Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Fully Dynamic Algorithm for Top-k Densest Subgraphs

Given a large graph,the densest-subgraph problem asks to find a subgraph with maximum average degree. When considering the top-k version of this problem, a naïve solution is to iteratively find the densest subgraph and remove it in each iteration. However, such a solution is impractical due to high processing cost. The problem is further complicated when dealing with dynamic graphs, since adding or removing an edge requires re-running the algorithm. In this paper, we study the top-k densest-subgraph problem in the sliding-window model and propose an efficient fully-dynamic algorithm. The input of our algorithm consists of an edge stream, and the goal is to find the node-disjoint subgraphs that maximize the sum of their densities. In contrast to existing state-of-the-art solutions that require iterating over the entire graph upon any update, our algorithm profits from the observation that updates only affect a limited region of the graph. Therefore, the top-k densest subgraphs are maintained by only applying local updates. We provide a theoretical analysis of the proposed algorithm and show empirically that the algorithm often generates denser subgraphs than state-of-the-art competitors. Experiments show an improvement in efficiency of up to five orders of magnitude compared to state-of-the-art solutions.
An active learning method under very limited initial labeled data

Active learning methods seek to reduce the number of labeled instances needed to train an effective classifier. Most current methods assume the availability of some reasonable amount of initially labeled training data so that the learners can be trained with sufficient quality. However, for many applications, the amount of initial training data is often limited, this will affect the quality of the initial learners, which, in turn, affect the performance of the active learning methods. In this paper, we introduce a new non-parametric active learning strategy that can perform well even under very limited initial training data. Our method selects the query instance that simultaneously maximizes its label uncertainty and the classification accuracy on the unlabelled test data. Our method hence avoids selecting outliers and does not require good initial learner. The experimental results with benchmark datasets show that our method outperforms state of the art methods especially when the amount of the initially labeled data is small or when the quality of the initially labeled data is poor.
A Variational Surface Deformation and Subdivision-Based Modeling Framework for Noisy and Small n-Furcated Tube-Like Structures

It is challenging to construct an accurate and smooth mesh for noisy and small n-furcated tube-like structures, such as arteries, veins, and pathological vessels, due to tiny vessel size, noise, n -furcations, and irregular shapes of pathological vessels. We propose a framework by dividing the modeling process into mesh construction and mesh refinement. In the first step, we focus on mesh topological correctness, and just create an initial rough mesh for the n-furcated tube-like structures. In the second step, we propose a variational surface deformation method to push the initial mesh to structure boundaries for positional accuracy improvement. By iteratively solving Euler-Lagrange equations derived from the minimization of the shell and distance energies, the initial mesh can be gradually pushed to the boundaries. A mesh dilation method is proposed to prevent the extremely deviated initial mesh moving toward wrong boundaries. We combine deformation and subdivision to propose a coarse-to-fine modeling framework for the improvement of efficiency and accuracy. Experiments show our method can construct an accurate and smooth mesh for noisy and small n-furcated tube-like structures, and it is useful in hemodynamics, quantitative measurement, and analysis of vessels.
Ruga mechanics of creasing: from instantaneous to setback creases

We present mechanics of surface creasing caused by lateral compression of a nonlinear neo-Hookean solid surface, with its elastic stiffness decaying exponentially with depth. Nonlinear bifurcation stability analysis reveals that neo-Hookean solid surfaces can develop instantaneous surface creasing under compressive strains greater than 0.272 but less than 0.456. It is found that instantaneous creasing is set off when the compressive strain is large enough, and the longest-admissible perturbation wavelength relative to the decay length of the elastic modulus is shorter than a critical value. A compressive strain smaller than 0.272 can only trigger bifurcation of a stable wrinkle that can prompt a setback crease upon further compression. The minimum compressive strain required to develop setback creasing is found to be 0.174. If the relative longest-admissible perturbation wavelength is long enough, then the wrinkle can fold before it creases, and the specimen can be compressed further beyond the Biot critical strain limit of 0.456. Various bifurcation branches on a plane of normalized longest-admissible wavelength versus compressive strain delineate different phases of corrugated surface configurations to form a ruga phase diagram. The phase diagram will be useful for understating surface crease, as well as for controlling ruga structures for various applications, such as designing stretchable electronics.
Effects of N-3 Fatty Acids on Hepatic Triglyceride Content in Humans

