Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
0-dB insertion loss miniaturized third-order 2.54GHz CMOS active bandpass filter

This paper presents a miniaturized 2.54GHz active bandpass filter (ABPF) which is implemented with the new complementary-conducting-strip transmission line (CCS-TL). The proposed CCS-TL contains multiple synthetic transmission lines in a unit cell. Additionally, the negative resistance network, which is realized by the differential cross couple pair, is applied to compensate the ohmic loss of the proposed CCS-TL. The prototype is implemented with the standard 0.18um CMOS 1P6M process. The on-wafer measurements are conducted to demonstrate the proposed CMOS ABPF with the following characteristics. The third-order ABPF occupies the area of 0.51% λ0 by 0.71% λ0 at the center frequency, 2.54GHz with 13 % bandwidth. As the 11mA current from +1.8 V power supply is fed in the filter, at 2.54 GHz, the insertion is 0 dB with 0.843-dB in-band ripple and the return loss is 17.212 dB with three apparent reflection zeros.
Tracking Solutions for Mobile Robots: Evaluating Positional Tracking using Dual-axis Rotating Laser Sweeps

This paper provides a comprehensive introduction into state of the art marker-based tracking methods. Therefore, optical, magnetic, acoustic and inertial tracking are described and evaluated. All presented approaches are compared regarding accuracy, resolution, tracking volume, measurement rate and outdoor and indoor suitability. Additionally, typical technical limitations are mentioned for each system according to their functional principle. As a technology with increasing potential for mobile robotics, we evaluate the achievable accuracy for pose tracking using dual-axis rotating laser sweeps as used in modern tracking systems for virtual reality applications.
Pinch simulation with haptic feedback for stroke rehabilitation: A pilot study

Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability, and virtual reality (VR)-based stroke rehabilitation has been shown to be effective for increasing the motivation and functional performance of stroke patients. Although many patients regain most reach and grasp capabilities in their upper extremity function, recovery of the pinch skill remains incomplete for the majority of patients. In this study, an innovative VR-based pinch skill training and strengthening system using haptics simulation was developed for the long-term recovery of upper extremity motor function post stroke. Two subject tests were conducted. The first was a healthy subject test conducted with 30 participants to verify the system design and functionality, specifically emphasizing difficulty levels and behavior phases. The second was a pilot test conducted on two stroke patients to examine the feasibility and therapeutic effects of the proposed system. Upon completion of the pilot test, the results of clinical assessment showed that both participants were improved. Using synchronized kinematic and kinetic data, the participants' behavior time-history was reconstructed for behavior interpretation and motor activity analysis. Finally, user acceptance of the technology was high, indicating that the participants intended to continue using the proposed system for rehabilitation.
Towards a Use Case Driven Evaluation of Database Systems for RDF Data Storage - A Case Study for Statistical Data

To store Linked Data one may choose from a growing number of available database systems: from traditional relational databases to RDF triple stores, not to mention the area of NoSQL technologies. Comparisons of database systems often use benchmarks to evaluate systems with the best overall runtime performance. However, the structure of data and queries used in traditional benchmarks differ from real-world environments. They are typically not aligned with use cases from realworld applications. In this paper we investigate a use case driven approach where queries are grouped by means of more general application use cases. We evaluate and compare eight heterogeneous database systems (four relational, two graph, two column-oriented) with real-world application data and measure query runtime performance according to these use cases. The evaluation results show that the choice for a database system should not only be based on the overall query runtimes, as a naive evaluation would suggest, but preferably according to the use cases of the application itself.
Possibilistic Morphological Disambiguation of Structured Hadiths Arabic Texts using Semantic Knowledge

We propose, in this paper, a possibilistic morphological approach to disambiguate hadiths Arabic texts using semantic knowledge. The disambiguation is considered as a classification problem. The possibilistic approach uses vocalized texts to train a possibilistic classifier in order to classify non-vocalized texts as they are more ambiguous. Morphological attributes are used for training and test. Hadiths are structured in XML format that provides semantic information. We enlarge the classification attributes’ set by adding semantic attributes extracted from the hadiths structure. We prove that the possibilistic approach gives the best rates using AlKhalil analyzer to prepare the training and the test sets. Our proposed possibilistic approach enhances disambiguation rates of Arabic hadiths’ texts when it includes semantic knowledge.
[Analysis of gait and movement of upper limbs in muscular dystrophies].

