Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Approximating minimum-cost connectivity problems via uncrossable bifamilies

We give approximation algorithms for the Survivable Network problem. The input consists of a graph <i>G</i> = (<i>V,E</i>) with edge/node-costs, a node subset <i>S</i> ⊆ <i>V</i>, and connectivity requirements {<i>r</i>(<i>s,t</i>):<i>s,t</i> ∈ <i>T</i> ⊆ <i>V</i>}. The goal is to find a minimum cost subgraph <i>H</i> of <i>G</i> that for all <i>s,t</i> ∈ <i>T</i> contains <i>r</i>(<i>s,t</i>) pairwise edge-disjoint <i>st</i>-paths such that no two of them have a node in <i>S</i> ∖ {<i>s,t</i>} in common. Three extensively studied particular cases are: Edge-Connectivity Survivable Network (<i>S</i> = ∅), Node-Connectivity Survivable Network (<i>S</i> = <i>V</i>), and Element-Connectivity Survivable Network (<i>r</i>(<i>s,t</i>) = 0 whenever <i>s</i> ∈ <i>S</i> or <i>t</i> ∈ <i>S</i>). Let <i>k</i> = max<i><sub>s,t ∈ T</sub></i> <i>r</i>(<i>s,t</i>). In Rooted Survivable Network, there is <i>s</i> ∈ <i>T</i> such that <i>r</i>(<i>u,t</i>) = 0 for all <i>u</i> ≠ <i>s</i>, and in the Subset <i>k</i>-Connected Subgraph problem <i>r</i>(<i>s,t</i>) = <i>k</i> for all <i>s,t</i> ∈ <i>T</i>. For edge-costs, our ratios are <i>O</i>(<i>k</i> log <i>k</i>) for Rooted Survivable Network and <i>O</i>(<i>k</i><sup>2</sup> log <i>k</i>) for Subset <i>k</i>-Connected Subgraph. This improves the previous ratio <i>O</i>(<i>k</i><sup>2</sup> log <i>n</i>), and for constant values of <i>k</i> settles the approximability of these problems to a constant. For node-costs, our ratios are as follows. —<i>O</i>(<i>k</i> log |<i>T</i>|) for Element-Connectivity Survivable Network, matching the best known ratio for Edge-Connectivity Survivable Network. —<i>O</i>(<i>k</i><sup>2</sup> log |<i>T</i>|) for Rooted Survivable Network and <i>O</i>(<i>k</i><sup>3</sup> log |<i>T</i>|) for Subset <i>k</i>-Connected Subgraph, improving the ratio <i>O</i>(<i>k</i><sup>8</sup> log<sup>2</sup> |<i>T</i>|). —<i>O</i>(<i>k</i><sup>4</sup> log<sup>2</sup> |<i>T</i>|) for Survivable Network; this is the first nontrivial approximation algorithm for the node-costs version of the problem.
Modulation of exploratory behavior for adaptation to the context

For autonomous agents (children, animals or robots), exploratory learning is essential as it allows them to take advantage of their past experiences in order to improve their reactions in any situation similar to a situation already experimented. We have already exposed in Blanchard and Canamero (2005) how a robot can learn which situations it should memorize and try to reach, but we expose here architectures allowing the robot to take initiatives and explore new situations by itself. However, exploring is a risky behavior and we propose to moderate this behavior using novelty and context based on observations of animals’ behaviors. After having implemented and tested these architectures, we present a very interesting emergent behavior which is low-level imitation modulated by context.
Information theoretical based feature selection approach for human skin detection

Detection of human skin in colored images has always been performed in known standard color spaces. In this paper a new color space coordinate is proposed based on popular existing color spaces but taking into account the most representative ones. Selection of the best color components is based on the use of the mutual information and maximum relevance minimum redundancy technique. A Gaussian model based classifier is used to test the performance of the proposed color space transformation.
VFGR: A very fast parallel global router with accurate congestion modeling

With the rapid growth of design size and complexity, global routing has always been a hard problem. Several new factors contribute to global routing congestion and can only be measured and optimized in 3-D global routing rather than 2-D routing. We propose an enhanced congestion model in global routing to capture local congestion and more accurately reflect modern design rule requirements. To achieve better global and detailed routing solution quality, we propose a 3-D global router VFGR with parallel computing using this congestion model. Experimental results show that VFGR can achieve comparable or better global routing solution quality with two start-of-the-art global routers in shorter runtime. It is also demonstrated that adopting proposed congestion model in global routing, higher solution quality and much shorter runtime can be achieved in detailed routing stage.
Short-window spectral analysis using AMVAR and multitaper methods

