Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Dynamic contrast-enhanced CT and MRI for pulmonary nodule assessment.

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this article is to review advanced imaging of pulmonary nodules, including pathologic and pharmacokinetic background, conventional contrast-enhanced CT and MRI assessment, dynamic contrast-enhanced CT and MRI techniques, and dual-source and area-detector CT systems for pulmonary nodule evaluation. CONCLUSION Clinicians need to understand the underlying principles and pathologic and pharmacokinetic backgrounds of contrast-enhanced CT and MRI to further improve diagnostic performance. With adjustments in image acquisition and postprocessing, contrast-enhanced CT and MRI, especially the dynamic versions, can have enhanced clinical application for pulmonary nodules and expanded clinical relevance for other thoracic diseases.
Binary Black Holes Algorithm

In this paper we adapt black holes optimization algorithms for binary search spaces by applying a sigmoid transformation to the gravity and electrical forces. Black holes algorithm is a Swarm Algorithm inspired of Black Holes for Optimization Problems. We supposes each solution of problem as a binary black hole and after calculating the gravity and electrical forces use a mapping function for set it. The proposed method is verified using several benchmark problems used in the area of optimization. The experimental results on different benchmarks show that the performance of the proposed algorithm is better than BPSO (Binary Particle Swarms Optimization), BAFS (Binary Artificial Fish Swarm Algorithm) and GA (Genetic Algorithm). General Terms Artificial intelligence, Swarm algorithms, Black holes algorithm.
Bayesian pharmacovigilance signal detection methods revisited in a multiple comparison setting

Pharmacovigilance spontaneous reporting systems are primarily devoted to early detection of the adverse reactions of marketed drugs. They maintain large spontaneous reporting databases (SRD) for which several automatic signalling methods have been developed. A common limitation of these methods lies in the fact that they do not provide an auto‐evaluation of the generated signals so that thresholds of alerts are arbitrarily chosen. In this paper, we propose to revisit the Gamma Poisson Shrinkage (GPS) model and the Bayesian Confidence Propagation Neural Network (BCPNN) model in the Bayesian general decision framework. This results in a new signal ranking procedure based on the posterior probability of null hypothesis of interest and makes it possible to derive with a non‐mixture modelling approach Bayesian estimators of the false discovery rate (FDR), false negative rate, sensitivity and specificity. An original data generation process that can be suited to the features of the SRD under scrutiny is proposed and applied to the French SRD to perform a large simulation study. Results indicate better performances according to the FDR for the proposed ranking procedure in comparison with the current ones for the GPS model. They also reveal identical performances according to the four operating characteristics for the proposed ranking procedure with the BCPNN and GPS models but better estimates when using the GPS model. Finally, the proposed procedure is applied to the French data. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reallocation strategies for user processing tasks in future cloud-RAN architectures

In this paper we evaluate strategies to reduce the required processing capacity in a Cloud-Radio Access Network (C-RAN) architecture by improving the placement of user processing tasks. Our approach of assigning compute tasks in a pool of compute resources is based on fine granular tasks, where one compute task per served user is introduced. We compare different strategies in order to balance the load in the pool and save processing resources. Therefore we evaluate the best possible reallocation method by formulating an optimization problem including extensions to reduce the number of reassignments. We also introduce an algorithm for dynamic reallocations that can be implemented in real systems. From the evaluation results we can conclude that all strategies reduce the total overload by enhanced load balancing. Further all strategies improve the perceived Quality of Experience (QoE) of individual users.
World Reference Base (WRB) for Soil Resources

In 1998, the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) officially adopted the World Reference Base for Soil Resources (WRB) as the Union's system for soil correlation. The structure, concepts and definitions of the WRB are strongly influenced by (the philosophy behind and experience gained with) the FAO-Unesco Soil Classification System. At the time of its inception, the WRB proposed 30 `Soil Reference Groups' accommodating more than 200 (`second level') Soil Units.
Statistical-mechanical foundation of the ubiquity of Lévy distributions in Nature.

Constantino Tsallis, ' Silvio V. F. Levy, Andre M. C. Souza, " and Roger Maynard 'Department of Chemistry, Baker Laboratory, and Materials Science Center, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853-1301 Centro Brasileiro de Pesquisas FIsicas, Rua Xavier Sigaud 150, Codigo de Enderecamento Postal 22290-180, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil Geometry Center, University of Minnesota, 1300 South Second Street, Suite 500, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55454
Modelling the Spatial Spread of Wolbachia Bacteria in Mosquitoes

