Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Ashtanga-Based Yoga Therapy Increases the Sensory Contribution to Postural Stability in Visually-Impaired Persons at Risk for Falls as Measured by the Wii Balance Board: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective Persons with visual impairment (VI) are at greater risk for falls due to irreparable damage to visual sensory input contributing to balance. Targeted training may significantly improve postural stability by strengthening the remaining sensory systems. Here, we evaluate the Ashtanga-based Yoga Therapy (AYT) program as a multi-sensory behavioral intervention to develop postural stability in VI. Design A randomized, waitlist-controlled, single-blind clinical trial Methods The trial was conducted between October 2012 and December 2013. Twenty-one legally blind participants were randomized to an 8-week AYT program (n = 11, mean (SD) age = 55(17)) or waitlist control (n=10, mean (SD) age = 55(10)). AYT subjects convened for one group session at a local yoga studio with an instructor and two individual home-based practice sessions per week for a total of 8 weeks. Subjects completed outcome measures at baseline and post-8 weeks of AYT. The primary outcome, absolute Center of Pressure (COP), was derived from the Wii Balance Board (WBB), a standalone posturography device, in 4 sensory conditions: firm surface, eyes open (EO); firm surface, eyes closed (EC); foam surface, EO; and foam surface, EC. Stabilization Indices (SI) were computed from COP measures to determine the relative visual (SIfirm, SIfoam), somatosensory (SIEO, SIEC) and vestibular (SIV, i.e., FoamEC vs. FirmEO) contributions to balance. This study was not powered to detect between group differences, so significance of pre-post changes was assessed by paired samples t-tests within each group. Results Groups were equivalent at baseline (all p > 0.05). In the AYT group, absolute COP significantly increased in the FoamEO (t(8) = -3.66, p = 0.01) and FoamEC (t(8) = -3.90, p = 0.01) conditions. Relative somatosensory SIEO (t(8) = -2.42, p = 0.04) and SIEC (t(8) = -3.96, p = 0.01), and vestibular SIV (t(8) = -2.47, p = 0.04) contributions to balance increased significantly. As expected, no significant changes from EO to EC conditions were found indicating an absence of visual dependency in VI. No significant pre-post changes were observed in the control group (all p > 0.05). Conclusions These preliminary results establish the potential for AYT training to develop the remaining somatosensory and vestibular responses used to optimize postural stability in a VI population. Trial Registration www.ClinicalTrials. gov NCT01366677
Finding periodicity in space and time

An algorithm for simultaneous detection, segmentation, and characterization of spatiotemporal periodicity is presented. The use of periodicity templates is proposed to localize and characterize temporal activities. The templates not only indicate the presence and location of a periodic event, but also give an accurate quantitative periodicity measure. Hence, they can be used as a new means of periodicity representation. The proposed algorithm can also be considered as a "periodicity filter", a low-level model of periodicity perception. The algorithm is computationally simple, and shown to be more robust than optical flow based techniques in the presence of noise. A variety of real-world examples are used to demonstrate the performance of the algorithm.
On the support of multi-perspective process models variability for smart environments

Cloud service-based applications are to be adapted to serve multiple platforms and stakeholders. Atop of such services, Smart Green Buildings are fostering a plethora of processes within their sustainability life-cycle. This introduces a number of challenges, as how to support multiple perspectives of domain-specific variability and how to deal with large collections of related process variants. To tackle this, there is a need to handle multi-perspective variability for processes. This paper introduces an approach to manage multi-perspective process variability by means of a meta-model and a modeling methodology, representing separately people and things variability perspectives in smart environments. Initial experimental results are also described, which indicate encouraging results for managing highly complex variability models.
Path Selection Algorithms for Multi-Hop VANETs

In this paper, we introduce a collision model for vehicular cluster and we propose path selection algorithms for multi-hop VANETs. That is, we propose the intuitive algorithm named range-aware broadcasting (RAB), the collisions minimized optimal path selection algorithm (CM-Opt), SNR-guaranteed optimal path selection algorithm (SNRG-Opt), low-complexity SNR-guaranteed path selection algorithm (Low-SNRG), and distributed algorithms to reduce the number of collisions and/or reduce the complexity. We show that Low-SNRG has same performance as SNRG-Opt. Through computer simulations, it is shown that the proposed algorithms reduce the number of collision significantly. Also, it is shown that Low-SNRG has almost same average number of collisions as CM-Opt in spite of its low complexity. Also, the distributed path selection algorithm has similar performance to the non-distributed algorithms.
A new block compressive sensingto control the number of measurements

