Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Mapping Between Transformed Reaction Time Costs and Models of Processing in Aging and Cognition

Older adults tend to have slower response times (RTs) than younger adults on cognitive tasks. This makes the examination of domain-specific deficits in aging difficult, as differences between conditions in raw RTs (RT costs) typically increase with slower average RTs. Here, we examine the mapping between 2 established approaches to dealing with this confound in the literature. The first is to use transformed RT costs, with the z-score and proportional transforms both being commonly used. The second is to use mathematical models of choice RT behavior, such as the drift-diffusion model (Ratcliff, 1978). We simulated data for younger and older adults from the drift-diffusion model under 4 scenarios: (a) a domain specific deficit, (b) general slowing, (c) strategic slowing, and (d) a slowing of nondecision processes. In each scenario we varied the size of the difference between younger and older adults in the model parameters, and examined corresponding effect sizes and Type I error rates in the raw and transformed RT costs. The z-score transformation provided better control of Type I error rates than the raw or proportional costs, though did not fully control for differences in the general slowing and strategic slowing scenarios. We recommend that RT analyses are ideally supplemented by analyses of error rates where possible, as these may help to identify the presence of confounds. To facilitate this, it would be beneficial to include conditions that elicit below ceiling accuracy in tasks.
Mesoscale satellite data assimilation: impact of cloud-affected infrared observations on a cloud-free initial model state

Abstract This work presents the results of assimilating cloud-affected radiances from geostationary, infrared window and water vapour channels into a mesoscale, cloud-resolving model using a four-dimensional variational assimilation system for the case of an altocumulus cloud over the Great Plains of the United States. In this case, the initial model state, based on reanalysis data, was virtually cloud-free. The impacts of cloudy-scene radiances on a cloud-free model state (and, more generally, accurate satellite observations on inaccurate model initial conditions) in a four-dimensional variational assimilation framework are discussed. Results indicate that, in a cloud-free model state, the assimilation of cloudy radiances modifies the initial conditions as if no cloud exists. This results in a cooling of the surface and lower troposphere upon assimilation of infrared window channels, and an increase in mid-to upper tropospheric humidity upon assimilation of water vapour channels in an attempt to minimize the differences between the modelled and observed radiances. Neither modification of the initial conditions leads to the formation of the observed cloud. The size of the domain and the background error covariance are found to have a significant impact on the results.
The multi-assumption architecture and testbed (MAAT v1.0): R code for generating ensembles with dynamic model structure and analysis of epistemic uncertainty from multiple sources

Abstract. Computer models are ubiquitous tools used to represent systems across many scientific and engineering domains. For any given system, many computer models exist, each built on different assumptions and demonstrating variability in the ways in which these systems can be represented. This variability is known as epistemic uncertainty, i.e. uncertainty in our knowledge of how these systems operate. Two primary sources of epistemic uncertainty are (1) uncertain parameter values and (2) uncertain mathematical representations of the processes that comprise the system. Many formal methods exist to analyse parameter-based epistemic uncertainty, while process-representation-based epistemic uncertainty is often analysed post hoc, incompletely, informally, or is ignored. In this model description paper we present the multi-assumption architecture and testbed (MAAT v1.0) designed to formally and completely analyse process-representation-based epistemic uncertainty. MAAT is a modular modelling code that can simply and efficiently vary model structure (process representation), allowing for the generation and running of large model ensembles that vary in process representation, parameters, parameter values, and environmental conditions during a single execution of the code. MAAT v1.0 approaches epistemic uncertainty through sensitivity analysis, assigning variability in model output to processes (process representation and parameters) or to individual parameters. In this model description paper we describe MAAT and, by using a simple groundwater model example, verify that the sensitivity analysis algorithms have been correctly implemented. The main system model currently coded in MAAT is a unified, leaf-scale enzyme kinetic model of C3 photosynthesis. In the Appendix we describe the photosynthesis model and the unification of multiple representations of photosynthetic processes. The numerical solution to leaf-scale photosynthesis is verified and examples of process variability in temperature response functions are provided. For rapid application to new systems, the MAAT algorithms for efficient variation of model structure and sensitivity analysis are agnostic of the specific system model employed. Therefore MAAT provides a tool for the development of novel or toy models in many domains, i.e. not only photosynthesis, facilitating rapid informal and formal comparison of alternative modelling approaches.
Study of optical and structural characteristics of ceria nanoparticles doped with negative and positive association lanthanide elements

