Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A Study on Causal Discovery Considering Confounders

There are a lot of observational data in the real world in which many variables are correlated with each other. Correlation is not equal to causality. The best way to demonstrate a causal relationship between variables is to conduct a controlled randomized experiment. However, real-world experiments are often expensive, unethical, or even impossible. Many researchers working in various fields are thus using statistical methods to analyze causal relationships between variables. Many studies have been conducted to infer causality from raw observational data, but most of them have been based on the assumption that all the variables (including confounders) affecting the causal relationships have been known. Today, however, emphasis has been placed on open data. In the open data environment, it is difficult to consider all related data beforehand, and an exploratory analysis is required to acquire data that can be confounding. Therefore, in this study, first, we analyzed how the existing methods which determines the causal direction between variables are influenced by unknown confounders. Through assessing the existing methods, we found that the existing methods are susceptible to confounding in different degrees. We thus investigated how to decide whether a third variable is confounding for two observed variables. Finally, we studied on a framework to perform causal analysis while considering the possible confounders. We have three purposes for the study. Firstly, investigating a general assessment method for causal discovery methods, especially investigating their performance when the data is confounded. Secondly, investigating how to determine a possible common cause variable. Thirdly, investigating how to do causal analysis of open data while considering the possible confounders.
Performance analysis of voice activity detection algorithm for robust speech recognition system under different noisy environment

This study evaluates performance of objective measures in terms of predicting quality of noisy input speech signal using voice activity detection (VAD). Implementation process includes a speech-to-text system using isolated word recognition with a vocabulary of 10 words (digits 0-9) and statistical modeling (Hidden Markov Model - HMM) for machine speech recognition. In training period, uttered digits were recorded using 8-bit pulse code modulation (PCM) with a sampling rate of 8 KHz and save as a wave format file using sound recorder software. HMM performs speech analysis using linear predictive coding (LPC) method of degree. For a given word in vocabulary, system builds an HMM model and trains model during training phase. Training steps from VAD to HMM model building are performed using PC-based Matlab programs. Current framework uses automatic speech recognition (ASR) with HMM based classification and noise language modeling to achieve effective noise knowledge estimation.
A generic fragmented object structured framework for distributed storage support

The authors propose a generic framework for storage support in a distributed environment. This comprises a set of storage abstractions and storage policies; data clusters, cluster containers, and container domains, supporting sharing, caching, and replication. These abstractions and these policies are structured as fragmented objects (FOs), such that each storage system designer can offer the appropriate tradeoffs to its targeted applications. The core set of main abstractions is discussed; their interfaces are presented; and the FO-structuring of the cluster abstraction is detailed. <<ETX>>
Prognostic value of the 2018 FIGO staging system for cervical cancer patients with surgical risk factors

Objective: To determine the predictive value of the 2018 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging system for cervical cancer patients with surgical risk factors. Methods: Data of 662 cervical cancer patients (stages IB and IIA) with surgical risk factors treated at Zhejiang Cancer Hospital between 2008 and 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. Univariate log-rank test and multivariate Cox regression models were adopted to evaluate the relationship between 2018 FIGO stage and survival. Results: On re-staging of patients, 17.3%, 44.5%, 25.4%, and 37.1% of the patients with FIGO 2009 stage IB1, IB2, IIA1, and IIA2, respectively, were upgraded to FIGO 2018 IIIC1P stage, and 2.1%, 3.0%, 3.1%, and 2.1% patients, respectively, were upgraded to IIIC2P stage. The 5-year overall survival (OS) rates of patients with FIGO 2018 stage IB1, IB2, IB3, IIA1, IIA2, IIIC1P, and IIIC2P were 95.3%, 95.1%, 90.4%, 92.4%, 86.4%, 81.9%, and 56.3%, respectively. The 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) rates were 94.0%, 91.0%, 88.5%, 91.4%, 86.4%, 79.5%, and 43.8%, respectively. The 5-year OS rates of patients with 1–2 positive pelvic lymph nodes (PLNs) and those with >2 positive PLNs were 86.0% and 73.7%, respectively, and the 5-year PFS rates were 84.2% and 70.2%, respectively. OS and PFS of patients with 1–2 positive PLNs in stage IIIC1P were similar to those of patients in stage IIA2 without lymph node metastasis, but significantly better than those of patients with >2 positive PLNs. Multivariate analysis showed FIGO 2018 stage to be an independent prognostic factor for OS and PFS. Conclusion: The 2018 FIGO staging system for cervical cancer appears to be useful for predicting prognosis of patients with risk factors after radical surgery. Survival of stage IIA1 patients is better than that of stage IB3 patients. Stage IIIC1 is not homogenous; survival in stage IIIC1P depends on the number of positive PLNs.
Sharing Tacit Knowledge: A Case Study in the Australian Film Industry

