-depth study of adaptive random testing for testing program with complex input types

Adaptive random testing (ART) is a testing method aimed to improve the performance of random testing. The initial studies of ART merely focussed on programs with numeric input type. However, real life software involves more complex types of inputs. This thesis examines the application of ART on programs with complex input types. Firstly, the application of a distance-based ART technique, namely FSCS-ART, on real programs with complex input types is conducted. This is an extension of two previous studies which developed new approaches to apply FSCS-ART on such programs. However, those studies have not applied the approaches to test any real programs. Here, they are applied to test four real programs with such input types. An exclusion-based ART, namely Restricted Random Testing (RRT), has been demostrated effective to test programs with numeric input type. We are motivated to also apply RRT on programs with complex input types. Some new approaches are introduced to adjust the use of RRT on such programs. Previous studies of ART have identified the regularity of failure causing inputs (FCIs), which are inputs that cause a program under test fails, in the numeric context. They have also observed how ART techniques behaved towards the identified patterns. This thesis investigates the extension of the study to more complex input types. Using the results of the relevant experiments in this thesis, we investigate the FCI patterns in a program with complex input types and analyse how the ART techniques behave towards the identified patterns. When applying ART, the existence of a test oracle is required to identify the detection of failures. Test oracle is more difficult to obtain when the program under test has more complex input types. Therefore, in this thesis we propose the use of Metamorphic Testing (MT) as the test oracle for applying ART on a program with complex input types. We examine how effective is MT compared to a test oracle which has been commonly used in previous ART studies. At last, an application of ART on other area of testing is conducted. We apply ART as the source test case selection strategy of MT. We investigate how effective ART compared to RT in selecting the source test cases of the implemented metamorphic relations.
Simulation of Next Generation Sequencing Short Reads for Mutation Spectrum Analysis

Next generation sequencing (NGS) of mutant reporter transgenes is increasingly being used for mutation spectrum analysis (MSA) to characterize the genomic effects of mutagens. The ability to simulate NGS-MSA experimental data will permit the tuning of various parameters in the downstream analysis pipeline. However, no simulator currently exists that is capable of producing the read depths (up to 100,000x) required for MSA experiments. In this study, we introduce MutSim, a short read mutation simulator that enables researchers to generate NGS data for simulated samples exposed to a mutagen. MutSim generates data following the Ion Proton™ instrument error model and also a mutational model of a given mutagen. MutSim is shown to be highly scalable both with respect to genome length and read depth coverage. MutSim simulated data is validated against real experimental data in several aspects including genotype content, quality scores, read depth coverage and read length.
Digital citizenship through game design in Minecraft

Purpose – This study aims to describe a library project exploring innovative options for embedding information literacy skills in the elementary school library by utilizing Minecraft, a virtual world three-dimensional (3D) building game environment. Design/methodology/approach – The small-scale descriptive study, with a follow-up survey, focuses on a group of fifth-grade students in an after-school technology club facilitated by the school librarian. The students designed and built a 3D virtual world library game for younger students to help them learn digital citizenship and information literacy. Findings – Analysis of observations, interviews and videos indicated that students were highly engaged in learning information literacy elements throughout all stages of the project from design, building, implementation and testing of younger students. Research limitations/implications – Although the small number of students enrolled in the club is a limitation, the feedback provided strong evidence of motivatio.
MIS - The Human Connection

The lessons of the 70's with MIS were largely painful, often the same as those of the 60's, and were found in different phases on two continents. On examination this turns out to be true for many non-medical fields, true for systems programming, and thus a very general phenomenon. It is related to the functional complexity rather than to the sheer size of the software required, and above all to the relative neglect of human factors at all levels of software and hardware design. Simple hierarchical theory is a useful tool for analyzing complex systems and restoring the necessary dominance of common sense human factors. An example shows the very large effects of neglecting these factors on costs and benefits of MIS and their sub-systems.
Effect of denaturant and protein concentrations upon protein refolding and aggregation: A simple lattice model

