Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Coupling an HCN2‐expressing cell to a myocyte creates a two‐cell pacing unit

We examined whether coupling of a ventricular myocyte to a non‐myocyte cell expressing HCN2 could create a two‐cell syncytium capable of generating sustained pacing. Three non‐myocyte cell types were transfected with the mHCN2 gene and used as sources of mHCN2‐induced currents. They were human mesenchymal stem cells and HEK293 cells, both of which express connexin43 (Cx43), and HeLa cells transfected with Cx43. Cell–cell coupling between heterologous pairs increased with time in co‐culture, and hyperpolarization of the myocyte induced HCN2 currents, indicating current transfer from the mHCN2‐expressing cell to the myocyte via gap junctions. The magnitude of the HCN2 currents recorded in myocytes increased with increasing junctional conductance. Once a critical level of electrical cell–cell coupling between myocytes and mHCN2 transfected cells was exceeded spontaneous action potentials were generated at frequencies of ∼0.6 to 1.7 Hz (1.09 ± 0.05 Hz). Addition of carbenoxolone (200 μm), a gap junction channel blocker, to the media stopped spontaneous activity in heterologous cell pairs. Carbenoxolone washout restored activity. Blockade of HCN2 currents by 100 μm 9‐amino‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroacridine (THA) stopped spontaneous activity and subsequent washout restored it. Neither THA nor carbenoxolone affected electrically stimulated action potentials in isolated single myocytes. In summary, the inward current evoked in the genetically engineered (HCN2‐expressing) cell was delivered to the cardiac myocyte via gap junctions and generated action potentials such that the cell pair could function as a pacemaker unit. This finding lays the groundwork for understanding cell‐based biological pacemakers in vivo once an understanding of delivery and target cell geometry is defined.
XRCC1 Gene Polymorphisms and the Risk of Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma (DTC): A Meta-Analysis of Case-Control Studies

Background Previous studies investigating the association between X-ray repair cross-complementing group 1 (XRCC1) polymorphisms and thyroid cancer risk have yielded inconsistent results. This meta-analysis was performed to derive a more precise estimation of the relationship between three XRCC1 polymorphisms and thyroid cancer risk. Methods/Principal Findings PubMed and EMBASE database were systematically searched to identify relevant studies. 10 publications were selected for this meta-analysis, including 11 studies for Arg399Gln polymorphism (1726 cases and 3774 controls), 7 studies for Arg194Trp polymorphism (1037 cases and 2487 controls) and 8 studies for Arg280His polymorphism (1432 cases and 3356 controls). The results in total population did not show any significant association between these three polymorphisms and the risk of DTC for all genetic models. However, when stratified by ethnicity, the results showed that Arg280His polymorphism was associated with an increased risk of DTC among Caucasians (Arg/His vs. Arg/Arg: OR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.09–1.93; dominant model: OR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.08–1.89; additive model: OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.05–1.80), whereas individuals carrying Arg/His genotype have a significantly reduced risk of DTC among Asians (Arg/His vs. Arg/Arg: OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.51–0.98). We also detected that 399Gln variant allele carriers might presented an overall decreased risk of DTC in mixed population. Furthermore, subgroup analyses by histological subtype revealed that Arg194Trp polymorphism was significantly associated with reduced risk for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) (dominant model: OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.50–0.99). Conclusions This meta-analysis suggests that Arg280His polymorphism might contribute to the susceptibility of DTC among Caucasians, whereas it might provide protective effects in Asians against the risk of DTC. Additionally, our results support the protective role of Arg194Trp polymorphism in developing PTC, and show evidence of an association between Arg399Gln polymorphism and decreased risk of DTC in mixed population.
Nonendothelial Mesenchymal Cell–Derived MCP-1 Is Required for FGF-2–Mediated Therapeutic Neovascularization: Critical Role of the Inflammatory/Arteriogenic Pathway

