Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The impact of problem-based learning on students' perceptions of preparedness for advanced pharmacy practice experiences.

OBJECTIVES To evaluate graduating pharmacy students' perceptions of their preparedness for advanced pharmacy practice experiences and the effectiveness of problem-based learning in their preparation. METHODS A survey instrument was administered anonymously in May 2004 and May 2005 to graduating pharmacy students of the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy. RESULTS Students reported that the areas in which problem-based learning prepared them most effectively for advanced pharmacy practice experiences were retrieval of medical information (80%), discussion of disease states and drug therapies at the basic science level (56%), and evaluation of the appropriateness of a medication regimen based on patient specific information (50%). Areas in which students reported being inadequately prepared included identifying and utilizing drug assistance programs (42%) and processing prescriptions/hospital orders (40%). CONCLUSION Data from 2 consecutive graduating classes supports that problem-based learning is an effective format for preparing pharmacy students for advanced pharmacy practice experiences in a variety of areas.
Using Geographical Data and Sonar to Improve GPS Localization for Mobile Robots

Internet technology and the availability of large public knowledge bases should enable future autonomous systems to drastically improve their perceptual and cognitive capabi lities with only inexpensive sensors. In this paper we investigate this aspect with respect to robot self-localization. We pre sent a method to improve GPS-based localization of mobile robots using geographic data from a public database. From a cadastr al map a basic map of a robot’s working area is automatically created. A mobile robot is equipped with a low-cost GPS recei ver and ultrasonic sensors. Then, a particle filter is used to fus e GPS position values and odometry data and to match sonar scan data with the a priori geodata map. The map is also updated with previously unknown environment features. The algorithm was tested in an outdoor environment with uneven terrain. Experimental results show considerable improvements in position estimation compared to using GPS alone.
Architecting the Last-Level Cache for GPUs using STT-RAM Technology

Future GPUs should have larger L2 caches based on the current trends in VLSI technology and GPU architectures toward increase of processing core count. Larger L2 caches inevitably have proportionally larger power consumption. In this article, having investigated the behavior of GPGPU applications, we present an efficient L2 cache architecture for GPUs based on STT-RAM technology. Due to its high-density and low-power characteristics, STT-RAM technology can be utilized in GPUs where numerous cores leave a limited area for on-chip memory banks. They have, however, two important issues, high energy and latency of write operations, that have to be addressed. Low retention time STT-RAMs can reduce the energy and delay of write operations. Nevertheless, employing STT-RAMs with low retention time in GPUs requires a thorough study on the behavior of GPGPU applications. Based on this investigation, we have architectured a two-part STT-RAM-based L2 cache with low-retention (LR) and high-retention (HR) parts. The proposed two-part L2 cache exploits a dynamic threshold regulator (DTR) to efficiently regulate the write threshold for migration of the data blocks from HR to LR, based on the behavior of the applications. Also, a Data and Access type Aware Cache Search mechanism (DAACS) is hired for handling the search of the requested data blocks in two parts of the cache. The STT-RAM L2 cache architecture proposed in this article can improve IPC by up to 171% (20% on average), and reduce the average consumed power by 28.9% compared to a conventional L2 cache architecture with equal on-chip area.
Platelet proteomics in thalassemia: Factors responsible for hypercoagulation

Thalassemias can be defined as a group with inherited hemolytic anemia due to differential expressions of α and β globin genes. Hemoglobin E combined with β thalassemia (HbEβ) creates high oxidative stress in platelets producing different degrees of pathophysiological severity. Numerous cases of thalassemia have been reported with thromboembolic complications due to the hypercoagulable state, the mechanism underlying that is not yet well understood.
Neurocomputational Consequences of Evolutionary Connectivity Changes in Perisylvian Language Cortex

The human brain sets itself apart from that of its primate relatives by specific neuroanatomical features, especially the strong linkage of left perisylvian language areas (frontal and temporal cortex) by way of the arcuate fasciculus (AF). AF connectivity has been shown to correlate with verbal working memory—a specifically human trait providing the foundation for language abilities—but a mechanistic explanation of any related causal link between anatomical structure and cognitive function is still missing. Here, we provide a possible explanation and link, by using neurocomputational simulations in neuroanatomically structured models of the perisylvian language cortex. We compare networks mimicking key features of cortical connectivity in monkeys and humans, specifically the presence of relatively stronger higher-order “jumping links” between nonadjacent perisylvian cortical areas in the latter, and demonstrate that the emergence of working memory for syllables and word forms is a functional consequence of this structural evolutionary change. We also show that a mere increase of learning time is not sufficient, but that this specific structural feature, which entails higher connectivity degree of relevant areas and shorter sensorimotor path length, is crucial. These results offer a better understanding of specifically human anatomical features underlying the language faculty and their evolutionary selection advantage. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Why do humans have superior language abilities compared to primates? Recently, a uniquely human neuroanatomical feature has been demonstrated in the strength of the arcuate fasciculus (AF), a fiber pathway interlinking the left-hemispheric language areas. Although AF anatomy has been related to linguistic skills, an explanation of how this fiber bundle may support language abilities is still missing. We use neuroanatomically structured computational models to investigate the consequences of evolutionary changes in language area connectivity and demonstrate that the human-specific higher connectivity degree and comparatively shorter sensorimotor path length implicated by the AF entail emergence of verbal working memory, a prerequisite for language learning. These results offer a better understanding of specifically human anatomical features for language and their evolutionary selection advantage.
Robust Power Allocation for OFDM-Based Cognitive Radio Networks under Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise-Ratio Constraints

