Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Involvement in Specific HIV Risk Practices among Men Who Use the Internet to Find Male Partners for Unprotected Sex

Purpose. Men who have sex with other men (MSM) account for more than one-half of all new HIV infections in the USA. This study reports on the prevalence of a variety of HIV risk behaviors in one specific subpopulation of risk-seeking MSM. Methods. The study was based on a national sample of 332 MSM who use the Internet to find partners for unprotected sex. Data collection was conducted via telephone interviews between January 2008 and May 2009. Results. Unprotected oral and anal sex was commonplace among study participants. Men engaged in a large number of other risky behaviors as well, including having had multiple recent sex partners (mean number = 11), simultaneous double-penile penetration of the anus (16%), eating semen out of another man's anus (17%), engaging in multiple-partner sexual encounters (47%), engaging in anonymous sex (51%), and having sex while “under the influence” (52%). Conclusions. HIV intervention and prevention programs need to address numerous behaviors that place MSM at risk for contracting/transmitting HIV. Merely focusing on unprotected anal sex does a disservice to members of this community, who typically engage in many types of behavioral risks, each of which requires addressing if HIV transmission rates are to be reduced.
A novel approach to the extraction of multiple salient objects in an image

This paper describes a novel approach for extraction of multiple objects from a given image of a natural scene. In the proposed approach, multiple objects are extracted by the application of saliency detection on the image. We use two distinct approaches for object extraction. One approach uses superpixels on the saliency map. Then the intensity of saliency map in each superpixel is used to compute distance between the centres of superpixels. These act as constraints to extract the objects from the image. The other approach is the application of Active Contour model on the saliency map and estimating a bounding box on the intermediate binary image result extracts the objects in the image. The approach is unique in its way of extracting objects from a scene containing multiple objects as it does not use extensive image search like the existing algorithms and therefore leads to a fast and simple extraction.
Facilitating interactive search and navigation in videos

We present a tool that can efficiently facilitate interactive navigation and search in videos. In addition to browsing a video by shots it also allows a user to navigate through a video with extended seeker bars showing time-related content abstractions. Users having a rough knowledge about the content characteristics of scenes to be found can efficiently use these extended seeker bars to quickly find these scenes by interactive navigation. Moreover, users can easily perform similarity queries by utilizing content knowledge that has been gained during the browsing/navigation process. These queries can also be stored and reused for search in other videos having similar/same content. Furthermore, the tool can execute many queries at once and visualize the results as semantic events in a different seeker bar. Our tool provides a real alternative for situations where a user currently needs to employ a common video player for the task of search and navigation.
Analytical Review of Test Redundancy Detection Techniques

paper presents an analytical review of approaches used by different authors. Coverage information is very important for finding redundancy in test cases. Test redundancy detection reduces the costs of testing and maintenance of software. A redundant test case is a useless part of test suite and it increases the testing cost and test suite size. There are a lot of works that proposed different approaches for test case redundancy detection. Some effective approaches have analysed and this study is very useful for future work in this direction. Some important factors like false positive error, fault detection effectiveness etc. have discussed. Keyword: Test case redundancy, test minimization, false positive error, fault detection effectiveness, coverage information.
Design of CMOS resonating push-push frequency doubler

This paper concerns maximizing the conversion gain of a CMOS push-push doubler, in which the drains of a pair of differentially driven MOSFETs are tied together. We propose to insert transmission lines, which act as resonators at the fundamental frequency, between the drains of the MOSFETs. In the simulation of the proposed circuit, it achieved an output power improvement of 2.2 dB at the 0 dBm input power.
Optimal Design of a RISE Feedback Controller for a 3-DOF Robot Manipulator Using Particle Swarm Optimization

This paper presents an application of recently proposed robust integral of the sign of the error (RISE) feedback control scheme for a three degrees-of-freedom (DOF) robot manipulator tracking problem. This method compensates for nonlinear disturbances and uncertainties in the dynamic model, and results in asymptotic trajectory tracking. To avoid selecting parameters of the RISE controller by time-consuming trial and error method, particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is employed. The objective of the PSO algorithm is to find a set of parameters that minimizes the mean of root squared error as the fitness function. The proposed method attains tracking goal, without any chattering in control input. Indeed, the existence of a unique integral sign term in the RISE controller avoids the occurrence of chattering phenomenon that usually happens in sliding mode controllers. Numerical simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme. Index Terms—Robust integral of the sign of the error (RISE), Asymptotic tracking, 3degrees-of-freedom robot manipulator, particle swarm optimization (PSO)
Psychological Parameters of Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms such as headaches and back pains affect everyone from time to time. The present report addresses the nature of symptoms themselves and the psychological processes affecting their occurrence. The first section of the paper will present background information on the symptom-reporting process-- e.g., general frequency of symptom-reporting in a healthy population, relationships among various symptoms, correlations between symptom- reports and actual somatic change. Psychological factors that affect symptom-reporting are then analyzed, including the roles of attention to body and sets for interpreting body states. Increases in reported intensity of a variety of symptoms occur when attention is focused on the body and when individuals interpret body states in a negative fashion. The relationship between physical symptoms and moods is discussed, and several proposals for future work are presented.
Underdetermined Convolutive Blind Source Separation via Time–Frequency Masking

