Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Design Fiction: How to Build a Voight-Kampff Machine

Tyrell: Is this to be an empathy test? Capillary dilation of the so-called blush response? Fluctuation of the pupil. Involuntary dilation of the iris. Deckard: We call it Voight-Kampff for short. Design fiction is a broad term that occupies a space within the wider miscellany of speculative design approaches and is appearing as a nascent method for HCI research. The factor that differentiates and distinguishes design fiction from other approaches is its novel use of world building and in this paper we consider whether there is value in creating fictional research worlds through which we might consider future interactions. As an example we build a world in which algorithms for detecting empathy will become a major compnent of future communications. We take inspiration from the sci-fi film Blade Runner in order to consider what a plausible world, in which it is useful to build a Voight-Kampff machine, might be like.
Microstrip Patch Antennas for Broadband Indoor Wireless Systems PROJECT – 11

The advantages of microstrip antennas have made them a perfect candidate for use in the wireless local area network (WLAN) applications. Though bound by certain disadvantages, microstrip patch antennas can be tailored so they can be used in the new high-speed broadband WLAN systems. This project concentrates on manufacture of broadband microstrip patch antennas for the 2.45 GHz ISM band and possible implementation using adhesive copper tape in research scenarios. In the course of the project, two broadband microstrip patch antennas were manufactured to adequately cover the 2.42. 5 GHz frequency band. A test procedure was also devised to compare the area coverage mappings, in term of path loss, of the in-house built antennas to the commercial broadband antennas. The testing show, the in-house antennas demonstrate larger bandwidth response compared to the commercial product but commercial product has a larger beamwidth and illustrate a better coverage. ORIGINALITY DECLARATION This report is my own unaided work and was not copied from or written in collaboration with any other person.
Predicting functional sites in biological sequences using canonical correlation analysis

Protein functional site prediction plays a key role in understanding protein function and in protein engineering. In this work we developed a novel method using canonical correlation analysis to predict protein ligand binding sites. The method was tested with a well-known benchmark dataset and consistently outperformed the existing method Xdet, which is based on Pearson correlation, by improving the lowest and highest ranked positives for more than 18% and 22% respectively.
Stratified Voxel-Based Morphometry ( sVBM )

In neuroimaging, voxel based morphometry (VBM) has been a valuable tool of identifying brain-wide differences between populations. One of the key elements of VBM is to define a space for voxelwise comparisons. However, errors in this mapping to common space and variations of brain morphology, both natural and pathologic can result in false positives. In this work we explore a new framework, where a spatially varying morphological similarity graph is created between pairs of images. This graph is then used to stratify natural and pathological variability in a VBM-like setting. In contrast to VBM, which describes the group differences on an average brain morphology, sVBM describes how different brain morphologies are independently affected by pathology. Due to its pairwise nature, this technique provides smoother and better localised differences between populations, possibly providing novel insights into the homogeneity of pathological effects for different brain morphologies.
Highly Increased Maspin Expression Corresponds With Up-Regulation of miR-21 in Endometrial Cancer: A Preliminary Report

Background: Maspin and programmed cell death 4 (Pdcd4) are tumor suppressor genes, and miR-21 is overexpressed in many solid tumors and was proven to negatively regulate a number of tumor suppressor genes including maspin and Pdcd4. The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression of maspin, Pdcd4, and miR-21 and their interrelations with clinicopathologic features in endometrial cancer using a quantitative approach. Methods: Maspin, Pdcd4, and miR-21 expressions were evaluated by a real-time polymerase chain reaction in 20 endometrial cancer and 10 normal endometrium samples. Results: Maspin showed a significantly increased expression in endometrial cancer samples compared with the control group and was up-regulated by a mean factor of 46.54 (SE range, 2.367-1160.26; 95% confidence interval, 0.515-15001, P < 0.0001). Expression of miR-21 was found significantly up-regulated in the sample group in comparison to control group by a mean factor of 2.312 (SE range, 0.741-7.778; 95% confidence interval 0.191-15.0, P = 0.028). No significant differences were present in the expression level of Pdcd4 between endometrial cancer and control groups. Comparison between IA and more advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stages of endometrial cancer in regard to expression levels of maspin, Pdcd4, and miR-21 did not reveal any significant differences. Similarly, no differences were encountered when histopathologic grading, myometrial invasion, age, body mass index, and parity were taken into consideration. Conclusions: Association between increased maspin expression and up-regulation of miR-21 in endometrial cancer suggests distinct and tissue-specific relationships of the 2 molecules in this type of malignancy and requires further studies that would reveal its clinical relevance.
On Learning Navigation Behaviors for Small Mobile Robots With Reservoir Computing Architectures

