Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Link prediction in social networks using Bayesian networks

Link prediction is as an effective technique in social network analysis to find out the relations between users and has received great concentration by many researchers in recent studies. In this paper a method is proposed for friend recommendation in social networks using Bayesian networks. The Bayesian network is a reliable model to understand the relations between variables and has been used in many areas for prediction. This method with considering effective features on creating friendships, suggests friends to users accurately. First, the goal is to find attributes and similarities that have the most effect on creating a friendship. After that friends with most common similarities will be suggested to each other. The results of the proposed method are compared with those obtained from different algorithms like Friend Of Friend and it is found that the method used in this paper significantly improves the accuracy of friend suggestion due to inclusion of several features.
Inhibition of peptide bond formation by pleuromutilins: the structure of the 50S ribosomal subunit from Deinococcus radiodurans in complex with tiamulin

Tiamulin, a prominent member of the pleuromutilin class of antibiotics, is a potent inhibitor of protein synthesis in bacteria. Up to now the effect of pleuromutilins on the ribosome has not been determined on a molecular level. The 3.5 Å structure of the 50S ribosomal subunit from Deinococcus radiodurans in complex with tiamulin provides for the first time a detailed picture of its interactions with the 23S rRNA, thus explaining the molecular mechanism of the antimicrobial activity of the pleuromutilin class of antibiotics. Our results show that tiamulin is located within the peptidyl transferase center (PTC) of the 50S ribosomal subunit with its tricyclic mutilin core positioned in a tight pocket at the A‐tRNA binding site. Also, the extension, which protrudes from its mutilin core, partially overlaps with the P‐tRNA binding site. Thereby, tiamulin directly inhibits peptide bond formation. Comparison of the tiamulin binding site with other PTC targeting drugs, like chloramphenicol, clindamycin and streptogramins, may facilitate the design of modified or hybridized drugs that extend the applicability of this class of antibiotics.
Potential of RFID in Emergency Management: Task-Technology Fit Perspective

This study aims to explore the potential of adopting radio frequency identification (RFID) in emergency management. In discovering the relevance and practicality of RFID in emergency management, a conceptual framework based on TTF model has been proposed and discussed in this paper. Multiple case study method has been employed to validate the proposed framework. The empirical findings in this study indicate that five key factors influencing the decision to adopt are privacy, compatibility, standardization, implementation and locatability. It is hoped that the findings of this research will inform emergency management organizations to better plan the adoption of RFID for emergency operations.
Inherited variants in genes somatically mutated in thyroid cancer

Background Tumour suppressor genes when mutated in the germline cause various cancers, but they can also be somatically mutated in sporadic tumours. We hypothesized that there may also be cancer-related germline variants in the genes commonly mutated in sporadic well-differentiated thyroid cancer (WDTC). Methods We performed a two-stage case-control association study with a total of 2214 cases and 2108 healthy controls from an Italian population. By genotyping 34 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we covered a total of 59 missense SNPs and SNPs located in the 5' and 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) of 10 different genes. Results The Italian1 series showed a suggestive association for 8 SNPs, from which three were replicated in the Italian2 series. The meta-analysis revealed a study-wide significant association for rs459552 (OR: 0.84, 95%CI: 0.75–0.94) and rs1800900 (OR: 1.15, 95%CI: 1.05–1.27), located in the APC and GNAS genes, respectively. The APC rs459552 is a missense SNP, located in a conserved amino acid position, but without any functional consequences. The GNAS rs1800900 is located at a conserved 5'UTR and according to the experimental ENCODE data it may affect promoter and histone marks in different cell types. Conclusions The results of this study yield new insights on WDTC, showing that inherited variants in the APC and GNAS genes can play a role in the etiology of thyroid cancer. Further studies are necessary to better understand the role of the identified SNPs in the development of WDTC and to functionally validate our in silico predictions.
Clinically Feasible Microstructural MRI to Quantify Cervical Spinal Cord Tissue Injury Using DTI, MT, and T2*-Weighted Imaging: Assessment of Normative Data and Reliability