In this paper, we consider the problem of separation of unknown number of sources from their underdetermined convolutive mixtures via time-frequency (TF) masking. We propose two algorithms, one for the estimation of the masks which are to be applied to the mixture in the TF domain for the separation of signals in the frequency domain, and the other for solving the permutation problem. The algorithm for mask estimation is based on the concept of angles in complex vector space. Unlike the previously reported methods, the algorithm does not require any estimation of the mixing matrix or the source positions for mask estimation. The algorithm clusters the mixture samples in the TF domain based on the Hermitian angle between the sample vector and a reference vector using the well known k -means or fuzzy c -means clustering algorithms. The membership functions so obtained from the clustering algorithms are directly used as the masks. The algorithm for solving the permutation problem clusters the estimated masks by using k-means clustering of small groups of nearby masks with overlap. The effectiveness of the algorithm in separating the sources, including collinear sources, from their underdetermined convolutive mixtures obtained in a real room environment, is demonstrated.
Two AGAMOUS‐like MADS‐box genes from Taihangia rupestris (Rosaceae) reveal independent trajectories in the evolution of class C and class D floral homeotic functions

SUMMARY Duplicate genes may be retained by sub‐ and/or neofunctionalization through changes in gene expression and/or coding sequence, and therefore have the potential to contribute to the genetic robustness and diversification of an organism. In this study, two MADS‐box genes were isolated from Taihangia rupestris, a core eudicot species belonging to the Rosaceae. Sequence and phylogenetic analyses revealed that they are clade members of the euAG and PLE lineages, respectively, and hence the two genes are named TrAG (Taihangia rupestris AGAMOUS) and TrSHP (Taihangia rupestris SHATTERPROOF). Southern blot analysis shows that TrSHP is a single‐copy gene in the T. rupestris genome. In situ hybridization analyses show that both TrAG and TrSHP are mainly expressed in the stamens, carpels, and ovules. When the stamen primordia are firstly observed, TrAG is initially expressed in the floral meristem domain that will initiate stamens and carpels. In contrast, no TrSHP signal is observed at this developmental stage. At late stages of carpel development, TrAG expression is detected in the ovules, ovaries, and developing styles and stigmas, whereas TrSHP expression is tightly restricted to the ovules. The transgenic Arabidopsis plants containing 35S::TrAG and 35S::TrSHP, respectively, showed similar phenotypes, including homeotic conversions of sepals into carpelloid structures bearing ovules and petals into staminoid organs, and the fruits shattering prematurely along the dehiscence zone. In addition, the phenotype of the transgenic 35S::TrSHP Arabidopsis plants revealed that perianth abscission was inhibited. Yeast two‐hybrid assays indicated that TrAG can interact with TrSEP3, whereas TrSHP cannot. The data suggest that the euAG and PLE paralogs, TrAG and TrSHP, may have subfunctionalized and/or neofunctionalized through changes in expression patterns and accumulating variations in the coding regions. Taking these findings together with those available expression and functional data from Arabidopsis and other species, we conclude that the compensatory ways vary among the euAG and PLE lineage pairs in eudicot species.
Differential neuroglycan C expression during retinal degeneration in Rpe65−/− mice

Purpose An increased mRNA expression of the genes coding for the extracellular matrix proteins neuroglycan C (NGC), interphotoreceptor matrix proteoglycan 2 (IMPG2), and CD44 antigen (CD44) has been observed during retinal degeneration in mice with a targeted disruption of the Rpe65 gene (Rpe65−/− mouse). To validate these data, we analyzed this differential expression in more detail by characterizing retinal NGC mRNA isoform and protein expression during disease progression. Methods Retinas from C57/Bl6 wild-type and Rpe65−/− mice, ranging 2 to 18 months of age, were used. NGC, IMPG2, and CD44 mRNA expression was assessed by oligonucleotide microarray, quantitative PCR, and in situ hybridization. Retinal NGC protein expression was analyzed by western blot and immunohistochemistry. Results As measured by quantitative PCR, mRNA expression of NGC and CD44 was induced by about 2 fold to 3 fold at all time points in Rpe65−/− retinas, whereas initially 4 fold elevated IMPG2 mRNA levels progressively declined. NGC and IMPG2 mRNAs were expressed in the ganglion cell layer, the inner nuclear layer, and at the outer limiting membrane. NGC mRNA was also detected in retinal pigment epithelium cells (RPE), where its mRNA expression was not induced during retinal degeneration. NGC-I was the major isoform detected in the retina and the RPE, whereas NGC-III was barely detected and NGC-II could not be assessed. NGC protein expression was at its highest levels on the apical membrane of the RPE. NGC protein levels were induced in retinas from 2- and 4-month-old Rpe65−/− mice, and an increased amount of the activity-cleaved NGC ectodomain containing an epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domain was detected. Conclusions During retinal degeneration in Rpe65−/− mice, NGC expression is induced in the neural retina, but not in the RPE, where NGC is expressed at highest levels.
Multiple versus single antipsychotic agents for hospitalized psychiatric patients: case-control study of risks versus benefits.