Traditional power allocation schemes in Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) based Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs) are achieved under perfect channel state information (i.e., exact parameter information). Due to channel estimation errors and feedback delays, however, channel uncertainties are inevitable in practical CRNs. In this paper, considering bounded channel uncertainties, a robust power allocation algorithm is proposed to minimize the total transmit power of Secondary Users (SUs) subject to the interference temperature constraint of primary user and the received Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio (SINR) constraint of SU where the non-convex optimization problem is converted into a convex optimization problem that is solved by dual decomposition theory. Numerical results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm by comparing with the non-robust algorithm in the aspect of suppressing the effect of parameter uncertainties.
Fabrication by rf-sputtering processing of Er3+/Yb3+-codoped silica-titania planar waveguides

Er3+/Yb3+-codoped 92SiO2-8TiO2 planar waveguides, with 1.2 mol% Er and molar ratio Er/Yb of 2, were fabricated by rf-sputtering technique. The active films were deposited on silica-on-silicon and v-SiO2 substrates. The parameters of preparation were chosen in order to optimize the waveguides for operation in the NIR region with particular attention to the minimization of the losses. The thickness of the waveguides and the refractive index at 632.8 and 543.5 nm were measured by an m-line apparatus. The losses, for the TE0 mode, were evaluated at 632.8 and 1300 nm. The structural properties were investigated with several techniques such as Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry, Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy and Raman Spectroscopy. All waveguides were single-mode at 1550 nm. An attenuation coefficient of 0.5 dB/cm at 632.8 nm and 0.1 dB/cm at 1300 nm were measured. The emission of 4I13/2 → 4I15/2 of Er3+ ion transition with a 40 nm bandwidth was observed upon excitation at 981 and 514.5 nm in the TE0 mode. Back energy transfer from Er3+ to Yb3+ was demonstrated. Photoluminescence excitation spectroscopy was used to obtain information about the effective excitation efficiency of Er3+ ions by co-doping with Yb3+ ions.
Electropolymerization of conjugated polymers in mesoporous titania for photovoltaic applications

We report the electropolymerization of poly(3-methylthiophene) (P3MT) in mesoporous titania. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) depth-profiling experiments confirm that the polymer filled the pores continuously from the bottom electrode to the top surface of the mesoporous titania. Photovoltaic cells with this structure show 0.23% power efficiency under 3.3mW/cm2 514 nm monochromatic illumination.
Effects of recombinant growth hormone (GH) replacement and psychomotor and cognitive stimulation in the neurodevelopment of GH-deficient (GHD) children with cerebral palsy: a pilot study

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the main cause of physical disability in childhood and is an important health issue that has a strong socioeconomic impact. There is no effective treatment for CP and therapeutic approaches report only partial benefits for affected people. In this study we assessed the effects of growth hormone (GH) treatment combined with psychomotor and cognitive stimulation in the neurodevelopment of children with CP and GH deficiency (GHD). The study was carried out in 11 patients (7 boys and 4 girls; 4.12 ± 1.31 years) with GHD and CP who were treated with recombinant GH (rGH) and psychomotor and cognitive stimulation during 2 months. Battelle Developmental Inventory Screening Test (BDIST) was performed 2 months before commencing GH treatment, just before commencing GH administration, and after 2 months of combined treatment involving GH and cognitive stimulation. Psychomotor and cognitive status did not change during the period in which only cognitive stimulation was performed; however, significant improvements in personal and social skills, adaptive behavior, gross motor skills and total psychomotor abilities, receptive and total communication, cognitive skills and in the total score of the test (P < 0.01), and in fine motor skills and expressive communication (P < 0.02) were observed after the combined treatment period. Therefore, GH replacement together with psychomotor and cognitive stimulation seem to be useful for the appropriate neurodevelopment of children with GHD and CP.
RoadLab: An In-Vehicle Laboratory for Developing On-Board i-ADAS