Compressive Sensing (CS) aims to recover a sparse signal from a small number of projections onto random vectors. Because of its great practical possibility, both academia and industries have made efforts to develop the CS's reconstruction performance, but most of existing works remain at the theoretical study. In this paper, we propose a new Block Compres-sive Sensing (nBCS), which has several benefits compared to the general CS methods. In particular, the nBCS can be dynamically adaptive to varying channel capacity because it conveys the good inheritance of the wavelet transform.
Microbial Cell Factories Heterologous Expression of Lcc1 Gene from Trametes Trogii in Pichia Pastoris and Characterization of the Recombinant Enzyme

Background: Fungal laccases are useful enzymes for industrial applications; they exhibit broad substrate specificity and thus are able to oxidize a variety of xenobiotic compounds including chlorinated phenolics, synthetic dyes, pesticides and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Unfortunately, the biotechnological exploitation of laccases can be hampered by the difficulties concerning the enzyme production by the native hosts.
Proximity-based opinion retrieval

Blog post opinion retrieval aims at finding blog posts that are relevant and opinionated about a user's query. In this paper we propose a simple probabilistic model for assigning relevant opinion scores to documents. The key problem is how to capture opinion expressions in the document, that are related to the query topic. Current solutions enrich general opinion lexicons by finding query-specific opinion lexicons using pseudo-relevance feedback on external corpora or the collection itself. In this paper we use a general opinion lexicon and propose using proximity information in order to capture opinion term relatedness to the query. We propose a proximity-based opinion propagation method to calculate the opinion density at each point in a document. The opinion density at the position of a query term in the document can then be considered as the probability of opinion about the query term at that position. The effect of different kernels for capturing the proximity is also discussed. Experimental results on the BLOG06 dataset show that the proposed method provides significant improvement over standard TREC baselines and achieves a 2.5% increase in MAP over the best performing run in the TREC 2008 blog track.
A Query Processing Architecture for Sensor Networks

Although advances in sensor node hardware, which comprises sensors, embedded processors, and communication components, have made the large-scale deployment of sensor networks a reality, sensor networks are quite limited in resources. A sensor network includes a numerous battery-operated wireless sensor nodes, which have limited processing and storage capabilities, and a few base stations, which are powered PCs that are possibly connected to the Internet. Furthermore, typical sensor network applications, ranging from monitoring to military and health care, generate various complex continuous queries. The querying of sensor networks requires a rich set of abstractions, techniques, and heuristics. In this paper, challenges and design goals for query processing strategies are identified. The current strategies are compared based on the query language, the in-network processing mechanisms, and the query optimization techniques. Moreover, the integration of local and wide area sensor networks is addressed. In particular, a query processing architecture is proposed to meet the emerging needs of sensor network applications. Additionally, future research directions for query processing are outlined.
NAIRU Estimates for Germany: New Evidence on the Inflation–Unemployment Tradeoff

Abstract Meaningful estimates of the non-accelerating inflation rate of unemployment (NAIRU) within a Phillips curve framework require an identified tradeoff between inflation and unemployment. However, observations of inflation and unemployment are equilibrium points giving rise to a simultaneity problem. We assess conventional identifying assumptions in the literature on the German NAIRU in a general bi-variate equations system of inflation and unemplyoment. We use a data-driven method for identification based on shifts in the relative volatility of shocks to unemployment and inflation to identify the tradeoff for Germany. Our results support models which estimate a contemporaneous effect of unemployment on inflation and those which model inflation and unemployment jointly.
Towards Virtual Shared Memory for Non-cache-coherent Multicore Systems

Emerging heterogeneous architectures do not necessarily provide cache-coherent shared memory across all components of the system. Although there are good reasons for this architectural decision, it does provide programmers with a challenge. Several programming models and approaches are currently available, including explicit data movement for offloading computation to coprocessors, and treating coprocessors as distributed memory machines by using message passing. This paper examines the potential of distributed shared memory (DSM) for addressing this programming challenge. We discuss how our recently proposed DSM system and its memory consistency model maps to the heterogeneous node context, and present experimental results that highlight the advantages and challenges of this approach.
Driver identification using driving behavior signals

In this paper, we propose a driver identification method that is based on the driving behavior signals that are observed while the driver is following another vehicle. Driving behavior signals, such as the use of the accelerator pedal, brake pedal, vehicle velocity, and distance from the vehicle in front, are measured using a driving simulator. We compared the identification rate obtained using different identification models and different features. As a result, we found the nonparametric models is better than the parametric models. Also, the driver's operation signals were found to be better than road environment signals and car behavior signals. The identification rate for thirty driver using actual vehicle driving in a city area was 73%.
TONGKAT ISTIWA‘, GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) DAN GOOGLE EARTH UNTUK MENENTUKAN TITIK KOORDINAT BUMI DAN APLIKASINYA DALAM PENENTUAN ARAH KIBLAT