OBJECTIVE Since use of multiple drugs to treat psychiatric patients is increasing, and research on this practice is rare, the authors carried out a retrospective case-control study of multiple versus single antipsychotic treatment in psychiatric inpatients. METHOD Inpatient treatment groups receiving either antipsychotic monotherapy or polytherapy were matched in terms of age, sex, diagnostic category, and admission clinical ratings (Global Assessment of Functioning [GAF] and Clinical Global Impression [CGI]), which yielded 70 subject pairs. They were compared in terms of total chlorpromazine-equivalent daily dose, changes in total daily dose, length of hospitalization, incidence of adverse effects, and changes in clinical ratings (CGI, GAF, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale score) between admission and discharge. RESULTS Initial doses were closely similar at admission for both treatment groups, but the median total final antipsychotic dose was 78% higher for those receiving antipsychotic polytherapy versus monotherapy. Also, median length of stay in the hospital was 55% (8.5 days) longer, and risk of adverse effects was 56% higher with polytherapy, whereas clinical improvement scores were similar (within 11%) for both treatments. CONCLUSIONS Short-term treatment with multiple antipsychotics was associated with major increases in drug exposure, adverse events, and time in the hospital but with no apparent gain in clinical benefit. These findings require further testing in controlled prospective studies.
Cerebrovascular pathophysiology following mild traumatic brain injury

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) or sport‐induced concussion has recently become a prominent concern not only in the athletic setting (i.e. sports venue) but also in the general population. The majority of research to date has aimed at understanding the neurological and neuropsychological outcomes of injury as well as return‐to‐play guidelines. Remaining relatively unexamined has been the pathophysiological aspect of mTBI. Recent technological advances including transcranial Doppler ultrasound and near infrared spectroscopy have allowed researchers to examine the systemic effects of mTBI from rest to exercise, and during both asymptomatic and symptomatic conditions. In this review, we focus on the current research available from both human and experimental (animal) studies surrounding the pathophysiology of mTBI. First, the quest for a unified definition of mTBI, its historical development and implications for future research is discussed. Finally, the impact of mTBI on the control and regulation of cerebral blood flow, cerebrovascular reactivity, cerebral oxygenation and neuroautonomic cardiovascular regulation, all of which may be compromised with mTBI, is discussed.
Neural crest and cardiovascular development: a 20-year perspective.

BACKGROUND Twenty years ago this year was the first publication describing a region of neural crest cells necessary for normal cardiovascular development. Ablation of this region in chick resulted in persistent truncus arteriosus, mispatterning of the great vessels, outflow malalignments, and hypoplasia or aplasia of the pharyngeal glands. METHODS We begin with a historical perspective and then review the progress that has been made in the ensuing 20 years in determining the direct and indirect contributions of the neural crest cells, now termed cardiac neural crest cells, in cardiovascular and pharyngeal arch development. Many of the molecular pathways that are now known to influence the specification, migration, patterning and final targeting of the cardiac neural crest cells are also reviewed. RESULTS Although much knowledge has been gained by using many genetic manipulations to understand the cardiac neural crest cells' role in cardiovascular development, most models fail to explain the phenotypes seen in syndromic and non-syndromic human congenital heart defects, such as the DiGeorge syndrome. CONCLUSIONS We propose that the cardiac neural crest exists as part of a larger cardiocraniofacial morphogenetic field and describe several human syndromes that result from abnormal development of this field.
Efficiency competition on N-queen problem: DE vs. CMA-ES

In this paper, two well-known evolutionary algorithms, namely, differential evolution (DE) and covariance matrix adaptation evolution strategy (CMA-ES), are compared on solving N-queen problem (a classical combinatorial optimization problem). Convergence velocity and robustness are our main measures in the current comparative study. Experiments are conducted on twelve chessboard dimensions. Results confirm that CMA-ES performs better than DE with respect to success rate and also success performance. Details about the N-queen problem, comparison strategies, metrics, and results are provided.
The validity and reliability of the exercise benefits/barriers scale for Turkish Military nursing students