INTRODUCTION The objective is to analyze gait and upper extremity movement in a sample of healthy individuals and patients with different muscular dystrophies and to determine the relationship of the obtained variables with the pattern of muscular involvement. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Gait and upper limb movement was analyzed with a three-dimensional photogrammetry system. Convenience sample of 28 healthy volunteers, 40 patients with myotonic dystrophy (MD), 9 patients with facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (FSHD) and 14 patients with limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type 2A (LGMD2A). Spatio-temporal and kinematic variables were analyzed. RESULTS Patients had lower velocity, cadence and shorter stride duration than healthy subjects. Gait and upper extremity kinematic variables suggested proximal muscular involvement in LGMD2A patients and distal muscular abnormalities in MD patients. The most characteristic finding in FSHD patients was related with dorsiflexor muscles' weakness. Some of the variables were also correlated to the patients' functional stage. CONCLUSIONS This analysis allows the distinction of kinematic and spatio-temporal patterns of gait and upper extremity movement that correlate with muscular dystrophy's phenotype. The use of this analysis in the clinical setting to assess disease progression or the potential effects of treatments requires further studies.
Apical Myocardial Stunning in a Large Size Porcine Model Assessed by Strain and Strain Rate Echocardiography

Background: Warm ischemia and subsequent reperfusion of the heart can induce a temporary dysfunction known as myocardial stunning. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) to quantify longitudinal myocardial stunning close to the apex, and perform a comparison with sonomicrometry using a well‐established large size porcine model. Methods: In anesthetized pigs, postischemic myocardial stunning was induced by occluding LAD for 15 min followed by 90 min reperfusion (n = 7). Long‐axis strain and strain rate was quantified by both TDI and sonomicrometry. Results: During reperfusion, peak systolic strain measured by TDI decreased from −11.2% (±3.0) at baseline to −4.9% (±3.6), −3.4% (±2.9), and −4.3% (±5.0) at 30, 60, and 90 min, respectively (all P < 0.007). Postsystolic strain increased from −1.3% (±1.6) at baseline to −6.4% (±4.4), −4.8% (±4.0), and −5.2% (±2.7) by TDI in the reperfusion phase (all P < 0.048 except at 60 min of reperfusion (P = 0.081)). Postsystolic index increased from 0.10 (±0.13) at baseline to 0.56 (±0.24), 0.54 (±0.30), and 0.64 (±0.37) subsequently (all P < 0.012). [Correction added after online publication 30‐May‐2007: In the preceding sentence, the phrase ‘Postsystolic index decreased from 0.10 (±0.13)’ was changed to ‘Postsystolic index increased from 0.10 (±0.13). ’] Difference‐mean and line of identity plots did not disclose any systematic error, but revealed substantial variation, indicating a mismatch between TDI and sonomicrometry. Conclusions: It is feasible to quantify postischemic myocardial stunning by TDI in a large size porcine model using longitudinal postsystolic shortening, and postsystolic index as indicators. TDI and sonomicrometry data reach the same end point, but the two techniques are not interchangeable when investigating myocardial stunning close to apex in reference to longitudinal strain and strain rate.
Identification of the Minimal Tyrosine Residues Required for Linker for Activation of T Cell Function*