Objective—Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) is a C-C chemokine that is known as an inflammatory/arteriogenic factor. Angiogenesis contributes to the inflammatory process; however, the molecular and cellular mechanisms of the links among the inflammatory pathway, arteriogenesis, and angiogenesis have not been well elucidated. Methods and Results—Using murine models of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2)–mediated therapeutic neovascularization, we here show that FGF-2 targets nonendothelial mesenchymal cells (NEMCs) enhancing both angiogenic (vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF]) and arteriogenic (MCP-1) signals via independent signal transduction pathways. Severe hindlimb ischemia stimulated MCP-1 expression that was strongly enhanced by FGF-2 gene transfer, and a blockade of MCP-1 activity via a dominant negative mutant as well as a deficiency of its functional receptor CCR2 resulted in the diminished recovery of blood flow attributable to adaptive and therapeutic neovascularization. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α stimulated MCP-1 expression in all cell types tested, whereas FGF-2–mediated upregulation of MCP-1 was found only in NEMCs but not in others, a finding that was not affected by VEGF in vitro and in vivo. Conclusions—These results indicate that FGF-2 targets NEMCs independently, enhancing both angiogenic (VEGF) as well as inflammatory/arteriogenic (MCP-1) pathways. Therefore, MCP-1/CCR2 plays a critical role in adaptive and FGF-2–mediated therapeutic neovascularization.
Simultaneous Identification of Multiple Unexploded Ordnance Using Electromagnetic Induction Sensors

The simultaneous detection and identification of multiple targets using electromagnetic induction (EMI) time-domain sensors remains a challenge due to the fast decay of the magnetic field with sensor-target distance. For example, the signal from a weak yet shallow target or clutter item can overshadow that from a much larger yet deeper unexploded ordnance (UXO), potentially resulting in erroneous localization and/or identification. We propose, in this paper, a method based on the Gauss-Newton algorithm for the inversion of multiple targets within the field of view of sensors operating at EMI frequencies (tens of hertz to a few hundred kilohertz). In order to minimize the number of unknowns to invert for, the polarizability tensor is written as a time-independent orientation matrix multiplied by a time-dependent diagonal intrinsic polarizability tensor. Similarly, position is supposed to be time independent so that both position and orientation angles are inverted only once using all time channels collected by the instrument. Moreover, using the dipole approximation, we are able to compute the Jacobian in closed form for instruments with either square or circular primary field coils, thus contributing to the speed of the algorithm. Validating results are shown based on the measurement data collected with two EMI sensors on various types of UXO.
A Smooth Converse Lyapunov Theorem for Robust Stability

This paper presents a converse Lyapunov function theorem motivated by robust control analysis and design. Our result is based upon, but generalizes, various aspects of well-known classical theorems. In a unified and natural manner, it (1) allows arbitrary bounded time-varying parameters in the system description, (2) deals with global asymptotic stability, (3) results in smooth (infinitely differentiable) Lyapunov functions, and (4) applies to stability with respect to not necessarily compact invariant sets.
Reconstructing a Cepheid Light Curve with Fourier Techniques. I. The Fourier Expansion and Interrelations

Fourier decomposition is a well-established technique used in the study of stellar pulsation. However, the quality of reconstructed light curves using this method is reduced when the observed data have uneven phase coverage. We use simulated annealing techniques together with Fourier decomposition to improve the quality of the Fourier decomposition for many Optical Gravitational Lensing Experiment LMC fundamental-mode Cepheids. This method restricts the range that Fourier amplitudes can take. The ranges are specified by well-sampled Cepheids in the Galaxy and Magellanic Clouds. We also apply this method to reconstructing Cepheid light curves observed by the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). These typically consist of 12 V-band and four I-band points. We employ a direct Fourier fit to the 12 V-band points using the simulated annealing method mentioned above and explicitly derive and use Fourier interrelations to reconstruct the I-band light curve. We discuss advantages and drawbacks of this method when applied to HST Cepheid data over existing template methods. Application of this method to reconstruct the light curves of Cepheids observed in NGC 4258 shows that the derived Cepheid distance (μ0 = 29.38 ± 0.06 mag, random error) is consistent with its geometrical distance (μ0 = 29.28 ± 0.09 mag) derived from observations of its water maser.
Modeling and Simulation of Self-Similar Variable Bit Rate Compressed Video : A Uni ed Approach