We present a study of the competition between protein refolding and aggregation for simple lattice model proteins. The effect of solvent conditions (i.e., the denaturant concentration and the protein concentration) on the folding and aggregation behavior of a system of simple, two‐dimensional lattice protein molecules has been investigated via dynamic Monte Carlo simulations. The population profiles and aggregation propensities of the nine most populated intermediate configurations exhibit a complex dependence on the solution conditions that can be understood by considering the competition between intra‐ and interchain interactions. Some of these configurations are not even seen in isolated chain simulations; they are observed to be highly aggregation prone and are stabilized primarily by the aggregation reaction in multiple‐chain systems. Aggregation arises from the association of partially folded intermediates rather than from the association of denatured random‐coil states. The aggregation reaction dominates over the folding reaction at high protein concentration and low denaturant concentration, resulting in low refolding yields at those conditions. However, optimum folding conditions exist at which the refolding yield is a maximum, in agreement with some experimental observations.
Genre, academic writing and e-learning: An integrated tertiary level Taiwan-based study

The research reported here has two main focus points: online learning and the teaching of academic writing to learners of English as an additional language. At its core is a study involving an intensive genre-centered writing course conducted in a tertiary educational institution in Taiwan and delivered in three modes – face-to-face, fully online and blended. That study, preceded by a pilot study conducted in New Zealand, involved a writing course that focused on cognitive genres (e.g. argument) that have been identified as being fundamental to academic writing. It included model texts (constructed in segments with accompanying discussion of their language and structure) and writing exercises. Analysis of post-course questionnaires and focus group discussions revealed a high level of satisfaction with the course. Analysis of pre-test and post-test writing tasks in terms of a wide range of criteria provided evidence of improvement in the writing of course participants in a range of areas. Although those involved in blended and face-to-face modes were most positive about the advantages of the course, it was not necessarily always the case that they outperformed online group members in terms of improvement in writing. Also included are two questionnaire-based surveys of samples of teachers of English in tertiary level educational institutions in Taiwan. The first investigated attitudes and practices in relation to the integration of instructional technology into teaching. Although the vast majority of survey participants believed that it was important to incorporate instructional technology into their teaching, this was not necessarily reflected in their more specific beliefs and practices. Very few reported having spent more than a few hours attending instructional technology-related workshops, more than half indicated that very little or none of the interaction in their language classes was computer-mediated, only approximately one third reported having used a learning platform in the six weeks prior to the survey, and over one third reported that they had never used a learning platform. The second questionnaire-based survey investigated attitudes and practices in relation to the teaching and assessment of writing. Although survey participants were familiar with process-centered approaches to the
Childcare and early years providers survey 2011

The Department for Education commissioned TNS BMRB to conduct the Childcare and Early Years Providers Survey, collecting information about childcare and early years provision across England in 2011. The survey collected information on the number and characteristics of providers, and about the children enrolled with them. It also examined the workforce’s composition and qualifications, and the way in which the providers operate from a business perspective.
A Study to Assess the Association of Aseptic Practices Being Followed and its Effect on the Overall Outcome of Selected Special Care Newborn Units (SCNUs) of Madhya Pradesh at Different Levels