This paper studies the effect of adding lanthanides with negative association energy, such as holmium and erbium, to ceria nanoparticles doped with positive association energy lanthanides, such as neodymium and samarium. That is what we called mixed doped ceria nanoparticles (MDC NPs). In MDC NPs of grain size range around 6 nm, it is proved qualitatively that the conversion rate from Ce4+ to Ce3+ is reduced, compared to ceria doped only with positive association energy lanthanides. There are many pieces of evidence which confirm the obtained conclusion. These indications are an increase in the allowed direct band gap which is calculated from the absorbance dispersion measurements, a decrease in the emitted fluorescence intensity, and an increase in the size of nanoparticles, which is measured using both techniques: transmission electron microscope (TEM) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). That gives a novel conclusion that there are some trivalent dopants, such as holmium and erbium, which can suppress Ce3+ ionization states in ceria and consequently act as scavengers for active O-vacancies in MDC. This promising concept can develop applications which depend on the defects in ceria such as biomedicine, electronic devices, and gas sensors.
Cancer Gene Therapy: The New Targeting Challenge

Cancer is characterized by genetic alterations due, for instance, to mutations in genomic DNA caused by chemicals (mutagens such as pollutants or nitrosamines, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), radiations (e.g., prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, which can lead to melanoma or other skin malignancies), and viral infections (e.g., papilloma virus; human T-cell leukemia viruses 1, 2, 3, and 4; and herpes simplex virus). Mutations in genes involved in cell proliferation, tumor suppressor genes, or proto-oncogenes may lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation into a tumor. Currently, the most widely used treatments for cancer are combinations of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, the effectiveness of these treatments is variable. Consequently, means of potentiating conventional treatments, as well as new strategies, need to be developed. Gene therapy is generally perceived as a treatment for rare genetic diseases, in which replacing the deficient gene by its normal counterpart has proved successful, most notably in severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) (Fischer et al., 2010), adrenoleukodystrophy (Cartier et al., 2009), and s-thalassemia (Cavazzana-Calvo et al., 2010). However, cancer is the main focus of basic and clinical research on gene therapy (http:// www.wiley.com//legacy/wileychi/genmed/clinical/). Variable levels of success have been achieved using a broad range of genes encoding tumor suppressor proteins such as p53, antiangiogenic proteins such as anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), inflammatory cytokines, and other proteins (Lane et al., 2010), (Candolfi et al., 2010), (Adachi et al., 2010). One of the main hurdles in gene therapy is selective delivery of recombinant vectors to the target tissue. In cancer gene therapy, administration of the vector within the tumor may be of interest, but some tumors are not readily accessible and vector dissemination to healthy cells cannot be ruled out. Today, accurate tumor targeting is a major goal of cancer gene therapy. In this chapter, we will focus on the methods developed to improve targeting in cancer gene therapy, most notably gene-directed enzyme prodrug therapy (GDEPT), which is a major focus of research at our laboratory.
Protection Motivation Theory (PMT), Risk of Drowning, and Water Safety Perceptions of Adult Caregivers/Parents

