Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic value of procalcitonin and CRP in critically ill patients admitted with suspected sepsis

Background Identifying early markers of septic complications can aid in the diagnosis and therapeutic management of hospitalized patients. In this study, the utility of procalcitonin (PCT) vs. C-reactive protein (CRP) as early markers of sepsis was compared. Methods A series of 2,697 consecutive blood samples was collected from hospitalized patients and serum PCT and CRP levels were measured. Patients were categorized by PCT level as follows: < 0.05 ng/ml, 0.05-0.49 ng/ml, 0.5-1.99 ng/ml, 2-9.99 ng/ml, and > 10 ng/ml. Diagnostic utility was analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Results Mean CRP levels varied among the five PCT categories at 0.31 ± 2.87, 5.65 ± 6.26, 13.78 ± 8.01, 12.15 ± 10.16, and 17.77 ± 10.59, respectively (P < 0.05). PCT and CRP differed between positive and negative blood culture groups (PCT: 15.9 vs. 4.78 mg/dl; CRP: 11.5 ng/ml vs. 9.57 ng/ml; P < 0.05). The areas under the ROC curves (PCT, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.743, range: 0.698-0.789 at a threshold of 0.5 ng/ml; CRP, 95% CI: 0.540, range: 0.478-0.602 at a threshold of 8 mg/l) differed for PCT and CRP (P < 0.05). Conclusions Therefore, PCT is a reliable marker for sepsis diagnosis and is more relevant than CRP in patients with a positive blood culture. These findings can be useful for the treatment of critically ill sepsis patients.
Is an average of routine postdialysis blood pressure a good indicator of blood pressure control and cardiovascular risk?

INTRODUCTION Hypertension is associated with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), a predictor of cardiovascular mortality in haemodialysis (HD) patients. The National Kidney Foundation Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (NKF-KDOQI) blood pressure (BP) targets are pre-HD <140/90 mm Hg, post-HD <130/80 mm Hg. This study aims to assess 3-month mean in-unit BP, pre- and post-HD, for correlations with left ventricular mass index (LVMI), a measure of long-term BP control. METHODS Of 648 HD patients, including those on HD >6 months, 262 had echocardiograms. Those with significant coronary artery disease, reduced ejection fraction or valvular disease were excluded, as were those without appropriate echocardiogram, leaving 100 patients. Data on BP and confounding factors for LVH were collected covering 3 months prior to echocardiogram. RESULTS Mean BP pre-HD was 147/77 ± 19/13 mm Hg, and post-HD, 133/71 ± 20/11 mm Hg; <50% of patients achieved NKF targets. Mean LVMI was 203.7 ± 74 g/m(2); 88% of patients had LVH. On univariate analysis, mean pre- and post-HD systolic BP, mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and post-HD diastolic and pulse pressure correlated with LVMI. On stepwise multiple regression analysis only post-HD MAP correlated with LVMI (p=0.000047, r=0.395). CONCLUSIONS We conclude that long-term averages of in-unit post-HD BP measurements are useful in assessing BP control and cardiovascular risk, especially in the absence of routine ambulatory or home BP monitoring.
The Cancer Biomedical Informatics Grid (caBIGTM)

The Cancer Biomedical Informatics Grid (caBIGtrade) is a new project initiated by the National Cancer Institute to create a computational network connecting scientists and institutions to enable the sharing of data and the use of common analytical tools. The emergence of genomics and proteomics high-throughput technologies are creating a paradigm shift in biomedical research from small independent labs to large teams of researchers exploring entire genomes and proteomes and how they relate to disease. caBIGtrade is developing new software and modifying existing software within Clinical Trials Management Systems, Tissue Banks and Pathology Tools and Integrated Cancer Research tools to manage the huge volume of data being generated and to facilitate collaboration across the broad spectrum of cancer research
Signal Outages of CSMA/CA-Based Wireless Networks with Different AP Densities

