Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Activating Mutation of the Renal Epithelial Chloride Channel ClC-Kb Predisposing to Hypertension

The chloride channel ClC-Kb is expressed in the basolateral cell membrane of the distal nephron and participates in renal NaCl reabsorption. Loss-of-function mutations of ClC-Kb lead to classic Bartter syndrome, a rare salt-wasting disorder. Recently, we identified the ClC-KbT481S polymorphism, which confers a strong gain-of-function effect on the ClC-Kb chloride channel. The present study has been performed to explore the prevalence of the mutation and its functional significance in renal salt handling and blood pressure regulation. As evident from electrophysiological analysis with the 2-electrode voltage-clamp technique, heterologous expression of ClC-KbT481S in Xenopus oocytes gave rise to a current that was 7-fold larger than the current produced by wild-type ClC-Kb. The prevalence of the mutant allele was significantly higher in an African population from Ghana (22%) than in whites (12%). As tested in 1 white population, carriers of ClC-KbT481S were associated with significantly higher systolic (by ≈6.0 mm Hg) and diastolic (by ≈4.2 mm Hg) blood pressures and significantly higher prevalence (45% versus 25%) of hypertensive (≥140/90 mm Hg) blood pressure levels. Individuals carrying ClC-KbT481S had significantly higher plasma Na+ concentrations and significantly decreased glomerular filtration rate. In conclusion, the mutation ClC-KbT481S of the renal epithelial Cl− channel ClC-Kb strongly activates ClC-Kb chloride channel function in vitro and may predispose to the development of essential hypertension in vivo.
Computational Philosophy of Science

By applying research in artificial intelligence to problems in the philosophy of science, Paul Thagard develops an exciting new approach to the study of scientific reasoning. He uses computational ideas to shed light on how scientific theories are discovered, evaluated, and used in explanations. He describes a detailed computational model of problem solving and discovery that provides a conceptually rich yet rigorous alternative to accounts of scientific knowledge based on formal logic. The model is used to illuminate such topics as the nature of concepts, hypothesis formation, analogy, and theory justification.Following a critique of the alternative account of scientific development offered by evolutionary epistemology, Thagard discusses philosophical issues concerning reasoning, truth, and the justification of scientific methods. He applies his general conclusions about science and pseudoscience to the fields of psychology and artificial intelligence, and explores the potential relevance of computational models to our understanding of the interrelations of theory and experiment and of the importance of group rationality in science. "Computational Philosophy of Science" has been made accessible to readers from different disciplines through an appendix that includes tutorials on essential philosophical, computational, and psychological topics.Paul Thagard is a research scientist at the Princeton University Cognitive Science Laboratory. He is coauthor, with John H. Holland, Keith J. Holyoak, and Richard E. Nisbett, of "Induction: Processes of Inference, Learning, and Discovery (MIT Press/Bradford Books). A Bradford Book.
English Pronouncing Dictionary

A major new edition of the classic guide to English pronunciation: *Over 18, 000 new entries added *Full coverage of North American pronunciation *New, clearer layout *Stress patterns of thousands of compounds and idioms Areas of coverage have been selected to reflect today's interests and needs, and, as well as general vocabulary, include: *People: from ancient times to people in the news today *Places: thousands of British and US place names as well as major towns and cities of the world *Science and technology: including computing, medicine and communications * Literature: authors, place names and characters from major works of literature *Encyclopedic: religions, philosophies, historic events All pronunciations use the International Phonetic Alphabet.
Near-optimum control of multiple access collision channels

A method based on recursive computation of the expected number of attempts and successes during the collision resolution phase of a protocol is introduced for the design of near-optimum protocols for multiple access collision channels with ternary and binary feedback. With this approach it is possible to circumvent the extremely difficult and still unsolved problem of finding the protocol which achieves the highest throughput among all protocols by settling for a near-optimum solution. The key to the design of the protocols is to approximate the originally infinite-dimensional optimization problem by a one-dimensional optimization problem. In the ternary feedback the proposed protocol achieves a throughput virtually identical to the highest throughput reported today. Several forms of binary feedback are considered, and protocols are introduced that achieve the highest throughput of any known protocols. <<ETX>>
A magnitude/phase locked-loop approach to parameter estimation of periodic signals

Presents a parameter estimator that is designed to estimate the frequencies, magnitudes, and phases of the components of a periodic signal. The structure of the algorithm is reminiscent of phase-locked loops, although significant differences can be observed. The performance of the estimator is analyzed, and useful design guidelines are provided. The results are verified in simulations, and the algorithm is found to be effective for parameter estimation and tracking of time-varying characteristics of the incoming sign despite its simplicity.
Teaching gender studies via open and distance learning in South Africa