There are at least three ways to determine the position or the coordinates of a spot on the Earth's surface. They are: istiwa' sticks, Global Positioning System (GPS), and Google Earth. Istiwa' stick is used without technology operations, while GPS and Google Earth are used with technology. Until now, the use of GPS and Google Earth is still a passively consumptive, without their critical analytical effort. This qualitative research using descriptive analytic mathematical methods. The objective of this study is the to know the theory, applications, and accuracy of the istiwa' stick, GPS, and Google Earth comparatively. The study found that the istiwa' stick is one of the alternatives way to determine the coordinates of the Earth which uses the theory of spherical trigonometry calculations simply without assistance. Whereas GPS and Google Earth use principles of geodetic scientifically. In terms of applications, the most practical and accurate is GPS, and then followed by Google Earth, and the last is istiwa' stick. Setidaknya ada tiga cara untuk menentukan posisi atau titik koordinat suatu tempat di permukaan Bumi, yaitu tongkat istiwa’, Global Positioning System (GPS), dan Google Earth. Tongkat istiwa’ digunakan tanpa bantuan teknologi, sedangkan GPS dan Google Earth digunakan dengan teknologi. Sampai saat ini, penggunaan GPS maupun Google Earth masih bersifat konsumtif pasif, tanpa adanya upaya analitis kritis. Penelitian kualitatif ini menggunakan metode deskriptif analitik matematis. Penelitian ini memiliki tujuan untuk mengetahui teori, aplikasi, maupun akurasi tongkat istiwa’, GPS, dan Google Earth secara komparatif. Penelitian ini menemukan bahwa tongkat istiwa’ adalah salah satu alternatif penentuan titik koordinat Bumi yang menggunakan teori perhitungan spherical trigonometry secara sederhana tanpa bantuan, sedangkan GPS dan Google Earth menggunakan prinsip keilmuan geodesi yang lebih teliti. Dari segi aplikasi, yang paling praktis dan akurat adalah GPS. Kemudian disusul Google Earth, dan tongkat istiwa’.
Virological Surveillance of Influenza A Subtypes Isolated in 2014 from Clinical Outbreaks in Canadian Swine

Influenza A viruses (IAVs) are respiratory pathogens associated with an acute respiratory disease that occurs year-round in swine production. It is currently one of the most important pathogens in swine populations, with the potential to infect other host species including humans. Ongoing research indicates that the three major subtypes of IAV—H1N1, H1N2, and H3N2—continue to expand in their genetic and antigenic diversity. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive genomic analysis of 16 IAVs isolated from different clinical outbreaks in Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan in 2014. We also examined the genetic basis for probable antigenic differences among sequenced viruses. On the basis of phylogenetic analysis, all 13 Canadian H3N2 viruses belonged to cluster IV, eight H3N2 viruses were part of the IV-C cluster, and one virus belonged to the IV-B and one to the IV-D cluster. Based on standards used in this study, three H3N2 viruses could not be clearly classified into any currently established group within cluster IV (A to F). Three H1N2 viruses were part of the H1α cluster.
The OCTOPUS project as an incubator of soft robotics technologies

The fascinating capabilities of the octopus are pushing roboticists in trying to reproduce them in an artificial manner. In the OCTOPUS project a series of soft robotics technologies have been developed to allow the translation of biological insights into an eight-arm artificial octopus, but also to enable and open new perspectives for soft bodied robots.
Capacity analysis of dual-hop amplify-and-forward MIMO multiple-access channels

Relay channels have been heavily studied during the last decades as a means of improving spectral efficiency, availability and coverage in combination with multiple antenna transceivers. Relay channels can comprise many hops but the most practical approach at the time being would be a dual-hop system. In addition, the simplest method of relaying in terms of complexity is amplify and forward. In this direction, we investigate the ergodic capacity of a dual-hop amplify-and-forward MIMO MAC and we derive asymptotic closed-form expressions based on the principles of free probability theory. We extend the current literature by proposing a analytical model which can accommodate variance-profiled Gaussian matrices. Numerical results are utilized to verify the accuracy of the derived closed-form expressions and evaluate the effect of the channel parameters.
Parallelized Artificial Bee Colony with Ripple-communication Strategy

In this paper, a communication strategy for the parallelized Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) optimization is proposed for solving numerical optimization problems. The artificial agents are split into several independent subpopulations based on the original structure of the ABC, and the proposed communication strategy provides the information flow for the agents to communicate in different subpopulations. Three benchmark functions are used to test the behavior of convergence, the accuracy, and the speed of the proposed method. According to the experimental result, the proposed communicational strategy increases the accuracy of the ABC on finding the near best solution.
Interpreting Early Career Trajectories