In wireless networks, users may experience outages owing to low received signal strength. Divergent from other research, we investigate the outages for users of CSMA/CA-based wireless networks when multiple access points (APs) and multiple users are randomly positioned in a given area. We model the locations of the APs and users using independent homogeneous Poisson point processes (PPPs), and analyze the signal outage probabilities of users when there are different numbers of access points, as well as when different modulation and coding schemes (MCSs) are used for communication. We also investigate heterogeneous CSMA/CA-based wireless networks, wherein the APs use different transmit powers. Then, we evaluate the results and compare the signal outage rates of users with the signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) outage rates of users in both homogeneous and heterogeneous IEEE 802.11a wireless networks using extensive event-driven simulations. The simulation results validate our analysis on the signal outages of users in multi-cell, multi-user wireless networking environments, and show that a significant portion of outages are caused by the signal outages when AP densities are low and high MCS levels are used for communication.
Confronting the Illusion of Technological Expertise Among College and University Students

Over the past 20 years, the faculty and administration of colleges and universities have been debating how technology will change the face of higher education in delivering content to students. Associated with the discussion is research on the acceptability of various devices (e.g. desk-top computers, laptop computers, e-readers, tablets) as replacements for paper textbooks. In most studies, students report their preference for paper textbooks over digital materials for studying and learning. A recent Canadian study examined the preference for paper textbooks. In this study, we repeat key areas of that study with Israeli students and collect comparison data using an online survey. Students in both countries believe that paper textbooks better support their learning and studying processes and are more likely to lead to academic success. However, we note some differences in terms of the Israeli students being less distracted when online, and reporting greater comfort using digital content when searching for information. What has been overlooked in the change from paper to digital delivery of information is how students will make the transition from learning and studying on paper to digital only or simultaneous use of both paper and digital. This study provides ideas as to how educators can better support students and areas where additional research is needed.
Keratinocyte growth factor protects epidermis and hair follicles from cell death induced by UV irradiation, chemotherapeutic or cytotoxic agents

Owing to its potent cytoprotective properties for epithelial cells, keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) is successfully used for the treatment of chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-induced oral mucositis in cancer patients. It is therefore of major interest to determine possible clinical applications of KGF in other organs and in different stress situations and to unravel common and organ-specific mechanisms of KGF action. Here we show that KGF protects human keratinocytes from the toxicity of xenobiotics with electrophilic and oxidative properties and reduces the cell death induced by UV irradiation. In contrast to other cell types, cytoprotection of keratinocytes by KGF is not a direct anti-apoptotic effect but requires de novo protein synthesis. The in vitro findings are clinically relevant because KGF protected keratinocytes in organ-cultured human scalp hair follicles from the toxicity of the xenobiotic menadione. Moreover, injection of KGF into murine back skin markedly reduced cell death in the epidermis after UVB irradiation. This activity is dependent on FGF receptor signaling because it was abrogated in transgenic mice expressing a dominant-negative FGF receptor mutant in keratinocytes. Taken together, our results encourage the use of KGF for skin protection from chemical and physical insults.
A behavioural game-theoretic analysis of hedge fund regulation

ABSTRACT We analyse the efficacy of hedge fund regulation in a behavioural game-theoretic model consisting of two players: a hedge fund manager and a regulator. The regulator decides whether or not to regulate hedge fund strategies, and location of key service providers (KSPs). The manager then decides (a) which KSP to choose, (b) whether to choose a safe or risky strategy, and (c) how much effort to exert in affecting the strategy’s success probability. We consider the effect of expected future fund flows on the manager’s incentives. Furthermore, we consider economic and behavioural factors affecting the regulator’s decision-making. Finally, we discuss how our two cases (myopic versus far-sighted managerial behaviour) may inform the debate over regulation over the entire financial market-cycle. Overall, our analysis contributes to the debate on hedge fund regulation.
New Method of Object Tracking under Complex Circumstance