Background Because dietary N-3 fatty acids reduce plasma triglycerides, they may also decrease hepatic triglyceride content. If so, N-3 fatty acids might constitute a therapy for fatty liver. Methods Twenty-two subjects were recruited into a study designed to test the effects of N-3 fatty acids on liver fat content. Seventeen completed the trial that had a sequential design of 4-week placebo followed by an 8-week treatment with 9 g/d of fish oil. Liver fat was measured during placebo and treatment by magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Compliance was assessed by capsule count at the end of each study phase and measurement of fatty acid composition in plasma triglyceride and phospholipid. Plasma lipoproteins and adiponectin were also measured. Results Treatment with fish oils reduced significantly levels of plasma triglyceride by 46% (P <.03), very low-density lipoprotein + intermediate density lipoprotein cholesterol by 21% (P <.03), total apolipoprotein B by 15% (P <.03). In contrast to the changes in plasma triglycerides, hepatic triglyceride content was not significantly reduced by fish oil treatment. Conclusions N-3 fatty acids at high doses lower plasma triglyceride levels, but there are no significant decreases in hepatic content of triglyceride for the group as a whole. Whereas the triglyceride lowering is uniform, the liver response is more variable.
CMOS-Based Optoelectronic On-Chip Neural Interface Device

On-chip neural interface devices based on CMOS image sensor technology are proposed and demonstrated. The devices were designed with target applications to optogenetics in bioscience. Multifunctional CMOS image sensors equipped with an addressable on-chip electrode array were integrated with a functional interface chip that contained embedded GaInN light emitting diodes (LEDs) and electrodes to create a neural interface. Detailed design information regarding the CMOS sensor chip and the functional interface chip including the packaging structure and fabrication processes are presented in this paper. The on-chip optical stimulation functionality was demonstrated in an in vitro experiment using neuron-like cells cultured on the proposed device. key words: CMOS image sensor, optogenetics, on-chip bioimaging, optical stimulation, GaInN LED, implantable electronics
The Influence of Functional Diversity and Composition on Ecosystem Processes

Humans are modifying both the identities and numbers of species in ecosystems, but the impacts of such changes on ecosystem processes are controversial. Plant species diversity, functional diversity, and functional composition were experimentally varied in grassland plots. Each factor by itself had significant effects on many ecosystem processes, but functional composition and functional diversity were the principal factors explaining plant productivity, plant percent nitrogen, plant total nitrogen, and light penetration. Thus, habitat modifications and management practices that change functional diversity and functional composition are likely to have large impacts on ecosystem processes.
Energy saving potentials in the radio access through relaying in future networks

The progressive deployment of cell sites in wireless networks to deal with the massive demand of wireless services experienced in the last years has led to a huge increase in energy consumption and associated operational expenditures for wireless network operators. As a result, significant research efforts are being recently devoted towards energy efficient wireless communications. The use of relay nodes that enhance coverage/capacity in wireless systems has been identified as a means to improve energy efficiency thanks to the associated reduction in transmit power. In this context, this paper presents the assessment of the energy savings that can be achieved by means of relaying in a wireless system. As a difference from prior works where the impact of relaying on energy efficiency is obtained as a result of multiple aggregated effects, the analysis performed in this paper will highlight, separately, the role played by each of the key elements influencing on the performance, such as the propagation and shadowing effects, the energy consumption model parameters and the influence of the bit rate and spectral efficiency.
INVESTIGATION OF THE BASIC FORCES INVOLVED IN THE ADHESION OF ICE TO HIGHWAY SURFACES

Improved knowledge of the basic forces contributing to the adhesion of ice to highway surfaces was the objective of the research performed. Tensile and shear interfacial strength tests formed the main thrust of the experimental program. Tests were carried out over the temperature range -0.5 deg C to -20 deg C for several concrete mixes, mortar and asphalt. Surface treatments including NaCl, CaC12, a Silicone compound, a fluorocarbon compound and a mineral oil (#2 diesel fuel). The salts were effective in reducing adhesion above -8 deg C; the other materials were more effective, especially at lower temperatures. In fact, diesel oil is a long term contaminant which must be avoided for tests on concrete. The wetting temperature of a clean substrate has also been shown to be a factor. Modified concretes showed reduced adhesion. Results of numerical modeling of an ice/concrete interface show stress concentration factors greater than one due to material dissimilarities, penetration of one material into the other, and non-homogeneous substrate. Tensile strength measurements four pure ice have been made, and failure criteria for the interface have been developed from them. Moisture adsorption and heats of wetting experiments for Quartzite, limestone, sand, and P.C. Mortar have been taken. Adsorption site areas and energies have been deduced. Data is being interpreted to disclose the role of capillary effects and the influence of fluorocarbon treatment. Results obtained indicate that both mechanical and chemical binding are important at the ice/concrete interface, and that the interfacial strength can be weakened by substrate modification, substrate treatments, or solute treatment. (FHWA)
The Biochemical Detection of Biliary Etiology of Acute Pancreatitis on Admission: A Revisit in the Modern Era of Biliary Imaging