The University of South Africa (UNISA) has recently redesigned its honors degree in Gender Studies. The course design team members have been mindful of three key factors while redesigning this degree. First, we are aligning our course design with the demands of open and distance learning (ODL) and UNISA’s institutional move to online delivery of all teaching materials. Second, we are guided by the theoretical principles of feminist pedagogy. Third, we are committed to producing graduates who can take on the challenge of being gender change agents in a country with an escalating rate of gender-based violence. This article charts the development of the Gender Studies curricular initiative at UNISA with reference to the pedagogical insights provided by feminist scholarship on teaching, learning, and technology. We hope that our experience will provide insight into the parameters and process of creating an effective program in Gender Studies within an ODL context.
Multipath channel modeling with chaotic attractors

Previous works have introduced models based on deterministic chaos equations, aiming to simulate transmission processes over mobile radio digital channels at the level of the post detection error stochastic process and to reproduce their renewal or nonrenewal behaviors. In particular bursts and clusters of errors are generated by these models, exploiting the correlation between successive points sampled from the trajectories of suitable strange attractors. In this paper chaos equation models are reviewed and relevant results are discussed. Different approaches have been tested, using one or more attractors, and calling for light or heavy preprocess procedures to cope with the statistical characteristics of target gap-time series. Models derived from hidden Markov chains have been implemented to provide comparison of results. Target sequences were supplied by simulation of digital enhanced cordless telecommunications (DECT) channels or derived from reception of DECT signals by a mobile unit in indoor environments.
Optimal placement and routing strategies for resilient two-tiered sensor networks

In hierarchical sensor networks using relay nodes, sensor nodes are arranged in clusters and higher powered relay nodes can be used as cluster heads. The lifetime of such a network is determined primarily by the lifetime of the relay nodes. In this paper, we propose two new integer linear programs (ILPs) formulations for optimal data gathering, which maximize the lifetime of the upper tier relay node network. Unlike most previous approaches considered in the literature, our formulations can generate optimal solutions under the non-flow-splitting model. Experimental results demonstrate that our approach can significantly extend network lifetime, compared to traditional routing schemes, for the non-flow-splitting model. The lifetime can be further enhanced by periodic updates of the routing strategy based on the residual energy at each relay node. The proposed rescheduling scheme can be used to handle single or multiple relay node failures. We have also presented a very simple and straightforward algorithm for the placement of relay nodes. The placement algorithm guarantees that all the sensor nodes can communicate with at least one relay node and that the relay node network is at least 2-connected. This means that failure of a single relay node will not disconnect the network, and data may be routed around the failed node. The worst case performance of the placement algorithm is bounded by a constant with respect to any optimum placement algorithm. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forest attribute imputation using machine-learning methods and ASTER data: comparison of k-NN, SVR and random forest regression algorithms

In a small case study of mixed hardwood Hyrcanian forests of Iran, three non-parametric methods, namely k-nearest neighbour (k-NN), support vector machine regression (SVR) and tree regression based on random forest (RF), were used in plot-level estimation of volume/ha, basal area/ha and stems/ha using field inventory and Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) data. Relevant pre-processing and processing steps were applied to the ASTER data for geometric and atmospheric correction and for enhancing quantitative forest parameters. After collecting terrestrial information on trees in the 101 samples, the volume, basal area and tree number per hectare were calculated in each plot. In the k-NN implementation using different distance measures and k, the cross-validation method was used to find the best distance measure and optimal k. In SVR, the best regularized parameters of four kernel types were obtained using leave-one-out cross-validation. RF was implemented using a bootstrap learning method with regularized parameters for decision tree model and stopping. The validity of performances was examined using unused test samples by absolute and relative root mean square error (RMSE) and bias metrics. In volume/ha estimation, the results showed that all the three algorithms had similar performances. However, SVR and RF produced better results than k-NN with relative RMSE values of 28.54, 25.86 and 26.86 (m3 ha–1), respectively, using k-NN, SVR and RF algorithms, but RF could generate unbiased estimation. In basal area/ha and stems/ha estimation, the implementation results of RF showed that RF was slightly superior in relative RMSE (18.39, 20.64) to SVR (19.35, 22.09) and k-NN (20.20, 21.53), but k-NN could generate unbiased estimation compared with the other two algorithms used.
Metformin Improves Endothelial Vascular Reactivity in First-Degree Relatives of Type 2 Diabetic Patients With Metabolic Syndrome and Normal Glucose Tolerance