This paper explores tacit knowledge sharing. This case demonstrates the significance of knowledge sharing to organizational performance, by exploring the contribution of tacit knowledge sharing to the success of projects in the Australian Film Industry (AFI). The differences between knowledge sharing, collaboration and communication, and their interrelations are addressed. We also explore the concepts of knowledge, information, and data. In the interchanges reported here the knowledge shared is almost entirely tacit, and the “raw” data and information do not exist without the context that makes them knowledge. The paper includes the identification of many factors affecting knowledge sharing, not all of which have been identified by previous researchers. This research contributes to a better understanding of tacit knowledge and how that knowledge is shared. This in turn contributes to a better understanding of how knowledge management can be supported in a modern organization, where often the technology is used in ways not well understood by system managers and software developers. A better understanding can lead to better ICT design and support of knowledge sharing both within and across organizations.
Microwave telecommunications in Hungary: development results and modernization plans

The microwave telecommunication systems developed in Hungary in the last decades and applied in public networks are surveyed, and an overview of the long- and short-term network modernization plans is presented. The present state of the microwave telecommunication network is characterized by a well developed analog and an underdeveloped digital network. Consequently, there are modernization projects going on to overcome this problem and as a part of it a large number of high, medium, and small capacity digital microwave radio links will be installed in the near future. <<ETX>>
Signal delay in RC tree networks

In MOS integrated circuits, signals may propagate between stages with fanout. The exact calculation of signal delay through such networks is difficult. However, upper and lower bounds for delay that are computationally simple are presented in this paper. The results can be used 1) to bound the delay, given the signal threshold, or 2) to bound the signal voltage, given a delay time, or 3) certify that a circuit is "fast enough," given both the maximum delay and the voltage threshold.
Discrete-Event Modeling and Simulation: A Practitioner's Approach

Complex artificial dynamic systems require advanced modeling techniques that can accommodate their asynchronous, concurrent, and highly non-linear nature. Discrete Event systems Specification (DEVS) provides a formal framework for hierarchical construction of discrete-event models in a modular manner, allowing for model re-use and reduced development time.Discrete Event Modeling and Simulation presents a practical approach focused on the creation of discrete-event applications. The book introduces the CD++ tool, an open-source framework that enables the simulation of discrete-event models. After setting up the basic theory of DEVS and Cell-DEVS, the author focuses on how to use the CD++ tool to define a variety of models in biology, physics, chemistry, and artificial systems. They also demonstrate how to map different modeling techniques, such as Finite State Machines and VHDL, to DEVS. The in-depth coverage elaborates on the creation of simulation software for DEVS models and the 3D visualization environments associated with these tools.A much-needed practical approach to creating discrete-event applications, this book offers world-class instruction on the fields most useful modeling tools.
Neural network based segmentation of magnetic resonance images of the brain

The potential of artificial neural networks (ANNs) for the classification and segmentation of magnetic resonance (MR) images of the human brain is investigated. In this study, we present the application of a Learning Vector Quantization (LVQ) Artificial Neural Network (ANN) for the multispectral supervised classification of MR images. We have modified the LVQ for better and more accurate classification. We have compared the results using LVQ ANN versus back-propagation ANN. This comparison shows that, unlike back-propagation ANN, our method is insensitive to the gray-level variation of MR images between different slices. It shows that tissue segmentation using LVQ ANN also performs better and faster than that using back-propagation ANN.
Digital modulator architectures for satellite and space applications

The present paper aims to define viable strategies for implementing flexible and programmable fully digital modulators, able to cope with multiple symbol rates, signal bandwidths, and modulation schemes, using a single analog section (composed by filters and up-converters). This development is applicable both in the field of broadband multimedia communication payloads, as well as in telemetry tracking and command links and also in deep space communications, for which the topics that need to be addressed are essentially the same. However, when state-of-the-art performance is required, it might be needed to separate the developments on the basis of the specific application. An example of a GMSK modulator architecture is also given.
Identification of Copy Number Variation by Array-CGH in Portuguese Children and Adolescents Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract Background Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) affect many children with an estimated prevalence of 1%. Array-comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) offers significant sensitivity for the identification of submicroscopic chromosomal abnormalities and it is one of the most used techniques in daily practice. The main objective of this study was to describe the usefulness of array-CGH in the etiologic diagnosis of ASD. Methods Two-hundred fifty-three patients admitted to a neurogenetic outpatient clinic and diagnosed with ASD were selected for array-CGH (4 × 180K microarrays). Public databases were used for classification in accordance with the American College of Medical Genetics Standards and Guidelines. Results About 3.56% (9/253) of copy number variations (CNVs) were classified as pathogenic. When likely pathogenic CNVs were considered, the rate increased to 11.46% (29/253). Some CNVs apparently not correlated to the ASD were also found. Considering a phenotype–genotype correlation, the patients were divided in two groups. One group according to previous literature includes all the CNVs related to ASDs (23 CNVs present in 22 children) and another with those apparently not related to ASD (10 CNVs present in 7 children). In 18 patients, a next-generation sequencing (NGS) panel were performed. From these, one pathogenic and 16 uncertain significance variants were identified. Conclusion The results of our study are in accordance with the literature, highlighting the relevance of array-CGH in the genetic of diagnosis of ASD population, namely when associated with other features. Our study also reinforces the need for complementarity between array-CGH and NGS panels or whole exome sequencing in the etiological diagnosis of ASD.
Blood pressure lowering effects of a novel isometric exercise device following a 4-week isometric handgrip intervention