According to the WHO (World Health Organization), world-wide deaths from injuries are projected to rise from 5.1 million in 1990 to 8.4 million in 2020, with traffic-related incidents as the major cause for this increase. Intelligent, Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (i-ADAS) provide a number of solutions to these safety challenges. We developed a scalable in-vehicle mobile i-ADAS research platform for the purpose of traffic context analysis and behavioral prediction designed for understanding fundamental issues in intelligent vehicles. We outline our general approach and describe the in-vehicle instrumentation. We present a number of research challenges and early results, as we outline future directions.
Terascale direct numerical simulations of turbulent combustion

Combustion currently provides 85% of our nation's energy needs. Furthermore, because of the large infrastructure costs combustion will continue to be the predominant source of energy for the near and middle term. Concerns over U.S. dependence on imported oil coupled with pollution and greenhouse gas emission issues require that we develop a new generation of combustion systems that provide both high efficiency and low emissions. Terascale and petascale high-fidelity simulations of turbulent combustion flows are poised to address complex multi-physics, multi-scale interactions, such as the so-called turbulence-chemistry interactions in combustion flows. Using an approach known as direct numerical simulation, where all relevant fluids and chemical scales are numerically resolved, underlying phenomena in devices can be uniquely understood and modelled. Results from recent terascale DNS simulations of turbulent combustion will be presented to illustrate cyberinfrastructure requirements for combustion science. Significant challenges remain to extract salient information from terascale combustion data sets, and to manage data movement, storage, workflow and data sharing over the wide-area-network.
OntoSeek: content-based access to the Web

For online yellow pages and product catalogs, structured content representations coupled with linguistic ontologies can increase both recall and precision of content based retrieval. Our OntoSeek system adopts a language of limited expressiveness for content representation and uses a large ontology based on WordNet for content matching. WordNet is a linguistic database formed by synsets-terms grouped into semantic equivalence sets, each one assigned to a lexical category (noun, verb, adverb, adjective). Each synset represents a particular sense of an English word and is usually expressed as a unique combination of synonymous words.
Ju n 20 04 A Single Atom Transistor in a 1 D Optical Lattice

Coupling of a spin 1/2 system to Bosonic and Fermionic modes is one of the fundamental building blocks of quantum optics and solid state physics. Motivated by the recent progress with cold atoms in 1D [1], we consider a spin 1/2 atomic impurity which is used to switch the transport of either a 1D Bose-Einstein Condensate (BEC) or a 1D degenerate Fermi gas initially situated to one side of the impurity. In one spin state the impurity is transparent to the probe atoms, whilst in the other it acts as single atom mirror, prohibiting transport via a quantum interference mechanism reminiscent of electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) [2] (Fig. 1a). Observation of the atomic current passing the impurity can then be used as a quantum nondemolition (QND) measurement [3] of its internal state, which can be seen to encode a qubit, |ψq〉 = α|↑〉 + β|↓〉. If a macroscopic number of atoms pass the impurity, then the system will be in a macroscopic superposition, |Ψ(t)〉 = α|↑〉|φ↑(t)〉 + β|↓〉|φ↓(t)〉, which can form the basis for a single shot readout of the qubit spin. Here, |φσ(t)〉 denotes the state of the probe atoms after evolution to time t, given that the qubit is in state σ (Fig. 1a). In view of the analogy between state amplification via this type of blocking mechanism and readout with single electron transistors (SET) used in solid state systems [4], we refer to this setup as a Single Atom Transistor (SAT). We propose the implementation of a SAT using cold atoms in 1D optical lattices [5, 6, 7, 8]. We consider probe atoms b to be loaded in the lattice to the left of a site containing the impurity atom, which is trapped by a separate (e.g., spin-dependent [8]) potential (Fig. 1b). The passage of b atoms past the impurity q is then governed by the spin-dependent effective collisional interaction Hint = ∑ σ Ueff,σ b̂ † 0b̂0q̂ † σ q̂σ. By making use of a quantum interference mechanism, we engineer complete complete blocking (effectively Ueff → ∞) for one spin state and complete transmission (Ueff → 0) for the other. Below we first consider the detailed scattering processes involved in the transport of a single particle through the SAT, and then generalise this to interacting manyparticle systems including a 1D Tonks gas. The quantum interference mechanism needed to engi" " (a) (b)
Assessment of problem solving in computing studies

The assessment of learning outcomes is a key concept in the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) since credits are awarded when the assessment shows the competences which were aimed at have been developed at an appropriate level. This paper describes a study which was first part of the Bologna Experts Team-Spain project and then developed as an independent study. It was carried out with the overall goal to gain experience in the assessment of learning outcomes. More specifically it aimed at 1) designing procedures for the assessment of learning outcomes related to these compulsory generic competences; 2) testing some basic psychometric features that an assessment device with some consequences for the subjects being evaluated needs to prove; 3) testing different procedures of standard setting, and 4) using assessment results as orienting feedback to students and their tutors. The process of development of tests to carry out the assessment of learning outcomes is described as well as some basic features regarding their reliability and validity. First conclusions on the comparison of the results achieved at two academic levels are also presented.
Multiple Many-to-Many Sequence Alignment for Combining String-Valued Variables: A G2P Experiment