The original MeanShift algorithm uses color histogram as the target feature and does not take the objectives of spatial information into account. Therefore, there are some stability problems under the complex background. It leads to target losing easily. A new tracking algorithm named weighted mean of the centroids is proposed in the paper. In order to improve the robust of tracking process, the weighted mean of centroids corresponding to the color bins and the model update strategy is added. The problem of spatial information on color distribution is solved, and the situation of deviation from the real target caused by using single fixed target model is also avoided by using this algorithm. Furthermore, experimental results show that the improved tracking algorithm is better than the original meanshift algorithm.
The Sense of Insecurity (SOI) of Employees

Employees work for the needs of their life: physical and psychological needs. In doing their jobs in accordance with their status and positions, it is always necessary for them to demonstrate their ability to survive against the tide of changes in their workplace. They will face the challenges and demands, both positive and negative of the people around them. In the developed countries, generally, employees work individually. They focus on their job and target in the workplace. As consequently, they should hard work. However, such a harsh working environment sometimes makes some employees workaholics, thereby causing them to feel the sense of insecurity (SOI). This paper presents a chronological framework to encourage their awareness of SOI, which may help overcome psychological problems within their life. This will enable them to measure their capabilities and to manage risks in their jobs and daily activities. These are supported by creative and innovative thinking in their life.
Are They Really Different: The Entrepreneurial Process from the Perspective of First and Second Generation Immigrant Entrepreneurs

There is limited research on similarities and differences in entrepreneurial experiences of first and second generation immigrant entrepreneurs. Using in-depth interviews with Lebanese entrepreneurs in two Canadian cities, we analyze how entrepreneurs belonging to two different generations of immigrants experience and enact opportunity identification and assessment, and business development and operation. The analysis shows that first and second generation immigrant entrepreneurs diverge in their views of macro-institutional structures (such as regulation), risk, trust, and the role of divine providence in the entrepreneurial venture. The findings highlight the importance of understanding how first generation immigrant entrepreneurs’ past frames — developed in the pre-migration context — interact with the environment in the country of settlement in shaping entrepreneurial undertaking. The study also highlights second generation immigrant entrepreneurs’ perceived similarities to and differences from mainstream entrepreneurs. Implications for research and policy are addressed.
An Overview of Monthly Rhythms and Clocks

Organisms have evolved to cope with geophysical cycles of different period lengths. In this review, we focus on the adaptations of animals to the lunar cycle, specifically, on the occurrence of biological rhythms with monthly (circalunar) or semi-monthly (circasemilunar) period lengths. Systematic experimental investigation, starting in the early twentieth century, has allowed scientists to distinguish between mythological belief and scientific facts concerning the influence of the lunar cycle on animals. These studies revealed that marine animals of various taxa exhibit circalunar or circasemilunar reproductive rhythms. Some of these rely on endogenous oscillators (circalunar or circasemilunar clocks), whereas others are directly driven by external cues, such as the changes in nocturnal illuminance. We review current insight in the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in circalunar rhythms, focusing on recent work in corals, annelid worms, midges, and fishes. In several of these model systems, the transcript levels of some core circadian clock genes are affected by both light and endogenous circalunar oscillations. How these and other molecular changes relate to the changes in physiology or behavior over the lunar cycle remains to be determined. We further review the possible relevance of circalunar rhythms for terrestrial species, with a particular focus on mammalian reproduction. Studies on circalunar rhythms of conception or birth rates extend to humans, where the lunar cycle was suggested to also affect sleep and mental health. While these reports remain controversial, factors like the increase in “light pollution” by artificial light might contribute to discrepancies between studies. We finally discuss the existence of circalunar oscillations in mammalian physiology. We speculate that these oscillations could be the remnant of ancient circalunar oscillators that were secondarily uncoupled from a natural entrainment mechanism, but still maintained relevance for structuring the timing of reproduction or physiology. The analysis and comparison of circalunar rhythms and clocks are currently challenging due to the heterogeneity of samples concerning species diversity, environmental conditions, and chronobiological conditions. We suggest that future research will benefit from the development of standardized experimental paradigms, and common principles for recording and reporting environmental conditions, especially light spectra and intensities.
Application of the mixed sensitivity problem H∞ and H2 to the parallel Delta