This paper proposes a general reservoir computing (RC) learning framework that can be used to learn navigation behaviors for mobile robots in simple and complex unknown partially observable environments. RC provides an efficient way to train recurrent neural networks by letting the recurrent part of the network (called reservoir) be fixed while only a linear readout output layer is trained. The proposed RC framework builds upon the notion of navigation attractor or behavior that can be embedded in the high-dimensional space of the reservoir after learning. The learning of multiple behaviors is possible because the dynamic robot behavior, consisting of a sensory-motor sequence, can be linearly discriminated in the high-dimensional nonlinear space of the dynamic reservoir. Three learning approaches for navigation behaviors are shown in this paper. The first approach learns multiple behaviors based on the examples of navigation behaviors generated by a supervisor, while the second approach learns goal-directed navigation behaviors based only on rewards. The third approach learns complex goal-directed behaviors, in a supervised way, using a hierarchical architecture whose internal predictions of contextual switches guide the sequence of basic navigation behaviors toward the goal.
What are the views and experiences of key stakeholders regarding inclusion into secondary phase schooling for pupils with an ASD

The research question addressed by the study is; "What are the views and experiences of key stakeholders regarding inclusion into secondary phase schooling for pupils with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? " The pupils were identified as meeting the focus Local Authority criteria for admission to a specialist provision for ASD, six pupils in total. All pupils were in Year 6 at the start of the study, May 2008, and moved to secondary phase schooling in September 2008. All had a Statement of Special Educational Need (under section 324 of the Education Act 1996). Three pupils transferred to the specialist ASD provision, two transferred to a Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision and one transferred to a school with no specialist provision. Qualitative methodology was used to collect views and experiences during transition: semi-structured interviews with parents and pupils, focus groups with school staff. A visual framework using symbols (Talking Mats) supported the difficulties pupils had with social communication during their interviews. Data was collected at two time points, in the summer of 2008 prior to the pupil's transition and again in the winter of 2008 following their first term at secondary school. All interviews were recorded and transcribed. Data was analysed using a form of thematic analysis to elicit common categories and themes. Seven themes emerged at Time 1 and a further six at Time 2. Two key points were identified: 1. five pupils transferring to mainstream schools where additional support was provided appeared to have a more positive transition experience than the pupil transferring to a school with no additional support 2. The findings from the study relating to areas of concern and difficulty during transition for pupils with an ASD were consistent with those reported in the transition literature relating to typical pupils and those with other Special Educational Needs.
Hox and ParaHox gene expression in early body plan patterning of polyplacophoran mollusks

