Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Multi-Agent Approach to Solving NP-Complete Problems

This master's project concerns the use of multi-agent design principles in making efficient solvers for NP-complete problems. The design of computer programs as multi-agent systems presents a new and very promising software engineering paradigm, where systems are described as individual problem-solving agents pursuing high-level goals. Recently, researchers have started to apply the multi-agent paradigm to the construction of efficient solvers for NP-complete problems. This has resulted in very effective tools for routing problems, graph partitioning and SAT-solving. The objective of the present project is to make further studies into the application of multi-agent principles to solving NP-complete problems. More specifically, the project has the following two goals. First, it should result in a general discussion of the use of multi-agent approaches to solving NP-complete problems. This should include a discussion of strengths and weaknesses compared to other approaches of solving the same problems. Second, it should result in a concrete software tool for solving n2 £ n2 Sudoku puzzles, which is known to be an NP-complete problem. The tool should be benchmarked against other solvers for Sudoku.
Emissive Enhancement of the Singlet Oxygen Chemiluminescence Probe after Binding to Bovine Serum Albumin

A chemiluminescence probe for singlet oxygen 1O2 (SOCL) was investigated in phosphate buffer saline (PBS), either in the absence of proteins or containing bovine serum albumin (BSA). In the protein-free PBS, the reactivity of SOCL for methylene blue (MB)-photosensitized 1O2 was found to be moderate or low. The reaction yield increased with temperature and/or concentration of dissolved molecular oxygen. Unexpectedly, the presence of BSA boosted both the emissive nature and the thermal stability of the phenoxy-dioxetane intermediate formed in the chemiexcitation pathway. Isothermal titration calorimetry showed that SOCL has a moderate binding affinity for BSA and that entropy forces drive the formation of the SOCL-BSA complex. A model with two identical and independent binding sites was used to fit the binding isotherm data. Co-operative binding was observed when MB was present. Local viscosity factors and/or conformational restrictions of the BSA-bound SOCL phenoxy-dioxetane were proposed to contribute to the formation of the highly emissive benzoate ester during the chemically initiated electron exchange luminescence (CIEEL) process. These results led us to conclude that hydrophobic interactions of the SOCL with proteins can modify the emissive nature of its phenoxy-dioxetane, which should be taken into account when using SOCL or its cell-penetrating peptide derivative in living cells.
Comparison of Remineralising Potential of Nano Silver Fluoride, Silver Diamine Fluoride and Sodium Fluoride Varnish on Artificial Caries: An In Vitro Study.

PURPOSE To evaluate the remineralisation effect of an experimental nano silver fluoride (NSF) formulation using an in vitro remineralisation model, compared with silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and sodium fluoride varnish (NaF) in current clinical use. MATERIALS AND METHODS 45 sound human third molars were sectioned in buccolingual and mesiodistal direction and 180 enamel specimens were divided into four groups (NSF; SDF; NaF; Control). Early caries-like lesions were artificially created. Remineralisation agents were applied with a microbrush for 2 min in NSF and SDF group; NaF varnish were applied in a thin layer and then all specimens were stored in a moist environment at 37°C for 24 h. Each group was subjected to a pH cycling model for 7 days. The Vickers microhardness values (VHN) of specimens were compared before treatment, after demineralisation and after remineralisation. In addition, scanning electron microscope (SEM) images were investigated to compare morphological changes on the surfaces. Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for statistical analysis to compare the groups at p < 0.05. RESULTS All remineralisation agents were found to be statistically significant for the rehardening of the demineralised enamel specimens (p < 0.001). There was a statistically significant difference between the all groups after remineralisation (p < 0.001). The VHN values for postdemineralisation were determined as, respectively, NaF (229.96) > SDF (222.96) > NSF (191.36) > Control (175.80). SEM images have also supported the microhardness values. CONCLUSIONS NSF was not found to be effective as sodium fluoride varnish and SDF on artificial enamel caries lesions. Additional investigation is needed to recommend it as an alternative agent to routine fluoride treatments.
Metaproteomics characterization of the alphaproteobacteria microbiome in different developmental and feeding stages of the poultry red mite Dermanyssus gallinae (De Geer, 1778)