While the circumstances surrounding drowning incidents in high income countries are well known, little is known about how members of the public perceive the risk of drowning and their role in drowning prevention.The purpose of the study was to analyze caregiver/parent perceptions of the risk of drowning in terms of risk (threat) appraisal processes and coping appraisal processes.This study utilized Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) to analyse parent’s perception of the risk of drowning as part of an evaluation of a water safety program. Participants (N= 174) completed a pre-intervention survey that sought information on their water competency, open water experience, previous instruction, and perceptions of drowning risk.In terms of risk appraisal processes, more females, Asian peoples, and those with lower self-reported swimming and rescue competency perceived greater severity of drowning risk and greater vulnerability to that risk when swimming in open water. In terms of coping appraisal processes, males, non-Asian peoples and those with self-reported good swimming and rescue competencies were more likely to report confidence in the self-efficacy of their preventive actions.Considerable variations in risk (threat) appraisal and coping appraisal processes in respect of the risk of drowning were evident. The implications of the findings on water safety education are discussed. Ways of promoting water safety and drowning prevention are examined and recommendations for future research studies to address limitations of the study are made.
Eventos adversos e prática segura com medicação em pediatria: revisão integrativa

DOI: http://dx.doi. org/10.31011/1519-339X.2018a18n84. 12 Objetiva-se conhecer as evidencias cientificas presentes nas publicacoes relacionadas aos eventos adversos emedidas de pratica segura com medicacao em pediatria. Estudo de revisao integrativa da literatura, realizado nasbases de dados da Biblioteca Virtual de Saude (BVS): PubMed, Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Cienciasda Saude (LILACS) e Sistema de Analise e Recuperacao da Literatura Medica (MEDLINE). Foram selecionados 12artigos apos utilizacao dos criterios de inclusao e exclusao. Apos analise dos artigos selecionados foram criadastres categorias: Fatores que influenciam na ocorrencia de eventos adversos com medicacoes em pediatria;Caracteristicas dos eventos adversos com medicacoes em pediatria; e Estrategias para reducao de eventos adversoscom medicacoes em pediatria, destacando-se os fatores organizacionais. Conclui-se a necessidade de uma mudancana forma de gerenciar os servicos de saude com enfase no aprendizado e aprimoramento organizacional, assimcomo engajamento dos profissionais, dos familiares e cuidadores dos pacientes pediatricos na prevencao de eventosadversos, atraves de um sistema institucional seguro, evitando os processos de responsabilizacao individual, e destaforma, promover a seguranca na assistencia pediatrica.Palavras-chave: Enfermagem Pediatrica; Erros de Medicacao; Seguranca do Paciente. ABSTRACTThe aim is to know the scientific evidences present in the publications related to adverse events and measures ofsafe practice with medication in pediatrics. An integrative literature review carried out in Virtual Health Library(VHL): PubMed, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) and Medical Literature Analysisand Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE) databases. Twelve articles were selected after using the inclusion andexclusion criteria. After analyzing the selected articles, three categories were created: factors that influence theoccurrence of adverse events with medications in pediatrics, characteristics of adverse events with medicationsin pediatrics and strategies to reduce adverse events with medications in pediatrics, especially organizationalfactors. It concludes that there is a need for a change in the way health services are managed with an emphasison learning and organizational improvement, as well as the engagement of professionals, family members andcaregivers of pediatric patients in the prevention of adverse events through a safe institutional system, avoidingindividual accountability processes and thus promoting safety in pediatric care.Keywords: Pediatric Nursing; Medication Errors; Patient Safety
Revision of the genera Microplitis and Snellenius (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Microgastrinae) from Area de Conservacion Guanacaste, Costa Rica, with a key to all species previously described from Mesoamerica