In this paper, we compare two popular methods for estimating power spectrum for short time series, namely adaptive multivariate autoregressive (AMVAR) method and the multitaper method. By analyzing a simulated signal (embedded in a background Ornstein-Uhlenbeck noise process) we demonstrate that the AMVAR method performs better for very short data when compared to the multitaper method. We also show that coherence can still be detected in noisy bivariate time series data even if the individual power spectra fail to show any peaks.
A resolução de problemas na formação inicial de professores de matemática

Este trabalho é parte do resultado de uma pesquisa, realizada a nível de doutorado pela Unesp - Rio Claro, defendida em 2014. Na pesquisa busca-se investigar a formação inicial do professor de Matemática para a Educação Básica, verificando o potencial da Metodológica de Ensino-Aprendizagem-Avaliação de Matemática através da Resolução de Problemas. Foi aplicado um projeto pedagógico a alunos do 6º semestre do Curso de Licenciatura em Ciências da Natureza e Matemática - Habilitação em Matemática da UFMT - Campus de Sinop, utilizando a Metodológica de Ensino-Aprendizagem-Avaliação de Matemática através da Resolução de Problemas. Palavras-chave: formação inicial de professores; resolução de problemas; educação matemática.
Fast exact from-region visibility in urban scenes

We present a fast exact from-region visibility algorithm for 2.5D urban scenes. The algorithm uses a subdivision of line space for identifying visibility interactions in a 2D footprint of the scene. Visibility in the remaining vertical dimension is resolved by testing for the existence of lines stabbing sequences of virtual portals. Our results show that exact analytic from-region visibility in urban scenes can be computed at times comparable or even superior to recent conservative methods.
A sensitive approach to grasping

Experimental results in psychology have shown the important role of manipulation in guiding infant development. This has inspired work in developmental robotics as well. In this case, however, the beneﬁts of this approach have been limited by the intrinsic dif-ﬁculties of the task. Controlling the interaction between the robot and the environment in a meaningful and safe way is hard especially when little prior knowledge is available. We push the idea that haptic feedback can enhance the way robots interact with unmod-eled environments. We approach grasping and manipulation as tasks driven mainly by tactile and force feedback. We implemented a grasping behavior on a robotic platform with sensitive tactile sensors and compliant actuators; the behavior allows the robot to grasp objects placed on a table. Finally, we demonstrate that the haptic feedback originated by the interaction with the objects carries implicit information about their shape and can be useful for learning.
Lack of an adrenal cortex in Sf1 mutant mice is compatible with the generation and differentiation of chromaffin cells

The diversification of neural-crest-derived sympathoadrenal (SA) progenitor cells into sympathetic neurons and neuroendocrine adrenal chromaffin cells was thought to be largely understood. In-vitro studies with isolated SA progenitor cells had suggested that chromaffin cell differentiation depends crucially on glucocorticoids provided by adrenal cortical cells. However, analysis of mice lacking the glucocorticoid receptor gene had revealed that adrenal chromaffin cells develop mostly normally in these mice. Alternative cues from the adrenal cortex that may promote chromaffin cell determination and differentiation have not been identified. We therefore investigated whether the chromaffin cell phenotype can develop in the absence of an adrenal cortex, using mice deficient for the nuclear orphan receptor steroidogenic factor-1 (SF1), which lack adrenal cortical cells and gonads. We show that in Sf1–/– mice typical chromaffin cells assemble correctly in the suprarenal region adjacent to the suprarenal sympathetic ganglion. The cells display most features of chromaffin cells, including the typical large chromaffin granules. Sf1–/– chromaffin cells are numerically reduced by about 50% compared with the wild type at embryonic day (E) 13.5 and E17.5. This phenotype is not accounted for by reduced survival or cell proliferation beyond E12.5. However, already at E12.5 the `adrenal' region in Sf1–/– mice is occupied by fewer PHOX2B+ and TH+ SA cells as well as SOX10+ neural crest cells. Our results suggest that cortical cues are not essential for determining chromaffin cell fate, but may be required for proper migration of SA progenitors to and/or colonization of the adrenal anlage.
Social studies of the humanities: a case study of research conditions and performance in ancient history and classical archaeology, and English

