Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Production and Proteomic Characterization of Pharmaceutical-Grade Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Dermatophagoides farinae Extracts for Allergy Vaccines

Background: House dust mites (HDM) such as Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Dermatophagoides farinae represent a major cause of type 1 allergies worldwide. Hence large quantities of well-characterized HDM extracts are needed to prepare pharmaceutical-grade allergy vaccines. To this aim, the present study was undertaken to define optimal conditions for large-scale cultures. Methods:D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae were grown on different media combining various proportions of wheat germ, yeast and synthetic amino acids (the latter resembling the composition of the human stratum corneum). Extracts thus obtained were analyzed for their total allergenic activity, as well as major allergen and protein contents, using immunosorbent assays, HPLC, immunoblotting, two-dimensional electrophoresis and peptide mass fingerprinting. Results: An optimal culture medium (Stalmite APF®) based on wheat germ, yeast and amino acids in defined proportion (42, 42 and 15% w/w, respectively) was selected to grow various HDM species with high yields. A detailed proteomic analysis revealed that D. pteronyssinus extracts generated under such conditions did not contain allergens originating from culture medium components and that major prevalent HDM allergens (i.e. groups 1, 2, 7, 10, 13 and 20) are found among the most abundant proteins in the D. pteronyssinus extract. Semiquantitative dot-blot assays confirmed the presence of Der p 3–10 as well as Der p 13 and 14 allergens within the extracts. Conclusions: We developed a well-defined medium allowing to grow various HDM species at an industrial scale in a highly reproducible manner. Extracts from mites produced under such pharmaceutical conditions contain all the relevant allergens for desensitization purposes and in vivodiagnosis.
Design of interaction techniques for clickable touch screens

A clickable touch screen (CTS) offers an additional finger pressing state that allows users to feel a distinct click when they press the screen. CTS phones that exist in the market use this additional state only for a few safety features such as adding a preview step before committing to an action. A more systematic investigation of the possible interaction techniques using a CTS is needed to achieve a fuller utilization of this additional state. Accordingly, we conducted a brainstorming session to investigate the unexplored design space of CTS operations, and identified a set of CTS operations that make good use of this additional state. We then characterized the CTS operations using two kinds of notations that we developed to visualize both their temporal and spatial aspects, and named them based on their characteristics. Finally, we examined the feasibility of the CTS operations by implementing usage scenarios on a CTS phone and conducting user experiments.
A 32b VLSI CPU chip

This paper will cover a fully-integrated 32b VLSI processing system with six VLSI chips, containing up to 600,000 transistors/chip. Chips are: 32b CPU, I/O processor, memory controller, 128Kb RAM and 528Kb ROM.
Everything you always wanted to know about multicore graph processing but were afraid to ask

Graph processing systems are used in a wide variety of fields, ranging from biology to social networks, and a large number of such systems have been described in the recent literature. We perform a systematic comparison of various techniques proposed to speed up in-memory multicore graph processing. In addition, we take an end-to-end view of execution time, including not only algorithm execution time, but also pre-processing time and the time to load the graph input data from storage. More specifically, we study various data structures to represent the graph in memory, various approaches to pre-processing and various ways to structure the graph computation. We also investigate approaches to improve cache locality, synchronization, and NUMA-awareness. In doing so, we take our inspiration from a number of graph processing systems, and implement the techniques they propose in a single system. We then selectively enable different techniques, allowing us to assess their benefits in isolation and independent of unrelated implementation considerations. Our main observation is that the cost of pre-processing in many circumstances dominates the cost of algorithm execution, calling into question the benefits of proposed algorithmic optimizations that rely on extensive preprocessing. Equally surprising, using radix sort turns out to be the most efficient way of pre-processing the graph input data into adjacency lists, when the graph input data is already in memory or is loaded from fast storage. Furthermore, we adapt a technique developed for out-of-core graph processing, and show that it significantly improves cache locality. Finally, we demonstrate that NUMA-awareness and its attendant pre-processing costs are beneficial only on large machines and for certain algorithms.
Efficient Multi-Beaming for the Next Generation of Radio Telescopes

The next generation of astronomical radio telescopes will have the possibility of generating multiple beams on sky, unlike existing single beam systems. This can occur as the problem of obtaining sufficient sensitivity has been simplified by distributing the collecting area over a hierarchy of collecting elements. Technology, in the form of computing power, can take advantage of this hierarchy to form efficient multiple simultaneous beams on the sky. The theoretical foundation of the multi-beam beamformer is introduced in this paper and simulation results presented. The technique is based on the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) which results in an efficient implementation. The twiddle factors of the FFT reduce to simple 90AE rotations in the case of a four point FFT. The resulting design for THEA is shown to produce nine simultaneous beams and can be implemented on a relatively small FPGA. Additional phase control is required to steer the beams across the sky and implemented using complex multipliers. It will be shown that for particular array sizes the implementation results in nine beams for the cost of one.
Does Public and Private Religiosity Have a Moderating Effect on Depression? a Bi-Racial Study of Elders in the American South

