Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Mean-field Variational Inference via Wasserstein Gradient Flow

Variational inference, such as the mean-field (MF) approximation, requires certain conjugacy structures for efficient computation. These can impose unnecessary restrictions on the viable prior distribution family and further constraints on the variational approximation family. In this work, we introduce a general computational framework to implement MF variational inference for Bayesian models, with or without latent variables, using the Wasserstein gradient flow (WGF), a modern mathematical technique for realizing a gradient flow over the space of probability measures. Theoretically, we analyze the algorithmic convergence of the proposed approaches, providing an explicit expression for the contraction factor. We also strengthen existing results on MF variational posterior concentration from a polynomial to an exponential contraction, by utilizing the fixed point equation of the time-discretized WGF. Computationally, we propose a new constraint-free function approximation method using neural networks to numerically realize our algorithm. This method is shown to be more precise and efficient than traditional particle approximation methods based on Langevin dynamics.
Individual growth of the Flathead Knob‐scaled Lizard, Xenosaurus platyceps, from tropical and temperate populations

Growth rates of ectotherms are frequently affected by environmental conditions, such as temperature, precipitation, and prey availability. However, local adaptation to environmental conditions could influence geographic variation in growth rates. We studied growth rates of the Flathead Knob‐scaled Lizard, Xenosaurus platyceps, from a tropical population and a temperate population in Tamaulipas, Mexico. We used a field study and a common garden experiment to examine the extent and potential causes of variation in individual growth rates between these two populations from contrasting environments. Field‐determined growth rates in the tropical population were greater than those in the temperate population. In a laboratory common garden experiment that manipulated food availability and temperature for neonates from each population, neonates from the tropical population grew faster than those from the temperate population. Neonates kept at higher temperatures grew faster than those kept at lower temperature. In addition, growth rates of neonates from temperate and tropical populations did not differ at low temperature, but neonates from the tropical population grew faster at the higher temperature than did the neonates from the temperate population. Food treatment did not affect individual growth rates in these lizards, although there was a trend for neonates grown with higher food availability to grow faster. Our results suggest that not only does the warm environment of the tropical population contribute to the observed differences in field growth rates, but there is a genetic difference in the ability of the tropical population to take advantage of the warmer temperatures to increase growth rates
A holographic phase-retrieval method of aperture-field evaluation for bolometer-array-equipped radio telescopes

We verified a method of near-field antenna pattern measurement for a wide-field telescope with a bolometric detector array, based on a holographic phase-retrieval technique. A signal emitter scans the telescope aperture and a reference emitter, which is phase-locked to the signal, is located at a fixed position to allow a bolometric detector to receive the both. It generates a hologram on the focal plane as a function of the signal emitter location. Since the hologram is obtained in a receiving mode, we can use the telescope-equipped detector as it is. It is beneficial for the case where such detector is integrated with a feed antenna, which characterizes the telescope performance. The new method also has an advantage that we do not need the phase calibration of the reference emitter since it is constant. We experimentally demonstrated this method with a crossed-Dragone antenna whose field of view is 18◦ × 9 ◦ at 180 GHz for three representative detector positions in the focal plane. The antenna patterns were consistent with those measured by a vector near-field measurement at the level of −60 dB, which directly acquires both the phase and the amplitude of the electric field.
Economic empowerment and satisfaction of Kerala women through responsible tourism entrepreneurship

Responsible tourism has received great attention in recent years due to its positive impacts and its capability to contribute towards women’s empowerment. However, studies related to women empowerment and the outcome such as satisfaction are scant. This study aims to examine the economic empowerment of women entrepreneurs involved in responsible tourism in Kerala. The study also tests the relationship between economic empowerment and satisfaction of women entrepreneurs. A quantitative method was employed and data was collected from 385 women entrepreneurs registered with Responsible Tourism Mission, Kerala, India. The study found that responsible tourism impacts in economic empowerment of women while having a weak positive relationship between the economic empowerment and their satisfaction.
PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF MORINGA OLEIFERA LEAVES AGAINST POTASSIUM BROMATE-INDUCED RENAL TOXICITY IN RATS