The neonatal mortality rate in India is high and stagnant. Special Care Newborn Units (SCNUs) have been set up at different levels of Health Care Delivery System to provide quality newborn-care services in several hospitals to meet this challenge. Many units are located in the districts where the burden of neonatal deaths is high, and access to special newborn care is poor. The study was conducted to assess the functioning of SCNUs in six centers of India. The evaluation was based on an analysis of secondary data from the six units that had been functioning for at least three year. A cross-sectional survey was also conducted to assess the availability of Quality care and Aseptic practices implemented at different levels of SNCUs. Descriptive statistics were used for analyzing the inputs (Quality care and aseptic practices) and outcomes (morbidity and mortality). The rate of mortality among admitted neonates was taken as the key outcome variable to assess the performance of the units. Chi-square test was used for analyzing the trend of case-fatality rate over a period of 3 years considering the first year of operationalization as the base. Correlation coefficients were estimated to understand the possible association of case-fatality rate with factors, such as bed:doctor ratio, bed:nurse ratio, average duration of stay, and bed occupancy rate, and the asepsis score was determined. The rates of admission increased from a median of 16.7 per 100 deliveries in 2012 to 19.5 per 100 deliveries in 2014. The case-fatality rate shows progressive decline in all the units in Last 3 years. Proportional mortality due to sepsis and low birthweight (LBW) declined significantly over two years (LBW <2.5 kg). The major reasons for admission and the major causes of deaths were birth asphyxia, sepsis, and LBW/prematurity. The units had a varying nurse:bed ratio (1:1-1:2.14). The bed occupancy rate ranged from 83% to 121% (median 115%), and the average duration of stay ranged from three days to 8 days (median 5 days). It is possible to set up and manage quality SCNUs and improve the survival of newborns with LBW and sepsis in developing countries, although several challenges relating to human resources, maintenance of equipment, and maintenance of asepsis remain.
The Development of Student Research Skills in Second Year Plant Biology

In 2011, students in Agricultural Sciences and Viticulture & Oenology were first provided with opportunities to develop research skills in plant biology through the course Foundations in Plant Science II. Students worked in small groups and completed an open-ended research project under the guidance of an academic mentor. Each group of students were given the freedom to plan and manage an experiment; collect, analyse and interpret data independently and to present their results both orally and in writing. Students reported that the group project was a positive experience where they were able to develop skills in scientific report writing. In 2012, students were challenged by aspects of the research project including experimental design and identifying published papers to support their hypotheses. In 2013, when we provided more support and structure using on-line and in-class tutorials, students were better able to work in groups, source appropriate literature and analyse data using statistics as their confidence in research and questioning ideas had improved.
Clinical Aspects of Central Obesity at a Public Clinic

Background: The relation between central obesity epidemic and food consumption strategies has drawn attention towards understanding its complexity. The aim of our study is to evaluate clinical and nutritional aspects of women with central obesity in Salvador, Bahia. Methods: The study was done in 89 adult women with waist circumference > 84 cm after individualized outpatient consultations for 48 months (2012 - 2015). Direct interviews were performed with the application of three R24h recalls to evaluation of food consumption in relation to macronutrients, fiber and energy. The biochemical variables were determined in the blood collected with a 12-h fasting period. Results: There was a significant reduction in the waistline circumference baseline and final values, associated to a reduction in body fat percentage and a significant increase in body water. A significant reduction was observed in the consumption of carbohydrates in parallel to an increase in the consumption of fibers and 55 times in the percentage of consumption of lipids, in addition to a significant reduction in the baseline and final values of glycosylated hemoglobin, fasting glycemia and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Conclusions: It was observed that outpatient care with emphasis in the quality of the diet was capable of reducing anthropometric and clinical variables attributed to the development of illnesses associated with central obesity. J Endocrinol Metab. 2018;8(4):69-75 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jem516w
Nutrition and growth in children with chronic renal insufficiency

