Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Turbo block Bayesian decision feedback equalizer

Turbo equalizer (TEQ) is well known for its tremendous performance gain over a severe intersymbol interference (ISI) channel. However, the original MAPSE-based (maximum a posteriori symbol estimation) equalization algorithm is still not practical for implementation under long channel memory and high modulation level scenarios. In this paper, we consider using the much simpler decision-feedback equalizer (DFE) structure designed by a Bayesian MMSE (BMMSE) criterion to tackle the above computational problem. In so doing, the DFE makes use of the feedback extrinsic likelihoods from the decoder as the estimate of the a priori probabilities of transmission symbols, and BMMSE design formulae are derived for symbol-updating of the feedforward and feedback filter coefficients. To further reduce the computational load, a turbo block Bayesian decision-feedback equalizer (TBB-DFE) is then proposed which updates the DFE coefficient only once a block. The simulation results show that for a severe 5-tape ISI and 8-PSK case, while the conventional nonturbo DFE receiver completely fails, and the MAPSE has too many trellis states, our TBB-DFE receiver can attain a BER of 10/sup -3/ at an E/sub b//N/sub 0/ of 19 dB after 6 iterations. Thus the TBB-DFE can serve as a low-complexity TEQ approach under high-level modulation and long channel memory situation.
Classifying gait features for stance and swing using machine learning

Structured gait patterns are currently used as a biometric technique to recognize individuals and in building appropriate exoskeleton technologies. In this study, the features involved in gait were extracted and analyzed. Multiple accelerometers were used to collect the data which was then used to identify gait at various axial positions form healthy volunteers with total of 60 trails. Using machine learning optimal feature sub-selection we analyze data to implicate the optimal methods for analysis of swing phase and stance phase in a closed room environment. Study reports that the accelerometer data could classify based on the accuracy and the efficiency of the learning algorithms. Through feature ranking, results suggest gait can be attributed to a combination of Brachium of arm, Antecubitis, Carpus, Coxal, Femur and Tarsus (Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist, Hip, Knee, and Ankle). This gait study may help analyzing conditions during control and movement-related disease.
Copy number variation at 6q13 is associated with lung cancer risk in a Han Chinese population

ABSTRACT Copy number variations (CNVs), a major source of human genetic polymorphism, have been suggested to have an important role in genetic susceptibility to common diseases such as cancer, immune diseases, and neurological disorders. Lung cancer is a multifactorial tumor closely associated with genetic background. Previous genome-wide association studies have identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are associated with lung cancer susceptibility. This study examined the CNVR2966.1 at 6q13 and its association with lung cancer susceptibility. The CNVR2966.1 was found to be a 10,379 bp nucleotides deletion/insertion within the uniform boundaries chromosome 6: 74,648,791–74,659,169. The risk of lung cancer observed in 503 cases and 623 controls was significantly associated with copy number of CNVR2966.1, with the odds ratio (OR) being 1.38 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.05–1.79; P = . 007] for one copy genotype compared with two copies genotype. These results suggest that CNVR2966.1 is associated with lung cancer risk.
Search by example in TouchDevelop: Code search made easy

Code search has always been essential to software development; it is the cornerstone of activities such as program comprehension and maintenance. Traditionally, code search required learning of complex query languages with very steep learning curves. In contrast, programming environments for mobile devices targeting novice programmers are becoming popular and code search is becoming increasingly important. Yet, dedicated code query languages present a learning barrier for novice programmers. In this paper we consider “search-by-example” as a way of dealing with this problem. Given a query code snippet, we find all similar snippets in the codebase and present them to the user. This problem is a special instance of the clone detection problem, and, by using relevant techniques, we can perform precise code search with little to no configuration and completely agnostic of code formatting, variable renamings, etc. These properties make “search-by-example” very easy to use by inexperienced programmers. We built a prototype of our approach in TouchDevelop, a novel mobile app development environment for Windows Phone. We will use it as a testing ground for future evaluation.
The Demonstration of Plasmin Agglutinators in Human Sera 1

Plasmin agglutinators are natural IgG anti‐Fab antibodies. These antibodies bind to erythrocytes which are coated with the Fab fragments of anti‐Rh antibodies that have been hydrolyzed with plasmin. The plasmin agglutinators are demonstrable in most human sera albeit in low titer. These agglutinators can be inhibited with Fab fragments that have been hydrolyzed with subtilisin, bromelin, trypsin, and plasmin but cannot be inhibited by Fab fragments from pepsin, ficin, chymotrypsin, papain or elastase digests.
Nosocomial Infections Caused by Multidrug-Resistant Isolates of Pseudomonas putida Producing VIM-1 Metallo-β-Lactamase