Forty healthy subjects underwent T2WI, DTI, magnetization transfer, and T2*WI at 3T in <35 minutes using standard hardware and pulse sequences. Cross-sectional area, fractional anisotropy, magnetization transfer ratio, and T2*WI WM/GM signal intensity ratio were calculated. Reliable multiparametric assessment of spinal cord microstructure is possible by using clinically suitable methods. These results establish normalization procedures and pave the way for clinical studies. BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: DTI, magnetization transfer, T2*-weighted imaging, and cross-sectional area can quantify aspects of spinal cord microstructure. However, clinical adoption remains elusive due to complex acquisitions, cumbersome analysis, limited reliability, and wide ranges of normal values. We propose a simple multiparametric protocol with automated analysis and report normative data, analysis of confounding variables, and reliability. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty healthy subjects underwent T2WI, DTI, magnetization transfer, and T2*WI at 3T in <35 minutes using standard hardware and pulse sequences. Cross-sectional area, fractional anisotropy, magnetization transfer ratio, and T2*WI WM/GM signal intensity ratio were calculated. Relationships between MR imaging metrics and age, sex, height, weight, cervical cord length, and rostrocaudal level were analyzed. Test-retest coefficient of variation measured reliability in 24 DTI, 17 magnetization transfer, and 16 T2*WI datasets. DTI with and without cardiac triggering was compared in 10 subjects. RESULTS: T2*WI WM/GM showed lower intersubject coefficient of variation (3.5%) compared with magnetization transfer ratio (5.8%), fractional anisotropy (6.0%), and cross-sectional area (12.2%). Linear correction of cross-sectional area with cervical cord length, fractional anisotropy with age, and magnetization transfer ratio with age and height led to decreased coefficients of variation (4.8%, 5.4%, and 10.2%, respectively). Acceptable reliability was achieved for all metrics/levels (test-retest coefficient of variation < 5%), with T2*WI WM/GM comparing favorably with fractional anisotropy and magnetization transfer ratio. DTI with and without cardiac triggering showed no significant differences for fractional anisotropy and test-retest coefficient of variation. CONCLUSIONS: Reliable multiparametric assessment of spinal cord microstructure is possible by using clinically suitable methods. These results establish normalization procedures and pave the way for clinical studies, with the potential for improving diagnostics, objectively monitoring disease progression, and predicting outcomes in spinal pathologies.
A Self Organizing Map for dissimilarity data 0

The Kohonen Self Organizing Map (SOM) introduced by Professor Kohonen (see Kohonen (1997)) is an unsupervised neural network method which has both clustering and visualization properties. It can be considered as an algorithm that maps a high dimensional data space, R, to lattice space which usually has a lower dimension, generally 2 and is called a Map. This projection enables a partition of the inputs into ”similar” clusters while preserving their topology. Its most similar predecessors are the k-means (see MacQueen (1967)) algorithm and the dynamic clustering method (see Diday et al. (1989)), which operate as a SOM without topology preservation and so without easy visualization. In data analysis, new forms of complex data have to be considered, most notably structured data (data with an internal structure such as intervals data, distributions, functional data, etc) and semi-structured data (trees, XML documents, SQL queries, etc.). In this context, classical data analysis based on calculating the center of gravity can not be used because inputs are not
Towards a user-centred method for studying CVLEs

This paper presents a method for studying multiuser systems in an educational context. The method has been developed as part of the Senet project, which is investigating the use of virtual actors in Collaborative Virtual Learning Environments (CVLEs). A groupware prototype has been studied in order to identify requirements and design factors for the Collaborative Virtual Environments (CVEs). Data collection occurs by videotaping users, capture of text typed in chat boxes, and note taking. The analysis part of the method is partly based on Interaction Analysis and results in a mixture of quantitative and qualitative findings. It deals with transforming vast amount of rich qualitative data in a quantitative form, that can be used to draw design principles for constructing CVEs for learning. The method is described by second phase of work in the Senet project. The paper also shows how the method is being extended to provide a more summative evaluation of the CVE to be developed.
Mild cognitive impairment in high-risk patients with chronic atrial fibrillation: a forgotten component of clinical management?