Variable bit rate (VBR) compressed video is expected to become one of the major loading factors in high-speed packet networks such as ATM-based B-ISDN. However, recent measurements based on long empirical traces (complete movies) revealed that VBR video tra c possesses self-similar (or fractal) characteristics, meaning that the dependence in the tra c stream lasts much longer than traditional models can capture. In this paper, we present a uni ed approach which, in addition to accurately modeling the marginal distribution of empirical video records, also models directly both the short and the long-term empirical autocorrelation structures. We also present simulation results using synthetic data and compare with results based on empirical video traces. Furthermore, we extend the application of e cient estimation techniques based on importance sampling that we had used before only for simple fractal processes. We use importance sampling techniques to e ciently estimate low probabilities of packet losses that occur when a multiplexer is fed with synthetic tra c from our self-similar VBR video model.
Achieving On-chip Fault-tolerance Utilizing BIST Resources

Widespread reliability challenges are expected for 65nm and below VLSI fabrication technologies. Effective and efficient on-chip fault-tolerance solutions are required to counter reliability challenges. A new postfabrication reconfigurable and scalable approach of achieving on-chip fault-tolerance, using built-in-self-test (BIST) resources, has been proposed. This paper describes the approach and issues pertaining to its efficient and effective realization. A methodology of using the proposed approach for desired design objectives is also provided. The proposed approach reduces production cost, implementation overhead and time-to-market; increases reusability, post-fabrication reconfigurability and productivity; and is scalable across multiple VLSI processes and feature sizes. This will result in obvious advantages of yield enhancement and prolonged lifetime of
Importance of the Propulsive Phase in Strength Assessment

This study analyzed the contribution of the propulsive and braking phases among different percentages of the one-repetition maximum (1RM) in the concentric bench press exercise. One hundred strength-trained men performed a test with increasing loads up to the 1RM for the individual determination of the load-power relationship. The relative load that maximized the mechanical power output (P(max)) was determined using three different parameters: mean concentric power (MP), mean power of the propulsive phase (MPP) and peak power (PP). The load at which the braking phase no longer existed was 76.1+/-7.4% 1RM. P(max) was dependent on the parameter used: MP (54.2%), MPP (36.5%) or PP (37.4%). No significant differences were found for loads between 40-65% 1RM (MP) or 20-55% 1RM (MPP and PP), nor between P(max) (% 1RM) when using MPP or PP. P(max) was independent of relative strength, although certain tendency towards slightly lower loads was detected for the strongest subjects. These results highlight the importance of considering the contribution of the propulsive and braking phases in isoinertial strength and power assessments. Referring the mean mechanical values to the propulsive phase avoids underestimating an individual's true neuromuscular potential when lifting light and medium loads.
A Chemical Model for Dynamic Workflow Coordination

This paper investigates a chemical workflow enactment model that is intended to coordinate workflows of large set of activities on a large number of resources in a self-evolving nature, based on a chemical analogy. The concept of chemical workflow engine is introduced for a concurrent, self-coordinating enactment exploiting as much parallelism as inherently present. The concept is aimed at supporting a generalized workflow language without any restrictions, modeling most workflow patterns, separating data and control flow, supporting dynamic changes by multiple versions and instances. The paper presents the notion and model of the chemical based coordination.
Mature oocyte retrieval during laparotomic debulking surgery following random-start controlled ovarian stimulation for fertility preservation in a patient with suspected ovarian cancer

