Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Structure of receptive fields in a computational model of area 3b of primary sensory cortex

In a previous work, we introduced a computational model of area 3b which is built upon the neural field theory and receives input from a simplified model of the index distal finger pad populated by a random set of touch receptors (Merkell cells). This model has been shown to be able to self-organize following the random stimulation of the finger pad model and to cope, to some extent, with cortical or skin lesions. The main hypothesis of the model is that learning of skin representations occurs at the thalamo-cortical level while cortico-cortical connections serve a stereotyped competition mechanism that shapes the receptive fields. To further assess this hypothesis and the validity of the model, we reproduced in this article the exact experimental protocol of DiCarlo et al. that has been used to examine the structure of receptive fields in area 3b of the primary somatosensory cortex. Using the same analysis toolset, the model yields consistent results, having most of the receptive fields to contain a single region of excitation and one to several regions of inhibition. We further proceeded our study using a dynamic competition that deeply influences the formation of the receptive fields. We hypothesized this dynamic competition to correspond to some form of somatosensory attention that may help to precisely shape the receptive fields. To test this hypothesis, we designed a protocol where an arbitrary region of interest is delineated on the index distal finger pad and we either (1) instructed explicitly the model to attend to this region (simulating an attentional signal) (2) preferentially trained the model on this region or (3) combined the two aforementioned protocols simultaneously. Results tend to confirm that dynamic competition leads to shrunken receptive fields and its joint interaction with intensive training promotes a massive receptive fields migration and shrinkage.
Classification of RR-Interval and Blood Pressure Signals Using Support Vector Machine for different Postures

In this paper, the classification of RR-interval and blood pressure series for two different physical activities postures has been performed using support vector machine (SVM). Without understanding the changes in these features from lying to standing posture in the same subject it is not possible to decipher the hidden dynamics of cardiovascular control. Thus classification of the subjects based on their RR-interval and blood pressure series, prior to spectral analysis, is essential. Therefore support vector machine, a classifier motivated from statistical learning theory, is used here for classifying the subjects based on lying and standing postures. The efficiency of SVM lies in the choice of the kernel for a given problem. Here in this paper a comparative study has been performed between Linear, Polynomial and Radial Basis kernel functions, and based on highest classification accuracy linear kernel function is proposed for SVM classifier for deciphering the postural related changes in RR-interval and blood pressure signals.
Large Intestinal Epithelial Cells Response to Toll-Like Receptor 5 Signaling in Phosphate Oxidase 1 in Oxidative Burst Role of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide

The NADPH oxidase 1 (Nox1) is a gp91 phox homologue preferentially expressed in the colon. We have established primary cultures of guinea pig large intestinal epithelial cells giving 90% purity of surface mucous cells. These cells spontaneously released superoxide anion (O 2 (cid:1) ) of 160 nmol/mg protein/h and expressed the Nox1 , p22 phox , p67 phox , and Rac1 mRNAs, but not the gp91 phox , Nox4 , p47 phox , p40 phox , and Rac2 mRNAs. They also expressed novel homologues of p47 phox and p67 phox (p41 nox and p51 nox , respectively). Human colon cancer cell lines (T84 and Caco2 cells) expressed the Nox1 , p22 phox , p51 nox , and Rac1 mRNAs, but not the other NADPH component mRNAs, and secreted only small amounts of O 2 (cid:1) ( < 2 nmol/mg protein/h). Cotransfection of p41 nox and p51 nox cDNAs in T84 cells enhanced PMA-stimulated O 2 (cid:1) release 5-fold. Treatment of the transfected T84 cells with recombinant ﬂagellin (rFliC) from Salmonella enteritidis further augmented the O 2 (cid:1) release in association with the induction of Nox1 protein. The enhanced O 2 (cid:1) production by cotransfection of p41 nox and p51 nox vectors further augmented the rFliC-stimulated IL-8 release from T84 cells. T84 cells expressed the Toll-like receptor 5, and rFliC rapidly phosphorylated TGF- (cid:2) -activated kinase 1 and TGF- (cid:2) -activated kinase 1-binding protein 1. A potent inhibitor for NF- (cid:3) B (pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate) signiﬁcantly blocked the rFliC-primed increase in O 2 (cid:1) production and induction of Nox1 protein. These results suggest that p41 nox and p51 nox are involved in the Nox1 activation in surface mucous cells of the colon, and besides that, epithelial cells discern pathogenicities among bacteria to appropriately operate Nox1 for the host defense. The Journal of Immunology, 2004, 172: 3051–3058. cytochemically
The technology market, FDI and innovation in China: An empirical analysis based on provincial panel data