Research conditions and production in two humanistic disciplines — ancient history and classical archaeology (AHLA), and English are described and compared. A theoretical framework from research evaluation studies which emphasised mediating process factors in conjunction with input factors to explain research output was applied. Results of a questionnaire and interviews showed that the production of publications was generally larger in AHLA than English. The Pearson correlations between the number of researchers and publications and the number of PhD degrees were moderate and high, respectively, in AHLA. In English, both correlation figures were lower. Common features of the two disciplines were a cosmopolitical direction, similar publication profiles and research quality conceptions. Distinguishing factors were related to theoretical, working style and organisational conditions which may have influenced productivity differences. Copyright , Beech Tree Publishing.
Förderung früher mathematischer Kompetenzen: Spielintegriert oder trainingsbasiert?

In dieser vergleichenden Interventionsstudie zu den fruhen mathematischen Kompetenzen wurde eine spielintegrierte mit einer trainingsbasierten Fruhforderung und einer Kontrollgruppe verglichen. Es nahmen 329 sechsjahrige Kinder aus 35 zufallig den drei Gruppen zugeteilten Kindergartenklassen teil. Fur die spielintegrierte Forderung wurden eigens entwickelte Spiele eingesetzt, fur die trainingsbasierte Forderung das Programm „Mengen, zahlen, Zahlen“ (Krajewski, Nieding & Schneider, 2007). Die zwei Forderbedingungen unterschieden sich im Hinblick auf die Lehrmethode (spielbasiert versus direkte Instruktion) und die durchschnittliche Gruppengrose in der Fordersituation (kleinere Gruppen in der spielintegrierten Forderung). Die Variablen kognitive Fahigkeiten, Bildungsnahe, sozio-okonomischer Status und elterliche Erwartungen wurden kontrolliert. Vor sowie nach der Intervention wurden die mathematischen Kompetenzen gemessen. Fur die spielintegrierte Forderung zeigte sich im Vergleich zur Kontrollgruppe ein si.
High potential of symbiotic interactions between native mycorrhizal fungi and the exotic tree Eucalyptus camaldulensis for phytostabilization of metal-contaminated arid soils

Abstract Waste dumps generated by mining activities contain heavy metals that are dispersed into areas leading to significant environmental contamination. The objectives of this study were (i) to survey native plants and their associated AM fungal communities from waste soils in a Moroccan mine site and (ii) to follow Eucalyptus growth in soil collected from the waste-mine. AM spores from native plant species were collected from the mining site and the surrounding uncontaminated areas were multiplied and inoculated onto Eucalyptus camaldulensis. The results showed that (i) the native plant species recorded in the waste did not show an active metal uptake, (ii) the selected native plant species are associated with AM mycorrhizal fungi and (iii) the use of AM fungi adapted to these drastic conditions can improve the growth of the fast-growing tree, E. camaldulensis and its tolerance to high soil Cu content. In conclusion, it is suggested that in order to define efficient low-cost phytostabilization processes, the use of native resources (i.e., mixtures of native mycorrhizal fungi) in combination with fast-growing tree species such as Eucalyptus, could be used to optimize the establishment of a permanent cover plant in contaminated areas.
A Typology of Men's Conceptualizations of Ideal Masculinity in Advertising

This study explores men's conceptualizations of ideal masculinity in advertising. Specifically, this research uses a qualitative approach to examine a segment of men who fall into the Generation X cohort. These men, many of whom are Caucasian and single, are largely educated, from the Midwest, and outwardly heterosexual. Exploratory findings reveal the salience of eight themes of ideal masculinity. These include the Adventurer, the Athlete, the Attractive Man, the Daredevil, the Family Man, the Goal-Driven Man, the Individual, and the Strong Man. Three themes exemplifying the antithesis of ideal masculinity—the Player, the Partier, and the Slob—also emerged. This research enhances our knowledge of men's perceptions of ideal masculinity in advertising and provides new insights relative to past research. Findings identify messages that resonate with consumers' lives, as well as illuminate potential social implications.
Flow experiences in everyday activities of Japanese college students: Autotelic people and time management1