ABSTRACT The poultry red mite (PRM), Dermanyssus gallinae (De Geer, 1778), is a worldwide distributed ectoparasite and considered a major pest affecting the laying hen industry in Europe. Based on available information in other ectoparasites, the mite microbiome might participate in several biological processes and the acquisition, maintenance and transmission of pathogens. However, little is known about the role of PRM as a mechanical carrier or a biological vector in the transmission of pathogenic bacteria. Herein, we used a metaproteomics approach to characterize the alphaproteobacteria in the microbiota of PRM, and variations in its profile with ectoparasite development (nymphs vs. adults) and feeding (unfed vs. fed). The results showed that the bacterial community associated with D. gallinae was mainly composed of environmental and commensal bacteria. Putative symbiotic bacteria of the genera Wolbachia, C. Tokpelaia and Sphingomonas were identified, together with potential pathogenic bacteria of the genera Inquilinus, Neorickettsia and Roseomonas. Significant differences in the composition of alphaproteobacterial microbiota were associated with mite development and feeding, suggesting that bacteria have functional implications in metabolic pathways associated with blood feeding. These results support the use of metaproteomics for the characterization of alphaproteobacteria associated with the D. gallinae microbiota that could provide relevant information for the understanding of mite-host interactions and the development of potential control interventions. Research highlights Metaproteomics is a valid approach for microbiome characterization in ectoparasites. Alphaproteobacteria putative bacterial symbionts were identified in D. gallinae. Mite development and feeding were related to variations in bacterial community. Potentially pathogenic bacteria were identified in mite microbiota.
On robust non-fragile static state-feedback controller synthesis

This paper addresses the design of robust non-fragile state feedback controllers, with controller uncertain parameters described as polytope-type convex-bounded uncertainties. The linearizing change of variables Z=KW, that is the basis for a large class of LMI-based robust control design algorithms, is slightly modified. The modified change of variables proposed here leads to LMI-based robust non-fragile control design algorithms that are directly derived from any former algorithm formulated in terms of the traditional change of variables. In this way, the "fragility" issue is solved inside the mainstream of the LMI-based robust control synthesis algorithms that have been developed up to now, in a unified basis.
A comparison of the anatomical and gastrointestinal functional development between gilt and sow progeny around birth and weaning.

Gilt progeny (GP) often have restricted growth performance and health status in comparison to sow progeny (SP) from birth, with the underlying mechanisms responsible for this yet to be fully understood. The current study aimed to compare differences in growth and development between GP and SP in the first 24 h after birth and in the peri-weaning period. Two cohorts of pigs including 36 GP and 37 SP were euthanized at 1 of 4 timepoints: a birth cohort (at birth before suckling, 0 h; and 24 h after birth, 24 h; n = 33) and a weaning cohort (at approximately 29 d of age; 'pre-weaning', PrW; and 24 h after weaning; 'post-weaning', PoW; n = 40). Pigs were individually weighed at 0 h, 24 h, PrW and PoW up until the point of euthanasia, at which time the weights of selected tissues and organs were recorded and analyzed relative to BW. The length of the small intestine (SI), femur and body were also measured, and a serum sample was collected and analyzed for immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration. Samples of jejunal and ileal mucosa were collected and analyzed for total protein and specific activity of lactase. Euthanized GP were lighter (P < 0.01) than SP at all timepoints. At all timepoints the ratios of quadriceps weight to femur length, BW to body length, spleen to BW (all P < 0.05) and SI weight to length (P < 0.10) were lower in GP than SP. There was no difference (P ≥ 0.05) in stomach or heart to BW ratios between GP and SP in either cohort. The brain to liver weight ratio was greater (P = 0.044) in GP than SP in the birth cohort, and the brain to BW ratio was greater (P < 0.01) in GP in both the birth and weaning cohorts. The liver to BW ratio was similar (P = 0.35) at birth but greater (P = 0.014) in GP around weaning. Total mucosal protein content in the jejunum and ileum was lower (P = 0.007) in GP at 24 h compared to SP, and specific activity of lactase was greater (P = 0.022) in GP in the birth cohort, whereas there were no differences in the weaning cohort (P ≥ 0.10). Gilt progeny had lower (P < 0.001) serum IgG concentration compared to SP at 24 h, but there was no difference (P ≥ 0.10) in the weaning cohort. Collectively, these findings suggest that the early development of GP may be delayed compared to SP, and that a number of the anatomical differences between GP and SP that exist after birth are also present at weaning.
Prognostic factors, failure patterns and survival analysis in patients with resectable oral squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue

Purpose There is sparse literature on treatment outcomes research on resectable oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC). The aim of this study was to measure the treatment outcomes, explore the failure patterns, and identify the potential clinicopathological prognostic factors affecting treatment outcomes for resectable OTSCC. Materials and Methods It is a retrospective analysis of 202 patients with resectable OTSCC who underwent upfront primary surgical resection followed by adjuvant radiotherapy with or without concurrent chemotherapy if indicated. Results The median follow-up was 35.2 months (range, 1.2 to 99.9 months). The median duration of locoregional control (LRC) was 84.9 months (95% confidence interval, 67.3–102.4). The 3- and 5-year LRC rate was 68.5% and 58.3%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that increasing pT stage, increasing pN stage, and the presence of extracapsular extension (ECE) were significantly associated with poorer LRC. The median duration of overall survival (OS) was not reached at the time of analysis. The 3- and 5-year OS rate was 70.5% and 66.6%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that increasing pT stage and the presence of ECE were significantly associated with a poorer OS. Conclusion Locoregional failure remains the main cause of treatment failure in resectable OTSCC. There is scope to further improve prognosis considering modest LRC and OS. Pathological T-stage, N-stage, and ECE are strong prognostic factors. Further research is required to confirm whether adjuvant therapy adds to treatment outcomes in cases with lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, and depth of invasion, and help clinicians tailoring adjuvant therapy.
Fruits, vegetables, and health: A comprehensive narrative, umbrella review of the science and recommendations for enhanced public policy to improve intake

Abstract Fruit and vegetables (F&V) have been a cornerstone of healthy dietary recommendations; the 2015–2020 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that F&V constitute one-half of the plate at each meal. F&V include a diverse collection of plant foods that vary in their energy, nutrient, and dietary bioactive contents. F&V have potential health-promoting effects beyond providing basic nutrition needs in humans, including their role in reducing inflammation and their potential preventive effects on various chronic disease states leading to decreases in years lost due to premature mortality and years lived with disability/morbidity. Current global intakes of F&V are well below recommendations. Given the importance of F&V for health, public policies that promote dietary interventions to help increase F&V intake are warranted. This externally commissioned expert comprehensive narrative, umbrella review summarizes up-to-date clinical and observational evidence on current intakes of F&V, discusses the available evidence on the potential health benefits of F&V, and offers implementation strategies to help ensure that public health messaging is reflective of current science. This review demonstrates that F&V provide benefits beyond helping to achieve basic nutrient requirements in humans. The scientific evidence for providing public health recommendations to increase F&V consumption for prevention of disease is strong. Current evidence suggests that F&V have the strongest effects in relation to prevention of CVDs, noting a nonlinear threshold effect of 800 g per day (i.e., about 5 servings a day). A growing body of clinical evidence (mostly small RCTs) demonstrates effects of specific F&V on certain chronic disease states; however, more research on the role of individual F&V for specific disease prevention strategies is still needed in many areas. Data from the systematic reviews and mostly observational studies cited in this report also support intake of certain types of F&V, particularly cruciferous vegetables, dark-green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, and dark-colored berries, which have superior effects on biomarkers, surrogate endpoints, and outcomes of chronic disease.
A Web-based Tagging Tool for Organizing Personal Documents on PCs