Practical joint dietetic/medical guidelines are required for children with differing levels of severity of chronic renal insufficiency (CRI). This thesis describes the current dietetic/medical package of care provided within a specialised paediatric renal unit, and provides an insight into considerations for future clinical guidelines. Children were grouped at baseline following [51Cr]-labelled EDTA glomerular filtration rate (GFR, m1/min/1.73m2) estimations, into 'normal' kidney function [GFR > 75, mean 106 (SD 19.5), n=58], providing baseline data only, mild (GFR 51-75, n=27), moderate (GFR 25-50, n=21) and severe (GFR < 25, n=19) CRI. Those with CRI were followed for two years and 51 children completed the study (19 mild, 19 moderate, 13 severe CRI). Baseline and 6 monthly measurements of anthropometry, blood pressure, laboratory investigations and yearly dietary intakes (3-day semi-quantitative diaries) were obtained. EDTA GFR's were compared to estimations of GFR using serum cystatin C and plasma creatinine/height concentrations. Amongst the findings, mean standard deviation scores (SDS) for all anthropometric markers deteriorated with worsening renal function at baseline, from mean SDS for weight, height, body mass index and mid upper arm circumference in 'normal' children of O.28 (SD 1.0), 0.19 (SD 1.0),0.21 (SD 1.1) and 0.39 (SD 1.0) respectively, to values of -1.32 (SD 1.0), -1.55 (SD 1.1), -0.44 (SD 1.1) and -0.58 (SD 0.9) in severe CRI. Over two years, mean height SDS significantly increased in children with severe CRI (p=0.003) and was maintained in mild and moderate CRI, despite deterioration in renal function. Correlation between changes in energy intake and height SDS was observed in severe CRI (r2=0.5, p=0.001). From individual observations and correlation, higher phosphate and sodium intakes appeared to be associated with greater deterioration in estimated GFR in children with mild CRI. An inverse correlation between calcium intake and plasma parathyroid hormone was observed in severe CRI (r2=0.27, p=0.065). Disturbances in nutritional intakes, bone biochemistry and growth occurred early in the course of CRI and deterioration in renal function, as determined by estimated GPR, was greatest in those with mild CRI. Regular joint dietetic/medical intervention is likely to be beneficial in children with mild and moderate CRI, in addition to those with more severe CRI, to both correct initial disturbances and reduce the chances of progression.
Evaluation of Peripheral Neuropathy in Diabetic Adults with and without Foot Ulcers in an African Population

Background: Foot ulcers frequently precede lower extremity amputations (LEA) in diabetic subjects. Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a strong risk factor for diabetic foot ulceration. Majority of diabetic patients with PN are asymptomatic; hence foot ulceration may be the first clinical presentation. Early detection of PN can forestall the development of foot ulcers through active preventive strategies. Few studies have been done to assess PN in diabetic individuals in Africa. The study aims to evaluate the incidence and risk factors for PN in diabetic adults with and without foot ulcers in an indigenous African population. Method: This cross-sectional study involved 90 diabetic adults, 45 with foot ulcers and 45 without foot ulcers. Assessment of PN was done with the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI), the 10 g Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (SWM) and the 128-Hz vibrating tuning fork (VTF). Demographic data were collected by questionnaire. Associations between PN and risk factors such as age, alcohol consumption, duration of diabetes, cigarette smoking, BMI, height and sex were also investigated. Results: There were 59 males (65.6%) and 31 females (34.4%) in the study. The mean age of the subjects with foot ulcers was 59.62 years (SD = 6.47), while those without ulcers was 57.47 years (SD = 6.94). Forty-two subjects (93.33%) with foot ulcers have PN using the MNSI, while 33 subjects without foot ulcers (73.33%) have PN. Both the SWM and the VTF showed a high positive correlation with themselves and with the MNSI. Advancing age, duration of diabetes, alcohol intake, hyperglycaemia and cigarette smoking showed a significant association with peripheral neuropathy, while BMI, height and sex did not. Conclusion: The incidence of PN is quite high in diabetic adults in Africa. This calls for early screening and aggressive control of risk factors to prevent the development of diabetic foot ulceration.
Treatment of Children with Anorectal Malformations—10-Year Review