The linker for activation of T cells (LAT) is essential for signaling through the T cell receptor (TCR). Following TCR stimulation, LAT becomes tyrosine-phosphorylated, creating docking sites for other signaling proteins such as phospholipase C-γ1 (PLC-γ1), Grb2, and Gads. In this study, we have attempted to identify the critical tyrosine residues in LAT that mediate TCR activation-induced mobilization of intracellular Ca2+ and activation of the MAP kinase Erk2. By using the LAT-deficient Jurkat derivative, J.CaM2, stable cell lines were established expressing various tyrosine mutants of LAT. We show that three specific tyrosine residues (Tyr132, Tyr171, and Tyr191) are necessary and sufficient to achieve a Ca2+ flux following TCR stimulation. These tyrosine residues function by reconstituting PLC-γ1phosphorylation and recruitment to LAT. However, these same tyrosines can only partially reconstitute Erk activation. Full reconstitution of Erk requires two additional tyrosine residues (Tyr110 and Tyr226), both of which have the Grb2-binding motif YXN. This reconstitution of Erk activation requires that the critical tyrosine residues be on the same molecule of LAT, suggesting that a single LAT molecule nucleates multiple protein-protein interactions required for optimal signal transduction.
Therapeutic hypothermia for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

PURPOSE The use of therapeutic hypothermia (TH) and its application in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients are reviewed. SUMMARY Each year in the United States, an estimated 250,000-300,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur. Despite advances in prehospital care, the survival rate from TH is only 6-12%. In addition, survivors often have devastating consequences ranging from mild memory impairment to permanent brain damage. It is presumed that early induction of hypothermia produces an optimal effect, though benefits can still be achieved with late induction. Several methods have been devised to induce hypothermia, yet the optimal methods of cooling have not currently been determined. Major adverse effects of cooling include hemodynamic changes, cardiovascular complications, hyperglycemia, coagulopathy, increased rates of infection, fluid and electrolyte disorders, and shivering. The majority of these adverse effects can be prevented or minimized in the intensive care setting. In 2002, the use of TH--cooling the core body temperature to 32-34 degrees C--was supported by two landmark human studies, whose results led to the endorsement of TH by the American Heart Association and its increased use. The studies demonstrated that hypothermia results in favorable neurologic outcomes in patients suffering from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest due to ventricular fibrillation (VF), without increasing complications. CONCLUSION TH is an effective strategy for improving neurologic outcomes of patients after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest due to VF. Further studies are needed to confirm the optimal time and methods for cooling to maximize the chance of complete neurologic recovery after cardiac arrest.
Cyclooxygenase metabolites mediate glomerular monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 formation and monocyte recruitment in experimental glomerulonephritis.

BACKGROUND Monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) has been shown to play a significant role in the recruitment of monocytes/macrophages in experimental glomerulonephritis. Whereas a number of inflammatory mediators have been characterized that are involved in the expression of MCP-1 in renal disease, little is known about repressors of chemokine formation in vivo. We hypothesized that cyclooxygenase (COX) products influence the formation of MCP-1 and affect inflammatory cell recruitment in glomerulonephritis. METHODS The effect of COX inhibitors was evaluated in the antithymocyte antibody model and an anti-glomerular basement membrane model of glomerulonephritis. Rats were treated with the COX-1/COX-2 inhibitor indomethacin and the selective COX-2 inhibitors meloxicam and SC 58125. Animals were studied at 1 hour, 24 hours, and 5 days after induction of the disease. RESULTS Indomethacin, to a lesser degree the selective COX-2 inhibitors, enhanced glomerular MCP-1 and RANTES mRNA levels. Indomethacin enhanced glomerular monocyte chemoattractant activity an the infiltration of monocytes/macrophages at 24 hours and 5 days. CONCLUSIONS Our studies demonstrate that COX products may serve as endogenous repressors of MCP-1 formation in experimental glomerulonephritis. The data suggest that COX-1 and COX-2 products mediate these effects differently because the selective COX-2 inhibitors had less influence on chemokine expression.
Single conversion audio amplifier and DC-AC converters with high performance and low complexity control scheme