ABSTRACT Successful carbapenem-based chemotherapy for the treatment of Pseudomonas infections has been seriously hindered by the recent appearance of IMP- and VIM-type metallo-β-lactamases, which confer high-level resistance to carbapenems and most other β-lactams. Recently, multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas putida isolates for which carbapenem MICs were ≥32 μg/ml were recovered from cultures of urine from three inpatients in the general intensive care unit of the Ospedale di Circolo, Varese, Italy. Enzyme assays revealed production of a metallo-β-lactamase activity, while molecular analysis detected in each isolate a blaVIM-1 determinant carried by an apparently identical medium-sized plasmid. Conjugation experiments were unsuccessful in transferring the β-lactamase determinant to Escherichia coli or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Macrorestriction analysis by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis demonstrated that the isolates were of clonal origin. PCR mapping and sequencing of the variable region of the plasmid-borne class 1 integron carrying the blaVIM-1 determinant (named In110) showed that the blaVIM-1-containing cassette was identical to that previously found in strains of different species from other Italian hospitals and that the cassette array of In110 was not identical but clearly related to that of In70 (a blaVIM-1-containing plasmid-borne integron from an Achromobacter xylosoxidans isolate), pointing to a common origin of this cassette and to a related evolutionary history of their cognate integrons.
CONSUMERS BEHAVIOUR AS REFLECTION OF FOOD SECURITY AT REGIONAL LEVEL IN HONDURAS

The primary driver of food security or insecurity is the food system which creates a framework of approach to study and also solving this issue in region. The case study is analyzing the availability and accessibility of food in settlements Sangrelaya and Cocalito in Honduras. The local food system and its functioning are characterized on the base of research and analysis of food consumption practices and the food situation perception. The research results show that the inhabitants of villages Sangrelaya and Cocalito suffer from food insecurity mostly due to the threat of spatial and economic insufficient access to food.
An Agent-Based Model of Eurasia and Simulation of Consequences of Large Infrastructure Projects

The implementation of large infrastructure projects has a significant impact on the spatial location of production and change of trade flows. It causes the changes in migration flows and influences the socio-economic development of territories involved in the project. Preliminary assessment of the consequences of the implementation of similar projects requires the use of models. One of the modern directions of simulating is the agent-based approach. It allows to recreate a structure and behaviour of real socioeconomic systems in an artificial environment and to imitate their behaviour if external conditions change. The realism of the simulation of the main socio-economic processes determines the success of pursuing agent-based models to meet the challenges of forecasting. The article describes the construction of the agent-based model of the countries of Eurasia, imitating the basic processes of population movement in these countries, as well as the consequences of implementing large infrastructure projects as a result of the actions of many independent agents. There are two types of agents in the model: a) countries that are capable of lobbying for the implementation of profitable projects, and b) people who live in these countries, who create families, give birth to children and choose the type of activity and place of residence. In agents behaviourâ€™s algorithm, we consider factors, revealed as a result of the research of actual migration processes in the countries of Eurasia. This has allowed to recreate in the model the imitation of peopleâ€™s behaviour close to reality. The model construction was tested for two routes of New Silk Road. During the experiments, we monitored the changes of economic and demographic indicators for each participating country. Thus, for Russia the growth of total trade turnover (9.6 %) and net export (1.5 %) was observed. Participation in the project gave to China the growth 3.8 % and 7.7 %, respectively. The small countries (Georgia, Bulgaria) showed the reduction of migration outflow and improvement of age structure of the population. The model can be used for preliminary assessment of the consequences of the large infrastructure projects implementation.
Understanding workers’ adoption of productivity mobile applications: a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA)

Abstract Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets become more present in our lives every day. Most of these devices use the Android operating system (O.S.), becoming the most popular O.S. for mobile devices. For these devices, there is a huge offer of application software that provides answers to users’ different needs. This study aims to analyse how combinations of personality factors, sociodemographic variables and Internet use influence the adoption of productivity mobile apps by workers. To achieve this, a combination of these variables is analysed using fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA.) that allows us to analyse complex complementarities among factors. The results show the importance of distinct personality traits – extraversion and agreeableness – to understand the adoption of these services. Our study also provides relevant insight for software developers to target segments interested in the use of productivity software in their mobile devices.
Undertreatment of Mental Health Problems in Adults With Diagnosed Diabetes and Serious Psychological Distress

OBJECTIVE To assess the prevalence and correlates of undertreatment for mental health problems among adults with diabetes and serious psychological distress (SPD). RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We analyzed data of adults aged ≥18 years from the 2007 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. SPD was assessed with the Kessler-6 scale. RESULTS The prevalence of untreated SPD was estimated to be 2.1 ± 0.1% (mean ± SE), 3.4 ± 0.3%, and 2.0 ± 0.1% in the total population, diabetic population, and nondiabetic population, respectively. Among people with SPD, those with diagnosed diabetes had a lower rate of undertreatment for mental health problems (45.0%) than those without diabetes (54.9%) (P = 0.002). Nonwhite race/ethnicity, advanced age, lack of health insurance, and currently being employed were associated with increased likelihood of undertreatment for mental health problems (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS People with diagnosed diabetes may be screened for SPD and treated for specific mental health problems in routine health care.
Method for Saving Energy Battery Based in Context for Android Phones