ABSTRACT Molecular developmental studies of various bilaterians have shown that the identity of the anteroposterior body axis is controlled by Hox and ParaHox genes. Detailed Hox and ParaHox gene expression data are available for conchiferan mollusks, such as gastropods (snails and slugs) and cephalopods (squids and octopuses), whereas information on the putative conchiferan sister group, Aculifera, is still scarce (but see Fritsch et al., 2015 on Hox gene expression in the polyplacophoran Acanthochitona crinita). In contrast to gastropods and cephalopods, the Hox genes in polyplacophorans are expressed in an anteroposterior sequence similar to the condition in annelids and other bilaterians. Here, we present the expression patterns of the Hox genes Lox5, Lox4, and Lox2, together with the ParaHox gene caudal (Cdx) in the polyplacophoran A. crinita. To localize Hox and ParaHox gene transcription products, we also investigated the expression patterns of the genes FMRF and Elav, and the development of the nervous system. Similar to the other Hox genes, all three Acr‐Lox genes are expressed in an anteroposterior sequence. Transcripts of Acr‐Cdx are seemingly present in the forming hindgut at the posterior end. The expression patterns of both the central class Acr‐Lox genes and the Acr‐Cdx gene are strikingly similar to those in annelids and nemerteans. In Polyplacophora, the expression patterns of the Hox and ParaHox genes seem to be evolutionarily highly conserved, while in conchiferan mollusks these genes are co‐opted into novel functions that might have led to evolutionary novelties, at least in gastropods and cephalopods.
Antibiotic treatment and factors influencing short and long term outcomes of acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis

Background: The MOSAIC study compared moxifloxacin with three standard antibiotic regimens in patients with Anthonisen type 1 acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (AECB). Further exploratory analyses were performed to identify prognostic factors of short and long term clinical outcomes and their value for clinical research. Methods: Outpatients aged ⩾45 years were screened between AECB episodes, randomised to treatment upon presenting with an AECB, assessed 7–10 days after study treatment, and followed monthly until a new AECB or for up to 9 months. Logistic regression assessed the predictive factors for clinical cure (return to pre-AECB status) and clinical success (cure or improvement), and a stepwise Cox regression model time to a composite event (failure of study treatment, new AECB, or further antibiotic treatment for AECB). Results: In multivariate analyses, clinical cure was positively influenced by treatment with moxifloxacin (odds ratio (OR) 1.49; 95% CI 1.08 to 2.04) while cardiopulmonary disease (OR 0.59; 95% CI 0.38 to 0.90), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) <50% predicted (OR 0.48; 95% CI 0.35 to 0.67), and ⩾4 AECBs in the previous year (OR 0.68; 95% CI 0.48 to 0.97) predicted a poorer outcome. For clinical success, treatment with moxifloxacin had a positive influence (OR 1.57; 95% CI 1.03 to 2.41) while cardiopulmonary disease (OR 0.41; 95% CI 0.25 to 0.68) and use of acute bronchodilators (OR 0.50; 95% CI 0.30 to 0.84) predicted a poorer outcome. The occurrence of the composite event was influenced by antibiotic treatment (hazard ratio (HR) 0.82; 95% CI 0.68 to 0.98), age ⩾65 years (HR 1.22; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.47), FEV1<50% predicted (HR 1.27; 95% CI 1.05 to 1.53), ⩾4 AECBs in previous year (HR 1.63; 95% CI 1.34 to 1.99), and acute bronchodilator use (HR 1.48; 95% CI 1.17 to 1.87). For the composite event the beneficial effect of moxifloxacin was primarily seen in patients aged ⩾65 years. Conclusion: Despite selection of a homogeneous population of patients with chronic bronchitis, between group differences relating to antibiotic treatment could still be confounded by factors related to medical history, severity of disease, and use of concomitant medications. The design of future clinical trials should take these factors into account.
Visualization of Spatial Sensor Data in the Context of Automotive Environment Perception Systems

Spatial sensor systems in cars are gaining more and more importance. Such sensor systems are the foundation of future safety systems, such as automatic emergency brakes, as well as for interactive driver assistance systems. We have developed a system that can visualize such spatial sensor data. Two environments are supported: a laboratory setup for off-line experience and a car setup that enables live experience of spatially aligned laser scanner and video data in real traffic. We have used two visualization devices, a video see-through LCD flat panel (TFT) and an optical see-through head-mounted display (HMD) in both setups. For the laboratory setup, a back-projection table has been integrated as well. To present data in correct spatial alignment, we have installed tracking systems in both environments. Visualization schemes for spatial sensor data and for geometric models that outline recognized objects have been developed. We report on our system and discuss experiences from the development and realization phases. The system is not intended to be used as a component of real driver assistance systems. Rather, it can bridge the gap between human machine interface (HMI) designers and sensing engineers during the development phase. Furthermore, it can be both a debugging tool for the realization of environmental perception systems and an experimental platform for the design of presentation schemes for upcoming driver assistance systems.
Seasonal Variation in Lysogeny as Depicted by Prophage Induction in Tampa Bay, Florida