This paper proposes a novel control topology for a mains isolated single conversion audio amplifier and DC-AC converters. The topology is made for use in audio applications, and differs from prior art in terms of significantly reduced distortion as well as lower system complexity. The topology can be useful in a wide range of DC-AC applications such as motor drives or UPS systems requiring mains isolation as well.
Further evidence for association of GRK3 to bipolar disorder suggests a second disease mutation

Objectives Two genome-wide linkage surveys suggest chromosome 22q12 may contain a susceptibility locus for bipolar disorder (BPD) in the immediate region of the gene G protein receptor kinase-3 (GRK3). We previously published evidence that a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the promoter region of GRK3, designated P5, was associated with BPD. This SNP, however, was too rare (allele frequency 0.007) to explain the evidence for linkage. Methods To identify other SNPs or haplotypes associated with illness, we have now sequenced an additional 28-kb genomic segment of GRK3 and tested an additional 35 SNPs for association with BPD in 181 Caucasian nuclear families. Results Transmission disequilibrium test analyses identified two closely related disease-associated haplotypes defined by four SNPs located upstream of the promoter region: transmission to nontransmission ratios=54 : 22 and 20 : 9, odds ratios=2.50 and 2.36, and P values=0.0009 and 0.05. The best P value remained significant after correction for multiple testing. These two haplotypes were found on an entirely different set of chromosomes from the previously identified SNP P5. They had a combined frequency of ∼0.10 and, therefore, a much greater population attributable risk for disease than the previously identified P5 haplotype. Conclusions These data provide evidence that at least two distinct haplotypes, and possibly two or more different underlying mutations, in GRK3 might be associated with BPD. These new findings add support for the hypothesis that a dysregulation in GRK3 expression alters signaling desensitization and thereby predisposes to the development of BPD.
Antepartum Oral Disposition Index as a Predictor of Glucose Intolerance Postpartum

Although women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) have an increased subsequent risk for diabetes, the diabetic risk might be heterogeneous because the degree of abnormal glucose metabolism varies. The glucose tolerance status in pregnancy is related with postpartum prediabetes or diabetes, whereas studies on the antepartum factors associated with dysglycemia postpartum are limited (1,2). Women with GDM should be screened for diabetes postpartum; however, some miss the follow-up for the glucose surveillance. β-Cell function contributes to the development of glucose intolerance, and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)-derived measures for β-cell function (i.e., oral disposition index [DIo]) seem to be predictive of developing diabetes (3). Likewise, the DIo during pregnancy might have potential to predict glucose intolerance postpartum. Therefore, we investigated the relation …
Sensorless Control of a Grid-Connected PV Converter

The base of our new developed grid-connected PV converter is a low cost general purpose frequency converter. In spite of the lack of voltage sensors a very reliable anti-island protection is reached. In the first section a control structures of the grid-connected converter with UVOC (Utility Voltage Oriented Control) is given while in the second section a method for the sensorless identification of the grid voltage is suggested. The third section describes an ultimate method for anti-island protection with a negligible none-detection zone. Finally the experimental results of the developed low cost general purpose frequency converter are presented.
Numerical Simulation of Solar Energy/Air Compound Source Heat Pump Unit

In order to investigate the performance of a new type solar energy/air compound source heat pump unit, the numerical simulation and experimental test are presented and compared in this paper. Through the components model building for condenser and evaporator adopting the partitioned lumped parameter method, compressor and expansion valve to combine the whole system model and the creation of properties relation formula for R22, the simulation program for solar energy/air compound source heat pump unit employing R22 as working media is established based on C language. The system coefficient of performance (COP) from numerical simulation and experiment is analyzed and compared. And the error between them ranges from 0.2% to 6.6%, which indicates that established model is accurate and reliable and can be applied to similar system emulation research.
A Methodology for Investigating Public Opinion Using Multilevel Text Analysis