This work develops a knowledge production function that links Griliches-Jaffe knowledge production function with FDI and technology market vitality. Using the provincial data from 2003 to 2012 in China, we construct a dynamic panel model of innovation outputs. This paper assesses whether, how, and to what extent FDI and technology market turnover are sensitive to domestic patent applications. We find that the effect of lagged domestic patent applications on the current domestic patent applications is significantly positive, highlighting the importance of knowledge stocks. This finding is robust under both one-step DIF GMM and two-step DIF GMM estimations. The FDI and technology market turnover coefficients are significantly positive for the advanced innovation such as invention patent applications and insignificant for the minor innovation such as utility model and design patent applications at a 5% level.
Attribute relevance in multiclass data sets using the naive Bayes rule

Feature selection using the naive Bayes rule is presented for the case of multiclass data sets. In this paper, the EM algorithm is applied to each class projected over the features in order to obtain an estimation of the class probability density function. A matrix of weights per class and feature is then obtained, where it collects the level of relevance of each feature for the different classes. We show different ways to extract this information and compare the behavior of the ranking of relevance obtained applying the naive Bayes and K-NN classifiers.
MakerWear: A Tangible Approach to Interactive Wearable Creation for Children

Wearable construction toolkits have shown promise in broadening participation in computing and empowering users to create personally meaningful computational designs. However, these kits present a high barrier of entry for some users, particularly young children (K-6). In this paper, we introduce MakerWear, a new wearable construction kit for children that uses a tangible, modular approach to wearable creation. We describe our participatory design process, the iterative development of MakerWear, and results from single- and multi-session workshops with 32 children (ages 5-12; M=8.3 years). Our findings reveal how children engage in wearable design, what they make (and want to make), and what challenges they face. As a secondary analysis, we also explore age-related differences.
Change detection in multispectral imagery from multisensor

In this paper a method based on canonical correlation analysis, called MNF/MAD is proposed for change detection in multispectral imagery from multisensor. This method is able to concentrate change information in all spectral bands, and it has the merit of insensitive to linear transformations such as gain settings of measuring devices and linear radiometric correction schemes. A case study using Landsat7 ETM+ and SPOT5 HRG images is conducted to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of this method.
Optimizing of hydraulic fracturing procedure using numerical simulation

This paper presents a modeling approach for three-dimensional simulation of hydraulic fracturing of jointed rock. Dynardo developed a 3D-hydraulic fracturing simulator and coupled the simulator with leading edge calibration and optimization algorithms to offers the software base to optimize gas production with computer simulation. With the integrated approach, an effective 3D numerical reservoir simulator is available. The input parameters of the numerical model from the best available well log and reservoir data must be calibrated from the direct diagnostics measurements to assign the correct level of importance to various mechanisms of the hydraulic fracturing. Only with this degree of diagnostic characterization of the hydraulic fracture it is possible to truly understand the controls on the evolution of the fracture network geometry of hydraulic fractures. With this approach, a predictive model for the design of hydraulic fracture can be developed for a reservoir. By use of the predictive, calibrated model, the hydraulic fracturing design can be optimized to provide the required conductivity the hydraulic fracture design to maximize the gas production. For three dimensional modeling, analysis and post processing FEM simulator ANSYS is used. The second key component is the material library of jointed rock multiPlas, which simulates the fracturing process. The third key component is the optimization tool optiSLang, which is used for calibration of the reservoir simulator and finally used for optimization of gas production. The simulator was set up and verified in Barnett Shale production area. The reservoir model was characterized with 7 rock layers and up to 4 sets of joints per rock layer. With the help of optiSLang a sensitivity study of the 200 physical and fracturing design parameters was performed to identify and calibrate the important physical parameters. The calibrated mode is then used to predict and optimize the gas production rates.
Analyses of balance and flexibility of obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery

OBJECTIVE: To assess the postural control and flexibility of obese subjects before and both six and 12 months after bariatric surgery. To verify whether postural control is related to flexibility following weight reductions resulting from bariatric surgery. METHODS: The sample consisted of 16 subjects who had undergone bariatric surgery. All assessments were performed before and six and 12 months after bariatric surgery. Postural balance was assessed using an Accusuway® portable force platform, and flexibility was assessed using a standard chair sit and reach test (Wells' chair). RESULTS: With the force platform, no differences were observed in the displacement area or velocity from the center of pressure in the mediolateral and anteroposterior directions. The displacement speed from the center of pressure was decreased at the six month after the surgery; however, unchanged from baseline at 12 months post-surgery. Flexibility increased over time according to the three measurements tested. CONCLUSIONS: Static postural balance did not change. The velocity of postural adjustment responses were increased at six months after surgery. Therefore, weight loss promotes increased flexibility. Yet, improvements in flexibility are not related to improvements in balance.
Distance‐Based Tests for Homogeneity of Multivariate Dispersions

