Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
XOR-Forwarding for Wireless Networks

In this paper, we propose a localized network-coding-based packet forwarding protocol for wireless networks, called Opportunistic ASynchronous Information diSsemination (OASIS), based on COPE. OASIS not only inherents two features from COPE, opportunistic listening and opportunistic coding, but also introduces a new one, opportunistic information dissemination, which aggressively encodes as many packets as possible even if packets are not going to be received by their next hops. In addition, we point out that packet pool managements and packet information exchanges are critical in the implementation. Simulation results show that OASIS has network throughput about 1.4 times of traditional unicast forwarding, and the improvement is about 1.2 times of the improvement achieved by COPE.
Stress Coping Strategies and Quality of Life in Patients with Schizophrenia

ObjectivesZZThe aims of this study were to investigate the pattern of stress coping strategies and the effects of stress coping strategies on quality of life in patients with schizophrenia. MethodsZZStress coping strategies and quality of life were examined using Ways of Coping Checklist and Schizophrenia Quality of Life Scale for 98 patients with schizophrenia. Stress cop- ing strategies were composed of problem-focused coping, social support seeking, emotion-fo- cused coping, and wishful thinking. Among these, problem-focused coping and social support seeking were active coping strategies while emotion-focused coping and wishful thinking were passive coping strategies. Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and Beck's Depres- sion Inventory (BDI) were also administered. ResultsZZActive coping scores were higher than passive coping scores in patients with schizo- phrenia. Quality of life was higher in the active coping group compared to the passive coping group. Active coping usage was a significant predictor of higher quality of life even after control - ling for gender, age, PANSS, and BDI scores. ConclusionZZPatients with schizophrenia used more active coping strategies than passive cop- ing strategies, which showed significant association with higher quality of life. A treatment pro - gram to provide education on use of active coping strategies in a proper and flexible way might contribute to enhanced quality of life in patients with schizophrenia. J Korean Neuropsychiatr Assoc 2015;54(2):181-187 KEY WORDSZZ Psychological stress · Coping skills · Quality of life · Schizophrenia.
SARP: producing approximate results with small correctness losses for cloud interactive services

Despite the importance of providing fluid responsiveness to user requests for interactive services, such request processing is very resource expensive when dealing with large-scale input data. These often exceed the application owners' budget when services are deployed on a cloud, in which resources are charged in monetary terms. Providing approximate processing results is a feasible solution for such problem that trades off request correctness (quantified by output quality) for response time reduction. However, existing techniques in this area either use partial input data or skip expensive computations to produce approximate results, thus resulting in large losses in output quality on a tight resource budget. In this paper, we propose SARP, a Synopsis-based Approximate Request Processing framework to produce approximate results with small correctness losses even using small amount of resources. To achieve this, SARP conducts full computations over the statistical aggregation of the entire input data using two key ideas: (1) offline synopsis management that generates and maintains a set of synopses that represent the statistical aggregation of original input data at different approximation levels. (2) Online synopsis selection that considers both the current resource allocation and the workload status so as to select the synopsis with the maximal length that can be processed within the required response time. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach by testing the recommendation services in E-commerce sites using a large, real-world dataset. Using prediction accuracy as the output quality, the results demonstrate: (i) SARP achieves significant response time reduction with very small quality losses compared to the exact processing results. (ii) Using the same processing time, SARP demonstrates a considerable reduction in quality loss compared to existing approximation techniques.
Dexamethasone decreases xenograft response to paclitaxel through inhibition of tumor cell apoptosis

Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activation has recently been implicated in the initiation of anti-apoptotic signaling pathways in epithelial cell lines grown in culture. However, the evidence that GR-mediated inhibition of tumor cell apoptosis is the mechanism that diminishes chemotherapy effectiveness in vivo is limited. We therefore initiated a breast cancer xenograft study to examine whether or not pretreatment with GCs decreases tumor response to chemotherapy by inhibiting tumor cell apoptosis. Here we report a significant decrease in paclitaxel-induced apoptosis in xenografts from mice pretreated with dexamethasone (Dex). A significant difference in apoptosis in xenografts from Dex/paclitaxel versus paclitaxel treated animals was seen eight days following initiation of chemotherapy. Nine days later, mice treated with Dex/paclitaxel had significantly larger tumors compared with those that received paclitaxel alone (p=0.032). Dex pretreatment did not significantly affect tumor cell proliferation rates. Taken together, these results demonstrate that systemic Dex administration results in significantly reduced breast cancer xenograft apoptosis in the context of chemotherapy treatment. We also found that systemic Dex treatment results in upregulation of the anti-apoptotic gene MKP-1 and downregulation of pro-apoptotic Bid and TRAIL genes in tumor cells six hours following Dex treatment. These in vivo gene expression changes correlated with significant inhibition of chemotherapy-induced apoptosis. Interestingly, the decreased chemotherapeutic response of Dex-pretreated tumors persisted for several weeks following treatment. These data suggest that GR-mediated transcriptional regulation of pro- and anti-apoptotic genes contributes to the mechanism through which GCs decrease paclitaxel-induced apoptosis.
Optimum diversity combining and equalization in digital data transmission with applications to cellular mobile radio. I. Theoretical considerations