Nowadays, the main problem we found in most smartphones is the poor battery life when using applications that make an intensive use of connectivity services. This becomes a serious problem in specific applications such as telemedicine; where services such as WiFi and 3G connection are the largest consumers of energy, but are essential for the transfer of data required by these applications. This paper examines different energy consumption studies on mobile devices via WiFi and 3G. After this analysis, we propose and test a method for choosing the network with lower energy consumption based on the characteristics of the data transfer context that the application requires.
Expression of human serum albumin in milk of transgenic mice using goat β-casein/human serum albumin fusion gene

The gene encoding human serum albumin (HSA) was cloned from human liver cDNA library by PCR. The HSA cDNA in size of 2,176 bp, including 1,830 bp of open reading frame, was cloned into the plasmid carried with the 5' flanking sequence of goat (3-casein gene (-4,044 to +2,025 bp) to get a tissue specific expression vector in mammary gland named pGB562/HSA (12.5 kb). A 9.6 kb DNA fragment in which the sequence is in order of goat β-casein gene regulatory sequence, HSA cDNA and SV40 polyadenylation signals was isolated from the pGB562/HSA by SacI and DraIII cutting, and used to microinject into the pronuclei of mouse fertilized eggs to produce transgenic mice. Three transgenic mice (2 female and I male) were identified by PCR and dot Southern blot analysis. The copy numbers of integrated transgene were more than 10 copies in line #21 and #26 as well as over 50 copies in line #31 of transgenic mice. HSA protein collected from the milk of lactating transgenic mice was confirmed by immuno-detection of Western and slot blot. The concentrations of HSA in the milk were from 0.05 to 0.4 mg/ml. An obvious antigen and antibody conjugate could be observed in immunohistochemical stain of mammary gland tissue from lactating day 11 of HSA transgenic mice. The transmission of transgene and its expression was recognized according to the results of RT-PCR and sequences analyses of their progeny.
Human Daxx regulates Fas‐induced apoptosis from nuclear PML oncogenic domains (PODs)

Daxx was first identified as a protein that binds the cytosolic domain of Fas and links this receptor to an apoptosis pathway involving activation of Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK). We show here that cells overexpressing the human homolog of Daxx (hDaxx) display enhanced sensitivity to apoptosis induced by Fas but not by several other cell death stimuli. hDaxx‐mediated enhancement of Fas‐induced apoptosis was correlated with accelerated activation of caspases but not with JNK induction. Although specifically enhancing Fas function, hDaxx does not bind Fas and instead is found in the nucleus where it localizes to PML oncogenic domains (PODs). Moreover, the hDaxx protein also exhibits the ability to repress transcription. Mutagenesis studies demonstrated a correlation between the localization of hDaxx to PODs and its ability to enhance Fas‐induced cell death. Arsenic trioxide (As2O3), an agent that accentuates POD formation, collaborated synergistically with overexpression of hDaxx to increase cellular sensitivity to Fas‐induced apoptosis. Taken together, these findings argue that hDaxx promotes sensitivity to Fas from a nuclear location, probably by modulating the transcription of genes involved in Fas‐induced caspase activation and apoptosis.
Mechanism Connecting Environmental Friendliness to Service Loyalty: The Role of Positive Customer Emotions and Satisfaction

Abstract This research explores the mechanisms linking consumers’ perceptions of the environmental friendliness of service to customer loyalty. It investigates positive emotions evoked by perceptions of environmental friendliness and then links these emotions to customer satisfaction and loyalty as outcome variables. The data for testing a set of hypotheses was collected from a sample of over 150 consumers for three service industries, each. The results suggest that positive emotions in the form of “warm glow” feelings and sense of belonging are encouraged by environmental friendliness. The positive emotions have direct impacts on satisfaction, but show mixed impacts on loyalty.
Fetal karyotype following ascertainment of fetal anomalies by ultrasound

Data pooled from contributors to a Registry for Cytogenetic Abnormalities and PKU (ReCAP) shows an unbalanced chromosome abnormality rate of 27 per cent (29 fetuses) for 107 fetuses with ultrasonically diagnosed fetal anomalies. Of the abnormal, 12 were trisomic, 6 were monosomy X and 6 were structural abnormalities, 4 were mosaics and one triploid.
THE FORCE-FREE MAGNETOSPHERE OF A ROTATING BLACK HOLE