Background: Hypertension is the leading risk factor for global mortality. Isometric resistance exercise training reduces blood pressure (BP). However, the protocols used are often limited by cost/immobility and the use of rigid exercise modalities. In response, a novel more versatile, isometric exercise (IE) device, the IsoBall (IB) was created. Purpose: The aim of this study was to test the BP-lowering effectiveness of this prototype. Methods: Twenty-three healthy participants (29.10±2.19 years old, 173.95±3.83 cm, 75.43±5.06 kg, SBP 127.10±10.37 mmHg, DBP 70.40±6.77 mmHg) were randomly allocated to either a control group (CON) or 2 isometric handgrip (IHG) training groups that used the Zona plus (ZON) and IB devices. The intervention groups completed 3 sessions each week of 4, 2 min IHG at 30% maximal voluntary contraction, with a 1-min rest, for 4 weeks. Resting BP, heart rate (HR) and IHG strength were measured in all groups at baseline and postintervention. Results: Postintervention systolic BP (SBP) was significantly lower in both ZON (114.5±8.2 mmHg, p = 0.000) and IB (119.9±7.0 mmHg, p = 0.000) compared to control (131.0±12.4 mmHg). Postintervention diastolic BP (DBP) was reduced in both intervention groups (ZON 66.6±7.4 mmHg, p = 0.004; IB 65.7±10.0 mmHg, p = 0.012) compared to CON (71.1±8.8 mmHg). Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was reduced in both groups (ZON 82.6±6.8 mmHg, p = 0.000; IB 84.3±9.1 mmHg, p = 0.000) compared to control (91.0±9.7 mmHg). No significant changes were seen in HR or strength (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that both the ZON and IB devices elicit significant SBP, DBP and MAP reductions. Despite the ZON group having larger reductions in BP, no significant differences were found between the two devices. Thus, this study indicates the IB device to be an effective alternative to the ZON that can also be used to perform other IE modalities.
A dynamic channel assignment algorithm for asymmetric traffic in voice/data integrated TDMA/TDD mobile radio

Personal communications systems are increasingly required to accommodate not only voice traffic, but also various types of data traffic. Generally speaking, voice traffic is symmetric between the uplink and downlink, while data traffic can be highly asymmetric. It is therefore inefficient to accommodate data in a conventional TDMA/TDD system with a fixed TDD boundary. In this paper, focusing on continuous data traffic which requires multi-slots in a circuit based TDMA/TDD system, we propose an algorithm in which the TDD boundaries are moved adaptively to accommodate data traffic efficiently. Compared with the conventional fixed boundary algorithm, computer simulations confirm that the proposed algorithm has a superior performance in the excessive transmission delay of data while maintaining the performance of voice. Moreover, an almost similar performance improvement of the proposed algorithm is confirmed for two different average message sizes of data calls.
Gender difference and therapeutic effectiveness of platelets rich plasma intra-articular injections among elderly with knee osteoarthritis

1,2,6 Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Faculty of Medicine –Ain Shams University. Cairo, Egypt 3,5 Department of Physical Medicine, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine – Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt 4 Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine – Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt *Corresponding Author Maram Maher Monier Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Faculty of Medicine – Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt Abstract Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent etiology for arthritis. Knee OA clinical symptoms and signs have direct impact on social interactions, mental functioning, sleep quality and various aspects of patients’ lives. The applications of biologic managing agents such as PRP in musculoskeletal disorders are growing considerably. Aim: To investigate and compare gender differences in response to platelets rich plasma intra articular injections in cases having knee osteoarthritis. Methodology: The research clinical trial recruited 44 elderly participants aged sixty years and above with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis according to Kellgren-Lawrence Grading Scale system. The studied sample have been categorized into two equal matched age research groups: Research Group A:22 male patients 60 years old and above with knee osteoarthritis. Research Group B:22 female patients 60 years old and above with knee osteoarthritis. Results: Significant improvement in pain scores among all grades of knee OA, the best improvement achieved at 6 months follow up. Rate of improvement in pain Scores at 6 and 12 months follow up was almost equal between the 3 grades of OA with no statistically significant difference. Conclusions and Recommendations: Intra-articular injection of PRP in knee OA may be a valid alternative treatment for knee osteoarthritis. Intra-articular infiltration of autologous PRP under the conditions described in this study seems to be a safe, effective treatment for knee OA and does not require hospitalization or surgery.
Assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of Biosprint® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae MUCL 39885) for sows