KBrO 3 is a vital component used in food, beer, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic productions; it produces moderate-to-dangerous toxic insults to a variety of organs. This study aimed to investigate if Moringa oleifera leaves aqueous extract (MOE) can protect rats from KBrO 3 -induced renal toxicity. Four experimental groups of male albino rats (Sprague Dawley) were used here (n=8): control, MOE (400 mg/kg body weight), KBrO 3 (100 mg/kg body weight), and KBrO 3 in combination with MOE groups. Daily for six weeks, each group received orally its unique treatment. After the experimental period kidneys and serum were collected for biochemical, molecular, and histological investigations. The KBrO 3 treatment was associated with a significant rise in serum levels of urea, creatinine, sodium, and potassium. KBrO 3 also caused a significant increase in the renal tissue levels of malondialdehyde and nitric oxide, while reducing the activities of antioxidant enzymes in the renal tissues. Moreover, KBrO 3 led to kidney inflammation and fibrosis by increasing the tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and tumor growth factor-β1, which was followed by upregulation in the renal expression of miRNA 21 ( miR-21 ), miR-29 , and miR-192 . In comparison to the control group, histopathological evaluation of the KBrO 3 group revealed degenerative alterations and damage in the kidney tissues. Conversely, co-treatment with MOE revealed a noticeable alleviation of the harmful effects of KBrO 3 in almost all examined parameters. In conclusion, MOE could be utilized as an alternative therapy to alleviate the detrimental effects of KBrO 3 on kidneys due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic activities.
Prevalence and risk factors of low birth weight in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

Background: Low birth weight (LBW) is a public health problem and is one of the causes of neonatal death in Indonesia. The Indonesian Demographic Health Survey (IDHS) in 2012 showed that the neonatal mortality rate in East Nusa Tenggara was 26/1000 live births with the most common cause of death being LBW at 10/1000 live birth rates. The profile of the Ende District Health Office in 2014 showed that the neonatal mortality rate was 12/1000 live birth rates, of which 15% were caused by low birth weight. Purpose: To determine prevalence and risk factors of low birth weight in East Nusa Tenggara, IndonesiaMethod: The study was conducted in six public health centers in Ende Regency, NTT Province. The research design was a case-control with 156 respondents. In the case group the infants who birth weighing <2500 grams as many as 78 while the control group was 78 who gave birth to babies with a normal birth weight of 2500 grams and selected randomly from the birth register in 2015. Data were collected from the examination card of pregnant women, the MCH handbook, and by interviews with each respondent. Data were analyzed bivariate (chi-square) and multivariate using logistic regression. Results: Showed that the risk factors that significantly increased the incidence of low birth weight babies were maternal age with adjusted OR(AOR) = 6.8 (95% CI:1.87-25.0), birth spacing with AOR = 6, 5(95%CI: 1,78-24.2), working mother status with AOR=4,6(95%CI:1,44-14,9), , malaria co-morbidities with AOR=3.9(95 %CI: 1,21-12,7) and the quality of ANC is less with AOR= 3,5 (95% CI: 1,11-11,3). Conclusion: Age < 20 or 35 years, birth spacing, maternal occupation, malaria comorbidities and poor quality of antenatal care are risk factors for the occurrence of low birth weight in Ende Regency.
Review of Automated Insulin Delivery Systems for Type 1 Diabetes and Associated Time in Range Outcomes

Automated insulin delivery (AID) systems play an important role in the management of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). These systems include three components: a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), an insulin pump and an algorithm that adjusts the pump based on the CGM sensor glucose readings. They are not fully automated and still require the user to administer bolus insulin doses for food. Some AID systems have automatic correction boluses, while others only have automatic basal or background insulin adjustments. As CGM has become more accurate and the technology has evolved, AID systems have demonstrated improved glycaemic outcomes. The clinical evaluation of AID systems in randomized controlled trials and real-world studies have shown their utility in helping glycaemic management. In this review, we compare AID systems that are commercially available in the US and summarize the literature, with a special focus on time in range in T1DM. The review also discusses new AID systems on the horizon and explores considerations for personalized care.
Examining Contactless Digital Technologies (CDTs) in the Midst of the COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic brought CDTs to the forefront of business life. This study provides an important insight into a specific country's context, which has not been sufficiently investigated. This paper aims 1) to investigate how companies’ general characteristics impact the use of contactless digital technologies (CDTs) in Hungary; 2) to examine employees’ attitudes regarding the use of CDTs; and 3) to explore how firms have tried to enhance employees’ acceptance of CDTs. A computer-assisted data collection (CAPI) was carried out during the coronavirus (COVID-19) period. The online questionnaire was completed by employees of Hungarian companies. Descriptive statistics and relationship analyses (Cramer's V and Kendall's Tau) were used to analyse the collected data ( ). Results indicate that 1) the general characteristics of companies, such as their profile and size, have a significant impact on the use of CDTs; 2) the typical attitude of employees towards CDTs is rather positive; and 3) the acceptance of the use of CDTs can be supported by practical rather than theoretical solutions. The result can add value and stimulate new research related to the usage of CDTs, potentially serving as a useful benchmark for other countries. Doi: 10.28991/esj-2022-SPER-015 Full Text: PDF
Coverage of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) Booster Dose (Precautionary) in the Adult Population: An Online Survey