We investigate multiple many-to-many alignments as a primary step in integrating supplemental information strings in string transduction. Besides outlining DP based solutions to the multiple alignment problem, we detail an approximation of the problem in terms of multiple sequence segmentations satisfying a coupling constraint. We apply our approach to boosting baseline G2P systems using homogeneous as well as heterogeneous sources of supplemental information.
On understanding types, data abstraction, and polymorphism

Our objective is to understand the notion of type in programming languages, present a model of typed, polymorphic programming languages that reflects recent research in type theory, and examine the relevance of recent research to the design of practical programming languages. Object-oriented languages provide both a framework and a motivation for exploring the interaction among the concepts of type, data abstraction, and polymorphism, since they extend the notion of type to data abstraction and since type inheritance is an important form of polymorphism. We develop a λ-calculus-based model for type systems that allows us to explore these interactions in a simple setting, unencumbered by complexities of production programming languages. The evolution of languages from untyped universes to monomorphic and then polymorphic type systems is reviewed. Mechanisms for polymorphism such as overloading, coercion, subtyping, and parameterization are examined. A unifying framework for polymorphic type systems is developed in terms of the typed λ-calculus augmented to include binding of types by quantification as well as binding of values by abstraction. The typed λ-calculus is augmented by universal quantification to model generic functions with type parameters, existential quantification and packaging (information hiding) to model abstract data types, and bounded quantification to model subtypes and type inheritance. In this way we obtain a simple and precise characterization of a powerful type system that includes abstract data types, parametric polymorphism, and multiple inheritance in a single consistent framework. The mechanisms for type checking for the augmented λ-calculus are discussed. The augmented typed λ-calculus is used as a programming language for a variety of illustrative examples. We christen this language Fun because fun instead of λ is the functional abstraction keyword and because it is pleasant to deal with. Fun is mathematically simple and can serve as a basis for the design and implementation of real programming languages with type facilities that are more powerful and expressive than those of existing programming languages. In particular, it provides a basis for the design of strongly typed object-oriented languages.
Simulated Impact of RTS,S/AS01 Vaccination Programs in the Context of Changing Malaria Transmission

Introduction The RTS,S/AS01 pre-erythrocytic malaria vaccine is in phase III clinical trials. It is critical to anticipate where and how it should be implemented if trials are successful. Such planning may be complicated by changing levels of malaria transmission. Methods/results Computer simulations were used to examine RTS,S/AS01 impact, using a vaccine profile based on phase II trial results, and assuming that protection decays only slowly. Settings were simulated in which baseline transmission (in the absence of vaccine) was fixed or varied between 2 and 20 infectious mosquito bites per person per annum (ibpa) over ten years. Four delivery strategies were studied: routine infant immunization (EPI), EPI plus infant catch-up, EPI plus school-based campaigns, and EPI plus mass campaigns. Impacts in changing transmission settings were similar to those in fixed settings. Assuming a persistent effect of vaccination, at 2 ibpa, the vaccine averted approximately 5–7 deaths per 1000 doses of vaccine when delivered via mass campaigns, but the benefit was less at higher transmission levels. EPI, catch-up and school-based strategies averted 2–3 deaths per 1000 doses in settings with 2 ibpa. In settings where transmission was decreasing or increasing, EPI, catch-up and school-based strategies averted approximately 3–4 deaths per 1000 doses. Discussion Where transmission is changing, it appears to be sufficient to consider simulations of pre-erythrocytic vaccine impact at a range of initial transmission levels. At 2 ibpa, mass campaigns averted the most deaths and reduced transmission, but this requires further study. If delivered via EPI, RTS,S/AS01 could avert approximately 6–11 deaths per 1000 vaccinees in all examined settings, similar to estimates for pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in African infants. These results support RTS,S/AS01 implementation via EPI, for example alongside vector control interventions, providing that the phase III trials provide support for our assumptions about efficacy.
Discovery of characteristic patterns from tabular structured data including missing values

This paper proposes a method dealing with missing values in the discovery of frequent patterns. Also, it proposes a method that effectively discovers the patterns from examples composed of attributes and their values. The method generates candidate patterns based on the combination of attributes and the combination of attribute values. It evaluates the patterns based on two supports. These supports are calculated based on the number of examples that do not include missing values in attributes composing target items and in all attributes. The proposed method is verified by comparing it with the existing methods dealing with missing values.