ABSTRACT A seasonal study of the distribution of lysogenic bacteria in Tampa Bay, Florida, was conducted over a 13-month period. Biweekly water samples were collected and either were left unaltered or had the viral population reduced by filtration (pore size, 0.2 μm) and resuspension in filtered (pore size, 0.2 μm) water. Virus-reduced and unaltered samples were then treated by adding mitomycin C (0.5 μg ml−1) to induce prophage or were left untreated. In order to test the hypothesis that prophage induction was phosphate limited, additional induction experiments were performed in the presence and absence of phosphate. Induction was assessed as an increase in viral direct counts, relative to those obtained in controls, as detected by epifluorescence microscopy. Induction of prophage was observed in 5 of 25 (20%) unaltered samples which were obtained during or after the month of February, paralleling the results from a previous seasonal study. Induction of prophage was observed in 9 of 25 (36%) of the virus-reduced samples, primarily those obtained in the winter months, which was not observed in a prior seasonal study (P. K. Cochran and J. H. Paul, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 64:2308-2312, 1998). Induction was noted in the months of lowest bacterial and primary production, suggesting that lysogeny was favored under conditions of poor host growth. Phosphate addition enabled prophage induction in two of nine (22%) experiments. These results indicate that prophage induction may occasionally be phosphate limited or respond to increases in phosphate concentration, suggesting that phosphate concentration may modulate the lysogenic response of natural populations.
Responses of Crop Water Use Efficiency to Climate Change and Agronomic Measures in the Semiarid Area of Northern China

It has long been concerned how crop water use efficiency (WUE) responds to climate change. Most of existing researches have emphasized the impact of single climate factor but have paid less attention to the effect of developed agronomic measures on crop WUE. Based on the long-term field observations/experiments data, we investigated the changing responses of crop WUE to climate variables (temperature and precipitation) and agronomic practices (fertilization and cropping patterns) in the semi-arid area of northern China (SAC) during two periods, 1983–1999 and 2000–2010 (drier and warmer). Our results suggest that crop WUE was an intrinsical system sensitive to climate change and agronomic measures. Crops tend to reach the maximum WUE (WUEmax) in warm-dry environment while reach the stable minimum WUE (WUEmin) in warm-wet environment, with a difference between WUEmax and WUEmin ranging from 29.0%-55.5%. Changes in temperature and precipitation in the past three decades jointly enhanced crop WUE by 8.1%-30.6%. Elevated fertilizer and rotation cropping would increase crop WUE by 5.6–11.0% and 19.5–92.9%, respectively. These results indicate crop has the resilience by adjusting WUE, which is not only able to respond to subsequent periods of favorable water balance but also to tolerate the drought stress, and reasonable agronomic practices could enhance this resilience. However, this capacity would break down under impact of climate changes and unconscionable agronomic practices (e.g. excessive N/P/K fertilizer or traditional continuous cropping). Based on the findings in this study, a conceptual crop WUE model is constructed to indicate the threshold of crop resilience, which could help the farmer develop appropriate strategies in adapting the adverse impacts of climate warming.
The value of mapping studies - A participant-observer case study

We are strong advocates of evidence-based software engineering (EBSE) in general and systematic literature reviews (SLRs) in particular. We believe it is essential that the SLR methodology is being used constructively to support software engineering research. Aim: This study aims to assess the value of mapping studies which are a form of SLR that aims to identify and categorise the available research on a specific topic. Methods: We use a multi-case, participant observer case study using five examples of studies that were based on preceding mapping studies. Results: We identified 13 unique benefits that can accrue from basing research on a preceding mapping study of which only 2 were case specific. We also identified 9 problems associated with using preceding mapping studies of which two were case specific. Conclusions: Mapping studies can save time and effort for researchers and provide baselines to assist new research efforts. However, they must be of high quality in terms of completeness and rigour if they are to be a reliable basis for follow-on research.
Analysis of Familial Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Type 4 (FHL-4) Mutant Proteins Reveals that S-Acylation Is Required for the Function of Syntaxin 11 in Natural Killer Cells