Modelling the Spatial Spread of Wolbachia Bacteria in Mosquitoes Minsu Kim Erasmus Mundus Masters in Complex Systems University of Warwick Wolbachia is a maternally inherited, intracellular bacteria that causes a number of abnormalities in their host’s reproductive system. Recent studies show that infecting mosquito populations with Wolbachia is a promising new strategy for controlling diseases such as dengue fever and yellow fever. Wolbachia infection can spread rapidly through mosquito populations following its introduction, and infected mosquitos have been shown to have a much reduced capacity to transmit disease. The success of this strategy depends on how easily and rapidly the Wolbachia spreads. This report is focused on the dynamics of Wolbachia infection in spatially heterogenous environments. We extend the single-patch model of mosquito population to the two-patch model as the simplest spatially heterogenous system. The twopatch model describes the interaction between mosquito population dynamics and Wolbachia infection frequency for an age-structured insect population regulated by larval density dependence. We show that spatial subdivision and migration between patches can affect to the dynamics of mosquitoes and spreads of Wolbachia. The results help to design a properWolbachia-releasing strategy to the heterogenous distribution of mosquito habitats.
Intra-articular block compared with conscious sedation for closed reduction of ankle fracture-dislocations. A prospective randomized trial.

Methods: Forty-two patients with ankle fracture-dislocations were enrolled in a prospective randomized study to evaluate the effectiveness and pain experienced with fracture reduction and posterior splint placement. Conscious sedation included a combination of benzodiazepines and narcotics (propofol, midazolam, morphine, or fentanyl), and the ankle block consisted of 12 mL of 1% lidocaine without epinephrine injected with sterile technique into the ankle joint in a hematoma block fashion. Twenty-one patients received conscious sedation and twenty-one patients underwent intra-articular lidocaine block. After reduction, patients were asked to rate their pain using a visual analog pain scale prior, during and after reduction.
Joint Node Localization and Time-Varying Clock Synchronization in Wireless Sensor Networks

The problems of node localization and clock synchronization in wireless sensor networks are naturally tied from a statistical signal processing perspective. In this work, we consider the joint estimation of an unknown node's location and clock parameters by incorporating the effect of imperfections in node oscillators, which render a time varying nature to the clock parameters. The data exchange mechanism is based on a two-way message exchange with anchor nodes. In order to alleviate the computational complexity associated with the optimal maximum a-posteriori estimator, two iterative approaches are proposed as simpler alternatives. The first approach utilizes an Expectation-Maximization (EM) based algorithm which iteratively estimates the clock parameters and the location of the unknown node. The EM algorithm is further simplified by a non-linear processing of the data to obtain a closed form solution of the location estimation problem using least squares (LS). The performance of the estimation algorithms is benchmarked by deriving the Hybrid Cramer-Rao lower bound (HCRB) on the mean square error (MSE) of the estimators. The theoretical findings are corroborated by simulation studies which reveal that the LS estimator closely matches the performance of the EM algorithm for small time of arrival measurement noise, and is well suited for implementation in low cost sensor networks.
Stability and change in social negativity in later life: reducing received while maintaining initiated negativity.

OBJECTIVE This article examines stability and change in social negativity and the links between social negativity and instrumental support over time among disabled older adults. The analyses focused on family relationships because social negativity tends to be more prevalent in family compared with nonkin relationships. Social negativity received and initiated are each addressed separately to determine whether or not they show similar patterns and links to instrumental support over time. METHODS Latent growth curve methodology was used to examine change over time in social negativity and instrumental family support in relation to age, gender, and family network size at baseline. Participants, 570 older adults with chronic visual impairment, were interviewed three times over an 18-month period. RESULTS Social negativity received showed a decrease over time, whereas levels of social negativity initiated remained more stable. Links with instrumental support were positive but stronger for received compared with initiated social negativity. DISCUSSION The differential pattern of stability and change over time in received versus initiated social negativity and their links to instrumental support suggest different origins for the initiation versus receipt of social negativity.
TSAT network architecture

The Transformational Satellite Communications System (TSAT) is poised to become the DoD's next generation protected and processed satellite system. This paper describes the network architecture of the TSAT system. The presence of a high capacity IP router on the satellite pay- load is a key distinguishing feature of the TSAT system. The TSAT pay load also provides RF and optical circuit switching capabilities. We describe the physical elements which comprise the TSAT network, and their interconnecting TSAT mechanisms that support fixed and mobile terminals, and the approach TSAT uses to support time- varying link conditions. We discuss key network protocols, communications standards and technologies employed within the TSAT system, with particular focus on routing, quality of service, network services, and network security. This paper also presents the TSAT approach towards supporting circuit services, as well as providing security at physical and link layer.
Google Earth® Models with COLLADA and WxAzygy® Transparent Interface: An example from Grotto Creek, Front Ranges, Canadian Cordillera