The genera Microplitis and Snellenius (Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Microgastrinae) from Area de Conservacion Guanacaste (ACG), Costa Rica, are revised. A total of 28 new species are described: 23 of Snellenius (the first record for Mesoamerica) and five of Microplitis. A key is provided to all new species and five species of Microplitis previously described from Mesoamerica. In ACG, all Microplitis were reared exclusively from Sphingidae, while all Snellenius were reared from Noctuoidea (Noctuidae and Erebidae). All of the wasp species with known host records are unambiguously specialists, parasitizing one or a few related hosts. Biological information (wasp cocoon and caterpillar hosts) in the Neotropical region seems to differ from similar data reported in previous works for the Oriental region -but more studies on the world fauna are needed. Although the distinction between these two genera has been controversial, we consider that the available evidence, although not conclusive, suggests that these two genera are best kept as separate (based on the presence of at least a partial epicnemial carina in Snellenius, which is absent in Microplitis). The following 28 species, all authored by Fernández-Triana & Whitfield, are described as species nova: Microplitis adrianguadamuzi, M. alexanderrojasi, M. francopupulini, M. hebertbakeri, M. jorgehernandezi, Snellenius billburgeri, S. bobdressleri, S. donstonei, S. felipechavarriai, S. gerardoherrerai, S. irenebakerae, S. isidrochaconi, S. johnkressi, S. jorgecampabadali, S. jorgegomezlauritoi, S. josesarukhani, S. kerrydresslerae, S. lucindamcdadeae, S. luisdiegogomezi, S. mariakuzminae, S. mariamartachavarriae, S. phildevriesi, S. quiricojimenezi, S. robertoespinozai, S. sandyknappae, S. velvaruddae, S. vickifunkae, S. warrenwagneri.
FSU Immigrants in Canada: A Case of Positive Triple Selection?

This paper investigates the economic performance of immigrants from the Former Soviet Union (FSU) countries in Canada. The contribution of this paper lies in its use of a natural experiment to detect possible differential labour market performances of Soviet immigrants prior to and after the collapse of the Soviet Union. In short, the collapse of the former Soviet Union allows an exogenous supply change in the number and type of FSU immigrants potentially destined to enter Canada. For this purpose, Census microlevel data from the 1986, 1991, 1996 and 2001 Canadian Census are utilized to estimate earnings and employment outcomes for pre- and post-FSU immigrants.
Hardware-Enabled Artificial Intelligence

The current resurgence of artificial intelligence is due to advances in deep learning. Systems based on deep learning now exceed human capability in speech recognition [1], object classification [4], and playing games like Go [9]. Deep learning is enabled by powerful, efficient computing hardware [5]. The algorithms used have been around since the 1980s [7], but it has only been in the last few years - when powerful GPUs became available to train networks - that the technology has become practical. This paper discusses the circuit challenges in building deep-learning hardware both for inference and for training.
Towards Complete Polyphonic Music Transcription: Integrating Multi-Pitch Detection and Rhythm Quantization

Most work on automatic transcription produces “piano roll” data with no musical interpretation of the rhythm or pitches. We present a polyphonic transcription method that converts a music audio signal into a human-readable musical score, by integrating multi-pitch detection and rhythm quantization methods. This integration is made difficult by the fact that the multi-pitch detection produces erroneous notes such as extra notes and introduces timing errors that are added to temporal deviations due to musical expression. Thus, we propose a rhythm quantization method that can remove extra notes by extending the metrical hidden Markov model and optimize the model parameters. We also improve the note-tracking process of multi-pitch detection by refining the treatment of repeated notes and adjustment of onset times. Finally, we propose evaluation measures for transcribed scores. Systematic evaluations on commonly used classical piano data show that these treatments improve the performance of transcription, which can be used as benchmarks for further studies.
Comparative study between the effect of Parkia Biglobosa (JACQ) benth and conventional antibiotics against multiple antibiotic resistant uropathogenic bacteria (MARUB)

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are common infections. It is estimated that 150 million urinary tract infections occur yearly worldwide, resulting in more than six billion dollar in direct healthcare cost.1 Complicated UTIs include those in patients with stones or obstructive Uropathies and in patients with catheter-related infections. Urinary tract infections often contribute to a frequent cause of morbidity in out-patients as well as hospitalized patients.2 These infections are often associated with nosocomial, antibiotic-resistant3 Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria.4 The etiological agents of UTIs are predictable, with Escherichia coli being the commonest pathogen.5 Clinical experience has indicated the presence of numerous cases of antibiotic resistance to common antibiotics by Uropathogens in both developed and developing countries.6 Resistant to newer and more potent antimicrobials are no exceptions but this has decreased the effectiveness of some standard regimes, and thus, the management of urinary tract infections becoming complicated with limited therapeutic options. The emergence of multidrug resistance (MDR) in Uropathogens has further narrowed down the therapeutic options and the need for alternative treatment option. Multidrug resistance (MDR) can be defined as resistance to three or more classes of antibiotics. The increasing incidence of antibacterial resistance and multidrug resistance (MDR) in Uropathogens has highlighted the need to find more alternative antibacterial agents from other sources such as natural products.7
Randomized Algorithms for Scheduling Multi-Resource Jobs in the Cloud