Career decisions of four teachers are explored through the concept of figured worlds in this qualitative, longitudinal case study. Participants were purposefully chosen for similarity at entry, with a range of career trajectories over time. Teacher career paths included remaining in one school, repeated changes in schools, attrition after relocation, and non-renewal of contract. Data included interviews, observations, participants’ assessments, and pupils’ work. Cross-case analysis suggests that no single teacher attribute or workplace condition determined teachers’ career decisions; rather, teachers’ ability to refigure their identity within the figured world of teaching shaped career trajectory. Key factors such as ability to address disequilibrium, teacher identity, agency, and collaborative capacity are examined. Implications call for pre-service preparation and professional development to navigate cultures of schools, amended administrative involvement in teacher retention, and policy reform acknowledging the complexity of teachers’ figured worlds.
Lateral ankle sprain alters postural control in bipedal stance: Part 2 sensorial and mechanical effects induced by wearing an ankle orthosis

To investigate the effects induced by wearing an orthosis during the rehabilitation process, 23 ankle sprain patients (degrees I and II) were evaluated in three conditions (reference, with an elastic compression stocking and with an orthosis), 14 h, 10 and 30 days on average after their injury and compared with those of 30 age‐matched healthy individuals. The patients were tested with separate measurements of the reaction forces under each limb to highlight the possible compensatory mechanisms between the sound and the injured legs. Their postural stability was enhanced during unilateral orthosis wear, explained by a bilateral effect involving both feet. Wearing a compression stocking induced comparably mild intermediate effects compared with the effects observed with the orthosis. These effects were constant throughout the next month. Following lateral ankle sprain, wearing an orthosis allows patients to improve postural function a few hours after the injury to 1 month later. Only cutaneous pressure intervening without mechanical maintenance induced mild effects, indicating that orthosis effects on postural control could partly result from its sensorial stimulation. It, therefore, seems relevant to prescribe orthosis wear for at least 1 month.
On Delay of Receiver Cooperation versus Hybrid ARQ

Uplink receiver cooperation of base-stations is investigated and compared to Hybrid ARQ. The cooperation of receivers is performed by a common detection entity which receives the signals of different base-stations. We review an iterative joint detector and define soft-symbols in order to apply this detector for higher order modulations. Its results are used to compare receiver cooperation with conventional Hybrid ARQ. Simulation results show remarkable gains for receiver cooperation compared to non-cooperative receivers with Hybrid ARQ. It turns out that, due to its better performance, receiver cooperation even has a lower resulting additional delay than Hybrid ARQ.
Testing the pluralist approach to sex: the influence of environment on synergistic interactions between mutation load and parasitism in Daphnia magna

Both deleterious mutations and parasites have been acknowledged as potential selective forces responsible for the evolutionary maintenance of sexual reproduction. The pluralist approach to sex proposes that these two factors may have to interact synergistically in order to stabilize sex, and one of the simplest ways this could occur is if parasites are capable of causing synergistic epistasis between mutations in their hosts. However, the effects of both deleterious mutations and parasitism are known to be influenced by a range of environmental factors, so the nature of the interaction may depend upon the organisms’ environment. Using chemically mutated Daphnia magna lines, we examined the effects of mutation and parasitism under a range of temperature and food regimes. We found that although parasites were capable of causing synergistic epistasis between mutations in their hosts, these effects were dependent upon an interaction between parasite genotype and temperature.
Integrating between-host transmission and within-host immunity to analyze the impact of varicella vaccination on zoster

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox and reactivation of latent VZV causes herpes zoster (HZ). VZV reactivation is subject to the opposing mechanisms of declining and boosted VZV-specific cellular mediated immunity (CMI). A reduction in exogenous re-exposure ‘opportunities’ through universal chickenpox vaccination could therefore lead to an increase in HZ incidence. We present the first individual-based model that integrates within-host data on VZV-CMI and between-host transmission data to simulate HZ incidence. This model allows estimating currently unknown pivotal biomedical parameters, including the duration of exogenous boosting at 2 years, with a peak threefold to fourfold increase of VZV-CMI; the VZV weekly reactivation probability at 5% and VZV subclinical reactivation having no effect on VZV-CMI. A 100% effective chickenpox vaccine given to 1 year olds would cause a 1.75 times peak increase in HZ 31 years after implementation. This increase is predicted to occur mainly in younger age groups than is currently assumed. DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.7554/eLife.07116. 001