Objective We examined cognitive function in older hospitalised patients with chronic atrial fibrillation (AF). Design A prospective substudy of a multicentre randomised trial of an AF-specific disease management intervention (the Standard versus Atrial Fibrillation spEcific managmenT studY; SAFETY). Setting Three tertiary referral hospitals within Australia. Patients A total of 260 patients with chronic AF: mean age 72±11 years, 53% men, mean CHA2DS2-VASc score 4±2. Interventions Cognitive function was assessed at baseline (during inpatient stay) using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Main Outcome Measures The extent of mild cognitive impairment (MCI—defined as a MoCA score <26) in AF patients and identification of independent predictors of MCI. Results Overall, 169 patients (65%, 95% CI 59% to 71%) were found to have MCI at baseline (mean MoCA score 21±3). Multiple deficits in cognitive domains were identified, most notably in executive functioning, visuospatial abilities and short-term memory. Predictors of MCI (age and sex-adjusted) were lower education level (technical/trade school level OR 6.00, 95% CI 2.07 to 17.42; <8 years school education OR 5.29, 95% CI 1.95 to 14.36 vs 8–13 years), higher CHA2DS2-VASc score (OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.23 to 1.74) and prescribed digoxin (OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.17 to 4.10). Conclusions MCI is highly prevalent amongst typically older high-risk patients hospitalised with AF. Routine assessment of cognitive function with adjustment of clinical management is indicated for this patient group.
Approach of combining STBC and node selection in energy efficient wireless sensor networks

This paper focuses on the development of effective transmission schemes in energy efficient wireless sensor networks (WSN). By applying full diversity and full rate space time block coding (STBC) and selecting the appropriate relaying nodes to cooperatively receive and transmit signals, we propose a scheme, generalized-node- selection (GNS) algorithm, which takes full advantage of the cooperative diversity and selection diversity and is suitable for the cooperation of a large number of nodes. Compared with currently proposed transmission schemes, the GNS algorithm can greatly reduce the energy consumption and can be applied to WSN, the topology of which is frequently changed. Simulations show the proposed scheme can effectively improve the energy efficiency, and therefore prolong the lifetime of WSN.
Vision Based Following of Locally Linear Structures using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

Inspecting and monitoring oil-gas pipelines, roads, bridges, power generation grids is very important in ensuring the reliability and life expectancy of these civil systems. An autonomous UAV can decrease the operational costs, expedite the monitoring process and be used in situations where manned inspection is not possible. This paper addresses the problem of monitoring these systems using an autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) which follows the locally linear structures using visual feedback.
Distribution of LPXRFa, a gonadotropin‐inhibitory hormone ortholog peptide, and LPXRFa receptor in the brain and pituitary of the tilapia