OBJECTIVE—Endothelial dysfunction is an early marker of atherosclerosis seen in type 2 diabetic subjects. Metformin is commonly used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and has known vasculoprotective effects beyond its hypoglycemic ones. We aimed to investigate the vascular effects of metformin in first-degree relatives with metabolic syndrome of type 2 diabetic patients. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—The study included 31 subjects (age 38.3 ± 7.6 years and BMI 36.3 ± 5.2 kg/m2), who were first-degree relatives of type 2 diabetic patients and who had metabolic syndrome and normal glucose tolerance. The subjects were randomly assigned 1:1 in a double-blind fashion to receive placebo (n = 15) or metformin (n = 16). Endothelial function was assessed by venous occlusion plethysmography, measuring forearm blood flow (FBF) and vascular resistance responses to three intra-arterial infusions of endothelium-dependent (acetylcholine 7.5, 15, and 30 μg/min) and independent (sodium nitroprusside 2, 4, and 8 μg/min) vasodilators. Weight, BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, waist, and laboratory parameters (lipid profile and fasting plasma glucose [FPG]) were assessed at baseline and after treatment. RESULTS—The metformin and placebo groups did not differ in anthropometric, clinical, laboratory, and vascular measurements at baseline. The metformin group had decreased weight, BMI, systolic blood pressure, and FPG and improved lipid profile. Endothelium-dependent FBF responses were also improved, without any effect on endothelium-independent responses. There was no correlation between the improvement on FBF responses and the observed changes on anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory parameters. CONCLUSIONS—We concluded that metformin improved vascular endothelial reactivity in first-degree relatives with metabolic syndrome of type 2 diabetic patients, independently of its known antihyperglycemic effects.
Technophobia and the Effective Use of Library Resources at the College/University Level

Technology has been integrated into academia. The 21st century learner will be a life-long learner and students need to be comfortable and familiar with computers and technology. Computers are part of the educational environment independent of the different learning styles of the students. Regardless of the major field of study elected by a student, the use of library resources is necessary. Library technophobia is a fear of using a library because of the technology involved. This article addresses different groups who may suffer from library technophobia, the reasons they are anxious, and positive steps that can be taken to ameliorate this stumbling block to academic success.
An adaptive whitened matched filter

An adaptive procedure for updating the coefficients of a fractionally spaced or diversity channel whitened matched filter (WMF) is presented. By exploiting the minimum phase and noise whitening properties of the WMF, a dual-multichannel estimation problem is formulated. This estimation problem is then solved using Kalman filter techniques. The WMF is thus developed directly from an estimate of the channel impulse response. Simulation results are presented to demonstrate that this technique provides a causal approximation to the WMF. <<ETX>>
[Translation and validation of the Spanish version of the EAT-10 (Eating Assessment Tool-10) for the screening of dysphagia].

RATIONALE The Eating Assessment Tool-10 (EAT-10) is a self-administered, analogical, direct-scoring screening tool for dysphagia. OBJECTIVE To translate and adapt the EAT-10 into Spanish, and to evaluate its psychometric properties. METHODS After the translation and back-translation process of the EAT-10 ES, a prospective study was performed in adult patients with preserved cognitive and functional abilities. Patients in 3 clinical situations, diagnosed with dysphagia (DD), patients at risk of dysphagia (RD), and patients not at risk of dysphagia (SRD) were recruited from 3 settings: a hospital Nutritional Support Unit (USN), a nursing home (RG) and primary care centre (CAP). Patients completed the EAT-10 ES during a single visit. Both patients and researchers completed a specific questionnaire regarding EAT-10 ES' comprehension. RESULTS 65 patients were included (age 75 ± 9.1 y), 52.3% women. Mean time of administration was 3.8 ± 1.7 minutes. 95.4% of patients considered that all tool items were comprehensible and 72.3% found it easy to assign scores. EAT-10 ES' internal consistency, Cronbach's Alpha coefficient was 0.87. A high correlation was observed between all tool items and global scores (p < 0.001). Mean score for patients in group DD was 15 ± 8.9 points, 6.7 ± 7.7 points in group RD, and 2 ± 3.1 points in group SRD. Male patients, previously diagnosed of dysphagia or patients from the NSU showed significantly higher scores on the EAT-10 ES (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION EAT-10 ES has proven to be reliable, valid and to have internal consistency. Is it an easy-to-understand tool that can be completed quickly, making it useful for the screening of dysphagia in routine clinical practice.
Online Mental Training: Making it Available for the Masses

Mental training for athletic performance has expanded in recent years but expense and access has limited its application. Although there is much information on the Internet, no programs offered individualized, automated training that could be easily accessed by the masses. This article describes the creation of an online platform that addresses these obstacles while maintaining the essence of the 1-to-1 client–professional relationship at an affordable cost. Resources include PowerPoint presentations with voiceovers, interviews with expert sport psychology professionals, “whiteboard” presentations of mental skills, and “simulations” taking the athlete through different scenarios, along with innovative coach and parent education programs.
Retrospective evaluation of the accuracy of Roche AccuChek Inform and Nova StatStrip glucose meters when used on critically ill patients.