Most desktop computer operating systems provide hierarchical folder mechanisms for managing electronic content, therefore hierarchies still dominate digital information management on PCs. Under certain circumstances, the properties of a folder system make it hard to locate and find specific files stored deep within a hierarchy, therefore researchers are currently studying new mechanisms for file storage, organization, and retrieval. Recently, non-exclusive and flat-network tagging mechanisms have gained popularity for managing online information and files. In this paper we discuss memory theories from cognitive psychology and their potential use in the form of tagging mechanisms for storing and retrieving personal information. Next, we propose a webbased file-tagging tool that allows users to manage files stored on their PCs from remote computers or mobile devices and describe an experiment designed to compare it with a traditional hierarchical folder system.
Dual rate mobile data system

A mobile data system that uses two significantly different data rates on the air interface is described. In a cellular system it is the conditions prevailing for a mobile terminal at the cell border that is setting the limit for a reasonable data rate. However, there are conditions in the cell, e.g. a stationary terminal close to the base station, where it is possible to use a higher data rate. A system is described that is designed for 12.5 kHz LMR channels. The system uses a binary digital FM of GMSK-type as the default transmission mode, but it switches to multilevel CPM when radio conditions are found to be good by the terminal. Considerations on the choice of the number of levels, and on the performance and complexity of the multilevel signalling, are given. Criteria for deciding when conditions are good enough for a rate increase are also suggested. <<ETX>>
The Nitrogen Isotope Ratio Is a Biomarker of Yup'ik Traditional Food Intake and Reflects Dietary Seasonality in Segmental Hair Analyses.

BACKGROUND The nitrogen isotope ratio (NIR) is a promising index of traditional food intake for an Alaska Native (Yup'ik) population, which can be measured in blood and hair. However, the NIR has not been calibrated to high-quality measures of Yup'ik traditional food intake. OBJECTIVES Our primary objective was to examine associations between intakes of Yup'ik traditional food groups, including fish, marine mammals, birds, land mammals, berries, greens, and total traditional foods, and the NIR. In an exploratory analysis, we also examined whether NIR analyzed sequentially along hair could reflect dietary seasonality. METHODS We recruited 68 participants from 2 Yup'ik communities in the Yukon Kuskokwim region of Southwest Alaska (49% female, aged 14-79 y). Participants completed 4 unscheduled 24-h food recalls over the period peak of RBC and hair synthesis preceding a specimen collection visit. The NIR was measured in RBCs ( n = 68), a proximal hair section (n = 58), and sequential segments of hair from individuals in the upper 2 quartiles of traditional food intake having hair >6 cm in length, plus 2 low subsistence participants for reference (n = 18). Diet-biomarker associations were assessed using Pearson's correlation and linear regression. RESULTS Intakes of fish, marine mammals, berries, and greens were significantly associated with the NIR. The strongest dietary association was with total traditional food intake (R2 = 0.62), which indicated that each 1‰ increase in the RBC NIR corresponded to 8% of energy from traditional foods. Hair NIR appeared to fluctuate seasonally in some individuals, peaking in the summertime. CONCLUSIONS Findings support the use of the RBC and hair NIR to assess total traditional food intake in a Yup'ik population. Analyses of sequential hair NIR provided evidence of seasonality in traditional food intake, although seasonal variations were modest relative to interindividual variation.
Temporal Changes in Coronary Hyperemic and Resting Hemodynamic Indices in Nonculprit Vessels of Patients With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction.