Introduction Compared with traditional radiologic methods for the detection of cholelithiasis, early transient hypertransaminasemia had provided a useful prediction of biliary etiology in patients with acute pancreatitis. Aim To investigate whether this application remains valid in the modern era of imaging for microlithiasis. Methodology The biochemical detection (LFT) of cholelithiasis was based on an increase in serum alanine transaminase of ≥80 IU/L (normal range, 0–45 IU/L) within 24 hours of admission. We have taken the collective findings of abdominal ultrasound (USS), endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and postmortem examination to represent the denominator for the diagnosis of cholelithiasis against which comparison with LFT was made. Results Of 68 patients with acute pancreatitis who were treated between October 2000 and December 2001, cholelithiasis was the etiological factor in 44 patients (65%). EUS detected microlithiasis in 5 of 10 patients examined. The etiology remained idiopathic in 3 patients (4.4%). The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for USS were 86%, 100%, 100%, and 80% respectively; for LFT, they were 91%, 100%, 100%, and 86%; and for USS and LFT combined, they were 98%, 100%, 100%, and 96%, respectively. Conclusions In patients with acute pancreatitis, the biochemical analysis within 24 hours of admission provided a simple, rapid, and more accurate prediction of cholelithiasis than USS. The combination of LFT and USS detected or excluded a biliary etiology in almost all patients.
Comparative opinion sentences identification and elements extraction

This paper presents a subsystem for analyzing the comparative opinion sentences. This subsystem consists of three modules. Firstly, rule-based and CSR-based method is developed to identify comparative sentences, respectively. Secondly, in opinion element extraction module, CRFs model is applied to label elements. Finally, in the polarity determination module, some heuristic rules are complied to classify different types of comparative sentences. The evaluations on COAE2012 dataset show that the proposed analysis subsystem achieves a good result.
Reducing the Storage Overhead of Main-Memory OLTP Databases with Hybrid Indexes

Using indexes for query execution is crucial for achieving high performance in modern on-line transaction processing databases. For a main-memory database, however, these indexes consume a large fraction of the total memory available and are thus a major source of storage overhead of in-memory databases. To reduce this overhead, we propose using a two-stage index: The first stage ingests all incoming entries and is kept small for fast read and write operations. The index periodically migrates entries from the first stage to the second, which uses a more compact, read-optimized data structure. Our first contribution is hybrid index, a dual-stage index architecture that achieves both space efficiency and high performance. Our second contribution is Dual-Stage Transformation (DST), a set of guidelines for converting any order-preserving index structure into a hybrid index. Our third contribution is applying DST to four popular order-preserving index structures and evaluating them in both standalone microbenchmarks and a full in-memory DBMS using several transaction processing workloads. Our results show that hybrid indexes provide comparable throughput to the original ones while reducing the memory overhead by up to 70%.
Text Beautifier: An Affective-Text Tool to Tailor Written Text

We have spelling and grammar checking tools available on today's word processors. But what they are missing is a tool that can recommend several possibilities of a given written sentence to assist a user to write better sentences. Therefore, we aim to develop a linguistic tool to beautify text by applying our developed lexical resources regarding textual affect sensing. The developed tool will allow a user to beautify an input sentence in terms of tuning it on different scales like valence, affect, prospect, and praise. For example using such a tool one may get the recommendations like, "Your lovely email makes me very glad", or "I become glad to read your email", or "I am very happy to obtain your nice email" for the input sentence "I am happy to receive your email" after scaling up the input sentence on affective, or prospective, or valence scale respectively. Such tool will be especially helpful to the non-native English speakers to write better English.
Integrating Visual and Textual Features for Web Image Clustering

With the explosive growth of Web and tremendous development of digital image processing technologies, the applications of Web image have attracted much attention, such as the Web image retrieval. Since the Web images are often with some related text tags, making use of both visual and textual features of Web image will help improving the accuracy of the Web image clustering. Researches show that Web image clustering methods, such as graph partitioning models and hyper graph partitioning models, didn't make use the relations between texts and image simultaneously. In this paper, we explore to take both visual and textual features into account for Web image clustering by building a graph model and develop a novel iterative clustering method. With K clusters initialized, we calculate the occurrence frequency of each visual/textual feature over the j-th cluster (j = 1, 2,⋯, K), which is used to measure the significance of the feature for the j-th cluster. Then the likelihood of each image, which belongs to the j-th cluster, can be determined accordingly. Furthermore, a mixture model is built for the predicted feature linked to each image and the EM algorithm is adopted to get K component parameters which describe posterior probabilities of all clusters for each image. Then two K-dimensional vectors consisting of component parameters will be used to describe the image and adjust the cluster index of it. Several experiments have been performed with MIR-Flickr25K and IAPR TC-12 Benchmark datasets and the performance of the proposed Web image clustering algorithm is superior to that of the compared algorithm.
Left ventricular remodeling, systolic function, and diastolic function in young adults with beta-thalassemia intermedia: a Doppler echocardiography study.

BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate the left ventricular (LV) remodeling and function in 24 asymptomatic young adults affected by beta-thalassemia intermedia (TI), in order to compare the obtained data with that of 80 patients affected by beta-thalassemia major (TM) and 65 healthy subjects. METHODS LV volumes and shapes, mass index, mass/volume ratio, systolic and diastolic function, stroke volume, and cardiac index were determined by two-dimensional and M-mode echocardiography. RESULTS In the TM and TI groups, LV volumes, diastolic and systolic shapes were significantly different from the control subjects, but the ejection fraction was slightly reduced only in the TM group. The TI group had larger LV volumes than did the TM group (mean [+/- SD] end-diastolic volume index, 99.4 +/- 21.9 vs 82.7 +/- 21.5 mL/m(2), respectively [p < 0.005]; mean end-systolic volume index, 42.8 +/- 12.2 vs 36.1 +/- 12.9 mL/m(2), respectively [p < 0.05]). Both groups showed an increase of the LV mass index, but the mass/volume ratio did not differ from the control subjects. The systolic volume index and the cardiac index were increased in both groups, but the increase was more pronounced in the TI group. Fractional shortening (FS) and the mean velocity of circumferential shortening (mVCFc) were decreased in the TM group (FS, 33.6 +/- 5.5% vs 36.9 +/- 4.1, respectively [p < 0.001]; mVCFc, 1.06 +/- 0.18 vs 1.17 +/- 0.12 circumference per second, respectively [p < 0.0001]). The LV contractile state was depressed only in the TM group, and the preload index was normal in both. LV filling showed an increase in the total flow velocity integral due to increases in the peak E wave (E) and peak A wave (A) velocities and integrals, with an increase of the E/A ratio in the TM group and a slight decrease in the TI group. The isovolumic relaxation time was prolonged in both groups. There was no major derangement in the pulmonary venous flow. CONCLUSIONS Asymptomatic young adults with TI show significant increases in LV volumes, LV mass, and cardiac index that are more pronounced than those in TM patients. LV systolic function is preserved in the TI group but is slightly depressed in the TM group due to the increase of afterload and to reduced contractility. The hemodynamic and hematologic factors involved in the etiopathogenesis of these findings are discussed, such as the treatment strategy.
A Numerical Model of Temporomandibular Joint Loading

A numerical model of the mandible, its articulating surfaces, and the forces exerted by the primary masticatory muscles has been developed for the purpose of investigating loading of the temporomandibular joint. Evidence is presented which shows that the temporomandibular joint is a load-bearing joint over the normal functional range of bite-force positions and angles. In this investigation, temporomandibular joint loads were found to vary from a maximum appositional force of 60% of the bite force (when bite forces were applied to the incisors) to a distracting force of about 5% of the bite force (when applied to the distal surfaces of the third molars). TMJ loads tended to reach a minimum as a result of vertically directed bite forces positioned at the second molars. A range of conditions in which bite forces were directed parallel to or within approximately 20° of the mid-sagittal plane was found to be conducive to stability of the temporomandibular joint. This stability included symmetry in the direction and in the magnitude of condylar loads as well as the presence of small forces tending to appose the condyle and articular eminence. TMJ loads tended to reach a maximum in response to mediolaterally directed bite forces. This result is consistent with the fact that no muscle of mastication exhibits a spatial orientation in which the muscle fibers are predominantly mediolateral in direction.
Synovial fluid expression of autoantibodies specific for RAGE relates to less erosive course of rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVES The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is expressed by many cells in joints of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and interacts with a variety of pro-inflammatory ligands that are enriched in inflamed joint. The RAGE-ligand interaction leads to a sustained inflammatory response. Also, secreted form of the receptor, called soluble RAGE (sRAGE), the levels of which are decreased in RA patients, modulates inflammatory responses. We sought to determine whether RA patients display increased occurrence of autoantibodies against RAGE and whether such an autoantibody production is related to disease characteristics. METHODS Matching samples of blood and synovial fluid were collected from 50 patients with RA with acute joint effusion. Blood from 43 healthy individuals and synovial fluid samples from 32 patients with non-inflammatory joint diseases were used for comparison. Anti-RAGE antibody levels were analysed using an ELISA. RESULTS RA patients displayed significantly higher blood and synovial fluid levels of anti-RAGE antibodies, both of IgG as well as of IgM class as compared with healthy controls and with patients with non-inflammatory joint diseases. Patients with seropositive RA had significantly less IgG antibodies in their synovial fluid as compared to seronegative patients. Furthermore, the presence of IgG class of anti-RAGE antibodies locally in the joint was found to be related to less aggressive, i.e. non-erosive disease. CONCLUSION These results suggest that RAGE-specific B cell response protect patients with RA from destructive course of the disease.