In vertebrates, gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) and gonadotropin‐inhibitory hormone (GnIH), respectively, regulate reproduction in positive and negative manners. GnIH belongs to the LPXRFa family of peptides previously identified in mammalian and nonmammalian vertebrates. Studying the detailed distribution of LPXRFa as well as its receptor (LPXRFa‐R) in the brain and pituitary is important for understanding their multiple action sites and potential functions. However, the distribution of LPXRFa and LPXRFa‐R has not been studied in teleost species, partially because of the lack of fish‐specific antibodies. Therefore, in the present study, we generated specific antibodies against LPXRFa and its receptor from Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), and examined their distributions in the brain and pituitary by immunohistochemistry. Tilapia LPXRFa‐immunoreactive neurons lie in the posterior ventricular nucleus of the caudal preoptic area, whereas LPXRFa‐R‐immunoreactive cells are distributed widely. Double immunofluorescence showed that neither LPXRFa‐immunoreactive fibers nor LPXRFa‐R is closely associated or coexpressed with GnRH1, GnRH3, or kisspeptin (Kiss2) neurons. In the pituitary, LPXRFa fibers are closely associated with gonadotropic endocrine cells [expressing luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH)], with adrenocorticomelanotropic cells [corticotropin (ACTH) and α‐melanotropin (α‐MSH)], and with somatolactin endocrine cells. In contrast, LPXRFa‐R are expressed only in LH, ACTH, and α‐MSH cells. These results suggest that LPXRFa and LPXRFa‐R signaling acts directly on the pituitary cells independent from GnRH or kisspeptin and could play multiple roles in reproductive and nonreproductive functions in teleosts. J. Comp. Neurol. 524:2753–2775, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching on the plantar flexor muscle‐tendon tissue properties

Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching programs have been shown to be the most effective stretching technique to increase the range of motion (ROM). The objective of this study was to examine the mechanism of effect of PNF stretching on changes in the ROM. Sixty‐two healthy subjects were randomized into two groups: a PNF stretching group and a control group. The PNF group performed a 6‐week stretching program for the calf muscles. Before and after this period, all subjects were evaluated for dorsiflexion ROM, passive resistive torque (PRT) of the plantar flexors and stiffness of the Achilles tendon. The results of the study revealed that the dorsiflexion ROM was significantly increased in the PNF group (ΔROMext: 5.97±0.671°; ΔROMflex: 5.697±0.788°). The PRT of the plantar flexors and the stiffness of the Achilles tendon did not change significantly after 6 weeks of PNF stretching. These findings provide evidence that PNF stretching results in an increased ankle dorsiflexion. However, this increase in ROM could not be explained by a decrease of the PRT or by a change in stiffness of the Achilles tendon, and therefore can be explained by an increase in stretch tolerance.
Draft Genome Sequence of Microbacterium sp. Strain Alg239_V18, an Actinobacterium Retrieved from the Marine Sponge Spongia sp.

ABSTRACT Here, we describe the draft genome sequence of Microbacterium sp. strain Alg239_V18, an actinobacterium retrieved from the marine sponge Spongia sp. Genome annotation revealed a vast gene repertoire involved in antibiotic and heavy metal-resistance, and a versatile carbohydrate assimilation metabolism with potential for chitin utilization.
Prior endurance exercise prevents postprandial lipaemia‐induced increases in reactive oxygen species in circulating CD31+ cells

Non‐Technical Summary Circulating angiogenic cells (CACs) repair and maintain the vascular endothelium. CACs are responsive to lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity. For example, their capacity to regenerate the endothelium is impaired in cardiovascular disease patients, whereas exercise training can improve CAC function. In this study, we examined the effects of a high‐fat meal with and without prior endurance exercise on several molecular aspects of CAC function, including levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), intracellular lipids, and gene expression. Our results indicated that the high‐fat meal induced significant oxidative stress (i.e. ROS production) in the CACs that expressed the cell surface protein CD31. However, when subjects performed a single bout of exercise on the prior day, the meal had no effect on ROS in CD31+ cells. Therefore, we concluded that prior exercise prevents the oxidative stress induced by a high‐fat meal in CD31+ CACs.
Social Networking and Personal Data Security: A Study of Attitudes and Public Awareness in Ireland

This paper reports the findings of a study of attitudes towards data security issues and awareness of the potential risks of social networking sites, most notably the possibility of identity fraud. The population for this study is people in the 18-24 age group living in Ireland, for which the students of one of the country’s main universities were used as a proxy sample. The main findings is that many people have a very casual attitude towards data backup and password protection, a considerable number are not adequately aware of the threats posed by viruses transmitted via portable devices and other such means, and a lot of young people are openly publishing personal information of a sensitive nature that could potentially be maliciously exploited.
Comprehensive Product Platform Planning (CP3) Framework