Virtual globes represent a paradigm shift for geoscience education. It is now possible to explore real world experiences across the entire Earth, the Moon, and Mars, and also to combine multiple 2-D images into one 3-D image with topography. Models viewed in Google Earth® are more intuitive for visualizing 3-D geological structures than traditional paper maps and cross-sections. Here a student-constructed geological map and cross-sections from an introductory field school are used to illustrate the creation of a draped geological map over topography. A custom vertical slider elevates the cross-sections above topography and a horizontal slider restores thrust faulting. Models located in situ in topography are made queryable via a ‘cut-away’ using the WxAzygy® transparent interface. SOMMAIRE La notion de « globes virtuels » constitue un changement de paradigme dans le domaine de l’education en geoscience. Il est maintenant possible de traiter de la realite de tous les recoins de la Terre, de la lune et de Mars, et aussi de combiner de multiples images 2-D en une image 3-D affichant la topographie. Les modeles de Google Earth® permettent une visualisation 3-D plus intuitive des structures geologiques que ne le permettent les cartes papiers usuelles et les coupes. Dans la presente, une carte geologique et une coupe realisees par un etudiant d’un cours d’introduction au travail de terrain sont utilisees pour illustrer la confection d’une carte geologique appliquee sur la topographie correspondante. Un curseur vertical personnalise dessine les coupes au-dessus de la topographie, et un curseur horizontal permet de restaurer les failles de chevauchement. Ces modeles ancres au droit de la topographie peuvent etre exploiter au moyen d’un ecorche produit par l’interface transparent WxAzygy®.
Inhomogeneous polynomial optimization over a convex set: An approximation approach

In this paper, we consider computational methods for optimizing a multivariate inhomogeneous polynomial function over a general convex set. The focus is on the design and analysis of polynomial-time approximation algorithms. The methods are able to deal with optimization models with polynomial objective functions in any fixed degrees. In particular, we first study the problem of maximizing an inhomogeneous polynomial over the Euclidean ball. A polynomial-time approximation algorithm is proposed for this problem with an assured (relative) worst-case performance ratio, which is dependent only on the dimensions of the model. The method and approximation ratio are then generalized to optimize an inhomogeneous polynomial over the intersection of a finite number of co-centered ellipsoids. Furthermore, the constraint set is extended to a general convex compact set. Specifically, we propose a polynomial-time approximation algorithm with a (relative) worst-case performance ratio for polynomial optimization over some convex compact sets, e.g. a polytope. Finally, numerical results are reported, revealing good practical performance of the proposed algorithms for solving some randomly generated instances.
Toward maturity model for extreme programming

Extreme programming (XP) is a lightweight software development methodology. It attracts attention of many software development teams and its popularity is growing very fast. A part of success comes from interesting composition of programming practices included in XP. But what particularly appeals to programmers and makes XP especially interesting to them is resignation of inspection meetings, thick documentation etc. Many people do not understand XP and they find XP a good excuse for not using approved programming practices. Thus, a maturity model for XP is needed that would indicate the risk associated with a project and in some cases make it clear that a project is following neither CMMI(SM) nor XP practices. In the paper, we propose a simple 4-level maturity model for XP.
A Method of Ontology-aided Expertise Matching for Facilitating Knowledge Exchange

The paper proposes a new method for facilitating k owledge exchange by seeking relevant university experts for commenti ng actual information events arising in the open environment of a modern economi cal cluster. This method is based on a new mathematical model of ontology conce pts matching. We propose to use in the formal core of our method a new modif ication of Latent Dirichlet allocation. The method and the mathematical model o f ontology matching were validated in the form of a software-based solution: the newly designed decision support system titled EXPERTIZE. The system regularl y monitors different text sources in the Internet, performs document analysis and provides university employees with critical information about relevant events according a developed matching algorithm. In the proposed solution we mad e several contributions to the advances of knowledge processing, including: ne w modifications of topic modeling method suitable for application in expert finding tasks, integration of new algorithms and existing ontology services to sh w feasibility of the solution.
Source mechanisms of vulcanian eruptions at Mt. Asama, Japan, inferred from volcano seismic signals

Abstract During the 2004 Asama volcanic activity, five summit eruptions, accompanied by the broadband seismic signals, were observed. We re-analyse the broadband waveform data analysed by Ohminato et al. (2006) using relaxed restrictions. The results are essentially the same as those shown in the previous study. The results of the waveform inversions that assume a point source show that the force system is dominated by vertical single-force components. The source depths with dominant single-force components are 200–300 m beneath the summit crater. In the source-time history of the vertical single-force component, two downward forces separated by an upward force lasting for 5–6 s are clearly seen. We conduct a grid search for the best combination of two point sources, each consisting of a single-force component. The best waveform-match solution was obtained when one of them is positioned near the top of the conduit, and the other source is positioned 2000 m below the upper source. When a combination of single-force and moment-tensor components is assumed for the two-point source model, the moment source is located out of the vertical hypocentre distribution, suggesting a steeply inclined conduit.
A Systematic Review of Outcomes in Patients With Staged Carotid Artery Stenting and Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery

Background and Purpose— Although current guidelines state that carotid endarterectomy is probably recommended before or concomitant to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with carotid stenosis, significant controversies to this recommendation still persist. Carotid artery stenting has been recently introduced as an alternative revascularization modality in high-risk patients. The aim of this study was to define, based on the published information, if carotid artery stenting is beneficial in this setting. Methods— A search of MEDLINE and a manual search of the literature from selected articles were performed. A total of 6 studies with 277 patients reporting carotid stenting followed by staged CABG were available for this clinical outcome analysis. All were retrospective and single-center studies. Results— The mean age was 69 years; 78% were males. Asymptomatic carotid stenosis was present in 76% of patients. The mean time to CABG was 32 days. The incidence of stroke and death associated with the stent procedure was 4.7%. Only 6 patients (2.2%) developed stroke associated with CABG. The overall combined 30-day event rate after CABG, including all events during carotid artery stenting, were as follows: minor stroke, 2.9%; major stroke, 3.2%; mortality, 7.6%; and combined death and any stroke, 12.3%. Conclusions— In this pooled analysis, the combined incidence of death and stroke in patients undergoing carotid artery stenting and staged CABG remains elevated. These results confirm that the presence of carotid stenosis is per se a marker of risk that might persists independent of its treatment. A systematic or randomized evaluation appears warranted.
The Partner Units Problem a Constraint Programming Case Study

The Partner Units Problem is a challenging combinatorial search problem that originates in the domain of security and surveillance. Technically it consists of partitioning a bipartite graph under side conditions. In this work we describe how constraint programming technology can be leveraged to tackle the problem. We address problem modelling, symmetry breaking and problem-specific search strategies. We introduce the best search strategy known to date as well as a powerful new implied constraint for pruning the search space. Finally, we present implementations in ECLiPSe Prolog and the MINION constraint solver and compare these to a state-of-the-art dedicated algorithm.
Normal-incidence reflection of slow atoms from an optical evanescent wave.

We demonstrate specular reflection for laser-cooled atoms dropped onto a gradient-light-force mirror. Transit times of 264 msec are observed for atoms dropped from a height of ~2.0 cm and bouncing twice on the evanescent wave before being detected. Of the ~107 atoms initially dropped, ~3 × 103 are detected after 264 msec.
Experimental analysis on classification of unmanned aerial vehicle images using the probabilistic latent semantic analysis

In this paper, we present a novel algorithm to classify UAV images through the image annotation which is a semi-supervised method. During the annotation process, we first divide whole image into different sizes of blocks and generate suitable visual words which are the K-means clustering centers or just pixels in small size image block. Then, given a set of image blocks for each semantic concept as training data, learning is based on the Probabilistic Latent Semantic Analysis (PLSA). The probability distributions of visual words in every document can be learned through the PLSA model. The labeling of every document (image block) is done by computing the similarity of its feature distribution to the distribution of the training documents with the Kullback-Leibler (K-L) divergence. Finally, the classification of the UAV images will be done by combining all the image blocks in every block size. The UAV images using in our experiments was acquired during Sichuan earthquake in 2008. The results show that smaller size block image will get better classification results.
Nutrient-wide association study of 57 foods/nutrients and epithelial ovarian cancer in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study and the Netherlands Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND Studies of the role of dietary factors in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) development have been limited, and no specific dietary factors have been consistently associated with EOC risk. OBJECTIVE We used a nutrient-wide association study approach to systematically test the association between dietary factors and invasive EOC risk while accounting for multiple hypothesis testing by using the false discovery rate and evaluated the findings in an independent cohort. DESIGN We assessed dietary intake amounts of 28 foods/food groups and 29 nutrients estimated by using dietary questionnaires in the EPIC (European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition) study (n = 1095 cases). We selected 4 foods/nutrients that were statistically significantly associated with EOC risk when comparing the extreme quartiles of intake in the EPIC study (false discovery rate = 0.43) and evaluated these factors in the NLCS (Netherlands Cohort Study; n = 383 cases). Cox regression models were used to estimate HRs and 95% CIs. RESULTS None of the 4 dietary factors that were associated with EOC risk in the EPIC study (cholesterol, polyunsaturated and saturated fat, and bananas) were statistically significantly associated with EOC risk in the NLCS; however, in meta-analysis of the EPIC study and the NLCS, we observed a higher risk of EOC with a high than with a low intake of saturated fat (quartile 4 compared with quartile 1; overall HR: 1.21; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.41). CONCLUSION In the meta-analysis of both studies, there was a higher risk of EOC with a high than with a low intake of saturated fat.