Herein, we report a case of successful mature oocyte retrieval during laparotomy after random-start controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) in a 21-year-old nulliparous woman with suspected recurrent ovarian immature teratoma. The patient had been diagnosed with stage IIIC immature teratoma two years earlier following a staging operation, including right oophorectomy and left ovarian cystectomy. And she had subsequently undergone four rounds of postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy with bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin. Approximately two years after the initial surgery, she was strongly suspected of having recurrent ovarian immature teratoma on radiologic follow-up. We performed random-start COS and in vivo oocyte retrieval during laparotomic debulking surgery including left oophorectomy. Eight mature oocytes were successfully retrieved and vitrified for fertility preservation. The final pathologic diagnosis was mature cystic teratoma of the ovary and peritoneal implants consistent with gliomatosis peritonei. This is the first case report in which random-start COS and in vivo oocyte retrieval were performed.
Video-on-Demand Networks: Design Approaches and Future Challenges

IP network based deployments of interactive video-on-demand (VoD) systems are today very limited in scope, but there is a strong belief among telecommunication companies that this market will expand exponentially in the next few years. In this article, we outline the components of VoD architectures and survey the current approaches to their design. We strive to identify the research challenges that must be addressed in the development of design tools that can determine how to expand upon an existing network infrastructure to support video-on-demand. The long tail of content and extensive growth in usage are expected to have a major impact on the streaming and storage requirements of such systems. Hybrid VoD architectures that incorporate peer-to-peer exchange are an extremely promising paradigm, but there are many challenges in developing operational and economically feasible peer-to-peer systems. VoD networks generate sufficient traffic that their impact should be considered in planning general network infrastructure expansions
An Advanced Surveillance-Advertiser Data Network for E-City Management Using "H264/AVC-Pseudo-PWM" Technique

This paper demonstrates a high performance urban advertiser and monitoring system controlled by an e-government. This system consists of several cameras and video displays installed at different points of a city. A main control core (MCC) collects and combines compressed data of cameras, then processes and reports them to the network administrator via a TCP-IP network. The administrator sends appropriate compressed message to LED video displays via the network. One of the important advantages of our approach is the suggestion of H264/AVC Video compression and Pseudo-PWM compression at up link and down link paths respectively. The performance and quality of service is also improved by Sum of Absolute Differences (SAD) method. The aim of this design is to create a method capable of providing good video quality at substantially lower bit rates than previous standards, without increasing the complexity, size and price of the design.
Similarity Search in Trajectory Databases

Trajectory database (TD) management is a relatively new topic of database research, which has emerged due to the explosion of mobile devices and positioning technologies. Trajectory similarity search forms an important class of queries in TD with applications in trajectory data analysis and spatiotemporal knowledge discovery. In contrast to related works which make use of generic similarity metrics that virtually ignore the temporal dimension, in this paper we introduce a framework consisting of a set of distance operators based on primitive (space and time) as well as derived parameters of trajectories (speed and direction). The novelty of the approach is not only to provide qualitatively different means to query for similar trajectories, but also to support trajectory clustering and classification mining tasks, which definitely imply a way to quantify the distance between two trajectories. For each of the proposed distance operators we devise highly parametric algorithms, the efficiency of which is evaluated through an extensive experimental study using synthetic and real trajectory datasets.
Programming with permissions in Mezzo

We present Mezzo, a typed programming language of ML lineage. Mezzo is equipped with a novel static discipline of duplicable and affine permissions, which controls aliasing and ownership. This rules out certain mistakes, including representation exposure and data races, and enables new idioms, such as gradual initialization, memory re-use, and (type)state changes. Although the core static discipline disallows sharing a mutable data structure, Mezzo offers several ways of working around this restriction, including a novel dynamic ownership control mechanism which we dub "adoption and abandon".
Breathe In, Breathe Out: Utilizing Mindfulness in the Social Work Practicum