A comprehensive theory for Nth-order space diversity reception combined with various equalization techniques in digital data transmission over frequency-selective fading channels is developed. The channels are characterized by N arbitrary impulse responses possessing random parameters as well as N additive Gaussian noise sources. Various combiner-equalizers that minimize the mean-squared error are determined. Formulas are presented for the attainable least-mean-squared errors and upper bounds on average probabilities of error. The theory is applied to optimize system parameters and to predict performance for QAM data transmission operating over a model for the mobile radio channel. For this model, estimates of average attainable error rates and outage probabilities are provided as functions of system parameters. In the channel models the uncoded data rates as well as Shannon capacity are regarded as random variables. >
Ultralow power artificial synapses using nanotextured magnetic Josephson junctions

Clustered ferromagnetic Josephson junctions form ultralow energy synaptic elements. Neuromorphic computing promises to markedly improve the efficiency of certain computational tasks, such as perception and decision-making. Although software and specialized hardware implementations of neural networks have made tremendous accomplishments, both implementations are still many orders of magnitude less energy efficient than the human brain. We demonstrate a new form of artificial synapse based on dynamically reconfigurable superconducting Josephson junctions with magnetic nanoclusters in the barrier. The spiking energy per pulse varies with the magnetic configuration, but in our demonstration devices, the spiking energy is always less than 1 aJ. This compares very favorably with the roughly 10 fJ per synaptic event in the human brain. Each artificial synapse is composed of a Si barrier containing Mn nanoclusters with superconducting Nb electrodes. The critical current of each synapse junction, which is analogous to the synaptic weight, can be tuned using input voltage spikes that change the spin alignment of Mn nanoclusters. We demonstrate synaptic weight training with electrical pulses as small as 3 aJ. Further, the Josephson plasma frequencies of the devices, which determine the dynamical time scales, all exceed 100 GHz. These new artificial synapses provide a significant step toward a neuromorphic platform that is faster, more energy-efficient, and thus can attain far greater complexity than has been demonstrated with other technologies.
Solving the Generalized Poisson Equation Using the Finite-Difference Method (FDM)

The Poisson equation is a very powerful tool for modeling the behavior of electrostatic systems, but unfortunately may only be solved analytically for very simplified models. Consequently, numerical simulation must be utilized in order to model the behavior of complex geometries with practical value. Although there are several competing algorithms for achieving this goal, one of the simplest and more straightforward of these is called the finite-difference method (FDM). At its core, FDM is nothing more than a direct conversion of the Poisson equation from continuous functions and operators into their discretely-sampled counterparts. This converts the entire problem into a system of linear equations that may be readily solved via matrix inversion. The accuracy of such a method is therefore directly tied to the ability of a finite grid to approximate a continuous system, and errors may be arbitrarily reduced by simply increasing the number of samples. Despite the relative simplicity of FDM as a numerical tool, information on the subject is surprisingly scarce. This is especially true for the case of quasi-static systems experiencing current flow in conducting materials. Part of the reason for this likely has to do with the fact that FDM is, at its core, nothing more than a simplified form of the finite element method (FEM). The only difference is that FDM is solved through a fixed, rectangular geometry, while FEM utilizes a flexible, triangular mesh. Nevertheless, the uniform grids inherent to FDM make it very intuitive to learn and to program, especially for students unfamiliar with techniques in numerical methods. Consequently, the learning curve for FEM is far steeper than it is for FDM, and often requires a whole semester of study to fully understand. On the other hand, expertise with FDM may be readily achieved in only a few weeks, and even serves as an intuitive springboard from which to study the more complex nature of FEM. The goal of this paper is to serve as a comprehensive introduction to the principles of FDM. Much of the basic information is readily found in standard textbooks [1, 2], though many of the practical details and advanced topics are difficult to find anywhere at all. This paper is therefore a compilation of knowledge based on my experience with FDM, as well as a primer on some of the more advanced topics that are almost nonexistent in the literature. The audience is specifically intended to include first-year students in computational electromagnetics, but more advanced professionals should still find useful reference material as well. The basic governing
Characterizing half‐a‐degree difference: a review of methods for identifying regional climate responses to global warming targets