This paper deals with an efficient application of the mixed sensitivity problem for the position control of the “Delta” parallel robot. The dynamic model of this three degrees of freedom robot is highly nonlinear. An H∞ controller is synthesized in two steps. We first develop the tangential linearized model of the robot around an operating point. The mixed sensitivity problem is then solved. This consists of shaping both the sensitivity and the complementary sensitivity functions of the closed loop system. For the implementation of the control law, a Simmechanics1 multibody mechanical model has been developed to simulate the kinematics and the dynamics of the robot and to validate the control results. The controller is implemented without using the feed forward pre-computed torque and the performances remain satisfactory by decreasing the travel time of the semi-elliptic trajectory for pick and place up to 0.25s. The simulations results of the H∞ controller are compared to those of H2 controller. Robustness analysis through methodical simulation results are presented and commented.
Two-year survey of etiologic agents of diarrheal disease at San Lazaro Hospital, Manila, Republic of the Philippines

The prevalence of bacterial pathogens and rotavirus in 2,908 patients with diarrhea who were admitted to San Lazaro Hospital in Manila in 1983 and 1984 was determined. One or more enteric pathogens were isolated or detected in samples from 1,698 (58.4%) patients. Isolation rates for the various enteropathogens were as follows: rotavirus, 30.6%; Shigella spp. , 11.6%; Salmonella spp. , 9.2%; enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (1983 only), 7.8%; Vibrio cholerae biotype eltor, 3.8%; non-O1 V. cholerae, 2.8%; Vibrio parahaemolyticus, 1.7%; other Vibrio spp. , 1.1%; Campylobacter jejuni, 3.0%; Aeromonas hydrophila, 1.3%; and Plesiomonas shigelloides 1.1%. Giardia lamblia and Entamoeba histolytica were detected in 0.6 and 0.1%, respectively, of stool samples examined. Determination of the etiologic role of isolates was complicated by one or more of the following factors: isolation of multiple enteric pathogens (302 cases); isolation of Salmonella spp. , enterotoxigenic E. coli, and C. jejuni from a similar proportion of asymptomatic control patients and patients with diarrhea; and isolation of a high proportion of certain pathogens (especially Salmonella spp.) only from enrichment broth, suggesting infection with a small number of organisms. Isolation of V. cholerae eltor was seasonal, with the majority of cases occurring in the rainy months. In addition, the number of patients with diarrhea increased with the onset of the monsoon rains and peaked during the months of maximum rainfall. Rotavirus infection occurred in both children and adults throughout the year and was the most frequently identified cause of diarrhea in children under 5 years of age. Shigella spp. were the most common agents of diarrhea in adults.
Geographically Weighted Regression Models in Estimating Median Home Prices in Towns of Massachusetts Based on an Urban Sustainability Framework

Housing is a key component of urban sustainability. The objective of this study was to assess the significance of key spatial determinants of median home price in towns in Massachusetts that impact sustainable growth. Our analysis investigates the presence or absence of spatial non-stationarity in the relationship between sustainable growth, measured in terms of the relationship between home values and various parameters including the amount of unprotected forest land, residential land, unemployment, education, vehicle ownership, accessibility to commuter rail stations, school district performance, and senior population. We use the standard geographically weighted regression (GWR) and Mixed GWR models to analyze the effects of spatial non-stationarity. Mixed GWR performed better than GWR in terms of Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) values. Our findings highlight the nature and spatial extent of the non-stationary vs. stationary qualities of key environmental and social determinants of median home price. Understanding the key determinants of housing values, such as valuation of green spaces, public school performance metrics, and proximity to public transport, enable towns to use different strategies of sustainable urban planning, while understanding urban housing determinants—such as unemployment and senior population—can help modify urban sustainable housing policies.
Laboratory simulation of LNAPL spills and remediation in unsaturated porous media using the image analysis technique: A review