Summary The traditional likelihood‐based test for differences in multivariate dispersions is known to be sensitive to nonnormality. It is also impossible to use when the number of variables exceeds the number of observations. Many biological and ecological data sets have many variables, are highly skewed, and are zero‐inflated. The traditional test and even some more robust alternatives are also unreasonable in many contexts where measures of dispersion based on a non‐Euclidean dissimilarity would be more appropriate. Distance‐based tests of homogeneity of multivariate dispersions, which can be based on any dissimilarity measure of choice, are proposed here. They rely on the rotational invariance of either the multivariate centroid or the spatial median to obtain measures of spread using principal coordinate axes. The tests are straightforward multivariate extensions of Levene's test, with P‐values obtained either using the traditional F‐distribution or using permutation of either least‐squares or LAD residuals. Examples illustrate the utility of the approach, including the analysis of stabilizing selection in sparrows, biodiversity of New Zealand fish assemblages, and the response of Indonesian reef corals to an El Niño. Monte Carlo simulations from the real data sets show that the distance‐based tests are robust and powerful for relevant alternative hypotheses of real differences in spread.
Personal Assistants for Human Organizations

Intelligent software personal assistants are an acti ve research area with the potential to revolutionize the way that human organizations operate, b ut there has been little research quantifying how they will impact organizational performance or how organizations will or should adapt in response. In this chapter we develop a c omputational model of the organization to evaluate the impact different proposed ass ist nt abilities have on the behavior and performance of the organization. By varying t he organizational structures under consideration, we can identify which abilities are mo st beneficial, as well as explore how organizations may adapt to best leverage the new technology. The results indicate that the most beneficial abilities for hierar chical organizations are those that improve load balancing through task allocation and failure rec overy, while for horizontal organizations the most beneficial abilities are those t hat improve communication. The results also suggest that software personal assistant t echnology will facilitate more horizontal organizations.
Mechanics and Energetics of Soil Penetration by Earthworms and Plant Roots: Higher Rates Cost More

We quantified mechanical differences between earthworms and roots using penetration rates. Mechanical modeling was justified by direct imaging of both plant roots and earthworms. We validated model predictions with rate‐controlled miniature cone penetrometer experiments. Earthworm burrows are dominantly formed through mechanical processes, not ingestion. We outline mechanical and energetic limitations for a range of water contents.
Using a composite flow law to model deformation in the NEEM deep
ice core, Greenland: Part 1 the role of grain size and grain size
distribution on the deformation of Holocene and glacial ice

Abstract. The effect of grain size on strain rate of ice in the upper 2207 m in the North Greenland Eemian Ice Drilling (NEEM) deep ice core was investigated using a rheological model based on the composite flow law of Goldsby and Kohlstedt (1997, 2001). The grain size was described by both a mean grain size and a grain size distribution, which allowed the strain rate to be calculated using two different model end members: (i) the micro-scale constant stress model where each grain deforms by the same stress and (ii) the micro-scale constant strain rate model where each grain deforms by the same strain rate. The model results show that basal slip accommodated by grain boundary sliding produces almost all of the deformation in the upper 2207 m of the NEEM ice core, while dislocation creep (basal slip accommodated by non-basal slip) hardly contributes to deformation. The difference in calculated strain rate between the two model end members is relatively small. The calculated strain rate in the fine grained glacial ice (1419–2207 m) varies strongly with depth and is about 4–5 times higher than in the coarser grained Holocene ice (0–1419 m). Two peaks in strain rate are predicted at about 1980 and 2100 m of depth. The results from the rheological model and microstructures in the glacial ice indicate that fine grained layers in the glacial ice will act as internal preferential sliding zones in the Greenland ice sheet.
Cognitive femtocell networks: an opportunistic spectrum access for future indoor wireless coverage

Femtocells have emerged as a promising solution to provide wireless broadband access coverage in cellular dead zones and indoor environments. Compared with other techniques for indoor coverage, femtocells achieve better user experience with less capital expenditure and maintenance cost. However, co-channel deployments of closed subscriber group femtocells cause coverage holes in macrocells due to co-channel interference. To address this problem, cognitive radio technology has been integrated with femtocells. CR-enabled femtocells can actively sense their environment and exploit the network side information obtained from sensing to adaptively mitigate interference. We investigate three CRenabled interference mitigation techniques, including opportunistic interference avoidance, interference cancellation, and interference alignment. Macrocell activities can be obtained without significant overhead in femtocells. In this article, we present a joint opportunistic interference avoidance scheme with Gale-Shapley spectrum sharing (GSOIA) based on the interweave paradigm to mitigate both tier interferences in macro/femto heterogeneous networks. In this scheme, cognitive femtocells opportunistically communicate over available spectrum with minimal interference to macrocells; different femtocells are assigned orthogonal spectrum resources with a one-to-one matching policy to avoid intratier interference. Our simulations show considerable performance improvement of the GSOIA scheme and validate the potential benefits of CRenabled femtocells for in-home coverage.
Nutrient intakes and iron and vitamin D status differ depending on main milk consumed by UK children aged 12–18 months – secondary analysis from the Diet and Nutrition Survey of Infants and Young Children