Abstract Background: More stringent accuracy guidelines for hospital-use glucose meters have recently been published, but it remains unclear whether glucose meters can meet these accuracy guidelines when measurement is performed on critically ill patients with fresh whole blood samples. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective evaluation of a conventional (Roche Diagnostics [Indianapolis, IN] AccuChek® Inform) and a newer-generation (Nova Biomedical [Waltham, MA] StatStrip®) glucose system by comparing paired (drawn within 5 min of each other) whole blood glucose meter and laboratory serum glucose values obtained from intensive care unit (ICU) patients. We also performed a prospective evaluation of the accuracy of the Nova StatStrip. Results: The median (interquartile range) bias between Roche AccuChek Inform and serum laboratory glucose measurements was 11 (6–18) mg/dL, compared with a median bias between the Nova StatStrip and serum glucose measurements of 1 (−5 to 5) mg/dL. StatStrip met Int.
Values of Non-Atomic Games

The "Shapley value" of a finite multi- person game associates to each player the amount he should be willing to pay to participate. This book extends the value concept to certain classes of non-atomic games, which are infinite-person games in which no individual player has significance. It is primarily a book of mathematics-a study of non-additive set functions and associated linear operators. Originally published in 1974. The Princeton Legacy Library uses the latest print-on-demand technology to again make available previously out-of-print books from the distinguished backlist of Princeton University Press. These editions preserve the original texts of these important books while presenting them in durable paperback and hardcover editions. The goal of the Princeton Legacy Library is to vastly increase access to the rich scholarly heritage found in the thousands of books published by Princeton University Press since its founding in 1905.
Twelve-Month and Lifetime Health Service use in Te Rau Hinengaro: The New Zealand Mental Health Survey

Objective: To estimate the 12 month and lifetime use of health services for mental health problems. Method: A nationwide face-to-face household survey carried out in 2003–2004. A fully structured diagnostic interview, the World Health Organization Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI 3.0) was used. There were 12 992 completed interviews from participants aged 16 years and over. The overall response rate was 73.3%. In this paper, the outcomes reported are 12 month and lifetime health service use for mental health and substance use problems. Results: Of the population, 13.4% had a visit for a mental health reason in the 12 months before interview. Of all 12 month cases of mental disorder, 38.9% had a mental health visit to a health or non-health-care provider in the past 12 months. Of these 12 month cases, 16.4% had contact with a mental health specialist, 28.3% with a general medical provider, 4.8% within the human services sector and 6.9% with a complementary or alternative medicine practitioner. Most people with lifetime disorders eventually made contact if their disorder continued. However, the percentages seeking help at the age of onset were small for most disorders and several disorders had large percentages who never sought help. The median duration of delay until contact varies from 1 year for major depressive disorder to 38 years for specific phobias. Conclusions: A significant unmet need for treatment for people with mental disorder exists in the New Zealand community, as in other comparable countries.
Facteurs de risque cardio-vasculaire dans la communauté urbaine de Tlemcen (Algérie)

Les facteurs de risque cardio-vasculaire ont ete decrits dans un echantillon representatif de la communaute urbaine de Tlemcen. Les donnees de l’enquete epidemiologique ont ete recueillies aupres d’un echantillon aleatoire de 805 personnes âgees de 20 ans et plus (taux de participation de 72 %). Cette etude a montre une prevalence de l’hypertension arterielle de 32,7 %, du diabete de 16,1 %, du tabagisme de 17,1 % (36,8 % chez les hommes), de l’hypercholesterolemie > 6,2 mmoles/L (6,3 %) et de l’obesite de 19,2 % (significativement plus frequente chez les femmes : 27,9 %). Ces resultats montrent que la prevalence de l’hypertension est une des plus elevees chez les femmes et qu’elle se situe au niveau des prevalences des pays industrialises.
Enhancing learners’ self-directed use of technology for language learning: the effectiveness of an online training platform

Enhancing self-directed use of technology for language learning is essential for maximizing the potential of technology for language learning. Understanding how to construct learner training to promote this critical competency is of great significance. This study examined the effectiveness of an online training platform aimed at enhancing the willingness and necessary knowledge and skill set of learners to engage in self-directed use of technology for language learning through equipping them with the pedagogical rationales for self-directed technology use for learning, the strategic base for matching technology selection with learning goals and processes, and the tactics for using technological resources and tools effectively for language learning. A group of undergraduate students participated in the 12-week training. Analyses of students’ survey responses prior to and after the training indicated that the training program was effective in inducing a greater frequency of self-directed use of technology for language learning and in promoting a greater willingness and stronger knowledge and skill base in support of such learning behaviors.