The Paris Agreement long‐term global temperature goal refers to two global warming levels: well below 2°C and 1.5°C above preindustrial. Regional climate signals at specific global warming levels, and especially the differences between 1.5°C and 2°C, are not well constrained, however. In particular, methodological challenges related to the assessment of such differences have received limited attention. This article reviews alternative approaches for identifying regional climate signals associated with global temperature limits, and evaluates the extent to which they constitute a sound basis for impacts analysis. Four methods are outlined, including comparing data from different greenhouse gas scenarios, sub‐selecting climate models based on global temperature response, pattern scaling, and extracting anomalies at the time of each global temperature increment. These methods have rarely been applied to compare 2°C with 1.5°C, but some demonstrate potential avenues for useful research. Nevertheless, there are methodological challenges associated with the use of existing climate model experiments, which are generally designed to model responses to different levels of greenhouse gas forcing, rather than to model climate responses to a specific level of forcing that targets a given level of global temperature change. Novel approaches may be required to address policy questions, in particular: to differentiate between half degree warming increments while accounting for different sources of uncertainty; to examine mechanisms of regional climate change including the potential for nonlinear responses; and to explore the relevance of time‐lagged processes in the climate system and declining emissions, and the resulting sensitivity to alternative mitigation pathways. WIREs Clim Change 2017, 8:e457. doi: 10.1002/wcc.457
Novel model for cell - system interaction (MCSI) in NAND Flash

For the first time a stochastic model of the program operation in NAND flash memories is proposed. The model incorporates intrinsic noise effects on the threshold voltage (Vth) distribution of the memory cells in incremental step pulse programming (ISPP) schemes. An excellent agreement of the model with experimental data at 48 nm ground rule is demonstrated. This model for cell-system interaction (MCSI) directly makes the link between memory transistor properties and memory system characteristics. It enables efficient algorithm development as well as evaluation of device concepts for future technology nodes with regard to the expected memory system performance and reliability.
The internal death of Japanoise

Japanese noise music (Japanoise) has strong associations with death. In the early stages of Japanoise’s development, practitioners would often make reference to eroticism, violence and death in their performances and album artwork to help visualise the “excess” of their sound. The discourse of Japanoise also draws on these associations, through concepts such as disembodiment, to help frame this transgressive enterprise. Death becomes a way of visualising and conceptualising a subversive style of music that attempts to leave the world of limits and meaning. Paul Hegarty and Eugene Thacker both account for Japanoise in these terms. Although death is only implicit in their writing, it will be argued that this understanding of death is essential to what Hegarty means by failure and what Thacker means by disembodiment. This paper will show how, for both theorists, death names a paradoxical yet extreme form of possibility that enables Japanoise to test limits. However, the problem with this understanding is that it holds Japanoise to a limited framework. It essentialises the concepts of negativity and subversion to the economy of Japanoise. This paper will argue that Japanoise cannot be limited to these concepts if it hopes to be more than an oppositional form of music and a tired form of transgression. This requires that its relationship with death not be reduced to a form of production or act of will. By arguing that Hegarty and Thacker’s accounts of noise can be read as Heideggerian, this essay will critique this understanding by drawing on Maurice Blanchot’s account of death. This critique will show how a different understanding of death enables a more nuanced understanding of Japanoise.
Extracellular Release of the Atheroprotective Heat Shock Protein 27 Is Mediated by Estrogen and Competitively Inhibits acLDL Binding to Scavenger Receptor-A