Abstract Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the assessment of the application for renewal of authorisation of the product Biosprint® (Saccharomyces cerevisiae MUCL 39885) as a feed additive for sows. S. cerevisiae is considered by EFSA to have qualified presumption of safety (QPS) status. The applicant has provided data demonstrating that the additive currently in the market complies with the conditions of authorisation. The Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) Panel confirms that the use of Biosprint® under the current authorised conditions of use is safe for sows, the consumers and the environment. The additive is considered as a potential skin and eye irritant and skin/respiratory sensitiser. There is no need to assess the efficacy of Biosprint® in the context of the renewal of the authorisation.
On the Purpose of Low-level Vision

Abstract : The article advances the thesis that the purpose of low-level vision is to encode symbolically all of the useful information contained in an intensity array, using a vocabulary of very low-level symbols. Subsequent processes should have access only to this symbolic description. The reason is one of computational expediency. It allows the low-level processes to run almost autonomously; and it greatly simplifies the application of criteria to an image, whose representation in terms of conditions on the initial intensities, or on simple measurements made from them, is very cumbersome.
Observational Constraints on Dynamical Dark Energy with Pivoting Redshift

We investigate the generalized Chevallier–Polarski–Linder (CPL) parametrization, which contains the pivoting redshift z p as an extra free parameter, in order to examine whether the evolution of the dark energy equation of state can be better described by a different parametrization. We use various data combinations from cosmic microwave background (CMB), baryon acoustic oscillations (BAO), redshift space distortion (RSD), weak lensing (WL), joint light curve analysis (JLA), and cosmic chronometers (CC), and we include a Gaussian prior on the Hubble constant value, in order to extract the observational constraints on various quantities. For the case of free z p we find that for all data combinations it always remains unconstrained, and there is a degeneracy with the value of the dark energy equation of state w 0 p at z p . For the case where z p is fixed to specific values, and for the full data combination, we find that with increasing z p the mean value of w 0 p slowly moves into the phantom regime, however the cosmological constant is always allowed within 1 σ confidence-level. In fact, the significant effect is that with increasing z p , the correlations between w 0 p and w a (the free parameter of the dark energy equation of state quantifying its evolution with redshift), change from negative to positive, with the case z p = 0 . 35 corresponding to no correlation. The fact that the two parameters describing the dark energy equation of state are uncorrelated for z p = 0 . 35 justifies why a non-zero pivoting redshift needs to be taken into account.
Integrating Brazilian health information systems in order to support the building of data warehouses

IntroductionThis paper's aim is to develop a data warehouse from the integration of the files of three Brazilian health information systems concerned with the production of ambulatory and hospital procedures for cancer care, and cancer mortality. These systems do not have a unique patient identification, which makes their integration difficult even within a single system.MethodsData from the Brazilian Public Hospital Information System (SIH-SUS), the Oncology Module for the Outpatient Information System (APAC-ONCO) and the Mortality Information System (SIM) for the State of Rio de Janeiro, in the period from January 2000 to December 2004 were used. Each of the systems has the monthly data production compiled in dbase files (dbf). All the files pertaining to the same system were then read into a corresponding table in a MySQL Server 5.1. The SIH-SUS and APAC-ONCO tables were linked internally and with one another through record linkage methods. The APAC-ONCO table was linked to the SIM table. Afterwards a data warehouse was built using Pentaho and the MySQL database management system.ResultsThe sensitivities and specificities of the linkage processes were above 95% and close to 100% respectively. The data warehouse provided several analytical views that are accessed through the Pentaho Schema Workbench.ConclusionThis study presented a proposal for the integration of Brazilian Health Systems to support the building of data warehouses and provide information beyond those currently available with the individual systems.
Trajectory planning and control of an underactuated planar 2R manipulator

The problem of regulation of an underactuated planar 2R manipulator is solved by tracking appropriated off-line planned trajectories. A class of parametric trajectories is proposed to reach a desired configuration. An optimization algorithm is proposed to find the parameters. Besides, a feedback control is proposed to regulate the manipulator under error modeling and small deviations on the initial conditions. By using simulations, it is illustrated that if the coordinates of the underactuated system track the planned trajectories then the system reaches the desired configuration.