Abstract: This study examines the characteristics of flow activities, executive skills of time management and goal directedness related to autotelic personality styles. Japanese college students (155 men and 168 women) completed the Flow Experience Checklist, Evaluation after Everyday Life Activities Scale, Time Management Skill Scale, Experiential Time Perspective Scale, and Multiple Mood Scale with reference to five everyday activities. The results suggest that flow activities are related to the process of personal growth and self-advancement, and also provide pleasure and motivation for subsequent activity. Autotelic people reported the highest amount of flow experience in everyday activities, and the highest scores on time management and goal directedness.
Molecular characterization of HOXA13 polyalanine expansion proteins in hand–foot–genital syndrome

We report on a father and daughter with hand–foot–genital syndrome (HFGS) with typical skeletal and genitourinary anomalies due to a 14‐residue polyalanine expansion in HOXA13. This is the largest (32 residues) polyalanine tract so far described for any polyalanine mutant protein. Polyalanine expansion results in protein misfolding, cytoplasmic aggregation and degradation; however, HOXA13 polyalanine expansions appear to act as loss of function mutations in contrast to gain of function for HOXD13 polyalanine expansions. To address this paradox we examined the cellular consequences of polyalanine expansions on HOXA13 protein using COS cell transfection and immunocytochemistry. HOXA13 polyalanine expansion proteins form cytoplasmic aggregates, and distribution between cytoplasmic aggregates or the nucleus is polyalanine tract size‐dependent. Geldanamycin, an Hsp90 inhibitor, reduces the steady‐state abundance of all polyalanine‐expanded proteins in transfected cells. We also found that wild‐type HOXA13 or HOXD13 proteins are sequestered in HOXA13 polyalanine expansion cytoplasmic aggregates. Thus, the difference between HOXA13 polyalanine expansion loss‐of‐function and HOXD13 polyalanine expansion dominant‐negative effect is not the ability to aggregate wild‐type group 13 paralogs but perhaps to variation in activities associated with refolding, aggregation or degradation of the proteins. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Establishment and Characterization of a Model of Acquired Resistance to Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Targeting Agents in Human Cancer Cells

Purpose: The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is recognized as a key mediator of proliferation and progression in many human tumors. A series of EGFR-specific inhibitors have recently gained Food and Drug Administration approval in oncology. These strategies of EGFR inhibition have shown major tumor regressions in approximately 10% to 20% of advanced cancer patients. Many tumors, however, eventually manifest resistance to treatment. Efforts to better understand the underlying mechanisms of acquired resistance to EGFR inhibitors, and potential strategies to overcome resistance, are greatly needed. Experimental Design: To develop cell lines with acquired resistance to EGFR inhibitors we utilized the human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma tumor cell line SCC-1. Cells were treated with increasing concentrations of cetuximab, gefitinib, or erlotinib, and characterized for the molecular changes in the EGFR inhibitor–resistant lines relative to the EGFR inhibitor–sensitive lines. Results: EGFR inhibitor–resistant lines were able to maintain their resistant phenotype in both drug-free medium and in athymic nude mouse xenografts. In addition, EGFR inhibitor–resistant lines showed a markedly increased proliferation rate. EGFR inhibitor–resistant lines had elevated levels of phosphorylated EGFR, mitogen-activated protein kinase, AKT, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, which were associated with reduced apoptotic capacity. Subsequent in vivo experiments indicated enhanced angiogenic potential in EGFR inhibitor–resistant lines. Finally, EGFR inhibitor–resistant lines showed cross-resistance to ionizing radiation. Conclusions: We have developed EGFR inhibitor–resistant human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines. This model provides a valuable preclinical tool to investigate molecular mechanisms of acquired resistance to EGFR blockade.
Automatic field map generation and off‐resonance correction for projection reconstruction imaging

A new projection reconstruction technique utilizes the oversampling of low spatial frequencies to estimate and correct for off‐resonance effects. Interleaved spokes are acquired at one of two different echo times. From separated early‐TE and late‐TE raw data, two one‐quarter resolution images are reconstructed and a one‐quarter resolution field map is computed. Multifrequency reconstruction with all the data is then used to simultaneously correct for off‐resonance and compensate for the difference in echo times. Resulting images obtained on phantoms and in vivo demonstrate significantly reduced off‐resonance artifact without the acquisition of a separate field map. Magn Reson Med 43:151–154, 2000. © 2000 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hypertonic saline solution for control of elevated intracranial pressure in patients with exhausted response to mannitol and barbiturates.