We revisit the Blandford–Znajek process and solve the fundamental equation that governs the structure of the steady-state force-free magnetosphere around a Kerr black hole. The solution depends on the distributions of the magnetic field angular velocity ω and the poloidal electric current I. These are not arbitrary. They are determined self-consistently by requiring that magnetic field lines cross smoothly the two singular surfaces of the problem: the inner “light surface” located inside the ergosphere and the outer “light surface” which is the generalization of the pulsar light cylinder. We find the solution for the simplest possible magnetic field configuration, the split monopole, through a numerical iterative relaxation method analogous to the one that yields the structure of the steady-state axisymmetric force-free pulsar magnetosphere. We obtain the rate of electromagnetic extraction of energy and confirm the results of Blandford and Znajek and of previous time-dependent simulations. Furthermore, we discuss the physical applicability of magnetic field configurations that do not cross both “light surfaces. ”
The Fuzzy Logic Method to Efficiently Optimize Electricity Consumption in Individual Housing

Electricity demand shifting and reduction still raise a huge interest for end-users at the household level, especially because of the ongoing design of a dynamic pricing approach. In particular, end-users must act as the starting point for decreasing their consumption during peak hours to prevent the need to extend the grid and thus save considerable costs. This article points out the relevance of a fuzzy logic algorithm to efficiently predict short term load consumption (STLC). This approach is the cornerstone of a new home energy management (HEM) algorithm which is able to optimize the cost of electricity consumption, while smoothing the peak demand. The fuzzy logic modeling involves a strong reliance on a complete database of real consumption data from many instrumented show houses. The proposed HEM algorithm enables any end-user to manage his electricity consumption with a high degree of flexibility and transparency, and “reshape” the load profile. For example, this can be mainly achieved using smart control of a storage system coupled with remote management of the electric appliances. The simulation results demonstrate that an accurate prediction of STLC gives the possibility of achieving optimal planning and operation of the HEM system.
Fecal Transplantation for Recurrent Clostridium difficile Infection in Older Adults: A Review

Recurrent Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a common nosocomial infection that has a large effect on morbidity and quality of life in older adults in hospitals and long‐term care facilities. Because antibiotics are often unsuccessful in curing this disease, fecal transplantation has emerged as a second‐line therapy for treatment of recurrent CDI. A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science regarding fecal transplantation for CDI was performed to further evaluate the efficacy and side effects of this promising therapy in older adults. Data were extracted from 10 published articles from 1984 to the present that met inclusion criteria, including nine open‐label reports and one randomized controlled trial. Baseline characteristics and outcomes of individuals undergoing fecal transplantation and effects of fecal transplantation on the fecal microflora were reviewed. Methods of fecal transplantation and donor selection were reviewed. Fecal transplantation was performed in 115 individuals aged 60 to 101, with a female predominance. CDI cure was achieved in 103 (89.6%) individuals over a follow‐up period of 2 months to 5 years (mean 5.9 months). There was no significant difference in cure rate between older and younger participants in included studies. Most failed transplantation occurred in individuals infected with the aggressive NAP1/027 strain of C. difficile. Microbiological studies of fecal biodiversity before and after fecal transplantation demonstrated greater bacterial diversity and shift in flora species to resemble donor flora after transplantation that correlated with clinical remission. Fecal transplantation provides a safe and durable cure for older adults with recurrent CDI.
Efficacy of Hypotonic 0.18% Sodium Hyaluronate Eye Drops in Patients With Dry Eye Disease

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of hypotonic 0.18% sodium hyaluronate (SH) eye drops under the clinical settings of the dry eye workshop treatment guideline for mild dry eye disease (DED). Methods: This analysis included 60 patients with DED. Patients with level 1 DED were treated with either isotonic 0.1% SH (group 1) or with hypotonic 0.18% SH eye drops (group 2). Patients with level 2 DED were treated with 0.1% fluorometholone, 0.05% cyclosporine A, and either isotonic 0.1% SH (group 3) or hypotonic 0.18% SH (group 4) eye drops. Tear film breakup time (TBUT), Schirmer test, corneal staining with fluorescein, and ocular surface disease index score were recorded at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months after treatment. Results: In group 2, TBUT at 3 months (P = 0.03) and corneal staining scores at 1 and 3 months (P ⩽ 0.03) were significantly improved after the treatment compared with baseline scores, whereas these parameters were not changed during the follow-up period in group 1. In groups 3 and 4, TBUT and corneal staining scores at 1 and 3 months, and ocular surface disease index score and Schirmer test results at 3 months after the treatment showed significant improvements compared with the baseline score (P < 0.05). Group 4 patients showed an extended TBUT and an improved corneal staining score (P ⩽ 0.01) at 3 months after treatment, compared with the values of group 3. Conclusions: Hypotonic 0.18% SH eye drops seemed to be effective in improving tear film stability and ocular surface integrity compared with isotonic 0.1% SH eye drops in patients with mild DED.