Abstract Nutrition in the second year is important as this is a period of rapid growth and development. Milk is a major food for young children and this analysis evaluated the impact of the type of milk consumed on nutrient intakes and nutritional status. Data from the Diet and Nutrition Survey of Infants and Young Children were used to investigate the intakes of key nutrients, and Fe and vitamin D status, of children aged 12–18 months, not breastfed, and consuming >400 g/d fortified milk (n 139) or >400 g/d of whole cows’ milk (n 404). Blood samples from eligible children for measurement of Hb (n 113), serum ferritin and plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations (n 105) were available for approximately 20 % of children. Unpaired Mann–Whitney tests were used to compare nutrient intakes and status between consumers of fortified and cows’ milk. Mean daily total dietary intakes of Fe, Zn, vitamin A and vitamin D were significantly higher in the fortified milk group. Mean daily total dietary intakes of energy, protein, Ca, iodine, Na and saturated fat were significantly higher in the cows’ milk group. Hb was not different between groups. The fortified milk group had significantly higher serum ferritin (P = 0·049) and plasma 25(OH)D (P = 0·014). This analysis demonstrates significantly different nutrient intakes and status between infants consuming >400 g/d fortified milk v. those consuming >400 g/d whole cows’ milk. These results indicate that fortified milks can play a significant role in improving the quality of young children's diets in their second year of life.
The Markov chain Monte Carlo method: an approach to approximate counting and integration

In the area of statistical physics, Monte Carlo algorithms based on Markov chain simulation have been in use for many years. The validity of these algorithms depends crucially on the rate of convergence to equilibrium of the Markov chain being simulated. Unfortunately, the classical theory of stochastic processes hardly touches on the sort of non-asymptotic analysis required in this application. As a consequence, it had previously not been possible to make useful, mathematically rigorous statements about the quality of the estimates obtained. Within the last ten years, analytical tools have been devised with the aim of correcting this deficiency. As well as permitting the analysis of Monte Carlo algorithms for classical problems in statistical physics, the introduction of these tools has spurred the development of new approximation algorithms for a wider class of problems in combinatorial enumeration and optimization. The “Markov chain Monte Carlo” method has been applied to a variety of such problems, and often provides the only known efficient (i.e., polynomial time) solution technique.
Service oriented architecture for heterogeneous and dynamic sensor networks

The purpose of this demo is to foster a multi-level service oriented architecture for sensor networks that fully supports network dynamicity, auto-configuration, service discovery, and interoperability with legacy infrastructures. We consider a surveillance scenario in which the detection of an intruder, conducted within the range of a network of sensors, automatically triggers tracking activities.
Twin boundary profiles with linear-quadratic coupling between order parameters

A new type of twin boundary was found when two order parameters interact by linear-quadratic coupling QP2. In this solution, we find that a domain wall consists of two layers in which in one layer both order parameters Q and P are active while in the second layer only Q is active. The adjacent domains are equally asymmetric (Q, P) and (Q, 0) so that one phase could be polar and/or magnetic and contain a ferroelastic strain while the second layer is ferroelastic only without polar or magnetic properties. The two layers represent a stepwise transition between the two domains. We analyze the full phase diagram depending on the coupling constant and anisotropy of the gradient term, and show that in a certain regime the order parameter Q becomes activated only in the interfacial region. A common solution contains kinks and breathers whereby the width of the interface can be very wide in agreement with the first order character of the transition.
Seroepidemiology of measles in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: implications for control through vaccination

We undertook a representative survey of measles antibodies in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 1994, to characterize immunity and transmission. Specific-antibody levels (IU/l) were determined by ELISA for 4654 sera from individuals aged 0–49 years (1805 <15 years) collected by stratified household-cluster sampling. The proportion seronegative (<100 IU/l) was 20% (95% CI: 16–25) in children 9–59 months old, declining to 9% (7–12) in 5–9 year olds, 5% (4–7) in 10–14 year olds, and <1% in adults. The proportion of children (<15 years old) with low-level antibody (100–255 IU/l) was 8% (7–10). Vaccination and an absence of a history of measles illness were strongly associated with low-level antibody. History of measles vaccination in 9 months to 14-year-old children was ~80%. We estimate a primary vaccine failure rate of 21% (12–34) and continued high measles incidence of 22 per 100 susceptibles (19–24) per annum. Our data support the introduction of campaign vaccination in the city in 1998, although higher routine vaccine coverage is required to sustain the impact. The implications of a high prevalence of low-level antibody are discussed.