Critically elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) represents the most important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients suffering from severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and is a serious complication after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Thus new strategies for the control of ICP are required. Based on the evidence available hypertonic saline solution (HSS) may be a promising approach. It was therefore the aim of the present study to evaluate in a prospective manner the effects of HSS on ICP and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) in patients with therapy-resistant elevation of ICP. A total of 48 bolus infusions of HSS (7.5%, 2 ml kg-1 b.w.; infusion rate 20 ml min-1) were given intravenously (range 1-15 per patient) to 10 patients (age 41 +/- 6 years) with TBI and SAH. Only patients with ICP > 25 mmHg not responding to standard ICP-management protocol and plasma sodium (Na+) concentration < 150 mmol l-1 were included in the study. Within the first hour after HSS application, ICP decreased from 33 +/- 9 mmHg to 19 +/- 6 mmHg (p < 0.05) and further to 18 +/- 5 mmHg at the time of maximum effect (98 +/- 11 min post bolus). Decrease of ICP was accompanied by a rise of CPP from 68 +/- 11 mmHg to 79 +/- 11 mmHg (p < 0.05) after 1 h and further to 81 +/- 11 mmHg at the time of maximum effect. Plasma Na+ concentration was 141 +/- 6 mmol l-1 before and 143 +/- 5 mmol l-1 1 h after HSS bolus. Corresponding values for plasma osmolality were 302 +/- 11 and 308 +/- 12 mOsm l-1. When the ICP lowering effect was transient, subsequent HSS bolus was necessary 163 +/- 54 min after previous dosing. The present results indicate that repeated bolus application of HSS (7.5% NaCl, 2 ml kg-1 b.w.) is an effective measure to decrease ICP which is otherwise refractory to standard therapeutic approaches. Whether or not the therapy scheme is also suited as primary measure for the control of ICP remains to be established.
Cybersecurity procurement language for energy delivery systems

In order to encourage and support the incorporation of cybersecurity in the procurement of energy systems and components, the Energy Sector Control Systems Working Group (ESCSWG), Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), and Energetics Incorporated have prepared Cybersecurity Procurement Language for Energy Delivery Systems (henceforth referred to as ESCSWG [2014]), with significant input from industry stakeholders and experts. This document, published in April 2014, seeks to promote cybersecurity by design through the procurement process by providing baseline language tailored to the specific needs of the energy sector. Updated and easy-to-use procurement language for the energy sector can aid in addressing some of the evolving challenges faced by asset owners, operators, and suppliers by providing a starting point for these stakeholders to communicate expectations and requirements in a clear and repeatable manner.
Therapeutic Efficacy of Orally Delivered Doxorubicin Nanoparticles in Rat Tongue Cancer Induced by 4-Nitroquinoline 1-Oxide.

PURPOSE Oral cancer is one of the most significant cancers in the world, and squamous cell carcinoma makes up about 94% of oral malignancies. The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of doxorubicin plus methotrexate - loaded nanoparticles on tongue squamous cell carcinoma induced by 4NQO and compare it with the commercial doxorubicin and methotrexate delivered orally on seventy SD male rats. METHODS 70 rats were divided into five groups. During the study, the animals were weighed by a digital scale once a week. Number of mortalities was recorded in the data collection forms. At the end of the treatment, biopsy samples were taken from rat tongues in order to evaluate the severity of dysplasia and the extent of cell proliferation. The results were analyzed using ANOVA, descriptive statistics and chi-square test. RESULTS No statistically significant difference was found in the mean weight of five groups (p>0.05). No significant relationship was found between groups and mortality rate (P = 0. 39). In addition, there was a significant relationship between groups and the degree of dysplasia (P <0.001). The statistical analysis showed a significant relationship between groups and the rate of cell proliferation (p <0.001). CONCLUSION The results of the present study showed that the use of doxorubicin plus methotrexate - loaded nanoparticles orally had more therapeutic effects than commercial doxorubicin plus methotrexate.