Religious activities are shown to correlate with rates of psychological depression symptoms in a sample of 995 African American and white elderly residents of Nashville. The data, collected in face-to-face interviews, included indicators of both public and private religiosity. Levels of religiosity and perceived social support were higher among the African-American respondents than among others, and among female respondents. Separate regression analyses of the racial groupings, which appeared to have distinctive religious subcultures, generally show that perceptions of social support mediate the relationship between levels of religiosity and symptoms of depression.
The impact of cooperative learning on student engagement: Results from an intervention

With an increasing awareness that many undergraduates are passive during teaching sessions, calls for instructional methods that allow students to become actively engaged have increased. Cooperative learning has long been popular at the primary and secondary level and, within recent years, higher education. However, empirical evidence of the impact of cooperative learning at the university level is still limited. This study reports the result of a quasi-experimental real-life intervention with cooperative learning in an undergraduate course. In-class participation and student approaches to learning were measured before and after the intervention to assess the impact on 140 students’ engagement levels. In addition, open-ended comments were analysed, revealing what faculty adopting cooperative learning principles in higher education should be especially aware of.
Estimation of Environmental Lighting from Known Geometries for Mobile Augmented Reality

Light source estimation and virtual lighting must be believable in terms of appearance and correctness in augmented reality scenes. As a result of illumination complexity in an outdoor scene, realistic lighting for augmented reality is still a challenging problem. In this paper, we propose a framework based on an estimation of environmental lighting from well-defined objects, specifically human faces. The method is tuned for outdoor use, and the algorithm is further enhanced to illuminate virtual objects exposed to direct sunlight. Our model can be integrated into existing mobile augmented reality frameworks to enhance visual perception.
In vivo SiRNA transfection and gene knockdown in spinal cord via rapid noninvasive lumbar intrathecal injections in mice.

This report describes a step-by-step guide to the technique of acute intrathecal needle injections in a noninvasive manner, i.e. independent of catheter implantation. The technical limitation of this surgical technique lies in the finesse of the hands. The injection is rapid, especially for a trained experimenter, and since tissue disruption with this technique is minimal, repeated injections are possible; moreover immune reaction to foreign tools (e.g. catheter) does not occur, thereby giving a better and more specific read out of spinal cord modulation. Since the application of the substance is largely limited to the target region of the spinal cord, drugs do not need to be applied in large dosages, and more importantly unwanted effects on other tissue, as observed with a systemic delivery, could be circumvented(1,2). Moreover, we combine this technique with in vivo transfection of nucleic acid with the help of polyethylenimine (PEI) reagent(3), which provides tremendous versatility for studying spinal functions via delivery of pharmacological agents as well as gene, RNA, and protein modulators.
A tentative consensus-based model for priority setting: An example from elderly patients with myocardial infarction and multi-morbidity

Background: In most Western countries the growing gap between available resources and greater potential for medical treatment has brought evidence-based guidelines into focus. However, such guidelines are difficult to use when the evidence base is weak. Priority setting for frail elderly patients with heart disease illustrates this problem. We have outlined a tentative model for priority setting regarding frail elderly heart patients. The model takes cardiovascular risk, frailty, and comorbidity into account. Objective: Our aim is to validate the model’s components. We want to evaluate the inter-rater reliability of the study experts’ rankings regarding each of the model’s categories. Methods: A confidential questionnaire study consisting of 15 authentic and validated cases was conducted to assess the views of purposefully selected cardiology experts (n = 58). They were asked to rank the cases regarding the need for coronary angiography using their individual clinical experience. The response rate was 71%. Responses were analysed with frequencies and descriptive statistics. The inter-rater reliability regarding the experts’ rankings of the cases was estimated via an intra-class correlation test (ICC). Results: The cardiologists considered the clinical cases to be realistic. The intra-class correlation (two-way random, consistency, average measure) was 0.978 (95% CI 0.958—0.991), which denotes a very good inter-rater reliability on the group level. The model’s components were considered relevant regarding complex cases of non-ST elevation myocardial infarction. Comorbidity was considered to be the most relevant component, frailty the second most relevant, followed by cardiovascular risk. Conclusions: A framework taking comorbidity, frailty, and cardiovascular risk into account could constitute a foundation for consensus-based guidelines for frail elderly heart patients. From a priority setting perspective, it is reasonable to believe that the framework is applicable to other groups of elderly patients with acute disease and complex needs.
Efficient User Selection and Ordering Algorithms for Successive Zero-Forcing Precoding for Multiuser MIMO Downlink