Recently, many users have begun to frequently share their opinions on diverse issues using various social media. Therefore, numerous governments have attempted to establish or improve national policies according to the public opinions captured from various social media. In this paper, we indicate several limitations of the traditional approaches to analyze public opinion on science and technology and provide an alternative methodology to overcome these limitations. First, we distinguish between the science and technology analysis phase and the social issue analysis phase to reflect the fact that public opinion can be formed only when a certain science and technology is applied to a specific social issue. Next, we successively apply a start list and a stop list to acquire clarified and interesting results. Finally, to identify the most appropriate documents that fit with a given subject, we develop a new logical filter concept that consists of not only mere keywords but also a logical relationship among the keywords. This study then analyzes the possibilities for the practical use of the proposed methodology thorough its application to discover core issues and public opinions from 1,700,886 documents comprising SNS, blogs, news, and discussions. Keywords—Big data, social network analysis, text mining, topic modeling.
Movement of embryonic chick sympathetic neurons on laminin in vitro is preceded by neurite extension

Chick sympathetic neurons (E‐9) are capable of moving on a laminin substrate but not on more adhesive substrates in vitro. The effect of laminin is dose‐dependent and reduced by the addition of anti‐laminin antibodies, whereas soluble laminin does not stimulate movement. The onset of neuronal movement is preceded by, and highly correlated with, the onset of neurite formation. The addition of 1,2 dioctanoyl‐snglycerol (DAG), a stimulator or protein kinase C that has been shown to inhibit neurite outgrowth, was found to delay both process formation and neuronal movement but did not affect the correlation between these two measures. These results support the conclusion that laminin stimulates primary neuronal movement in vitro and suggest that the mechanism underlying movement involves process formation followed by “towing” of the cell body by the advancing process. The similarities of this in vitro behavior to that observed in vivo suggest that similar mechanisms may underlie neuronal movement in the developing nervous system as suggested by Morest (Z Anat Entwicklungsgesch 130:265–305, 1970) and Liesi (EMBO J 4:1163–1170, 1985; Exp Neurol 117:103–113, 1992). © 1993 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The multistage 20 metre shuttle run test for aerobic fitness.

A maximal multistage 20 m shuttle run test was designed to determine the maximal aerobic power of schoolchildren, healthy adults attending fitness class and athletes performing in sports with frequent stops and starts (e.g. basketball, fencing and so on). Subjects run back and forth on a 20 m course and must touch the 20 m line; at the same time a sound signal is emitted from a prerecorded tape. Frequency of the sound signals is increased 0.5 km h-1 each minute from a starting speed of 8.5 km h-1. When the subject can no longer follow the pace, the last stage number announced is used to predict maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) (Y, ml kg-1 min-1) from the speed (X, km h-1) corresponding to that stage (speed = 8 + 0.5 stage no.) and age (A, year): Y = 31.025 + 3.238 X - 3.248A + 0.1536AX, r = 0.71 with 188 boys and girls aged 8-19 years. To obtain this regression, the test was performed individually. Right upon termination VO2 was measured with four 20 s samples and VO2max was estimated by retroextrapolating the O2 recovery curve at time zero of recovery. For adults, similar measurements indicated that the same equation could be used keeping age constant at 18 (r = 0.90, n = 77 men and women 18-50 years old). Test-retest reliability coefficients were 0.89 for children (139 boys and girls 6-16 years old) and 0.95 for adults (81 men and women, 20-45 years old). (ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Multimodal speaker verification using ancillary known speaker characteristics such as gender or age

Multimodal speaker verification based on easy-to-obtain biometric traits such as face and voice is rapidly gaining acceptance as the preferred technology for many applications. In many such practical applications, other characteristics of the speaker such as gender or age are known and may be exploited for enhanced verification accuracy. In this paper we present a parallel approach determining gender as an ancillary speaker characteristic, which is incorporated in the decision of a facevoice speaker verification system. Preliminary experiments with the DaFEx multimodal audio-video database show that fusing the results of gender recognition and identity verification improves the performance of multimodal speaker verification.