Background The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic devastated public health worldwide, including India. COVID-19 vaccines and their boosters are life-saving developments that have helped prevent and control the spread of COVID-19. We conducted this study to assess the coverage of the booster dose in an Indian population (the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in India is referred to as the booster or precautionary dose), record the reasons for not taking the booster dose, and determine the effectiveness of the booster. The levels of adherence to COVID-19 precautionary behavior was also assessed. Methods We conducted a descriptive, cross-sectional study using convenient sampling via an online survey of 550 respondents older than 18 in the second quarter of 2022. The respondents were distributed among 18 states and union territories in India. The data were analyzed as simple proportions and percentages. Results Of the 550 respondents, 152 (27.6%) received the booster dose, indicating low coverage. A small percentage of respondents (7.2%) reported suffering from COVID-19 following the booster, of whom 91% were medical professionals. The most common reported reason for not taking the vaccine was that the respondents were not yet due for their dose (48.1%). The time between the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and the booster had no impact on infection rates. Men were less likely to adhere to COVID-19 precautionary behavior than women, despite similar vaccination rates. Conclusion The COVID-19 vaccine booster had a low acceptance in our study population, with roughly one-quarter of the population receiving the booster. The booster dose has been influential in the prevention of COVID-19. Most respondents followed behavioral safety measures despite the decline of active cases of COVID-19 in India following the Omicron wave. Our results indicate a need to strengthen public strategies to affect behavioral changes, such as improving India's Behavior Change Communication program to ensure adequate booster dose coverage.
Long-Term Effects of Ecological Factors on Nonpoint Source Pollution in the Upper Reach of the Yangtze River

Nowadays, nonpoint source pollution has been a dominant cause of water quality deterioration and eutrophication. For large basins, long-term effects of ecological factors on nonpoint source pollution are significant and have gained worldwide attention. Yangtze River is the largest river in China, and water environment protection of its upper reach is crucial to maintain the whole river health and the Three Gorges Project successful operation. The objective of this study is to reveal the effects of ecological factors on nonpoint source pollution in the upper reach of the Yangtze River during the period from 1960 through 2003 by the Improved Export Coefficient Model and the Nutrient Losses Empirical Model. The results indicated that during those decades the effects of ecological factors on dissolved pollutants were constant whereas those on sediment as well as absorbed pollutants changed slightly and decreased obviously after 2000. Comparing to anthropogenic factors, ecological ones had a dominant influence on sediment and absorbed pollutants. As for load intensities, long-term effects of ecological factors on dissolved pollutants hadn’t changed much, while those on sediment as well as absorbed pollutants was increasingly significant and then reached an ultimate in 1980. Atmospheric deposition, grassland as well as forest were important sources of dissolved nitrogen export, nevertheless, grassland and forest were the main export areas of dissolved phosphorus, sediment as well as absorbed pollutants. The study would facilitate the source identification and nonpoint source pollution control in the upper reach of the Yangtze River to improve water quality.
Evaluation of False Negative Among SARS-COV-2 Patients with Negative Real-time PCR Result Using Nested-RT PCR

Background: Fast and precise detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in clinical samples and subsequent quarantine are two critical factors in preventing virus transmission and distribution through the community. The false-negative result is a major problem in the SARS-CoV-2 detection because of the kind of sample (swab sample), sampling error, and sensitivity of PCR test, which can be reduced by a much more sensitive test such as nested PCR. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the false-negative rate among samples that were negative by a real-time PCR test using RT-nested PCR. Methods: One hundred eighty-four negative samples were included in the study, and nucleic acid was extracted using a commercial kit based on a silica filter column and then subjected to RT-nested PCR using three sets of primers targeting Orf1ab, N, and RdRp regions. Results: Among 184 negative swab samples for SARS-CoV-2, 27 (14.6%) cases were positive for the Orf1ab gene using RT-nested PCR. The samples were tested using N and RdRp primer sets. Also, seven (3.8%) cases were positive for the N gene, and four (2.1%) cases were positive for the RdRp gene. Conclusions: The results indicated that RT-nested PCR could be more sensitive than real-time PCR and reduce the false-negative rate.
Earnings quality and financial flexibility: A moderating role of corporate governance