Development of a family of products that satisfies different market niches introduces significant challenges to today's manufacturing industries—from development time to aftermarket services. A product family with a common platform paradigm offers a powerful solution to these daunting challenges. This paper presents a new approach, the Comprehensive Product Platform Planning (CP 3) framework, to design optimal product platforms. The CP 3 framework formulates a generalized mathematical model for the complex platform planning process. This model (i) is independent of the solution strategy, (ii) allows the formation of sub-families of products, (iii) allows the simultaneous identification of platform design variables and the determination of the corresponding variable values, and (iv) seeks to avoid traditional distinctions between modular and scalable product families from the optimization standpoint. The CP 3 model yields a mixed integer nonlinear programming problem, which is carefully reformulated to allow for the application of continuous optimization using a novel Platform Segregating Mapping Function (PSMF). The PSMF can be employed using any standard global optimization methodology (hence not restrictive); particle swarm optimization has been used in this paper. A preliminary cost function is developed to represent the cost of a product family as a function of the number of products manufactured and the commonality among these products. The proposed CP 3 framework is successfully implemented on a family of universal electric motors. Key observations are made regarding the sensitivity of the optimized product platform to the intended production volume.
Multimodal ocular biometrics approach: A feasibility study

Growing efforts have been concentrated on the development of alternative biometric recognition strategies, the intended goal to increase the accuracy and counterfeit-resistance of existing systems without increased cost. In this paper, we propose and evaluate a novel biometric approach using three fundamentally different traits captured by the same camera sensor. Considered traits include: 1) the internal, non-visible, anatomical properties of the human eye, represented by Oculomotor Plant Characteristics (OPC); 2) the visual attention strategies employed by the brain, represented by Complex Eye Movement patterns (CEM); and, 3) the unique physical structure of the iris. Our experiments, performed using a low-cost web camera, indicate that the combined ocular traits improve the accuracy of the resulting system. As a result, the combined ocular traits have the potential to enhance the accuracy and counterfeit-resistance of existing and future biometric systems.
Implementing Quality Improvement Programs Designed to Enhance Customer Satisfaction: Quasi-Experiments in the United States and Spain

A multinational firm uses sophisticated, state-of-the-art methods to design and implement customer satisfaction improvement programs in the United States and Spain. Quasi-experimental analysis reveals a complex and surprising picture that highlights (1) implementation issues (empowerment), (2) a construct of residual satisfaction not captured by customer needs, and (3) the managerial need for combining nonequivalent controls and nonequivalent dependent variables.
A multiobjective evolutionary algorithm for the task based sailor assignment problem

This paper investigates a multiobjective formulation of the United States Navy's Task based Sailor Assignment Problem and examines the performance of a multiobjective evolutionary algorithm (MOEA), called NSGA-II, on large instances of this problem. Our previous work [3, 5, 4], consider the sailor assignment problem (SAP) as a static assignment, while the present work assumes it as a time dependent multitask SAP, making it a more complex problem, in fact, an NP-complete problem. Experimental results show that the presented genetic-based solution is appropriate for this problem.
Personalized photograph ranking and selection system

In this paper, we propose a novel personalized ranking system for amateur photographs. Although some of the features used in our system are similar to previous work, new features, such as texture, RGB color, portrait (through face detection), and black-and-white, are included for individual preferences. Our goal of automatically ranking photographs is not intended for award-wining professional photographs but for photographs taken by amateurs, especially when individual preference is taken into account. The performance of our system in terms of precision-recall diagram and binary classification accuracy (93%) is close to the best results to date for both overall system and individual features. Two personalized ranking user interfaces are provided: one is feature-based and the other is example-based. Although both interfaces are effective in providing personalized preferences, our user study showed that example-based was preferred by twice as many people as feature-based.