Natural killer (NK) cell secretory lysosome exocytosis and cytotoxicity are impaired in familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis type 4 (FHL-4), a disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding the SNARE protein syntaxin 11. We show that syntaxin 11 binds to SNAP23 in NK cells and that this interaction is reduced by FHL-4 truncation and frameshift mutation proteins that delete all or part of the SNARE domain of syntaxin 11. In contrast the FHL-4 mutant proteins bound to the Sec-1/Munc18-like (SM) protein Munc18-2. We demonstrate that the C-terminal cysteine rich region of syntaxin 11, which is deleted in the FHL-4 mutants, is S-acylated. This posttranslational modification is required for the membrane association of syntaxin 11 and for its polarization to the immunological synapse in NK cells conjugated to target cells. Moreover, we show that Munc18-2 is recruited by syntaxin 11 to intracellular membranes in resting NK cells and to the immunological synapse in activated NK cells. This recruitment of Munc18-2 is abolished by deletion of the C-terminal cysteine rich region of syntaxin 11. These results suggest a pivotal role for S-acylation in the function of syntaxin 11 in NK cells.
From Dissertation to Publication in JRME

In this Research Commentary, 3 JRME authors describe the process of publishing their research in JRME. All 3 authors published parts of their dissertation in JRME and are sharing their stories to help (new) researchers in mathematics education better understand the process and to offer (experienced) researchers in mathematics education a tool that can be used to mentor their less experienced colleagues and students. The authors address preparing, conceptualizing, and writing a manuscript as well as responding to reviewers.
Degree-Degree Dependencies in Random Graphs with Heavy-Tailed Degrees

Abstract Mixing patterns in large self-organizing networks, such as the Internet, the World Wide Web, social, and biological networks are often characterized by degree-degree dependencies between neighboring nodes. In assortative networks, the degree-degree dependencies are positive (nodes with similar degrees tend to connect to each other), whereas in disassortative networks, these dependencies are negative. One of the problems with the commonly used Pearson correlation coefficient, also known as the assortativity coefficient, is that its magnitude decreases with the network size in disassortative networks. This makes it impossible to compare mixing patterns, for example, in two web crawls of different sizes. As an alternative, we have recently suggested to use rank correlation measures, such as Spearman’s rho. Numerical experiments have confirmed that Spearman’s rho produces consistent values in graphs of different sizes but similar structure, and it is able to reveal strong (positive or negative) dependencies in large graphs. In this study we analytically investigate degree-degree dependencies for scale-free graph sequences. In order to demonstrate the ill behavior of the Pearson’s correlation coefficient, we first study a simple model of two heavy-tailed, highly correlated, random variables X and Y, and show that the sample correlation coefficient converges in distribution either to a proper random variable on [ − 1, 1], or to zero, and the limit is nonnegative a.s. if X, Y ≥ 0. We next adapt these results to the degree-degree dependencies in networks as described by the Pearson correlation coefficient, and show that it is nonnegative in the large graph limit when the asymptotic degree distribution has an infinite third moment. Furthermore, we provide examples where in the Pearson’s correlation coefficient converges to zero in a network with strong negative degree-degree dependencies, and another example where this coefficient converges in distribution to a random variable. We suggest an alternative degree-degree dependency measure, based on Spearman’s rho, and prove that this statistical estimator converges to an appropriate limit under quite general conditions. These conditions are proved to be satisfied in common network models, such as the configuration model and the preferential attachment model. We conclude that rank correlations provide a suitable and informative method for uncovering network mixing patterns.