We consider the problem of scheduling jobs with multiple-resource requirements (CPU, memory, and disk) in a distributed server platform, motivated by data-parallel and cloud computing applications. Jobs arrive dynamically over time and require certain amount of multiple resources for the duration of their service. When a job arrives, it is queued and later served by one of the servers that has sufficient remaining resources to serve it. The scheduling of jobs is subject to two constraints: 1) packing constraints: multiple jobs can be served simultaneously by a single server if their cumulative resource requirement does not exceed the capacity of the server, and 2) non-preemption: to avoid costly preemptions, once a job is scheduled in a server, its service cannot be interrupted or migrated to another server. Prior scheduling algorithms rely on either bin packing heuristics which have low complexity but can have a poor throughput, or MaxWeight solutions that can achieve maximum throughput but repeatedly require to solve or approximate instances of a hard combinatorial problem (Knapsack) over time. In this paper, we propose a randomized scheduling algorithm for placing jobs in servers that can achieve maximum throughput with low complexity. The algorithm is naturally distributed and each queue and each server needs to perform only a constant number of operations per time unit. Extensive simulation results, using both synthetic and real traffic traces, are presented to evaluate the throughput and delay performance compared to prior algorithms.
A Codominant Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) Marker Useful for Indirect Selection of Bean Golden Mosaic Virus Resistance in Common Bean

Bean golden mosaic virus (BGMV) is a devastating disease of common bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in tropical America. The disease is effectively controlled by combinations of genetic resistances. The most widely deployed source of resistance to BGMV is a recessive gene ( bgm-1) derived from the dry bean landrace cultivar Garrapato (Mexico) that conditions a nonmosaic partial resistance response to the pathogen. To expedite introgression of partial resistance into snap bean for southern Florida and other susceptible dry bean market classes for the Caribbean and Central American regions, a RAPD marker tightly linked to bgm-1 has been identified. Two contrasting DNA bulks, one consisting of five BGMV-resistant and the other five susceptible F 6 recombinant inbred lines, were used to screen for polymorphic fragments amplified by 300 decamer primers in the polymerase chain reaction. RAPDs generated between the bulks were analyzed across F 2 populations segregating for the marker and the gene. One codominant RAPD marker (R2 570/530 ) tightly linked to the recessive resistance gene bgm-1 was found. The 530-base pair (bp) fragment was linked in repulsion with bgm- 1 and the other 570-bp fragment was linked in coupling. No recombinants between R2 570/530 and bgm-1 were observed among 91 F 2 progeny from one dry bean population, and there were two recombinants (4.2 cM) observed among 48 F 2 progeny combined across four snap bean populations. Assays of R2 570/530 across susceptible germplasm and lines likely to have the 'Garrapato'-derived partial resistance to BGMV have revealed that the codominant marker is gene-pool nonspecific and maintains its original linkage orientation with the recessive bgm-1 gene through numerous meioses. The codominant marker is useful for rapidly introgressing partial resistance to BGMV into susceptible germplasm.
Design of an expert system for spatial planning

Spatial data processing systems are now making increasing use of optimization technigues to help decision-makers locate facilities. Because of several shortcomings of these techniques, we develop an expert system to augment current decision-making processes. The developed system consists of a spatial database, with an accompanying rule base derived from empirical knowledge about facility location. Prolog is used as the inference engine.