Importance Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of nonculprit vessels among patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is associated with improved clinical outcome compared with culprit vessel-only PCI. Fractional flow reserve (FFR) and coronary flow reserve are hyperemic indices used to guide revascularization. Recently, instantaneous wave-free ratio was introduced as a nonhyperemic alternative to FFR. Whether these indices can be used in the acute setting of STEMI continues to be investigated. Objective To assess the value of hemodynamic indices in nonculprit vessels of patients with STEMI from the index event to 1-month follow-up. Design, Setting, and Participants This substudy of the Reducing Micro Vascular Dysfunction in Revascularized STEMI Patients by Off-target Properties of Ticagrelor (REDUCE-MVI) randomized clinical trial enrolled 98 patients with STEMI who had an angiographic intermediate stenosis in at least 1 nonculprit vessel. Patient enrollment was between May 1, 2015, and September 19, 2017. After successful primary PCI, nonculprit intracoronary hemodynamic measurements were performed and repeated at 1-month follow-up. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was performed from 2 to 7 days and 1 month after primary PCI. Main Outcomes and Measures The value of nonculprit instantaneous wave-free ratio, FFR, coronary flow reserve, hyperemic index of microcirculatory resistance, and resting microcirculatory resistance from the index event to 1-month follow-up. Results Of 73 patients with STEMI included in the final analysis, 59 (80.8%) were male, with a mean (SD) age of 60.8 (9.9) years. Instantaneous wave-free ratio (SD) did not change significantly (0.93 [0.07] vs 0.94 [0.06]; P = .12) and there was no change in resting distal pressure/aortic pressure (mean [SD], 0.94 [0.06] vs 0.95 [0.06]; P = .25) from the acute moment to 1-month follow-up. The FFR decreased (mean [SD], 0.88 [0.07] vs 0.86 [0.09]; P = .001) whereas coronary flow reserve increased (mean [SD], 2.9 [1.4] vs 4.1 [2.2]; P < .001). Hyperemic index of microcirculatory resistance decreased and resting microcirculatory resistance increased from the acute moment to follow-up. The decrease in distal pressure from rest to hyperemia was smaller at the acute moment vs follow-up (mean [SD], 10.6 [11.2] mm Hg vs 14.1 [14.2] mm Hg; P = .05). This blunted acute hyperemic response correlated with final infarct size (ρ, -0.29; P = .02). The resistive reserve ratio was lower at the acute moment vs follow-up (mean [SD], 3.4 [1.7] vs 5.0 [2.7]; P < .001). Conclusions and Relevance In the acute setting of STEMI, nonculprit coronary flow reserve was reduced and FFR was augmented, whereas instantaneous wave-free ratio was not altered. These results may be explained by an increased hyperemic microvascular resistance and a blunted adenosine responsiveness at the acute moment that was associated with infarct size.
Photoreceptor Degeneration is Correlated With the Deterioration of Macular Retinal Sensitivity in High Myopia.

Purpose To investigate structural changes in the retinal outer layers and choroid using adaptive optics (AO) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) in eyes with myopia, and to correlate the changes with decreased macular light sensitivity (MLS). Methods This prospective study included 27 subjects with emmetropia and low myopia (EM/LM), 25 with moderate myopia (MM), and 25 with high myopia (HM). Microperimetry was used to quantify MLS in each subject, while AO and OCT images of fundus were analyzed to quantify cone density and regularity and thickness of outer retinal sublayers and choroid. Differences of MLS, cone distribution, and chorioretinal thicknesses were compared among the three groups, and the associations among photoreceptor morphological alterations, MLS, and other parameters were analyzed. Results In HM, the MLS, cone density and regularity, and thicknesses of the myoid and ellipsoid zone (MEZ), Henle fiber layer and outer nuclear layer, interdigitation zone and RPE/Bruch complex, and choroid were lower than in EM/LM. Decreased MLS was correlated with lower cone density and regularity, and thinner MEZ and choroid in the inner region, and with lower cone density, thinner MEZ and choroid, and longer axial length in the outer region. Multivariate regression showed that better MLS was correlated with thicker MEZ in the inner region and with higher cone density in the outer region. Conclusions Altered cone distribution and outer retinal thickness, especially cone density and MEZ thickness, were significantly correlated with decline of MLS in HM, which may help to evaluate and monitor visual impairment in HM.