We recently identified heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) as an estrogen receptor beta (ER&bgr;)-associated protein and noted its role as a biomarker for atherosclerosis. The current study tests the hypothesis that HSP27 is protective against the development of atherosclerosis. HSP27 overexpressing (HSP27o/e) mice were crossed to apoE−/− mice that develop atherosclerosis when fed a high-fat diet. Aortic en face analysis demonstrated a 35% reduction (P≤0.001) in atherosclerotic lesion area in apoE−/−HSP27o/e mice compared to apoE−/− mice, but primarily in females. Serum HSP27 levels were >10-fold higher in female apoE−/−HSP27o/e mice compared to males, and there was a remarkable inverse correlation between circulating HSP27 levels and lesion area in both male and female mice (r2=0.78, P≤0.001). Mechanistic in vitro studies showed upregulated HSP27 expression and secretion in macrophages treated with estrogen or acLDL. Moreover, exogenous HSP27 added to culture media inhibited macrophage acLDL uptake and competed for the scavenger receptor A (SR-A)—an effect that was abolished with the SR-A competitive ligand fucoidan and absent in macrophages from SR-A−/− mice. Furthermore, extracellular HSP27 decreased acLDL-induced release of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1&bgr; and increased the release of the antiinflammatory cytokine IL-10. HSP27 is atheroprotective, perhaps because of its ability to compete for the uptake of atherogenic lipids or attenuate inflammation.
An HIV-1 Envelope Immunogen with W427S Mutation in CD4 Binding Site Induced More T Follicular Helper Memory Cells and Reduced Non-Specific Antibody Responses

The CD4 binding site (CD4BS) of the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) contains epitopes for broadly neutralizing antibody (nAb) and is the target for the vaccine development. However, the CD4BS core including residues 425-430 overlaps the B cell superantigen site and may be related to B cell exhaustion in HIV-1 infection. Furthermore, production of nAb and high-affinity plasma cells needs germinal center reaction and the help of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells. We believe that strengthening the ability of Env CD4BS in inducing Tfh response and decreasing the effects of the superantigen are the strategies for eliciting nAb and development of HIV-1 vaccine. We constructed a gp120 mutant W427S of an HIV-1 primary R5 strain and examined its ability in the elicitation of Ab and the production of Tfh by immunization of BALB/c mice. We found that the trimeric wild-type gp120 can induce more non-specific antibody-secreting plasma cells, higher serum IgG secretion, and more Tfh cells by splenocyte. The modified W427S gp120 elicits higher levels of specific binding antibodies as well as nAbs though it produces less Tfh cells. Furthermore, higher Tfh cell frequency does not correlate to the specific binding Abs or nAbs indicating that the wild-type gp120 induced some non-specific Tfh that did not contribute to the production of specific Abs. This gp120 mutant led to more memory Tfh production, especially, the effector memory Tfh cells. Taken together, W427S gp120 could induce higher level of specific binding and neutralizing Ab production that may be associated with the reduction of non-specific Tfh but strengthening of the memory Tfh.
Power Efficient Scheme for Performance Optimization in Ad Hoc Networks

A Mobile Ad-hoc network (MANET) is a self organizing and adaptive in nature. A MANET consists of a set of mobile participants who must communicate, collaborate, and interact to complete an assigned mission. The challenges of MANETs are to provide wireless, high-capacity, secure, and networked connectivity. Node mobility in MANET causes frequent changes of the network topology. Routing protocols are used to discover routes between the nodes. There are many tools available for testing and comparing the MANET routing protocols. But existing tools or simulators have several drawbacks: such as codes are very lengthy, too many header files. This paper concentrates on designing optimized line of coding and easily understandable routing protocol. The proposed protocol is power aware keeping in view the power constraint of nodes being used in the ad hoc network and design its basic structure in C++ and studies its performance on various inputs.
Predicting Cell Cycle Regulated Genes by Causal Interactions

The fundamental difference between classic and modern biology is that technological innovations allow to generate high-throughput data to get insights into molecular interactions on a genomic scale. These high-throughput data can be used to infer gene networks, e.g., the transcriptional regulatory or signaling network, representing a blue print of the current dynamical state of the cellular system. However, gene networks do not provide direct answers to biological questions, instead, they need to be analyzed to reveal functional information of molecular working mechanisms. In this paper we propose a new approach to analyze the transcriptional regulatory network of yeast to predict cell cycle regulated genes. The novelty of our approach is that, in contrast to all other approaches aiming to predict cell cycle regulated genes, we do not use time series data but base our analysis on the prior information of causal interactions among genes. The major purpose of the present paper is to predict cell cycle regulated genes in S. cerevisiae. Our analysis is based on the transcriptional regulatory network, representing causal interactions between genes, and a list of known periodic genes. No further data are used. Our approach utilizes the causal membership of genes and the hierarchical organization of the transcriptional regulatory network leading to two groups of periodic genes with a well defined direction of information flow. We predict genes as periodic if they appear on unique shortest paths connecting two periodic genes from different hierarchy levels. Our results demonstrate that a classical problem as the prediction of cell cycle regulated genes can be seen in a new light if the concept of a causal membership of a gene is applied consequently. This also shows that there is a wealth of information buried in the transcriptional regulatory network whose unraveling may require more elaborate concepts than it might seem at first.