Abstract The aim of this study is primarily to demonstrate how earnings quality is an influential determinant of financial flexibility. Secondly, how earnings quality affects financial flexibility. And finally, to provide evidence of the role of corporate governance between earnings quality and financial flexibility composing overall corporate governance index (CG-INDEX). This study considered unbalanced panel data from the year 2007 to 2020 from the database CSMAR yielding 14,088 firm-year observations. This study used liquidity as the proxy of financial flexibility, and also used a comprehensive index of corporate governance constructed by adopting the principal component analysis and STATA has been used for analyzing data. The study used System GMM regression for analysis and controls endogeneity by applying lag financial flexibility as an instrumental variable. The empirical results reveal that poor earnings quality significantly negatively influences the level of corporate financial flexibility. The results also demonstrate that corporate governance can significantly positively moderate the relationship between earnings quality and financial flexibility. This suggests that when the earnings quality is poor, firms are less likely to be financially flexible in holding liquidity. More specifically, firms with poor earnings quality will reduce their financial flexibility of firms; hence, firms need to provide high-quality earnings in order to be more financially flexible. Earnings quality is an important factor, which led the author to examine how earnings quality influences financial flexibility. Under the views of agency theory and positive accounting theory, poor earnings quality is a source of amplified shareholder’s concern of increased informational asymmetry, which may adversely affect the firm’s financial flexibility. Conversely, higher earnings quality reduces the information asymmetry which leads to higher financial flexibility. This study provides a way how to achieve financial flexibility with the assistance of corporate governance which is essential to combat financial crises and smooth business operations successfully.
Pembrolizumab and Chemotherapy in Cervical Cancer: A New Standard of Care?

Cervical cancer (CC) still has a high incidence despite screening programmes and access to human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, with a poor prognosis in the advanced setting. Most cases of cervical carcinoma are related to HPV infection. The pathogen-induced nature of the disease, the involvement of genes regulating the immune response and the high grade of immune infiltration provide the rationale to evaluate anti-programmed death-(ligand)1 (PD-[L]1) immune checkpoint inhibitors in CC. This article reviews the promising outcomes of the KEYNOTE-826 phase III trial, which evaluates the addition of pembrolizumab to chemotherapy in patients with PD-L1-positive disease and recurrent, persistent or metastatic cancer of the cervix, leading to an improvement of progression-free survival and overall survival. We also aim to address some outstanding questions and discuss the next steps in immunotherapy for CC.
Client-driven Lightweight Method to Generate Artistic Media for Feature-length Sports Videos

: This paper proposes a lightweight methodology to attract users and increase views of videos through personalized artistic media i.e., static thumbnails and animated Graphics Interchange Format (GIF) images. The proposed method analyzes lightweight thumbnail containers (LTC) using computational resources of the client device to recognize personalized events from feature-length sports videos. In addition, instead of processing the entire video, small video segments are used in order to generate artistic media. This makes our approach more computationally efficient compared to existing methods that use the entire video data. Further, the proposed method retrieves and uses thumbnail containers and video segments, which reduces the required transmission bandwidth as well as the amount of locally stored data that are used during artistic media generation. After conducting experiments on the NVIDIA Jetson TX2, the computational complexity of our method was 3 . 78 times lower than that of the state-of-the-art method. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first technique that uses LTC to generate artistic media while providing lightweight and high-performance services on resource-constrained devices.
A framework for integrating user-centred Design and agile Development in small Companies

The integration of user-centred design (UCD) and Agile development is gaining increasing momentum in industry: the two approaches show promising complementarities and their convergence can lead to a more holistic software engineering approach relative to the application of just one of them. However, the practicalities of this integration are not trivial and the topic is currently of interest to a variety of research communities. This thesis aims at understanding the integration of user-centred design and Agile development and at supporting its adoption in small companies. Based on a qualitative approach, it is positioned at the intersection of Computer Supported Cooperative Work and software engineering, and is grounded on several empirical studies performed in industry. The work is organised in three stages inspired by the action research approach. The first stage was dedicated to understanding software development practice: through literature review and two ethnographically-informed studies, it resulted in the first contribution of this thesis, that is a set of communication breakdowns that may hinder the integration of user-centred design and Agile development. The second stage was dedicated to deliberating improvements of practice: the set of communication breakdowns was elaborated into the second contribution of this thesis, that is a framework of focal points meant to help the organisation diagnose and assess communication breakdowns in its work practice. The third stage of the thesis was dedicated to implementing and evaluating improvements. The framework was further elaborated into a training on the adoption of the framework itself. Such training was instantiated in two iterations of action research performed in small development organisations, with the aim of establishing a supportive organisational environment and mitigating communication breakdowns. Once validated through these cases, the training constituted the third contribution of this thesis. Results show that the intervention has benefited companies at several levels, enriching work practice with fresh techniques, favouring team collaboration and cooperation, and resulting in a shift from a technology-centred mindset to a more user-centred one.