Leaking from underground storage and surface spills of hydrocarbon sources can cause serious nonaqueous phase liquid (NAPL) contamination in subsurface environments. The toxic compounds of chemicals have made field study impracticable and it has been replaced by laboratory and numerical simulations. This paper introduces the methodology for two-dimensional light nonaqueous phase liquid (LNAPL) flow behavior and remediation experiments using the image analysis technique (IAT). The LNAPL flow behavior experiments are divided into qualitative and quantitative infiltration and redistribution experiments, with and without numerical modeling. The laboratory setup for the quantitative experiments emphasizes the sand tank fabrication, sand packing techniques, typical porous media properties, and the selection of the LNAPL source. In this paper, several methods of enhanced remediation experiments are discussed to explain how LNAPL extraction was carried out for remediation. The requirements and image processing in the IAT are also highlighted from the existing researches. From the discussion, this nondestructive and nonintrusive technique can provide safer and larger coverage of regions for saturation imaging of LNAPL distribution in porous media compared to other techniques. Overall, this paper discusses the laboratory works to produce a highly reliable saturation imaging and current visualization technique for characterizing and analyzing NAPL migration in 2-D aquifer models.
Active integrated antenna enhanced using photonic bandgap and defected ground structure

This paper presents a slow-wave low-noise active receiving antenna with defected ground structure (DGS) and photonic bandgap (PBG). The integrated design of a low noise amplifier (LNA) stage and an enhanced patch antenna is presented. The antenna consists of a microstrip patch integrated with one-dimensional DGS in ground plane and two-dimensional PBG. It is demonstrated that application of DGS and PBG eliminates the second and third harmonics and improve the return loss level. Moreover, the combination use of PBG and DGS decreases the occupied area by 61%. Also, by adopting DGS pattern on the ground plane, the length of the output matching network of the LNA shortened by about 39%, while maintaining the matching and performances of the amplifier. This, also, eliminates the third harmonic.
Top quark asymmetry from a non-Abelian horizontal symmetry

Motivated by the persistence of a large measured top quark forward-backward asymmetry at the Tevatron, we examine a model of non-Abelian flavor gauge symmetry. The exchange of the gauge bosons in the t-channel can give a large A t due to the forward Rutherford scattering peak. We address generic constraints on non-Abelian t-channel physics models including flavor diagonal resonances and potentially dangerous contributions to inclusive top pair cross sections. We caution on the general difficulty of comparing theoretical predictions for top quark signals to the existing experimental results due to potentially important acceptance effects. The first signature at the Large Hadron Collider can be a large inclusive top pair cross section, or like-sign dilepton events, although the latter signal is much smaller than in Abelian models. Deviations of the invariant mass distributions at the LHC will also be promising signatures. A more direct consistency check of the Tevatron asymmetry through the LHC asymmetry is more likely to be relevant at a later stage.
3D Printing as a New Packaging Approach for MEMS and Electronic Devices

In this paper we present a new approach for building specific packaging that is scalable, versatile and could be potentially cost competitive. Using polymer additive manufacturing, more commonly known as 3D printing, we set out to build customized structures and packages perfectly adapted to component dimensions and specifications. Two different 3D printing technologies, respectively called stereolithography and Fused Deposition Molding, were studied. The work described in this paper opens plenty of new approaches: device design with a customizable backend packaging process, packaging adapted to each different component, even on the same device, fast device prototyping with accurate characteristics, among others. Our main observation is that the stereolithography technology is compatible with microelectronics substrates. Another technology, fused deposition molding, was also tested, but was not well adapted to packaging components, the major incompatibilities being the inability to print on silicon and some coarser dimensions than those required for microelectronic applications. We argue that specific patterns for the printed structure and compatibility between substrate and printed material (which can be improved with surface modifications) are key requirements to obtain the expected results.