Mindfulness is defined as the ability to be aware of your thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and actions – in the present moment – without judging or criticizing yourself or your experience (McKay, Wood, & Brantley, 2007). It has been used in a variety of settings and in a variety of ways. Within the context of social work, mindfulness can be used to prevent burnout and increase awareness. This paper reports research on teaching mindfulness techniques with the purpose of training students to use mindfulness and improve their professional development. Specifically, the paper presents the following: review of current literature on the professional use of mindfulness; a description of the research design and methods; and analysis of the data; and a discussion of the implications for the use of teaching mindfulness to prevent burnout and increase awareness.
Bayesian graph edit distance

This paper describes a novel framework for comparing and matching corrupted relational graphs. The normalised edit distance of Marzal and Vidal (1993) can be used to model the probability distribution for structural errors in the graph-matching problem. This probability distribution is used to locate matches using MAP label updates. We compare this criterion with that recently reported by Wilson and Hancock (1997). The use of edit distance offers an elegant alternative to the exhaustive compilation of label dictionaries. Moreover the method is polynomial rather than exponential in its worst-case complexity. We support our approach with an experimental study on synthetic data, and illustrate its effectiveness on an uncalibrated stereo correspondence problem.
The least spanning area of a knot and the optimal bounding chain problem

Two fundamental objects in knot theory are the minimal genus surface and the least area surface bounded by a knot in a 3-dimensional manifold. When the knot is embedded in a general 3-manifold, the problems of finding these surfaces were shown to be NP-complete and NP-hard respectively. However, there is evidence that the special case when the ambient manifold is R^3, or more generally when the second homology is trivial, should be considerably more tractable. Indeed, we show here that a natural discrete version of the least area surface can be found in polynomial time. The precise setting is that the knot is a 1-dimensional subcomplex of a triangulation of the ambient 3-manifold. The main tool we use is a linear programming formulation of the Optimal Bounding Chain Problem (OBCP), where one is required to find the smallest norm chain with a given boundary. While the decision variant of OBCP is NP-complete in general, we give conditions under which it can be solved in polynomial time. We then show that the least area surface can be constructed from the optimal bounding chain using a standard desingularization argument from 3-dimensional topology. We also prove that the related Optimal Homologous Chain Problem is NP-complete for homology with integer coefficients, complementing the corresponding result of Chen and Freedman for mod 2 homology.
Using Trust and Provenance for Content Filtering on the Semantic Web

Social networks are a popular movement on the web. Trust can be used eectively on the Semantic Web as annotations to social relationships. In this paper, we present a two level approach to integrating trust, provenance, and annotations in Semantic Web systems. We describe an algorithm for inferring trust relationships using provenance information and trust annotations in Semantic Web-based social networks. Then, we present two applications that combine the computed trust values with the provenance of other annotations to personalize websites. The FilmTrust system uses trust to compute personalized recommended movie ratings and to order reviews. An open source intelligence portal, Profiles In Terror, also has a beta system that integrates social networks with trust annotations. We believe that these two systems illustrate a unique way of using trust annotations and provenance to process information on the Semantic Web.
Statistical Information Processing Extending the Limits of Approximate Computing ∗

Application-level tolerance to approximations is commonly exploited in approximate computing research today. This paper focuses on how this can be leveraged towards tolerance to nonidealities in circuit/device fabrics (variations, defects). Errors due to the computation fabrics can arise either due to reduction of design margins, e.g., to push the limits of energy efficiency and throughput in CMOS, or due to intrinsically-high defect rates and variability in late-CMOS and non-mature post-CMOS fabrics. An architectural framework referred to as statistical information processing is presented, whereby algorithmic approaches, both explicit and implicit, are employed with the objective of maximizing this leverage while meeting application-level requirements. To realize this objective, this paper highlights: (i) data-error tolerant accelerators based on techniques from statistical signal processing and machine learning; (ii) effective management of catastrophic control errors; (iii) appropriate programming models; and (iv) accurate microarchitectural and architectural error modeling based on realistic device-level fault models.