In this paper we consider user scheduling problem for linearly preceded multiuser multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) downlink, where base station as well as the mobile receivers are equipped with multiple antennas. Optimal precoding involves dirty paper coding (DPC) technique, and it is highly nonlinear and complex. On the other hand, complete inter-user interference cancellation using linear zero-forcing or block diagonalization precoding are suboptimal. Hence, we consider successive zero-forcing precoding, which achieves improved system throughput compared to block diagonalization by allowing users to work under limited interference. Due to the dimensionality constraint of linear precoding techniques user scheduling is required. The optimal user scheduling involves exhaustive search, which becomes very complex for realistic numbers of users and transmit antennas. In addition, for successive zero-forcing precoding the order in which users are precoded successively is important for sum rate maximization, which further increases the complexity of exhaustive search. In this paper we develop a low complexity greedy user scheduling algorithm for successive zero-forcing precoding, which incorporates various user ordering techniques. Simplified heuristic scheduling metrics are proposed, which are shown to perform close to the exhaustive search method. A suboptimal user ordering technique that is similar to the order, in which the proposed greedy user selection selects users, is proposed. Further simplification of regular greedy scheduling algorithm is obtained with the proposed intermediate user grouping technique. The proposed algorithm is of low complexity, but provides performance close to the highly complex exhaustive search algorithm.
Redetermined crystal structure of N-(β-carboxyethyl)-α-isoleucine

Redetermination of the crystal structure of N-(β-carboxyethyl)-α-isoleucine, C9H18N2O3, reported earlier by Nehls et al. [Acta Cryst. (2013), E69, o172–o173], was undertaken in which the ionization state assigned to the molecule as unionized has been modified as zwitterionic in the present work. Single-crystal X-ray intensity data obtained from freshly grown crystals and freely refining the amino H atoms provide enhanced refinement and structural parameters, particularly the hydrogen-bonding scheme. N—H⋯O hydrogen bonds dominate the intermolecular interactions along with a C—H⋯O hydrogen bond. The intermolecular interaction pattern is a three-dimensional network. The structure was refined as a two-component perfect inversion twin.
A Comparison of In-hospital Mortality Risk Conferred by High Hospital Occupancy, Differences in Nurse Staffing Levels, Weekend Admission, and Seasonal Influenza

Background:Hospital occupancy, nurse staffing levels, weekend admission, and seasonal influenza have all been shown to be associated with in-hospital mortality. Yet, no study has simultaneously compared the strength of associations of these 4 factors with in-hospital mortality. Objective:To compare the risk of in-hospital mortality conferred by high hospital occupancy on admission, increased nurse staffing levels, weekend admission, and seasonal influenza. Study Design:Retrospective cohort study of 166,920 patients admitted to 39 Michigan hospitals between 2003 and 2006. Participants were adults, age ≥65 years, admitted through the emergency department with 6 common discharge diagnoses (acute myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, stroke, pneumonia, hip fracture, gastrointestinal bleeding). We used logistic regression to compare the differences in the predicted probability of death conferred by each of the 4 factors, controlling for patient age, gender, discharge diagnosis, and comorbid conditions. Results:Each of the 4 factors had a statistically significant, independent association with in-hospital mortality. Seasonal influenza conferred the greatest increase in absolute risk of in-hospital mortality (0.5 percentage points; 95% CI, 0.23–0.76), followed by weekend admission (0.32, 0.11–0.54), and high hospital occupancy on admission (0.24, 0.06–0.43). Increased nurse staffing levels decreased the absolute risk of mortality by 0.25 percentage points (0.04–0.48) for each additional full-time equivalent nurse per patient-day. Conclusion:Hospital occupancy, nurse staffing levels, weekend admission, and seasonal influenza all appear to be independently associated with in-hospital mortality, but to varying degrees in the current sample. These findings may guide hospital administrators as they consider factors that influence weekly and seasonal patient flow and capacity, as well as staffing.
The Feasibility of Interference Alignment for Full-Duplex MIMO Cellular Networks

The feasibility condition of interference alignment (IA) for full-duplex (FD) multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) cellular networks is considered. A necessary condition and a sufficient condition on the IA feasibility are established, characterizing the optimal sum degrees of freedom (DoF) for a broad class of network topologies. The necessary and sufficient condition is shown specially for a class of symmetric network topologies. The results demonstrate that FD operation at the base station with appropriate IA is able to improve the sum DoF than the conventional half-duplex operation.
COUP-TFI controls Notch regulation of hair cell and support cell differentiation