Introduction: Anorectal malformations include a wide spectrum of congenital defects of the anus, anal canal and rectum, which are often combined with urogenital tract defects. They are often associated with congenital anomalies of other organ systems such as genitourinary, cardiovascular, digestive, skeletal, etc. Objectives: This study aimed to review the patients with anorectal malformations, diagnosis, different types of associated anomalies and their frequency, modalities of treatment, results of treatment and complications. Materials and Methods: Since 2010, we have performed a combined retrospective and prospective analysis of a total of 76 patients with anorectal malformations which were diagnosed and treated at our clinic between 2005 and 2014. Results: Of 76 patients with anorectal malformations, 48 were male (63.16%) and 28 female (36.84%). Anal stenosis was the commonest type (30.26%) followed by ARM without fistula (25.00%) and rectourethral fistula (18.42%). The most common associated anomalies were urogenital (49.12%), cardiovascular (21.05%), gastrointestinal (15.79%), and bone malformations (5.26%). 34 patients (44.74%) were treated primarily without colostomy. In 40 patients (52.63%) colostomy was performed after birth. PSARP was the procedure of choice in 76.92% of patients. 7 patients (9.21%) died in total. Constipation was present in 52.38% of all patients. Patients older than 3 years of age totally continent were 30.91%. Redo operations were performed in 5 patients (7.94%). Conclusion: Early diagnosis of anorectal malformations is very important. Some malformations such as anal stenosis are sometimes diagnosed beyond the neonatal age. Challenging problem still remains high percentage of children that suffer from fecal incontinence and constipation.
Passion for Learning: How Project-Based Learning Meets the Needs of 21st Century Students

Chapter 1 Foreword Chapter 2 Preface Chapter 3 Acknowledgments Chapter 4 Chapter One: What is Project-Based Learning? Chapter 5 Chapter Two: What Is Learning? Chapter 6 Chapter Three: What Shall We Assess and How Shall We Assess It? Chapter 7 Chapter Four: What Is the Role of the Teacher? Chapter 8 Chapter Five: What Should the School Look Like? Chapter 9 Chapter Six: How Does the Project Process Work? Chapter 10 Chapter Seven: What Do Projects Look Like and How Do They Affect the Learners? Chapter 11 Chapter Eight: Can You Overcome the Obstacles? Chapter 12 Appendix A: 2001-2002 Project Proposal Form Chapter 13 Appendix B: Performance Rubric for Minnesota New Country School Chapter 14 Appendix C: Project Check List Chapter 15 Appendix D: Presentation & Exhibition Evaluation Form for Minnesota New Country School Chapter 16 References and Suggested Readings Chapter 17 About the Author
Efficient Checkpointing with Recompute Scheme for Non-volatile Main Memory

Future main memory will likely include Non-Volatile Memory. Non-Volatile Main Memory (NVMM) provides an opportunity to rethink checkpointing strategies for providing failure safety to applications. While there are many checkpointing and logging schemes in the literature, their use must be revisited as they incur high execution time overheads as well as a large number of additional writes to NVMM, which may significantly impact write endurance. In this article, we propose a novel recompute-based failure safety approach and demonstrate its applicability to loop-based code. Rather than keeping a fully consistent logging state, we only log enough state to enable recomputation. Upon a failure, our approach recovers to a consistent state by determining which parts of the computation were not completed and recomputing them. Effectively, our approach removes the need to keep checkpoints or logs, thus reducing execution time overheads and improving NVMM write endurance at the expense of more complex recovery. We compare our new approach against logging and checkpointing on five scientific workloads, including tiled matrix multiplication, on a computer system model that was built on gem5 and supports Intel PMEM instruction extensions. For tiled matrix multiplication, our recompute approach incurs an execution time overhead of only 5%, in contrast to 8% overhead with logging and 207% overhead with checkpointing. Furthermore, recompute only adds 7% additional NVMM writes, compared to 111% with logging and 330% with checkpointing. We also conduct experiments on real hardware, allowing us to run our workloads to completion while varying the number of threads used for computation. These experiments substantiate our simulation-based observations and provide a sensitivity study and performance comparison between the Recompute Scheme and Naive Checkpointing.