This study aims to test the validity and reliability of the Exercise Benefits/Barriers Scale (EBBS) for female university students in Turkey. This is a validity and reliability study of the EBBS for use in a Turkish context. The study sample consisted of 409 students of a School of Nursing (97.1% of the total student body). In the study, a three-part questionnaire was used. The EBBS, developed by Sechrist (Sechrist et al., 1987), was used in the study in order to determine the participants’ benefitbarrier perceptions. The EBBS validity coefficient was found to be 0.87 (re-test =0.85) for the whole scale, 0.95 (re-test=0.94) for the benefit aspect and, 0.80 (retest= 0.79) for the barrier aspect. “Physical performance” and “preventive health” were given the highest scores by the participants within the EBBS’s benefit subscales. The exercise barrier subscale with the lowest score was “exercise milieu”. Determining the benefits of and barriers to exercise, by using a standardized scale, plays an important role in maintaining proper levels of physical activity. The Turkish translation of the EBBS model has shown it to be an effective tool for measuring physical activity among female Turkish university students. Key words: Adolescent health; Exercise; Health behaviours; Physical activity.
Globalization, reflexivity, and the project of the self: a virtual intercultural learning process

In this paper, the authors examine the consumption practices of young adult Iranians in the context of cultural globalization. Based on the analysis of qualitative data collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and focus groups with 28 individuals in Tehran and Karaj, the authors demonstrate how, through its cultural flow (circulation of images, signs, products, etc.) globalization stimulates reflexivity in “an ongoing process of virtual intercultural learning” through which people reconstitute their lives and change their everyday consumption practices and lifestyle choices. The key contribution of the study lies in the fact that it examines consumers’ subjective consumption experiences in a society where the traditional/institutional dynamics enforce their own values and ideal lifestyles on individuals.
Task in HCI research in the management information systems (MIS) literature : A critical survey

Tasks and task analysis play an important role in broad Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) research, based on the view that users utilize technologies to support their primary tasks. Several models and heuristics are developed for task analysis for HCI design. Yet tasks and task analysis have received relatively little attention in the MIS literature that primarily considers IT use and impact on individuals, groups, and organizations. This can be a problem considering the taskartifact cycle, where the use and impact of IT on tasks should feed back into the next round of IT design. This study examines MIS studies that focus on humans interacting with IT at individual and group levels where tasks are part of the research interest. Our objective is to gain a better understanding of the types, the characteristics, and the roles of tasks in the MIS literature.
BEARR: Batch Extraction and Analysis of cis-Regulatory Regions

Transcription factors play important roles in regulating biological and disease processes. Microarray technology has enabled researchers to simultaneously monitor changes in the expression of thousands of transcripts. By identifying specific transcription factor binding sites in the cis-regulatory regions of differentially expressed genes, it is then possible to identify direct targets of transcription factors, model transcriptional regulatory networks and mine the dataset for relevant targets for experimental and clinical manipulation. We have developed web-based software to assist biologists in efficiently carrying out the analysis of microarray data from studies of specific transcription factors. Batch Extraction and Analysis of cis-Regulatory Regions, or BEARR, accepts gene identifier lists from microarray data analysis tools and facilitates identification, extraction and analysis of regulatory regions from the large amount of data that is typically generated in these types of studies. The software is publicly available at http://giscompute.gis. a-star.edu. sg/~vega/BEARR1.0/.
A novel speech-processing strategy incorporating tonal information for cochlear implants

Good performance in cochlear implant users depends in large part on the ability of a speech processor to effectively decompose speech signals into multiple channels of narrow-band electrical pulses for stimulation of the auditory nerve. Speech processors that extract only envelopes of the narrow-band signals (e.g., the continuous interleaved sampling (CIS) processor) may not provide sufficient information to encode the tonal cues in languages such as Chinese. To improve the performance in cochlear implant users who speak tonal language, we proposed and developed a novel speech-processing strategy, which extracted both the envelopes of the narrow-band signals and the fundamental frequency (F/sub 0/) of the speech signal, and used them to modulate both the amplitude and the frequency of the electrical pulses delivered to stimulation electrodes. We developed an algorithm to extract the fundamental frequency and identified the general patterns of pitch variations of four typical tones in Chinese speech. The effectiveness of the extraction algorithm was verified with an artificial neural network that recognized the tonal patterns from the extracted F/sub 0/ information. We then compared the novel strategy with the envelope-extraction CIS strategy in human subjects with normal hearing. The novel strategy produced significant improvement in perception of Chinese tones, phrases, and sentences. This novel processor with dynamic modulation of both frequency and amplitude is encouraging for the design of a cochlear implant device for sensorineurally deaf patients who speak tonal languages.