The orphan nuclear receptor COUP-TFI (Nr2f1) regulates many aspects of mammalian development, but little is known about its role in cochlear hair cell and Deiter's support cell development. The COUP-TFI knockout (COUP-TFI-/-) has a significant increase in hair cell (HC) number in the mid-to-apical turns. The total number of hair cells is not increased over wild type, perhaps because of displaced hair cells and a shortened cochlear duct. This implicates a defect of convergent-extension in the COUP-TFI-/- duct. In addition, excess proliferation in the COUP-TFI-/- sensory epithelium indicates that the origin of the extra HCs in the apex is complex. Because loss-of-function studies of Notch signaling components have similar phenotypes, we investigated Notch regulation of hair cell differentiation in COUP-TFI-/- mice and confirmed misregulation of Notch signaling components, including Jag1, Hes5 and in a manner consistent with reduced Notch signaling, and correlated with increases in hair cell and support cell differentiation. The disruption of Notch signaling by a γ-secretase inhibitor in an in vitro organ culture system of wild-type cochleae resulted in a reduction in expression of the Notch target gene Hes5 and an increase in hair cell differentiation. Importantly, inhibition of Notch activity resulted in a greater increase in hair cell differentiation in COUP-TFI-/- cochlear cultures than in wild-type cultures, suggesting a hypersensitivity to Notch inactivation in COUP-TFI-/- cochlea, particularly at the apical turn. Thus, we present evidence that reduced Notch signaling contributes to increases in hair cell and support cell differentiation in COUP-TFI-/- mice, and suggest that COUP-TFI is required for Notch regulation of hair cell and support cell differentiation.
Output Regulation of Polynomial-Fuzzy-Model-Based Control Systems

This paper investigates the output regulation problem of polynomial-fuzzy-model-based (PFMB) control systems with the consideration of system stability and control synthesis using the sum-of-squares (SOS)-based approach. A PFMB control system is formed by a polynomial fuzzy model and a polynomial fuzzy controller with integral action connected in a closed loop. Three cases of PFMB control systems regarding the premise membership functions and number of fuzzy rules, which have their own properties and advantages, are considered. The stability of the PFMB control systems is investigated based on the Lyapunov stability theory. With consideration of the information of membership functions, SOS-based stability conditions corresponding to each case are obtained to guarantee system stability and to realize output regulation. Simulation examples are given to compare the three cases and illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Minimizing Task-Space Fréchet Error via Efficient Incremental Graph Search

We present an anytime algorithm that generates a collision-free configuration-space path that closely follows a desired path in task space, according to the discrete Fréchet distance. By leveraging tools from computational geometry, we approximate the search space using a cross-product graph. We use a variant of Dijkstra's graph-search algorithm to efficiently search for and iteratively improve the solution. We compare multiple proposed densification strategies and empirically show that our algorithm outperforms a set of state-of-the-art planners on a range of manipulation problems. Finally, we offer a proof sketch of the asymptotic optimality of our algorithm.
Ecological Energetic Perspectives on Responses of Nitrogen-Transforming Chemolithoautotrophic Microbiota to Changes in the Marine Environment

Transformation and mobilization of bioessential elements in the biosphere, lithosphere, atmosphere, and hydrosphere constitute the Earth’s biogeochemical cycles, which are driven mainly by microorganisms through their energy and material metabolic processes. Without microbial energy harvesting from sources of light and inorganic chemical bonds for autotrophic fixation of inorganic carbon, there would not be sustainable ecosystems in the vast ocean. Although ecological energetics (eco-energetics) has been emphasized as a core aspect of ecosystem analyses and microorganisms largely control the flow of matter and energy in marine ecosystems, marine microbial communities are rarely studied from the eco-energetic perspective. The diverse bioenergetic pathways and eco-energetic strategies of the microorganisms are essentially the outcome of biosphere-geosphere interactions over evolutionary times. The biogeochemical cycles are intimately interconnected with energy fluxes across the biosphere and the capacity of the ocean to fix inorganic carbon is generally constrained by the availability of nutrients and energy. The understanding of how microbial eco-energetic processes influence the structure and function of marine ecosystems and how they interact with the changing environment is thus fundamental to a mechanistic and predictive understanding of the marine carbon and nitrogen cycles and the trends in global change. By using major groups of chemolithoautotrophic microorganisms that participate in the marine nitrogen cycle as examples, this article examines their eco-energetic strategies, contributions to carbon cycling, and putative responses to and impacts on the various global change processes associated with global warming, ocean acidification, eutrophication, deoxygenation, and pollution. We conclude that knowledge gaps remain despite decades of tremendous research efforts. The advent of new techniques may bring the dawn to scientific breakthroughs that necessitate the multidisciplinary combination of eco-energetic, biogeochemical and “omics” studies in this field.